Discover the Best of Upstate 2017: A Comprehensive Guide to the Most Popular Attractions, Events and Restaurants!

Discover the best of the Upstate in 2017! From top restaurants to must-visit attractions, find out what makes this region so special.

The Upstate region of South Carolina is known for its rich history, natural beauty, and vibrant culture. Each year, the Best of the Upstate awards recognize the top businesses, restaurants, and attractions in the area, as voted on by local residents. The 2017 winners represent some of the most beloved and innovative establishments in the region, ranging from classic barbecue joints to cutting-edge tech companies.

One standout winner in the food and drink category is the Swamp Rabbit Cafe and Grocery, a community-focused market that offers fresh produce, artisanal breads, and prepared foods made with locally-sourced ingredients. Another must-visit spot is Bacon Bros. Public House, a farm-to-table restaurant that specializes in Southern-style comfort food with a modern twist.

For those interested in the arts, the Best of the Upstate 2017 features several top-notch cultural institutions. The Greenville County Museum of Art, which houses an impressive collection of American art, was named the best museum in the area. Meanwhile, the Peace Center for the Performing Arts earned accolades for its world-class lineup of concerts, Broadway shows, and dance performances.

Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to love in the Upstate region, which boasts numerous parks, trails, and natural landmarks. Among the Best of the Upstate winners are Falls Park on the Reedy, a scenic oasis in the heart of downtown Greenville, and Table Rock State Park, which offers hiking, fishing, and camping opportunities in a stunning mountain setting.

Businesses and entrepreneurs are also thriving in the Upstate, thanks to a supportive community and access to top talent and resources. The Best of the Upstate 2017 honors include several innovative startups and tech companies, such as Proterra, a manufacturer of electric buses, and ChartSpan, a healthcare data management firm.

Of course, no roundup of the best of the Upstate would be complete without a nod to the region's rich history and heritage. The Hagood Mill Historic Site and Folklife Center, which preserves and celebrates the area's rural traditions, was named the best historical attraction in the area. Meanwhile, the BMW Zentrum Museum, which showcases the iconic automaker's history and innovations, earned top honors in the tourism category.

These are just a few of the many standout winners in the Best of the Upstate 2017 awards. Whether you're a longtime resident or a first-time visitor, these businesses and attractions offer a glimpse into the unique character and charm of the Upstate region.

Introduction

The Upstate region of South Carolina is known for its scenic beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. Every year, the people of the Upstate come together to celebrate the best of their community through awards and recognition programs. In this article, we will highlight some of the winners of the Best of the Upstate 2017 awards.

Best Restaurant

The Upstate is home to some of the best restaurants in the state, but one that stands out is Husk Greenville. This restaurant serves up delicious Southern cuisine with a modern twist, using locally-sourced ingredients whenever possible. From their famous fried chicken to their mouth-watering shrimp and grits, Husk Greenville is a must-visit for foodies.

Best Local Brewery

Beer lovers rejoice – the Upstate has plenty of local breweries to choose from. However, one that takes the cake is Birds Fly South Ale Project. Their creative and innovative brews have earned them a loyal following, and their cozy taproom is the perfect spot to enjoy a cold one with friends.

Best Outdoor Destination

The Upstate is known for its natural beauty, and there are plenty of outdoor destinations to explore. One that stands out is Table Rock State Park. With miles of hiking trails, stunning waterfalls, and breathtaking views, Table Rock is a paradise for nature lovers.

Best Cultural Attraction

The Upstate is steeped in history and culture, and one attraction that showcases both is the Greenville County Museum of Art. With over 10,000 works of art, including pieces by Andrew Wyeth and Jasper Johns, this museum is a must-visit for art enthusiasts.

Best Shopping Destination

If you’re in the mood for some retail therapy, head to Haywood Mall. With over 150 stores, including high-end retailers like Apple and Coach, as well as popular chains like H&M and Forever 21, Haywood Mall has something for everyone.

Best Annual Event

The Upstate is home to many annual events, but one that draws crowds from near and far is Fall for Greenville. This festival celebrates the best of the region’s food, music, and culture, and features over 40 restaurants and 70 musical acts.

