It's no secret, most of us would like to stay in our own home as we age. Yet, sometimes our loved ones just need a little extra help to remain comfortable at home. That's where Always Best Care can help....we are dedicated to exceeding expectations....always.
They say that your golden years are the best years of your life. For most older Americans, that's how it should be - a time to relax, reflect, and live life in a familiar place. After all, senior citizens in the U.S. have worked tirelessly to build a better economy, serve their communities, and raise families.
However, as seniors grow older, completing daily tasks like showering and enjoying activities such as visiting the historic The Historic Spring Park Inn gets harder without someone by their side. Unfortunately, many older Americans aren't able to rely on their adult children for help. The reality in today's world is that family members do not have the skills or time to dedicate to caring for their parents. That's where Always Best Care Senior Services comes in.
Our in-home care services are for people who prefer to stay at home as they grow older but need ongoing care that family or friends cannot provide. More and more older adults prefer to live far away from long-term, institutionalized facilities and closer to the place where they feel most comfortable - their home. Home care in Travelers Rest, SC is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.
Home Care Services
Service AreasSince 1996, Always Best Care has provided non-medical in-home care for seniors to help them maintain a healthy lifestyle as they get older. We are proud to have helped more than 25,000 seniors maintain higher levels of dignity and respect. We focus on providing seniors with the highest level of in-home care available so that they may live happily and independently.
Unlike some senior care companies, we genuinely want to be included in our clients' lives. We believe that personalized care is always the better option over a "one size fits all" approach. To make sure our senior clients receive the best care possible, we pair them with compassionate caregivers who understand their unique needs. That way, they may provide care accordingly without compromising their wellbeing.
The Always Best Care difference lies in life's little moments - where compassionate care and trustworthy experience come together to help seniors live a fruitful, healthy life. Whether you are an aging adult that can't quite keep up with life's daily tasks or the child of a senior who needs regular in-home services, Always Best Care is here to help.
“Working for Always Best Care was a blast! The schedule coordinator is only a phone”
“Always Best Care (ABC) is the best health care place to work at! It was”
“I was looking for 24 hr home care for my mother who was living alone”
“Always best care is a great company to work with! Holly is great at getting”
“Excellent company and employees. They always go above and beyond to make sure clients and”
“The company is amazing, in my whole heartedly honest opinion. I've been working there for”
“Always Best Care really lives up to its name! Bruce and Holly were incredible and”
“When my father fell and broke his arm, we needed help quickly as my mother”
“So I have known Bruce Meyer for quite some time now. He came at a”
“I’ve work for this company for about a month now. We are a family with”
“My wife is a recent former client of Always Best Care. The only reason we”
“I was recently in a motor vehicle accident and found myself needing 24 hour care.”
“Always Best Care has always been close to home, so to speak, and this was”
“Caring, compassionate and thorough. Professional and they listen to best meet your needs.”
“Wonderful caring people who go out of their way to ensure your loved ones are”
“What a journey we experienced with Always Best Care! They were with us every step”
“Bruce and his team at Always Best Care have been a tremendous help to many”
“I have been a client of Always Best Care (ABC) in Greenville, SC for nearly”
“Staff is well screened and trained. Company is very professional and caring, they will find”
“When our mother needed in home care we researched other options before selecting Always Best”
“Bruce and his special team were with us every step of the way. A very”
“excellent owner and management staff. great caregivers. responsible, dedicated, trustworthy, dependable.”
“Always Best Care are the absolute BEST home care agency I have EVER worked for”
“We have been with ABC for about six months and could not be more pleased.”
“I have only been working for Always Best Care for about two months. And it”
“Working for Always Best Care was a blast! The schedule coordinator is only a phone call day or night. The learning environment is wonderful I never felt stupid asking questions. This is the best care company anyone could work for! It’s great to know that the company has your back. 10/10 recommend!”
“Always Best Care (ABC) is the best health care place to work at! It was never just a job for me, it was so much more than that! You become so close to each other like family! The employees work as a team which makes it so much enjoyable! Thank you for all you’ve done for me ABC!!!”
“I was looking for 24 hr home care for my mother who was living alone after my Dad's passing. My mother also had Dementia. ABC was recommended by her PCP. I was immediately impressed with my 1st meeting with their Senior Program Coordinator. She took detailed notes about the daily routine. My mind was set at ease when she explained their COVID protocols which included wiping down surfaces, mask requirements and unannounced periodic supervisor check-ins on caregivers. Daily each caregiver maintained meticulous documentation on my mother's daily routines - when she got up - what she ate. They also handled mail sorting and other sensitive confidential information. I was particularly impressed with the professional and caring demeanor of the caregivers. Shift changes overlapped allowing caregivers time to share pertinent information and there was often training from senior caregivers to junior team members about handling transfers and safety. ABC is a first class well run home care providing company.”
