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The top free things to do in Greenville

No cash? No problem. Whether you are spending a day or a lifetime in Greenville, these are some of the best offerings that won’t break the bank.

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Conestee relies on donations to keep its trails free. | Photo by GVLtoday

You don’t need major funds to have major fun in Greenville; just look at these free activities.

We promise these free things to do are more than just an aimless walk in the park. Instead, we’re making sure you get well-researched, unique suggestions worth the trip.

Outdoors

Conestee Nature Preserve | With over miles of trails, hundreds of bird species, and a playscape where kids can legally build stick forts — Conestee is Greenville’s wildest classroom. Find 30+ other parks in our Park City Guide and 20+ places to hike in our Hiking City Guide.

Prisma Health Swamp Rabbit Trail | Once a humble railroad, this trail network is now a 28-mile ribbon of greenway magic connecting parks and businesses. Walk, run, or ride your way from Falls Park to Furman — and yes, there are plenty of snack stops along the way.

Mini golf at McPherson Park | Practice your putt on this free 18-hole course tucked into Greenville’s oldest park — just bring your putter. It’s low-key, low-cost, and high on charm.

Chase waterfalls | No boots, no problem — this driving tour from Kidding Around Greenville lets you chase waterfalls without breaking a sweat. With a map full of scenic stops and zero uphill battles, it’s an easy way to love the great outdoors.

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One of Greenville’s best galleries is Greenville itself. | Photo by GVLtoday

Arts

First Fridays | Art crawl your way through Greenville on the first Friday of each month, with special appearances by artists. It’s part gallery hop, part date night, part excuse to say things like “I love the texture” while drinking a glass of wine.

Greenville County Museum of Art | Home to the world’s most extensive public collection of Andrew Wyeth watercolors — and every Sunday, a live soundtrack. “Music in the Galleries” turns your art stroll into a mini-concert, no ticket required.

Art in Public Places Tour | Greenville’s art isn’t confined to gallery walls. Use the city’s interactive map to find murals, sculptures, and surprises around nearly every corner.

History

The Shoeless Joe Jackson Museum | Step into the home where baseball legend Shoeless Joe Jackson lived, and get a glimpse into the life of one of baseball’s most intriguing figures.

Kilgore-Lewis House | Step inside this historic home and stroll the arboretum with volunteer guides Wednesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Moonlight Movies at Falls Park

Let’s all go to the movies. | Photo by @tremperj

Seasonal

Moonlight Movies | Taking place in Greer in the summer and Greenville in the fall, these family-friendly movie nights are a chance to catch a flick under the stars.

Outdoor concerts | Kick off the weekend with live tunes at PNG Downtown Alive on Thursdays + Greenville Heritage Main Street Fridays.

Farmers markets | Though you may spend money while you’re there, admission to all local farmers markets is free.

For kids

Mice on Main | Greenville’s nine bronze mice are the cutest residents on Main Street. Born from a high school project and inspired by “Goodnight Moon,” this citywide scavenger hunt turns a stroll downtown into a playful quest for kids and grown-ups alike.

Park hop | This interactive game turns local parks into your playground. Solve clues, rack up points, join playdates, and snag prizes — all while exploring Greenville’s green spaces from May through August.

Library events | The library features more than just books. Explore the calendar for free classes and activities for kids (and grown-ups).

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