Cancer Survivors Park: Greenville, SC

If you’ve been on the Swamp Rabbit Trail recently, you may have stumbled upon the Cancer Survivors Park in Greenville, SC. This awesome park includes beautiful gardens, an amazing sculpture, and more.

Parks and playgrounds near Greenville, South Carolina

Here’s your ultimate guide to all the parks near Greenville, SC!

Have you met a person who has not been touched by cancer? Cancer is all around us, and even the word triggers feelings of fear and sadness in many of us. Maybe you are like Tom Bates, who lost his daughter, Lindsey Motley, at 29 to colon cancer. He is the president of the board for the new Cancer Survivors Park. What used to be a narrow, grated bridge connecting Cleveland Park to Falls Park is now a large park filled with waterfalls, gardens, walkways, and art.

Cancer Survivors Park in downtown Greenville on the Swamp Rabbit Trail

About Cancer Survivors Park

The Cancer Survivors Park is providing hope and tranquility amid the darkness of this disease. You will find hope as you walk underneath the butterflies welcoming you to the park. You may have noticed more butterflies around Greenville. Each of these butterflies is a “Butterfly Keeper” paid for by private donors to support the Cancer Survivors Park and designed by Yuri Tsuzuki.

Another picture of hope and the focal point of the park is the amazing Celebration Pavilion. You can see it from Church Street or Cleveland Street without even getting out of your car. Standing under it will allow you a panoramic view of the entire park.

How can you not find tranquility as you walk past the man-made waterfall and enjoy the rushing of the Reedy River throughout the park! Once you cross the Spirit Bridge, you can go to your left and walk down through the Healing Garden to the Reedy River and let the sound of the river wash over you.

When you cross the bridge and go to your right, you will come to the Children’s Garden. A life-size sculpture called Fear Not by Charles Pate Jr. shows a lion comforting a child. It is a warm symbol of the strength a child receives going through cancer.

Cancer Survivor Park on the Swamp Rabbit Trail in Greenville

Where you’ll find Cancer Survivors Park

The main parking area of the park is off Cleveland Street. You can also access the park by parking in Cleveland Park and walking up the Swamp Rabbit Trail towards Fall Park. Another parking option is at the Next building on Church Street. This is a fun entrance as you walk the Boardwalk that weaves down through the woods, past two overlooks, and brings you out at the Turning Point Plaza of the park.

Come visit this park as soon as you can! Your children will love the walkways and water, and you can take some very deep breaths.

Cancer Survivors Park
52 Cleveland St, Greenville
864.255.5010

Cancer Survivors Park along the Swamp Rabbit Trail in Greenville

Have you visited Cancer Survivors Park yet? If so, what part did you like the most?

10+ Free Dates Near Greenville, SC to Try This Summer (2026)

Looking for a free date night near Greenville, SC?
Budget dates in Greenville are totally possible. We get that parents don’t always have the money for extravagant date nights, but still want to get away and reconnect away from the kids. You don’t need a lot of money to do that! In fact, there are lots of dates that are totally free.

If you can find a friend, grandparent, or other family member to watch the kids, you don’t even have to pay for a sitter.

Questions About Free Date Nights Near Greenville, SC

What are some free date ideas in Greenville, SC?
Some of the best free date ideas near Greenville include visiting Falls Park, hiking local trails, attending outdoor movies or concerts, touring murals, exploring gardens, and walking through art galleries during First Fridays.

Are there free outdoor activities for couples near Greenville?
Yes! Couples can enjoy free outdoor activities like hiking, biking the Swamp Rabbit Trail, swimming at natural swimming holes, visiting waterfalls, strolling through gardens, or watching Shakespeare in Falls Park during the summer.

Where can couples go for a cheap or free date night near Greenville?
Greenville offers plenty of budget-friendly date night options including free concerts, museum visits, mini golf at McPherson Park, volunteer opportunities, and scenic parks perfect for a picnic or sunset walk.

Free Summer Date Ideas Near Greenville, SC

Go Swimming

Grab your bathing suit, towel, and map and head out to any one of these natural swimming holes for a few hours away. Soak up the sun, and enjoy the cool mountain waters that surround Greenville.

Sliding Rock Falls, Cashiers, NC — Sliding Rock in Cashiers, NC

Help Others

Volunteering is a great way to learn how to be grateful for what we have, and who we have in our lives. By volunteering together as a couple, you can enjoy a shared experience that will not only bring you closer but positively touch the lives of others. Here are several places to volunteer in the area.

Go Miniature Golfing

You can mini-golf for free at McPherson Park in Greenville. Just bring your own putter and balls (we’ve seen them for cheap at local thrift shops).

McPherson Park Greenville, SC mini golf — McPherson Park

See an Outdoor Movie

Greenville has lot of places to see free movies outside during the summer. Bring a blanket and food, and enjoy the big screen.

Bike Around Town

If you have a bike, use it. There are many trails in the area where you can ride your bikes together, and they’re all free.

Stroll Through a Garden

Take a short trip up to Hendersonville, NC, and visit the Fairy Trail at Bullington Gardens. Or, head to the SC Botanical Gardens in Clemson. They’re beautiful and a wonderful place to walk together. For a more local option, visit Hatcher Gardens in Spartanburg.

