Author Archive

Your Little Astronomer Will Love Friday Starry Nights at the Roper Mountain Planetarium in Greenville, SC

There was an audible gasp from most of the crowd as they stepped into the new T.C. Hopper Planetarium at Roper Mountain Science Center for the 6:00 pm showing of Starry Nights in Greenville, SC. After going through a nearly year-long $1 million-plus renovation in 2017, the Roper Mountain planetarium is one of Greenville’s most amazing gems, and it is truly stunning.

The RMSC is part of the Greenville County School System and they strive to engage kids of all ages in the sciences in ways that are imaginative, fun, and memorable. RMSC is truly one of the coolest things you can do here and Starry Nights at the only planetarium in Greenville, SC is a favorite activity of not only us here at Kidding Around but lots of Greenville families.

Friday Starry Nights at Roper Mountain Science Center

Being somewhat of a science and space nerd, I could not wait for Starry Nights to open. I had only ever been to a planetarium in elementary school and I barely remembered it. However, I’ve always been fascinated with space and was convinced my calling was an astronaut after my mom took me to the Kennedy Space Center in Florida once. I got to go there with my own kids last summer and it was incredible. I was resurrecting those astronaut dreams again in my head.

While working for NASA didn’t pan out, enjoying the new RMSC planetarium is a close enough second place. Being the only planetarium near Greenville, SC makes it a special place to visit while in the Upstate.

The lobby of the planetarium consists of interactive video games, space memorabilia from movies and Disney, and building block-type games where kids can pass the time while they wait to get into the show.

There are three shows currently playing at the planetarium on Friday nights, at 4:30 pm, 6:00 pm and 7:30 pm, the earlier one being geared more toward young kids. Each show starts with a 15-minute pre-show that includes what the night sky looks like that night and how to pick out constellations. The way the show is presented makes you feel like you are lying on your back outside just checking out the night sky, which is certainly aided by the reclining seats.

The shows I attended ended with a life-like ride on a roller-coaster on Mars. I love roller coasters so this was a treat.

Cool Facts about the Hooper Planetarium

So what does it feel like inside the planetarium? My first emotion was relaxation. Reclining on the seats and gazing at the stars, the planets, and Earth evokes almost a sense of smallness in the universe if that makes sense. The sheer magnitude of the screen and the state-of-the-art room is astounding. It really makes you feel like you are a part of a space flight or the Mars roller-coaster, or on a blanket outside at night.

The planetarium was significantly renovated in 2017 and is so well done. The dome is a 360-degree immersion dome with 4K projection and incredible surround sound. It’s the only planetarium in the country to have what is called the Spitz 4K IQ projection system, which basically means it is super awesome and the experience is nearly unmatched anywhere else in the country.

Before the show, the emcee gives the audience a little show-and-tell of the light system, the 360 immersion sensation and elicits tons of “oohs” and “ahhhs” for a good ten minutes. Totally worth it.

The Daniel Observatory at Roper Mountain Science Center

The Daniel Observatory houses the 23″ refractor telescope, only the eighth of its kind in the country. It is big, like really big. Whatever you are thinking, think bigger. To look through the telescope, you have to climb a ladder.

Since I’m such a nerd, I was instantly wowed by this ginormous telescope. The RMSC staff helps visitors to look through the telescope and tells them what they are seeing. They also have lots of gadgets and big screens to help provide more information about the galaxy and stars and all the cool things going on inside the observatory.

Buying Tickets for Friday Starry Nights

Friday Starry Nights is offered every Friday at the RMSC with three shows – one at 4:30 pm, 6 pm, and the final at 7:30 pm. They are about an hour long and the 4:30 pm and 6:00 pm shows are certainly geared more towards younger children ages four and up. I brought my six-year-old and she loved it. There were kids there much younger and others a lot older.

RMSC does not recommend bringing kids under age 3. If your child (or you) needs to leave for some reason, the staff is very accommodating and attentive and will light up the emergency lights on the stairs so you can get out easily.

Tickets must be purchased online and sell out fast. Tickets are $8 for adults and $7 for kids ages 3-12, military and senior citizens. RMSC members and children three and under are free.

Roper Mountain Science Center
402 Roper Mountain Rd, Greenville
864.355.8900

Have you been to see Starry Nights yet?

Roper Mountain Science Center, Greenville, SC

There’s more to love about RMSC!

See more about Roper Mountain Science Center in our review.

17 Inexpensive Date Ideas for Greenville, SC

Are you looking for inexpensive date night ideas or cheap dates near Greenville, SC? Don’t worry. You don’t have to spend a ton of money to enjoy time with your loved one. Here’s a list of inexpensive dates in Greenville.

Free and Cheap Date Ideas in Greenville, SC

Dates nights can get pricey with dinner, a babysitter, and entertainment. But they don’t have to be expensive or fancy. You can still keep grown-up date night high on your priority list with creative and inexpensive date ideas.

Date Ideas That Won’t Break the Bank

There are tons of things couples can do around the area that won’t wipe out the month’s entertainment budget. Here are great opportunities to spend quality time with your loved one and even try something new together.

Falls Park

Falls Park is the gem of downtown Greenville. A walk around this beautiful park, over Liberty Bridge, and along the river is romantic and a perfect opportunity to talk, hold hands, and your loved one’s company. Grab an ice cream or coffee from Spill the Beans near the bridge, or pack a picnic and enjoy the view.

Bike Ride on the Swamp Rabbit Trail

Rent bikes or bring your own for a ride along the Swamp Rabbit Trail. Stop at the Swamp Rabbit Cafe for incredible baked goods and coffee or hot chocolate.

Take a Hike

No, not that kind of hike. This is supposed to be a fun day with your partner. The Greenville and Spartanburg areas have numerous natural parks with dozens of hiking trails ranging from easy to intermediate to difficult. Pack a lunch and make your escape.

For even more hikes, see our complete guide to hikes near Greenville, SC,.

Or, check out Hatcher Gardens in Spartanburg. It’s totally free to visit and a fabulous place for couples to walk and chat.

Dance Together

Salsa at Sunset is available at Camperdown Plaza over the summer and features a live band and dance lessons, all for free. The Foundry hosts line dancing every week with a minimal cover charge.

Take a Class at the Library

The Greenville Library System has so many cool classes for adults that include everything from art to knitting to music trivia to games. And it’s all free.

See a Planetarium Show

Tickets to Friday’s Starry Nights at the Roper Mountain Science Center are just $8 per adult (or free if you’re a member!). This is a lot of fun to do together. Be sure to see the night sky at the Observatory afterwards.

Try a Trivia Night

Many local breweries and entertainment facilities, like New Realm Brewing, Vaughn’s Food Hall, and Group Therapy, host weekly trivia nights. They usually don’t have a charge, and you can buy a drink to keep costs down instead of a full dinner.

Take a Stroll Downtown

If hiking isn’t your thing, consider a walk with more urban scenery. Downtown Greer is a fabulous place to take a walk, do a little window shopping, visit the park, or grab a coffee.

Volunteer Together

Helping others together is not only a beautiful example to children but also a wonderful bonding experience and a way to remember your own blessings. Try Greer Soup Kitchen or any of the places on this list of places to volunteer in Greenville.

Have a Lunch Date

GVLtoday put together this great list of places to have lunch under $10 in Greenville. Plus, lunch is usually cheaper than dinner at most places.

See the Swamp Rabbits or Greenville Drive in Action

Watching a live sporting event is a fun way to spend quality time together. Tickets to see the Greenville Swamp Rabbits play hockey or the Greenville Drive play baseball are pretty cheap and a great way to do date night.

