The holidays are the perfect time to get outside, and even with the weather being a little unpredictable, the Upstate is full of great spots for outdoor play. We finally made it to Brooks’ Playground in Greenville, SC, and it did not disappoint. It’s the city’s first fully inclusive playground, thoughtfully designed so every child can play, move, and explore at their own pace.
Let me tell you about a little gem of a park. Don’t get me wrong—I adore Greenville’s big-name playgrounds. Unity Park? Love it. Runway Park at GMU? Always a hit. Herdklotz? Yes, please. But every now and then, we crave something quieter, smaller, and just a little bit different. A spot where the pace slows, the crowds thin, and toddlers can roam free without being trampled by older kids chasing each other like it’s recess.
Since making Greenville our home, we’ve turned our free time into an adventure—exploring every hidden trail, scenic park, and playful playground in the area, all while on a sweet quest to find the best shaved ice spots in town. Cleveland Park definitely checked all the boxes!
Greenville, SC, is like a hidden gem when it comes to parks – there are 37 parks spread out over more than 400 acres just waiting for you to explore! Sure, Falls Park and Unity Park get a lot of love (and for good reason), but there are so many more little treasures tucked away in quite neighborhoods that are definitely worth checking out. Whether you’re up for a relaxing stroll, letting the kiddos run wild on playgrounds, or just soaking in the beauty of nature, Greenville has so much to offer. So grab your family, pack up a picnic, and get ready to discover your new favorite spot to hang out outdoors!
The holiday season is in full swing. If you’re looking for a big dose of holiday cheer, visit Downtown Greenville. It's lit and packed with festive activities and holiday backdrops at every turn. The best part? Most activities are free and perfect for the whole family to enjoy.
Located in Greenville County, near Mauldin, South Carolina, the Conestee Nature Preserve is a 400-acre natural sanctuary along the Reedy River. This diverse habitat features wetlands, hardwood forests, and open meadows. With over 13 miles of trails, you can wander through some stunning natural scenery and keep your eyes peeled for all sorts of furry and feathered locals. But that's not all - the preserve also boasts a fun playground for kiddos to burn off energy, educational programs for little ones to spark a love for the environment, and a dedicated bird watching area.
The summer is in full swing and the sun is beating down strong and hot. But don't let that keep you indoors. Run, play, and splash your way into happiness with these cool splash pads in and around Greenville. Their irresistible spray jets create the perfect setting to celebrate the simple joys of summer. So grab your swimsuits and sunblock, invite your friends, and hurry over to one or all of the splash pads on this list.
The Swan Lake Trail at Furman University is a serene and picturesque walking spot that offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural attractions. The 1.5-mile paved loop takes you on a journey through a variety of settings, including a charming rose garden, an Asian garden, and a tranquil koi pond, while also providing opportunities to explore the iconic Furman Bell Tower and the first Japanese temple ever brought to America.
The Greenville Zoo is an exciting world of wildlife nestled in the heart of Cleveland Park. Spread across 14 enchanting acres, the zoo features a diverse range of exhibits and landscapes from the sweeping savannahs to the hidden corners of the rainforest. The zoo's small size adds to its charm, making it easy to explore and get up close to the animals
