For this month’s Rock Hill Coca-Cola Bottling Company Picnic Trip, we’ll stay a little closer to home. From anywhere in the Rock Hill area, you’re only a few minutes drive to Glencairn Garden. If you’re anywhere near Winthrop University’s campus, you can take your picnic trip on foot the next pleasant spring day.
Location and Hours of Operation
Glencairn Garden is located at 725 Crest Street. The grounds are open from dawn to dusk.
History
In 1928 David and Hazel Bigger started a 6 acre backyard garden. In 1959, that beautifully crafted space was further developed by landscape architect Robert Marvin into a public space for all of Rock Hill to enjoy. That project has since expanded into include 11 acres of grounds.
What to See
At this time of year (late March into early April), Glencairn Garden shows its best. At that time, the whole garden is awash in blooms from dogwoods, redbuds, and most notable, the dozens of azaleas in a profusion of gorgeous spring color. You might also expect to see daffodils, water irises, and flowering fruit trees: cherry and Japanese apricot.
You’ll also want to check out the Cascade Fountain and Pond, part of the original section of the garden.
Don’t forget to stop by the Bigger House for more information about the garden and to peruse the options for a picnic trip souvenir.
Come See Me
Glencairn Garden was the original inspiration for Rock Hill’s perennial favorite, the Come See Me Festival. You can read more about 2022’s Come See Me here. Seeing the garden in the quiet of a personal picnic trip is a whole different experience compared to the exciting bustle of Come See Me. Be sure to enjoy Glencairn both ways.
The Picnic Part
Pack everything up. Stick a blanket in there, as you’ll want to spread out in one of the myriad locations throughout Glencairn Garden that are ideal for outdoor meal. Plan to spend an hour or so more strolling the garden and taking in all that Rock Hill’s little gem of a spot has to offer.
Next Month
Where we will we head to next month? Check back in April to see!