Going UP: Greenville's Rooftop Bars

Don’t let its name fool you—Greenville’s Juniper is no berry-bearing, knee-high shrub. Ours is spread across 16,000 square feet above iconic Main Street, offering 360-degree views of downtown below and the Blue Ridge Mountains in the distance—making it a prime attraction for those seeking a relaxed outdoor activity with a view. The cocktail menu features a variety of sections that’ll help you decide what to get based on what you’re looking for. You’ll find zhuzhed-up classics, like the Old Fashioned MKT, and a selection of cocktails with less than 8% alcohol by volume, putting Juniper at the cutting edge of the sober-curious movement. If you prefer something stiffer, there are plenty of inventive, eclectic offerings, like the Risk it for Hibiscus, made with tequila, lemon, blood orange olive oil, aquafaba, and real hibiscuses… hibisci? Whatever. Anyway, if you still have doubts, let us ask you this: When was the last time you had a cocktail with charcoal-activated malfy limone (a premium Italian gin)? We’ll wait… that’s what we thought. Juniper encourages smart casual dress, so leave the flip flops in your hotel room, put the garden snakes in some sleeves for once, and “Let the Fun Be Gin” at Juniper.
Reservations Highly Recommended. 

A rooftop bar atop the Embassy Suites by Hilton Greenville Downtown RiverPlace shows off sumptuous views, this one with a panorama of the Reedy River and the Blue Ridge Mountains. The casual al fresco establishment hails “expertly prepared creative cocktails,” along with wines from around the world and craft beers from local breweries. The cocktail menu also polishes up some classics with a new twist or two, but UP on the Roof also has plenty of its own concoctions. A perfect setting for brunch, grab the gals for $25 mega mimosas and a sun-soaked Sunday Funday.

If SIP Whiskey & Wine Bar had a profile on Tinder, it would be an automatic left-swipe for most. A real gem hidden in ONE City Plaza and overlooking the heart of Main Street, this swanky downtown fave proudly flaunts its reputation for splendid, handcrafted cocktails and a true foodie menu (build-your-own charcuterie board, anyone?). Stop by during the week for Whiskey Flight Wednesday, or pencil in a visit any day of the week for a selection—yes, a full selection—of different Old Fashioned (known here as Old Fashion’s), Mules, and Sangria. Maybe you want to get a little nostalgic while still feeling like an adult. SIP is happy to oblige with several drink pouches—don’t worry, they’ll stab the straw through for you. A particularly gorgeous time to visit is during the evening Golden Hour as the sun sets and the lights of ONE City Plaza take over to create an almost magical setting.

With a prime location in the heart of Simpsonville, Sweet Sippin’ is a rooftop stop you’ll be excited to make. Overlooking West Curtis Street and its quaint brick business buildings, Sweet Sippin’s rooftop bar is the first ever in Simpsonville, making it a unique venue for an evening on the town or special events. Sip some wine worth savoring and drink in some entertainment because Sweet Sippin’ offers plenty of it. No matter the day of the week, you’ll find something to taste, see, and hear. This wine bar and local craft beer aerie hosts live music, comedy, wine tastings, and the Saturday Boozy Brunch, so be sure to add this stopover to your list!

An old friend with a new look, Eden Rooftop Lounge is an Ink N Ivy concept that brings a bit of sexy to downtown Greenville. Before the redesign, Ink N Ivy management wondered if they were missing an opportunity by keeping the rooftop an extension of the restaurant. With a little creativity and a clear focus on turning the space into an exciting nightlife destination, Eden is the plain high-school classmate who graduated and showed up to the reunion hot. The complete cocktail menu, completely different food menu from Ink N Ivy, and stylish, sleek décor are inspired by the energetic vibe Ink N Ivy has injected into the space. It may not be the highest rooftop bar, but a night in Eden will elevate any visit to downtown Greenville.