What to do near Rock Hill, SC? Rock Hill, South Carolina, and its surrounding areas offer a treasure trove of activities and attractions, blending outdoor adventures with cultural experiences. At rockscapes.net, we believe in creating memorable experiences, and this guide will help you discover the best Rock Hill has to offer, from exploring historical sites to enjoying the natural beauty of the region and all using rocks. Whether you’re a local seeking new adventures or a visitor planning your itinerary, prepare to uncover the fun things to do near Rock Hill, SC, with our detailed recommendations and insider tips.
1. Unearth the Mysteries of Carhartt Mansion Ruins
Delve into the past by exploring the Carhartt Mansion Ruins.
These ruins, remnants of a 1930s estate, offer a unique glimpse into local history and are tucked away just off the Riverwalk Trail. As you walk the trail, keep an eye out after the 1.25-mile marker and venture up the slope to discover this hidden gem.
Carhartt Mansion Ruins, a historic site in Rock Hill, South Carolina, offering a glimpse into the past with its aged stone structure, partially covered in vegetation, inviting exploration and photography.
2. Embrace Friendly Competition at the American Cornhole League Headquarters
The American Cornhole League Headquarters, located in the Historic Lowenstein Building just outside Downtown Rock Hill, offers a unique and entertaining experience.
The renovated building provides a bowling alley-like atmosphere, but dedicated to cornhole. You might even encounter a pro player since the ACL World Championships are held in Rock Hill. Check their website for hours and prices.
Inside the American Cornhole League Headquarters in Rock Hill, SC, where players engage in a spirited game of cornhole, highlighting the venue’s vibrant atmosphere and competitive spirit.
3. Immerse Yourself in the Beauty of Sunflower Fields
During the blooming season, sunflower fields provide the perfect backdrop for stunning photoshoots.
Visit between late August and early September for the best experience. Draper Wildlife Management Area offers free access to a beautiful sunflower field.
Vibrant sunflower fields near Rock Hill, South Carolina, stretching towards the horizon, capture the essence of late summer with their golden hues and lush green foliage.
4. Discover Local Treasures at the Old Town Farmer’s Market
Immerse yourself in the local community by visiting the Old Town Farmer’s Market in Rock Hill.
This market offers fresh produce, handmade jewelry, and supports local businesses. It’s an excellent way to spend a Saturday morning. Check their Facebook page for weekly vendor updates.
A bustling scene at the Old Town Farmers Market in Rock Hill, South Carolina, showcasing local vendors and community members engaging in commerce and conversation, with an array of fresh produce and handmade goods on display.
5. Embark on a Craft Beer Adventure along the YoCo Brew Trail
The YoCo Brew Trail features 10 local breweries, each offering its unique flavors and atmosphere.
Complete the trail by enjoying a drink at each brewery. Many serve food, and some have partnerships with food trucks. Check out rockscapes.net for an insider’s guide to breweries in Rock Hill.
A collection of brewery logos representing the YoCo Brew Trail near Rock Hill, South Carolina, symbolizing a diverse and handcrafted beer experience across local establishments.
6. Indulge in Seasonal Coffee Flights
Visit Knowledge Perk to experience seasonal coffee flights.
This small-batch roastery offers a variety of rotating seasonal flavors in a cozy setting. It’s a must-visit for coffee enthusiasts.
Coffee Lovers Tip: Check out our Insider’s Guide to Rock Hill’s Best Coffee Shops.
A seasonal coffee flight at Knowledge Perk in Rock Hill, featuring an assortment of colorful coffee drinks on a wooden paddle, showcasing the coffee shop’s innovative and diverse beverage offerings.
7. Dive into Fun at Ebenezer Park’s Swimming Beach
Ebenezer Park offers a perfect spot for family outings with swimming, picnics, volleyball, and fishing.
Leashed pets are also welcome. There is a small entry fee with discounts available.
Ebenezer Park Swimming Beach, Rock Hill, SC, features a lively waterfront scene with swimmers, sunbathers, and recreational activities against a backdrop of trees and clear skies.
8. Reflect on History at the Freedom Walkway
The Freedom Walkway features murals created by local artists, honoring the Friendship Nine and recognizing Rock Hill’s role in the civil rights movement.
This centrally located, accessible art installation is open to everyone.
The Freedom Walkway in Rock Hill, South Carolina, displays a series of vibrant murals that celebrate the city’s civil rights history, offering an artistic and educational experience for visitors.
