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Disc Golf is a Perfect Fall Family Activity

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Are you curious about the disc golf signs you see posted at local parks? If so, we are here today to tell you all about disc golf in Spartanburg and disc golf in Greenville. If you are looking for a fun outdoor family activity, we’ve got all you need to know about playing disc golf in the Upstate.

disc golf at Spartanburg parks
Tyger River Park

Looking for even more fun things to do outside? Check out our Ultimate Guide to Outdoor Activities.

What is Disc Golf?

Disc golf (also known as frisbee golf) is an outdoor sport involving plastic discs, metal baskets, and an outdoor course. Players try to throw their discs into the metal baskets in the least amount of throws possible. For instance, whoever ends up with the lowest number of throws is the winner. Basically, disc golf follows the rules of golf.

Why Disc Golf is a Great Family Activity

Disc golf is a great family activity because it is a sport that families can play and enjoy together! It is also an easy way to encourage your family to be healthy as the game requires walking and other physical efforts. Plus, it can only be played outdoors – making it a unique way to get some Vitamin D.

My family of four includes two adults, a 7-year-old and a 4-year-old. We like to play disc golf because it is something we can play together, and it gets us out of the house. My 4-year-old is not quite old enough to play the game, but she still benefits from exploring nature while we move from one hole to the next on the disc golf course. While we play, she looks for leaves, sticks, and bugs.

Meanwhile, my 7-year-old is learning how to play the game and not feel defeated when it takes him more throws to land his disc in the basket than his parents. Since it is a game where you must wait your turn, it opens up many teachable moments and leaves room for plenty of conversations. We talk and joke as we walk from hole to hole and as we wait for our turns.

Disc Golf

Where You Can Play Disc Golf in Greenville and Spartanburg?

Greenville and Spartanburg have many places to play disc golf. Even better – you can play disc golf for free at most of these parks! As long as you have some discs on hand and see a course, you can play.

Where to play disc golf in Greenville:

Where to play disc golf in Spartanburg:

You can find out specifics at Disc Golf Course Review by searching for the course location.

My family enjoys playing disc golf at Tyger River Park the best. It is a very family-friendly course with the first nine holes being shaded, and we only play the first nine holes rather than all 18 holes. This means it does not take as much time, which is important when you are playing with children. Plus, it is also at a park that is familiar to us.

Holmes Park

Where You Can Purchase Disc Golf Supplies

One of the best reasons to play disc golf as a family is because it is budget-friendly. As long as you have the basic disc golf supplies (i.e., discs), you don’t have to spend any more money! However, disc golf should be played with disc golf discs – not standard frisbees. Disc golf discs are designed for the sport and to fit into the baskets.

Just like the game of golf has many different types of putters, disc golf has many different types of discs. But, beginners only need a starter set that includes a driver, mid-range, and a putter. For the first few times, you really only need a driver disc.

Thankfully, you can buy these at local sports stores such as Academy and Dick’s. We’ve had a lot of luck finding used discs in excellent condition at Play It Again Sports in Spartanburg.

Things to Remember

If you are new to disc golf, here are some things you need to know:

  • Have a bag that can hold water, bug spray, and discs.
  • Don’t forget to wear sunscreen.
  • Always stand behind the person throwing the disc.
  • Disc golf follows basic golf etiquette (such as waiting your turn and allowing faster teams to play through).

Has your family played disc golf? What is your favorite disc golf course in Spartanburg? Let us know in the comments!

Things to Do Outside Near Greenville, SC

Looking for more outdoor fun? Here’s a list of 30+ things to do outside near Greenville, SC.

30+ Free (or Cheap) Things to Do This Summer Near Spartanburg

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Looking for free summer things to do in Spartanburg? Or cheap summer activities? Thank goodness we live in Sparkle City! There are tons of free or super cheap things to do during the summer when kids are out of school. Bookmark this list of 30+ free things to do this summer in Spartanburg to have the best summer ever.

Free and cheap things to do in summer near Spartanburg, South Carolina

We love summer break! Between the sun staying out later and no homework, it might be our favorite time of the year. But, let’s talk about the hardest part of summer – keeping your kids occupied and entertained all summer long! Eventually, they will get tired of sidewalk chalk, bubbles, and even tv. Fortunately, there are tons of things to do in and around Spartanburg this summer that are perfect for families. Best of all? We have come up with over 30 things to do in the Upstate that are free (or pretty cheap).

