Families in Bluffton and visitors to the area now have an exciting new destination to enjoy—New Riverside Barn Park.
The park officially opened on February 22 with a vibrant Park Party that brought together town leaders, residents, and visitors. The grand opening celebrations drew a large crowd to mark the occasion. It included a ribbon-cutting ceremony and an interactive children’s show with local legend Jevon Daly.
Located at 200 New Riverside Road, New Riverside Barn Park is at the intersection of Highways 46 and 170. It covers 37 acres. The new park serves as a centerpiece for community activities. It features a large event rental space, scenic public trails, a modern playground, picnic shelters and an area for food trucks.
The New Riverside Barn Park is part of a capital project by the Town of Bluffton. The property was purchased by the Town in 2019 for $200,000. Its design encompasses walking trails, an amphitheater with grassy gathering areas, playgrounds, and more.
New Riverside Barn Park is currently in the first phase of its development.
This phase focuses on creating a passive park experience, with future phases promising even more amenities. The second phase, scheduled to open in late 2025, is the renovation of the park’s iconic barn into an event venue. The barn is expected to be ready for rental by early 2026.
The project’s funding was made possible in part by a $10 million bond approved by Bluffton Town Council. The funding came from the town’s Tax Increment Financing Bonds.
The Barn’s Story
Originally built in 2005 by Palmetto Bluff’s owners as a landmark for the area, the barn is now being reimagined as a versatile event space. Plans include the addition of a porch, terrace, garden entrance, restrooms, a warming kitchen, and a service area for deliveries. The revamped barn will be rentable for events such as weddings, parties, and rehearsal dinners.
This expansive park will be a community hub for recreational opportunities for its residents and visitors.
Open from sunrise to sunset. For information about the playground and park, please get in touch with the Town of Bluffton at 843-706-4500
Source: https://www.blufftontoday.com, Town of Bluffton Government, https://www.facebook.com/TownBlufftonSC.
