Best Things to Do in Fort Mill

‌Though it’s technically in South Carolina, Fort Mill’s heart beats for Charlotte, North Carolina. It is considered a suburb of the Queen City, but does have its own special rhythm. 

Established in 1873, Fort Mill was so named because it was right in between a fort and a mill. It grew into a textile town and then into the suburb of Charlotte we know today.

Living in Fort Mill is full of wonderful opportunities for you and your family, especially if you live in a new home by DRB Homes. We bring over 30 years of building excellence into communities to this fantastic Southern town, and make sure every home is perfect—which is what our homeowners deserve! By combining the most sought-after features, finishes, spaces, and technologies that new homebuyers desire, DRB Homes continues offering only the best with new homes in the Fort Mill Township region.

Come with us on a tour as we show off the best things to do in Fort Mill!

New Homes in Fort Mill

First, though, you need to find your homebase in Fort Mill. We proudly recommend the coming-soon townhomes of Towns at Baxter Village. Just a few steps away from home, enjoy the locally owned shops and restaurants of nearby Baxter Village. There’s also a fantastic system of trails that’s great for hikers and bikers to get some exercise in the great outdoors.

And inside your new home in this exceptional community, you’ll enjoy a meticulously designed floor plan created to make sure life is wonderful. From the open floor plans to the expansive gourmet kitchen, every space will surround you with high-end features and finishes. Oversized sliding doors lead to your deck’s private outdoor space, while plenty of windows bring that outdoor light in.

You’ll also adore the primary bedroom with generous walk-in closet and luxurious bath with dual vanity and tile shower. It’s the perfect place to unwind after a day of adventuring and loving your life in Fort Mill. But what will that life be like? Keep reading to learn more!

Fort Mill Historical Attractions

Preserving much of its textile-town past, the Fort Mill Downtown Historic District has some buildings that date back over 150 years. Here, old locations share space with new boutiques, and the world’s hottest pepper is ready to roast your insides. Two of our favorite places to visit are the Fort Mill History Museum and the Catawba Cultural Center.

Fort Mill History Museum

Full of everything from old photographs to letters to artifacts, the Fort Mill History Museum brings it all under one roof. This free museum offers multiple exhibits chronicling the past of Fort Mill from before settlers through today. There are also many events and tours available, both in the museum and throughout Historic Downtown. This is an amazing destination to become more connected with the community and its past.

The Catawba Cultural Center

To truly learn how people lived here before Fort Mill was Fort Mill, you need to visit the Catawba Cultural Center. Preserving, cataloging, and teaching the culture, language, folklore, history, and more of the land’s native peoples, there is so much to do and learn here. Dive into the world of the Catawba Nation and even take home a small part of it (while supporting this amazing center and its programs) at the Trading Post gift shop.

Fort Mill Outdoor Adventures

Fort Mill is a town that celebrates fun in the great outdoors. With many neighborhood parks, it’s easy to find a place to get back to nature. Fort Mill also enjoys three golf courses: Fort Mill Golf Club, Springfield Golf Club, and Tega Cay Golf Club. Two things we want to highlight as you explore the outdoors at Fort Mill is the Anne Springs Close Greenway and the abundance of kayaking and fishing opportunities.

Anne Springs Close Greenway

The massive natural preserve Anne Springs Close Greenway spreads out across 2,100 acres of picturesque wilderness. Here, you can explore historic buildings via 40 miles of trails, mountain bike alongside lakes and through hardwood forests, enjoy various watersports, experience the local flora and fauna on horseback, and so much more. With unique classes, programs, and camps, a day at Anne Springs Close Greenway will always leave you excited to come back for more.

Kayaking and Fishing

‌Two things you will definitely want to do at Anne Springs Close Greenway—and at other areas in Fort Mill—are kayaking and fishing. Both single and tandem kayaks are seasonally available to rent on the weekends, but you can always bring your own any time. Fishing is also allowed (for members with SC fishing license) in four different lakes and one pond in the preserve. So much to do on the water, and a great way to get your whole family involved in the outdoor fun.