P.S. Our definition of “cheap” is approximately $5 or less per person. For fun activities that cost more but are still fun see our calendar and don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter to get our email each week.

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Is Spartanburg the Hot Dog Capital of the South? I Think So!

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If you are looking for good hot dogs in Spartanburg, SC, we have you covered! With several popular spots, we are listing our readers’ favorites. Chime in and let us know if we missed your favorite hot dog spot in Spartanburg.

As a hot dog aficionado, the high number of places to get a fancy frank makes me happy. Once upon a time, I visited Old Salty Dog in Florida, a place featured on Man Vs. Food, just to try the famous hot dog. It’s “salty dog” is a hot dog dipped in a beer batter that is deep-fried and served in a bun, and it is topped with onions, mushrooms, sauerkraut, bacon, and a whole lot of cheese. Get in my belly.

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Take a Road Trip to Medieval Times: Atlanta, Georgia

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Have you taken your family to Medieval Times? Atlanta has one, and it is perfect for special occasions or a great day trip adventure, especially when you’re attempting to redeem the day. Medieval Times is located only 30 minutes from downtown Atlanta, and the show takes around 2-3 hours.

Perfect for a day trip where you can combine with other activities. Check out KA contributor Jennifer’s day trip to Medieval Times for the dinner tournament, and get started planning your next road trip to Atlanta, GA.

medieval times atlanta georgia

We take our children on family vacations because adventures and memories last longer than toys they outgrow. However, we have yet to take a family vacation where something unfortunate does not happen.

The trip started off well, but we had a tire blow on the interstate shortly outside of Atlanta. Thankfully, we were all safe. But, it did put some hiccups in our well-laid plans. After hours spent in a tire store and eating in chain restaurants that were not part of the agenda, we were tired, ill, and frustrated.

We decided we must redeem the day, so we called the nice folks at Medieval Times and asked to exchange our early dinner tickets for the later dinner show. With little ones along for the adventure, a show beginning at 7:30 p.m. would be pushing it for their bellies and their tired bodies. We prayed the kids would be awake enough to still enjoy it.

Our evening at Medieval Times: Atlanta, GA

Turns out, we had absolutely nothing to worry about! Our kids were alert and awake as soon as we drove up and saw the castle. The Medieval Times in Atlanta is in Sugarloaf Mills Mall in Lawrenceville, Georgia. This is located at a large outlet mall with stores, restaurants, and other activities. Medieval Times has a castle built out of the mall, which must be entered through a mall entrance. You’ll be whisked away to the 11th century once you leave the mall and enter the castle.

While we purchased tickets for the 7:30 p.m. show, the doors to the venue were opened slightly earlier. We joined the line to enter at 6:00 p.m. because the first ones to enter got the best seats in the house. When the time to enter comes, a trumpeter appears, along with the King and Princess to welcome the assembled crowd. My children could barely contain their excitement.

Things to Do Before Dinner in the Castle

Upon entering the castle, we were each given a green paper crown to cheer on the Green Knight. Pictures were taken, and then we were able to visit the castle areas.

Expect your little ones to want to visit the gift shop. There are souvenirs galore and drinks a plenty inside the castle. There is also a dungeon for brave souls to visit. Since there was a parental warning, we decided it would probably not be a wise decision to walk our little ones through the dungeon, but I did see many families come in and out of the dungeon doors.

After having such a rough day, we gave in to requests for knights’ helmets and princess hats immediately. The show is pricey itself, so be prepared for your children to want to add light-up wands, hats, swords, flags, and whatnot to the already large bill.

During the waiting time, you can shop, have a drink or snack, and watch various people be knighted by the king. This is an upgrade option for those who want the whole knighting experience. Even if you do not pay to be knighted, it is still fun to watch.

What to Expect During the Dinner Tournament at Medieval Times Atlanta

Minutes before the show, we were ushered into the jousting arena. You sit in stadium-like rows with tables in front in a round. Every seat has a great view of the dinner tournament.

The bill of fare includes your beverage, a piece of garlic toast, soup, rotisserie chicken, a roasted potato, corn, and dessert. The meal was delicious! However, there is one small thing you should know. Since you have gone back into “medieval times,” there are no utensils! You must eat everything with your hands. My son and daughter thought this was awesome! Don’t worry, parents – they provide moist wipes to clean up after your meal.

While eating, they put on an incredible show with knights, horses, and falcons. But, the big event is the dinner tournament where you watch the knights perform. The knights compete in a series of jousting events and fighting battles. They drop screens down in between the audience and knights as some of the weaponry is destroyed in the battle. You see sparks fly as swords clash and jousts splinter. You are encouraged to cheer on your knight and boo your opponent as loudly as possible.

With all the chaos of the morning, hearing my children scream, “We believe in you! You can do it!” and “Boo!” at the top of their lungs made all of the tire disaster worth it. I do not know the last time my kids have shown that much excitement. My son yelled for our knight to do a “Sneak attack!” and when a bad guy appeared, my daughter loudly shouted, “Get him outta here!”

Our Green Knight was not victorious, but it did not matter in the end. The whole arena came together to cheer on the good knight who was battling an evil one.

After the final battle, audience members can meet the knights and take pictures. This was a big hit for my star-struck children.

With hoarse voices and full bellies, we left the castle. Our children fell asleep with smiles on their faces before we ever made it out of the mall parking lot.

Things to Know Before Visiting Medieval Times Atlanta

For General Admission prices: $65.95 for adults | $38.95 for children 12 and under | Under 3 – Free if they sit with parents and do not order a meal

Times: Varies Depending on the day of the week | Saturdays generally have multiple show times (5:00 pm and 7:30 pm)

Length of time: 2-Hour Dinner Show | Castle opens 75 minutes before show time

Location

Medieval Times Atlanta Castle Website
Sugarloaf Mills Mall
5900 Sugarloaf Pkwy #517
Lawrenceville, GA 30043

Have your kids ever experienced Medieval Times?


Find More FUN!

Fun things to do in Atlanta, GA

Find lots more things to do in Atlanta!
We have a whole guide for that.

Great Atlanta Days Start Here: Things to Do in Atlanta, GA


Day Trips near Greenville, SC

Looking for more day trip ideas?
KA Guide to Day Trips Near Upstate, SC


medieval times atlanta georgia

Looking for a fun dinner and a show for your family? Look no further than Medieval Times in Atlanta, Georgia!

10 Spartanburg, SC Nail Salons: When Your Nails Need Some TLC

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Are you looking for the best Spartanburg, SC nail salons? Our readers have told us about their favorite nail salons to get some nail TLC in Spartanburg, SC.

Look over the list and find your new favorite place in Spartanburg to get pampered!

Spartanburg, SC Nail Salons

Nail Salons in Spartanburg, SC

We asked our Kidding Around Spartanburg readers and friends for their favorite Spartanburg nail salons, and we got recommendations for places all around the county. Next time you want some time on your own, consider one of these spots.

Places To Go With Your Child To Get A Mani-Pedi

Want to get your nails done with your child? There’s nothing like a mommy and me mani-pedi day for a little one-on-one time. Here are a couple of places you can do for a mani-pedi with kids.

5 Sisters Nails and Spa
914 E Main Street-Suite A, Spartanburg | 864.381.8109
*Readers tell us 5 Sisters Nails and Spa is a great choice for a mother-daughter mani-pedi.

Venetian Nails
99 Garner Road F, Spartanburg| 864.596.8828
*Readers tell us Venetian Nails is a great choice for a mother-daughter mani-pedi.

Miss Nails
1989 E Main Street, Spartanburg | 864.948.9779
*Readers tell us Miss Nails and Spa is a great choice for a mother-daughter mani-pedi.

Places To Go And Get Your Nails Done Without The Kids

There is nothing better than having someone else take care of you for a change! All moms need a little pampering from time to time. One of the easiest ways to get a little time to yourself is to head to one of our local nail salons for a manicure or pedicure.

Lovely Nails & Spa
246 E Blackstock Road – #D, Spartanburg | 864.574.3445

Sky Nails & Spa
2528 Boiling Springs Rd, Boiling Springs | 864.707.5667

Dorman Nails
131 Dorman Center Drive, Spartanburg | 864.587.7887

International School Of Beauty
7704 Asheville Highway, Spartanburg | 864.587.7764

I love International School of Beauty! They are students so the nails may not be perfect, but it was only $35 for this set and they are always so sweet!

