At the Chef’s Table: A Unique Way to Experience Greenville’s Food and History

🌟 Looking for a creative date-day idea or a local experience in Greenville, SC? At The Chef’s Table from Greenville History & Culinary Tours offers an unforgettable way to explore Greenville through delicious food and interesting history.

I’ve lived in Greenville my whole life, and I thought I knew every nook and cranny of downtown Greenville. That is, until I took one of Greenville’s history tours, At The Chef’s Table, with John Nolan. This 2.5-hour walking tour blended the rich history of downtown Greenville with some of downtown’s most delicious restaurants.

It turned out to be one of the best date days my husband and I have ever had! It’s easy, fun, and absolutely delicious, the kind of food tour that will make anyone, from lifelong Greenvillians to first-time visitors, fall in love with the city. We loved the Saturday afternoon tour, but John also offers an At the Chef’s Table Tuesday Night tour as well!

Special thanks to John Nolan of Greenville History & Culinary Tours for inviting us on this tour.

The Storyteller Guiding Greenville’s History Tours

Local author and historian John Nolan has combined two of his greatest passions, Greenville’s rich history and booming culinary industry, into one unforgettable experience. His At the Chef’s Table tour takes guests on a walking culinary adventure through some of downtown Greenville’s best restaurants, complete with fascinating stories, historic photos, and relaxed conversation. After over 18 years of providing historic tours of Greenville, John has gotten really good at his job!

Greenville’s food scene has absolutely taken off in recent years. The city is now home to talented, creative chefs who blend local and international flavors to craft dishes that are as memorable as the stories behind them. All of the stops on the tour feature Table 301 restaurants, known for shaping Greenville’s modern dining culture with innovation and heart. John has created something special and unique, really showcasing how wonderful downtown Greenville is. It’s really interesting to think about the massive transformation the area has gone through in a little over a century.

At The Chef’s Table Tour: A Bite-Sized Preview

Dining at the Lazy Goat — Dining at The Lazy Goat

The Lazy Goat: Mediterranean Flavors to Start

Our first stop was The Lazy Goat, and from the moment we walked in, we felt like VIPs. The sous chef personally introduced the menu, describing how each course had been curated just for our group; many items weren’t even on the regular menu.

We started with tender lamb served with harissa sauce, creamy goat cheese, and a perfectly paired wine (I don’t drink wine often, but I trust that the flavors melded well). Then came one of Lazy Goat’s signature dishes: fried goat cheese balls with pistachio. Crispy, tangy, and melt-in-your-mouth perfect, these were so good! The staff shared how the restaurant takes inspiration from Mediterranean flavors with the idea that the flavors are meant to heighten one another. When Kristina went on the tour a couple of years back, her experience had her asking for “Just. One. More. Bite. My eyes were fighting with my full stomach as I stared down the dark chocolate tart at The Lazy Goat.”

It was the perfect way to begin our Greenville culinary experience. We learned about the various clocks that line the wall of The Lazy Goat behind our table, and were reminded to take the time to enjoy the our meal and the people we are sharing it with.

Strolling Through History on the Riverwalk

Between restaurants, John guided us on short, easy walks through downtown Greenville, pointing out pieces of history you’d probably miss on your own. We learned about the original Duke’s Mayonnaise plant, an old cigar factory, and how the area along the Reedy River once had train tracks running right through what’s now the Riverwalk, where artist studios and the Swamp Rabbit Trail collide.

He brought a binder along full of old photos and stories that made it feel like we were walking through time. I have lived in the Greenville area my entire life, and I learned things I’d never heard before, which made me appreciate Greenville’s growth even more. This part of the Greenville history tour made the day feel just as enriching as it was delicious, and John snuck in little tidbits of knowledge throughout each stop of the tour.

Soby’s: A Taste of Transformation

Next up was Soby’s New South Cuisine, a literal Greenville staple. One of the most interesting parts about how Soby’s came to be is how many times the building transformed over the past century (I’ll let John tell you more about that). Now, Soby’s is one of Greenville’s top restaurants. Table 301’s vision to revitalize the building that houses Soby’s helped spark downtown’s culinary revival, beginning in the 1990’s, and it’s easy to see why.

Here, we were served one of our favorite dishes on the tour, which included a Southwestern-inspired breakfast dish with the softest short rib and a yummy runny egg; it was so savory! The meal was paired perfectly with the sommelier’s chosen wine. The chef came out to tell us about the ingredients and inspiration, and it was fun learning about why he chose the flavors he did. Our seat at Soby’s was right near the kitchen, so we could sneak a peek at what was going on behind the scenes while we ate.

Shrimp and Grits at Nose Dive in Downtown Greenville — Shrimp and Grits from Nose Dive

Take a Nose Dive into Elevated Southern Food

A short stroll later, we found ourselves at Nose Dive, where comfort food meets creativity. We were served a true Southern classic, but with a twist. Shrimp and grits, but with a rich, savory gravy that had my mouth watering a little when they sat in on the table in front of me. We had little mini mimosas on the side, one of Nose Dive’s specialties!

While we ate, John pointed out nearby architecture and how the building transformed into what it is today, and how you can still find some of the original building’s massive cabinetry right across the street. It was the perfect blend of storytelling and dining, exactly what makes this Greenville culinary tour such a unique way to see the city.

CAMP – A Sweet Finish

Of course, my favorite meal was the dessert to end our tour. Every good meal deserves a grand finale, and CAMP delivered. For one thing, CAMP is so gorgeous and modern inside. It just felt so cozy, which I feel like is a very hard combination to achieve, but they did it! We were seated near the kitchen entrance and immediately greeted by the pastry chef. They served us the most delicious warm apple tart topped with apple sorbet and crumble. It was the perfect balance of tart, sweet, and cozy. Between the flavors and the friendly atmosphere, it felt like the perfect ending to a wonderful afternoon. Plus, John even mentioned that CAMP may be one of his favorites. Adding it to the future date night list!

