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Create Something Amazing at Spartanburg County Public Library’s Maker Labs

The Headquarters Library in downtown Spartanburg, SC offers some of the most incredible resources for aspiring crafters in its Maker Labs! With two different Maker Labs for kids and adults, anyone can unleash their creativity and learn a new craft these cool new spaces.

Have a project idea you’ve always wanted to try, but don’t have the tools at home? The all-new Maker Labs at Spartanburg County Public Libraries are a dream come true for creators of ages and abilities! And they are available to the public through taxpayer funding, so most of the projects and equipment will come with no additional cost for library patrons.

Whether you’re an experienced crafter or just dipping your toes into something new, the Maker Labs offer state-of-the-art equipment, take-home kits, and live instruction to help you bring your ideas to life.

What is the Maker Lab?

Located upstairs in the Headquarters Library in downtown Spartanburg—just steps away from the new Planetarium Learning Center—the Kitty Black Perkins Maker Lab is a creative workspace designed for teens and adults ages 12 and up. The space is open during regular library hours, and skilled staff members are on hand anytime the library is open to help you learn how to use the equipment or troubleshoot your projects.

Got younger creatives in your crew? Head downstairs to the Junior Maker Lab, located in the Children’s Department of the Headquarter Library. This kid-friendly space is designed for children under age 12 and is open Monday through Friday from 2 to 6pm (closes early at 5pm on Fridays). It’s a perfect spot to let kids experiment with early STEM and craft tools, and no reservations are needed.

Maker Lab Equipment

Because your time may be limited, depending on which crafting equipment you want to use, it’s best to go in knowing what to expect. Many of these machines are available on a drop-in basis, but some equipment may require reservations or orientation before use. We highly recommend calling the Maker Lab at (864) 216-7554 to inquire about specific equipment before your first visit.

Here’s a quick list of some of the awesome tools available for use in the Maker Lab:

3D Printers (FDM & Resin)
NEW! 6-Needle Embroidery Machine
Sewing Machines
Long-Arm Quilting Machine
Laser Cutter
Sublimation Printer
Heat Presses
Button Maker & Bedazzler
Laminator
Cricut and Silhouette Machines
Computers with Adobe Suite, Canva Pro, and more
VHS-to-DVD and DVD-to-Digital converters

A full list of the equipment in the Maker Labs can be found online.

For many of these machines, you can find appropriate design files online at home, load them on to a flash drive, and bring them with you for use once you get the library.

Completed embroidery at the Spartanburg County Public Library SPARK space — Completed Embroidery from the Maker Lab

Try a Class or Workshop

If you’re not sure where to start, the library offers skill-building classes in the nearby Contec Classroom. These sessions are taught by knowledgeable staff or guest instructors and are usually either free or have a minimal materials fee. Popular past classes have included basic sewing, painting, and even chainmail for beginners! You can find upcoming class information on the Library’s crafting calendar.

Take-Home Maker Kits

If you don’t have the time to craft away from home, but would still like to give a new hobby a test drive, the make-away kits are just for you. These kits include different kinds of crafting sets that can be checked out for weeks at a time and used at home.

There are various options, such as wood whittling, jewelry making, knitting, crocheting, rainbow loom, and more. The cake-baking kits are especially popular, with different character-themed baking pans in each one. These are nice to be able to borrow, because most people would not use them more than once if they bought them just for their own household. Take-home kits can also be requested for pickup at your nearest library branch if the Headquarters location is too far away or inconvenient for you.

Check Out the Maker Labs for Yourself

There are so many more things to explore in the Maker Labs than we mention here!

We hope this inspires you to take advantage of this truly unique resource at the Spartanburg County Public Libraries. And don’t worry if a project sounds intimidating. There is a patient, knowledgeable team at the library, just waiting to show you all of the crafting fun you’ve been missing!

Location: Headquarters Library
151 South Church Street, Spartanburg, SC 29306
Kitty Black Perkins Maker Lab Hours:
9am-8pm on Monday-Thursday
9am-6pm on Friday
10am-5pm on Saturday
1pm-5pm on Sunday
Junior Maker Lab Hours:
2-6pm on Monday-Thursday
2-5pm on Friday
Contact: (864) 216-7554
Maker Lab Webpage

Have you taken advantage of the Maker Labs?

Enjoy life without breaking the bank with these Fun, Free, and Unbelievably Cheap Things to Do Near Greenville, SC.

Bike, Walk, Run: Have Fun on The Doodle Trail in Easley, SC

If you are looking for biking, walking, and running all in one place, then you have to try out the Doodle Trail! Easley, SC decided to pave a route out of an old train track path, located in Pickens County, while also adding a park for kids to enjoy. If you love exploring Greenville’s Swamp Rabbit Trail or The Mary Black Rail Trail in Spartanburg, you’ll want to check out the Doodle Trail.

🚲 Quick Look: Doodle Trail

8.5-mile paved rail trail between Easley & Pickens.
Great for biking, walking & running.
Trailhead at Easley Doodle Park: playground, restrooms, bike rentals.
Family-friendly, stroller & dog friendly 🐶.
Restrooms only at ends, trail crosses roads, be cautious.
Open daily dawn–dusk.
Fun stop near downtown Easley (The Silos).

The Doodle Trail in Easley, South Carolina

If you are looking for more outdoor fun to be had in Pickens or Easley, Kidding Around has guides to spending the day in each town.
Spending Day in Pickens, SC | Spending a Day in Easley, SC

The Doodle Trail is an 8.5-mile Rail Trail that connects Easley and Pickens. I’ll be honest, I hadn’t learned of it until recently. That funny name kind of sticks with you once you hear it, though. The name of the trail is a remnant of the day when it was a working train track.

In 1898, the train service carried passengers and cargo back and forth between the towns, without the ability to turn around on its return to Pickens. So it scurried backward from Easley like a doodlebug, hence the name. The paved trail opened on Memorial Day weekend in 2015 and has only grown in popularity over the last decade!

The Doodle Park

We like parking where the original trailhead is at the Easley Doodle Park. The park has restrooms, a playground, a picnic area, and a place to rent bicycles for use on the trail. The trailhead, a mile-long extension, is closer to downtown near the Silos. My kids love the park, and we can’t visit the trail without stopping there.

There is a Little Free Library location, as well as the Born Learning Trail. According to the United Way of Pickens Website, “Born Learning Trails are interactive, walkable trails of signs for caregivers and children which foster early learning opportunities. Each sign suggests fun outdoor games designed to boost children’s language and literacy skills while helping families get active together.”

There are three more of these trails in the area:

J.B. “Red” Owens Recreation Complex, 111 Walkers Way, Easley
Jaycee Park, 149 N. Homestead Road, Pickens
West End Elementary School Walking Track, Easley (only during non-school hours)

Playground area at Doodle Park in Pickens, South Carolina — Doddle Park

Enjoying The Doodle Trail: Easley, SC

There are so many things to see while you’re on the trail. On our last visit, I asked my kids to pretend we were pioneers and to look for things we could forage to eat. As I’m sure you can imagine, it was interesting. Kind of like a real-time Oregon Trail, minus rampant dysentery.

We found grapes, mysteriously hanging from trees over the trail. The kids loved looking for things we might eat if we were making our way across the frontier. We found a stream to drink from (not really, PLEASE do not do this), trees for shelter, and other ways to survive our imaginary trip. My kids got so creative, and it made the trail so interesting.