Emily

Ang’s Nail Salon- formerly Linda’s Nails
1000 N Pine Street #36, Spartanburg | 864.327.9540

They have always been prompt and courteous

Ava

Nail District
10471 Asheville Highway, Inman | 864.909.2080

Nail District in Inman! They do an amazing job and the cutest designs!

Savannah

Shear’N Dippity Color Salon
197 Spartanburg Highway – Suite 229, Lyman | 864.439.0606

Definitely going with Courtney Lewis at Shear’N Dipity Color Salon in Lyman. She is so incredibly talented and creative – I love seeing her work! Plus, she gives ah-MAZING pedicures (it’s been way too long). I just love the Frozen one!

Brittany

Downtown Spartanburg, SC: Things to Do This Christmas Season

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Wondering what there is to do for Christmas in Spartanburg, SC? Spartanburg mom Jennifer has a family-friendly Christmas itinerary for Downtown Spartanburg. Read on to discover places to shop, eat, and play in Downtown Spartanburg this holiday season. 

The small-town charm of Spartanburg is best felt at Christmas. Downtown Spartanburg comes to life with twinkling lights and festive Christmas décor. If you are looking for ways to spend your time when the kids are out of school or to entertain out-of-town guests, look no further than a trip downtown.

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Surf City, North Carolina is the Perfect Beach Town for Any Family

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Searching for your perfect beach to visit this summer? Surf City, NC is a quiet coastal town that offers tons of family fun, great places to eat, peaceful beaches, and more! They even have a turtle rehabilitation center that your family can visit. Local mom Jennifer spent some time in Surf City with her family and had a wonderful time. You can check out her review below.

local beach Surf City, North Carolina

We are beach people, but we are quiet beach people. My family prefers to rent a beach house for a week rather than stay in a hotel. We like beaches where there is some space between your beach chairs and umbrellas. This is how we ended up in Surf City, NC for the first time this summer. And, we fell in love!

If you haven’t heard of Surf City, I’m not surprised. This is a small township located on Topsail Island. Maybe you’ve heard of Topsail Island, which is a 26-mile-long barrier island off the coast located close to Wilmington, NC. Whereas Topsail Island is 26-miles-long, Surf City is a small, walkable section of the island. And, it is where all the action happens.

Folly Beach beach access

Looking for other beaches to explore in the Southeast? Check out our list of 20+ Amazing Beaches in the Southeast that are family-friendly and waiting to be explored! 

What to Expect at Surf City, NC

Surf City is full of vacation rentals instead of large hotels. There are a few hotels on the island, but far more townhouses or beach houses for rent. Since this is a small township, almost everything was within walking distance of our rental. It was fantastic! We could walk to get food from restaurants, pick up groceries, or shop.

Another fun part of staying in Surf City was the number of surfers! While we didn’t see many large waves, we did see a large number of surfboards in the water each morning. And, the local Surf City Surf School offers daily surfing lessons to tourists.

Surf City is quiet during the week, which was perfect for my introverted family members. But, it is much more crowded on weekends. This is because the locals head to Surf City on Topsail Island because it has several public beaches, as well as a beautiful pier. On the weekend we visited, there were lots of people around; however, there were still far fewer people than you find at other beaches that are tourist destinations.

Stay in Surf City, NC

Find the perfect place to stay in Surf City using the map below.
Through an affiliate relationship with Stay22, Kidding Around earns when you book through the map.

Things to Do at Surf City

Surf City is a quaint beach town, so do not expect to find a ton of tourist attractions. Instead, plan to spend your days enjoying the beautiful beach. Take time to explore the town on foot. Visit the pier, shop the various boutiques and beach stores, and try out the restaurants. My favorite thing to do was walk across the street from the beach to the local bookstore.

Additionally, there is a mini-golf course in Surf City, as well as a turtle rescue and rehabilitation center. Both are family-friendly tourist attractions.

Topsail Island is close to Wilmington, NC, and Carolina Beach, NC. My family took a day trip to Carolina Beach and visited the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher and the Carolina Beach Boardwalk amusement park.

local shops in Surf City beach in North Carolina

Where to Eat when visiting Surf City

Since we were on vacation and could walk to multiple restaurants, we ate out a lot. And, I do not regret it one bit! The food was excellent. In particular, I grew incredibly fond of Shaka Taco, a fun taco restaurant connected to the Surf City Surf School. I ate there three times in a week. I know that sounds ridiculous, but I am still dreaming about their Shaka Nachos. Plus, there were several other local restaurants that my family enjoyed while on vacation, such as Daddy Mac’s Beach Grille and Shuckin’ Shack Oyster Bar.

