July 18, 2025

Greenville Rises to No. 7 in Travel + Leisure Rankings

News Summary

Greenville has made its debut at No. 7 on Travel + Leisure’s list of top U.S. travel destinations for 2023, marking a significant achievement for the city. Meanwhile, Charleston, which held the No. 1 position for twelve consecutive years, has fallen to No. 3 this year, while Santa Fe and New Orleans took the top two spots. The rankings reflect readers’ evaluations of cities based on various factors, highlighting Greenville’s appeal through its local dining and outdoor scenery.

Greenville has made a significant splash in the travel world by debuting at No. 7 in Travel + Leisure’s annual ranking of the top U.S. travel destinations for 2023. This is a noteworthy achievement as it marks the city’s first appearance on the list, showcasing its emerging reputation as a must-visit location.

In a surprising turn of events, Charleston, which has dominated the rankings for the past twelve years by consistently holding the No. 1 position, has dropped to No. 3. This year, Santa Fe in New Mexico claimed the top spot, while New Orleans secured second place.

The rankings are the result of a thorough survey conducted by Travel + Leisure, which collects insights from readers about their travel experiences. Participants evaluated several factors, including sights, landmarks, culture, food, friendliness, shopping, and value. Each city was assessed on a scale ranging from excellent to poor across these criteria.

Greenville, often referred to as one of the South’s “best-kept secrets,” shone particularly bright in the survey. Respondents highlighted the city’s abundance of locally-owned restaurants and its outdoor appeal, particularly the scenic Reedy River and the picturesque waterfall located in downtown Greenville.

Charleston’s fall from grace doesn’t diminish its long-standing reputation. Known for its deep-rooted history, exquisite food offerings, and renowned Southern hospitality, Charleston remains a cherished destination. However, the shift in rankings underscores a growing recognition of other U.S. cities, particularly for their unique offerings.

The annual survey conducted by Travel + Leisure aims to identify the finest travel destinations not only in the U.S. but globally. Its methodology provides a comprehensive view of travelers’ preferences and experiences, reflecting current trends in the tourism industry.

This year’s rankings see a diverse array of cities being recognized for their appeal, illustrating a shift in travelers’ interests and the experiences being sought by modern tourists. The emergence of Greenville as a travel destination signifies the evolving landscape of U.S. tourism, where new cities are capturing attention and accolades.

The complete list of the top travel destinations can be found on the Travel + Leisure website, giving travelers insight into potential new experiences and adventures across the country.