The trail is paved, wide, and very stroller and bike-friendly. We haven’t made it from one end to the other yet, but every time we go, we walk a little further before turning around. It’s made a great goal for the kids and me to go on a round-trip in one visit.

Things To Know About the Doodle Trail in Easley

The only restrooms on the trail are at each end, so be sure to use the facilities at the trailhead. This way, you hopefully won’t have to stray from the trail to try and find a restroom.
Dogs are permitted but must be leashed at all times. Dog waste bags are available at the trailheads.
The trail crosses streets at several points. Please use the stop signs to keep everyone safe.
Remind your children that the trail is shared by others, and a quick lesson in giving others the right of way will allow everyone on the trail to have a good experience.
The Doodle Trail is open from dawn to dusk, 7 days a week.
You can find a really handy map on the City of Easley Doodle Trail website.

Doodle Trail
Railroad Street, Pickens, SC

You will have a blast when you Spend a Day in Easley, SC!

Love to bike? Check out these family-friendly biking trails near Greenville, SC for a biking adventure.

10+ Haunted Places Near Greenville, SC to Visit for a Good Scare

Inside: Find a list of haunted places near Greenville, SC to explore.

If you love a good scare, then these haunted places in Greenville, SC, and the Upstate will give you the heebie jeebies. Allow local parent, Chad, to tell you about some of the most popular haunted places in the Upstate and the legends behind them. Then, you can decide if you want to summon up the courage and visit these spooky places.

You can also spend the night in a haunted hotel, rental, or cabin at one of these spooky places in the Southeast.

The start of October always helps jump-start the fall season. We start seeing lots of pumpkin spice goodies to eat and drink, leaves changing colors, ghosts, apple farms, orchards everywhere, and cooler temperatures. Wait, ghosts?!

If you’re inclined to be creeped out, scared, get the collywobbles, or in general dislike the paranormal activity, then this isn’t the article for you. On the other hand, if ghost stories and other supernatural occurrences are right up your dark spooky alley, you won’t want to just skim through this post!

The entirety of South Carolina has its fair share of ghost legends. From Hilton Head to Myrtle Beach, through Columbia, and up to Spartanburg, you will find ghost stories. For now, we’re going to focus on the Upstate. One of the fun aspects of Upstate ghosts is the huge amount of sightings and legends in Spartanburg.

From Hell’s Gate to Converse College, there are no shortages of opportunities to be found. Be advised that all claims hereafter are just that. Your experiences may vary at any site, and if you visit, be sure to follow all local ordinances.

Ghost Hot Spots in Spartanburg, SC

Oakwood Cemetery in Spartanburg is considered by many as one of the most actively haunted places in SC. Known by the moniker of Hell’s Gate, the list of things that people claim to have experienced is lengthy. Cold spots, orbs, children’s laughter, rapidly drained batteries in electronics, plumes of smoke, fog, the feeling of being watched, and a young boy asking to be played with are all routine reports.

Live over near Converse College? Well, guess what, Converse College has a large list of paranormal activities.

There is a legend of a friendly boy in Williams dorm.
Pell Hall has a White Lady ghost. It is somewhat of a hostile female ghost that has been known to lock people in rooms and be otherwise unpleasant.
The Evans building often has the sounds of sneakers on the basketball court, and bouncing ball sounds while the building is empty.
In the Hazel B. Abbott Theatre, you may find that the ghost of Hazel Abbott. Strange noises are routinely heard in the prop room, and you can get a long-lasting chill if you sit in her chair.
Most significantly, at Wilson Hall is a stairway up to a bell tower. This door is locked, which is good. The ghost here is reported to be very hostile, angry, and dangerous. He is also reported to have red eyes by the few that have seen him in the past.

South Carolina School for the Deaf and Blind, also in Spartanburg, is known to have the ghost of a woman who ran the school during the Civil War.

Foster’s Tavern, a historic landmark in Spartanburg has been known to have footsteps and sounds from empty staircases, and the sound of horses on the roof!

The Poinsett Bridge in Greenville, South Carolina — Poinsett Bridge in Greenville County

Haunted Places in Greenville, SC

The Westin Poinsett Hotel in Greenville has guests report noises and knocks in empty hallways and seeing an old man in their room.

The Poinsett Bridge in northern Greenville County. While the bridge is not open to vehicle traffic, it is known to be open to mist, orbs, and intense feelings of dread. It is said to be haunted by several different ghosts.

The Greenville Tuberculosis Hospital isn’t there anymore. Some people knew it by another name, The Devil’s Castle. It was torn down many years ago. But it has a new name and many new visitors since Herdklotz Park was built on the same site. There are many theories as to why this area would be haunted. Some claim that most of the foundation and even some underground areas remain intact under the playground. Since the park opened, it seems much of the dread people report has gone. Often now people say they just hear things when the park should be quiet.

Springwood Cemetery in Northern Greenville County is said to be haunted by a woman named Fannie Heldmann after she drowned in the Reedy River, driven insane by her father’s attempts for her to marry his business partner. This cemetery has a lot of history, so it has creepy written all over it! It is considered by many to be one of the most haunted places in Greenville, SC.

Haunted Highways

Old Bramlett Road in Greenville is said to be haunted by the ghost of Willie Earle. He was killed by a mob in the mid-1940s. People have claimed to see a dark form come out of the woods and come towards them. They also are said to have heard sounds from a frenzied group of people.

On Highway 11, just on the Greenville side of the border with Pickens County grows an old, gnarled tree. The story is that a witch was buried there around the time of the Civil War, with a seedling marking the site. The tree is said to rarely bloom, never have animals in or nearby it, and that fallen leaves don’t land on the ground under its branches. To find this tree, you WILL have to hike. The general consensus, however, is that you don’t look for it and if you see it stay away.

Old Piedmont Highway in Greenville is known as the Ghost Road in some circles. There are stories of ghosts trying to warn people of dangerous turns on the road. People have also seen lights following vehicles late at night.

Haunted Spots In South Carolina

Near Rose Hill Plantation in Union County, there is an old steel bridge, and legend has it that in the 1950s a woman threw her baby off the bridge. Some people have heard a baby cry and others have also seen a woman yelling for her baby.

Seven Devils Bridge in Woodruff has a peculiar phenomenon attached to it. Reports are that at midnight exactly, people are unable to cross the bridge and break down crying. This bridge is not open for vehicles.

Cry Baby Creek Bridge in Anderson is said to be haunted because of the sounds of a crying baby that can be heard when walking the bridge at night. No thank you!

Three Bridges Road is located in Powdersville and is said to be haunted by the ghost of a woman who roams the road screaming.

And again, please remember that if you want to check into any of these stories, PLEASE follow all local laws. Many locations are on private land, and it may not be safe to just wander about for many reasons.

Meet Some Outdoorsy Ghosts & Witches at These Haunted Waterfalls

Haunted houses and spooky things to do in Greenville, SC

If you’re looking for more spooky fun, check out our Haunted House, Trails, Woods & More Guide!

Explore the haunted history of Downtown Greer, SC with Greer Ghost Tours this October!

Greer Ghost Tour in Greer, South Carolina

Are you looking for more haunted places near Columbia, SC?

Check out our 13 Spooky and Haunted Places to Visit Near Columbia, SC post.