Hatcher Gardens — Hatcher Garden in Spartanburg, SC

Be a Tourist

Falls Park in Greenville is probably the most iconic and recognizable part of town. There are plenty of benches and swings and trails in the park to enjoy during a stroll. Take the time to check it all out, just like the tourists do. Bring a picnic and extend that date a bit longer.

Tour Local Murals

Love art? Take a driving tour of local murals around town. Kick it up a notch with your significant other, and bring along some snacks and/or chocolate.

Enjoy a Free Concert

Live music is back! Several local venues offer free concerts over the summer.

Learn About History

I personally love history, and strolling through a battlefield is actually my idea of an interesting time. If you and your date are history buffs, try the Kings Mountain Battlefield Trail, a 1.5-mile paved path that takes you through the Revolutionary War battle on October 7, 1780.

Get Cultured

First Fridays in Greenville are all about art. You can tour area art galleries for free, and many places serve complimentary adult beverages. Win-win. And the Greenville County Museum of Art houses some amazing exhibits/ Admission is free.

Take a Hike

There is no shortage of hiking trails in and near the Upstate, including several with waterfalls and swimming holes. They’re perfect for summer. Lots of parks in the area are free to enter, so grab your partner, a picnic lunch, and water, and have an adventure together.

One of Maria’s favorites is Catawba Falls near Black Mountain, NC.

Learn About History

The annual Chautauqua Festival features historical figures telling their stories in front of a live audience. It’s a popular and fun way to experience history, all for free. The festival is in June and features over 25 live shows.

Enjoy Some Shakespeare

From May 21 – July 25, 2026, you can check out the free Upstate Shakespeare Festival in Falls Park. Shows begin at 7:00 pm and run Thursday through Sunday each week. Arrive early to get a spot!

Go Dancing

During the summer months you can do Salsa at Sunset at Camperdown Plaza features beginner-friendly salsa lessons, live Latin music, and a fun, welcoming atmosphere that makes it easy to step out of your routine and onto the dance floor. Whether you’re seasoned dancers or just looking to laugh and learn something new together, this lively evening is a great way to connect while enjoying Greenville’s summer vibes.

Do you have a free date night idea to add to our list?

Looking for even more date night ideas?

Here’s your ultimate date night guide to Greenville, SC.

Greenville Drive Celebrates 21 Years of Family Fun at Fluor Field

Summer is here, and Greenville Drive Baseball at Fluor Field, one of the most adored minor league baseball teams in SC, is in full swing. Fun and excitement are on the docket for every Drive game, including Saturdays on the District, Theme Nights, Friday Fireworks, new merchandise, and so much more.

We’ve got all the details right here in one easy-to-find spot, including the full season schedule. Go ahead, check it out, and plan your Greenville Drive summer! Thank you to Greenville Drive for sponsoring this article.

Experiences: Greenville Drive

Parent Tips

Fluor Field Family Events

2026 Greenville Drive Schedule

Greenville Drive Creates An Experience Everyone Loves

Fluor Field’s North End entrance is full of excitement with its Greenville Drive marquee sign and brick and stone paved plaza. Add in the giant baseballs all in a row, and you have an attractive and fun spot for kids to climb and families to take photos!

In the middle of all this and seemingly right at home is the statue of “Shoeless” Joe Jackson. Did you know that before Jackson became a famous ballplayer, he was a mill worker at Brandon Mills in West Greenville?

With his connection to Greenville’s past, the “Shoeless” Joe’s statue location highlights the city’s mill town past and memories of old textile baseball leagues. Ball games were already a popular form of recreation and community building, even back then.

Fluor Field’s East End entrance on Augusta Street offers the opportunity to sit by the bar or at picnic tables and enjoy a great view of the action behind first base.

Friday Night Fireworks

Every Friday at Fluor Field is Friday Night Fireworks! Fans are welcome to stay after the game to enjoy a spectacular fireworks show!

Bark in the Park

During Park in the Park games, fans are encouraged to bring their pups to the ballpark to enjoy the game and lots of prizes and treats! If you’re lucky, your kids & dogs may even get the chance to run the bases! We’re told this is one of Greenville Drive’s favorite Sunday afternoon traditions.

Reading All-Stars

Kids LOVE this one! They read their favorite books and the Greenville Drive rewards them!

The Reading All-Stars program is a reading incentive challenge for any K5-8th grade student aimed at promoting reading and academic success across the Upstate. Students are challenged to read 5 reading-level-appropriate books (Elementary Schools) or 500 pages (Middle Schools) in a 5-week time period to qualify as a Reading All-Star.

Over 1,400,000 students have participated in our program, and nearly 415,000 students have qualified as Reading All-Stars!

Saturdays on the District

Every Saturday Drive home game, District 356 transforms into a party for the whole family! Enjoy inflatable games, live music performances, face painting, balloon artists, food and beverage stations from local favorites and, of course, shopping from the Drive team store. Everyone loves Saturdays on the District!

See Why We Love the FREE Family Fun Pregame at Saturdays on the District

Greenville Drive Team Store

Once you arrive, you can find will-call ticket booths alongside the Greenville Drive team store. Rolling barn doors offer more browsing space for souvenir shopping. Here’s a little trivia for you: did you know the store used to be a 1920s firehouse? Stop in and make sure to look up at the original tin ceilings!

