Looking for a park in the Lexington area that has it all? Virginia Hylton Park features a splash pad, renovated playground, multiple hiking trails, picnic shelters, and free admission. Here’s everything you need to know to plan your family’s visit.
Virginia Hylton Park was recently renovated and updated, and wow! It’s beautiful! One of the things we loved most about this park prior to renovations was how natural it felt nestled among all the trees, and what do we love now?! That it is still that way! They managed to design a gorgeous park without compromising the natural beauty!
Nestled just beyond the main street downtown and seconds away from Icehouse Amphitheater, this park is great for kids, adults, and everyone in between. Spend an hour or spend the day. Regardless, you need to check this park out!
Quick Facts: Virginia Hylton Park
- Location: 111 Maiden Lane, Lexington, SC 29072 (behind Town Hall)
- Hours: Sunrise to sunset, daily
- Admission: Free!
- Splash Pad: Open May 1 through season end, sunrise to sunset
- Playground: Yes, recently renovated with soft, padded ground material
- Hiking Trails: Multiple paved, accessible trails throughout the park
- Picnic Shelters: 8 small shelters, first-come, first-served
- Restrooms: Yes, conveniently located near the splash pad
- Pets: Leashed pets allowed (6-foot max; not permitted on playground or splash pad)
- Parking: Free parking in designated areas
Virginia Hylton Park is one of those places that truly has something for every member of the family. Named in honor of Virginia Hylton, a dedicated Town Council Member from 1981 to 1998, this park originally opened in 1991. After a two-year renovation and expansion project that added 8.5 acres, the park reopened in 2024 better than ever.
The Splash Pad
They have a sophisticated-looking splash pad that could honestly be just as aesthetically pretty as decorative fountains! Both sides of the beautiful splash pad areas are lined with a ledge perfect for seating, as well as trees offering some shade now and promising abundant shade as they grow over time.
The splash pad area is long and narrow. It’s easier (in my opinion) to keep an eye on your kids and also avoid collisions that may occur from kids darting back and forth across your traditional circular splash pad.
Restrooms are conveniently located close to the splash pad, and both are the first things you walk by when entering the park. Talk about planning for convenience! Well done, Town of Lexington.
The Playground
There are several ways to enter the playground below, and lots of shaded areas to get a quick break from the sun. The ground material on the playground area is exceptionally soft and padded. They have lots and lots of equipment on the hive playground area as well as swings and baby swings. Plenty of space for everyone to play!
They also have drinking fountains, which is a huge plus for these South Carolina summers!
Hiking Trails and Bridges
There are multiple hiking trails throughout the park, paved paths, picturesque bridges over the creek, and so many cute little spots to sit and relax, including swings. The renovation project doubled the length of the trails and made them fully paved and accessible for all visitors. You really can spend a whole afternoon exploring.
Picnic Shelters and the Azalea Amphitheater
There are 8 small picnic shelters available on a first-come, first-served basis, so pack a lunch and make a day of it! The park also features the Azalea Amphitheater, a smaller venue with stepped seating and swings. It can be rented for events through the Town of Lexington’s Events Coordinator at (803) 951-4636.
More Things We Love About This Park
- Geocaching: There are several geocaches hidden throughout the park. If your family hasn’t tried geocaching yet, this is a great place to start!
- Koi Pond: The park features a lovely koi pond that’s fun for little ones to discover.
- Teen Hangout Area: One section was designed with input from local teenagers and features a large-scale checkerboard. Perfect for older kids who tag along with younger siblings.
- Leashed Pets Welcome: Bring the whole family, fur babies included (6-foot leash required; pets not allowed on the playground or splash pad).
- Free Admission: You really can’t beat free.
Tips for Your Visit
- The splash pad is open seasonally starting May 1. Plan accordingly!
- Bring water bottles. There are drinking fountains, but having your own is always a plus in the SC heat.
- Pack a picnic lunch. The shelters are first-come, first-served, so arriving earlier gives you the best pick.
- The park is located behind Lexington Town Hall. Use the Virginia Hylton Park Parking Map to find the best spot.
- Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.
- Wear comfortable shoes for the trails. They’re paved but cover quite a bit of ground!
Grab a Bite Nearby
Lots of great spots nearby to grab a bite! The park is just steps from downtown Lexington’s Main Street, so you have plenty of options.
Cinnamon Roll Deli (309 South Lake Dr) just opened their Lexington location and it’s already a hit. Famous for their cinnamon rolls (obviously), plus breakfast sandwiches and grits bowls. Open Monday through Friday 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Saturday through Sunday 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Second Wave Coffee and More (529 S Lake Dr) is a local favorite with great coffee, a used bookstore, and a cozy library room. It’s dog-friendly and kid-friendly. Open Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday through Sunday 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
And there are so many more restaurants and shops along Main Street worth exploring!
Our Honest Take
We are genuinely impressed with what the Town of Lexington did with this renovation. They managed to modernize and expand the park while keeping its natural beauty completely intact. The splash pad is stunning, the playground is well-designed with that gloriously soft padding, and the trails are perfect for a family stroll or a more adventurous hike. The fact that it’s all free? Chef’s kiss. This park deserves to be on every family’s list.
Frequently Asked Questions About Virginia Hylton Park
Where is Virginia Hylton Park located?
Virginia Hylton Park is located at 111 Maiden Lane, Lexington, SC 29072, right behind Lexington Town Hall. It’s just steps from downtown Main Street and close to Icehouse Amphitheater.
Is Virginia Hylton Park free?
Yes! Admission to Virginia Hylton Park is completely free. The park is open daily from sunrise to sunset.
When is the splash pad open at Virginia Hylton Park?
The splash pad opens for the season on May 1 and runs from sunrise to sunset daily during the season.
Are dogs allowed at Virginia Hylton Park?
Yes, leashed pets are welcome at Virginia Hylton Park. Dogs must be on a maximum 6-foot leash and are not allowed on the playground or splash pad areas. Please clean up after your pet.
Are the trails at Virginia Hylton Park stroller-friendly?
Yes! The trails were fully paved with concrete during the 2024 renovation and are graded to be accessible. Strollers and wheelchairs can navigate the trails comfortably.
Are there restrooms at Virginia Hylton Park?
Yes, restrooms are conveniently located near the splash pad and park entrance.
More Fun
- Looking for more splash pad fun? Check out our guide to 30+ Places For Your Family to Cool Off, Splash Around, and Swim Near Columbia, SC!
- Love a good park review? You might also enjoy our write-up on Guignard Park: The Perfect Shady Place to Play, Splash, and Enjoy Nature.
- Looking for a hike nearby? Don’t miss Peachtree Rock Heritage Preserve: A Hidden Falls Hike in Lexington, SC!
Want even more free fun? Check out 10+ Completely Free Things to Do in Columbia, SC This Summer!
Check out all the great parks and playgrounds in Columbia, SC