Coffee/Hot Chocolate Date

Instead of going out for a pricey dinner, consider taking a couple of hours in the morning to relax with a great cup of coffee. Here is a list of some great coffee shops in the area (or go with hot chocolate if that’s your thing). A breakfast date is also a cheaper alternative to a dinner night out.

Try Tandem Creperie in Travelers Rest for the best crepes ever. Swamp Rabbit Cafe and Scandi Tiny Coffee Shop are two other great places to check out.

See a Sunrise

The sunrises at Pretty Place at YMCA Camp Greenville are incredible. Get up early and go see for yourself. Bring hot coffee and muffins to make it extra special. Be sure to check the chapel’s calendar before you go to make sure there aren’t any private events.

Get a Drink

Grabbing a great drink with your significant other in a cozy setting can be reminiscent of those first months of dating. Southern Growl in Greer has an extensive craft beer list and incredible food.

First Fridays

The art scene is vibrant at First Friday events in downtown Greenville, the Village of West Greenville, and Taylors Mill. Patrons can roam from gallery to gallery for free and enjoy the art.

Check Out Some Art

The Greenville County Museum of Art is always free. They are open Wednesday – Sunday and also have special events that are often free so check out their website before heading out.

Try Discount Ticket Sites

Groupon and Living Social are great places to find inexpensive tickets to area attractions. There are tons of restaurants, events, and activities available for discounted prices that make for fun and inexpensive date nights.

Looking for more fun date night ideas? Here’s your ultimate guide to date night in Greenville, SC!

RELATED ARTICLE: 10 Romantic Dates in Greenville

Bored on Sundays? Here are 20+ Things You Can Do to Have Fun!

Need ideas for fun things to do on a Sunday? While Sundays with kids may not feel like classic rest and relaxation, they are perfect for slowing down, making memories, and enjoying time together. To help, we’ve put together two lists of 20+ Sunday activities, one for indoors and one for outdoors. Pick a few favorites, make the most of the day, and soak up that quality time with your kids before Monday rolls around!

Searching for something fun to do in Greenville, SC? Check out our list of 50+ Amazing Things to do in Greenville, SC to start the fun!

Things to Do on a Sunday: Outdoor Activities

Swamp Rabbit Cafe

Swamp Rabbit Cafe is great for a relaxed Sunday. Grab a coffee, scone, and delicious stecca, and then hang out in the enclosed play area for a couple of hours while the little ones play. I’ve met some great parents here and love the relaxing feel (and good food) of the cafe. Stay for lunch and indulge in their wood-fired pizza.

205 Cedar Lane, Greenville
Sunday hours: 7:30 am – 7 pm

Hiking

Put together a lunch, snacks, and drinks on Saturday night, and head out to your favorite trail on Sunday morning. Lake Conestee is great for small kids and offers paved trails. Another option is to head to Yellow Branch Falls in Walhalla for an incredible three-mile hike to a gorgeous waterfall. Or go to Table Rock State Park and do the two-mile Carrick Creek Trail for a scenic hike. There are so many trails within a couple of hours of Greenville that cater to all skill levels.

Here’s a great Hiking Guide we’ve put together to help you.

Greenville Drive

A baseball game at Fluor is a great Sunday family activity during the summer. They have an onsite playground, plus a big, grassy area for kids to run around in while you watch all the action on the field. Sunday games are often in the late afternoon, and kids can run the bases after the game. You’ll also find some excellent events throughout the year at Fluor Field that tend to run the entire weekend, Sunday included.

Fluor Field, 945 South Main Street, Greenville

WNC Nature Center

Located right outside of Asheville and a little over an hour from Greenville, the WNC Nature Center is a great option for Sunday entertainment. The Nature Center is like a zoo except I’d argue even cooler. They have several playgrounds inside the campus, plus all of their animals are local to the area so it’s educational and interesting. Learn more in our review of the Western North Carolina Nature Center.

75 Gashes Creek Road, Asheville, NC
Sunday hours: 10 am – 3:30 pm (park closes at 4:30 pm)

Playground at the Western North Carolina Nature Center in Asheville, North Carolina

Go to a Family-Friendly Brewery

There are lots of other family-friendly breweries in our area that are open on Sunday and are great places to relax with a brew and good food while the kids play.

Visit a Playground

Greenville is dotted with playgrounds all over the place, so it’s not too hard to find a good one to take the family to for some outdoor fun. Here is our list of our readers’ 5 Favorite Playgrounds and here’s another list of 9 More Awesome Parks & Playgrounds. You can also see our Playground and Parks Reviews page.

Bike Riding

The Swamp Rabbit Trail is one of the best places to ride a bike in the whole state. You can pick it up at several points in Greenville, and it’s a fun activity to do as a family, especially if you love being active together. You can also check out the Doodle Trail in Easley for a fun-filled bike riding day!

Here are some other great trails to ride your bike.

Biking on the Swamp Rabbit Trail in Greenville, South Carolina — Prisma Health Swamp Rabbit Trail, Greenville, SC

Flying Rabbit Adventures

Looking for a thrill? Flying Rabbit Adventures, located off of Laurens Road in Greenville, has a ropes course that will challenge your entire family. They are open on Sundays, so get outside and enjoy the adventure.

821 Laurens Road, Greenville, SC
Sunday hours: 10 am – 4 pm

Flying Rabbit Adventures is awesome! Read our review of this ropes course near downtown Greenville, SC.

Things to do on a Sunday: Indoor Activities

The Children’s Museum of the Upstate

Lazy Sundays are a particularly good reason to grab a TC MU membership. It’s so easy to head over and spend hours among all the exhibits and interactive games. A boring Sunday could be a good excuse just to go check out one of the most popular attractions for families in Greenville. If you’re in Spartanburg, that location is also open on Sundays, and free if you’re a TCMU member.

300 College Street, Greenville
130 Magnolia Street, Spartanburg
Sunday hours: 11 am – 5 pm

projectROCK Easley

This huge indoor rock-climbing facility in Easley is a lot of fun! They have the nation’s highest indoor climbing wall at 84 feet, plus a great little room for smaller kids. You can have hours of entertainment here. You can also find some additional indoor and outdoor rock climbing gyms near Greenville in our handy guide.

2121 Farrs Bridge Road, Easley
Sunday hours: Noon-8 pm

Climbing walls at projectROCK in Easley, South Carolina — projectROCK Easley

The Big E

An indoor playland with laser tag, a movie theater, an arcade, and bowling are all part of The Big E in Gaffney. It’s a bit of a hike from Greenville but worth it to spend lots of time together with friends and family.

Exit 90 off I-85 at the Gaffney Premium Outlet Mall
Sunday hours: 12 pm – 8 pm

Frankie’s Fun Park

Enjoy mini golf, go-karts, an indoor playground, laser tag, a batting cage, an arcade, bumper boats, and more at Frankie’s Fun Park.

45 Park Woodruff Drive, Greenville
Sunday hours: Noon – 10 pm

Hughes Main Library or the Five Forks Library

Most Greenville Library branches are closed on Sundays. However, the Hughes Main Library in downtown Greenville and the Five Forks branch in Simpsonville are both open on Sunday afternoons, so grab the kids and your favorite book for an afternoon in the kids’ sections.

Hughes Library: 25 Heritage Green Place, Greenville
Five Forks Library: 104 Sunnydale Drive, Simpsonville
Sunday hours: 2 pm – 6 pm

Five Forks Greenville library at Five Forks in South Carolina

Barnes and Noble

Take your kids to Barnes & Noble for the free train table and LEGO table. These can keep most kids entertained for a good while. And it’s free. You can also spend a few dollars and grab a coffee at the in-house Starbucks.

