I've lived near Greenville, South Carolina, for over a decade. Here are 6 of the best things to do in and around the city.

I love visiting the waterfall in the heart of downtown — and hiking to another nearby.

I don't need to go far to see a beautiful waterfall in Greenville. Falls Park on the Reedy is a gorgeous green space in the middle of downtown, and the Reedy River weaves through it.

For the best views, I like to either walk across the Liberty Bridge (a curved suspension bridge overlooking the falls) or sit on a swing in the park while enjoying some ice cream from Jeni's.

For an adventure that's a bit further from the city, I drive about 45 minutes out to Jones Gap State Park to hike the Rainbow Falls trail. It leads to a stunning waterfall that plunges about 100 feet over a granite cliff.

Playing mini-golf while watching planes fly is a fun afternoon activity.

Located next to the city's local airport are two of my family's favorites: Runway Park and Takeoff Mini Golf.

Runway Park has an aviation-themed playground, complete with a short, paved runway trail that kids love to ride their bikes and scooters around. There are also two picnic areas available to rent for events.

Meanwhile, Takeoff Mini Golf is a 19-hole course that's aviation-themed, too. Fun fact: If you get a hole-in-one on the last shot, a beacon will light up.

What's great about both places is that you can actually see the airplanes taking off and landing while you're there.

The city hosts a variety of wonderful street festivals.

Greenville is home to a number of festivals, and some of my favorites are Artisphere, held annually on Mother's Day weekend, and Fall for Greenville, held each year in October.

Artisphere highlights the work of artists around the country, lining Main Street with everything from handmade ceramics and paintings to sculptures and photography.

One of my favorite art pieces I've ever purchased — a stunning shot of the synchronous fireflies in the Great Smoky Mountains — was from a photographer at Artisphere. Plus, there are live performances and great food.

Meanwhile, Fall for Greenville features live entertainment and food from local restaurants. Years ago at the festival, I was introduced to the restaurant Soby's, and now I always recommend it to visitors.

There are also some dinosaurs lurking — yes, really.

The Roper Mountain Science Center is home to the Dinosaur Adventure Trail, which has a variety of life-size dinosaur models.

It's hilarious to sit near the T. rex and watch as unsuspecting guests are shocked when it moves as they walk by.

The trail is open most of the summer and on Thursdays and Fridays throughout the school year, with tickets required.

One of my favorite things about Greenville is its food scene.

Greenville is a sleeper foodie destination that's about to land on the map when the next season of "Top Chef" drops, featuring episodes filmed in the city.

To experience Greenville's food scene in person, I recommend taking the "At the Chef's Table" culinary tour with Greenville History & Culinary Tours.

I did this a year after moving to the area, and it helped me learn about the city's interesting history and where to find great food.

The tour includes visits to local restaurants — including one of my favorites, The Lazy Goat (the whole branzino and any of the desserts are incredible) — with explanations of the dishes from the chefs.

Beyond the tour, I also love the burgers and garlic Parmesan fries at Windy City Burgers on E Coffee Street.

Watching a sunrise at Pretty Place is an unforgettable experience.

Less than an hour's drive from downtown Greenville is the Fred W. Symmes Chapel (more commonly known as Pretty Place), home of the most stunning sunrise I've ever seen.

The chapel overlooks the Blue Ridge Mountains, and watching the sun streak through the clouds is an amazing experience.

Be sure to check the online schedule for operating hours, since it's also a popular venue for weddings.