Pretty Place Chapel Sunrise Experience: Spiritual Serenity in SC

Description

Pretty Place Chapel, officially known as Fred W. Symmes Chapel, is a unique mountain-top venue at YMCA Camp Greenville. This open-air sanctuary, built in 1941 and renovated in 2012 and 2018, offers visitors the opportunity to witness spectacular sunrises and panoramic views of the South Carolina mountains. Open to the public when not reserved for events, it's an ideal spot for reflection and connection with nature. The chapel, with its striking stone cross and rugged outdoor pews, hosts regular sunrise services and weddings, making it a memorable locale for both spiritual and celebratory occasions. Visitors are encouraged to check the chapel’s schedule to ensure access, as the serene spot is popular for private events.

Itinerary

Check the online schedule for public access hours before your visit.
Arrive early to experience the sunrise; the chapel opens at sunrise but hours may vary.
Spend time in reflection or take photographs from various viewpoints around the chapel.
Respect the serene and sacred nature of the chapel during your visit.

4.8 ● Google reviews

Kristin

4 months ago

We visited on a Friday around 8:30 and the drive was very steep and silly as promised. I get car sickness but since I was driving I had no problems at all. Upon reaching the first gate there was a propped up sign in the middle of the road saying the chapel was closed. However, I knew it wasn't and the big board to the left that showed the opening times for the day agreed with me. So we drove around the closed sign and went up anyway. There were at least 15 other people up there in the chapel and more came after us. So im not sure what happened there. It was breathtaking. Pictures do not even do it justice. What an amazing spot to feel gods presence! Highly recommended. Parking was plentiful when we went and easy in and out. There are porta potties if needed. There is also a handicapped ramp to get into the church if needed.
TNTaraTheTraveler!

5 months ago

Breathtaking Experience! Even the most beautiful pictures do NOT do this justice! And it’s free to the public! This should be seen by all! As I arrived just walking thru the entrance of the chapel was special and beautiful! And as you near the cross… there just are no words! Although it’s free there are donation boxes and you’ll be more than happy to donate to this cause! There were a lot of people that day but all were considerate of each other taking pics. Check the schedule before going up as they do close for events.
Hannah Petersen

6 months ago

I photograph lots of surprise proposals here at pretty place and it’s always so beautiful. Sunrise can be a bit busy but I recommend seeing a sunrise here at least once in your life. Pretty place is always beautiful rain or shine. Always check the website to make sure they are open before making the trip here it does get booked quickly for weddings/bookings.
X D

4 months ago

Beautiful place to visit with an amazing view. Unfortunately it can be ruined by the amount of people (especially “influencers”)trying to take pictures and standing around talking. Definitely recommend coming early in the morning before 10 AM. Overall though it’s a nice place to visit at least once.
Tawnya Ouderkirk

5 months ago

It was amazing! The grounds keeper/ security employee Michael was great! He couldn’t have been more helpful! We had drove 16 or so hours just to see this place and well we wouldn’t have seen it if it wasn’t for him. Thank u Michael for letting us experience this amazing place

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