Best Live Music Venue

The Upstate has a thriving music scene, and one venue that stands out is The Peace Center. This performing arts center hosts a variety of concerts, from big-name acts to local musicians, and has been a staple of the community for over 25 years.

Best Local Park

For a relaxing day outdoors, head to Falls Park on the Reedy. Located in the heart of downtown Greenville, this park is known for its stunning waterfall, beautiful gardens, and walking trails. It’s the perfect spot for a picnic or a leisurely stroll.

Best Sports Team

The Upstate is home to several sports teams, but one that has been dominating their league is the Greenville Swamp Rabbits. This minor league hockey team has been racking up wins and entertaining fans at the Bon Secours Wellness Arena for over a decade.

Best Place to Work

For those looking for employment opportunities in the Upstate, one company stands out – Michelin North America. This tire manufacturer, headquartered in Greenville, has been recognized for its commitment to employee satisfaction and work-life balance.

Conclusion

The Upstate region of South Carolina is a vibrant and exciting place to live, work, and play. From its delicious food and drink to its stunning natural beauty, there’s something for everyone in this community. Congratulations to all the winners of the Best of the Upstate 2017 awards – you make our region a better place to call home.

Best of the Upstate 2017: Discovering Upstate New YorkUpstate New York is a region that is full of surprises. From its stunning natural landscapes and fascinating museums to its thriving businesses and top-notch medical care, there is something for everyone in this part of the state. In this article, we will explore the best of the Upstate as we take a closer look at the top restaurants, entertainment venues, nature spots, shopping centers, cultural institutions, sports teams, historical sites, schools, universities, hospitals, and businesses that make this region so special.Dining: The Top Restaurants in Upstate New YorkWhen it comes to dining in Upstate New York, there is no shortage of options. Whether you're in the mood for upscale French cuisine or a hearty plate of chicken wings, you'll find it all here. Here are some of the top restaurants in the region:

1. The Inn at Little Washington

This restaurant, located in Washington, VA, has earned three Michelin stars and is widely regarded as one of the best restaurants in the world. Chef Patrick O'Connell's tasting menu features dishes like Saffron-Poached Halibut and Lobster with Gingerbread Crumbs.

2. Blue Hill at Stone Barns

This farm-to-table restaurant, located in Pocantico Hills, NY, is housed in a restored barn on a working farm. Chef Dan Barber's menu changes daily based on what's in season and available at the farm. Expect to see dishes like Smoked Trout with Pickled Vegetables and Roast Chicken with Carrots and Green Garlic.

3. Eleven Madison Park

This New York City restaurant, which has three Michelin stars, offers a tasting menu that showcases the best of seasonal ingredients. Chef Daniel Humm's dishes include Foie Gras with Black Truffle and Lamb with Eggplant and Yogurt.

Entertainment: The Best Places to Go for Fun in Upstate NYLooking for a night out on the town? Check out these popular entertainment venues in Upstate New York:

1. Radio City Music Hall

This iconic New York City venue is known for its legendary shows and events, including the Christmas Spectacular featuring the Rockettes.

2. The Egg

This Albany-based venue offers a diverse selection of performances, from music and dance to comedy and theater.

3. The Palace Theatre

This historic Albany theatre has been entertaining audiences since 1931 and features a variety of performances, including concerts, plays, and film screenings.

Nature: The Most Beautiful Natural Landscapes in Upstate New YorkUpstate New York is home to some of the most stunning natural landscapes in the country. Here are a few spots that are not to be missed:

1. The Adirondacks

This six-million-acre park is perfect for hiking, camping, fishing, and skiing. It boasts breathtaking views of the mountains, lakes, and forests.

2. Niagara Falls

This iconic waterfall, located on the border of New York and Canada, draws millions of visitors each year. Take a boat tour to get up close and personal with the falls.

3. Watkins Glen State Park

This picturesque park features a series of waterfalls and gorges that are sure to take your breath away. Hike the trails and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

Shopping: The Best Places to Shop in Upstate NYFrom high-end boutiques to outlet malls, Upstate New York has it all. Here are a few shopping destinations that are worth checking out:

1. Destiny USA

This massive mall, located in Syracuse, NY, features over 250 stores and restaurants. It also boasts an indoor amusement park and a ropes course.