Family Fun in Fort Mill

Of course, your family will enjoy all the adventures found in the previous sections, like exploring the Catawba Cultural Center or kayaking on one of Anne Springs Close Greenway’s many lakes. But there are other amusements that your family will enjoy again and again. From Carowinds Amusement Park to all the many local parks and playgrounds

Carowinds Amusement Park

Just about 7 miles away, partially across the border into North Carolina, is Carowinds Amusement Park. For 50 years, Carowinds has been delighting families in the area with its rides and entertainment. Over 60 world-class rides—including 14 roller coasters—are ready to make you giggle and scream, while over 20 restaurants and food stops are prepared to fill your stomach with everything from carnival fare to down-home Southern classics. There’s also Carolina Harbor Waterpark for even more attractions and dining (with a wet and wild twist). Add live entertainment and seasonal special celebrations, and your family will never want to leave. Good thing there’s an on-site hotel and campground with free shuttle service to the parks!

Local Parks and Playgrounds

Eight local parks (and one community center and YMCA) provide green space and recreational activities all around Fort Mill. From the new baseball fields at Banks Athletic Park, to the playgrounds at Doby Bridge Park, to the seasonal Water Spray Park at Steele Street Park, to the serene beauty of Walter Y. Elisha Park (see more about this below), everyone will very quickly have their own favorite park to enjoy. And because there are so many, you can relax in a different one on a two-month rotation and connect to the town like never before.

Fort Mill Arts and Culture

Prepare to be dazzled by the eclectic mix of artistic expressions and the rich tapestry of cultural experiences that Fort Mill has to offer. From stunning galleries showcasing local talent to captivating theater performances that transport you to another world, Fort Mill is a haven for art enthusiasts and culture aficionados alike.

Fort Mill Community Playhouse

Fort Mill Community Playhouse has been enriching this area for over 40 years. Performing musicals, comedies, dramas, and even youth pieces, Fort Mill Community Playhouse excites and inspires the community through the performing arts. Everyone is invited to audition, and rehearsals on in the evenings to not interfere with work schedules. This is a true community-wide theatrical enterprise that unites Fort Mill. There are even summer camps for students to enjoy!

Art Galleries and Studios

There are quite a number of art galleries and studios around Fort Mill. The great thing is, most of them don’t just show art, but also teach it! One such goldmine of creativity is Chelsea and Savannah Art Studio. Here, you’ll not only get to view art on display, but also be learn in various arts and crafts classes taught by professional artists. Likewise, for Olive’s Mud Puddle. Here’s you’ll not only enjoy walls lined with local art and amazing classes, but you’ll also be treated to a delicious coffee shop! And always check out the York County Arts Council for more artistic opportunities and art galleries in and around Fort Mill.

Food and Drink in Fort Mill

Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with an array of unique and mouthwatering culinary experiences in Fort Mill. Whether you're a foodie on the hunt for the next hidden gem or simply looking to enjoy a quick meal, or craving Southern comfort food or something more adventurous, Fort Mill's diverse and delectable culinary landscape is sure to satisfy even the most discerning palate. Get ready to discover an edible adventure, where flavors harmonize and daring flavors entice!

Local Restaurants and Cafés

Find the places that locals eat, and you’re guaranteed to have a great meal. The great thing about Fort Mill is there are many places locals love to eat. One such establishment is The Improper Pig. This is Southern BBQ at its best, featuring pulled pork, brisket, ribs, and more—some served in new ways! While we’re exploring animals, you’ll also want to sample the fare at The Lucky Duck. This is tavern food at its best: burgers, sandwiches, and tacos, all made with love. One more we need to mention is The Flipside Café, a family-friendly place to get a grilled salmon BLT for lunch and bacon-wrapped meatloaf for dinner. Simply delicious.

