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.
Exploring Brooks’ Playground: Greenville’s First Fully Inclusive Playground
The Reimagined Finlay Park in Columbia, SC: Waterfalls, Playgrounds & City Views
After years of anticipation, Columbia’s beloved Finlay Park has officially reopened — and the transformation is stunning. This newly renovated 18-acre urban park now blends natural beauty with modern play spaces, making it one of the best family-friendly destinations in the Midlands.
Saluda Shoals Park: The Ultimate Play-and-Spray Destination in Columbia, SC
We love a good playground — but in the summer? We love a good playground with a splash pad even more. And when we stumble upon that perfect summer combo, you know we can’t keep quiet! South Carolina is packed with family-friendly gems, and one of our favorites is just a road trip away. In just 1.5 hours from Greenville, you’ll land at a spot that checks all the summer fun boxes — Saluda Shoals Park in Columbia, SC.
Obstacle Fun & Shade at Linley Park — Anderson’s Coolest New Playground!
School’s out, summer is in full swing — and luckily, there’s a brand-new reason to head outdoors in Anderson, SC: Linley Park’s fully renovated playground is now open, and it’s better than ever!
Greenville Playgrounds: Ella Mae Logan Park
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.
Just Opened: Sky-High Adventure Playground at McKinney Park, Woodruff, SC!
If climbing, crawling, and soaring through the sky sound like your kid’s perfect day — this playground was built for them! This brand-new net adventure playground in downtown Woodruff, SC, is an absolute blast. From sky-high climbs and twisty slides to wild net tunnels that feel like a jungle gym in the clouds, it’s made for fearless little explorers.
From Treehouse to Zipline: What’s New at Kid Venture 2.0 in Anderson, SC
Kid Venture 2.0 in Anderson, SC was already an amazing spot—and now it’s even better! With brand-new climbing elements, a treehouse, and a zipline, there’s so much more for kids to explore and enjoy. Plus, the splash pad will reopen later in May!
Cleveland Park: Explore the Zoo, Trails, Playgrounds, and Enjoy Shaved Ice!
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!
New Riverside Barn Park in Bluffton, SC: Rope Bridges, Owl, and Tons of Fun!
During our recent trip to Hilton Head, we discovered an absolute gem of a park, and the kids couldn't have been happier! This brand-new playground features an exciting central two-tower rope bridge with a slide exit and a charming owl-shaped play structure, perfect for the little ones. There are plenty of climbing adventures, a splash pad to keep cool on sunny days, and even a zip line. If you're planning a trip with the kids to the Lowcountry, this park definitely deserves a spot on your must-visit list!
Croftstone Park: A Fun Escape with Spiderweb and Obstacle Course in Greenville, SC
Looking for a fun spot to let the kids run wild, shoot some hoops, or just change things up? Croftstone Park, your local neighborhood gem in Greenville, SC, is the place to explore! After a big makeover, this park reopened in January 2025 with an awesome new playground, a spiderweb climbing area, and a cool obstacle course. The basketball court’s all fixed up too, and there are shade structures to keep you cool while you play. Croftstone Park is a fantastic place to spend a few hours.