Front Porch Lounge

Fluor Field has often been referred to as downtown’s “front porch.” As a nod to this, the Drive features their Front Porch lounge, a 2,700-square-foot hospitality area for Drive Ticket Plan holders. The lounge offers comfortable indoor seating, a full-service bar, flat-screen televisions and other fun ballpark perks.

The Rooftop and Champion Lounge

One thing for sure, if you are catching a game, you can’t help but glance across the field and admire the Rooftop wondering, “How did the people get up there?” The Rooftop space is an events venue atop the adjacent Fieldhouse building with its own express elevator. This area can accommodate up to 75 people, providing picturesque views of the ballpark and downtown Greenville.

The Rooftop even has a private food and beverage menu. Another venue is the Champions Club. The Club offers over 3,700 square feet of space; accommodating groups of 100-300 people. The space is air-conditioned and even has outdoor seating, making a great location for events year-round events.

5 Tips for Visiting the Greenville Drive With Kids

1. Check for Promotions

It happened to be “Bark in the Park” during our visit, which worked out perfectly for our family! All the dogs were on leashes and very friendly. This not only provided a good distraction for our 22 month old, but we enjoyed seeing all the furry friends as well. If you have allergies or a child with a fear of dogs, this would not be a great game for you to attend. Always check the game & promotions schedule in advance.

2. Take Advantage of FREE Trolley Rides from your Parking Lot

Park at one of the parking lots near a trolley pick-up location (there are a bunch along Pendleton Street), low-cost City Parking garages and paved lots located on or near River Street. The trolleys run every 10 minutes before and after the game and every 15 minutes during the game. BONUS: the Trolley runs throughout the entire game! Whenever you’re ready to head home, just leave the field and catch a ride back to your car.

3. Bring Only What You Need

Make sure to review the Greenville Drive’s bag policy closely before heading to the stadium. Gone are the days of being able to walk right in with a diaper bag stuffed with everything!

4. Be Aware in the Play Area

With good intentions, the rules state that children should be under a certain height and should be supervised while playing. Stick close by your little one if they need a play break…this is not an area I would advise to just sit and watch.

5. Get Tickets in Advance

The Sunday we went also happened to be Masters Sunday so the crowd was a little lighter than usual. My husband went back on a Friday (fireworks) night with his brother and the game was sold out! Standing room only!

Family Friendly Year-Round Events at Fluor Field

Fluor Field has made a name for itself that is much more than baseball, thanks to West End Events at Fluor Field. There are events throughout the year and a bunch that are family-friendly. Here is a list of the more popular events to check out!

Easter Eggstravaganza: Every spring you can watch your kid race across the field collecting as many eggs as their little basket can hold. There is typically a picnic, pictures with the Easter Bunny, and tons of kid-friendly activities to enjoy.
Fluor Field Freedom Fest: This Independence Day, you can watch fireworks in celebration of our nation’s biggest celebratory holiday. There will be inflatables, a kids zone, and a screening of The Sandlot at this year’s celebration on July 4th, 2026 and it’s FREE (no baseball this year)
Reading All Stars: If your kid participates in a summer reading program through their local library, chances are they will receive a ticket to the Reading All Stars game with Greenville Drive.
The Green Monster Mash: Enjoy kid-friendly Halloween activities, including inflatables, face paintings, costume contests, and more during this annual event.

2026 Greenville Drive Home Game Schedule at Fluor Field

To view the full schedule, promotional nights, and to purchase tickets, visit milb.com/greenville. Game times are Tuesday-Saturday at 6:45 PM and Sunday at 3:05 PM, unless otherwise noted.

Let’s Go!

milb.com/greenville

Fluor Field
945 South Main Street, Greenville, SC 29601

864.240.4528

Looking for more fun things to do near Greenville, SC? We’ve rounded up the best options for you

Places Where You Can Salsa Dance in Greenville, SC

Did you know that you could take free lessons in Salsa dancing in Greenville, SC. Local mom Kristina shares her favorite places to Salsa dance in Greenville, the perfect romantic date night.

Salsa dancing is quite close to my heart, and it’s pretty awesome that we can do it in Greenville, SC! Despite my current last name, I have zero Latin blood in me; rather, I’m the typical American mix of European ancestry, one that arguably isn’t known for its superb dancing styles.

So when I had the chance to take salsa dancing lessons back when I lived near Washington, DC, I jumped at the opportunity. I had seen a beautiful couple at the bar/restaurant where the lessons occurred, twirling, laughing, and swaying their hips with the Latin beats. I wanted to be that girl, and I wanted to learn how to dance like that.

And I did.

Salsa dancing at Salsa at Sunset in Downtown Greenville, South Carolina — Salsa dancing at Camperdown Plaza

This was before marriage and kids, so I had time to go several times a week to lessons and dancing. But I got more out of it than I ever expected. I met my husband during one of those early classes. He had been taking lessons for a few months and easily impressed me. We went dancing together for nearly three years before we started dating and then got married.

We don’t go as often as we’d like to now, but when I heard about dancing salsa in the plaza at the Peace Center last summer, I got a babysitter and made plans to go. After all, when does the chance come up to dance at sunset? Not often enough.