Why We Plan to Go Back to Surf City

I love going to beach towns that feel like authentic beach towns, and this is the case with Surf City. It is not commercialized. It is quiet and quaint. My family felt safe enough there to walk everywhere. Plus, it was beautiful. Honestly, I would drive the five hours so that I could walk from the beach to eat at Shaka Taco again.

Surf City beach in North Carolina

What’s your family’s favorite nearby beach to visit?

The Perfect Spot for a Book, Coffee, & Treat in Downtown Spartanburg

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Local mom Jennifer Curry reviews the Hub City Bookshop and Little River Coffee Bar in downtown Spartanburg. These two wonderful businesses are conveniently located right beside each other and provide the perfect place to read, drink coffee, and eat a treat!

Located in the heart of downtown Spartanburg in the historic Masonic Temple resides three thriving businesses. Anchored by the award-winning Hub City Bookshop, these local businesses have become a focal point for the booming downtown movement by creating a spot for local residents and families to gather, share ideas, and shop.

Hub City Bookshop Spartanburg SC

Fun Things to do with kids in Spartanburg SC downtown

Check out these ideas for things to do in downtown Spartanburg!

Hub City Bookshop

Hub City Bookshop is more than just a local independent bookstore. They are known for the wide range of regional books and creative nonfiction titles published through Hub City Press. Known for supporting local authors as well as quality pieces, Hub City Bookshop has gained quite a reputation in the literary community.

It all started 20+ years ago, when three local Spartanburg writers (John Lane, Betsy Teter, and Gary Henderson) met to discuss the area’s struggles since the close of the textile mills. Rather than dwelling on the current difficulties, they formed the Hub City Writers Project (modeled after the Federal Writers Project). Together, they published the Hub City Anthology. The book was a success.

After, Hub City Writers Project continued to publish works specific to place, by people in the region about the region under Hub City Press books.

Front of Hub City Bookshop in Spartanburg, SC

In the meantime, the only local independent bookstore in Spartanburg closed, so the three founders approached the mayor to see about forming a local independent non-profit bookstore (with all the proceeds going to support creative writing education and independent book publishing). He agreed. A location was decided upon, and two other local businesses joined alongside the Hub City Writer’s Project to create a space for local events, coffee, and desserts. They made history.

Now that you understand the history and significance of our local bookshop, you should know that it is truly a wonderful store that offers a diverse range of books and book related products. In addition to featuring the Hub City Press works, they also sell popular bestsellers, new releases, children’s books, young adult books, regional authors, and more. If they do not have it in the store, they can order it for you.

Reading Corner in Hub City Bookstore

Little River Coffee Bar

Another unique local business in the Masonic Temple is the Little River Coffee Bar. The establishment is known for selling Little River Roasters coffee – a local business that is socially and ethically responsible. From knowing the farms where the beans come from to roasting it locally, Little River Roasters is a Spartanburg favorite.

Since this coffee shop not only serves the best local coffee and cold brew, the fact that it is attached to a bookshop and bakery makes it stand out. The Coffee Bar has several different sitting options – perfect for individuals working or for groups of friends wishing to chat. In addition to serving excellent coffee, they also host open mic nights and other events.

Looking for more great coffee in Spartanburg? Here are some of the best coffee shops in Spartanburg, SC.

A Great Place for Parents and Kids

Hub City Bookshop and Little River Coffee Bar are great local businesses your family will enjoy supporting. Families can take time to peruse the outstanding collection of children’s books and young adult books at Hub City Bookshop.

Families can purchase a book knowing they are supporting a local nonprofit, and then head next door for coffee and treats. These businesses are what make Spartanburg special and more reasons for you to love where you live.

What’s your favorite local business in Spartanburg?

Books on Broad

Looking for other bookstores? Here are 10+ Bookstores Near Greenville, SC.

100+ Things to Do Over Spring Break in Spartanburg, SC

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Spring Break is the perfect time to have some fun and explore Spartanburg. We’ve rounded up over 100 family-friendly things to do in Spartanburg this spring break. Spring Break for Spartanburg school districts is April 3-7, 2023. With this list, your kids will have no reason to say they are bored! 

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