How to Add Horizontal Scrolling in Squarespace (No Coding Required)
Looking to give your Squarespace site a modern twist? Horizontal scrolling is a slick way to showcase portfolios, project galleries, or immersive content—like a digital slideshow that grabs attention. Think of it as a fresh alternative to the usual up-and-down scroll, perfect for creatives, photographers, or anyone with a story to tell sideways.
Squarespace doesn’t offer this feature natively, but you don’t need to be a coder to make it happen. With the right plugin, you can set it up in minutes. Below, I’ve rounded up two of the best no-code solutions—SQS Mods and SquareKicker—plus a free workaround for the budget-savvy. Let’s get scrolling!
Why Use Horizontal Scrolling?
Before we dive in, why bother? Horizontal scrolling stands out. It’s ideal for:
Portfolios: Display images or projects side-by-side.
Storytelling: Guide visitors through a narrative, like a timeline.
Unique Vibes: Break the mold of traditional layouts for a memorable site.
Ready to try it? Here are your top options.
Option 1: SQS Mods - Horizontal Scroll Plugin
The SQS Mods Horizontal Scroll Plugin is a lightweight, affordable way to add horizontal scrolling to Squarespace 7.1. It’s perfect if you want a quick setup without fuss.
Features
Quick 5-minute setup
Works with Squarespace 7.1 (Business Plan or higher)
Switches to vertical scrolling on mobile for usability
No coding skills needed
Limitations
Doesn’t play nice with WEBGL background effects
Sections need a limited height (browser quirk)
No support for Firefox or Internet Explorer
How to Set It Up
Grab the plugin from SQS Mods.
Follow their guide to pop the script into your Squarespace site (Settings > Advanced > Code Injection).
Group your sections in the editor for a smooth horizontal flow.
Preview, tweak, and publish!
Cost: Around $25 (one-time)—check the latest price on their site.
Best for: Fast, simple scrolling on a budget.
Option 2: SquareKicker - Horizontal Scroll Design Extension
SquareKicker takes it up a notch with a drag-and-drop tool baked into Squarespace’s editor. It’s pricier but offers more creative control.
Features
Available on Pro, Designer, or Agency plans
Turns multiple sections into a horizontal track
Custom scrolling direction, transitions, and fixed backgrounds
No coding—just tweak it in the editor
Limitations
Requires a SquareKicker subscription (starts at $12/month for Pro)
Overkill for basic needs
How to Set It Up
Sign up for SquareKicker (Pro, Designer, or Agency—or start with their free trial).
In your Squarespace editor, pick a section to scrollify.
Open SquareKicker’s Section Tools > Advanced Tab.
Toggle on horizontal scrolling, play with settings, and preview.
Save and publish your masterpiece.
Cost: $12-$36/month depending on your plan.
Best for: Designers craving customization and animations.
Option 3: Free Workaround (No Plugin Needed)
Short on cash? You can fake horizontal scrolling with Squarespace’s built-in tools. It’s not perfect, but it works!
How to Do It
Create a gallery section (e.g., “Gallery” block or page).
Add images or content side-by-side in a single row.
Use CSS to hide overflow and enable horizontal scrolling:
Go to Design > Custom CSS.
Paste:
.gallery-section { overflow-x: auto; white-space: nowrap; } .gallery-section img { display: inline-block; }
Test it—scroll sideways with your mouse or finger!
✅ Pros & ⚠️ Cons
Pros: Free, no plugins, works on any plan.
Cons: Limited to galleries, less smooth than plugins, and requires basic CSS (sorry, not totally no-code).
Best for: Experimenters or small sites with simple needs.
Final Thoughts
Horizontal scrolling can turn your Squarespace site into a standout, whether you’re showing off a killer portfolio or a creative layout. SQS Mods keeps it simple and wallet-friendly, SquareKicker gives you design superpowers, and the free trick gets you started for nothing. No coding, no stress—just a cool new way to navigate.
Which one’s calling your name? Drop a comment below—I’d love to help you pick the perfect fit!