“Always best care is a great company to work with! Holly is great at getting back to you and changing hours for the caregivers as needed, Bruce constantly is checking in to make sure the family has a support they need, and the caregivers go over and beyond!”
“Excellent company and employees. They always go above and beyond to make sure clients and coworkers needs are met.I have worked for this company for 23 years and I recommend this company for anyone looking for extra help for their loved ones.”
“The company is amazing, in my whole heartedly honest opinion. I've been working there for over a year and the office has always been there when I needed them. Bruce Meyer and Holly Jones are top notch in the office and work to help us caregivers/CNA's as well as our clients.”
“Always Best Care really lives up to its name! Bruce and Holly were incredible and gave consistent and professional care for our family member and went above and beyond on many occasions. I would recommend them heartily!!”
“When my father fell and broke his arm, we needed help quickly as my mother has Alzheimers. We meet with Bruce on Monday and by Wednesday, we had caregivers in the home 7/24. I've been a recruiter for 22 years and I know that finding good people is hard work. ABC has some fantastic employees and they have been a welcome addition to the home during this transition to Assisted Living. Bruce and his team answered our call day and night and responded quickly and professionally. There are always bumps when you are starting a new project, but it's how you handle them that is important. I have the utmost respect for Bruce and his team and I recommend them if you need care for a family member.”
“So I have known Bruce Meyer for quite some time now. He came at a time where I was struggling to find a job. God sure does work in amazing ways. He was the reason I said yes to the job. It wasn’t just another interview where they just hired anybody. It was a place where I could feel comfortable and not nervous and leave the “interview” knowing I had found a wonderful place to work for. I’ll never forget that day when I agreed to take it because of the words he spoke to me. He said “God is calling you to walk through the doors. “ That alone will tell you how wonderful he is and the care that he gives to those he believes is a good fit for the job. I have been working for Always Best Care since September of 2020. Ever since I started I knew I was in the right hands with the best company I could have ever asked for. They go above and beyond to give exceptional care/ support to the clients, families, and staff.I have heard nothing but positive feedback from anyone I come In contact to that receive their services. I am truly blessed to call this not only my job but my family.”
“I’ve work for this company for about a month now. We are a family with our client’s as our main priority!! The name doesn’t lie we Always give the Best Care, you won’t regret your decision with ABC.”
“My wife is a recent former client of Always Best Care. The only reason we are no longer using their services is she was approved for Medicaid. Bruce was great during his initial visit to find out my wife's needs. They were able to provide an aide very quickly. Cortney, the supervisor nurse, is awesome and went above and beyond. When an aide couldn't make it, they had someone else ready. All of the aides have been fantastic and will be missed.”
“I was recently in a motor vehicle accident and found myself needing 24 hour care. Always best care provided services for me for about 2 months. I feel like all the caretakers we’re capable and caring they certainly were a great help to me from cooking, to light cleaning, walking my dog, and helping with various needs I had. I would definitely recommend ABC for caretaking services!”
“Always Best Care has always been close to home, so to speak, and this was no different! Bruce & the team helped us out so much! They cared for my loved one just as if she was their own. And they even help with the transitions in life for when the need may arise. They are like family. If you ever have concerns, voice them, because they are willing to go the extra mile for you! ????”
“Caring, compassionate and thorough. Professional and they listen to best meet your needs.”
“Wonderful caring people who go out of their way to ensure your loved ones are treated right and cared for - would highly recommend!!”
“What a journey we experienced with Always Best Care! They were with us every step of the way. Professional, loving, and truly part of the family! We are forever grateful to their special team!”
“Bruce and his team at Always Best Care have been a tremendous help to many of my clients over the years. They provide services to seniors with the utmost in care and professionalism. I highly recommend Always Best Care!”
“I have been a client of Always Best Care (ABC) in Greenville, SC for nearly 5 months. The responsiveness and value added provided by their service has been outstanding, always going the extra mile in terms of advice on how to deal with the complexities of medicare, and health insurance for the elderly, and in particular the difficulties of handling dementia in the case of a loved one. The ownership and staff provide great individualized attention to the specific needs of every single client. They will search for the right caregiver to provide the required level of care for you and your loved ones. I wholeheartedly endorse them. I would rate my experience with them a perfect 10.”
“Staff is well screened and trained. Company is very professional and caring, they will find the right fit to meet your needs.”
“When our mother needed in home care we researched other options before selecting Always Best Care. Bruce Meyer and his team of caregivers gave us the level of care and attention we were looking for. The ladies who attended to our mom were always on time and were always extremely loving and gentle. Our mom looked forward to the daily visits. We choose a non-fri schd of 8am - 12pm. When she later moved to more 24 hr nursing home requirements, her caregivers continued to stay in touch and became part of our extended family. Always Best Care will Always be our first option! Thanks again to this wonderful team.”
“Bruce and his special team were with us every step of the way. A very difficult journey and they carried us through it!”
“excellent owner and management staff. great caregivers. responsible, dedicated, trustworthy, dependable.”