735 Haywood Road, Greenville
1125 Woodruff Road Suite 1810, Greenville
Sunday hours: 10 am – 7 pm

Upcountry History Museum

With awesome rotating and permanent exhibits about the history of the Upstate, the Upcountry History Museum is a great option for indoor fun on Sundays.

540 Buncombe Street, Greenville
Sunday hours: 1 pm – 5 pm

Greenville County Museum of Art

Most Sundays from 2 pm – 3 pm, the Greenville County Museum of Art has a program called Sundays at 2 that features music or family art adventures. And it’s free! Check beforehand to make sure you don’t have to register ahead of time.

420 College Street, Greenville
Sunday hours: 1 pm – 5 pm

Bounce Houses and Trampoline Parks

Spending a rainy or cold day indoors on a Sunday is a good idea, even better when it’s someplace where kids can get out lots of energy. Trampoline Parks Big Air, Urban Air, and Sky Zone are all open on Sundays. Kangaroo Jax and The Pavilion are both open on Sundays for indoor fun.

Carousel at Kangaroo Jax in Greenville, South Carolina

Spare Time

The indoor entertainment facility Spare Time hosts a state-of-the-art bowling alley, arcade, birthday parties, and an escape room. It’s an indoor playground for any age.

822 Congaree Road, Greenville
Sunday hours: 10 am – 11 pm

Mad Smash Rage Room

Get out stress by taking a bat and smashing lots of things in an enclosed (and safe) space at Mad Smash in Taylors Mill. Kids ages 8+ can participate!

250 Mills Street, Taylors
Open Sundays by appointment

Roller and Ice Skating Rinks

There are a handful of roller skating and ice skating rinks in Greenville, which are great options for spending time indoors on a Sunday. During the winter, you can ice skate outdoors in downtown Greenville right near the Peace Center. See individual sites for Sunday hours.

Golden Lanes & Golden Skate, 108 Balcome Boulevard, Simpsonville
The Pavilion, 400 Scottswood Road, Greer
Roller Sports Skating Rink, 328 W. Main Street, Taylors
Ice on Main, Village Green, Greenville (winter only)

Swamp Rabbits

Head to the Bon Secours Wellness Arena and watch our city’s minor league ice hockey team, the Greenville Swamp Rabbits, play on a Sunday. They usually have at least one Sunday home game a month.

Bass Pro Shops

Why is an outdoor store on this list? Because Bass Pro Shops has pretty neat animals on display that kids love. They also have a small aquarium with lots of cool fish in the back of the store. And Santa is there most Sundays during the holiday season. And it’s free. Be sure to taste-test the fudge (and then buy a few pounds because it’s amazing).

1025 Woodruff Road, Suite H101, Greenville
Sunday hours: 10 am – 7 pm

Haywood Mall

Besides the obvious shopping, Haywood Mall has a small indoor play area perfect for smaller kids.

700 Haywood Road, Greenville
Sunday hours: Noon – 6 pm

What’s your go-to family destination on a lazy Sunday afternoon?

You can also find events throughout the Upstate in the Kidding Around Events Calendar! You’ll find educational events, festivals, free events, and more.

20 Top Ideas for Great Dates With Your Kid

Looking for some fun mom and son dates near Greenville, SC or daddy daughter dates near Greenville, SC? Whether you’re looking for a memorable outing or quality one-on-one time with your child, writer Kristina Hernandez shares 20 great date ideas. From splurge-worthy adventures to free activities, these ideas are perfect for any family and situation. Plus, we’ve included some tips to help you make the most of your special time together!

Looking for even more fun activities to enjoy in Greenville? Be sure to check out our ultimate guide to things to do in Greenville for even more great ideas for family-friendly adventures!

As soon as my daughter was old enough, as in she could maybe hold a slice of pizza and take a tentative bite, I took her on a date to my favorite pizza joint. While conversation with a three-year-old was limited, it was the time we spent together that made the difference.

As she has grown up and the concept of a “date” is slowly beginning to form in her little mind, she loves it when it’s just her and I out together or her and dad. Nurturing the child-parent relationship with dates is one of my favorite ways to spend time together – and here are some ideas to make it one of your favorite times too.

Tips for Date Time With Your Kid

Here are a few tips for maximizing this special time with your child from Kidding Around Owner Bethany Winston.

Don’t make the date a reward for good behavior.
Don’t let this treat be one that has to be earned. Make it a treat that they get just because you love them and want to spend time with them. The kid who constantly presses your buttons is likely the kid who also really needs your attention.
Put your cell phone on “Do Not Disturb”
If nothing else, it will send a clear message to your child that they are more important than your business and Facebook.
Do something inexpensive and simple.
Remember this outing is about taking time to just enjoy your child. Big, glitzy programs can distract you from being able to really talk and get to know each other. When the outing is inexpensive and simple, it’s also easier to repeat frequently.
Don’t force your kids to talk.
Sometimes it’s good just to take a break from trying to find out information from your child, and instead give them space to talk about what they want to talk about. You never know where that might lead.
Cater to your kid’s preferences.
Try to let your child do something that they enjoy rather than having to cater to your tastes. This might mean eating at a place that wouldn’t be your top choice or spending a half hour watching your kid climb a playground.
Try to incorporate moments like these into everyday life.

Places to Have a Date With Your Kid

Whether you’re planning a mother-daughter/son or daddy-daughter/son date, they can be super simple. But if you’re looking to get out and about, here are some great ideas for places you can bring your child throughout Greenville, SC!

Ice Cream Date

Because who doesn’t love going on an ice cream date? It’s inexpensive, doesn’t require a smaller child to sit still for a long time, and it can involve chocolate.

Best ice cream shops in Greenville and Spartanburg, SC.

Best Ice Cream Shops in Greenville, SC!

Trampoline parks

Get in a workout and have fun at our local trampoline parks Big Air and Sky Zone Greenville.

Bike Ride

This can either involve an actual bike with an older kid or the parent walking next to their child riding a bike. Go around the block a couple of times and talk with your child or go on the Swamp Rabbit Trail (or other places) together. It’s exercise and bonding.

Pedicab Ride

Take a ride on a pedicab through Greenville with Greenville Bike Taxi. We did it during the holidays but you can do it any time of the year!

The Greenville Bike Taxi is so much fun, your kids will LOVE exploring the city!

Fly through the air

Go zip lining and climb through rope courses in the air at Flying Rabbit Adventures. This would be awesome for older kids who you can do the bigger course together with.

Flying Rabbit Adventure aerial ropes course in Greenville, SC.

The Flying Rabbit Adventures ropes course is an epic kid date night!

Go see a play

I’ve taken my daughter to the South Carolina Children’s Theatre to see shows and it’s really fun. I used to go to Broadway shows in New York City with my mother when I was old enough and while Greenville isn’t NYC, it certainly has a wonderful theater community with excellent plays. And the Greenville Theatre has wonderful age-appropriate shows throughout the year.

Get Crafting

Head to ReCraft for a fun time together making new things out of old things!

ReCraft Greenville is a great place to craft with your kids!

Recraft Creative ReUse Center in Greenville, South Carolina

Go to Home Depot Free Workshop Days

Home Depot has a kid workshop day every first Saturday of the month and we’ve been going for years. It’s free and you get to build something together and paint it and get all messy. It’s a blast.

Shop for Cheap Books

If your kid loves to read, make a date out of any of our area’s used book sales or the massive Book Warehouse Outlet sales.

