It’s a common scenario – your family is in town and you’re looking for a fun way to spend the day. Or, you’ve found yourself with a free afternoon, but your bank account is a bit low. Luckily, having a good time doesn’t have to mean breaking the bank. Here’s a roundup of free things to do in Greenville, South Carolina. There are enough activities to keep you busy for an entire weekend.
Free Things to Do in Greenville
Spend Time Outside
- The South Carolina Botanical Center is just a 45-minute drive from Greenville, but it is well worth the trek. Here, you can explore display gardens and hike nature trails.
- Greenville’s downtown is home to an expansive trail network, and there are many walking and biking paths that connect to the parks throughout the city. Greenville Health System Swamp Rabbit Trail is a 21-mile trail system that runs along the Reedy River. It connects Greenville County with schools, parks, and local businesses.
- Soak in the view at the Blue Ridge Escarpment. This beautiful place is where the Blue Ridge Mountains are visibly reduced to foothills.
- The Liberty Bridge in Falls Park is a beautiful 345-foot-long concrete reinforced deck supported by a single suspension cable. This modern bridge is similar to structures in Europe, but it is a one-of-a-kind in the United States.
- Visit the Poinsett Bridge, the oldest bridge in South Carolina. This 14-foot Gothic arch stone structure spans over Little Gap Creek.
- Stop by NOMA Square, a downtown outdoor plaza. Whether it’s free yoga or live music, there is often something fun going on. It’s also a great place to rest and soak in Greenville’s culture.
- While you are downtown, take a trolley ride through Main Street. These vintage-inspired open-air trolleys can seat 35 passengers, and they are wheelchair accessible.
- Play miniature golf in McPherson Park. You can play for free if you bring your own balls and clubs, or you can rent them for $1 each during certain hours.
Admire Art and History
- The Greenville County Museum of Art features nationally acclaimed American art, including pieces by Andrew Wyeth, Jasper Johns, Georgia O’Keeffe, and Andy Warhol.
- All throughout Greenville’s downtown, you can find sculptures and other works of art. Many of these pieces are inspired by Greenville’s rich history.
- Each June, the Greenville Chautauqua Society hosts a theatrical festival, and nearly every show is free. Watch literary and historical figures come to life on the stage with the entire family.
- The History Museum of Travelers Rest is just a 20-minute drive from Greenville, and it is a great way to learn about the history of both Greenville and the town Travelers Rest. This site was built in 1926, and it was originally a grocery store. It houses artifacts that highlight the stories of people traveling between the mountains and the coast.
- Visit the Greenville County Library System. There are 11 branch locations, so take advantage of the large collection of free books, CDs, and movies to borrow.
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If you take a look around, you’ll find that there are many free things to do in Greenville, South Carolina. Here at Waterstone on Augusta, we work hard to connect residents with area activities so they can continue to enjoy their golden years. If you’re interested in joining a premier assisted living and memory care community in the heart of downtown Greenville, check out Waterstone on Augusta. Our welcoming community is relaxing and elegant, and we strive to enhance the quality of life of the seniors we serve through teamwork and unity. To learn more about our amenities and to view our lovely community, please schedule a tour, or call us today at 864-605-7236.