“Always Best Care are the absolute BEST home care agency I have EVER worked for ! They truly appreciate and care about there caregivers and clients ! Bruce , Ashley and Jessica are truly one of a kind and I couldn’t have asked for a better home care agency to work for ! I 100% recommend them to care for your loved ones !”
“We have been with ABC for about six months and could not be more pleased. Ashley and Jessica make every effort to be sure our needs are meet. Bruce and Helen have been invaluable in helping with our long term care insurance. Our caregiver , Cat Sellers , has been a godsend. She has become a member of our family. She has a unique ablity to be both personal and professional. We look forward to her cheerful spirit each day. Thank you , ABC. Rev. and Mrs. Todd Walter.”
“I have only been working for Always Best Care for about two months. And it has been such a great experience. I been in healthcare for ten years. Have worked in nursing homes, assisted living, and home health. But this is by far the best company yet. They are truly some loving, gentle, and caring people to work for. Bruce, Jessica, and Ashley are awesome. I love that they don't mind getting in there and getting their hands dirty. But most of all, if I had a loved one that needed care, I would most definatley use Always Best Care. Why? Because I know they would be well taken care of. They show love for their workers. We are family at Always Best Care.”
Home is where the heart is. While that saying can sound a tad cliche, it is especially true for many seniors living in America. When given a choice, older adults most often prefer to grow older at home. An AARP study found that three out of four adults over the age of 50 want to stay in their homes and communities as they age.
When you begin to think about why, it makes sense. Home offers a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity.
The truth is, as we age, we begin to rely on others for help. When a family is too busy or lives too far away to fulfill this role, in-home senior care is often the best solution. Home care services allow seniors to enjoy personal independence while also receiving trustworthy assistance from a trained caregiver.
At Always Best Care, we offer a comprehensive range of home care services to help seniors stay healthy while they get the help they need to remain independent. As your senior loved one gets older, giving them the gift of senior care is one of the best ways to show your love, even if you live far away.
To give our senior clients the best care possible, we offer a full spectrum of in-home care services:
If your senior loved one has specific care needs, our personal care services are a great choice to consider. Personal care includes the standard caregiving duties associated with companion care and includes help with tasks such as dressing and grooming. Personal care can also help individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes.
Common personal care services include assistance with:
Sometimes, seniors need helpful reminders to maintain a high quality of life at home. If you or your senior has trouble with everyday tasks like cooking, our home helper services will be very beneficial.
Common home helper care services include assistance with:
Using this kind of care is a fantastic way to make life easier for you or your senior loved one. At Always Best Care, our talented caregivers often fill the role of a companion for seniors. That way, older adults can enjoy their favorite local activities, such as visiting Trailblazer Park with friends while also receiving the care they need daily or weekly.
Common companionship services include:
According to AARP, more than 53 million adults living in the U.S. provide care to someone over 50 years old. Unfortunately, these caregivers experience stress, exhaustion, and even depression. Our respite care services help family caregivers address urgent obligations, spend time with their children, and enjoy nearby activities. Perhaps more importantly, respite care gives family members time to recharge and regroup. Taking personal time to de-stress reduces the risk of caregiver burnout. So, if you've always wanted to eat at the local Topsoil Restaurant or visit History Museum of Travelers Rest, don't feel bad. Doing so is great for both you and your loved one.
At the end of the day, our goal is to become a valuable part of your senior's daily routine. That way, we may help give them the highest quality of life possible. We know that staying at home is important for your loved one, and we are here to help make sure that is possible.
If you have been on the fence about non-medical home care, there has never been a better time than now to give your senior the care, assistance, and companionship they deserve.
Always Best Care in-home services are for older adults who prefer to stay at home but need ongoing care that friends and family cannot provide. In-home care is a safe, effective way for seniors to age gracefully in a familiar place and live independent, non-institutionalized lives. The benefits of non-medical home care are numerous. Here are just a few reasons to consider senior care services from Always Best Care:
According to AARP, 9 out of 10 seniors prefer to age in place within the comfort of their own home. With in-home care, seniors have a way to stay at home, receive the care they need, and maintain a sense of independence, improving overall wellness.
If you or a member of your family have assumed the role of caregiver for your senior loved one, you know how stressful the job can be. Between caregiver burnout and constant worry, being a family caregiver is hard. In-home care relieves your burden and gives you peace of mind knowing that your older family member is in expert hands.
Unlike nursing homes, where the staff and residents rotate frequently, seniors can foster new friendships and build bonds with their caregiver. Seniors who socialize on a regular basis are often happier, which fosters positivity and leads to increased wellbeing.
No two seniors need the same kind of in-home care assistance. That is why each of our Care Plans is tailored to meet our client's individual needs. We offer plans that cover everything from light housekeeping to more involved duties like transportation to doctor's appointments. Our Care Coordinators will work closely with you to develop a personalized plan to ensure your senior's needs are exceeded.
Always Best Care offers a full array of care options for patients at all levels of health. With our trusted elderly care services, your loved one will receive the level of care necessary for them to enjoy the highest possible quality of life.
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While it's true that some seniors have complicated medical needs that prevent them from staying at home, aging in place is often the best arrangement for seniors and their families. With a trusted caregiver, seniors have the opportunity to live with a sense of dignity and do so as they see fit - something that is unavailable to many older people today.
In-home care makes it possible for millions of seniors to age in place every year. Rather than moving to a strange nursing home, seniors have the chance to stay at home where they feel the happiest and most comfortable.
How much does a senior's home truly mean to them?
A study published by the American Society on Aging found that more than half of seniors say their home's emotional value means more than how much their home is worth in monetary value. It stands to reason, then, that a senior's home is where they want to grow old.
With the help of elderly care in Travelers Rest, SC, seniors don't have to age in a sterilized care facility. Instead, they can age gracefully in the place they want to be most: their home. In contrast, seniors who move to a long-term care facility must adapt to new environments, new people, and new systems that the facility implements. At this stage in life, this kind of drastic change can be more harmful than helpful.
Institutional care facilities like nursing homes often put large groups of people together to live in one location. On any given day, dozens of staff members and caregivers run in and out of these facilities. Being around so many new people in a relatively small living environment can be dangerous for a seniors' health and wellbeing. When you consider that thousands of seniors passed away in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, opting for in-home care is often a safer, healthier choice for seniors.
Aging in place has been shown to improve seniors' quality of life, which helps boost physical health and also helps insulate them from viral and bacterial risks found in elderly living facilities.
For many seniors, the ability to live independently with assistance from a caregiver is a priceless option. With in-home care, seniors experience a higher level of independence and freedom - much more so than in other settings like a nursing home. When a senior has the chance to age in place, they get to live life on their own terms, inside the house that they helped make into a home. More independence means more control over their personal lives, too, which leads to increased levels of fulfillment, happiness, and personal gratification. Over time, these positive feelings can manifest into a healthier, longer life.
More independence, a healthier life, and increased comfort are only a few benefits of aging in place. You have to take into consideration the role of cost and convenience. Simply put, it's usually easier and more affordable to help seniors age in place than it is to move them into an institutional care facility. According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, seniors who age in the comfort of their homes can save thousands of dollars per month.
In-home care services from Always Best Care, for instance, are often less expensive than long-term solutions, which can cost upwards of six figures per year. To make matters worse, many residential care facilities are reluctant to accept long-term care insurance and other types of payment assistance.
With Always Best Care's home care services, seniors and their families have a greater level of control over their care plans. In-home care gives seniors the chance to form a bond with a trusted caregiver and also receive unmatched care that is catered to their needs. In long-term care facilities, seniors and their loved ones have much less control over their care plan and have less of a say in who provides their care.
In-home care is a valuable resource that empowers seniors to age in place on their own terms. However, a big concern for many families and their loved ones is how much in-home care costs. If you're worried that in-home care is too expensive, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that it is one of the most affordable senior care arrangements available.
Typically, hiring an Always Best Care in-home caregiver for a few hours a week is more affordable than sending your loved one to a long-term care facility. This is true even for seniors with more complex care needs.
At Always Best Care, we will work closely with you and your family to develop a Care Plan that not only meets your care needs, but your budget requirements, too. Once we discover the level of care that you or your senior need, we develop an in-home care plan that you can afford.
In addition to our flexible care options, families should also consider the following resources to help offset potential home care costs:
When you or your senior loved one needs assistance managing daily tasks at home, finding a qualified caregiver can be challenging. It takes a special kind of person to provide reliable care for your senior loved one. However, a caregiver's role involves more than meal preparation and medication reminders. Many seniors rely on their caregivers for companionship, too.
Our companion care services give seniors the chance to socialize in a safe environment and engage in activities at home. These important efforts boost morale and provide much-needed relief from repetitive daily routines. A one-on-one, engaging conversation can sharpen seniors' minds and give them something in which to be excited.
At Always Best Care, we only hire care providers that we would trust to care for our own loved ones. Our senior caregivers in Travelers Rest, SC understand how important it is to listen and communicate with their seniors. A seemingly small interaction, like a short hug goodbye, can make a major difference in a senior's day. Instead of battling against feelings of isolation, seniors begin to look forward to seeing their caregiver each week.
Understanding the nuances of senior care is just one of the reasons why our care providers are so great at their job.
Unlike some senior care companies, our caregivers must undergo extensive training before they work for Always Best Care. In addition, our caregivers receive ongoing training throughout the year. This training ensures that their standard of care matches up to the high standards we've come to expect. During this training, they will brush up on their communication skills, safety awareness, and symptom spotting. That way, your loved one receives the highest level of non-medical home care from day one.