2. Woodbury Common Premium Outlets

This outlet mall, located in Central Valley, NY, features over 250 stores from top brands like Burberry, Coach, and Nike.

3. Eastview Mall

This Rochester-based mall features over 180 stores and restaurants, including high-end retailers like Louis Vuitton and Tiffany & Co.

Culture: The Most Fascinating Museums and Art Centers in Upstate New YorkUpstate New York is home to a wealth of cultural institutions, from world-class museums to intimate art galleries. Here are a few of the most notable:

1. The Corning Museum of Glass

This museum, located in Corning, NY, houses one of the most extensive collections of glass art in the world. Visitors can watch glassblowing demonstrations and even make their own glass creations.

2. The Strong National Museum of Play

This Rochester-based museum is dedicated to the history of play and features exhibits on everything from board games to video games.

3. The Albright-Knox Art Gallery

This Buffalo-based gallery is home to an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art, including works by artists like Andy Warhol and Jackson Pollock.

Sports: The Best Sports Teams and Activities in Upstate NYSports fans will find plenty to cheer about in Upstate New York. Here are a few of the top teams and activities in the region:

1. The Buffalo Bills

This NFL team has a dedicated fan base and plays its home games at New Era Field in Orchard Park, NY.

2. The Syracuse Orange

This NCAA Division I basketball team is based out of Syracuse, NY and has a storied history that includes multiple national championships.

3. Skiing at Whiteface Mountain

This Lake Placid-based ski resort features over 80 trails and is home to the highest vertical drop on the East Coast.

History: The Most Interesting Historical Sites in Upstate New YorkUpstate New York has played an important role in American history, from the Revolutionary War to the Civil Rights Movement. Here are a few sites that are worth visiting:

1. Fort Ticonderoga

This historic fort, located in Ticonderoga, NY, played a crucial role in the Revolutionary War. Today, visitors can tour the site and learn about the fort's history.

2. The Harriet Tubman National Historical Park

This Auburn-based park commemorates the life and legacy of Harriet Tubman, a conductor on the Underground Railroad who helped hundreds of slaves escape to freedom.

3. The Women's Rights National Historical Park

This Seneca Falls-based park celebrates the women's suffrage movement and includes sites like the Wesleyan Chapel, where the first Women's Rights Convention was held in 1848.

Education: The Top Schools and Universities in Upstate NYUpstate New York is home to some of the best schools and universities in the country. Here are a few that stand out:

1. Cornell University

This Ivy League university, located in Ithaca, NY, is known for its world-class research and academic programs.

2. Syracuse University

This private research university, located in Syracuse, NY, is home to some of the top programs in communications and journalism.

3. Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute

This Troy-based university is known for its strong programs in engineering and technology.

Health: The Best Hospitals and Medical Care in Upstate New YorkWhen it comes to medical care, Upstate New York has some of the best hospitals and providers in the country. Here are a few to keep in mind:

1. Strong Memorial Hospital

This Rochester-based hospital is consistently ranked as one of the best in the country for specialties like cancer care and orthopedics.

2. Albany Medical Center

This Albany-based hospital is known for its top-notch medical care, particularly in areas like cardiology and neurology.

3. Upstate University Hospital

This Syracuse-based hospital is a major teaching hospital and offers a wide range of medical services, from emergency care to specialized surgeries.

Business: The Most Successful Companies and Entrepreneurs in Upstate NYUpstate New York is home to a thriving business community that includes everything from small startups to major corporations. Here are a few notable companies and entrepreneurs:

1. Wegmans

This Rochester-based grocery store chain is consistently ranked as one of the best places to work in the country and is known for its high-quality products and customer service.

2. Dan Pallotta

This entrepreneur, based in Williamstown, MA, is known for his innovative approach to fundraising and has raised over $600 million for charity through his company, Pallotta TeamWorks.

3. Bausch & Lomb

This Rochester-based company is a global leader in eye care and produces everything from contact lenses to surgical equipment.

ConclusionUpstate New York is a region that truly has it all. From the natural beauty of the Adirondacks to the world-class dining scene in New York City, there is no shortage of things to see and do here. Whether you're interested in history, culture, sports, or business, Upstate New York offers something for everyone. So why not plan a trip and discover all that this amazing region has to offer?