Are you ready to visit some haunted places in Greenville, SC?

Trick-or-Treat Door to Door in These Greenville Neighborhoods

🍬👻The best trick or treat in Greenville spots for Halloween, where families can find safe streets, festive fun, and plenty of candy!

Looking for the best trick-or-treat spots in Greenville spots for your family? If your own neighborhood isn’t the best place to go door to door for Halloween fun, you’re not alone. Many Upstate families search for “trick or treat neighborhoods near me” to find safe, festive, and candy-filled areas where kids can enjoy the magic of Halloween night. Whether it’s safety concerns, a lack of nearby trick-or-treaters, or just wanting a livelier atmosphere, Greenville has plenty of neighborhoods and community events that make Halloween unforgettable.

So if you want the door-to-door trick-or-treating experience this year but aren’t sure what neighborhood to visit, this is the list for you. We asked our readers where the most “Halloween visitor-friendly” spots in the Upstate were, and this is what they told us.

If you need a map of the best places to go, we have one right here!

Halloween Guide, trick or treat in Greenville, SC

Want to see all the Halloween and Trick or Treat Events in Greenville?

🎃 Go to our Halloween Guide!

You’ll find fun events, trunk-or-treat and trick-or-treats, and lots more!

Parents, these are recommendations gathered from our readers. Please always use your judgment regarding your child’s safety trick-or-treating and consuming treats in these or any other neighborhoods.

Great Neighborhoods for Trick-or-Treating in Greenville

Earle Street, Greenville

“Earle Street has several officers directing traffic at the red light on North Main. We usually start on one end and travel down and back up the other side. They have so many decorated houses, fire breathers, singers, bands, games, and other fun stuff at each house.

Crystal

Earle Street is off North Main in Greenville.

Half Mile Lake, Greenville

Half Mile Lake subdivision is located off State Park Road near Altamont Road.

Riverdale Subdivision, Greer

Riverdale Subdivision Greer across the street from Clayton Homes off Wade Hampton Blvd

Veronica

Riverdale is located just west of the Highway 80 and Wade Hampton intersection in Lyman.

O’Neal Village in Greer

We had two readers mention this North Greer neighborhood, located off of 101.

We love O’Neal Village in Greer.

Karyn

Subdivision off hwy 101 right before oneal Baptist church on right

Gwen

Fountain Inn

While it’s not a neighborhood, it does come reader-recommended, so we are including Main Street, Fountain Inn.

I grew up with amazing Halloween memories there and they’re still carrying it on.

Susan

Kids dressed up for Halloween as they trick-or-treat in Greenville

Neely Farms, Simpsonville

Neely farms hands down!!

Gabrielle

Orchard Farms, Simpsonville

Orchard Farms is located in the heart of the Golden Strip in Simpsonville and is recommended by several readers.

Woodland Creek, Travelers Rest

Woodland Creek is located in Travelers Rest, with plenty of houses to trick or treat at. Additionally, 110 Pipers Glen CT in Woodland Creek offers a free haunted house/experience.

Morning Mist, Simpsonville

A few readers recommended Morning Mist in Simpsonville, saying that the decorating is amazing. The neighborhood is off of Georgia Road.

Silver Leaf, Greer

At least 3 readers recommend the Silver Leaf community for trick or treating. It’s located in Greer off of Old Spartanburg Road. This neighborhood is very busy, so keep that in mind. Parking is best at the grocery store lot next door.

Amber Oaks Farm, Greer

Someone recommended Amber Oaks Farm in Greer near Blue Ridge High School. It’s located off Pennington Road and Highway 101.

Tymberbrook, Lyman

Tymberbrook in Lyman, it’s a big older neighborhood and soooo many of the houses are involved, lots of kids and costumes lots of people having driveway parties!!!

Tymberbrook Drive is located in Lyman, north of Wade Hampton near Lake Lyman.

Lyman Mill Village

Lyman Mill Village! Park your car and go walking all around. Most of the homes give candy and there are trunk or treats from churches. Police have roads blocked for safety!

Alexandra

North Main

The Neighborhood of North Main Street just above Wade Hampton, got a lot of likes from our readers, too! According to Kidding Around fans, East and West Earle Street sound like a good place to trick or treat.

Honey Creek, Anderson

The Honey Creek subdivision in Anderson came highly recommended. It’s near Arnold’s and South Main Street, and is technically in Belton.

I grew up with amazing Halloween memories there and they’re still carrying it on.

Miranda

Rose Hill, Powdersville

Rose Hill for the Powdersville folks! Almost every house is decorated and most set up tables to hand out candy! Get there early to park (not on the grass) there are 500+ easy trick or treaters every year!

Maggie

Rose Hill is a newer subdivision in Powdersville off 3 Bridges Road and Mt Airy Church Road.

Neighborhood trick-or-treating in Greenville SC

If you’re in the east of Greenville and are venturing into Spartanburg, be sure to check out this handy map for trick-or-treating in Spartanburg, SC, neighborhoods!

Tips for Trick-or-Treating as a Guest in a Neighborhood

Local mom Dallas, had this great bit of advice for those visiting other neighborhoods on Halloween :

Parents: bring a trash bag to help pick up the discarded wrappers and random trash that inevitably happens when we visit neighboring communities for better loot. We live in a rural area and go to local subdivisions and noticed the residents are SUPER appreciative if you help out a bit and don’t leave their neighborhoods trashed.

Dallas

I once noticed something being done and have now started doing it when we visit other neighborhoods on Halloween. I bring glow necklaces and bracelets to hand out to kids walking past us trick-or-treating. It helps keep kids safe, we’re helping to contribute to the loot of trick-or-treaters in a non-allergenic way, PLUS everyone loves glo-sticks!

We hope that no matter where you decide to go, we hope everyone has a safe and fun Halloween!

In addition to all the places our readers shared with us, there are many community events that you can find on the Kidding Around Greenville Guide to Halloween Events and Trick-or-Treating in Greenville and Spartanburg.

Hands On! Children’s Museum in Hendersonville, NC is the Perfect Day Trip

Have you visited Hand On! Children’s Museum in Hendersonville, NC? It’s the perfect place for kids to play and learn with parents and grandparents. The small footprint of Hands On is great for a kid-sized adventure without being too overwhelming. You’ll find Hands On! along Downtown Hendersonville’s beautiful Main Street, beside Black Bear Coffee.

Hands On! Children’s Museum

Hands On! Children’s Museum has a target audience of children aged ten and under. The museum is all located on one floor which is great for parents keeping track of multiple kids.

The smaller front section contains a fire truck play area, a dinosaur dig exhibit, an art area, and a Kilwin’s Ice Cream-themed pretend play area.

Fire truck at Hands On in Hendersonville, NC

Behind that, you’ll find the larger open play space where kids can pretend to shop at the grocery store, cook a meal, and pick apples. There’s also a pretend play doctor’s office with a baby care station, a dentist’s office, an engineering area, and a theater.

The middle of this Hendersonville children’s museum features a beautiful mountain play area with a fun stairway that leads to a slide in the rocks. The bubbling sounds of both a natural-looking waterfall feature and a fun water play area add to the natural mountain scene and fill the whole museum with the calming sounds of running water.