Why At the Chef’s Table Stands Out

What makes At the Chef’s Table special is how personal it feels. Each restaurant welcomed us so warmly and treated John like they were old friends (which I am sure they truly are). The chefs and staff took time to share their stories and inspirations. Then, John tied it all together with the history that shaped Greenville into the food city it is today.

We had a great time conversing with the other couple we were dining with, enjoyed thoughtful wine pairings and a specialty cocktail, and felt like we were seeing Greenville through a whole new perspective. Nothing felt forced, it was truly inviting. It’s easy to understand why over 25,000 guests have taken this tour, and why many do it more than once. Every restaurant’s menu is curated just for your tour, often with off-menu dishes. Plus, John regularly refreshes the restaurants, so if you try it out another time in the future, you may get a totally new experience altogether.

It’s a great time, whether you’re a local looking for a fun date or unique gift experience, a newcomer eager to learn about Greenville’s culture and flavors, or a visitor wanting to taste the best of the city in one afternoon.

Kristina also said that the tours are “perfect for date nights or getting together with friends. It doesn’t matter if you are a local or just visiting Greenville – you will enjoy this and learn just a little more about this wonderful place.”

Know Before You Go

At The Chef’s Table has both a Tuesday night option and a Saturday afternoon option. Both are great for a date night, or would make a fantastic gift to a family member or friend who loves food and culture. For the At the Chef’s Table tour, you should know:

Duration: About 2.5 hours
Walking Distance: Just a few blocks — easy and accessible
Stops: Four top downtown restaurants
Includes: Food tastings, wine pairings, one specialty cocktail, and water
Can accommodate food allergies and special dietary needs if given a heads up.
Cost: Around $79 per person for the Saturday Afternoon tour
Book your Culinary Tour ticket here.

More Tour Options with Greenville History & Culinary Tours

John has a van! And he is ready to take you on a food and history adventure throughout Greenville. Aside from At the Chef’s Table, John also offers a couple of other tours you may want to check out that range from $49 – $79 per person. Culinary tours include:

If you’re looking to learn more about Greenville’s history, John also offers shorter tours that are primarily history-based, but he is really good at making things interesting. These include a Falls Park Walking Tour, Historic Neighborhoods driving tour, Photographic Journey of Old Greenville, just to name a few. These tours start around $25.

Give the Ultimate Experience Gift

Want to gift a tour as a gift, but not sure what will fit? You can get a gift card, so that whoever you’re looking to surprise with an amazing experience gift can choose which tour they would enjoy most! I highly recommend this experience as the ultimate gift for the foodie in your life; I have no doubt that they will love it.

Learn more about Greenville History Tours

864.567.3940
greenvillehistorytours@gmail.com
Greenville History Tours Website
Greenville History Tours Facebook

Have you ever been on the Culinary Tour in downtown Greenville?

10 Kid-Friendly Restaurant Options That Aren’t Fast Food in Greenville, SC

Have you been searching for restaurants that are a little fancier, but are kid-friendly? Greenville, SC has several that are both! If you’re looking for a nice restaurant to celebrate something special or just something a bit nicer than chicken nuggets, check out this list of the best restaurants for kids in Greenville, SC.

Kid friendly restaurants in Greenville, South Carolina that are not fast food.

Dining out with kids isn’t only for intrepid parents who’ve taken their kids to dinner since birth. Parents deserve some fun and creative dining experiences that don’t involve chicken tenders! To make it a more fun and memorable experience, in addition to providing you with a few dinner suggestions (not the usual suspects), we’ve also shared some of our tips below based on our dining experiences around town.

Tips for Eating Out with Kids

Skip the kid’s menu. We have our 6 and 7-year-olds either share a main course or we order appetizers (a couple of small things in case they don’t like one of them).

Request that all the food come out at the same time instead of the kid’s meals coming out first. This will ensure that the kids will be busy while parents are enjoying their own food.

Always try to reserve a table if you can or eat early. Also, attempt to stick to your child’s routine to avoid meltdowns.

Expect that the wait for your food will take time to be served and bring a bag of tricks. Our kids love to read and draw, so we always have them bring a book or entertain themselves with a box of crayons and paper while waiting for food. Check out this great list with a ton of suggestions of games and activities for waiting at a restaurant.

Let them do the ordering; this makes the evening more interactive.

This is your chance to teach your kids about table manners and how to behave when eating out in public. Be sure to brief them before you leave the house.

Reward their adventurous spirits with something yummy from the dessert section.

Restaurants to Dine at That Are Kid-Friendly: Greenville, SC

If you are raring to go, here are a few places to get you started. We’ve listed a range, from elegant (good for special occasions like Valentine’s Day) to casual (a nice alternative to fast food). Greenville has such a great selection of restaurants, that we hope we’ve given you some options when dining out with the whole family.

Larkin’s

32 East Broad Street, Greenville, SC 29601 | 864-467-9777
Price: Splurge

In the heart of town, this restaurant offers some of the best city views in downtown. There is no children’s menu, but their entrees are big enough to share. The restaurant is located in Camperdown Plaza, so your kids can run around the area or play in the waterfall fountain while you wait. Call ahead to reserve a table.

Restaurant 17

10 Road of Vines, Travelers Rest, SC 29690 | 864-516-1254
Price: Splurge

Best paired with a visit to Campbell’s Bridge or after a visit to a nearby state park, Restaurant 17 is a half-hour drive from downtown Greenville. It belongs to Hotel Domestique, a boutique hotel beautifully nestled at the foothills of the Blue Ridge mountains with sprawling views of the countryside. We love taking visitors here, to enjoy the fabulous views and their chef’s bold take on artisanal southern cuisine. If weather permits, you can request a table outside on their patio overlooking the pool.

While waiting for dinner to arrive, we usually take a stroll around their plaza which has an interesting water feature. Try to go before sunset so you can catch the amazing pink skyline. Though they don’t have a separate children’s menu, their kitchen has graciously whipped up a pasta dish for our kids. Call ahead to reserve a table.

