Falls Park on the Reedy is a public park on the Reedy River in downtown Greenville, South Carolina, just off Main Street. The Reedy River Falls drop over rock ledges in the middle of the city, and the curved, pedestrian-only Liberty Bridge gives the best view of them. Paved paths run through gardens, past stonework and public art, with benches and lawns along the way. Entry is free. A good visit combines a walk across the bridge, the steps down to the water below the falls, and a rest on the grass or at a picnic spot.
From mill site to city park
Falls Park sits where Greenville began. The land beside the Reedy River Falls was the site of the town's first gristmill, and a wall from that 18th century mill still stands in the park. Textile mills later used the riverbank, and the river that runs through downtown was polluted and neglected for years.
The Carolina Foothills Garden Club took over the land in 1967, and it became a park. For decades the falls were hidden behind a multi-lane highway. In the early 2000s the city removed the road and built the Liberty Bridge in its place. The park's grand opening followed in 2004. Today it is the focal point of downtown, set in the West End, close to Main Street.
Walking the Liberty Bridge
The Liberty Bridge is pedestrian only. Its deck curves in a crescent, a shape chosen to give walkers the best angle on the falls, and a single suspension cable holds it up. It is the only bridge of this kind in the Western Hemisphere. The bridge is named for the Hipp family, who founded the Liberty Foundation and gave a great deal to the Greenville community.
Walk out slowly. The views shift with each step: the falls drop below you, and the city skyline sits behind them. At the end of the bridge, steps lead down to stone benches and a lawn. A coffee roaster next to the bridge entrance sells coffee and ice cream, which people carry out onto the bridge or down to the grass.
Gardens, stonework and art
Away from the bridge, paths wind through flower beds, tall old trees and terraced levels. Stonework, boulders and sloping lawns shape the ground, and the plantings change through the seasons. Benches and small seating areas are set at many of the viewpoints.
Public art is part of the walk. A rose-coloured crystal tower by the glass artist Dale Chihuly stands in one of the gardens. A red steel sculpture, "Untitled 2002 to 2003", rises at the end of the Liberty Bridge. The Old Mill Ruins are also in the park and worth a short stop for the history.
Squirrels, geese and ducks live along the river, and they are used to people. Musicians sometimes play along the paths.
Water, picnics and the Swamp Rabbit Trail
Below the falls, a few spots give access to the river. Families come to take off their shoes and splash in the shallows. Watch footing on the wet rocks and keep clear of the faster water. The grassy hill is a favourite for children, and picnic areas, tables and a barbecue grill are available. There are also playground equipment, restrooms and a dog park among the amenities.
The park is also a venue for music, theatre, festivals and weddings during the year. The Peace Center amphitheater nearby hosts open-air concerts, moonlight movies and Shakespeare plays.
The Swamp Rabbit Trail passes through the park. This paved path follows the Reedy River and an old railroad corridor, and it continues to the town of Travelers Rest. Cyclists and runners share the park's paths, and bike racks are easy to find downtown.
Two restaurants sit inside the park, Mary's at Falls Cottage and the Overlook Grill. Many more cafes and restaurants are within walking distance on Main Street and around the West End.
Perguntas frequentes
Is there an entry fee for Falls Park on the Reedy?
No. The park is free to enter. Parking is separate, and some lots nearby charge a fee.
How long do you need at Falls Park?
Plan one to three hours. An hour covers the Liberty Bridge and the falls. Two to three hours lets you walk the whole park, see the gardens and sit for a while.
Is parking easy at Falls Park?
It can take ten to fifteen minutes to find a space at busy times. Street parking, a paid garage and paid lots are nearby. Going early or on a weekday helps.
Where is the best view of the waterfall?
The Liberty Bridge. Its curve was built to give a wide view of the falls with the city behind them. The falls can also be seen from several other points in the park.
Can you bring a dog to Falls Park?
Yes, dogs are allowed, and many people walk them along the paths and the Swamp Rabbit Trail.
Can you eat at the park?
Yes. Mary's at Falls Cottage and the Overlook Grill are inside the park. You can also picnic at the picnic areas or on the lawns.