While it's true that many seniors prefer to age at home, sometimes in-home care isn't the best fit. For those seniors and their families, choosing an assisted living facility makes more sense. Unfortunately, finding the optimal care facility is easier said than done in today's day and age. That's when Always Best Care's assisted living referral services begin to make a lot of sense.
Assisted living is a form of housing intended for seniors who require varying degrees of medical and personal attention. Accommodations may include single rooms, apartments, or shared living arrangements. Assisted living communities are typically designed to resemble a home-like environment and are physically constructed to encourage the independence of residents.
At assisted living communities, seniors receive help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating. They may also benefit from coordination of services with outside healthcare providers, and monitoring of resident activities to ensure their health, safety, and well-being. Caregivers who work at assisted living communities can also provide medication administration and personal care services for older adults.
Other services offered within assisted living communities can include some or all of the following:
At Always Best Care, our representatives can match your senior's emotional, physical, and financial needs with viable assisted living communities nearby. Results are based on comparative data, so you can select the best choice for you or your loved one.
Always Best Care works closely with local senior living communities to gain valuable knowledge that we then use to help seniors and their loved ones make informed decisions. This information can include basic care and rent, resident availability, and services provided. Because Always Best Care is compensated by these communities, we provide senior living referral services at no extra cost to you.
Some of the most popular assisted living communities to consider in our area include the following:
For many seniors, moving into a senior living community revolves around how and when they want to make a transition to more involved care. Some seniors are more proactive about transitioning to independent living. Others choose to remain home until their care needs or other requirements are satisfied. Remember - our staff is here to help. Contact our office today to learn more about assisted living communities and how we can find a facility that exceeds your expectations.
The first step in getting quality in-home care starts with a personal consultation with an experienced Always Best Care Care Coordinator. This initial consultation is crucial for our team to learn more about you or your elderly loved one to discover the level of care required. Topics of this consultation typically include:
A discussion of your needs and how our trained caregivers can offer assistance in the most effective way
A draft of your care plan, which includes highly detailed notes and a framework for the care that you or your senior will receive
Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider
Our caregivers are trained to spot changes that clients exhibit, like mental and physical decline. As your trusted senior care company, we will constantly assess and update your Care Plan to meet any new emotional, intellectual, physical, and emotional needs.
If you have never considered in-home care before, we understand that you and your family may have concerns about your Care Plan and its Care Coordinator. To help give you peace of mind, know that every team member and caregiver must undergo comprehensive training before being assigned to a Care Plan.
At the end of the day, we only hire the best of the best at Always Best Care. Whether you need home care in Travelers Rest, SC 24-hours a day or only need a respite for a couple of hours, we are here to serve you.
When you're ready, we encourage you to contact your local Always Best Care representative to set up a Care Consultation. Our Care Coordinators would be happy to meet with you in person to get to know you better, discuss your needs, and help put together a personalized Care Plan specific to your needs.
A weekend getaway to South Carolina’s beloved Greenville is a cherished trip for many, but just north of Greenville is the smaller and perhaps more underrated town of Travelers Rest. Known as TR by locals, this town has a rich history rooted in its strategic location along historic trade routes. Travelers Rest earned its name as a resting spot for weary travelers journeying along the Old Buncombe Road (which linked North Carolina to Georgia). First came the Cherokee Native Americans, followed by livestock drovers, and then families see...
A weekend getaway to South Carolina’s beloved Greenville is a cherished trip for many, but just north of Greenville is the smaller and perhaps more underrated town of Travelers Rest. Known as TR by locals, this town has a rich history rooted in its strategic location along historic trade routes. Travelers Rest earned its name as a resting spot for weary travelers journeying along the Old Buncombe Road (which linked North Carolina to Georgia). First came the Cherokee Native Americans, followed by livestock drovers, and then families seeking relief from the summer heat in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
With ancient mountain ranges and historic trails, Travelers Rest truly gets more beautiful with age. Today, Travelers Rest still lives up to its name, serving as a haven for nature lovers, food enthusiasts, and those seeking adventure. Wherever you go in town, scenic views and good stories are never far. Here are 14 ways to make the most of your visit to TR.
Travelers Rest is all about embracing life at a slower pace, so you might as well take the scenic route. Winding along Main Street, the Prisma Health Swamp Rabbit Trail is a 22-mile greenway (it actually connects all the way to Greenville) following the former Greenville and Northern railroad line. Perfect for biking, walking, or running, this trail allows you to enjoy the beautiful views and peaceful surroundings as you soak in the town’s charm.
If panoramic mountain views and outdoor live music are your thing, spend a few hours at Trailblazer Park. This park is a vibrant cultural hub of Travelers Rest and is recognized as one of the best outdoor music venues in the state. With a giant open-air amphitheater, a covered pavilion that hosts the local farmers market, and plenty of open green spaces to relax, Trailblazer Park is an excellent way to enjoy the town from a local’s perspective.