Otto Izakaya

15 Market Point Drive, Greenville, SC 29607 | 864-568-8009
Price: Moderate

Asian food with flair. Otto Izikaya is a sleek-looking restaurant in Greenville. A bit hidden, the place surprises with high ceilings, great lighting, and a metropolitan atmosphere. Lots of small plates to choose from and a long list of house non-raw and traditional sushi rolls. The edamame with garlic and parmesan brings a new twist to this Japanese vegetable side dish.

Some fun things that our kids like on their menu are the pork buns, fried dumplings, and chicken satay which are non-spicy and children-friendly items. If you still have room for dessert, try the fried Oreos, which has received rave reviews. Call ahead to reserve a table.

Smoke on the Water

1 Augusta Street, #202, Greenville, SC 29601 | 864-232-9091
Price: Moderate

This tavern-style downtown eatery serves barbeque and southern favorites. We usually request a booth inside but there’s also a patio to enjoy if it’s a nice day. The place is usually loud and busy so one doesn’t have to be too worried about kids and their voices being too loud. For dessert, we walk a block down and have some frozen yogurt at Blueberry Frog. Call ahead to reserve a table.

Trappe Door

23 West Washington Street, Greenville, SC 29601 | 864-451-7490
Price: Moderate

It’s dark, cozy, and usually busy in this popular Belgian-inspired downtown restaurant. We love their Carbonade Flamande, a traditional Belgian stew, their Moules and Frites (mussels and fries), and the extensive European beer menu. With their fries, you’ll have a choice of three mayo-based dipping sauces of which I usually just order three of their truffle mayo.

The kid’s menu offers a choice of fries and either a vegetable or fruit bowl. Our kids get a kick out of their restrooms decorated with comic strips from the adventures of the junior detective Tin Tin. For dessert, we usually go to Rosa Luna next door to enjoy one of the best gelatos in town. Call ahead to reserve a table. No Reservations Required

Tupelo Honey Cafe

1 N Main Street Greenville, SC | 864-451-6200
Price: Moderate

If you love delicious southern cuisine, then Tupelo Honey Cafe is the place to go! Their menu is a hit with our kids, because who doesn’t love chicken and waffles? You can dine inside or outside on the open patio. It gets pretty loud, so you do not have to worry about your kids being too loud, it’s also close to the fountains and open space at One Greenville, so if your kids need a break from the table they can run around there and you can easily see them. We recommend reservations, especially on the weekends.

Nose Dive

116 S Main Street, Greenville, SC 29601 | 864-373-7300
Price: Moderate

The Nose Dive in Greenville is a local favorite. The atmosphere is a little louder, so you don’t have to worry if your kids fuss or have an indoor voice that’s really more appropriate for a stadium. They also have a fun kids’ menu! No reservations are required, but they are available.

Menkoi Ramen House

241 North Main Street, Greenville, SC 29601 | 864-373-9233
Price: Deal

If you want a quick dinner but not the usual fast food joint, head to the downtown location of this authentic Japanese noodle shop located at NOMA Square. Great for winter weather and ready in minutes, order your own or share a bowl of hot broth served with thin slices of pork, ramen noodles, bean sprouts, and egg. My daughter loves the gyoza (fried dumplings). If you don’t feel like soup, they also serve Japanese-style curry with rice.

Willy Taco

217 Laurens Road, Greenville, SC 29607
930 E Main Street, Spartanburg, SC 29302
Price: Deal

Willy Taco is one of the best kid-friendly Greenville, SC restaurants! While there is no kids’ menu, you can easily order a single taco for your child or share a meal. Bonus: They have cornhole games set up outside.

White Duck Taco Shop

1320 Hampton Avenue Ext, Greenville, SC | 864-609-4150
Price: Deal

This place has the BEST tacos, especially their Korean Bulgogi taco. You can sit inside or outside, the vibe is nice and cozy, and you can have dessert at Waffle Drop. Hampton Station also has a few other shops to explore, an open area for kids to run around in while you wait for food, and your kids will enjoy the quesadillas at White Duck too, so win-win.

Kids Eat Free at these Local Restaurants near Greenville, SC!

Find the perfect restaurant for any occasion in our Ultimate Guide to Greenville’s Restaurants.

Complete Restaurant Guide to Greenville, SC

Mom Review: The Runway Park at Greenville Downtown Airport

If you have a kid who loves airplanes, then Runway Park near Downtown Greenville, SC is the best park ever! Please tell me you’ve been. There is a wonderful park, with swings, climbing structures, a paved trail for bike riding, and lots of different slides. But the best part is that you can watch small-engine planes take off while you play!

There is also a mini golf course in the same parking lot. What a win!

Runway Park at the Greenville Downtown Airport in Greenville, South Carolina

Quick Summary: Runway Park

If your kiddo is obsessed with airplanes, Runway Park near Downtown Greenville is the perfect spot for a playdate. The best part? You can watch real planes take off and land while the kids play! 🛫

Here’s why you’ll love it:
✅ Airplane-themed playground with swings, slides & climbing structures
✅ A paved track for bikes & scooters (trust us—bring their wheels!)
✅ A real Boeing 737 body to walk through!
✅ Fenced-in for easy supervision
✅ Picnic areas & a family-friendly restaurant nearby

If your kid is super duper into planes, check out Spartanburg’s Downtown Memorial Airport Park. The park has a playground and even a free splash pad!

A Little About Runway Park

The charm of the place catches you from the moment you arrive. To enter the play area, you walk through the body of an airplane – which is actually the real body of an old Boeing 737. On the left, there is a set of play equipment for the smaller kids. On the right, there is another (pretend) plane to climb/sit on (it’s perfect for pictures). The playset for the older children is closest to the runway.

A track surrounds the area. Make sure to throw bikes and scooters in the trunk of your car. Had I known ahead of time about the track, we might have avoided a meltdown or two (or three). So I repeat, TAKE THEIR WHEELS! (You can shoot me a “thank you” email whenever you have time).

Airport Park playground in Greenville, South Carolina

Everything is fenced in. The whole place. It is super easy to keep up with your tribe. And aside from a small gate door that leads to the café, there’s only one way in and out.

