McPherson Park

Imagine a cozy green corner where history meets modern relaxation. McPherson Park is the oldest city park in Greenville, located in the scenic state of South Carolina, USA. Covering about 12.5 acres in the historic East Park neighborhood, it serves as a true oasis of tranquility amidst the urban landscape.

This park is known for its inviting atmosphere and abundance of centuries-old trees. It has long been a favorite spot for family walks and meetings with friends. Thanks to its location between the downtown business district and residential neighborhoods, McPherson Park is a vital link in the local community, offering recreation for every taste.

Natural beauty and well-developed infrastructure are harmoniously combined here: from leisurely walks along the creek to active outdoor games. The park remains true to its historic appearance, shaped back in the late 19th century, and continues to delight residents and guests with its hospitality.

For your convenience, here are the contact details and address for McPherson Park. This will help you find your way or contact the administration for details regarding events.

Visitors to McPherson Park can expect an impressive variety of activities for all tastes. One of the main highlights is the mini-golf course with 9 or 18 holes. If you don't have your own equipment, clubs and balls can be rented at the Sears Recreation Center. There are also two lighted tennis courts for sports enthusiasts.

For families with children, there are modern playgrounds, while scenic walking trails with charming bridges over Richland Creek create ideal conditions for quiet strolls and photo sessions. You can also see a historic log cabin and a classic bandstand, which add a special character to the place and often serve as venues for small concerts.

If you are planning a visit with a large group, the park has several covered picnic shelters available for rent. It is a wonderful place to enjoy an outdoor lunch surrounded by shady alleys, soaking in the silence and the peaceful pace of life in Greenville.

Finding McPherson Park is easy, as it is conveniently located in the historic city center at 120 E Park Ave. If you are staying in downtown Greenville, a walk to the park will take only 10–15 minutes, allowing you to enjoy the city's architecture along the way.

For those who prefer to travel by car, there is convenient parking on-site. You can also easily reach the destination by taxi or public transport — the park is clearly visible from Park Avenue and is a well-known landmark for drivers.

Cyclists will also find the route comfortable thanks to the presence of dedicated bike lanes and parking racks. Its convenient location makes McPherson Park an accessible and attractive destination for both spontaneous strolls and planned day trips.

The history of this site dates back to 1884. The park was established on land donated by Caroline Cleveland Choice, the widow of a prominent attorney. The city supported the initiative by adding a wooded area, and soon the territory became the main hub for city festivities, balls, and picnics. In 1911, the park expanded, continuing to serve as the heart of public life.

During World War I, McPherson Park took on a more somber role, hosting an army camp and recruitment center. However, it later returned to its peaceful mission. Between 1935 and 1941, as part of a large-scale federal reconstruction program, the park acquired many of the features preserved to this day, including the famous stone shelter built with funds from the Sears company.

The site received its current name in 1941 in honor of John Alexander McPherson. As a city engineer, he made an invaluable contribution to the development of the city's green space system. Today, the park is not only a place for recreation but also an important historic landmark that preserves the spirit of Greenville from centuries past.

When planning a visit to McPherson Park, you should consider your interests. For a simple introductory walk to see the main sights, such as the historic cabin and the picturesque creek, 1–2 hours is usually sufficient.

However, if your plans include a full family picnic, a round of mini-golf, or active play on the playgrounds, we recommend setting aside 3 to 4 hours. This will allow you to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of this green oasis without any rush.

The park is open to the public daily, making it a convenient getaway any day of the week. Official operating hours are from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM. Admission is free for all visitors.

Please note that the hours for recreational facilities may vary. For example, the Sears Recreation Center, where you can rent equipment for mini-golf, is open Monday through Saturday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The rental center is closed on Sundays, so if you plan to play on that day, you should bring your own clubs and balls.

Exploring the surroundings of McPherson Park will allow you to dive even deeper into the region's atmosphere. Its proximity to the city's business district makes the park an excellent starting point for discovering local architecture and culture.

Nearby, you will find both historic buildings and modern leisure spaces, including popular craft breweries and charming churches. Below are the closest points of interest: