Planning some mom time and in need of kid-friendly things to do with Dads in Greenville, SC? We’re here to help with some Kidding Around and reader-tested ideas. Here’s a list of some of our favorite places in Greenville that would be perfect for Dad to enjoy with the kids. We have lots of free ideas and some low-cost options, too!Â
First off, let me say I think barring spa days or makeovers (and even then maybe so for the more open-minded guys), dads pretty much can interact with their kids the same as moms. However, there are certain activities and venues that may appeal more to male parents than mommies.
So after brainstorming with my husband, here are a few suggestions we thought of. Some are free except for optional refreshment purchases and while others do cost a little, they’re something well worth the fee. Many are indoors so no worries about the weather turning bad! Hopefully, you’ll be able to check them out soon for a little paternal bonding. Plus, he’ll love that he is getting to do something he enjoys that the kids will enjoy as well.
Fun Things to Do With Dads in Greenville, SC
Miniature Golf
The course at McPherson Park is free but you need your own clubs. You will also find a mini golf course at the Greenville Downtown Airport at Takeoff Mini Golf. The golf course there is pretty cool because you can watch planes take off while you play.
Or, check out the new Take-Off Mini Golf by the Downtown Airport Park.
Bass Pro Shop
There’s the fish tank, tons of displays, video games, archery, etc. Bass Pro Shop also has a little cafe inside and gives out samples of their homemade fudge as well as occasional other items such as nuts or jerky. Dads love the wide variety of outdoor merchandise; kids love having such a cool place to go with dad!
The Children’s Museum of the Upstate
The main floor at The Children’s Museum of the Upstate seems almost specifically designed for dads! There are car racing exhibit and a wind tunnel, just to name a few. There’s the body exhibit where dads can test their strength and chase kiddos down the digestion slide. Then the dads can chill while watching them go up and down the giant climber!
The third floor features the awesome trash monster, as well as a construction zone and mini golf course. You will also find a giant chess board beside the STEM room.
Then the bottom level features crafts, a water works splash system, the cafe, the marsh music making room, and a really neat sensory area. Plus, you can head outside from here to let the kids play on Bib’s World playground while Dad relaxes.
Dave & Buster’s
Dave & Buster’s has a lot going on, including a bar and grill with TVs showing all the sports games, plus an arcade full of video games. They regularly have special pricing offers, and there’s a rewards program with a free birthday gift, appetizer specials, and various other deals.
Pittman Park
Pittman Park has a nice playground, walking trail, and soccer fields, which are also suitable for kite flying. Plus this park is centrally located between Woodruff Road and Pelham Road, as well as being near I-385 and I-85. It’s one of our favorite spots to get out our wiggles!
RELATED: See our list of the 5 Playgrounds in Greenville that Your Kids Will Beg You Not to Leave
The Mall
Do some shopping at all the cool store’s mom passes by or just chill at the play area then hit the food court. The Haywood Mall is always a nice fall-back for rainy or cold days when having somewhere to roam is essential.
Car Shows/Air Shows
Cars & Coffee has free monthly car shows but there are various other shows throughout the year. In addition to various special events, the Greenville Downtown Airport has special planes flying in all the time. You can catch a few most days while playing at the Runway Park or grabbing a burger (beer optional) at the Runway Cafe.
RELATED: Scavenger Hunt for Runway Park
The Swamp Rabbit Trail
Bike, hike, jog, even geocache, whatever your heart desires but then take a pit stop at Swamp Rabbit Cafe or Sidewall Pizza, or any of the many other spots along this fabulous trail. Dad, you can find a plethora of things to do on the Swamp Rabbit Trail in our guide to the entire trail.
Chick fil-A
Chick-fil-A hosts various family events. Find the location nearest you and look up their happenings. Daddy has found them to be one of his favorite spots to pass the time when he’s on his own with the kiddos and they’re usually free as well as weatherproof.
Travelers Rest
Downtown TR is a great place for Dad and the kids to stay busy. Visit the driving range in Downtown TR so Dad can teach the kids how to hit golf balls. Then head to TReehouse Art Cafe for coffee or lunch plus an art project for the kids.
BONUS!
Bowling
While this may be a bit tough with toddlers, the bowling alley is a fun spot to hang with dear old dad. Remember to request bumpers for your lane if you have some very young or just inexperienced bowlers.
Frankie’s Fun Park
Though you can easily spend a lot of money in the arcade at Frankie’s, one of my husband’s go-to “daughter date night” ideas is to head to Frankie’s with our four-year-old to ride the go-karts. They can usually get in a go-kart ride, and then play some arcade games, for less than $25.
Paris Mountain State Park
With a low entrance fee and several activities that are great for all ages, Paris Mountain State Park is such a great thing for dads to do with their kids. They can swim, kayak, paddleboat, hike, and there is even a playground! Plus, in September and October, there is Music in the Woods at the Amphitheatre where Dad can enjoy some bluegrass while watching the kids dance around.
Main Event
This one-stop shop for entertainment is a great idea if Dad is stuck on what to do. Main Event has bowling, laser tag, an arcade, VR games, a restaurant, billiards, and more! This would make a great time for dads who have a night out with the kids!
Also, be sure to check our Greenville Calendar for even more ideas!
Do you have an outing for Daddy to add to our list?
This article was originally written by Lindy Wilson and has been updated by the Kidding Around Team.