While the bright and colorful bars, slides, and swings are nice, that’s not at all my favorite part. I love all the green grass. Thankfully, on this day, I had my blanket in the van. If stretching out on a blanket isn’t your cup ‘O tea, there are a couple of picnic tables – which, btw, the picnic hanger would be a nice place to host a birthday party. Nearby the picnic shelter is a small building with restrooms, making getting to those potty breaks quick and easy.

Clearly, I give the playground at Runway two thumbs up. I would give it three if I had an extra!

Riding bikes at Runway Park in Greenville, South Carolina

Incorporating The Park Into An Educational Opportunity

You can make great use of the fact that the park is located beside a bustling airstrip. Check out some of the ways we have found helpful in linking a fun day at Runway Park with an educational lesson about physics.

At the park, observe the planes taking off and discuss the forces at work. Why does the plane speed up to take off? Where is the air moving fast? Where is the air moving slowly? Where is the high pressure that pushes the plane up?

Use the park’s unique pretend runway to act out this idea of lift. Encourage students to use proper vocabulary (air speed, air pressure, lift, Bernoulli principle) as they pretend to take off.

When you get home, consider a writing assignment, vocabulary, journal entry, or labeled drawing for older students.

Oh, What Fun! A Scavenger Hunt!

Do your little ones love scavenger hunts or the game I-Spy? If so, they will love this unique photo scavenger park at Runway Park! Kids will have a blast using the photo scavenger hunt to find fun spots to play at Runway Park in Greenville.

Difficulty Level: Easy (This scavenger hunt is designed for small children 2-5.)

Link to Download this Scavenger Hunt as a Free Printable: Runway Park Scavenger Hunt

Plan Your Own Trip to The Runway Park

29 Airport Road Ext, Greenville, SC
Open daily from dawn until dusk.

Let me know what your favorite part of The Runway Park is!

You will find even more amazing parks and playgrounds in our KA Guide to Parks Near Greenville, SC!

Parks and playgrounds near Greenville, South Carolina

You can play mini-golf at Take-off Mini Golf, an aviation-themed course at the Greenville Downtown Airport!

Dine & Play: Places Where You Can Eat While Your Kids Play

Places where you kids can play while you eat near Greenville, South Carolina

Celebrate the Best that Our Town has to Offer at Fall For Greenville

Are you looking for the best outdoor festival in Greenville? Fall for Greenville is an annual tradition and a celebration of our city that you don’t want to miss!
Local mom Kristina gives us the details you need to plan a visit to this year’s annual Fall For Greenville!

Greenville has focused a significant amount of time and energy on making the small city a paradise for people who love to eat good food. And who doesn’t love good food?

Fall for Greenville is not only one of the region’s hottest food festivals but also one of the nation’s best fall festivals, according to Country Living. Cheers to that!

2024 Fall Festivals near Greenville, South Carolina

Want to check out more fall festivals? Here is our list of Fall Festivals near Greenville.

Looking for parking? Here’s our Guide to Parking in Downtown Greenville.

Food and Beverages at Fall for Greenville

Fall for Greenville is so remarkable because it’s a fantastic opportunity to try out several of the area’s best restaurants without completely emptying your wallet. Have you heard that the shrimp and grits are to die for at Soby’s? Then give it a try with a small plate. Or, try a small plate of brisket nachos from Universal Joint.

Over 40 restaurants are participating this year, including places like Otto, Larkins, and Soby’s.

Adult beverages are also widely represented in the Beer Garden and the Wine Garden, which traditionally features 24 different breweries and dozens of craft beers. So enjoy some good tunes along with the brews. Beers will be available along with many other options to quench the thirst of festival-goers.

Cooking Demos & Competitions at Fall for Greenville

Fall for Greenville traditionally hosts several area chefs for cooking demonstrations to dish out their secrets in the kitchen.

If you have a reality TV show food cooking addiction, be sure to check out the competitions at Fall for Greenville. Professional chefs and food critics will pick the best entrée from participating restaurants in the U.S. Foods Silver Spoon competition. In the U.S. Foods Sugary Spoon competition, judges will choose the best dessert menu item.

The Fall for Greenville Kids Area

The Fall for Greenville Kids’ Area is open the same hours as the festival and features rides like a fun slide, swings, a wacky slide, and toddler town. Tickets are required for all the rides for the kids and range from 1 – 5 tickets. Tickets cost $1 per ticket and are located at East Broad Street.

Next to the kids’ area will be the Baby Care Station, a private changing room, and rocking chairs.

Tickets Are For Food, Beverage, and Rides at Fall for Greenville

New for 2025 is that the festival is ticketless. You need to buy cards and put tickets on there for everything. Purchase them online ahead of time to save time and get an extra $5 in tickets for every $50 you spend.

Here’s a list of how many tickets you usually need for certain things (subject to change):

Beer: 5 Tickets
Carolina Ale House Beer Garden: 6 Tickets
Wine: 5 Tickets
CenterWell Senior Primary Care Wine Garden: 7 Tickets
Pepsi Products: 2 Tickets
Kids’ Rides: 1 – 5 Tickets
Food Menu Items: 1 – 10 Tickets

Fall for Greenville kicks off with a concert on the CPI Security West End Stage at the intersection of Main Street and Augusta Street.

The rest of the festival runs from Friday through Sunday. Alcohol sales cut off a half-hour before the festival ends each day.

Getting Around at Fall for Greenville

Parking options are available throughout Greenville, but you can park at County Square (301 University Ridge) and take the free downtown trolley. It runs an hour before the festival starts and ends an hour after closing.

Strollers and wheelchairs are permitted at the event, but none are for rent. From experience, if you can carry your younger children in baby carriers, it is easier than trying to navigate through the crowds with a stroller. Pets aren’t allowed (but service animals are), and neither are lawn chairs, blankets, coolers, bikes, or skateboards. Fall for Greenville will go on rain or shine!