Salsa at Sunset Event in Greenville

On select Fridays throughout the summer, Upstate International hosts the amazing Salsa at Sunset event at Camperdown Plaza in downtown Greenville. It’s a free outdoor event that features free group salsa lessons, a live band that plays salsa, merengue, and bachata (other Latin dance styles), and a beer and wine cash bar.

The event is family-friendly as well. We saw lots of kids there getting their groove on. There were dancers of every age and ability.

All of the events are from 6 pm to 10 pm and include free dance lessons and lots of dancing. The free dance lessons start around 6:15, so we recommend them if you want to learn before taking the dance floor.

Upcoming Salsa at Sunset Events

Salsa at Sunset – May 22, 2026 | 6:15-10 pm | Camperdown Plaza, 20 E Broad St, Greenville | Free
Salsa at Sunset – June 26, 2026 | 6:15-10 pm | Camperdown Plaza, 20 E Broad St, Greenville | Free
Salsa at Sunset – July 24, 2026 | 6:15-10 pm | Camperdown Plaza, 20 E Broad St, Greenville | Free
Salsa at Sunset – August 28, 2026 | 6:15-10 pm | Camperdown Plaza, 20 E Broad St, Greenville | Free

In my experience of Latin dancing, it really doesn’t matter your age or ability or anything else you’re nervous about, and that may be holding you back. Everyone just wants to have fun.

Dancing is a great equalizer. Most dancers are patient and eager to teach and learn. Dancing is a wonderful activity to let your body take over and move with the music, and give your brain a break from doing any thinking. It’s relaxing and a great date activity.

Other Places for Salsa Dancing: Greenville, SC

Greenville has an active little salsa dancing community.

Salsa Greenville regularly hosts salsa dancing events at local clubs and organizations. Many of these events come along with fun themes, like Bachata Under the Stars and Pasion Thursdays. Social Latitude regularly hosts events with Salsa Greenville called during their Latin Dance Nights.

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A post shared by Susan Zaglin (@salsagreenville)

What to Wear and Other Questions

For women, a shoe with a smooth bottom and a heel not more than two inches is preferable (tennis shoes aren’t the best because they stick to the floor, but I’ve seen women wear them and do fine). At Salsa at Sunset, I usually just use sneakers, and it’s fine.

Dresses are enjoyable to wear, but just be sure they either don’t fly all the way up when you spin or wear shorts underneath. Be comfortable because you’ll be moving around a lot.

For men, shoes with smooth bottoms are ideal as well. And just dress comfortably.

You don’t need a partner for lessons. You rotate around and get to dance with everyone there, so it’s not necessary to come with anyone.

Give it a shot – you may just love it.

Have you ever tried salsa dancing?

For more date night ideas, see our full Date Night Guide to Greenville, SC.

Ride An Indoor Ferris Wheel and Carousel at Kangaroo Jax

You know those days when you are awakened by your kids at the crack of dawn and it’s raining or it’s too hot or too cold outside and there is just no way you are dealing with energetic little people in your house all day? Kangaroo Jax, an indoor bounce house complete with a ferris wheel, carousel, arcade games, and concessions can help you out. Read on to learn all about this new, indoor play place your kids will love!

Here are 50+ things to do near Greenville, SC if you need more ideas!

About Kangaroo Jax

I first heard of Kangaroo Jax through a friend and honestly did not believe it to be as cool as she said. Kids can bounce around for as many hours as they like for one admission fee? And they can ride a carousel and ferris wheel for no extra charge?

This place does exist, and it’s as neat as you’ve probably heard. Not only do they have an enormous space filled with things to help your kid get out energy, but they also do birthday parties!

Kangaroo Jax indoor bounce house Greenville

Admission Pricing

Monday through Friday, kids 2-12 are $14 each, and Saturday and Sunday $18 each. There is no limit to how long your child can play. Kids up to 12 years old are welcome to play at Kangaroo Jax.

But what about the little kids? During the week, children ages 2-5 can play for just $9 from 10 am – 2 pm.

What about kids under the age of two? Can they come? Yes! There is actually an entire space at Kangaroo Jax dedicated to kids under four years old. As a parent of a child in this age range, I love this feature because it helps my peace of mind to know that no big kids will accidentally be knocking around my little one.

Kids under 1 are free with another paying child. If you don’t have another paying child, or if you have multiple children under 1 years old, you’ll have to pay $9 for at least one child.

Birthday Parties

A good birthday party is one where parents have little to no work to do and kids have all the fun. That’s the secret sauce at Kangaroo Jax. They do everything for parents, from setting up the room with balloons and table settings to ordering and serving the food, which comes with the Mega Party and Ultimate Party packages.

Jax’s Birthday Parties includes 10 guests, 1 hour and 45 minutes of party room use, online invitations, paper goods and balloons, 2 pizza slices, and a soda or juice per paying child.

The Jax’s Mega Party includes all of the above in addition to two slices of pizza plus one soft drink per child and is this party package is $359 Friday – Sunday and $269 Monday – Thursday.

The Jax’s Ultimate Party includes all of the above plus party favors. This party is $399 Friday – Sunday and $290 Monday – Thursday.

