Inside: Get up close and personal with giraffes at the Greenville Zoo in Greenville, SC with their new feeding platform. We got to visit and have all the details!
Ever wanted to feed a giraffe and get a selfie in front of the cool creatures? You can do that at our very own Greenville Zoo. Thanks to private donations, the Jim and Janice Cordes Giraffe Encounters is now complete and ready for guests!
Watch! Feeding Giraffes at the Greenville Zoo
🦒 The Giraffe Feeding Platform at Greenville Zoo
Giraffes are the tallest animals on Earth, standing up to 14–19 feet tall! And here’s a fun bonus: they’re herbivores, so families can relax — there’s no raw meat involved when feeding these gentle giants.
During your visit, giraffes might stroll up to the feeding platform to snag a snack from guests — think crunchy biscuits or leafy greens. It’s a cool way to get eye-level with these amazing animals!
🖐️ The Giraffe Feeding Experience
The Jim and Janice Cordes Giraffe Encounter at the Greenville Zoo is just as awesome as it sounds. Families can step onto the special feeding deck and, if the giraffes are feeling friendly, hand-feed one right from the platform!
🕒 When Can You Feed a Giraffe?
The giraffe encounter typically runs Fridays through Sundays during:
10:00–11:30 am
1:30–3:00 pm
BUT (and this is important), the experience depends on:
Weather
Staff availability
Whether the giraffes feel like coming over!
When you arrive at the zoo, check at the front gate to see if the feeding platform will be open that day. And remember — this is a one-of-a-kind animal experience, so it’s worth being a little patient!
Cost of Giraffe Encounters at the Greenville Zoo
Purchase tokens for $5 or $4 for members. Giraffes participate voluntarily — your token grants access to the deck, but the giraffes choose whether or not they want to eat.
If the giraffes choose not to eat that day, and you have already purchased a token you can bring it back another day.
Summer Tip: If the heat index is 100 or up, the encounter will close early or not open.
The Greenville Zoo is primarily community-funded, so every encounter helps support the care of the animals and upcoming improvements. We recommend considering a membership, so if you miss the Giraffe Encounter one day, you can easily head back another day.
The zoo is currently home to Masai giraffes Miles and Autumn, who are part of the Species Survival Program. Many baby giraffes have been born at the Zoo in the past ten years, including Kiko, Kellen and Providence.
The devastation from Hurricane Helene in Western North Carolina rages on many months later as small businesses struggle to recover. But this area is indeed open and they are grateful for tourists to come and enjoy the small towns, restaurants, hiking trails, and all the beauty that is Western NC. Here’s where to go.
Western NC is open and they are in need of tourism as that is their main source of income. Hurricane Helene hit during the worst possible time for the area: the fall leaf peeping season. These small businesses lost a huge percentage of their annual profits because of that.
You were there for these towns when they needed water, food, and supplies. You volunteered, you collected donated items, and you bought Christmas presents. None of that went unnoticed. But they are still struggling. Tourism is the best way to help support our neighbors and friends in Western NC.
The Upstate is less than an hour from many of these amazing small, mountain towns and really no more than two hours from all the others. You can visit these beautiful spots, shop, eat, hike, and enjoy they have to offer.
Here are a few ideas of where to go and what to do in Western NC.
Tubing with Brevard Tubing
Lake Lure
While the beach and lake at Lake Lure are not open, may restaurants and local businesses are open. Plus, there are some fantastic hiking trails nearby, which makes this spot a pretty easy day trip to enjoy.
Where to play
Take a hike: We absolutely love the Conserving Carolina trails and will always recommend them. Some of our favorites aren’t open yet but if you are a somewhat experienced hiker without small kids, we’d recommend Strawberry Gap Trail (~6 miles, moderate/hard) or Youngs Mountain (~4.5 miles, moderate/hard with drop-offs, permit needed). Both have incredible views.
Zip through the trees: Go ziplining at Canopy Ridge, where kids as young as 2 can participate! There are six ziplines and you can expect to soar through the trees for about an hour and a half. They are open Fridays-Mondays.
Lake Lure Flowering Bridge: While the bridge is half gone (and will be completely removed in the coming months), the volunteers at the Flowering Bridge have planted some beautiful flowers you can enjoy. One of the gazebo’s survived Helene and is at the entrance. They are accepting donations to rebuild what they can.
Chimney Rock State Park: It’s back open! You’ll need to make reservations but we are thrilled the park is open. Several businesses along the main drag in Chimney Rock Village are also open – this is huge news!
Paint pottery: You can paint your pottery at Lake Lure Pottery or buy some of their beautiful pieces to take home!
Canopy Ridge at Lake Lure
Where to Eat
We loved El Lago at Lake Lure Beach for their tasty tacos and nachos.
Other open restaurants are:
Victory Kitchen
Lured Market & Grill l
Grey Hawk Lake Lure
LakeHouse
Highlands Reserve
Canoe Kitchen
Chimney Rock Smokehouse
Fae Nectar
Black Mountain
Black Mountain is right next to Swannanoa, one of the hardest hit areas of Hurricane Helene. This charming mountain town will lure you in for its beauty, shops, restaurants, and hospitality.
Scenes from Black Mountain
Where to Play
Main Street: Black Mountain has an amazing Main Street that has all kinds of interesting shops with local goods, teas, ice cream, clothing, and awesome hats (seriously, they have cool hats). My daughters and I spent two hours just walking around downtown and shopping.
Local hikes: Lookout Mountain in nearby Montreat is a very short mile hike (roundtrip) with incredible views. It’s pretty steep going up and you have to scramble over some rocks to get to the top but wow, the view is awesome. Also not far away is Catawba Falls, which is perfect for a summer swim. You can do the three-mile loop and see the huge waterfall, which consists of a lower and upper falls. Whether you go clockwise or counterclockwise, you’ll be going uphill so take it slow if you need.
Black Mountain Pool: This public pool has a zero entry area with water sprays for smaller kids. It’s a fun spot to hang out and open to everyone. Be sure to check the website before you go for operating hours. Admission for non-residents range from $3-$6 per person.
Where to Eat
There are several restaurants in Black Mountain to enjoy. We absolutely loved our dinner at the Trailhead Restaurant & Bar – the chicken sandwich was amazing.
Other restaurants our readers recommend are:
Louise’s Kitchen
Ole Guacamoles
Sassafras
Godfathers Pizza
Berliner Kindl German
The Social (nearby – not in downtown Black Mountain)
Peri Social House (they have a fully fenced in kids zone)
Brevard
Brevard has been a favorite town of mine for years. Thankfully it wasn’t hit as hard as some of the other places in Western NC but they did have cleanup to do, which is now finished!
Sliding down Sliding Rock
Where to Play
Sliding Rock: The famous Sliding Rock in Pisgah Forest is open Memorial Day through Labor Day 9 am – 6 pm daily (go before Noon and after 4 pm for lesser crowds) and staffed with lifeguards. Admission is $5/person. Yes, the water is cold but it’s awesome and fun and we ended up sliding multiple times because really, why not.
Hikes: Moore Cove Falls and Fryingpan Tower (both 1.5 miles roundtrip) are awesome hikes that are easy and have big payoffs in terms of waterfalls and views. Stop by the Pisgah Ranger Center at the entrance to the forest for more suggestions on local hikes or check out the AllTrails app. There are miles and miles of trails there.
Go tubing: Brevard Tubing is very close to the entrance to Pisgah Forest. You can tube all you want for $30. It’s a relaxing trip and the owners are really nice!
Cradle of Forestry: Did you know you can ride an indoor helicopter at the Cradle of Forestry just minutes from Sliding Rock? We love this cool spot for its Blue Ghost Fireflies tours, amazing display of the history of forestry in the region, beautiful trails, and old log cabins. Definitely put the Cradle of Forestry on your list when you are out that way.
