Mom Review: Falls Park in Downtown Greenville

Have you explored Falls Park? Greenville SC has one of the most gorgeous parks in the country. Falls Park on the Reedy River is the statement piece of the West End of Downtown Greenville, South Carolina.

With the Liberty Bridge as the centerpiece, grassy fields to frolic in, gardens to explore, and even some special events throughout the year, the park makes a great place to play at. Find out why Falls Park is one of the nation’s best city parks for 2023, and why we love it too! 

What We Love To Do at Falls Park

If you are looking for something family-friendly to do in Greenville SC, Falls Park on the Reedy River is a wonderful day to spend the day. Its natural beauty has been amplified by strategic gardening and architectural planning, adding to its charm and Southern romanticism.

What used to be a grist mill has transformed into a charming area to relax and connect with our community in large part to a combined effort of Furman University, the City of Greenville, and the Carolina Foothills Garden Club. Good thing they put in so much effort because Falls Park is thriving!

Take in the Sights on Liberty Bridge

The suspension bridge, plastered on postcards, magazine articles, and Greenville merchandise, is stunning. The bridge is an architectural masterpiece that offers spectacular views of the falls.

If you walk out onto the bridge, it is a great place to take photos while taking in views of the falls and downtown Greenville. Liberty Bridge is particularly beautiful at night, as the area is lit up with lights, and the downtown area is illuminated. 

Enjoy a Picnic on the Grassy Spaces

Located around Liberty Bridge is several open field areas to lay down a blanket for a picnic, play with your kids, or watch street performers and buskers on a warm afternoon. Though you may be tempted to take a dip in the river while playing in the grassy spaces, know that it is forbidden to play in the Reedy River. The river has a high level of bacteria that can make you sick!

Explore the Gardens

The Carolina Foothills Garden Club Sanctuary and Pedrick’s Garden at Falls Park are two of the most popular downtown. These gardens feature mixes of foliage, literal tons of gorgeous stonework, and are a great way to have your kids burn off some energy. We always see a lizard or two while there.

Be sure to get the obligatory photo with the Medusa tree located near the Governor’s School. Many of the gardens run along the river, so be careful not to damage the plants while exploring. There are also a number of ducks, geese, and other wildlife you will want to be sure to avoid. Never feed the ducks bread!

Special Events Held at Falls Park

Most of the popular events in Downtown Greenville spill over into the Falls Park area, but there are several regularly scheduled events that occur here.

Reedy River Duck Derby

Every spring, thousands descend upon Falls Park to watch little yellow ducks float over the falls in hopes of winning a grand prize. Don’t worry, they are little rubber ducks, but the event is so much fun! Before the ducks fall over the falls, there are tons of family-friendly activities throughout the park, including face painting, duck-related crafts, and more.

Upstate Shakespeare Festival

This FREE festival runs from the end of May until the end of July each year in Falls Park. Performances on held on the stage located down the stairs and to the right of Liberty Bridge on the grassy field at the TD Amphitheatre.

Shows are around 2 hours long, and showcase classic Shakespearean plays such as Macbeth, The Merry Wives of Windsor, and more! Bring a lawn chair, a picnic blanket, and maybe even a bottle of wine (21 and older with a $1 wristband) to have a perfect night out!

Moonlight Movies

Every Thursday in September and October, you can watch a free movie on the lawn of Falls Park. There are local food vendors, and alcohol is allowed if you purchase a $1 wristband. The movies are typically teen and adult-friendly and include some popular titles that you will actually enjoy watching. 

The Greenville Christmas Market at the Grand Bohemian Lodge

The annual Greenville Christmas Market is located right off the end of the Liberty Bridge on the grassy field in front of the Grand Bohemian Lodge. This outdoor market runs from late November to Early January and has gifts, treats, and more for the perfect gift. Your kids can also meet with Santa. There is also a stunning 20ft Christmas tree you can smell from the other side of the bridge.

Dining Near Falls Park

There are dozens of dining options near Falls Park, but if you’re looking for views of the park, then these restaurants and cafes will fit your criteria.

Spill the Beans

This cafe has delicious coffee, gourmet ice cream, milkshakes, and more. If you want to eat inside, they have a window view of the falls, but you can sit outside around the fountains and enjoy your sweet treat as well. 

Passerelle French Bistro

The bistro sits right off the stairs that lead down to Liberty Bridge. They offer French cuisine, indoor and outdoor seating, and the perfect date night atmosphere.

What’s your favorite thing to do at Falls Park?

15+ Free Things to Do in Downtown Greenville, SC