Greenville, South Carolina

Kilgore-Lewis House

Landmark
Cultural Venue
Event Venue
4.7(48)

Known For

  • Holiday-decorated historic interiors
  • Guided house tours
  • Landscaped arboretum gardens
  • Waddy Thompson natural spring

Insider Tips

Best Time

Visit during seasonal events or when the house is decorated for holidays for extra charm.

Ideal For

History enthusiastsGarden loversPhotography outingsSmall private events

Pro Tip

Pause by the artesian spring behind the house—once a vital water source for the Cherokee—for a tranquil moment off the main path.

Editorial Review

Step through the front gate of the Kilgore-Lewis House and you’re instantly transported—shaded by mature crepe myrtles, the mansion’s broad piazza and intricate columns whisper stories from antebellum Greenville. This Classical Revival gem, built around 1838, anchors its tree-dappled grounds with quiet dignity. Inside, period furnishings and original details summon a bygone era, while outside, volunteers from local garden clubs nurture rambling gardens that bloom with native woodland plants and a historic spring once used by the Cherokee. Locals know this spot as a serene pause in the city—an oasis for history buffs, plant lovers, and anyone craving an unhurried stroll beneath old oaks. Events and holiday decorations transform the house into a vibrant community gathering place, yet at heart, it remains a living testament to Greenville’s layered past. Here, newcomers and longtime residents mingle on garden benches or linger for docent-led tours, drawn together by shared curiosity and civic pride.

Price Level

$

Contact

+1 864-232-3020

Reservations Available

Hours

  • Sunday: Closed
  • Monday: Closed
  • Tuesday: Closed
  • Wednesday: 10AM - 2PM
  • Thursday: 10AM - 2PM
  • Friday: 10AM - 2PM
  • Saturday: Closed

Frontier Insights

Hidden Gem
Understated Excellence
Gem Score
86

Excellent quality, understated presence

Only 120 reviews but 4.7 stars

Popular with couples

Popular With

Couples

Tourist Awareness

LevelLow

TripAdvisor: #58 of 173 things to do in Greenville

Data confidence: high(5 sources)
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