Fountain Inn Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Fountain Inn, South Carolina with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best attractions, food and drink, accommodations, local culture, and transportation options in Fountain Inn.


Introduction to Fountain Inn

Located in Upcountry South Carolina, Fountain Inn is a small town with a rich history and plenty of charm. Originally founded as a railroad town in the late 1800s, Fountain Inn boasts several beautifully preserved historic landmarks, including the Old Fountain Inn Depot and the Fountain Inn Museum. This quaint town is an ideal destination for those seeking a quiet getaway in a picturesque setting.

List of Places to Visit in Fountain Inn

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Fountain Inn Museum: Learn about the town’s history at this small but informative museum, housed in a beautifully restored bank building.
  • Old Fountain Inn Depot: Once a hub for train travel, this historic depot now serves as a community center and event space.
  • Woodside Cotton Mill Village and Company Store: Take a self-guided tour of this historic mill village and learn about the lives of the workers who called it home.

Natural Attractions of Fountain Inn: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Lake Conestee Nature Preserve: This 400-acre park offers hiking and biking trails, birdwatching, and other outdoor activities.
  • Heritage Park Amphitheater: Catch a concert or other live performance at this lovely outdoor venue.
  • Younts Center for Performing Arts: Enjoy a play, musical, or dance performance at this beautiful theater.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Fountain Inn

  • Swamp Rabbit Trail: This 22-mile paved trail connects Greenville and Travelers Rest and offers scenic views of the surrounding countryside.
  • Lake Conestee Nature Preserve Trails: Explore over 12 miles of trails through wetlands, forests, and meadows.

Best Things to Do in Fountain Inn: Activities and Tours

  • Southern Bleachery Tour: Take a guided tour of this historic cotton mill and learn about its important role in the town’s history.
  • Fountain Inn Farmers Market: Shop for fresh local produce, crafts, and other goods at this weekly market.
  • Carmel Farms Tour: Learn about sustainable agriculture and meet the animals at this beautiful local farm.

Week-Long Itinerary for Fountain Inn

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit the Fountain Inn Museum and explore the historic downtown area
Day 2 Go hiking or biking on the Swamp Rabbit Trail
Day 3 Tour the Southern Bleachery and have lunch at one of the local restaurants
Day 4 Visit the Woodside Cotton Mill Village and Company Store
Day 5 Take a guided tour of Carmel Farms and enjoy a farm-to-table meal
Day 6 Enjoy a live performance at the Younts Center for Performing Arts
Day 7 Relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the Lake Conestee Nature Preserve

Food and Drink Scene of Fountain Inn

Must-Try Dishes

  • Lowcountry Boil: A seafood dish featuring a mix of shrimp, potatoes, corn, and sausage, boiled and seasoned to perfection.
  • Pimento Cheese: A Southern classic made with sharp cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, and pimentos.

Local Beverages

  • Sweet Tea: A refreshing and sweet iced tea that is a staple of Southern cuisine.
  • Craft Beer: Sample the local brews at one of Fountain Inn’s breweries, such as the Carolina Bauernhaus Ales or The Silo at RJ Rockers Brewery.

Where to Stay in Fountain Inn: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Greenville Simpsonville: This comfortable hotel is conveniently located near downtown Fountain Inn and offers free breakfast and Wi-Fi.
  • Red Roof Inn Greenville: A budget-friendly option with clean and comfortable rooms and easy access to nearby attractions.

What to Buy in Fountain Inn: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Mill Village Market: Shop for locally made crafts, jewelry, and other unique gifts at this charming shop in the Woodside Cotton Mill Village.
  • Fountain Inn Farmers Market: Stock up on fresh local produce, baked goods, and other tasty treats to take home.

Local Culture and Customs of Fountain Inn

Fountain Inn is known for its friendly Southern hospitality and strong sense of community. Visitors should take the time to appreciate the town’s rich history and support local businesses and events.

Best Time to Visit Fountain Inn

The best times to visit Fountain Inn are in the spring and fall, when the weather is mild and there are plenty of outdoor activities and events to enjoy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Fountain Inn

Do:

  • Do visit the local farmers market for fresh local produce and other goodies.
  • Do take the time to explore the town’s historic landmarks and museums.
  • Do try the local cuisine and craft beer.

Don’t:

  • Don’t forget to bring comfortable shoes for hiking and biking.
  • Don’t ignore the local customs and traditions.
  • Don’t be afraid to strike up a conversation with the friendly locals.

Safety and Health

Safety in Fountain Inn

Fountain Inn is a safe town with low crime rates. However, visitors should still take precautions such as locking their cars and keeping valuables out of sight.

Health in Fountain Inn

Visitors should take care to stay hydrated and protect themselves from the sun when spending time outdoors. In case of a medical emergency, the closest hospital is the Greenville Health System.

Getting to Fountain Inn: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Fountain Inn

  • Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport (GSP): Located approximately 13 miles from Fountain Inn, this airport offers domestic and international flights.

Bus Stations Near Fountain Inn

  • Greyhound Bus Lines: The nearest Greyhound station is located in Greenville, approximately 15 miles from Fountain Inn.

Other Options

  • Rental Car: Visitors can rent a car from one of several rental companies at the airport.
  • Taxi Service: Several taxi companies operate in Fountain Inn and surrounding areas.

How to Get Around in Fountain Inn

The best way to get around Fountain Inn is by car or bike. Visitors can also walk to many of the town’s attractions, especially in the historic downtown area.

Where to Go Next from Fountain Inn: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Greenville: Just a short drive from Fountain Inn, Greenville offers a vibrant downtown area with shopping, dining, and cultural attractions.
  • Columbia: South Carolina’s capital city is approximately two hours from Fountain Inn and offers historic landmarks, museums, and other attractions.
  • Asheville: Located in the nearby Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville is known for its art scene, craft breweries, and natural beauty.

Conclusion

Fountain Inn may be small, but it is brimming with Southern charm and history. From its historic landmarks to its natural beauty and vibrant cultural scene, this town is a must-visit destination for those seeking a quiet and relaxing getaway.