Story Time

Libraries are worlds of imagination and creativity. I am an avid reader and my kids love books so taking one to story time is a treat. Libraries also have lots of free craft activities! There are also several storytime events throughout Greenville that your kids will enjoy.

Museums

The Upcountry History Museum always has awesome exhibits and I’ve taken my daughter to them for dates before and we always really enjoy it. They are interactive and give parents the chance to read quickly and look smart for their kids (hoping that’s not just me). The Children’s Museum of the Upstate also has tons of great workshops and exhibits.

You can visit the Greenville County Museum of Art absolutely free. They also have great events and activities on their calendar and many are free.

Roper Mountain Science Center Starry Nights

The Roper Mountain Science Center has a planetarium night every Friday evening about the stars and constellations and you get to lean back and look up at the starry night sky. It’s really neat and fun for both kids and adults.

Roper Mountain Science Center has so much to do, including Starry Nights on Fridays, that make a perfect daddy/daughter, mother/son date night!

Go shopping

I really don’t enjoy shopping but I do enjoy shopping for my kids and letting them pick out clothes or a book or a toy. I’m a big fan of some of the children’s consignment stores in the area and thrift stores like Miracle Hill and Goodwill. It’s fun to take your child and pick out a book for 50 cents or a dress for a couple of dollars.

Find a new picnic spot

Greenville has so many special little outdoor nooks that are perfect for picnics. Pack your meal or grab a to-go meal from one of your favorite restaurants. If you need tips, we’ve got you covered with ideas on how to plan the perfect picnic.

Coffee/Hot Chocolate

While your kids hopefully aren’t addicted to coffee like us crazy adults, there are tons of great little cafes in the Greenville area to grab a caffeinated beverage for you, a hot chocolate for your kid, and maybe a scone or two to share and relax while sitting on a comfy sofa or at a window overlooking Main Street.

Go Indoor Rock Climbing

This is perfect for both kids and their parents who are adventurous or want to try something new. BlockHaven, Climb@BlueRidge, and projectROCK Easley are all great options for indoor rock climbing.

Places to go rock climbing near Greenville, SC, with indoor and outdoor options!

Take a hike

With miles and miles of trails in the area, you can’t really go wrong taking a hike together. Pack a lunch and have a great day together.

Pick-Your-Own-??

During the warmer months, there are lots of great options to pick strawberries, tulips, lavender, and apples, which provides opportunities for conversation and quality time together.

Get cooking or baking

Whether in your kitchen or taking a cooking class together like this bread-making class! Learning to make delicious food together is something that your child will carry for the rest of their lives.

Painting & Creating

The TReehouse Cafe and Art Studio is one of our favorite places thanks to its relaxing yet funky and artsy vibe. You can grab a meal together and paint or create art while there. Or you can go together to one of these painting/art places around town (just call ahead of time to be sure they have space).

TReehouse Cafe and Art Studio in Travelers Rest is a great kid’s date idea, with art projects, delicious food, and awesome decor!

Go to a game

For older kids, a great date night would be to see a baseball game at Fluor Field. Or see the Greenville hockey team, the Swamp Rabbits, play at The Well.

Farmers Markets

From downtown Greenville to Travelers Rest to Simpsonville, the summer months are filled with beautiful farmers markets where you can take a stroll with your kid through the stands, grab a scone, and pick out produce and fruit that they like. In the wintertime, hit up the Toasty Farmer Indoors Farmer Market. It’s a good opportunity for them to help choose nurturing food for you both to cook at home together.

Go mini-golfing or golfing together

Takeoff Mini-Golf next to Runway Park in Greenville is such a fun place to go mini-golfing. There’s also free mini-golfing at McPherson Park in Greenville or Sparkle City Putt Putt in Spartanburg. For older kids, Top Golf or 3’s Greenville Golf & Grill are great choices.

Run a race together

So many great races are happening this spring in the Greenville area. Some offer child races but if your kid is old enough, run a short race with them (or if they are smaller, some races allow you to run with a jogger).

Enjoy the Outdoors

Greenville is situated in such a perfect place – it’s not far from the mountains or beautiful, pristine lakes. Go kayaking or paddleboarding on a date with your kid in either a tandem kayak if they are smaller or two kayaks. Go hiking – the trails here are really fun and there are hikes for people of all ages. Or go fishing together!

Go old school

Take your child to the Upstate Pinball & Arcade Museum where you can play all kinds of old-school games together.

The Upstate Pinball & Arcade Museum has $10 all-day gameplay!

Do you have a great idea for a date with your kid to add to our list?

Have a Blast on These Southeast Spring Break Trips for Families

Are you looking for fun Spring Break Trips for Families? Planning your family’s Spring Break trips from Greenville, South Carolina? All places listed are within driving distance and those that we here at Kidding Around have been to personally. These weekend getaways from Greenville are perfect for making memories with your family this spring.

Spring break trips for families in the Southeast

If we missed your favorite place, add it in the comments!

Want to stay really close to home? With gas costs going up, a road trip might not be on the menu this spring break. If that sounds like you, you can still get away. Try this list of Spring Break trips within 90 minutes for Greenville, SC.

Spring Break Trips From Greenville: Southeastern USA

Browse by State

South Carolina

North Carolina

Georgia

Tennessee

Virginia

Florida

South Carolina Spring Break

Family friendly things to do in Hilton Head with kids.

Columbia, SC

The capital of South Carolina has so much to do, and it’s a great time to visit in spring because it gets super hot!

What to do: Visit the SC State Museum, EdVenture Children’s Museum, Riverbanks Zoo, the Columbia Museum of Art, and Congaree National Park.
Where to stay: This VRBO home in Columbia, SC is close to everything downtown!
Drive time: 1.5 hours

Fripp Island, SC

This is truly a special place that invites relaxation and time to recharge. It’s quiet and private and peaceful.

What to do: Biking, kayaking, restful excursions to the beach, and nature walks. If your rental includes resort amenities, you will also have access to public pools, an activity center with children’s programs, golf, and tennis courts. They do have a couple of heated pools if your kids want to brave the cold. Plus, Hunting Island State Park is right down the road.
Where to stay: VRBO has several condo options, like this Fripp Island Ocean Front Condo.
Drive time: 4 hours

Hilton Head Island / Port Royal/ Beaufort, SC

While the beach is a good option for family fun in the Lowcountry, there is so much more to do than play in the sand. I’ve taken my kids and whole family to this area for the last several years and we always have an awesome time.

What to do: Dolphin and kazoo factory tours, kayak or stand-up paddleboard trips, free aquarium, mini-golf, bike rides, pirate ship adventures, world class beaches. Here’s a list of HHI activities and here’s a list for things to do in the Port Royal/Beaufort.
Where to stay: We’ve loved this VRBO: Hilton Head
Drive time: 4 hours

Myrtle Beach, SC

While swimming in the ocean isn’t ideal in April, you can still enjoy the outdoors plus some special family activities.

What to do: Beach, Brookgreen Gardens, Vereen Memorial Gardens, dinner shows, the big Ferris wheel, and state parks. Here’s our list of things to do in Myrtle Beach.
Where to stay: Hampton Inn and Suites Oceanfront Resort or the Ellie Beach Resort (heated indoor pools; affordable)
Drive time: 4 hours

Jump back to top to browse by state.

North Carolina Spring Break: Weekend Trips from Greenville, SC

Biltmore gardens in Asheville, North Carolina

Asheville, NC

You really can’t go wrong heading to Asheville in Western North Carolina for any reason at any time of the year. You can stay near the mountain town and enjoy restaurants or head over to Pisgah Forest where waterfalls and hiking trails abound.