The History Museum of Travelers Rest, operated by the Travelers Rest Historical Society, will give you a look into the town’s rich history as a resting spot for travelers. Here, you’ll learn about the influential men and women who’ve lived or passed through Travelers Rest over the years and observe a collection of local artifacts. You’ll want to plan your visit ahead of time, as the History Museum is only open on the weekends.
Stretching just 130 feet over Little Gap Creek, the Poinsett Bridge is believed to be the oldest surviving bridge in South Carolina. This 14-foot Gothic arch stone structure was named after Joel Poinsett, an American diplomat and prominent Greenville resident. Tourists who stop by are often pleasantly surprised to learn this bridge is part of the Poinsett Bridge Heritage Preserve, a park and protected area with nature trails well suited for hiking.
There’s no better souvenir than the things grown and crafted by local artisans. The Travelers Rest Farmers Market, open every Saturday from May to September in the Trailblazer Park pavilion, features over 70 vendors, live music, food trucks, and more. The market is located right off the Swamp Rabbit Trail, so it’s the perfect excuse to stop for a treat after a long walk or bike ride.
If you can’t make the farmers market (or if you just love sunflowers), head to Beechwood Farms. At Beechwood, you can get a glimpse into large-scale farming, visit the farm animals, and shop the roadside market for local produce. If you visit between August and September, you will get to see Sunflower Hill in full bloom. You can even capture the moment by booking a sunflower photography session through the Beechwood Farms website.
Small towns often have some of the best coffee shops, and this one has a fun and artistic twist. This hip and colorful art cafe is a great spot to grab lunch and get creative. Just pick one of their paintable items and place your order at the register alongside your food. The café serves breakfast and lunch all day and features a full-service coffee bar. When you're finished, you'll leave with a unique, personalized memento of your visit to Travelers Rest.
Picking season in Travelers Rest is not to be missed. Open daily except Mondays during the season, MacGregor Orchards lets you roll up your sleeves and fill up your basket with peaches, apples, plums, nectarines, figs, and more. While you’re there, savor the fresh apple cider, applesauce, apple butter, and a variety of fruit preserves made by the welcoming orchard owners.
Start your day with a hearty, wholesome meal at Tandem Creperie and Coffeehouse. This brunch hotspot serves sweet and savory crepes, made from simple, fresh ingredients, along with a generous selection of coffee and tea. Its motto is “Together is Best," so this cozy, welcoming restaurant and its large crepes are meant to be shared. If crepes aren’t your thing, you can’t go wrong with their whole-wheat waffles or maple pecan granola.
If you've ever dreamed of an Italian getaway, Restaurant 17 offers the perfect little European escape. Specializing in Italian and Mediterranean cuisine, this swanky dinner spot is celebrated for its old-world charm and hospitality. Enjoy farm fresh cuisine and seasonal dishes, including the figs and prosciutto and the popular Duroc Pork Chop. Be sure to sit on the patio to enjoy the soothing sounds of an in-ground water fountain display and the majestic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, which are graced by colorful sunsets in the evening.
If you’re looking for something casual yet filling, head downtown to Farmhouse Tacos. This charming rustic-modern restaurant specializes in farm-to-table Tex-Mex, serving hand-crafted tacos, quesadillas, burrito bowls, and a variety of specialty plates. True to its motto, "Made with love in Travelers Rest," the restaurant takes pride in using locally sourced ingredients, ensuring all dishes are fresh and flavorful. It’s also a great spot to unwind with specialty drinks and craft beers from Carolina-based brewers.
Best known as Travelers Rest’s first craft brewery, this spot is a local favorite popular for its world-class selection of beers, with everything from pale ales to porters. With pet-friendly outdoor seating, a rotating lineup of food trucks, and a vibrant atmosphere featuring live music and trivia nights, even non-beer enthusiasts will find plenty to do. It's located just off the Swamp Rabbit Trail, so you’re likely to see a wave of cyclists stopping by after their rides. Just look for the giant rabbit mural on the side of the building, and you’ll know you’ve arrived.
Hotel Domestique, sitting in the countryside of Upstate South Carolina, redefines the boutique hotel experience. This peaceful retreat houses 13 elegantly-decorated rooms complimented by exposed stone walls and rustic hardwoods. Owned by world-renowned cyclist George Hincapie, the hotel also caters to cycling enthusiasts with guided rides, e-bikes, and an on-site mechanic. If you’re strictly in relaxation mode, you can always take a plunge in the saltwater pool or decompress inside the infrared sauna. Hotel Domestique is also the home of Restaurant 17, bringing the European countryside experience right to your backyard.
The natural beauty of Travelers Rest deserves to be experienced up close. To stay in the heart of Travelers Rest, consider opting for luxury lodging along The Swamp Rabbit Trail. The Station by Compo Hotels is an eco-friendly collection of modern vacation cottages equipped with everything you need for a staycation: a washer/dryer, kitchen, portable stove, and more. Enjoy your morning cup of coffee on the private patio as you watch locals and fellow travelers pass by on the trail.