Babies and Toddlers at Hands On! WNC

There is a small area set aside just for babies and toddlers at Hands On! In this area you’ll find soft mats, a low table and chairs, many sensory toys suitable for toddlers and babies, plus blocks and puzzles.

Rocking chairs in this area overlook the mountain in the center of the museum.

Admission and Hours at Hands On! Hendersonville, NC

Your $12 admission allows you to enter and leave the museum for a full day. Every person pays admission – even adults. Infants are $4. Hands On! is open Tuesdays to Saturdays from 9 am – 5 pm. (Closed Sundays and Mondays, except for special holidays and seasonal breaks.)

Memberships are available and if you think you would make the trip to Hendersonville more than a few times a year, a membership could be the perfect option for your family. (Remind grandparents that museum memberships make great birthday and Christmas gifts!)

Kilwins play area at Hands On in Hendersonville, NC

Water feature at Hands On in Hendersonville

Classes, Parties, and More

Hands On! offers regular classes that are often free with your admission. Classes range in topics from science to reading to crafting. Summer is filled with weekly class options – and the convenient part for parents is that one child can attend a class while the other children play. Throughout the year there are weekly classes – such as storytime and science classes, plus other weekly options. Be sure to check their Hands On website or Facebook page for all the details.

Hands On! also offers an easy and enjoyable option for birthday parties. They provide a party room for the cake and gifts and then, of course, the museum is all the entertainment you will need for your birthday guests.

More to Do in Hendersonville, NC

Downtown Hendersonville has so many fun things to do. Hop out of the museum for lunch at one of the family-friendly Main Street restaurants. Options like pizza and sandwiches and an iconic soda fountain shop across the street can make Hendersonville a great day trip destination. Right next door to the museum is Black Bear Coffee Shop with great coffee beverages, treats, sandwiches and a lot more. And, McFarlan’s Bakery is right across the street. Pick up some donuts, cookies, pastries, or even a whole pie to bring home!

Gather a few of your girlfriends and strap the kids in their booster seats. A day at Hands On! will be a day the kids will really remember and love

Hands On! Children’s Museum
318 N. Main Street, Hendersonville, NC
828.697.8333

Has your family ever visited the Hands On! Children’s Museum?

Don’t miss our full guide to Hendersonville, NC Things to Do.

A Guide To Restaurants in Downtown Greenville, SC

Looking for restaurants in Downtown Greenville, SC? Greenville, South Carolina, has made its mark on the culinary map with a selection of well-respected restaurants. This is a list of Downtown Greenville restaurants, sorted by meals and occasions. Plus, a list of restaurants along Main Street downtown.

Dinner in Greenville

Lunch in Greenville

Breakfast in Greenville

Dessert in Greenville

Restaurants on Main Street

Best to Grab a Cocktail

Romantic Restaurants in Downtown Greenville

Best Restaurants for Kids

Restaurants for Business

Take Out in Downtown Greenville

Dining Near Your Downtown Hotel

Diners have no shortage of choices regardless of what they might be craving! From a casual lunch to a romantic dinner date, every kind of meal can be found in downtown Greenville.

Complete Restaurant Guide to Greenville, SC

Looking for more restaurants in the Greenville area? Here’s your Ultimate Guide to Greenville’s restaurants.

(more…)

Huge Catawba Science Center is a Fun Day Trip in Hickory, NC

The Catawba Science Center in Hickory, NC has so much to explore! See animals, build, learn about physics, space, gardens and more! We checked it out and have all the information you need to enjoy a fun day trip from Greenville, SC, or Charlotte, NC, or anywhere in between!

About Catawba Science Center

Exhibits

Aquarium

Ever since I got my Roper Mountain Science Center membership, I’ve started planning day trips and homeschool field trips based on where my family can get in for free or half-price using the reciprocal membership benefits. The Catawba Science Center in Hickory, NC was on the list, so that’s where we went.

Are you looking for more educational things to do near the Upstate? Check out our educational adventures post!

Educational Adventures near Greenville SC

About the Catawba Science Center

The Catawba Science Center is a huge, 35,000 square feet science center with two buildings. One houses the marine and space science exhibits. The other houses the majority of the energy, geology, anatomy, and physical science exhibits, as well as the traveling exhibit.

They have a planetarium also (we didn’t go to a show there when we visited), plus homeschool classes, summer camps, field trips, science programs, scout camps, and even a technology club. My kids are 11 and 7 and we saw kids of all ages enjoying the exhibits.

Catawba Science Center interactive exhibit

Exhibits at the Catawba Science Center

Hands-On Construction

Behind the front desk is a huge, open room that has all sorts of hands-on exhibits. When we went, they had building blocks and pool noodles where kids (and, ahem, adults) could let their imaginations run wild and build whatever they wanted. In the same room were a couple of tables where kids (and, ahem, adults) could construct little purses, rings, and whatever else they wanted out of duct tape.

Children playing with blocks at science museum

Next to the duct tape were more tables that held small little wheels, blocks, and connector hickory sticks (they have these same things at the Roper Mountain Science Center) where guests can build small cars, buildings, or invent their own construction projects.

Gross Labs

Moving on from the construction room and down the opposite hall is a fun exhibit called the Gross Labs. Kids of all ages will get a kick out of these exhibits that use kid-friendly language to demonstrate the actual work of scientists.

For example, the “Poop Analyzer” exhibit actually demonstrates what a gastroenterologist would do for his or her work. There’s also a Snot Surveyor, which demonstrates the job of an allergist. I don’t remember what the Fart Scientist does but it was an interesting display.

Energy Avenue

This was a favorite exhibit since it offered the chance to launch rockets indoors. They also had a pulley chair system where kids sat in a chair and used ropes to pull themselves up (The Children’s Museum of the Upstate in Greenville also has this particular exhibit). There are also all kinds of hands-on energy exhibits in this hall for kids to learn about conduction and static electricity.

Velo-City

This is a room dedicated to physics but in a kid-friendly way. Kids can race balls down a track, build superhighways on the wall, and see how fast the balls can go down them.

This room is hands-on and includes activities demonstrating force, friction, and kinetic and potential energy.

Catawba Science Center Velo-City race track

Naturalist Center

This exhibit has an extensive collection of fossils, arachnids, shells, and animal hides. They even have a huge python skin to touch and feel.

Dozens of rocks, gems, and minerals are in the same exhibit. This was super cool since my kids and I are currently studying Geology so it was neat to see all the neat gems and minerals pictured in our books.

Naturalist center at Catawba Science Center

Little Kids Treehouse

My kids were too old for this exhibit, but it looked so fun! They have an area for kids under 5 years old to play in a little treehouse, climb through tunnels, and explore the garden and hide-and-seek panels.

Marine Science and Aquarium at the Land to Sea exhibits

Next to the main building is the marine lab and astronomy center. The Land to Sea galleries are gorgeous and definitely worth stopping by.

Turtle eating lettuce in science exhibit

The land area of the exhibit has a herpetology lab with lots of different lizards, as well as several beautiful tortoise habitats, an alligator, and an iguana.

The aquarium has both fresh and saltwater fish plus an 8,000-gallon shark and stingray exhibit with a touch tank. We got to see staff feed shrimp to the sharks and rays, and the helpful staff member shared some interesting facts and answered guests’ questions.

You’ll also see a gorgeous turtle habitat and a freshwater ray. These rooms were beautiful, peaceful, and staffed with a museum employee who had lots of information to share.

We spent a lot of time in the Land to Sea gallery and I think it was one of our favorite spots!

Checking out the Puffer fish at the Catawba Science Center

The Planetarium and Outdoor Courtyard

These were the two things we didn’t do so I can’t say exactly what they were like. It was raining so we didn’t go to the outdoor courtyard play area, but it looked really fun and had a climbing wall!

The planetarium has a 30-foot dome and an admission ticket includes a show there.

Children playing at an interactive exhibit

Visiting the Catawba Science Center

The science center is open Wednesday – Saturday from 10 am – 4 pm and Sunday 1 pm – 4 pm. Tickets are $16 for adults and $14 for ages 3 and up. Check their website for information about featured attractions.

We spent about two hours there but you could certainly stay longer if you went to a planetarium show or took your time going through all the exhibits.

Day Trip

The science center is about two hours from Greenville, an hour and a half from Charlotte, NC, an hour from the Biltmore, and an hour to Kings Mountain State Park. We went to the Schiele Museum of Natural History after visiting the science center. It was only about 40 minutes away and was a great add-on for the day trip.

Catawba Science Center Website
243 Third Avenue NE, Hickory, NC
828.332.8169

Are you looking for more fun day trips? Check out our Kidding Around Guide to Day Trips!

These Restaurants in Greenville Are Open on Thanksgiving Day: Dine-in or Take-Out and Catering

Looking for some restaurants serving Thanksgiving Dinner in Greenville, SC? Do you find cooking Thanksgiving dinner to be a little overwhelming? Honestly—preparing a Thanksgiving meal is no joke. Making the turkey, gravy, mashed potatoes, stuffing, cranberry sauce, pumpkin pie, and various other side dishes can be hard and take a lot of time. Some families choose to totally skip it and go out for dinner or order in and pick up.

Our list has restaurants offering dine-in service, full take-out meals, and even restaurants where you can just grab a turkey or a few sides to supplement your own home-cooked meal. There are lots of great restaurant options for Thanksgiving in Greenville, SC to make your most delicious Thanksgiving dinner dreams come true.

Most of our local grocery stores are also offering Thanksgiving meals, or at least part of them, for pickup.

Thanksgiving Restaurants in Greenville, SC

Looking for more fun things to do in Greenville & Spartanburg for Thanksgiving? Here’s your Thanksgiving Celebration Guide!

Thanksgiving Dine-in and Full Meal Take-Out Options

Restaurants where you can order turkey, individual sides, or catered meal for Thanksgiving

Where to dine in or order take-out on Thanksgiving in Greenville for 2025

Sullivan’s Metropolitan Grill

208 South Main Street, Anderson, SC | 864.226.8945
Sullivan’s offers a Thanksgiving buffet. Call and reserve your table!

Restaurant 17

10 Road of Vines, Travelers Rest | 864.528.3340
If you’re looking for a feast, then look no future. Restaurant 17 will host a Thanksgiving feast with a carving station, a dessert station, and everything you can imagine for the perfect meal. They have seating times available at 11 am, 1:30 pm, and 4 pm. Make a reservation asap at 864.635.2894.

The Lazy Goat

170 River Place, Greenville | 864.679.5229
The restaurant will be serving a Thanksgiving family-style meal from 10 am – 6 pm. Call to reserve a table or do so online via OpenTable. The cost is $42/adults, $17/children 7 – 12, and those 6 and under dine for free.

Soby’s

207 South Main Street, Greenville | 864.232.7007
Soby’s reservations for Thanksgiving Day fill up quickly (if they are sold out, call and check for cancellations periodically before the big day). For Thanksgiving, they are serving an a la carte menu of favorites like a glazed turkey plate, braised beef short rib, shrimp and grits, traditional Thanksgiving desserts, and more.

Up on the Roof

250 Riverplace, Greenville | 864.242.4000
Up on the Roof is open on Thanksgiving Day and throwing out the turkey. Grab your favorite rooftop restaurant bites and a cocktail. (And if you really want a little turkey, you can snag one of their wild turkey bourbon shots). Oh, and they are offering Thanksgiving Day bourbon flights while supplies last. Cheers. Reservations requested.

Halls Chophouse

550 South Main Street, Greenville | 864.335.4200
Halls Chophouse will be open on Thanksgiving Day from 11 am to 7 pm. Halls has a special dine-in Thanksgiving day a la carte menu. Make your reservation today! You can also grab a to-go meal with all the trimmings.

Patterson Kitchen + Bar

120 Halston Avenue, Greenville | 864.09.6484
NOTE: 2025 Information is not available yet. Make reservations at Patterson Kitchen + Bar for a special Thanksgiving dinner experience. The restaurant is accepting reservations from 3 – 7 pm. They’re also offering a to-go menu featuring a whole roasted turkey with natural turkey gravy OR spiral ham with bourbon apple jus, a variety of sides including challah bread stuffing and brown butter roasted cauliflower, and desserts. The to-go meals are $255 and serve up to 6 people. Order by November 21st for pickup on November 27th. Call 864-509-6484 to order.

CityRange Steakhouse

615 Haywood Road, Greenville | 864.286.9018
CityRange will be open from 11 am – 4 pm on Thanksgiving Day. Reservations are needed. You can also order your Thanksgiving Feast to go. Options include ham or turkey with glaze and mashed potatoes or sweet potato mash, creamed corn, orange cranberry relish, pumpkin praline cheesecake, and chocolate torte. Meals serve a family of 4. Order by 12 pm on November 22nd

The Nose Dive

116 S Main Street, Greenville | 864.373.7300
The Nose Dive takes Thanksgiving Day reservations for 11:30 am to 4 pm, offering their Autumn Dinner menu of Urban Comfort food.

Roost

220 North Main Street, Greenville | 864.298.2424
NOTE: 2025 Information is not available yet. Roost offers a fully loaded buffet for your Thanksgiving feast, with everything you can imagine, from 10 am – 5:30 pm.

BrickTop’s

1 North Main Street, Ste. H, Greenville | 864.794.3830
BrickTop’s in Greenville will be offering a full Thanksgiving carry-out meal. You can choose a Roast Turkey Dinner, Prime Rib Dinner, or Beef Wellington Dinner. Each meal includes a house salad, whipped potatoes, corn, stuffing, and rolls. If you need more side dishes they are available as add-ons. Orders must be placed by 5 pm on November 23rd.

Maestro’s Bistro and Dinner Club

104 Main Street, Greenville | 864.248.0702
Make your reservations soon, because Maestro’s Bistro’s Thanksgiving Day meal fills up quickly. They offer traditional roasted turkey or fried turkey as their main proteins, with sides such as garlic mashed potatoes, stuffing, and many more sides to choose from. Their full menu is also available if you’re looking for a meal that ventures outside of traditional favorites. Plates are $52 per person.

Stax’s Drake House

5112 North Howard Avenue, Landrum | 864.457.2533
NOTE: 2025 Information is not available yet. Stax’s Drake House will serve a traditional Thanksgiving dinner from 11 am to 3:30 pm.

Tavola

620 Bridgeway Blvd, Simpsonville | 864-319-4648
Celebrate Thanksgiving this year at Tavola! Tavola will be open on Thursday, November 27 from 11:00am – 4:00pm, serving a family-style menu featuring Italian inspired holiday fare. Pricing is $44/adults, $17/children 7 – 12 and those 6 and under are complimentary. They also have our children’s menu available on request.

