McPherson Park - a path with trees on the side
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McPherson Park

4.6
·892 reviews·Greenville, United States

Greenville's historic 12.5-acre park offering free mini golf, playgrounds, trails, and tennis courts.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, perfect for play

CrowdLow
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McPherson Park - a path with trees on the side

McPherson Park

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, perfect for play

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Greenville's historic 12.5-acre park offering free mini golf, playgrounds, trails, and tennis courts.

4.6
(892 reviews)

"A great place in the downtown area to just take a quick stroll, with free mini golf!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Bring Your Own Putter & Ball

The 18-hole mini golf is free, but you'll need to bring your own equipment to play!

🌳 Explore the Hidden Trails

Discover a lesser-known section of the park with a stream and a great playground further down.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Free Mini Golf Course

Free Mini Golf Course

Near downtown Greenville

Enjoy 18 holes of free mini golf! Bring your own putter and ball for a fun, casual game.

TikTokInstagram
Shady Walking Trails

Shady Walking Trails

Throughout the park

Wander through mature trees and enjoy a peaceful stroll along the park's serene walking paths.

InstagramReddit
Playground Fun

Playground Fun

Multiple locations

Two distinct playgrounds offer fun for children, with one conveniently located near the mini golf area.

Reddit
Tennis & Pickleball Courts

Tennis & Pickleball Courts

Designated courts

Newly added courts provide space for tennis and pickleball enthusiasts, including a backboard for practice.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Free Mini Golf Fun

McPherson Park boasts an 18-hole mini golf course that's completely free to play! Just bring your own putter and ball. It's a fantastic, budget-friendly activity for all ages, perfect for a casual afternoon outing. TikTokReddit

Greenville's Historic Gem

As Greenville's oldest park, McPherson Park has a rich history dating back to the late 1800s. It's a peaceful 12.5-acre oasis in the heart of downtown, offering a serene escape with mature trees and walking trails. TikTokInstagram

Best Times

When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, perfect for play
Crowd
Low
When
Spring & Fall mornings
Why
Pleasant weather, ideal for strolls
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekend late afternoons
Why
Enjoy the sunset and cooler temps
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

McPherson Park is the oldest park in Greenville, SC. Previously known as “City Park”, it was renamed in honor of John Alexander McPherson in recognition of his service in developing city parks throughout the region. After numerous land donations dating back to 1884, the park grew to 32 acres. It now sits on 12.5 acres after having lost nearly 20 acres to traffic patterns and urban development. In ...
@angelicajelly13
53 likes • 1.4K views

🎯 Bring Your Own Putter & Ball

The 18-hole mini golf is free, but you'll need to bring your own equipment to play! TikTokInstagramReddit

🌳 Explore the Hidden Trails

Discover a lesser-known section of the park with a stream and a great playground further down. Instagram

McPherson Park in Downtown Greenville!! (She’s saying the name of the park wrong) #downtown #yeahthatgreenville #sc #downtowngreenville #walkingdownthestreet
@sybilbrown806
13 likes • 258 views
Kensington Philadelphia McPherson Park It’s Only Getting Worse!!! #saynotodrugs #fyp #homelessness
usafoxvoice
708 likes • 195.5K views

🧺 Picnic Under the Gazebo

Enjoy lunch at the picnic tables in the gazebo area, offering shade and views of the mini golf. Reddit

👟 Watch for Steep Paths

Moms with double strollers should be aware of steep inclines on certain paths, especially towards the right. Reddit

🌧️Mid-August brings peak hurricane season, and #GreenvilleSC is actively managing flood risks with thoughtful design and green infrastructure. Features like those at Unity Park and McPherson Park help slow and store stormwater, protecting neighborhoods during heavy rains.   ‼️ Residents can stay safe by learning about flood hazards in their neighborhoods and avoiding driving through flooded street...
cityofgreenvillesc
1.6K likes • 53.3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Bring Your Own Putter & Ball

The 18-hole mini golf is free, but you'll need to bring your own equipment to play! TikTokInstagramReddit

🌳 Explore the Hidden Trails

Discover a lesser-known section of the park with a stream and a great playground further down. Instagram

🧺 Picnic Under the Gazebo

Enjoy lunch at the picnic tables in the gazebo area, offering shade and views of the mini golf. Reddit

👟 Watch for Steep Paths

Moms with double strollers should be aware of steep inclines on certain paths, especially towards the right. Reddit

💧 Stormwater Management Feature

The park plays a role in managing stormwater, a thoughtful design feature for heavy rains. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(892 reviews)

Reviews Summary

McPherson Park is widely praised as a delightful and accessible green space in downtown Greenville. Visitors love the free mini golf, playgrounds, and peaceful walking trails, making it a great spot for families and casual outings. While the mini golf course could use some upkeep, its free nature and the park's overall charm make it a highly recommended destination for a relaxed experience. Reddit+2

"What a great little park! They’ve recently added two new tennis/pickleball courts and even put up a backboard for hitting practice. There are two different playgrounds, restrooms, and a couple of picnic canopies. The park also has an 18-hole miniature golf course—while it’s not in the best condition, it’s free and still a lot of fun. Overall, a really nice park with plenty to enjoy."

Matt

"Came here just for the mini golf. It was free - you just need to bring your putter and ball. Holes could use a leaf blower but, it was free mini golf, free parking, and it wasn’t crowded at 5pm on a perfect spring day. This is the place to bring your little kid and have them take a gander at mini golf."

Nicole Joyce

"This is a great place to walk with children, family holidays and barbecues. Mini golf is just great. We had a great time in the shade, enjoying the views and the weather."

Polina Belianskaia

What People Like

Free mini golf
Family-friendly playgrounds
Peaceful walking trails

What People Dislike

Mini golf condition

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

McPherson Park is conveniently located at 120 E Park Ave, Greenville, SC, right on the edge of downtown. It's easily accessible by car and is a pleasant walk from many downtown attractions. Parking is generally available within the park or nearby. InstagramReddit

Yes, there is parking available within the park. Reviewers mention that parking was not bad at all, even during busy times. Reddit

Absolutely! McPherson Park is situated right on the edge of downtown Greenville, making it a very walkable destination from many hotels and attractions. TikTokReddit

For events like Fall for Greenville, locals suggest considering parking garages downtown or utilizing ride-sharing services to avoid congestion. Walking from the park to the festival area is also a great option. Reddit

While specific bus routes aren't detailed, its central downtown location suggests it's likely accessible via local bus services. Checking the Greenville T.O.O.T. (Transit Oriented Transportation) routes would be advisable. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, McPherson Park is free to enter and enjoy. The mini golf course is also free to play, though you need to bring your own putter and ball. TikTokInstagramReddit

The 18-hole mini golf course at McPherson Park is completely free! You just need to bring your own putters and golf balls. TikTokInstagramReddit

While specific hours aren't always listed, parks are generally open from dawn until dusk. It's best to assume standard park hours unless an event dictates otherwise. Reddit

No booking is required for the free mini golf. Just show up with your equipment and enjoy a round! TikTokInstagram

Instagram posts mention 'Train Day' events at a McPherson Park in Bracken Ridge, Australia, which may have specific activities or fees. The McPherson Park in Greenville, SC, does not typically host such events. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can enjoy free 18-hole mini golf, play on two playgrounds, walk the shady trails, and utilize the tennis and pickleball courts. Picnic areas are also available. TikTokInstagramReddit

Yes, there are restrooms located within the park, described as simple but clean. Reddit

Yes, McPherson Park is very family-friendly with two playgrounds and free mini golf. The playground near the mini golf is a great bonus for kids who get bored. Reddit

While the mini golf course is free and fun, reviewers note that the holes could use some maintenance and a leaf blower. It's not pristine, but still enjoyable for a casual game. Reddit+1

While not explicitly stated, most city parks allow dogs on leashes. It's always a good idea to check local ordinances or park signage for specific pet policies. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

McPherson Park has picnic tables, including some in a gazebo area, perfect for bringing your own food and enjoying a meal outdoors. Reddit

