Don’t let Saluda’s size fool you. This tiny city of 570 full-time residents boasts quite a quality selection of restaurants, shops, and live music wrapped in beautiful scenery. The one-street downtown hasn’t changed much since it was founded in 1878, and that’s a good thing!
In fact, most buildings on Main Street were added to the National Register of Historic places in 1996, based on the district’s unique historic and architectural character. All this came about when the Spartanburg and Asheville Railroad arrived – at the crest of the Saluda Grade – the steepest mainline standard-gauge track in the eastern United States. Businesses moved in, summer homes were built and tourists from South Carolina filled local boarding houses to escape the hot summers. Saluda developed the reputation of a cool mountain resort town that offered health benefits to those who came.
Saluda’s reputation hasn’t changed much in the eyes of visitors. It’s a favorite of travelers, and many wonderful inns, town cottages and secluded cabins are still eager to offer rest and rejuvenation. Escaping the hustle and bustle of everyday life will certainly offer health benefits – and Saluda’s the perfect place to do it. A walk down main street will fill your senses – browse the antique shops and galleries, walk back in time with a visit to Pace’s General Store, have a delicious meal. The Green River is nearby, offering fishing, hiking, tubing and kayaking.
- Watch 3 features on Saluda from UNC-TV's North Carolina Weekend program:
A Walk to Enchanted Pearson's Falls and A Fun Day with Green River Adventures
A Visit to Downtown Saluda and a Stay at The Orchard Inn
Dinner and music at The Purple Onion Cafe.
- Visit their town web site: www.saluda.com
- Read what the Spartanburg Herald-Journal says about a visit to Saluda.