National Chains open on Thanksgiving 2025

California Dreaming

40 Beacon Drive, Greenville | 864.234.9000
A huge Thanksgiving menu is being offered at California Dreaming with Thanksgiving Dinner including Oven Roasted Turkey Breast, Pecan Praline Sweet Potatoes, Green Beans and Carrots, Mashed Potatoes, Southern Herb Stuffing, and more – $29.95 | $14.95/Kids. Call to make reservations.

Ruths Chris Steakhouse

Greenville, SC
The famous steakhouse is serving a Thanksgiving dinner where guests can choose between a traditional Thanksgiving dinner, complete with slow-roasted turkey and a signature side item of your choice like garlic mashed potatoes, green beans, or creamed spinach, plus pumpkin cheesecake, or ordering from their regular menu. They will be offering a full Thanksgiving meal for pickup this year as well. Complete Thanksgiving Turkey Dinner $48/Adults – $17/Kids.

Cracker Barrel

Greenville & Spartanburg, SC
Cracker Barrel is serving a special Thanksgiving menu in their dining rooms. You can also order a meal online that serves 10 people, with the choice of entree, sides, and rolls or biscuits.

Where to Get a Turkey, Sides, or Catered Thanksgiving Meal 2025

The restaurants below are offering catered meals or individual pieces of a meal like a smoked turkey or delicious sides and desserts. Use them to supplement your home-cooked meal and make the meal preparations a little easier!

Larkins

Greenville, SC
Larkins offers a Thanksgiving Take & Bake Kit, complete with all the classics. The kit has 7 lbs of turkey breast, turkey gravy, cranberry sauce, four cheese mac, whipped potatoes, sweet potato casserole and pecan praline topping, cornbread stuffing, green beans, rolls, and apple cake! Yum! Each kit will feed 6-8 people comfortably, and costs $299 per kit.

Ji-Roz

Greenville, SC
Enjoy a traditional Thanksgiving meal with high-quality ingredients from Ji-Roz. You can pick up HOT and ready for your own oven on Thanksgiving Day from 10 am to 12 pm. They offer whole roasted turkey for $89, an abundance of sides like greek-style green beans, macaroni and cheese casserole, homemade cornbread dressing, and a lot more options. Their side platters feed 12. To order, visit their website, click “order”, choose Thanksgiving Day as your schedule, and scroll down to the bottom of the list until you see “Thanksgiving Menu”.

Rocky’s Hot Chicken Shack

Greenville, SC
Rocky’s Hot Chicken Shack is offering Thanksgiving sides, appetizers, and desserts. You’ll find options like deviled eggs with candied bacon and pimento cheese dip, as well as mac and cheese, corn pudding, and collard greens. And don’t forget one of their desserts!

Chophouse ’47 Sold out for 2025

36 Beacon Drive, Greenville | 864.286.8700
Their catered meal serves up to eight people and includes the turkey, all the sides like honey glazed carrots, cornbread, two kinds of potatoes, and cranberry sauce for $245. Must pick up between 10 am and 1 pm on Thanksgiving Day.

Lewis Barbeque

214 Rutherford Street, Greenville | 864.513.6045
Preorder a delicious turkey breast, USDA Prime Beef brisket, and delicious sides like green chili corn pudding and mac and cheese from Lewis Barbeque Greenville.

Fountain Foods Market

Fountain Inn, SC | 864.408.9192
Fountain Foods Market in Fountain Inn is offering a variety of Thanksgiving foods for you to take home. You can get a fully cooked smokey turkey, green bean casserole, broccoli and rice casserole, corn souffle, pumpkin pie, blackberry pie, pumpkin roll, and so much more! Call and place an order, or visit the market and place an order with a staff member.

Stella’s Southern Bistro

684 Fairview Road, Simpsonville | 864.757.1212 They have sides and pies that are fully cooked such as collards, stuffing, mac ‘n cheese, and other delicious options, everything is usually available except for the turkey. Order deadline is November 20th, 2025.

Table 301 Catering

68 Global Drive, Greenville (pickup location) | 864.271.8431
You can order your entire Thanksgiving meal or pick out what you need from Table 301. All items come fully cooked—all you have to do is reheat. Preorder by 2 pm on Thursday, November 20th. Pickup at 68 Global Drive, Greenville on Wednesday, November 26th between 8 am – 5 pm or Thursday, November 27th between 9 am – 12 pm.

The Pantry by Emily’s Table

241 N Main St, Greenville | 864-766-9770
The Pantry has a take and bake menu featuring both gluten and dairy free. Order by November 24th at 9 am.

Bobby’s BBQ

1301 N. Main Street, Fountain Inn | 864.403.2379
Bobby’s has all the meats you could want for your Thanksgiving dinner! Preorders are open, and you can order whole turkey breast, whole briskets, port butts, and pans of your favorite side dishes.

Bucky’s BBQ

Greenville & Fountain Inn, SC
Bucky’s is a staple in the Greenville community, and its holiday menu does not disappoint. The holiday menu offers large pans of cornbread stuffing, green beans, mac and cheese, and sweet potato crunch. Their general menu has loads of meats and sides to purchase if you’re looking for additional items. You can find the holiday menu by clicking “order online” on their website, selecting the location, and then scrolling down. You can also call 864-329-0054 to order.

Swamp Rabbit Cafe & Grocery

205 Cedar Lane, Greenville | 864.255.3385
The Swamp Rabbit Cafe sells local Heritage and White Broad Breasted turkeys and ham every year, as well as delectable pies and sides. They have vegan and gluten-free options for sides as well! They almost always sell out so if you want something, order it quickly. Turkeys are not cooked.

Chef360

Chef360 catering is offering meals for 6-8 people that include turkey, mac & cheese, mashed potatoes, stuffing, greens, cornbread, and pumpkin pie. Add-ons are available. There are two Thanksgiving Meal options, one for $169 and one for $219. There’s also a menu where you can order by person if you don’t need to feed 6-8 people – these are $55 per person.

Fork & Plough

1629 East North Street, Greenville | 864.609.4249
Fork & Plough offers a full Thanksgiving meal for pickup complete with smoked turkey breast, and all the sides you could want. Place your order online for pickup.

Hub City Farmacy

Hub City Farmacy will make you a meal to feed either 3-4 people ($88) or 12-15 people ($265). You can also order family-size sides and a whole turkey.

Good to Go GVL

209 W Antrim Drive, Greenville I 864.283.0347
You can order a smoked turkey breast, beef tenderloin, pork loin, desserts, and sides from Good to Go GVL. Everything is a la carte.

Henry’s Smokehouse

Greenville, SC | 864.232.7774
NOTE: 2025 Information is not available yet.They traditionally offer smoked fried turkeys, smoked turkeys, spiral hams, and lots of sides. They’ll start taking orders on October 1st. Call for pricing and details.

White Wine and Butter

2299 East Gap Creek Road, Greer | 864.417.4106

NOTE: 2025 Information is not available yet. If you are looking for hot food to pick up, then White Wine and Butter has you covered. They offer cajun fried turkey, turkey breast, and prime rib as their protein options, with signature sides like smoked gouda mac n cheese, cornbread dressing, crab stuffed mushrooms, and other sides.