2025 Fall For Greenville Festival Info

Where: Downtown Greenville
When:
- October 10th, 2025 12 pm – 10 pm
- October 11th, 2025 11 am – 9 pm
- October 12th, 2025 12 pm – 7 pm
Admission: Free
Fall For Greenville FAQ

Are you excited about Fall for Greenville?

Don’t Miss Boo In The Zoo This October At The Zoo In Greenville, South Carolina

Looking for a family-friendly Halloween event that even the littlest spooks in your family will enjoy? Mark your calendar because Boo in the Zoo, Greenville, SC’s annual family-friendly trick-or-treating event, is happening this October! Boo in the Zoo kicks off on October 15, 2025. We’ll give you all the details, and some hints on what to expect, so your family will be ready to enjoy this awesome event!

Watch! Our Visit to Boo at the Zoo

This visit was in 2024 but it’ll give you a good idea waht you can expect when you head to Boo at the Zoo.

Halloween Guide, trick or treat in Greenville, SC

Check out our complete Halloween Near Greenville, SC list of great places to trick-or-treat, Halloween events, and more!

Fun At Greenville’s Boo In The Zoo

My family tries to trick-or-treat at Boo in the Zoo every year. We enjoy the safe trick-or-treating atmosphere, the chance to see the animals, and cute Halloween decorations and photo ops. This annual Halloween event in Greenville has been going on so long that many of us parents remember trick-or-treating at the zoo as kids.

The zoo has timed entrances and limited attendance each night to assist with crowd control. Guests can pre-purchase tickets online once they become available closer to October. With limited capacity, Boo in the Zoo usually sells out for each night. The zoo does not permit walk-up ticket sales on sold-out nights. Guests should bring their own bags for trick-or-treating.

What is Boo in the Zoo, At The Greenville Zoo?

Boo in the Zoo is a non-scary annual Halloween event for children 12 and under the last two weekends in October.

Children (and some adults) wear costumes and carry their trick-or-treat bag through the zoo and receive treats from local businesses. The animals may stay indoors the closer it gets to nighttime.
(If you want to see the animals, be sure to go early in the evening when the animals will be more likely to be awake and moving around.)

Even though all non-member visitors to the zoo must pay, only children are allowed to trick-or-treat.

The Greenville Zoo is decorated with painted wooden Halloween signs, pumpkins, and even lights in the trees.

Alice’s Fun House is one of the highlights of the Boo in the Zoo adventure, where children can walk through a building full of fun, spooky decorations before receiving some additional candy. Outside of Alice’s Fun House is also a great place to take family pictures with lots of fun photo props such as bales of hay and pumpkins.

Boo in the Zoo also includes an area called Dragon Alley, where you can walk under a long archway of lights and collect candy at the popup store fronts. There are over a dozen or so trick-or-treat stations throughout the zoo, along with chances to meet and greet with Princesses, see several humongous dragons, and even a large skeleton you’ll kids will be in awe over.

Normally, it takes our family around an hour to go trick-or-treating through Boo in the Zoo. And, each year my kids have brought home a nice bag of treats with a variety of candy and toy items.

And, don’t forget to plan a little extra time to play on the playground at Cleveland Park (because you will probably end up doing it anyway).

Alice in Wonderland Funhouse at Boo in the Zoo

2025 Boo In The Zoo Greenville Details

When Is Boo In The Zoo?

October 15 – October 19, 2025
3 pm – 8 pm
October 22 – October 30, 2025
3 pm – 8 pm

How Do We Get Tickets?
We highly recommend pre-purchasing tickets online ahead of time. Entrances are timed, and attendance is limited each night. Walk-up tickets are sometimes available, but they cost slightly more.
*Boo in the Zoo is a rain or shine event, tickets are a final sale

How Much Is Boo In The Zoo?

Boo in the Zoo Ticket prices for 2025 are as follows:
Greenville Zoo Members:
$10 for members and $3 if you are Trick or Treating | $10 for non-Trick or Treaters
General Public:
$12 plus $3 if Trick or Treating | $12 for non-Trick or Treaters
Boo Babies:
Ages 0-2, not trick or treating are free / Boo Babies that would like treats would need to purchase a Trick-or-Treating admission ticket.

Where to Grab a Healthy and Fast Meal in Greenville, SC

If you don’t have time for a meal in a restaurant but still want to feed your family a healthy dinner, then what these healthy restaurants in Greenville, SC have to offer will complete your dinner menu! Believe it or not, you can get a fast, yet healthy, meal right here in Greenville.

Local Mom Lindy put together this list of local spots for a quick and healthy meal that even your kids will like.

Healthy places to eat in Greenville, South Carolina — Taco from Papi’s Tacos

I recently wrote up a list of alternatives to the fast-food drive-thru’s and it was so popular that Kidding Around Greenville readers wanted a list of even more quick-service restaurants with healthier food options. So below are some of your favorite spots for a quick bite with kids (a couple of these even have a pickup window!). Note: We did not relist the places that made our first list of healthy drive-thru spots. Be sure to check that out too as almost all of the places on that list offer dine-in too.

Healthy Restaurants: Greenville, SC Quick Places for Dining In With Kids (that don’t have drive-thrus)

Clean Eatz

3608 Pelham Road Suite C, Greenville, SC
864.605.7999

Want something quick, super duper healthy, but also full of flavor? Then Clean Eatz is a place you HAVE to try. They have burgers, wraps, build-your-own bowls, and more. I highly recommend building your own bowl, because there are so many options to make your meal. Their Chocolate Covered Strawberry protein smoothie is the perfect amount of sweet. They even have a healthy kid’s menu, with things like pizza rolls and turkey burgers.

Moe’s Southwest Grill

Multiple Locations

Ironically based out of Atlanta (aka the South EAST), Moe’s is nonetheless pretty good as far as this born and raised Southwesterner is concerned. Much like Chipotle, there are many build-your-own options, but you get unlimited chips and a free salsa bar. So not as good for dieting, but delicious! You can also get birthday freebies and welcome free queso when you sign up for their email club.

