03 Apr Community Compass: North Main

Exploring North Main:

As one of Greenville’s oldest neighborhoods, North Main has been a pivotal part of our city’s rich history since the mid 1800s. North Main is truly a lovely mix of an established historic neighborhood and the convenience of being within blocks of Greenville’s Main Street, which contains the city’s best restaurants, theater and nightlife.

Your Neighborhood Expert: 

Nick Carlson, Coldwell Banker Caine Agent

 On the Community…

“North Main is an eclectic combination of prime historic real estate and modern nuances that showcases the best of what Greenville has to offer. There is always something going on due to the extremely active North Main Community Association, which is entirely made up of volunteers. It’s definitely the craft beer drinking side of town, drawing a younger crowd, and during Halloween, North Main is the hottest spot for festivities.”

On Market Trends…

“Currently, there is more demand than there is supply for homes which is forcing prices higher.  In the past 10 years we have seen higher appreciation than other parts of Greenville, and it’s mostly from families and retirees who want to be a part of the vibrant community. It’s also fed by many redevelopment projects around the area.”

North Main contains several historic districts that infuse the neighborhood with beautiful signature architecture and charm specific to the area. Take a walk along the beautifully landscaped streets and sidewalks to see for yourself!

Heritage Historic: 1920s bungalow style homes

East Park Avenue Historic: 20th century architecture including the Craftsman, American Foursquare, Tudor, and Neo-Classical styles.

Earle Street Historic: Early 20th century historical revival styles including Neo-Classical, Dutch Colonial, Georgian Revival, English Cottage, and Tudor. Houses are known for detached car garages to accommodate the automobile.

 Along with the unique historical homes and mansions, North Main also sports modern townhouses and cozy cottages. From multi-family to single-family homes, there are a wide variety of residence sizes, styles and new developments, mirroring the diverse population who call it home.

Things To Do, Places to Be:

 Drinks & Eats

Northgate Soda Shop–  Do you crave nostalgia and want to get a little taste of Old Greenvillein the 50’s? Walk into Northgate Soda Shop, and you’ll be greeted by the gracious staff with an ice cold Pepsi-Cola or crisp, refreshing beer. Take a seat at a countertop stool and enjoy the popular pimento cheeseburger while socializing with locals of all ages and backgrounds. As North Main’s best kept secret, Northgate Soda Shop was featured in Hamburger America as “One Of The 100 Great Hamburger Joints in America.”

The Community Tap– TCT is North Main’s relaxed neighborhood brewery that you want to rave to your friends about. Stop by and fill up your growler with an assortment of specialty brews and select wine on tap or grab a 6-pack of craft beer to go. You can’t go wrong with their dynamic selection.

 

Shopping

Shinola Antique Store– Eclectic, funky and unique are just a few words that describe Shinola. There’s no rhyme or reason to the store’s layout, but you will be sure to find a specialty piece that will accent your home. If you venture out back, you’ll even be greeted by a rooster and chickens roaming about the grounds.

Horizon Records– As one of the oldest independent, mom & pop record stores in the southeast, Horizon Records is a music lover’s paradise. The space contains shelves upon shelves of new and used CDs, LPs, DVDs and books. They also offer a free concert series, known as Tower of Song, in the adjoining Bohemian Café, which is a unique experience for both artists and audiences.

 Events

Known for its Dogwood line and gorgeous gardens, North Main has such wonderful landscaping that it’s showcased in the Spring Garden Tour. This is an annual event presented by The Greenville Council of Garden Clubs that occurs in April.  The tour offers families a great way to enjoy the beautiful gardens in the historic North Main area.

Parks

McPherson Park, the City’s oldest public park, is located in the southern boundary. It’s a popular place for community events. Here you will find the Senior Center, lighted tennis courts, picnic and bandstand shelter, playground and miniature golf. Rotary Park has a great nature trail for the avid walker, jogger or nature enthusiast.

Written by: Jill Shepard              Photos by: Rachel Williams