TRAVELERS REST, S.C. —The Travelers Rest high school football team is hoping to take a step forward this fall in head coach Chris Goodman's second season leading the team."They say it takes three years to build a culture," Goodman said. "We've been focusing on sense of urgency, put this gold standard forward about how to act and how to be. Not that those things weren't mentioned last year, but they're starting to stick."The Devildogs won their season opener last August but ended...
TRAVELERS REST, S.C. —
The Travelers Rest high school football team is hoping to take a step forward this fall in head coach Chris Goodman's second season leading the team.
"They say it takes three years to build a culture," Goodman said. "We've been focusing on sense of urgency, put this gold standard forward about how to act and how to be. Not that those things weren't mentioned last year, but they're starting to stick."
The Devildogs won their season opener last August but ended the season on an 8-game losing streak. Goodman brought in 5 new coaches this offseason, including a new offensive and defensive coordinator to help the team improve.
"We talk about that history all the time," Goodman said. "We haven't won a playoff game since 1984, we haven't won the region since '81, so the boys know what the focus is and they know what our goals are, so we constantly have something to dig for."
The Devildogs don't have many starters returning, but quarterback Colby Epps is back after battling injuries last year.
"Last year we had a lot of injuries, and it kinda broke the team mentally," Epps said. "We weren't always focused. This year, the lock-in is good and we're ready to hit some people."
Goodman also believes one of the team's strengths will be its offensive line.
"We would love to live in the trenches on both sides," Goodman said.
Overall, the Devildogs have a ton of belief that this season will be much better than 2024.
"We are celebrating other people's successess and that's a start," Goodman said.
"The energy in the weight room, the energy at practice, we're way more disciplined, way more energy, the team is more vocal," Xzay Hagerman said.
The Devildogs open their season on Aug. 22 at Wade Hampton.
Pigskin Previews:
Christ Church
Daniel Lions
Four spacious covered wagons await your next adventure at the Travelers Rest KOA in Greenville County, SC. The campground is beautiful and in an ideal location for that little family getaway you’ve been dreaming about.Thank you to the Travelers Rest KOA for hosting us so we could do this review!Always on the hunt for cool places to stay with my kids, when I saw the Travelers Rest KOA – not ten minutes from Main Street in Travelers Rest, SC – post about their brand new covered wagons at the campground,...
Four spacious covered wagons await your next adventure at the Travelers Rest KOA in Greenville County, SC. The campground is beautiful and in an ideal location for that little family getaway you’ve been dreaming about.
Thank you to the Travelers Rest KOA for hosting us so we could do this review!
Always on the hunt for cool places to stay with my kids, when I saw the Travelers Rest KOA – not ten minutes from Main Street in Travelers Rest, SC – post about their brand new covered wagons at the campground, I knew that had to be my next stop. And the fact that it was 30 minutes from where I live in Greenville County was an incredible bonus! If you’re looking for an awesome little getaway that isn’t far, this is it.
This was my first KOA experience and thanks to the pretty awesome managers, Terri & Bill, I learned a lot about the company and this particular site in Northern Greenville County.
I’ll tell you all about the campground, the amenities they offer, the new covered wagons, and nearby activities.
Started in 1962 as a campground for travelers, KOA has expanded to over 500 locations in North America. The trademark yellow sign means a place for families to relax and have fun together.
KOA is mostly a franchise operation so many of the individual campgrounds are run and operated by local individuals, which I think really makes each spot unique. Terri and Bill have worked for KOA for many years and have extensive management experience of campgrounds. If they ever decide to write a book, let me tell you that I’d be the first to read it.
The couple moved out here to the Travelers Rest KOA only about a year and a half ago from Wyoming, where they had been managing another KOA campground. They immediately fell in love with Travelers Rest and Terri tells me the people here really make it feel like home. She just loves the community.
The couple has done a lot to make the particular campground welcoming and enjoyable for all guests. They have a seasonal pool open usually Memorial Day through Labor Day, a playground, a nature trail, basketball hoop, an enclosed area for dogs to run around in, giant Connect 4 and Checkers, and space to ride bikes. At the covered wagon sites, there are horseshoe pits, cornhole, and roping of steers. It’s a blast!
Each site also has its own raised charcoal grill and the covered wagons all have firepits and chairs. There are RV sites, cabins, and the covered wagons at the KOA in Travelers Rest.
The four covered wagons are from Kansas from a company called Plains Craft. These wagons are surprisingly spacious and comfortable. I was only there with my two kids and we had plenty of space.
There are currently four wagons: two of them sleep four people (one bunk bed and one king bed), one sleeps two people in a king bed, and one sleeps six people (two bunk beds and a king bed). That last one could probably even fit a pack n play if needed – there’s that much space.
Each wagon has a mini-fridge, Keurig coffee maker, and microwave. I had precooked our dinner before we came so I just heated it up because I really didn’t prepare well. I totally slacked on bringing ingredients for s’mores or anything to grill. So don’t be like me – bring those s’mores ingredients at least. You can purchase firewood on site.