O-CHA Tea Bar

300 River Street Ste 122, Greenville, SC
864.283.6702

Though their focus is tea, their dining menu is delicious with many vegetarian options in addition to some amazing pastries. O-CHA Tea Bar is very kid-friendly – when I nursed my baby there a while back, the owner personally came over to thank me for nursing my child and let me know nursing mothers are always welcomed there.

Papi’s Tacos

300 River Street, Greenville, SC
864.373.7274

Downtown along the Reedy River, this “stationary food truck” is owned by fine dining experts at the above Lazy Goat. Kids will love the gelato and enjoy watching the geese in the Reedy River. Papi’s Tacos also has a location in Easley.

Find out why Papi’s Tacos is the place to go in Greenville when you are craving authentic Mexican tacos that are fresh in our KA review!

Sun Belly Cafe

1409 West Blue Ridge Drive, Greenville, SC
404.309.7791

Have dietary restrictions and want something vegan, gluten-free, or dairy-free? Sun Belly Cafe has a menu loaded with special diet items, but they do not skimp on the flavor! They have a variety of salads and unique, protein-loaded dishes to try out. If you like spicy, they have a savory Ethiopia Stew Plate that my husband always gets when you go here and literally salivates over. This place is probably not the best for families with picky eaters because they have a more adventurous menu, but there are options on the menu for everyone.

Swamp Rabbit Cafe

205 Cedar Lane Road, Greenville, SC
864.255.3385

It’s a popular local spot, but because of its delicious selections of soups, sandwiches, and salads, all made with fresh, local ingredients, Swamp Rabbit Cafe deserves a spot in the realm of healthy eating out. We just won’t mention those fantastic scones, cookies, or cinnamon rolls.

Learn why the stecca is the best and you’ll never find cleaner, locally sourced products than at the Swamp Rabbit Cafe in our KA review!

Taziki’s Mediterranean Cafe

3604 Pelham Road Ste A, Greenville, SC
864.501.0450

Delicious gyros, salads, platters with chicken or lamb, and great side choices are available for dine-in or call ahead for pick-up. Taziki’s has some unique children’s meals, like chicken pitas. They also have great family to-go meal deals available.

Tropical Grille

Multiple Locations

With several locations in the area, Tropical Grille is perfect for any meal and super convenient. They have enough variety with their Cuban-themed menu to suit everyone in the family, no matter what they like, and the prices are very good for what you get.

Their sauces are also fabulous and they have lots of healthy options. Call ahead for pickup or drop-in for a quick, but delicious, dinner. They have a family option for dinner as well, which can last for a couple of meals.

A couple of the Tropical Grilled locations have drive-thrus, but the majority are dine-in or carry-out.

Viva Chicken

3624 B Pelham Road, Greenville
1139 Woodruff Road, Greenville

With meals built around delicious, farm-raised chicken, Viva Chicken is an excellent choice for a healthy quick meal. They even have sandwiches, wraps, salads, vegetarian options, and vegan options! They are known for their Peruvian-style rotisserie chicken, so you know it’s juicy.

You can grab a quarter chicken with two sides for less than $15, or grab a whole chicken with sides for the entire family. You’ll find sides like plantains, yuca, or cilantro rice in addition to several signature sides you can choose from. Don’t forget the sauces! They are house-made daily and full of flavor.

Yum Bai SC

Food Truck: Schedule frequently changes

This is an excellent food truck option if you are looking for healthy restaurants. Greenville, SC’s own Yum Bai SC offers fusion Asian cuisine, and their consistently parked at some pretty awesome locations and breweries. You can find out where they are going to be located through their regular Facebook posts of their upcoming schedule.

Read our KA review of Yum Bai SC to learn more about their delicious Asian cuisine and get your hands on some of those Lemongrass steaks!

As always let us know if you have any other recommendations. We love hearing from our readers!

Learn about all the delicious food that Greenville, SC has to offer in our Ultimate Guide to Restaurants in Greenville!

Kids Can Do More than Just Play at Railroad Mini Park

Have you visited Railroad Mini Park? This modest park is right off Stone Avenue near Downtown Greenville, so it is perfect for a quick play date after school or on the weekend. KAG contributor and local mom, Deborah, visited the park and tells us why this park offers more than just play.

What to Expect at Railroad Mini Park

No railroad. No train. This park is named after the street it is near, Railroad Street. Just a quarter mile off Stone Avenue, you’ll find a large grassy area, a full basketball court, and a playground. Park along Becker Street or Scott Street and walk across the grass.

View of the playground at Railroad Mini Park in Greenville, South Carolina

This playground is perfect for children of all ages and will improve balance and strength. The bouncy balance beam is a fun twist to the classic balance beam. No one will have to wait to slide with two slides on opposite sides of the playground. In the center, there are a few games. My boys’ favorite game was the spinner. Spin the arrow and then find that symbol somewhere on the playground.

A large cover keeps much of the playground shaded when the sun is at its highest. Bring a picnic to enjoy at the picnic table under the shade beside the playground. If you don’t want to pack a picnic, drive less than a mile and enjoy Willy Taco, where kids and adults can enjoy deliciously fresh Mexican food and even play a game of cornhole.

Railroad Mini Park sits just half a mile from NorthPointe, home to Harris Teeter, stores and restaurants, apartments, and a large parking garage.

Bring a basketball and other lawn games and your whole family to enjoy the park and maybe do a little shopping too. Yet another day made great in Greenville!

Obstacles on the playground at Railroad Mini Park in Greenville, SC

Railroad Mini Park
32 Becker Street, Greenville

Have you taken your kids to the new Railroad Mini Park yet?

Want to check out even more great parks in the Greenville area? Visit our guide to parks near Greenville, SC for info and reviews on tons of local parks!

Farm Fresh Fast: A New Kind of Fast Food [PERMANENTLY CLOSED]

Ever get so busy you don’t have time to cook? Farm Fresh Fast wants to be there when those days hit, as a quick but healthy (and tasty) meal option. Kidding Around Greenville contributor and local mom, Kristina Hernandez visited Farm Fresh Fast and now she’s telling you just what to expect. File it away in the back of your brain, because you know that “too busy to cook” day is coming soon!