What to do: Hiking, waterfall chasing, Biltmore House.
Where to stay: Pilot Cove on the edge of Pisgah Forest
Drive time: 1.5 hours

Buffalo Creek Vacations, NC

Stay in either a decommissioned caboose or luxury cabin with a hot tub and game room – all on a buffalo ranch.

What to do: Enjoy the beautiful property and watch the buffalo roam, check out the model train room, play in the game room, hike the trails around the ranch. Or go to nearby towns to explore, hike, drive the Blue Ridge Parkway and see the gorgeous Blue Ridge Mountains while you chase some waterfalls.
Drive time: 1 hour and 45 minutes

Caboose rentals in North Carolina — Caboose rentals

Great Wolf Lodge, NC

For a vacation where you rarely have to leave the hotel, Great Wolf Lodge in Concord, NC right outside of Charlotte is a great option. Inside the hotel, you will also find multiple dining options in a range of prices and styles.

What to do: Included with your hotel stay is admission to the giant indoor water park and free family activities. In addition to the included activities, you can purchase either bundled at a discount or a la carte passes to additional activities such as MagiQuest and ShadowQuest, mini-golf, ropes course, bowling, arcades, and more. Local activities include the NASCAR Hall of Fame and ZMAX Dragway.
Drive time: 2.5 hours

Sapphire Valley, NC

My family has vacationed here several times and just loved it. If you rent a VRBO at the Sapphire Valley Resort, you’ll have a kitchen, which can save a lot of money when it comes to cooking your own meals vs. eating out. And you can buy an amenities pass, which gets you into the indoor pool, sauna, and hot tub plus gym and mini-golf.

What to do: Use the cheap amenities pass at the resort for pool time, or head out to hiking nearby trails to beautiful waterfalls and drive the Blue Ridge Parkway (all free!).
Where to stay: Check AirBnB or VRBO for the Sapphire Valley Resort or Lake Glenville
Drive time: 1.5 hours

Jump back to top to browse by state.

Georgia Spring Break: Easy Weekend Trips From Greenville, SC

Blairsville, GA

If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path destination with the perfect mix of Southern charm and amenities, this is it.

Things to do: Horseback riding, Trackrock Petroglyphs, Lasso the Moon Alpaca Farm, Meeks Park.
Where to stay: Shady Rest, The Ridges Resort & Marina.
Drive time: 3 hours

Helen, GA

Right in the middle of the Georgia mountains is the state’s third most-visited town, Helen. With tubing in the summer, Oktoberfest in the fall, and hiking all year round, this cute town is the perfect place to unwind with your family.

What to do: Hiking, family activities at Unicoi State Park like archery, fishing, and zip lining, eating authentic German cuisine, Hardman Farm.
Where to stay: A barrel cabin at Unicoi State Park.
Drive time: 2 hours

Historic Banning Mills, GA

Stay in a treehouse and ride the world’s longest zip line! The historic site is loaded with outdoor activities. You can also do smaller zip line courses, go hiking, or ride in a Spider ATV.

What to do: Lots of outdoor adventures like zip lining and spider ATVs
Where to stay: Right at Historic Banning Mills. They have fantastic treehouses and other accommodations.
Drive time: 3 hours

Pine Mountain, GA

Callaway Resort and Gardens is one of those places that surprises you in the best way. It’s massive, but not overwhelming, with winding bike trails, bursts of azaleas in the spring, and a heated outdoor pool that’s open year-round (that is actually warm!).

The gardens have one of the best butterfly centers in the country, you can wander through, a Discovery Center where you can get up close with raptors, and plenty of space to just slow down and breathe. If you can swing it, staying on-site makes the whole experience easier (and often cheaper when bundled).

Top things to do at Callaway Resort & Gardens:

Stay in the lodge, villas, or cottages
Bike or wander through 2,500 acres of gardens and forest
Step inside the Butterfly Center
Catch the Birds of Prey show
Time your visit with seasonal events and festivals

View of awesome fountain at Callaway Resort

Day butterfly exhibit at Callaway Resort and Gardens

Jump back to top to browse by state.

Tennessee Spring Break: Spring Break Trips from Greenville, SC

The view from Lookout Mountain in Tennessee.

Indoor waterpark at Wilderness at the Smokies

Chattanooga, TN

There are so many fun things to do in the Chattanooga/Lookout Mountain area that we have put together a full guide for you.

What to do: Rock City, Tennessee Aquarium, Ruby Falls, Lookout Mountain, Point Park Battlefield, Chattanooga Zoo, riverboat.
Where to stay: Hotel Chalet at the Choo Choo (a refurbished train car), Garden Walk Inn, Embassy Suites, or cabins at Cloudland Canyon Park.
Drive time: 4.5 hours

Gatlinburg / Pigeon Forge, TN

The town of Pigeon Forge, Tennessee rests outside the Great Smoky Mountain National Park and is just beautiful. It’s filled with a seemingly endless amount of entertainment like a fun dinner or miles of hiking trails in the mountain areas.

What to do: Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Anakeesta, Wild Bear Falls indoor waterpark, Sky Bridge, Ripley’s Aquarium, WonderWorks, the Titanic Museum, the Island at Pigeon Forge, Pink JEEP tour, dinner shows, Dollywood. Here’s a huge guide.
Where to stay: The Go Lodge, Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort, Greystone Lodge on the River, Margaritaville Island Hotel, Camp LeConte (glamping), Wilderness at the Smokies, Inn on the River, or covered wagons and tipis at Smoky Hollow Outdoor Resort. Be sure to check for special offers, like the ones that Camp Margaritaville in Pigeon Forge is running.
Drive time: 3 hours

Pool at Camp Margaritaville — Camp Margaritaville

Jump back to top to browse by state.

Virginia Spring Break: Beat the Heat in the Blue Ridge Mountains

Featured photo for Roanoke, Virginia with an iconic star monument and mural of people dancing outside the Taubman Museum of Art

Roanoke, VA

Roanoke in Virginia’s Blue Ridge is less than a half-day’s drive from Upstate South Carolina, and it offers wrap-around views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, easy access to the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway, and a fantastic selection of both indoor and outdoor fun for families!

What to do: Mill Mountain Park, Center in the Square, Blue Ridge Parkway, and more.
Where to stay: Hotel Roanoke is an amazing upscale option, and SpringHill Suites offers affordable comfort and convenience for families.
Drive time: 4 hours

Williamsburg, VA

We spent just a little over a day in Colonial Williamsburg and put together our top tips from our visit, plus our list of all the things we’d do if we could plan a longer vacation exploring Virginia’s Historic Triangle!

What to do: Explore Virginia’s Historic Triangle in Williamsburg, Jamestown, and Yorktown.
Drive time: 6.5 hours

Jump back to top to browse by state.

Florida Spring Break: Get Away for Spring Break to Somewhere Warm

St. Augustine, FL

St. Augustine is a great central city for some super cool activities like checking out manatees at Blue Springs, exploring alligator farms and historic forts, or heading into Orlando.

What to do: Alligator Zoo, Castillo de San Marcos, historic tours, old town St. Augustine, Blue Springs State Park, within driving distance to lots of day trips like Daytona Beach and Orlando.
Where to stay: VRBO has some great options, like this beachfront condo.
Drive time: 6.5 hours

LEGOLAND, FL

The outlier on our list but still worth the trip is LEGOLAND near Orlando, FL. The amusement park has rides, interactive games, special events, and even a hotel on the property. They also have a virtual reality roller coaster and a water park that’s open from March through October.