9. Savor Culinary Delights at Food Truck Friday
Rock Hill hosts Food Truck Friday at Fountain Park during the summer and early fall.
Enjoy food, music, and activities in a lively atmosphere. Entry is free, but arrive early to avoid long lines.
The lively atmosphere of Food Truck Friday in Rock Hill, SC, capturing a variety of food trucks and people enjoying food, music, and community engagement in a public park setting.
10. Enjoy a Peaceful Picnic at Glencairn Garden
Glencairn Garden offers a picturesque setting for relaxation and photography.
With blooming plants year-round, seating areas, grassy fields, and restrooms, it’s perfect for a picnic.
A serene view of Glencairn Garden in Rock Hill, South Carolina, showcasing its lush greenery, vibrant flowers, and winding paths, inviting visitors to enjoy a peaceful retreat.
11. Unwind at Cambria’s 354 SkyBar
Experience rooftop relaxation at Cambria Hotel’s 354 SkyBar.
Enjoy cocktails, beer, and American cuisine with scenic views, perfect for a date night or gathering with friends.
Cambria’s 354 SkyBar in Rock Hill, SC, showcasing an outdoor rooftop bar setting with stylish seating, patrons enjoying drinks, and a cityscape view, highlighting its appeal as a social and scenic destination.
12. Step Back in Time at The Comporium Telephone Museum
The Comporium Telephone Museum offers a free, interactive experience showcasing the history of communication.
Explore old wooden phones, switchboards, and the first telephone in Rock Hill. It’s an engaging visit for all ages.
Inside The Comporium Telephone Museum in Rock Hill, SC, where vintage telephones and switchboards display the evolution of telecommunications, providing an educational experience.
13. Rejuvenate with Free Yoga at The Green by Fountain Park
Join a free yoga class led by local teachers every Saturday, May through September, at The Green by Fountain Park.
Classes are open to all skill levels, last about an hour, and start at 8 a.m.
A free yoga class at The Green by Fountain Park in Rock Hill, SC, featuring participants in various yoga poses, led by an instructor, under a clear sky.
14. Test Your Skills at Winthrop’s Disc Golf Course
Play a round of disc golf at the scenic Winthrop Gold Disc Golf Course, located off Cherry Road.
The course is open to the public and circles a lake. It’s known for being challenging, so prepare for a test of skill.
Disc golf at Winthrop in Rock Hill, SC, showcasing players navigating a course amidst trees and greenery, emphasizing the park’s recreational offerings.
15. Tour and Taste at Sleeping Giant Distillery
Take a tour of Sleeping Giant Distillery, the county’s first legal distillery since Prohibition.
Enjoy a tasting and support this local, family-owned business. The distillery also participates in the YoCo Brew Trail.
Inside Sleeping Giant Distillery in Rock Hill, SC, featuring a tasting room with displayed spirits and visitors sampling beverages, underscoring the distillery’s craft and hospitality.
16. Stroll Along the Riverwalk Trail
The Riverwalk Trail offers an easy, scenic walk along the Catawba River.
Starting at the kayak and canoe launch point, the trail is about 2.5 miles each way and is great for biking. You’ll find several restaurants and bars nearby.
The Riverwalk Trail in Rock Hill, South Carolina, showcasing a scenic path alongside the Catawba River, with lush greenery and clear skies, ideal for walking, biking, and enjoying the natural landscape.
17. Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth with Local Ice Cream
Rock Hill boasts a variety of ice cream shops:
PWs Ice Cream
A Rock Hill staple since the 90s, PWs offers a range of options from soft serve to banana splits.
PWs Ice Cream in Rock Hill, SC, features a classic ice cream stand with a vibrant exterior, drawing customers in for treats.
Two Scoops
Two Scoops offers homemade ice cream with numerous flavors and toppings.
Two Scoops Ice Cream in Rock Hill, South Carolina, displays a colorful array of ice cream flavors in a cheerful shop, inviting customers to indulge in a sweet treat.
Day & Night Cereal Bar
This spot serves creative bowls and shakes, mixing ice cream and cereal.
The interior of Day & Night Cereal Bar in Rock Hill, showing a whimsical and brightly lit space filled with cereal boxes, creating a playful atmosphere.
Artic Roll
Artic Roll offers bubble tea and rolled ice cream, a trendy twist on a classic treat.
