News Summary

Greenville, South Carolina, has earned a top ranking as the 7th best city in the U.S. according to Travel + Leisure’s 2025 list, becoming the highest-rated city from the Carolinas. The city’s vibrant culinary scene and scenic Reedy River contribute to its recognition. Additionally, Hotel Hartness was named the 10th best resort in the continental U.S. Meanwhile, Asheville ranked 9th, showcasing the Southeast’s appeal as a travel destination. The rankings reflect reader preferences for walkable areas rich in history and culture.

Greenville Ranked 7th on Travel + Leisure’s 2025 Best U.S. Cities List, Amid North Carolina’s Asheville at 9th

Greenville, South Carolina has been recognized as the 7th best city in the world by Travel and Leisure in its 2025 Best U.S. Cities list, marking it as the top-ranked city from the Carolinas. This high ranking honors the city for its scenic Reedy River, a hallmark of the downtown area, and its vibrant array of locally owned restaurants that contribute to its culinary richness.

Additionally, within the context of the rankings, Hotel Hartness in Greenville achieved the distinction of being the 10th best resort in the continental United States, acclaimed for its southern hospitality and modern design. These accolades celebrate Greenville’s unique offerings and its growing reputation as a travel destination.

Asheville Follows Close Behind

Asheville, North Carolina, another city in the region, secured the 9th spot on the same list. Travel and Leisure noted Asheville’s extensive hiking trails, flourishing craft beer scene, and vibrant art galleries. The city’s recovery from the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene was also highlighted, showcasing its resilience and commitment to tourism growth.

Survey Background and Methodology

This year’s awards were determined through a survey that received nearly 180,000 responses from readers, resulting in over 657,000 votes across approximately 8,700 properties. Key criteria considered for ranking cities included pedestrian-friendly infrastructure, the strength of arts and culture, food quality, and the historical significance reflected in architectural identity.

Southeast Cities Shine in Rankings

The 2025 awards demonstrated a robust representation from cities in the Southeast, with a total of seven cities making the rankings. Notably, Santa Fe, New Mexico, claimed the top position for the first time, followed by New Orleans and Charleston, South Carolina. Despite Charleston’s drop to 3rd place after 12 consecutive years at the top, it remains a popular destination, enjoying a rich heritage and hospitality that contribute significantly to its tourism economy. In the past year, Charleston saw nearly 8 million visitors, generating an economic impact of approximately $14 billion and supporting around 55,000 jobs.

Appeal of Greenville and Asheville

Greenville has been characterized as one of the South’s “best-kept secrets,” boasting a small-town charm complemented by big-city amenities. The Reedy River running through the downtown area provides a peaceful ambiance along with various outdoor activities for visitors. Survey respondents expressed a clear preference for cities that feature walkable downtown areas and distinctive regional cuisine, aspects that Greenville excels in.

Appreciation for Historical and Cultural Richness

The overall outcomes of the annual “World’s Best Awards” survey highlight a deep appreciation for cities steeped in history. Noteworthy aspects rewarded by voters included opportunities for diverse travel experiences catering to different demographics, including couples, families, and groups of friends. Both Greenville and Asheville have emerged as notable mentions, reflecting not just their tourism potential but also their recovery and growth following challenging periods.

In summary, Greenville’s ascension to the 7th position marks a significant achievement for the city and places it on the global map as a prime travel destination. As cities like Asheville and Charleston continue to uphold their standing within national rankings, the Southeast region as a whole remains a vibrant area for tourism, anchored by its rich cultural offerings and resilient communities.

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Additional Resources

• Fox Carolina
• Travel + Leisure
• Southern Living
• Greenville Online
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Greenville
• Google Search: Greenville South Carolina

Author: STAFF HERE GREENVILLE

The HERE Greenville Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Greenville community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Greenville Our team includes lifelong Greenville residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent sales in the Heritage Historic District 17 , Greenville’s textile and railroad heritage 2 , and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Greenville Technical College programs) 27 . Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Greenville Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.