Drive time: 9 hours

Jump back to top to browse by state.

Find more family vacation destinations for every occasion with Kidding Around Travel!

What are your spring break plans?

Volunteering with Baby Goats at Whispering Pines Farm in Seneca, SC

Just an hour from Greenville, SC lies Whispering Pine Farm, a Grade A goat and sheep dairy and cheese-making farm. And, they train volunteers to help with their busy kidding season, which means learning how to care for and birth baby goats and lambs. Our resident goat-lover, Kristina, of course, had to do this.

Watch! See the Baby Goats

Visiting Whispering Pines

Our readers at Kidding Around know how much we (ok, I) love baby goats and that we’ll pretty much do anything to hang out with them and learn about them and cuddle with them and give them all our love. Well, we visited Whispering Pines Farm in Seneca to do all of that and learn from Debbie Webster, the farm owner who has years and years of experience.

baby goats at whispering pines farm — Newborn baby goat

Intro to Birthing Goats

“Precious is definitely having babies today,” Debbie said to our group of homeschoolers as we all gathered in the warm shop during introductions.

Precious is one of the many mama goats at Whispering Pines and she was due to have her kids when we were there, as were several other goat mamas.

I was thrilled. My kids seemed excited from their facial expressions. It could have also meant a little fear as to what we’d be seeing but I think it was excitement so that’s what I’m going with.

Debbie gave us a rundown of what we’d be learning: how to walk the pasture and look for signs of a labor in the goats and sheep, what to do if one does go into labor and starts pushing out a bundle of cuteness, how to make sure the babies are warm, how to feed them, and how to make sure the older babies get some exercise.

Not one minute after we walked out of the barn shop did Debbie say Precious had already given birth to one baby and another was on the way. It took us another minute to get to the pasture just in time to watch baby goat number two be born. All of us got an up-close view of the amniotic fluid coming out of the mama and the little baby coming out right after.

Then we all learned what afterbirth was. It’s a farm and we knew what we were getting into – and it was awesome.

Learning about Mama Goats

Right after Precious gave birth, another goat, Daphne, went into labor in the same pasture. How lucky were we?!

Debbie was careful to instruct us to give Daphne her space and not get up close to her. The kids in the group were really respectful and listened to Debbie and gave the mama goat a wide berth to go where she pleased. It’s important, we learned, to not look like any kind of predator or get too close as to stress out the mom.

goat giving birth at a farm — Mama goat giving birth

While the smaller kids were pretty good in the field and with the baby goats, these volunteer opportunities are better for older kids who can hold their own and not be managed as much.

All during this time, we were free to ask Debbie about what happens when a mama goat or sheep goes into labor, how they prefer to give birth, what needs to happen right after the baby is born, and how best to help the farm staff to handle all the births.

One of the biggest things we learned was just how carefully these mama goats and sheep need to be watched, especially in colder weather. The farm staff is so attentive to them, watching for the telltale signs of labor like pawing at the ground and circling around one space, and are ready at the drop of a hat (or baby goat?) to jump in and help the mama.

We saw Daphne give birth to one small baby goat and headed out of the pasture to go check out the older babies and let them out for recess.

More Baby Goats

The farm has pastures set up for sheep and goats and babies. The babies need to be kept warm and fed so they are in a separate area. These babies were just days old and oh-so-cute.

They were all huddled under a heat lamp but needed to practice running and jumping a bit. Our group helped the baby goats out into the sun and they got to play around for a bit.

In the meantime, the twins who were born to Precious were with us and needed to eat their first meal of nutritious colostrum. I was holding one of them and was in complete heaven but he needed to eat so off to the baby eating area we went. Like a human baby, a baby goat or lamb also gets colostrum, a nutrient-dense milk to help them get a good start in life. Baby goats and lambs get a few helpings of colostrum before they move onto regular goat’s milk.

feeding baby goats — Baby goat’s first feeding

After the twins were fed, four more baby goats came in. Remember Daphne the mama goat giving birth in the pasture? She ended up having quads. Four tiny baby goats – three girls and one boy – were now with us and they were so, so cute and adorable.

Since Whispering Pines is a dairy farm, the babies are separated from their mothers at birth. This is usually a tough thing for us non-farmers to process, especially us mothers, but it’s a very common practice and all the animals on the farm are happy and healthy.

Volunteering During Kidding Season

Whispering Pines Farm is a family-run farm and they really need volunteers. This particular volunteer orientation was fantastic as it was geared towards homeschoolers but they also have other opportunities during non-school times to volunteer and learn how to birth and care for baby goats and lambs.

During the 2025 kidding season, you are asked to fill out this volunteer form so Debbie knows who is coming and when.

You don’t need to have kids or be a kid or come as a family. You can come and volunteer in whatever state of life you’re in and you’ll probably leave happier than when you came. This kind of volunteer experience is best suited for kids ages 9+ just because the babies are fragile and need special care and attention. If parents bring their human kids, they need to watch them closely.

We always recommend following the business itself for updates at Whispering Pines Facebook and special events. You can also text or call Debbie herself (864.360.3222). She’s an open book and will tell you exactly what you can do and what she needs.

Speaking of needs, Whispering Pines really needs towels. With all the kids they are having on the farm, the need for towels is great. Every time a baby is born, they need a clean towel. If you can drop them off at the farm, that’d be fantastic. Or call Debbie and she can help you figure out how to get them there.

If you choose to volunteer, wear clothes you don’t mind getting dirty and dress warmly with hats, gloves, and layers. It’s a farm and you’ll be getting dirty.

About Whispering Pines Farm

Whispering Pines is a family-owned and operated dairy farm. They have horses, cows, goats, and sheep and are a “licensed Grade A Raw Goat and Sheep and Cow milk dairy and cheese making facility.”

The farm is set on 180 acres in Seneca, SC, about an hour outside of Greenville. The farm used to be in Mauldin, which is where I first visited years and years ago. I always loved learning about the sheep and goats and of course, cuddling any baby goat or lamb I could.

Debbie Webster is a longtime farmer and horsewoman who has used all those acres and animals to help others in so many ways. Her farm has hosted 4 H clubs, homeschoolers, and kids and families with special needs. She used to put on an elaborate live nativity at the farm in Mauldin where they had a large indoor arena. She’s changed her farm in many ways since moving to Seneca yet everything at the farm has a purpose and Debbie’s heart always shines through to every visitor.

Besides volunteer classes during kidding season, Debbie also hosts cheese-making classes at the farm, which I find completely fascinating and would love to do someday. Her products are available on-site at the farm as well as at some local retailers like the Swamp Rabbit Cafe.

Lastly, Whispering Pines offers starter flocks and sheep/goat milking classes.

Whispering Pines Farm
681 Old Campbell Bridge Road, Seneca
860.360.3222

Baby Animals at petting zoos and farms in Greenville, SC

Want more baby animals?
We have a whole list for that.

Where to See Baby Animals near Greenville, SC

Want more places to volunteer? Check this list out: The Ultimate Guide to Volunteering Opportunities in Greenville

Amenities and Family Fun Abound at the Inn on the River in Pigeon Forge, TN

The Inn on the River in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee has lots of great amenities for families as they enjoy time together and explore the fun town of Pigeon Forge and Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It was voted the #1 best hotel in Pigeon Forge for 2024!

We received a complimentary stay so we could review the hotel. All opinions are those of the author.