Artic Roll in Rock Hill, SC, featuring staff creating rolled ice cream on a cold plate, offering a visual demonstration of the trendy dessert preparation.
18. Explore Rock Hill’s Parks
Rock Hill features several great parks:
Cherry Park
Cherry Park offers playgrounds, walking trails, biking trails, and outdoor seating.
Cherry Park in Rock Hill, South Carolina, shows a wide-angle view of a playground and open fields, perfect for families and outdoor activities.
Westminster Park
Westminster Park is ideal for peaceful walks along the Catawba River.
Westminster Park in Rock Hill, South Carolina, featuring a scenic trail winding through a wooded area, promoting a peaceful escape into nature.
Miracle Park
Miracle Park is designed to accommodate children with disabilities and is fully fenced for safety.
Miracle Park in Rock Hill, SC, presents an inclusive playground designed for children of all abilities, featuring accessible play structures and colorful surfaces.
19. Support Local Shops in Downtown Rock Hill
Downtown Rock Hill offers unique local shopping experiences:
The Mercantile
The Mercantile offers a mix of house plants, gifts, and stationary, along with coffee from The Jackass Café.
The Mercantile in Rock Hill, SC, showcasing a retail space filled with diverse goods, including plants, gifts, and artisanal items, highlighting its eclectic appeal.
Overhead Station Gift Shop
Overhead Station Gift Shop features local, handmade products perfect for souvenirs and unique gifts.
Overhead Station Gift Shop in Rock Hill, South Carolina, presents a storefront filled with unique and locally crafted items, reflecting its focus on community artistry.
Friends Books
Friends Books on Main is a non-profit shop selling donated books, DVDs, and CDs to support local libraries.
Friends Books on Main in Rock Hill, SC, features shelves stocked with books, providing an inviting space for readers to browse and support the local library system.
Joe’s Video Games
Joe’s Video Games sells used video games, consoles, and arcade machines.
Joe’s Video Games in Rock Hill, filled with an assortment of retro games and consoles, creating a nostalgic atmosphere.
20. Enjoy Gaming and Drinks at Player 1UP Barcade
Player 1UP, Rock Hill’s only arcade bar, offers a fun spot for arcade lovers and gamers.
It has designated family and adult-only times, along with special events and live music.
Inside Player 1UP Arcade in Rock Hill, SC, patrons are shown enjoying arcade games, with neon lights adding to the barcade’s lively ambiance.
21. Experience History at Historic Brattonsville
Historic Brattonsville offers an immersive experience with buildings from the colonial and antebellum eras.
Interact with actors playing characters from the time period and attend special events.
Historic Brattonsville in Rock Hill, SC, featuring preserved historical buildings, providing an authentic glimpse into 18th and 19th-century plantation life.
22. Join a Tennis League at the Rock Hill Tennis Center
The Rock Hill Tennis Center offers social and competitive tennis for all ages, including wheelchair tennis.
The center supports local charities and is part of USTA Flex.
The Rock Hill Tennis Center, showcasing multiple tennis courts with players engaged in matches, emphasizing the center’s facilities and community engagement.
23. Discover New Reads at The Liberty Book Company
The Liberty Book Company is an independent bookstore with a cozy atmosphere.
It offers affordable prices, used book exchanges, and monthly book clubs.
The interior of The Liberty Book Company in Rock Hill, showing a cozy independent bookstore with shelves lined with books, creating a welcoming atmosphere.
24. Stroll Around Manchester Meadows Park
Manchester Meadows Park offers peaceful trails circling a pond and venturing into the woods.
Avoid game days to enjoy a more relaxing experience.
Manchester Meadows Park in Rock Hill, SC, with sports fields and open green spaces, facilitating sports and outdoor activities.
25. Explore the Power House Food Hall
The Power House Food Hall is a gathering place for food, drinks, and entertainment.
It offers a wide selection of food and shops, hosts events, and provides free parking for up to 90 minutes.
Inside the Power House Food Hall in Rock Hill, showcasing various food vendors and seating areas, fostering a community dining experience.
26. Learn About Local Culture at the Catawba Cultural Center
The Catawba Cultural Center offers classes in basket weaving and pottery.
Shop Catawba art, walk trails, and learn the Catawba language.
The Catawba Cultural Center in Rock Hill, South Carolina, highlighting Native American heritage and cultural exhibits.
27. Sample Beers at Hoppin’s Rock Hill Location
Hoppin’ Rock Hill is a local favorite for self-serve beer and cocktails.
Enjoy live music and games in a relaxed setting.
The outdoor seating area at Hoppin’ Rock Hill, is bustling with patrons enjoying drinks and socializing on a sunny day.
28. Relax at Fountain Park
Fountain Park is a quiet oasis in Downtown Rock Hill.
It’s great for reading during the day and offers amazing photoshoot locations at night. The park hosts events like free yoga and movies in the park.
Fountain Park in Rock Hill, South Carolina, featuring a central fountain surrounded by well-maintained gardens and walking paths, offering a serene urban oasis.
29. Witness Extreme Sports at Rock Hill BMX Park or Velodrome
Rock Hill’s BMX park is open to the public for practicing and racing. The Velodrome is a great place to watch live racing.
Rock Hill South Carolina BMX park, presenting a dynamic BMX track with riders in action, showcasing the park’s high-energy sports offerings.
30. Enjoy Local Brews and Burgers at Slow Play Brewing
Slow Play Brewing specializes in craft beer and features music and games.
The Cibi Cibi Food Truck is often on-site, offering delicious food options.
Outdoor dining at Slow Play Brewery, complete with picnic tables, string lights, and patrons enjoying drinks and food, exemplifying its relaxed and inviting atmosphere.
31. Soar Through the Skies at Canaan Zipline Canopy Tours
Canaan Zipline Canopy Tours offers a thrilling way to see Rock Hill from above.
Zipline over the Catawba River and enjoy the scenic views.
A thrilling zipline adventure at Canaan Zipline Canopy Tours in Rock Hill, featuring participants soaring through trees and across the landscape, offering an exhilarating outdoor experience.
32. Find Bargains at The Pallet Place
The Pallet Place offers discounts on a variety of items, including holiday decorations, clothing, and furniture.
The Pallet Place in Rock Hill, showcasing discounted merchandise ranging from home goods to seasonal decor, drawing bargain hunters.
33. Take a Historical Tour of The White Home
The White Home is the headquarters for Historic Rock Hill and dates back to the early 1800s.
Take a tour to learn about Ann White, the “Mother of Rock Hill”.
The White Home in Rock Hill, South Carolina, showcasing a historic building surrounded by lush greenery, preserving the city’s heritage.
34. Jump High at Adventure Air Sports
Adventure Air Sports features trampolines, climbing walls, foam pits, and a ninja course.
It’s a great place for kids to burn energy and adults to test their skills.
Inside Adventure Air Sports in Rock Hill, children engage in trampoline jumping and climbing activities, showcasing the venue’s active entertainment options.
35. Walk Around Winthrop Lake
Winthrop Lake offers a dog-friendly walking trail that is just under a mile long.
It’s a relatively easy walk with scenic views.
Winthrop Lake in Rock Hill, SC, reflecting trees and sky, offering a serene natural setting for recreation and relaxation.
36. Play Pickleball at the Boyd Hill Recreation Center
The Boyd Hill Recreation Center holds weekly pick-up pickleball games.
It also offers disc golf, swimming, basketball, and horseshoe.
Boyd Hill Recreation Center in Rock Hill, showcasing people playing pickleball and enjoying outdoor recreational activities.
37. Go Wakeboarding at the SouthTown Wake Park
SouthTown Wake Park offers courses for all skill levels and hosts regular events.
It also offers membership options for frequent visitors.
The exhilarating SouthTown Wake Park in Rock Hill, featuring a wakeboarder gliding across the water, set against a backdrop of clear skies.
38. Visit the Rock Hill Civil Rights Memorial
The Rock Hill Civil Rights Memorial commemorates South Carolina’s first sit-in at McCrory’s Five and Dime.
Pair this visit with a walk along the Freedom Walkway.
The Rock Hill Civil Rights Memorial, commemorating the Friendship 9 and their significant contribution to the Civil Rights movement.
39. Take Your Kids to the Main Street Children’s Museum
The Main Street Children’s Museum offers activities designed for kids ages six and under.
It features a life-size boat, a Pumpkin House, and hosts special events.
Inside the Main Street Children’s Museum in Rock Hill, children engage with interactive exhibits, sparking creativity and play.
40. Explore the Rock Hill Fire Department Headquarters & Museum
Visit the Rock Hill Fire Department Museum to learn about fire safety.
Reservations are required.
The Rock Hill Fire Department Headquarters & Museum, displaying historic fire trucks and equipment, educating visitors about firefighting history.
41. Practice Target Shooting at Sportsman
Sportsman offers target practice for both seasoned marksmen and beginners.
You can also take part in classes, courses, and defense training.
The interior of Sportsman Target Range in Rock Hill, featuring shooting lanes and safety equipment, providing a secure environment for target practice.
42. Dine at Local Restaurants
Rock Hill offers diverse dining options:
Millstone
Millstone serves excellent pizza and features a rotating tap selection.
Exterior shot of Millstone Restaurant, where modern architecture meets a rustic brick facade, creating a cozy neighborhood pizzeria vibe.
The Flipside Restaurant
The Flipside Restaurant is known for its Southern breakfast and brunch.
A vibrant plate of shrimp and grits from The Flipside Restaurant, is a classic Southern brunch dish with fresh ingredients and colorful garnishes.
Tattooed Brews
Tattooed Brews offers a unique spin on classic finger foods and hosts events like trivia night and karaoke.
The interior of Tattooed Brews, featuring colorful decor and a lively crowd, creating a fun and quirky social hub.
Ay Papi Tacos & Tequila
Ay Papi Tacos & Tequila serves Mexican-fusion cuisine with creative meals and drinks made with seasonal ingredients.
The outdoor seating area at Ay Papi Tacos & Tequila, with festive decor, creating a lively atmosphere for diners.
The Pump House
The Pump House offers Southern-style American cuisine with magnificent views of the Catawba River.
Diners enjoying a meal at The Pump House, with panoramic views of the Catawba River, enhancing the restaurant’s upscale dining experience.
Fun Things To Do Near Rock Hill, SC
43. Challenge Your Taste Buds at Puckerbutt’s Hot Sauce Shop
Test your limits at Puckerbutt’s, home of the Carolina Reaper, located just 20 minutes from Rock Hill.
Shop their creatively named sauces, all locally and organically made, by heat level.
The exterior of Puckerbutt’s Hot Sauce Shop, showcasing a quirky storefront filled with colorful hot sauce bottles, signaling a spicy adventure.
44. Enjoy Local Goods at The Peach Stand
The Peach Stand sells local food and products, including produce, deli items, butcher shop selections, bakery treats, and ice cream.
A roadside market scene at The Peach Stand, displaying fresh produce and local goods, inviting travelers to sample local flavors.
45. Experience Fall at Windy Hill Orchard
Celebrate fall at Windy Hill Orchard with apple picking, cider tasting, hay rides, and cider slush.
Visitors enjoying apple picking at Windy Hill Orchard, with rows of apple trees, exemplifying the fall harvest experience.
46. Pick Your Own Fruit at Bush-N-Vine’s Farm
Bush-N-Vine is the place to go for strawberry picking and sunflower walks.
You can also buy fresh produce if you prefer not to pick your own.
A picturesque scene at Bush-N-Vine Farm, features a colorful field of sunflowers, attracting families for strawberry picking and nature walks.
47. Connect with Nature at Anne Close Springs Greenway
Anne Close Springs Greenway offers hiking, biking, fishing, kayaking, horse riding, and goat yoga.
Visitors enjoying hiking and kayaking at Anne Close Springs Greenway, surrounded by natural beauty, capturing the park’s recreational opportunities.
48. Hike at Scenic State Parks
Enjoy hiking at:
Landsford Canal
Landsford Canal is beautiful when the spider lilies are in bloom.
A tranquil waterway at Landsford Canal State Park, where historic canal structures blend with natural beauty, creating a scenic retreat.
Andrew Jackson State Park
Andrew Jackson State Park is a must-visit during the fall to see a rare and endangered species of sunflower.
Visitors exploring the historic Andrew Jackson State Park, featuring heritage landmarks and natural settings that highlight South Carolina’s past.
Chester State Park
Chester State Park is great for birdwatching in the spring and features a spillway that creates the appearance of a waterfall.
A tranquil lake at Chester State Park, surrounded by lush greenery, inviting visitors to enjoy nature and engage in recreational activities.
49. Watch a Water-Skiing Show at Windjammer Park
See the Carolina Show Ski Team perform at Windjammer Park.
Arrive early for