Farm Fresh Fast closed their Church Street location but they still have their amazing food available at their Simpsonville location.

“Here are the duck eggs,” said Daniel Leyman of Lilac Acres Farmstead. He walked into Farm Fresh Fast when I did and was presenting the large eggs to Jonathan Willis, who owns the popular restaurant. Jonathan had found Daniel right before he opened Farm Fresh Fast and was buying the eggs to use for duck omelets.

When Jonathan talked about working with small farmers to source local ingredients for the new fast-food farm-to-table restaurant, he wasn’t joking. Daniel’s farm consists of two acres at his home in a subdivision in Taylors that houses some ducks, chickens, goats, and pigs on his property. So far, Jonathan has found 15 local farmers and works closely with them to ensure he gets the best possible ingredients. We can’t all go looking for great ingredients at local farms but we can eat them at Farm Fresh Fast.

The concept behind Farm Fresh Fast

Jonathan Willis created a meal planning and delivery service in January 2016 in Greenville that catered to busy families and professionals. As a certified nutritionist and trainer, he had the knowledge to create healthy and tasty food and saw a market in Greenville that would embrace it. And they did.

He accomplished his two-year plan in only eight months and was ready to expand the business to the next level: a fast food restaurant with the convenience of a pickup window and the taste and food straight from the farm.

Healthy and fast food are pretty much never mentioned in the same sentence and Jonathan set out to change that. He also knew that charging high prices for good food wasn’t the way to go and attract a base of customers that would regularly be able to enjoy the restaurant.

With the immense help of his then-fiancée Kaylee Gonzalez, who loves creating healthy alternatives and is a fitness buff herself, he set out to do what no one in the Greenville area has done: start a healthy, true farm-to-table fast food restaurant.

Farm Fresh Fast restaurant in Greenville

The Food at Farm Fresh Fast

Farm Fresh Fast sources 80% of its ingredients from local farmers and their goal is 90%. If tomatoes aren’t in season, they aren’t serving them. When lettuce is in season, the restaurant will have a killer salad in the works.

Jonathan started planning his menu back in the fall and worked with local farmers to start planting then so that he can have what he wants now – spaghetti squash, zucchini, and cauliflower.

A West Virginia native, Jonathan’s own background shines through in the Almost Heaven Fat-Free Cheddar-Stuffed Burger, which uses lean ground beef and pork ($14.99). The bun is made by Upcountry Provisions in Travelers Rest (which my oldest child devoured before I could get to it) and gluten-free options are available. The Seasonal Stir-Fry is another highlight, using only local vegetables to create a satisfying meal ($15.49).

The meals are portion-sized yet filling. After having the Almost Heaven burger, I didn’t feel awful or too full. It was a perfectly sized dish with really good ingredients. Oh, and it was fast too – our meal was out in about 10 minutes.

Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are all available and thoughtfully cooked and prepared.

“What you think about fast food – I want to flip it on its head,” said Jonathan. “Often you order something at a fast food place and don’t expect it to be right. You expect it to be mediocre. We want to be different, efficient, and we want people coming back for more. We are setting high standards for farm-to-table food.”

Vegan Options Are Super Popular

Since it’s opening, Farm Fresh Fast has created a “No Kill Menu”, featuring and Greek Pita Wrap and Buffalo “Chicken” Wrap.

Willis has taken steps to work specifically with the Greenville vegan community, attracting the attention of local news even for his creative menu options that even meat lovers enjoy and that the vegan community are happy to support.

Farm Fresh Fast is food for the whole family

I needed to ask Jonathan the question “will kids like the food?” He answers with a resounding ‘yes’!

Jonathan and Kaylee reiterate that the restaurant is kid-friendly and the pick-up window is especially geared towards busy parents just trying to get their kids something healthy to eat and to do it quickly.

My kids really loved the chicken and my youngest pointed to the cauliflower in the open kitchen, wanting to try it (she ate it all and took some to-go). The restaurant felt homey and welcoming.

“I want to show people what food is supposed to taste like,” she said.

The menu has a rotating list of 20 grab-and-go items available for sale at the counter and at the pick-up window, including Hickory BBQ Pizza, General Tso’s Chicken over Rice, Chicken and Whole Wheat Waffles, Southwest Burrito Bowl, Turkey Chili, and the Spicy Chicken Wrap.

The Farm Fresh Fast vibe

The vibe at Farm Fresh Fast is just really cool – the décor is well-thought out, featuring tons of reclaimed wood (that Jonathan went and picked up himself from old barns in the area), hand-laid concrete counters, and lots of repurposed farm items.

There is an abundance of natural light and guests can get an up-close look at the way everything is prepared because the kitchen is entirely open to the dining room through the bar area.

The restaurant is aiming high.

“We want to be a company of the community,” explains Jonathan.

“It’s all about the fiscal eco-system – by eating here and eating local food where we purchase from area farmers, it’s a cycle that benefits the local economy. No one is doing this on a fast food scale.”

And consumers are ready for this. Nationally, mom and pop restaurants are growing faster than chain restaurants. Bloomberg reports that some big-time restaurant chains are shutting down and Americans want something that feels more like home: “Large chains seem rooted in the American experience. But times, and tastes, are changing. Customers these days believe locals have better food, service, deals and even decor, the Pentallect report said.”

Greenville is a good example of this trend as innovative, creative spots are popping up all around town, seeking to make eating out a community experience, which is exactly what Farm Fresh Fast is aiming for.

Plan your visit to Farm Fresh Fast

Farm Fresh Fast is open from Mondays-Thursdays 11 am – 8 pm and Saturdays 11 am – 3 pm.

Farm Fresh Fast 109 SE Main St, Simpsonville, SC 864-764-9241

Have you ever visited a farm to table fast food restaurant?

Discover more healthy options!