Parents can add more than 10 children for a party to each package for an additional fee. If they want more pizza or extra balloons or extra drink pitchers, those options are available as well.

Parents can also bring your own birthday cake/cupcakes, your own goodie bags, fruit or veggie trays, individual bags of chips/pretzels, and additional decorations. No other outside food or drink is permitted. When the party is over, all of the guests are able to play on the main floor until closing time.

It’s recommended you book your date ahead of time, especially on weekends, since they tend to fill up fast.

Tips When You Go

I took my kids to Kangaroo Jax on a big school holiday, so there were a lot of kids, but it never felt too crowded or overwhelming since the place is huge and there are lots of things to do. I love that this place is open on most school holidays and breaks (and even snow days) and all summer when the kids are out of school. It has gone straight to the top of my “things to do with kids” list.

One thing to note is that your kids will need socks, so be sure to bring them or have an extra pair or two in your car.

Also, fill out your waiver online to save time so when you get to Kangaroo Jax you won’t have anxious kids waiting to play!

Kangaroo Jax has concessions including pizza, pretzels, and even coffee, which makes it pretty easy to spend a good chunk of time there. The owners were insightful about the needs of families when they designed the place.

So when you need a break and the kids need a place to get out their enormous supply of energy, try Kangaroo Jax!

Kangaroo Jax
2437 Laurens Road, Greenville
Monday-Thursday: 10 am – 6 pm
Friday-Saturday: 10 am – 8 pm
Sunday: 11 am – 6 pm
864.902.5297

What’s your child’s favorite thing to do at Kangaroo Jax?

Westside Park Offers an Indoor Pool, Playground and More

Passing between Greenville and Easley? Then you might want to make a stop at Westside Park! KAG Contributor Lindy Wilson tells us below about Westside Park, which features a wide variety of different amenities. One of the most notable of those is the indoor pool at the Westside Aquatic Complex.

Here are the best parks and playgrounds near Greenville, SC!

A Little About Westside Park

The playground at this park is right next to the pool building. So, it’s easy to explore upon arriving or leaving (but it’s tucked around the corner enough that you can sneak past if need be). We played there A LOT when we were taking swim lessons!

They do birthday pool parties in the aquatic center if you’re interested. They also teach swim lessons throughout the year and offer sailing lessons. Older kids can join their swim team. Unique to this pool is the Fun Zone inflatable play area floating in the water! There is also a small gym offering group exercise classes.

Beyond the pool/gym complex and the playground, there are also some baseball fields and other grassy areas for a pick-up game. If you have an event coming up, you can rent out their shelters as well. Be sure to check it out!

The Playground at Westside Park

If your day can only accommodate adventures on dry land, there is a rather well-equipped playground. Their playground has some nice shade trees and a few bench tables right along the edge. It makes for a good picnic spot while still being in sight of the kids. The playground is fairly large. So, this is very important!

There are some nice swings here, which always seem to be a treat – more swings than your typical playground has so everyone can have one! They also seem like the higher type especially good for big kids who want to propel themselves into outer space!

If you have a climber, they’ll love it. A wide range of things to hang off and climb on abound. It’s way beyond your everyday monkey bars here!

Plan your own trip to Westside Park

2700 W. Blue Ridge Drive, Greenville
Amenities include an aquatic complex, athletic fields, playground, picnic shelter

Read even more articles about great parks!

Have you ever visited Westside Park?

Timmons Park Greenville SC – Birds, Trails, Playgrounds & Pickleball

Have you been to Timmons Park?
Are you searching for a park to visit that includes more than just a playground? KAG contributor Deborah gives us the scoop on Timmons Park, a neighborhood park offering way more than a climbing structure and swings.

Discover Timmons Park

“Look! A Hawk!” My boys and I were enjoying a morning at the park when we spotted a hawk in the mature trees around the playground. The large bird of prey was calling to another hawk that we heard in the distance. Then, we saw that second hawk fly into the same tree. Where are we?

Timmons Park is tucked away in the established neighborhood of Overbrook. Within Greenville’s city limits, this park is full of large trees that provide you with ample shady places to rest and listen to the songs of the birds.

Be sure to check out all of these awesome parks and playgrounds near Greenville, SC!

The park has an excellent frisbee golf course. Even if you do not want to play, the trail is a great place to walk your dog, and children love getting to cross the stream on the various bridges. Just watch out for frisbees! Keep your children out of the stream, because we spotted a large snake while we were there.

The playground is a newer model with bridges, rope bridges, slides, and unique climbing structures. There’s a big kid and a toddler section right next to each other—perfect if you have kids who want to play on separate structures at the same time. And while there’s no fence, the playground’s in a secluded area, so there’s not too much traffic. There are some trees providing shade on the outskirts of the playground, which proves great for exploration. Otherwise, expect lots of sun.

Bring a picnic to enjoy in the covered pavilion or at one of the picnic tables dotted throughout the park. You can park in front of the playground, across from the pavilion, or down by the baseball field and restrooms.

There are also 8 pickleball courts at Timmons Park! While the courts can’t be reserved, they are free on a first-come first-serve basis. Here’s some more info on playing pickleball in Greenville, SC!

