Tourism industry, 50 Most Influential people featured in latest SCBIZ Magazine

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As a relatively new resident of South Carolina’s Upstate (I’m going to that well as long as I can) I feel like I’m on a bit of a vacation. Only if it wasn’t for these pesky deadlines.

Tourism is a huge draw for The Palmetto State. So is the resulting economic impact, estimated at $29 billion annually. As the focus of this issue of SCBIZ Magazine, you’ll find features inside on the Upstate’s burgeoning appeal, Lake Murray riding the wave of tourism momentum and the impact of the annual Cooper River Bridge Run. Not to mention an Industry Perspective from Duane Parrish, director of the South Carolina Department of Parks, Recreation & Tourism and a 5 Questions With feature on Beth Paul, general manager of Bon Secours Wellness Arena, celebrating its 25^th anniversary this year.

Click here to access the online version of SCBIZ Magazine.

One of my favorite things to do is hop on my bike at Unity Park — a used roadbike was one of my first purchases after I moved to Greenville —and pedal up the Swamp Rabbit Trail to Travelers Rest. There I’ll stop at The Community Tap or Swamp Rabbit Brewery & Taproom for a cold one.

Why stop there? How about a pulled pork sandwich at Money Wrench Smokehouse? OK, twist my arm.

On my way back to Greenville I might just have to stop at the Swamp Rabbit Café for a smoothie and some stecca bread.

If it’s a family outing along the trail replace the brew stops for a picnic at Swan Lake on the campus of Furman University. (We try to resist feeding the geese and turtles).

Another favorite family trip is heading over to Cartright Food Hall in downtown Greer, and then strolling beneath the criss-cross lights along Trade Street with full bellies.

We also recently discovered the crystal-clear waters of Lake Jocassee as we paddled our kayaks while taking in the natural beauty of Pickens and Oconee Counties.

It’s also a very special issue of SCBIZ Mag. Inside we recognize our inaugural class of 50 Most Influential honorees, as well as featuring a special section on the annual InnoVision Awards winners.

Now, back to my vacation…

Jason Thomas is the executive editor of SC Biz Magazine. Reach him via email at [email protected].