KAG’s Healthier Drive-Thru Guide

Healthy drive thru meals near Greenville, South Carolina

Looking for other restaurants in Greenville, SC? You’ll find the best Greenville, SC restaurants in our guide.

Museum & Gallery at Bob Jones University: Art History for All Ages

M&G, the Bob Jones Museum and Gallery, is a place to examine cultural and art history for all ages. Though M&G has been closed to the public since 2017, you can still view historic pieces of art from the gallery at various campus locations, off-campus locations, and events throughout the Upstate.

Plus, M&G still offers homeschool programs, specialized tours, and summer camps! As M&G continues to fund for a new location, we can support them through the various art history programs available.

Where to See Collections on View Throughout the BJU Campus

Though the brick-and-mortar Museum and Gallery location is no longer open at BJU, there are several places where you can view Medieval, Renaissance, Baroque, American, and religious art throughout the campus at Bob Jones University. The M&G Collection on View has pieces displayed in three campus locations, including:

Gustafson Fine Arts Center Atrium: Open Monday – Friday, 10 am – 5 pm
Tours are available, Open to the public
European Old Masters painting collection of Luther’s Journey: Experience the History

War Memorial Chapel: Open by appointment only
Tours available
The Benjamin West Collection: The Father of American Painting
Mack Library: Monday – Saturday, 10 am – 5 pm
Open to the public
Medieval and Renaissance artifacts and art pieces

Kids creating art at the Bob Jones Museum and Gallery

Activities for All Ages

Does history and art make your eyes glaze over? It doesn’t have to be like that! History is rich with incredible and interesting stories and art reflects that intrigue. M&G offers Scavenger Hunts that encompass everything from the signs and symbols in the art that mean something more than meets the eye to be able to identify techniques used by the greatest artists in all of history.

M&G also offers two print-off seasonal scavenger hunts for Easter and Christmas. These hunts are for all ages and use short audio clips and videos to help the hunter find out more information about the pieces they are hunting for.

Art Discovery Tours for Kids

There are also specialized Cultural Discovery Tours for kids so they can learn more about art history. These tours are from K – 12th grade, and groups of 10 or more are needed. Tours are free but must be requested in advance.

Currently, M&G offers on-campus and off-campus tours for two different exhibits, Who Needs Shakespeare (6th – 12th grade) and Benjamin West: The Father of American Painting (grades 3rd -12th grade). Homeschool groups and teachers can submit a Specialized Focus Tours form to find out more information about the exhibits.

M&G Homeschool Days

M&G at Bob Jones University offers a special program for homeschoolers for their Homeschool Days, one that caters to students ages 5 – 14 years old. Lessons are 75 minutes long and are available once per month at the Mack Building on campus.

M&G Homeschool Days 2025–2026

Theme: Victorian England: Through the Looking Glass
Ages: 5–14
Lesson Length: 75 minutes (includes art activity)

Location & Cost

Mack Building, Bob Jones University
Children: $10 per lesson
Adults: $3 per lesson
Fees are non-refundable
Parents may stay or drop off
Check ahead for availability as they fill up quickly

Schedule for 2025/ 2026

Elementary (K5–5th grade):
Thursday: 9:30 AM & 2:00 PM
Friday: 9:30 AM, 12:00 PM & 2:00 PM

Middle School (6th–8th grade):
Friday: 9:30 AM, 12:00 PM & 2:00 PM

Fall 2025 Topics

Sept 11–12, 2025 – Portrait Painting
Oct 9–10, 2025 – Children’s Book Illustrators
Nov 13–14, 2025 – Animal Painters

Spring 2026 Topics (registration opens December)

Feb 12–13, 2025 – Caricatures & Limericks
Mar 12–13, 2025 – Landscape & Still Life
Apr 9–10, 2025– Women Artists

Digital Homeschool Days

If you prefer an at-home program, M&G also offers Digital Homeschool Days. These digital classes are for ages 5 – 14 years old and explore The Age of Antiquity. You must pre-register for the digital lessons and will have access to lessons on Sumer, Assyria, Babylon, Egypt, Hebrew, Greece, and Rome.

Museum on the Move

If you are looking for a unique way to bring the museum to your classroom or homeschool co-op, then M&G has you covered! They offer art-based STEAM units, whoo hoo! If you choose the in-person option, an educator will come to your classroom or group for a 30 – 60 minute lesson. Lessons meet core SC standards, so you don’t have to stress about that.

You can also choose grades 1st through 6th, with several lesson options available. You can find more information about the Museum on the Move program and how to register for in person and digital lessons on the M&G Museum on the Move page.

Kids Create! Summer Camp at M&G

Every summer, M&G at Bob Jones University offers a Kids Create! Summer camp that will have your child exploring the world through art. Summer camps are available for children aged K5 – age 12. Your child will explore the fine arts, create art projects, play interactive games, learn age-appropriate material, and make new friends! Camps are typically a week long in June and are half-day.

Museum & Gallery at Bob Jones University
864-770-1331
http://www.bjumg.org
https://www.facebook.com/bjumg

Have you ever taken your kids to M & G at Bob Jones University?

The Ultimate Homeschool Guide to the Upstate, South Carolina.

Homeschooling?

Check out our Ultimate Homeschool Guide to the Upstate!

Summer Camps are the Best!

We have a Guide to over 120 Summer Camps Near Greenville, SC. There is something for every interest.

Summer camps in Greenville, SC and Upstate, SC

Restaurant Week Is A Great Opportunity To Try A New Spot In Greenville, SC

Are you ready for the first Restaurant Week in Greenville, SC of 2025? There will never be a better time to support your Greenville restaurants than right now! The whole state of South Carolina will hold its annual Restaurant Week in January, and Greenville also holds a mini-Restaurant Week in August. The South Carolina Restaurant Week provides diners with the perfect opportunity to support locals and try something new.

The summer 2025 restaurant week lineup includes over two dozen restaurants in Greenville for you to try between August 14 – 24, 2025.

That’s a lot to choose from, so we will pick a few Upstate favorites and explain how to best take advantage of this special week for lovers of local restaurants.

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