Best of the Upstate 2017: An Overview

Point of View

As an avid follower of the Best of the Upstate awards, I believe it is a great platform to recognize and appreciate the best businesses, services, and products in the region. It not only encourages healthy competition but also helps consumers make informed decisions while choosing among a plethora of options.

Pros of Best of the Upstate 2017

Recognition for excellence: Winning a Best of the Upstate award is a matter of pride and prestige for any business or individual.
Increased visibility and credibility: The winners get featured on various media outlets, websites, and social media platforms, which increases their exposure and attracts more customers.
Consumer trust: The Best of the Upstate awards are a stamp of approval from the community, which makes consumers trust the winners and their offerings.

Cons of Best of the Upstate 2017

Potential bias: There is always a chance of bias towards certain nominees and winners due to personal affiliations or interests.
Limited scope: The awards cover only a few categories, which may not represent the entirety of the region's offerings.
Inevitable disappointments: Not everyone can win, and some deserving nominees may feel left out or discouraged by the results.

Comparison of Best of the Upstate 2017 Categories

Category	Winner	Runner-up	Third place
Best Restaurant	The Lazy Goat	Husk Greenville	Soby's
Best Boutique	Magnolia Scents by Design	Monkees of the Westend	Custard Boutique
Best Coffee Shop	Methodical Coffee	Village Grind	Grateful Brew

In conclusion, the Best of the Upstate 2017 awards are a valuable tool for businesses and consumers alike, despite their limitations. They help promote healthy competition, recognize excellence, and build trust among the community. However, one must also keep in mind the potential biases and limited scope while interpreting the results.

The Best of the Upstate 2017: A Recap of the Top Picks

As the year comes to a close, we wanted to take a moment to reflect on the best of the Upstate in 2017. From food to entertainment, we’ve gathered a list of the top picks that you won’t want to miss out on.

Starting with food, it’s hard to ignore the popularity of The Anchorage in Greenville. This restaurant has quickly become a favorite among locals and visitors alike, offering a unique menu that changes frequently based on seasonal ingredients. Whether you’re in the mood for seafood or something more hearty, The Anchorage is sure to satisfy your cravings.

If you’re looking for something sweet, look no further than The Chocolate Moose Bakery & Cafe in Greenville. This charming bakery offers a wide variety of baked goods, including cupcakes, cookies, and pies. Don’t miss out on their signature item, the “moose cake,” a rich chocolate cake with layers of chocolate mousse.

When it comes to drinks, Birds Fly South Ale Project in Greenville has made a name for itself in the craft beer scene. With a focus on Belgian-style beers, Birds Fly South offers a unique tasting experience that can’t be found anywhere else in the Upstate.

Switching gears to entertainment, The Peace Center in downtown Greenville continues to be a top destination for live performances. From Broadway shows to concerts, The Peace Center always has something exciting happening on its stage.

For those looking for a more low-key evening, The Pickens County Performing Arts Center offers a variety of events, from music concerts to comedy shows. Located in the heart of downtown Easley, this venue is the perfect spot for an evening out with friends or family.

Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the beauty of Table Rock State Park in Pickens County. With miles of hiking trails, breathtaking views, and opportunities for camping and fishing, this park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers.

If you’re in the mood for shopping, downtown Greenville’s West End Market offers a unique selection of locally-owned shops and boutiques. From clothing to home decor, there’s something for everyone at this trendy retail destination.

History buffs won’t want to miss out on a visit to the Upcountry History Museum in Greenville. This museum showcases the history and culture of the Upstate, from the Cherokee Indians to modern-day industries.

Finally, no list of the best of the Upstate would be complete without mentioning Falls Park on the Reedy in downtown Greenville. This beautiful park offers stunning views of the Reedy River, as well as walking paths, gardens, and public art installations. It’s the perfect spot for a picnic or a leisurely stroll.

As we say goodbye to 2017, we can’t wait to see what the Upstate has in store for us in the coming year. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, be sure to check out these top picks and experience the best that the Upstate has to offer.

Thank you for reading and we hope you have a wonderful new year!