Local Breweries

Fort Mill also has our fair share of local breweries. Amor Artis Brewing is a family-owned brewery that focuses on great flavor and superlative quality, all while providing for and strengthening its community. Replay Brewing is another favorite, offering perfectly crafted beers and fantastic quick bites, all surrounded by vintage arcade and pinball machines. And if you’re looking for more of a craft brewery adventure, check out the YoCo Brew Trail. This county-wide takes you around York County exploring and sampling the liquid delights of over a dozen local breweries. Get your passport at any brewery on the trail and, once you’ve visited at least 10 locations, you can stop by the York County Visitor’s Center or Anne Springs Greenway Gateway Canteen and get a free YoCo Brew Trail pint glass!

Local Shopping in Fort Mill

From quaint boutiques to bustling farmers markets, this charming town offers a treasure trove of unique shopping experiences. Whether you're in search of handcrafted jewelry, locally sourced produce, or one-of-a-kind vintage finds, Fort Mill has it all. Grab your shopping list, expect to uncover surprise finds, and get ready to discover the hidden gems that make this community so special.

Boutique Shops

Crossings on Main bills itself as a “happy shop for giving people.” Offering accessories, gifts, and home décor, this is the place to find that special gift for that special someone. Another shop that serves to add beauty to the world is R. Hanauer Fine Accessories. This is the place to come when you need to look your best, with hand-made bow ties of the highest quality. They also have ties, cummerbunds, and other accessories to help you dress up just right. But Fort Mill also has a world-record holder in its midst: Puckerbutt Pepper Company. Creators and growers of the previous world-record hottest pepper (the Carolina Reaper) and the new world-record hottest pepper (Pepper X), Puckerbutt Pepper Company offers products made with these peppers that are sure to create instant memories.

Farmers Markets

You can’t be surrounded by beautiful green space without enjoying a local farmer’s market, and Fort Mill is no exception. There’s the seasonal Fort Mill Farmers Market held on Saturdays in Veterans Park, where you can purchase local produce, agricultural products, and handmade items. There’s also Spring Farm: a local favorite since 1938! Find delicious fruit, produce, homemade soft serve ice cream, and more. Nothing beats fresh ice cream on the farm! There’s also The Peach Stand, your one-stop shop for local groceries. With a custom butcher shop, restaurant and deli, bakery, ice cream parlor, and local food section, The Peach Stand provides all the ingredients you need to make mouths happy.

Fort Mill’s Seasonal Events and Festivals

The changing seasons bring an array of exciting events and festivals to Fort Mill that delight both locals and visitors. Get ready to immerse yourself in the unique charm and spirit of this picturesque town as we explore just a few of the seasonal events and festivals that make Fort Mill come alive.

One of the main festivals you’ll come to know and love is the annual Strawberry Festival. Expect pageants, scavenger hunts, golf tournaments, sprint & strolls, soirees, brunches, and more all centering around the delicious strawberry. Live music, rides, vendors, and food surround you for a day like no other all in Walter Elisha Park.

Another seasonal event to enjoy is the Fort Mill Fall Festival. Again in Walter Elisha Park, and including the Fort Mill Amphitheater, this celebration brings together the best of local music, food, special events for kids, and a whole lot of fun. Plus, since it’s so close to Halloween, there’s a costume contest!

The other place to visit for seasonal excitement is Carowinds Amusement Park, which has specially themed events planned throughout the year. Two worth mentioning are SCarowinds, a horrifying and scream-inducing Halloween event, and Carowinds Winterfest, a magical holiday event of lights and ice and family activities galore.  

Fort Mill, South Carolina

Fort Mill offers an extensive array of compelling and exciting activities, delicious local restaurants, quirky and downhome boutiques, amazing culture and history, beautiful natural surrounds, and compelling and fun family-friendly activities. It’s a little town with a bit of everything.

And when you are looking to find your forever home in Fort Mill, look no further than DRB Homes. Our decades of experience, personalized options, award-winning team, and commitment to quality ensures that one of the best things to do in Fort Mill is love your brand-new home!