Downtown Seneca: Where to Go and What to Do
Located in the heart of Seneca, South Carolina is Seneca’s Main Street. Although it isn’t called Main Street, but instead is referred to as Ram Cat Alley. This is the cutest street, it has one of my favorite stores that I rave about all the time and my favorite restaurant that I’ve loved since living in South Carolina, Vangeli’s. This street is full of character and feels like you are in a Hallmark movie.
Ram Cat Alley is known for its Thursday night jazz on the Alley, but my favorite event was the Christmas event. It’s called the Magical Musical Holiday Lightshow where they have hot chocolate, funnel cake, lights, and a huge Christmas tree. Nothing is more Hallmark than that.
I am not here just to rave about the charm and character of my favorite street. Downtown Seneca is in the process of revitalizing and there is a need and opportunity for new stores…perhaps one day (hopefully soon) it can house B Lakeside’s future shop.
Ram Cat Alley: Parking and Businesses
Parking isn’t difficult as there is a huge parking lot at the end of the road and oftentimes it’s easy to find street parking outside your favorite shops (unless there is an event). Ram Cat Alley is a good-sized street and I like to look at it as split into 3 blocks or sections.
The first section contains the cutest shops, and the best (formal) restaurant, and is full of charm.
The second section is what I like to consider an opportunity for revitalization as construction is taking place along this section of Ram Cat Alley. This is a spot for potential as the town and area start to grow.
I would consider Keowee Brewing and G’s Pizza at the end of the third section and both of these are a must-visit.
Restaurants and Food on Ram Cat Alley in Seneca, South Carolina
Vangeli’s is hands down the BEST restaurant that is on the nicer side. If you are craving pizza, G’s Pizza House is a great place to go.
The Spot is a sports pub that is always crowded, food is consistent, and as long as you aren’t expecting a fancy atmosphere it doesn’t disappoint.
My favorite casual place to have a drink and chat with friends is Keowee Brewing. First, the building is stunning, they did a great job transforming the building into a welcoming atmosphere. The restaurant is family-friendly (yes the brewhouse is family-friendly). They often have Trivia or live music and have different deals during the week. It is a MUST visit for the whole family (you can even bring your dog outside).
Hogs and Hops is a BBQ stand and has this fun outdoor vibe, that often attracts a casual crowd hanging outside on the green. I haven’t personally tried their food- but it always smells like great BBQ. This is somewhere I would go after a day on the lake in a T-shirt and shorts with lake hair. The outdoor vibe is perfect for a summer night.
After grabbing dinner if you are in the mood for a sweet treat, Cardamom Bakeshop is the bakery in town. They offer treats and custom cakes which are amazing. We ordered a cake for an event for my daughter, which turned out beautiful. The staff is so kind and helps you choose exactly what you want.
Shopping on Ram Cat Alley, Downtown Seneca Main Street
Now let’s hit on the shopping available- and I am going to be real, it’s either going to be your thing or it’s a complete miss.
Starting with my favorite shop, The Tannery. It’s a mix of vendors who bring antiques and new items together to create these beautifully curated setups. This shop is a great place if you are looking for a unique piece of home decor for your house or a gift for a friend. There is everything from antiques to clothing, jewelry, and home decor- it’s a big ol’ hodgepodge but somehow it is curated and looks stunning.
Next up, is The Red Door and Green Springs. To enter The Red Door, you have to go through the Green Springs. The Green Springs is a shop full of various artists with homemade items, such as ceramics and soaps with an emphasis on Lake Life trinkets and decor. The Green Springs prides itself on being a handmade shop full of US creators but also highlights creators from other “free trade” shops. Once you get to The Red Door, it is a shop made for children with plush animals and other trinkets.
Ram Cat Alley also has a wedding shop, but truthfully I have never seen anyone in it- I believe it’s by appointment only. The dresses look gorgeous and my little girl loves to window shop here.
Another fun shop is the First Chapter Bookshop. The last time I walked by there were people just sitting and reading, such a hallmark moment. The shop is filled with new and used books, puzzles, and other gifts. The owner of the shop loves to chat with the customers about their latest reads and what books they love as the community feel is huge in Seneca.
Entertainment on Ram Cat Alley
The Wild Child is a newish business downtown and has an indoor play space. While I haven’t been inside as my kids have outgrown this option, the outside is beyond fun and inviting. This is a must-visit if you have younger kids.
Seneca knows how to bring people together, regardless of the season, this street is often full of entertainment from Jazz on the Alley to the Christmas celebration or an art show.
Ram Cat Alley in Seneca, South Carolina
Seneca Ram Cat Alley is so charming and worth a visit. I have this hunch it is about to explode with new shops and restaurants. The city is currently investing a lot of money into the downtown main street area and these historical buildings are beginning to see a facelift. This investment is creating a vibrant atmosphere, attracting both locals and visitors who appreciate the blend of antique charm and modern amenities. Don’t miss out on experiencing the magic of Ram Cat Alley as it transforms into the lively heart of Seneca.