If you’re looking for a central place to stay when you visit the Smoky Mountains, one that helps your dollar stretch pretty far, than look no further than the Inn on the River in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. The hotel is near all the great attractions of Pigeon Forge, has several family-friendly amenities, and has staff that truly go the extra mile to make you feel at home.

The Inn on the River

The Inn on the River is exactly like sounds, right on the Little Pigeon River. We had a riverfront view from our room, complete with chairs outside so we could sit and watch the calming river rush by. We even saw a blue heron fishing for dinner on our first night there. Plus, we could see the Great Smoky Mountain Sky Wheel and were within walking distance to several attractions and restaurants.

In fact, our first night there, we walked across the street to try out Magiquest and then walked over to Five Guys for burgers and fries for dinner. It was really nice not to have to drive since we had just come from Greenville. There are several restaurants that you can walk to as well as shows and other entertainment. The Inn lists lots of those places within walking distance on their website. Pigeon Forge is only a three-hour drive, but I’m not a big fan of sitting in the car for long so this was perfect for us.

We explored several attractions during our visit, and nothing was more than a six-minute drive. It was truly an ideal location. The 128 rooms have all been recently renovated and were clean and comfortable. Each room also has a customized Alexa device, which my kids endlessly used to request Dolly Parton songs and ask what cats sounded like. Rooms also have a coffee maker, mini-fridge, and microwave.

So Many Amenities at Inn on the River

The Pools

Let’s start with what kids care about: the pool. The Inn on the River has both an indoor heated pool with jacuzzi and an outdoor pool. We traveled there in January so we didn’t use the outdoor pool, but I did need to tear my kids away from the indoor pool because they loved it. The water is heated, and there are pool toys and goggles available. The room is so nice and warm, too, which felt amazing after being outside in the chilly air most of the days we were in Pigeon Forge. The hot tub is so relaxing as well. Each night we spent at the Inn included a pre-bedtime swim, which was just a great way to wind down the busy days.

Free Breakfast

The Inn on the River also provides free breakfast each morning and has an assortment of both hot and cold offerings like eggs, sausage, biscuits, fruit, waffles, and oatmeal. There is a beautiful sunroom that you can choose to eat your breakfast in that overlooks the river. It’s really nice and calming, and we loved eating out there. Fill up on that breakfast so you can tackle all your fun plans while in the Smokies.

Free Hot Drinks and Popcorn

Additionally, the Inn offers free hot chocolate, coffee, and tea all day long. I cannot even count how many times we had hot chocolate during our visit. It was a lot. They also offer free popcorn from 7 PM- 10 PM every night. My kids were in heaven.

One thing that we didn’t make use of that I completely forgot about was the outdoor fire pit. It’s right on the river, but I forgot because the kids wanted to use the pool at night. Next time!

Gifts for Kids

When we checked in, the hotel staff let each of my kids pick a small gift, which included a toy. It was so cute and personable. Check-in was fast, and the staff was very kind and helpful, letting us know when breakfast was, how late the pool was open, and that they had free books and games available for guests while they enjoyed their stay. The lobby is very inviting as well, with comfortable couches to relax on in front of the fireplace.

Honest Mom Review of the Inn on the River

There are tons of places to stay in Pigeon Forge, and it’s hard to know which one is right for your family. I was impressed with the Inn on the River because their staff was very kind, helpful, and welcoming. Everyone was so nice, from the front desk clerk and manager to the employees cleaning the tables and replenishing food during breakfast to those sweeping the floors of the hallways.

The location was also perfect. I didn’t need to travel much at all once we arrived to the hotel, and it was easy to get around Pigeon Forge both by car and foot. Lastly, I don’t think it gets much better for kids on vacation to have a pool all year round. I’m a lot more lenient with my kids when it comes to their bedtimes when we are traveling and was happy to have them enjoy swimming for a couple later-than-usual nights. The hot chocolate was awesome, too, and a free breakfast is so helpful when traveling to save on meal costs.

I also really loved the location right next to the river. It was chilly when we went, but I could open the curtains and watch the river, which I really enjoyed. Anything close to nature like that is a win for me.

Making Your Reservation

Be sure to sign up for Inn on the River’s email newsletters and check their Specials page before you book as they offer some packages that may be of interest. All active duty military get 10% off their stays.

Like any hotel, costs vary depending on the season and room type. During the slower winter season, you can get a riverside room with two queen beds for around $159/night. That same room in the busiest months of July and October is around $285/night, and in December, it’s about $259/night. If you have AAA or AARP, that will knock the price down about 10%.

You can book a room online on the Inn on the River website.

Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg Family Guide

For more things to do in Pigeon Forge, see our Guide to Pigeon Forge & Gatlinburg.

Inn on the River Website
2492 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN

Soar to New Heights at The Island in Pigeon Forge, TN

Inside: A guide to the Island in Pigeon Forge, TN created by parents who’ve visited multiple times, including things to do, places to eat, and where to stay.

The Island in Pigeon Forge in Pigeon Forge, TN, is full of fun things to do for the whole family, whether you like exciting rides, good food, or prime shopping. We visited the Island and have all the details you need to plan a great trip.

Some of the experiences listed below were provided as complimentary tickets or stays for Kidding Around.

If you’ve ever seen photos of the iconic Ferris wheel in Pigeon Forge, this is where it is, on the Island in Pigeon Forge. While the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel is absolutely a must-do, the Island is filled with tons of things to stay busy and have fun for the whole family.

My kids and I have visited the Island a couple times and never run out of things to do and see! While many of the attractions require admission tickets, there are plenty of free things to do there. Additionally, Pigeon Forge has a wonderful guide with coupons that is available online and via hard copy at the Welcome Center. You can also get it mailed to you.

Playing at The Island

Great Smoky Mountain Wheel

The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel at the Island was our favorite thing to do. We went once during the day and took another spin at night. We could see so far, and the views of the mountains were stunning. We visited in the winter, and we could see snow on the tops of the mountains. We loved it. We felt very safe (I have a slight fear of heights!) and really enjoyed the views.

The night ride was also amazing because we could see all the lights around Pigeon Forge. It was so cool. You go 200 feet up, so you get a great bird’s eye view. Tickets are $16.99/adult and $11.99/kids 3 – 11. You can buy a day/night pass for $22.99.

Great Smoky Mountain Wheel from below — Great Smoky Mountain Wheel

Island Ropes Course

The Island Ropes Course consists of three levels of obstacles. It also gives participants the option of doing a free-fall controlled jump on the highest level to complete the course. You can spend as much time as you want on the course, which includes two zip lines. The course is all outdoors, so definitely dress for the weather.

There is also a little ropes course, the Sky Tykes Course, for kids under 48″ tall. The bigger ropes course is open to anyone 42″ or taller. Those under 48″ need an adult on the ropes course with them. Tickets are $16.99/person for the Island Ropes Course and $5.99/kid for the Sky Tykes Course.

Island Ropes Course in Pigeon Forge, TN — Island Ropes Course

SkyFly: Soar America

SkyFly opened in 2021 and received USA Today‘s “Best New Attraction” award in 2021. I had no idea what to expect with this ride, but it was so, so cool. You are suspended in a seat in front of a 50-foot dome screen and taken on a six-minute ride across 20 iconic locations in the United States, from Niagara Falls to the Grand Canyon to Alaska. I absolutely loved it and would do it again in a heartbeat. Tickets are $25.80/adult and $20.19/ages 11 and under. Kids must be 40″ tall to ride.

Arcade City

We aren’t a huge arcade family, and we had the grandparents with us when we visited Arcade City on the Island, but we had such a fun time! The place is super clean, and there are tons of games for all ages. The arcade includes everything from basketball and crane games to virtual reality, multiple-person games.