Yes, the park is a great spot for family holidays and barbecues, with picnic canopies available. Reddit+1

As McPherson Park is located on the edge of downtown Greenville, there are numerous restaurants, cafes, and eateries within easy walking distance. TikTok

Fall for Greenville features a wide variety of local food vendors offering diverse cuisines. It's a great opportunity to sample different dishes from the region. Reddit

Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their own food and drinks to enjoy in the park's picnic areas. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The mature trees offer beautiful natural backdrops, especially during fall foliage. The mini golf course can also provide fun, quirky photo opportunities. TikTokInstagram

The park's green spaces, mature trees, and playgrounds offer a pleasant, relaxed setting for family photos. The gazebo area also provides a nice backdrop. Reddit

Drone usage in city parks is often restricted or prohibited to ensure safety and tranquility for visitors. It's best to check with the City of Greenville Parks and Recreation department for their specific drone policy. Instagram

While not a panoramic viewpoint, the park offers lovely views of mature trees and the surrounding greenery, providing a peaceful urban escape. Reddit

Early morning or late afternoon 'golden hours' will offer the best natural light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and creating a warm atmosphere. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

McPherson Park is a fantastic destination for families. The free 18-hole mini golf is a huge draw, just remember to bring your own putters and balls! TikTokInstagram There are also two playgrounds, offering plenty of space for kids to run and play. Reddit The picnic areas, especially the gazebo, are perfect for a family lunch or snack break. Reddit While most paths are manageable, be mindful of some steeper inclines if you're navigating with a double stroller. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, McPherson Park is a gem. The entire park is free to enter, and the 18-hole mini golf is also free – you just need to bring your own equipment. TikTokInstagramReddit This offers hours of entertainment without spending a dime. The park also provides picnic areas, so packing your own lunch is a great way to save money on dining out. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Solo Strollers & Couples

McPherson Park offers a peaceful retreat for solo visitors or couples looking for a relaxed outing. You can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the shady walking trails, taking in the mature trees and serene atmosphere. InstagramReddit The free mini golf provides a fun, low-key activity to share, and there are plenty of benches to simply sit, relax, and people-watch. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History of McPherson Park

McPherson Park holds the distinction of being Greenville, South Carolina's oldest park. Its origins trace back to land donations starting in 1884, and it was originally known as 'City Park.' The park was later renamed in honor of John Alexander McPherson, recognizing his significant contributions to the development of city parks throughout the region. TikTokInstagram

Over time, the park's acreage has fluctuated. It once spanned 32 acres but now occupies a more consolidated 12.5 acres after nearly 20 acres were lost. Despite the reduction in size, it remains a cherished green space in the heart of downtown, offering a blend of historical significance and recreational opportunities. TikTokInstagram

Green Infrastructure and Stormwater Management

McPherson Park is more than just a recreational area; it's also a component of Greenville's thoughtful approach to urban planning and environmental management. Features within the park, alongside others like Unity Park, are designed to help manage flood risks, particularly during peak hurricane season. Instagram

These green infrastructure elements work by slowing down and storing stormwater runoff. This process is crucial for protecting surrounding neighborhoods from potential flooding during heavy rainfall events. It highlights how public spaces can serve dual purposes, enhancing both community well-being and ecological resilience. Instagram

A Hub for Free Family Fun

One of the most celebrated aspects of McPherson Park is its commitment to providing free, accessible entertainment for families. The 18-hole mini golf course is a prime example, offering hours of fun without any cost, provided visitors bring their own putters and balls. TikTokInstagramReddit

Complementing the mini golf are two distinct playgrounds, ensuring that younger visitors have ample space to play and explore. The proximity of a playground to the mini golf area is a thoughtful touch, allowing children who might get bored of golfing to easily transition to another activity. Reddit

Furthermore, the park's picnic areas, including a shaded gazebo, make it an ideal spot for family gatherings, birthday parties, or simply a relaxed lunch amidst nature. This combination of free activities and family-friendly amenities solidifies McPherson Park's reputation as a valuable community resource. Reddit+1

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