Where you’ll find Timmons Park

121 Oxford Street, Greenville
Visit the Timmons Park website.

What’s your favorite thing to do while visiting Timmons Park?

Shoeless Joe Jackson Memorial Park: Explore Greenville Baseball History

Have you been to Shoeless Joe Jackson Memorial Park? Located beside the historic Brandon Mill, this special Greenville spot is full of history and it’s also a fun place to play. Check out what’s waiting for you at Shoeless Joe Jackson Memorial Park in Greenville, SC.

The Mill Teams: Where it Began

Shoeless Joe Jackson photo by Charles M. Conlon

When he was 13 years old, Joe Jackson earned a position on the Brandon Mill Baseball team. Historically, these mill teams played a large role in the evolution of baseball at the time.

On Saturday afternoons when the whistles blew, the mill workers would swarm from the workplace to the local baseball fields, where they would practice for their games against mill leagues across Greenville County.

Many communities like Brandon Mill were brought together through their love of the sport, and more than one legendary player emerged from these mill teams, including Joe Jackson, Champ Osteen, and Red Barbary.

Shoeless Joe

Joseph Jefferson Jackson earned the nickname “Shoeless Joe” during a mill game when the blisters from a new pair of cleats resulted in the player taking off his shoes before his turn at bat. Legend goes that as he was rounding third base in his socks a fan yelled out “You shoeless son of a gun, you!” and the resulting nickname stuck through the rest of his career.

In 1919, he was indicted in the Black Sox Scandal in which members of the 1919 Chicago White Sox participated in a conspiracy to fix the World Series. Although he was acquitted in 1921, he was still banned from playing baseball for the remainder of his career. Nevertheless, Shoeless Joe has one of the highest career batting averages in major league history (he hit .408 in 1911), and Babe Ruth is said to have modeled his batting technique after Jackson’s square stance.

The Park Today

The historic Brandon Mill Community on Greenville’s Westside is now home to the 8-acre Shoeless Joe Jackson Memorial Park, the baseball field where Jackson first played baseball. The park is split in two by Brushy Creek, which continues on through Greenville until it empties into the Reedy River in Lake Conestee Nature Park; due to the historic pollution caused by the mills and ongoing hazards from urban runoff, it is not advised to play in the water.

The bridge over the creek at Shoeless Joe Jackson park

Sign explaining water preservation in the area

On one side of the creek is the lighted baseball field with a small parking lot that is open when a game is on.

On the other side of the creek are the playground, picnic shelter and parking.

The two sides are connected by a small bridge on the very backside of the park, and informational placards on the park and Shoeless Joe can be found next to the concessions building on the backside of the baseball diamond.

The Playground

The parking area for the park is right beside the playground. Recently updated, it’s a fun area to play before walking across the bridge to check out the baseball field.

Playground at Shoeless Joe Jackson Memorial Park

More Places To Play, and Spots to Learn About Shoeless Joe Jackson

When you’re park hopping through the Greenville County Parks this summer, make sure to stop by nearby Freetown Community Center and playground for more fun. It’s just 5 blocks away, making it an easy two-base hit!

Greenville is also home to the Shoeless Joe Jackson Museum and Library, Shoeless Joe Jackson Plaza at the gates of Fluor Field (where a life-size bronze statue of Joe stands on a base made of bricks from the old Comiskey Ball Park in Chicago), and the site of Joe Jackson’s grave where visitors leave baseballs, photos, notes, and other mementos.

The playground side of Shoeless Joe Jackson Memorial Park

Have you explored the Shoeless Joe Jackson Memorial Park?

For more reviews of local parks see our Park Guide to Greenville, SC.

5 Best Breakfast Restaurants in Greenville, SC

Are you looking for some new awesome breakfast restaurants in Greenville, SC?

For a tired parent, the prospect of getting out of bed any earlier than absolutely necessary is totally absurd. The only thing that might make it happen is an epic breakfast cooked (and cleaned up) by someone other than you. We get it! That’s why we recently polled Kidding Around Readers to find out what locally owned breakfast places have the power to get you up and dressed in the morning!

Reader Picks for The Best Breakfast in Greenville, SC

1. Stax Omega

The reader favorite this year was Stax Omega! This family-owned restaurant has been around since 1988 and features a very diverse menu. Their breakfast is served all day.

74 Orchard Park Drive, Greenville

Fresh squeezed orange juice and country fried steak is the best!

Jackie D.

2. Biscuit Head

Another regular to this list (and bumping up a few spots this year) is one of Downtown Greenville favorite breakfast spots, Biscuit Head. Husband and wife Jason and Carolyn Roy opened Biscuit Head with a focus on reduced carbon footprint and locally sourced food. With seven scratch-made gravies and a jam bar with over 20 butter, jam, kinds of honey, and hot sauces; there is something for everyone.

823 S Church Street, Suite C, Greenville
In addition to the Greenville location, Biscuit Head also has three locations in Asheville, North Carolina.

Biscuit head bc of their amazing gluten free biscuits and their jam bar.

Stephanie M.

3. Tandem Creperie

Tandem Creperie remains in our Top 5 Breakfasts in Greenville again this year. Their sweet and savory crepes and house-made granola are favorites. Tandem Creperie prides itself in sourcing local items, and that includes the coffee, tea, and kombucha they serve.