It’s the kind of spot that works great for all ages, which is perfect if you’ve got a range of people with you or just need an easy indoor activity. $25 gets you a $30 game card, $50 gets you a $65 game card, and $100 gets you a $145 game card. Sometimes you can even find better deals around town or online.

Arcade City at the Island at Pigeon Forge, TN — Arcade City

Other Attractions on the Island

Other attractions on the Island include an Escape Room, a mirror maze, bumper cars, a carousel, a 7D theater, racing track, a little kids-size roller coaster, and lots of other games. You can pay for these individually or get an unlimited rides two-day pass for $40-50/person. The pass covers a great many rides on the Island.

You can also visit the parrot shop and see live parrots or even some baby parrots. They are adorable. There’s also a Build-A-Bear Workshop and lots of shops to explore that carry unique gifts.

And if you’re lucky enough to be in Pigeon Forge for New Year’s, you can see fireworks at the Island for New Year’s Eve!

Eating at The Island

The Island was designed to look like a small village with cozy streets lined with cute little shops where you can buy toys or clothes, take one of those Old Time Photos in sepia with your family, and The Fudgery (get the chocolate fudge). It’s fun to stroll around and check out all these places. Take a break and relax in one of the many inviting chairs surrounding the small lake where the dancing fountains spray the water in coordination with the outdoor music.

When you’re hungry, the on-site restaurants include a Paula Deen’s Family Kitchen, Mellow Mushroom, Yee-Haw Brewing Company, and Timberwood Grill. You can grab an authentic, and quite delicious, margarita at the Changes in Latitude bar at the Margaritaville hotel, as well as enjoy a quick bite (get the pretzels with cheese dip…mmmm).

Shopping on The Island: 80+ Fun Shops to Explore

We had so much fun exploring the shops at The Island in Pigeon Forge! With over 80 stores, there’s a little something for everyone, from unique souvenirs and home decor to silly toys and sweet treats. We wandered in “just to look” and end up laughing at quirky finds and even bought some vintage candy that Grandma remembered from her childhood.

One of our favorite stops was Pepper Palace, where they offer free hot sauce samples (yes, really!). Our teenager tried every single sauce they offered — even the really spicy ones — until we hit the level where they required a waiver. That was our cue to tap out!

You can browse the full list of shops and plan your must-visits here: Shopping at The Island

Shops at the Island at Pigeon Forge, TN — Shopping at The Island at Pigeon Forge

Lodging at The Island

The Island at Pigeon Forge is central to pretty much all of the attractions in town. It’s 10 minutes from the Smoky Mountain Opry and Titanic Museum and 15 minutes from Dollywood. You can walk across the street to a couple different pancake houses and other attractions if you like.

Choosing to stay on the Island is a great decision for all of these reasons! The Margaritaville Island Hotel is incredible and guests can enjoy the rooftop pool and hot tub all year long. There’s also the Margaritaville Island Inn on the Island, which is under the same brand but is a little less expensive and includes a continental breakfast.

Parking at The Island

Parking at the Island is free, just take a right past the Margaritaville Island Hotel and over the bridge, where there is a huge lot. Park for free there and take a trolley into the main part of the Island if you don’t want to walk.

Pro Tips

Don’t forget to grab the coupon books around town or check online since many of them have coupons to attractions and restaurants on the Island. The Island’s website offers many coupons as well.

You can plan to spend a few hours or a couple of days here, especially if you stay at one of the properties on the Island.

If you visit The Island during Winterfest in Pigeon Forge, the Wonders of Lights Walking Trail starts at the Island and is free to walk through.

The Island at Pigeon Forge Website
131 Island Drive, Pigeon Forge, TN
865-286-0119
The Island Facebook Page

Are you looking for more fun things to do in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee? Check out our Kidding Around Guide to Pigeon Forge!

Are you looking for affordable places to take your kids to dinner? Check out our 10+ Places Kids Eat Free in Pigeon Forge guide.

Enjoy These Romantic Valentine’s Day Restaurants in Greenville, SC

Looking for a special Valentine’s Day meal in Greenville, SC? If you just love celebrating love and that stuff with your significant other, we’ve got a list of Valentine’s Day restaurants in the Greenville, SC area that are offering special love-day menus. Plus, we’ve included a few other events that you may like to try with your partner, best friend, or family to celebrate the holiday.

(more…)

Raspberry Moon in Greenville, SC Delivers the Facial You Didn’t Know Your Skin Was Begging For

Look no further for a completely relaxing and rejuvenating experience with Nicole at Raspberry Moon Skin Therapy in Greenville, SC. We tried out one of the facials, and wow, it was amazing! Thank you to Nicole for having us out to try the experience so we could write this review.

The second I walked into Nicole’s skin therapy studio, I knew the entire experience was going to be awesome. It smelled heavenly, the design was welcoming and comfortable, there were cat portraits in the bathroom, and Nicole herself is an angel. This woman not only carries more than two decades of experience in the skin therapy industry, but she is also so sweet and kind. And her literal signature on her emails after her name is “Facialist & Waxing Ninja.” Why wouldn’t you want her help?

Full Service Skin Therapy Studio in Greenville

Raspberry Moon has all kinds of skin therapy options: facials, waxing, eyebrow and eyelash tinting, manscaping, and chemical peels. She also offers teen facials. Nicole has decades of experience, and really, you could not be in better hands.

You can see her full menu of services on her website and choose what you would like to do.

The Facial Experience

Nicole offers several options for facials, which all depend on what you and your skin need. I have not had a facial in a very long time and had no idea what I needed, which was perfect for the “No Idea What I Need” option ($110). Seriously, that’s what it is called. I love direct wording.

The experience started with a consultation. Nicole asked about my skincare routine, any concerns I had, my age, and common activities. She then looked at my skin under a big microscope, where I couldn’t hide all my bad skin decisions of the past. Thankfully, no judgment there!

My skin was badly in need of hydration, so that’s where she wanted to start, and said she would just see where to go from there. I liked that she left the path open and would figure it out as she went, and saw how my skin reacted or saw other things that she thought my skin needed once we got started. I appreciate that kind of plan because every single one of us and our skin is different. All of her clients need different things, and I liked that she was so in tune with that fact and was open to changing things up as needed.

Once I was situated in the warm bed under the softest covers ever, Nicole began working on my face and neck with washes and masks and extractions and exfoliators. There was a lot going on, but it all felt absolutely amazing. She recognized different areas of attention that my skin needed and adjusted the products as needed.

One thing I thought was so cool was the rubber mask she used. It felt great, and while it dried, Nicole massaged my arms, hands, legs, and feet. I did not want that to end.

After we were done, I was expecting my face to be red and blotchy from extractions and products my skin was not used to, per my experience with previous facials, but that was so far from what happened here. My skin looked radiant! It felt hydrated and fresh, and I was so happy with the experience.

Booking Your Own Facial (Or Other Skin Treatment)

If you’re reading this and think that you could seriously use an experience like this, book it. Don’t even hesitate. Your skin deserves this kind of attention. Nicole is such a good aesthetician because she listens, she uses top-of-the-line products, and she brings years of experience to the studio.

If you love the products Nicole uses during the treatment, she sells them at the studio. My facial included a little travel bag of products, which I was very excited about! You can shop online as well.

Visit Raspberry Moon’s website to book your own skin therapy treatment. The studio is located close to downtown Greenville.

Raspberry Moon Skin Therapy
1211D Laurens Road, Greenville | 864.271.2710
Raspberry Moon Skin Therapy Website