There is a big open space at the end of the covered wagons that has two horseshoe pits, two steers to practice roping on because now you’re a cowboy, and cornhole. My girls loved playing all of these games.
We also appreciated the little free library at the campsite since I failed to bring games with me. They had some in there that we were able to borrow and play. Each covered wagon also has its own deck with a table and chairs and grill. This is perfect to enjoy the nearby creek and quiet of the campground. We loved this aspect of the KOA. Granted, we went during the week so it wasn’t as busy but the property is a little slice of paradise in Northern Greenville County, tucked away for its guests to enjoy.
Everything was totally clean and inviting, from the wagons themselves to the grounds of the campground.
All the wagons have heat and air conditioning. As of this writing, the price for one night in a wagon is around $145.
The wagons are not outfitted with individual bathrooms so you will have to take a little walk to get to them, about three minutes away on the gravel road.
The bathhouse is really nice! There are three separate stalls that each have a bathroom and shower. They lock individually so you have total privacy. There’s also an outdoor sink for washing dishes or brushing your teeth.
Be sure to bring your own towels.
The KOA in Travelers Rest is at the perfect location for dining and adventure. There are lots of great restaurants nearby plus trails upon trails upon trails.
About five minutes from the Travelers Rest KOA on Hwy 25 is Williams Pit Stop, where you’ll be greeted by traditional Southern charm and a very affordable menu of Mike & Jeffs BBQ and loaded hot dogs. Don’t miss this gem.
2001 Highway 25, Travelers Rest
Located in downtown Travelers Rest, Tandem is known for their incredible sweet and savory crepes. This is the perfect way to start your day.
2 S Main Street, Travelers Rest
Readers will recognize this place as it’s one of our favorites! Owner Kristen is such a gem and works so hard to make the cafe a place of welcome and creativity. You can get breakfast, lunch, and coffee here alongside a serving of art!
27 S Main Street, Travelers Rest
If your kid loves trains, this is the place to take them. You can’t miss it as they have a giant mural of a train on the side of the restaurant, which serves up typical American cuisine of burgers and sandwiches.
109 Main Street, Travelers Rest
Open seasonally, Aunt Sue’s is a good place to stop after a hike to eat some ice cream and shop at the little general store for candles and other homemade goodies. There’s also a restaurant there serving up a buffet lunch or dinner.
107 Country Creek Dr A, Pickens
Also located in downtown Travelers Rest, TR Makers Co. is the perfect place to shop for local goods as well as try your own hand at making some art. They have an array of different classes and it’s a fun spot to visit.
2 S Main Street, Travelers Rest
Hike the two-mile, kid-friendly Carrick Creek trail for beautiful creek crossings and waterfalls or test your endurance on the strenuous 7.5 mile Table Rock Summit Trail. Or just take a walk around the lake for incredible views of Table Rock, go for a swim at the beach, or picnic by the playground. You can’t go wrong spending a day at Table Rock State Park.
158 Ellison Lane, Pickens
Did you know there’s a tea farm in the Upstate? It’s the only one and they give tours of the farm, which are incredibly fascinating – plus their tea is really good.
118 High Hills Lane, Pickens
Another SC State Park that you can’t miss. For the best views of Table Rock, go to Caesars Head. You can also see the hawks migrating there during September. There’s also beautiful hikes – Raven Cliff Falls, Frank Coggins Trail, and the aptly named Dismal Trail.
8155 Geer Highway, Cleveland
Another gem of a park in the Upstate, Jones Gap boasts stunning hiking trails, especially the most popular one to Rainbow Falls. It’s a tough four-mile trek but well worth the effort. Be sure to make reservations for parking on weekends.
303 Jones Gap Road, Marietta
Head to the Upstate’s last covered bridge at Campbell’s Covered Bridge in Landrum. It’s a pretty spot for leaf peeping and creek stomping.
171 Campbell Covered Bridge Road, Landrum
There are a lot of reasons why we really enjoyed our stay: the management, the cool accommodations, the peace and quiet- but I think one of the best things was the time I got to spend with my kids where we didn’t need to put a lot of miles on the car and drive far.
It was so, so easy to come to the KOA in Travelers Rest and feel a world away from our everyday lives. It’s such a great local getaway and one that really works for families who want to do something fun but who aren’t sure yet of a bigger trip or who maybe just don’t have the time to drive hours each way for a short getaway. Kids will absolutely love this place and there is plenty of space for them to run around and play and enjoy the outdoors.
And I was so impressed with Terri and Bill as managers. It was plainly obvious how much they loved their work at the campground and how much they wanted to make it a special place for families or anyone looking to get outside and enjoy nature.
To book your own covered wagon, you can call the campground at 864.834.8150 or reserve online.
Travelers Rest KOA2400 US-25, Travelers Rest, SC864.834.8150
864-580-3470