2 South Main Street, Travelers Rest

When you want a culinary experience for breakfast!

Terry S.

Check this out if you want to learn more about where Some Of The Upstate’s Best Bagels Can Be Found

4. The Hungry Drover

If you are looking for delicious country food, then you have to head down Locust Hill Road to the Hungry Drover. They have homemade bread, all your breakfast favorites, omelets, grits, and just everything is delicious.

2601 Tigerville Road, Travelers Rest, SC 29690

Absoluely love their breakfast sammies, they make my day

Sam G./cite>

5. Stax Original

Stax Original is new to our list this year, but was one of the top favorites by our readers. Stax Original has been serving breakfast to Greenville residents and visitors since the early 1970s. Offering pancakes, french toast, omelettes, and eggs made every which way, you’re bound to find something to suit your palate.

1704 Poinsett Highway, Greenville

The best, by far.

Tosha S.

More Great Breakfast Restaurants In Greenville, SC

Another Broken Egg – Greenville, Simpsonville
Kendall’s Grill – Greenville
Egg’s Up Grill – Greenville (Pelham Road, Augusta Street, Pleasantburg Drive, Woodruff Road), Greer, Moore, Simpsonville, Spartanburg
Maple Street Biscuit – Greenville and Simpsonville
Peggy’s Diner – Greer

Get our review of Eggs Up Grill, A great option for breakfast out with the family.

If all of these delicious options still aren’t enough to get you up and out of bed early, check out the 5 Best Brunch Restaurants in Spartanburg, SC

Complete Restaurant Guide to Greenville, SC

Looking for something other than breakfast? Here are the best restaurants near Greenville, SC.

15+ Free Things to Do in Downtown Greenville, SC

Entertaining the kids can become expensive so perhaps you’re looking for free things to do in Downtown Greenville, SC! Luckily for us, there are lots of free things to do in Greenville your kids will enjoy. We’ve put together a handy list of free activities to check out, including everything from museums you can visit for free and a new scavenger hunt downtown! (Updated 2026)

One of the best things our family loves about downtown Greenville, not discounting all the awesome, well-planned community events, of course, is that one can still enjoy a simple stroll down Main Street without having to spend big bucks. In fact, if you pack a picnic and combine it with the activities listed below, you can have a completely spend-free day. Are you up for this fun challenge? We tried to be a little more creative with this list and come up with some new ideas. If you have any more ideas, please leave us a comment. We love hearing from you!

Free things to do downtown Greenville SC

This article includes:
Free Museums in Downtown Greenville
Mice on Main
Butterflies on Main & Cancer Survivors Park
Free Mini Golf at McPherson Park
Falls Park, Liberty Bridge, and the Medusa Tree
Downtown Greenville Gardens
Shakespeare in the Park
Moonlight Movies
Downtown Splash Pad
Free Concert Series
Greenville Saturday Market
Street Performers
Downtown Trolley
Swamp Rabbit Trail
Cleveland Park
Unity Park
PAL Center
Free Story Times at Local Bookstores
Free Family-Friendly Events
First Friday Events

Here’s your Ultimate Guide to Downtown Greenville, SC.

Free Museums in Downtown Greenville

There’s a reason why Greenville County Museum of Art has always been top-rated for things to do in Greenville. Not only is it free, but they have public events on Sundays, from 2-3 pm for the public to enjoy. This is in addition to all the amazing art on their walls. At GCMA, you can enjoy a free jazz concert, a sketching session, or a family art adventure!

Other museums that offer free admission are the Shoeless Joe Jackson Museum, The Confederate Museum, and the Military History Center of the Carolinas by Runway Park.

Exterior of Greenville County Museum of Art

Mice on Main

Nine mice sculptures inspired by the book Goodnight Moon are hidden along Main Street. You can download a list of clues online and there is a cute picture book found in many of the local stores along Main Street such as the Mast General Store to help you on your journey.

Butterflies on Main and Cancer Survivors Park

If you have a little one, Mice on Main never gets old. But what about the older child or parent who has repeatedly found all the mice? Here’s another public sculpture hunt for you, also made of metal, but will have you and your kids looking up instead of down. All along the east side of Main Street towards Cancer Survivors Park is a trail of more than 130 butterflies by local artist, Yuri Tsuzuki. This is not an official hunt, but it’s quite fun when one spots the metal yet graceful-looking butterflies (about the size of one’s hand) in the most unexpected places like a lamp post or shop wall. Hint: Start at Coffee Street.

Free Mini Golf

Bring your own putters and golf clubs for a round of free, 18-hole mini-golf course at the popular McPherson Park in downtown Greenville.

Falls Park, Liberty Bridge, and the Medusa Tree

Don’t miss Greenville’s iconic Liberty Bridge and Falls Park that span the Reedy River Falls. Across the park near the road, you will also find the Medusa Tree (“Root Tree”) which is a favorite photo spot for visitors to Greenville.

Many locals enjoy a sweet treat or cup of coffee from Spill the Beans located at the suspension bridge entrance while visiting this park. Public restrooms are located outside Spill the Beans.