Firebirds Wood Fired Grill

NOTE: 2025 Information is not available yet. You can order your entire Thanksgiving Feast from Firebirds, with roasted brown turkey, honey-glazed ham, sides, and desserts. The package feeds 6 and is $160.

Moe’s Original BBQ

Greenville, SC | 864.520.1740
The holiday menu at Moe’s Original BBQ offers traditional smoked turkey, spiral sliced ham, and various sides. Call to order.

Do you know of a restaurant offering Thanksgiving meals? Let us know in the comments!

Heading down to Columbia for the holiday? Don’t miss our list of restaurants for Thanksgiving dinner in Columbia!

Holiday Getaway!: Places to Stay With Holiday Magic This Season

✨Looking for cozy cabins for Christmas or the perfect family Christmas getaway near you? Whether you’re dreaming of a weekend escape or a longer holiday getaway, we’ve rounded up some of the best getaway holiday stays and cabin rentals for Christmas in the beautiful mountains of North Carolina, South Carolina, and even Florida!

Try a vacation cabin rental for Christmas this year, enjoy twinkling lights, and all the Christmas trees. Snag a cup of hot cocoa, stroll through Christmas lights, or visit a holiday market. There’s still time left to plan a holiday getaway, and celebrate the best time of the year! We’ve done the research and included some favorite Christmas vacation ideas to help you get into the holiday spirit with your favorite people.

As a STAY 22 Affiliate, Kidding Around earns when you book through these links.

Stay on a Christmas Tree Farm!

It doesn’t get much more festive than vacationing on a Christmas Tree Farm! Check out these cabins on Christmas Tree Farms in North Carolina that are available for your holiday getaway!

Christmas Tree Farm Cabin, Maggie Valley

If you are looking for a peaceful kind of holiday escape, look at this cabin in the middle of a Christmas Tree farm in Waynesville, NC!!! With mountain views, Christmas Trees all around, and the gorgeous interior of the cabin we can’t think of a more beautiful spot to spend your holiday escape.

View of the front of a cabin with a Christmas tree in the foreground. Photo Credit: AirBnb — Christmas Tree Cabins, Photo Credit: VRBO

Christmas Tree Cabin

1 bed, 1 bath
Sleeps 4 guests
Handcrafted cabin in the middle of a Christmas Tree farm
View of trees, 80-year-old red barn and mountains
30 minutes to Asheville
Near Smoky Mountain National Park, Cataloochee skiing and elk watching

Book Christmas Tree Cabin on VRBO

Songbird Cabin on Cornett Deal Christmas Tree Farm

Secluded, with amazing views, this Songbird Cabin would be an amazing place to relax and escape the hustle and bustle of the season.

Songbird Cabin

2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom
Sleeps 4
Short Drive to Boone, NC and Blowing Rock, NC
Driving Distance of Appalachian Ski Mountain ski resort
Hiking trails on the property

Book Songbird Cabin on VRBO

Humbug Suite at Kingston Resorts in Myrtle Beach, SC

Get in the Christmas spirit with the whimsical Humbug Suite at Kingston Resorts in Myrtle Beach this year. They decked out a suite from top to bottom with everything Grinch-related – sheets, fluffy green blankets, playing cards, lights, pillows, and even a leaning Christmas tree. Book the suite from November 29th – January 3rd. You can also also the Christmas Village at the resort every Saturday from November 29th through December 24th.

Grinch suite at Kingston Resort — The decked out Humbug Suite

Christmas Town USA: McAdenville, NC

Learn all about why you should have this quaint town on your holiday bucket list, with our review of Christmas Town USA.

Bellmont Cottage

Stay close to the magic of Christmas Town USA in this rental – just minutes away from McAdenville, NC, better known as Christmas Town USA!

Belmont, NC vrbo — Belmont Cottage, Photo Credit: VRBO

Immerse your family in the Christmas Spirit at this rental just a few minutes away from the picture of holiday cheer McAdenville, North Carolina.

Bellmont Cottage

Short drive to McAdenville
2 bed, 2 bath
Sleeps 5
Recently renovated with new mattresses, furnishings, and appliances
Also near Charlotte and US National Whitewater Center

Book Bellmont Cottage on VRBO

North Carolina Arboretum’s Winter Lights

Row of arched lights with snowflakes hanging from the top — NC Arboretum Winter Holiday Lights Display

Log Cabin in Asheville, NC

The North Carolina Arboretum’s Winter Lights drive-thru show would be the icing on the cake during a holiday stay at this Asheville, North Carolina rental cabin.

Conveniently located in Asheville, the arboretum is just 2.7 miles away from this log cabin with a cozy wood-burning fireplace and jacuzzi!

Log Cabin

3 bed, 2 bath
Sleeps 8 guests
Less than 3 miles from the NC Arboretum
Jacuzzi
Wood-burning fireplace

Book Log Cabin on VRBO

Christmas Tree Cabin in Asheville, NC

We love that the owners named this cabin “Christmas Tree Cabin” and we love the views even more. This cabin is surrounded by mountain views and lots and lots of “Christmas” trees! Families will also love the game room with ping-pong and air hockey.

Christmas Tree Cabin

3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms
Sleeps 6
Game room
Amazing Views

Book Christmas Tree Cabin on VRBO

Dollywood Holiday Magic

Take It Easy Cabin Rental Near Dollywood

If celebrating the holidays with a national treasure is more your style – this rental near Dollywood has everything you need to relax after spending the day at the park, including a hot tub!

A large porch swing and a hot tub on a covered porch of a wooden cabin. Photo Credit: AirBnb — Take It Easy, Photo Credit: VRBO

Take It Easy

1 bed, 1 bath
Sleep 4 guests
Hot tub
Covered, screened deck with swing
Located between Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, TN.

Book Take It Easy on VRBO

Curious about what Dollywood offers guests in the way of holiday magic and winter activities? You can read all about what the popular park whips up for guests with Kristina’s review of Dollywood at Christmas.

Christmas Time in Dunwoody, GA

We were recently invited to experience Christmas time in the Atlanta suburb of Dunwoody and it’s become a favorite destination. You can enjoy shopping, dining, parks, and more here!

Cozy Cottage Home near Dunwoody

Coupled with a cozy cottage to relax and enjoy, Dunwoody makes an excellent vacation stay!

Dunwoody Cottage VRBO Photo Credit — Charming Cottage, Photo Credit: VRBO

Charming Cottage

2 bed, 2 bath
Sleeps 4
Located within walking distance of Perimeter Mall
Allows children of all ages and 1 dog with a fee

Book Charming Cottage on VRBO

Holiday Magic at Disney

There’s only one other mythical being more magical during the holidays than Saint Nick, and that’s Mickey Mouse!

Wyndham Bonnet Creek VRBO rentals

If you have your sights set on spending the holidays within the Magic Kingdom, there are amazing Disney area rentals that get you there for less, like this VRBO rental on Disney property!

You can have an entire condo that sleeps eight guests to yourselves, within the Magic Kingdom property, and spend less per night than a WDW resort room.

Wyndham Bonnet Creek

2 Bedrooms, 2 bathrooms
Sleeps 8
Located on Disney Property at Wyndham Bonnet Creek Resort
Private balcony
On-site restaurant
Full kitchen
Transportation to and from Disney parks

Book Wyndham Bonnet Creek on VRBO

A Legoland Christmas

You can spend Christmas at Legoland in Winterhaven, Florida like my family and I did recently.