Greenville, SC's Medusa Tree — Medusa Tree

Downtown Greenville Gardens

Rock Quarry Garden

This beautiful garden is hidden but has been a favorite photo spot for locals for years.

Kilgore-Lewis Garden

This private garden is open to the public and is a lesser-known beautiful place to explore in downtown Greenville.

The Children’s Garden at Linky Stone Park

This small park will enrich the five senses with its sensory gardens, fairy-tale-inspired structures, and child-friendly sculptures.

See our complete list of Greenville gardens for more information.

Upstate Shakespeare at the Park

The Warehouse Theatre’s Upstate Shakespeare Festival is the ultimate downtown Greenville experience and yes, free! A treat for families with middle school kids or any child who enjoys theater. What better way to introduce theater than under the stars. It also helps to have the option to make a quiet exit without the regret of costly tickets. Though for the record, this theater group is definitely worth paying for.

Moonlight Movies at Falls Park

During the months of September and October, you can head to Falls Park to watch an outdoor movie for free on Thursday evenings at sundown. Be sure not to forget the bug spray as you will be near the Reedy River.

Downtown Splash Pad {currently closed}

Put on the bathing suits and take the kids to the downtown train-themed splash pad, located near Falls Park in RiverPlace. Public restrooms are available beside the splash pad.

Splash Pad in downtown Greenville, SC — Downtown Greenville splash pad

Free Concert Series

Downtown Greenville offers a free concert series during the warmer months.

Greenville Saturday Market

The Greenville Saturday Market offers a plethora of vendors and has a children’s area and activities on select Saturdays from May to October.

Swamp Rabbit Trail

Hike, bike, or run along the Swamp Rabbit Trail in downtown Greenville. This popular part of the trail can take you from Linky Stone Park, through Falls Park and Cancer Survivors Park, to Cleveland Park and Greenville Zoo.

Cleveland Park

This popular park outside the Greenville Zoo includes one of Greenville’s top playgrounds as well as great paths for biking and several picnic shelters.

Unity Park

The huge Unity Park is one of Greenville’s newest parks and it’s easy to see why it’s so popular: it’s gorgeous. Families will love the wide-open spaces, playgrounds, shelters, paved trails, and of course, the splash pad.

Enjoy Street Performers

We do love our walks down through Falls Park and back to Main street. On the weekends, we pause at each street performer and enjoy what they have to offer along Ivey Square on North Main. Have you seen the Hello Kitty drummer or the young magician performing algebra card tricks? We recently chanced upon a caricaturist who will draw your portrait in minutes. Remember to wear comfortable shoes!

Downtown Trolley

Don’t feel like walking all the way to West End Greenville? Well, there is a free option to try. You can enjoy a tour of downtown on the charming Greenville Trolley on Main Street.

PAL Center at Greenville Main Library

Open at select times, your young children can play at the PAL (Play and Learning) Center at the Greenville Hughes Main Library.

Free Story Times at Local Bookstores

Young readers get engaged with the world of books at several local bookstores’ storytimes. Be sure to call ahead to confirm storytime details.

Free Events Downtown

Downtown Greenville has a number of annual free events that are fun for the whole family. Some of our favorites are the annual Duck Derby, iMAGINE Upstate, Artisphere, and Fall for Greenville. See our calendar for a list of current events happening each week. From March to September, Main Street Fridays happen from 5:30-9:30 pm downtown, and every Thursday from 5:30-8:30 pm from March-August is Downtown Alive in NOMA Square. These events feature live entertainment for free as well as a kid’s area with bounce houses for a small fee.

First Friday Art Events

Calling all art lovers! Every First Friday of the month, dozens of art galleries open up to the public from 6-9 pm, and sometimes there are free crafts for kids. Owned by a local mom and artist, Open Art Studios on Main Street is one of our favorites.

BONUS TIP: Visit the Children’s Museum and the Upcountry History Museum for Free

The Hughes Main Library at Heritage Green is well-loved by local parents for its vast collection of books and special events. As an added plus, Greenville residents can also borrow a museum pass to The Children’s Museum (family admission for up to two adults and four children of the same household) or the Upcountry History Museum (free admission for 2 adults and 4 children) both conveniently located right beside the library.

Also, families with an EBT card are eligible for $5 tickets at The Children’s Museum of the Upstate with their card (for up to 4 family members).

Parking for Free in Downtown Greenville

Parking in Greenville is affordable on weekdays at any of the public garages and the public parking is often free on weekends and select holidays. During the weekday, you can often find free 2-hour street parking. If events are currently happening, you may need to pay an event fee of approximately $6-10 to park downtown. You’ll find more information about where to park in our Parking Guide to Greenville, SC.

For even more free activities see our giant list of 50+ free things to do in Greenville County.

What is your favorite FREE thing to do in Greenville?

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Go Swimming

Help Others

Go Miniature Golfing

See an Outdoor Movie

Bike Around Town

Stroll Through a Garden

Be a Tourist

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Enjoy a Free Concert

Learn About History

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Enjoy Some Shakespeare

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Reader Picks for The Best Breakfast in Greenville, SC

1. Stax Omega

2. Biscuit Head

3. Tandem Creperie

4. The Hungry Drover

5. Stax Original

More Great Breakfast Restaurants In Greenville, SC

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