A collage of two photos; one with a child next to a large LEGO Santa, the other of a LEGO countdown to Christmas.

At about an hour from Orlando, you should stay local to the park if your focus is on the LEGO experience.

This rental house near Legoland is convenient for fun and it also offers guests the use of a lake and Kayaks!

A sectional in a modern living space. Photo Credit: AirBnb — Lakefront Tranquility, Photo Credit: VRBO

Lakefront Tranquility

2 bed, 2 bath
Sleeps 4 guests
Lakefront with dock
Kayaks available
Near Legoland

Book Lakefront Tranquility on VRBO

If you’ve been searching for “family Christmas getaways near me” we hope this article gave you some family-friendly, festive ideas.

Looking for more vacation ideas where you can cozy up with some hot chocolate and enjoy a winter-wonderland? Here are 6 winter vacation rentals with features like hot tubs, fireplaces, game rooms, and fabulous views.

Spend the holidays on a lovely getaway with family and lots of love!

A Day in Brevard, North Carolina: Things to Do, Places to Eat, and Outdoor Adventures

Just a 50-mile drive from Greenville is the little town of Brevard, North Carolina. With unique little shops, great restaurant options, and a scenic drive, this destination just might find itself penciled onto your day trip adventure list. Spend the day in Brevard exploring this mountain town with small-town vibes, and maybe even catch a glimpse of one of Brevard’s most prized residences, a white squirrel!

Spend the day in Brevard, North Carolina.

Fall foliage is not the only incentive to make the trek from the Upstate to Brevard. The beauty of the mountains envelops you long before you reach the actual town. The scenic drive up Highway 25 is dotted with produce stands, complete with pumpkins, and antique shops. Highway 64 through Hendersonville will carry you straight into downtown Brevard, NC. Though a bit longer, this route is preferable to Highway 276 for me. I am not a fan of corkscrew-shaped roads.

Kidding Around WNC: things to do in Western North Carolina towns

If you’re planning a trip to WNC, use our handy guide to find things to do, places to visit, and where to eat on your WNC adventure!

Shopping on Main Street in Brevard

Once in Breva rd, North Carolina, there’s no shortage of things to do. Main Street is lined with eccentric shops and unique eateries. There are no parking garages, but it’s rarely an issue. You are allowed to park in the lots of just about every public building and business. You cannot imagine how convenient that is until you are looking for a place to put your car.

If you are in need of some new outdoor gear but want a more local experience, then DD. Bullwinkle’s Outdoors will help you find what you need. They have backpacks, shoes, clothes, and survival gear to help you brace for your next adventure, Pisgah National Forest!

This mini-Gatlinburg is a haven for anyone who loves collectibles, trinkets, and other items that cannot be found at your local mall. Brevard is home to the original O.P. Taylo r’s store. Your kiddos will love the two-tier toy wonderland.

I can’t write an article about Brevard without mentioning the absolute coolest store on the block. It’s called The Children’s Center. TCC is a not-for-profit clothing store that supports children in Transylvania County who are at risk of being abused and/or neglected. This store is THE place to shop for the little members of your family. It is a special home for name-brand clothes and handmade gifts for less.

Where to Eat in Brevard

Whether eating breakfast, lunch, or dinner, you’re certain to find something in Brevard, North Carolina to please the pickiest palate (bet you can’t say that five times fast). Our crew likes to eat a big breakfast before leaving on a day trip, so we usually snack for lunch and enjoy an early dinner. This brings me to my next recommendation.

Have you heard of The Square Root restaurant? I immediately fell in love with this back alley surprise. In addition to the atmosphere, they have one of the most realistic children’s menus I’ve seen. Your kiddos can enjoy their PB&J or corn dog while the adults at the table savor a more upscale entrée. My personal favorite was the juicy cheeseburger with a pickle and a side of fries. Don’t forget to walk across the alley to Downtown Chocolates for dessert!

Maybe you need a pick me up after all that walking. Then, head to Cup and Saucer for a nice espresso and a sweet treat. They sell fresh baked goods, but also specialty coffee, beer, and wine.

You will also find one of the several breweries in Brevard, so there is no shortage of beer if you are looking for it. Ecusta Brewing Company is pretty well known in the area, and they are pretty close to Pisgah Forest, making it a nice stop after a day outdoors. Brevard Brewing Company is just down the street from O.P. Taylor’s if you’re looking for something within walking distance of the downtown area.

Intersection of Main Street and Broad Street in Brevard, North Carolina

Outdoor Things to Do in Brevard, NC

In addition to all the food and merchandise, Brevard has historical sites you do not want to miss and practically sits in the backyard of Gorges State Park. The park offers weekly activities as well as monthly special events. You can visit their website for a full listing of family-friendly fun.

You can also travel a quick drive out of town to Looking Glass Falls, one of the most accessible waterfalls near Greenville. There are several waterfalls near Brevard (the Land of Waterfalls is close by in Cashiers), so you won’t have to travel far for an epic adventure after your day Downtown.

One of our favorite adventures in Brevard is riding lazily down the river with Brevard Tubing. You get to ride in a hot pink tube down the Broad River, while being lazy and enjoying the beautiful scenery, sounds like a plan!

Tubing on the French Broad River — Look at how relaxing this is

If you want to continue your outdoor adventure, we highly recommend the natural waterslide, Sliding Rock. Here, you can slide down a natural rock formation and plunge into the chilly mountain water below. We promise, your kids will want to do it over and over again, and you will too.

One of the best outdoor places in Brevard is at Dupont State Recreational Forest. Here you can hike, mountain bike, and even swim. There are multiple waterfalls, and did you know that they even filmed portions of the Hunger Games at Triple Falls?

If you are heading to Brevard in October, be sure to check out Pumpkin Fest at Silvermont Park! Held annually by The Friends of Silvermont, the weekend festival offers a great adventure for little kids to enjoy the Halloween season while hunting for white squirrels through a paved trailed lit up by carved pumpkins. There is also live music, food trucks, and money raised goes to help restore the Silvermont mansion and park.

Grab your binoculars and go on a sight hunt of Brevard’s most prized locals, white squirrels. There is a large population of white squirrels in Brevard, and you will see everything from stores named after them, to souvenirs. Hopefully, you’ll catch a glimpse, because they are super cute! There are larger populations in Silvermont, around Brevard College, and Franklin Park, so pack a picnic.

Now that I have piqued your interest, it’s time for you and your family to plan your next road trip.

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Hands On! Children’s Museum in Hendersonville, NC is the Perfect Day Trip

See Model Trains for FREE at Apple Valley Model RR Club in Hendersonville, NC

Fall Play & Pumpkins at Linda’s Plants & Shrubs: Hendersonville, NC

Pick apples and grapes, explore a corn maze, and eat pumpkin donuts at Stepp’s Orchard in Hendersonville, NC

About the Catawba Science Center

Exhibits at the Catawba Science Center

Hands-On Construction

Gross Labs

Energy Avenue

Velo-City

Naturalist Center

Little Kids Treehouse

Marine Science and Aquarium at the Land to Sea exhibits

The Planetarium and Outdoor Courtyard

Visiting the Catawba Science Center

Day Trip

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Hands On! Children’s Museum in Hendersonville, NC is the Perfect Day Trip

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