Check out festivals: Brevard hosts some pretty awesome festivals throughout the year so be sure to look at their latest event calendar before planning your trip. You may find your new favorite festival!
Go shopping: One of our favorite shops in Brevard is Next Venture Outdoors, a consignment shop for all things outdoors – clothing, gear, shoes, tents, paddles, backpacks. The original O.P. Taylor’s toy store is in downtown Brevard and it’s so cool! You can see other shops at Brevard’s website. Walking around Main Street in Brevard is worth it. It’s an authentic little mountain town that you’ll love as much as we do once you go and visit.
Where to Eat
We really enjoyed lunch at Pescado’s & Sunrise (20 Mclean Road, Brevard, NC), which is really close to the entrance to Pisgah Forest. They have sandwiches, burgers, and wraps at affordable prices. A recommendation we got but didn’t go was the Pisgah Bakehouse (1980 Asheville Hwy, Brevard, NC), which also has sandwiches and baked goods. We love Pisgah Roasters for coffee. Downtown Brevard has several restaurants.
Asheville
Asheville is still very much on the road to recovery but they are – and have been – welcoming visitors.
Black bear at the WNC Nature Center
Where to Play
Biltmore Estate: I am such a big fan of the Biltmore that I went and got an annual pass years ago. The gardens, the House, the winery, the village – everything is worth exploring. Read our review for all the info.
Asheville Retrocade: For $10/person, you can play all the retro games you want at this fun arcade.
WNC Nature Center: This is a cool nature center because they have awesome playgrounds scattered throughout plus lots of animals to learn about. Be sure to stay tuned to their website as they have special events throughout the year.
Sierra Nevada Brewery:Sierra Nevada has excellent brews, fun games for all ages, and fantastic food. They often have live music on the weekends as well.
Where to Eat
I’m a big fan of Papas & Beer – the one closest to the Biltmore. Their food is tasty and reasonable. I also love the Village Bakery in Flat Rock, which would be on your way home from Asheville to Greenville. Their pizza and salads are worth the day trip alone.
Beech Mountain
When it’s crazy hot in Greenville, think about Beech Mountain – it’s regularly 10 to 15 degrees cooler up there than in the Upstate because it’s the highest town in the Eastern United States at over 5,000 feet above sea level.
Mountaineer Adventure Tower
Where to Play
Buckeye Recreation Center: The Buckeye Recreation Centers offers two free ropes playgrounds, free kayak rentals, free canoe rentals, free hiking trails, and free fishing. Buckeye Lake is a small lake but you can’t really get better than free boat rentals there. It’s perfect for families to paddle around. You can also fish there and rent fishing gear for free (bait not included).
Emerald Outback Hiking Trails: There are about eight miles of hiking and biking trails at Emerald Outback and several overlook points. The map is honestly quite fun with the trails all having Wizard of Oz-themed named like Ruby Slippers, Oz Forest, and Wizards Way. They all have different colors as well and the trail system is well-marked but I highly recommend using a good hiking app on your phone because we had some issues going in the right direction on some of the trails.
Mountaineer Adventure Tower: The Adventure Tower is three stories of rope obstacle courses and climbing structures. The topmost level has giant beach balls and Eno hammocks; the second level has rope obstacles and rope swings along with a 25-foot high slide; the first level has lots of bouncy dodge balls; and the ground level has several lawn games and oh-so-relaxing nest swings. I did not want to leave those nest swings. It was so relaxing to swing on them in the mountain breeze.
Grandfather Mountain: Nearby Grandfather Mountain is one of the coolest parks I’ve ever been to in North Carolina and home to the real life Chutes & Ladders trail. My kids are experienced hikers and we’ve done this trail twice and both times I’ve questioned my life decisions but wow, it’s worth it if you are experienced and take proper trail precautions. If you don’t like hanging off the sides of mountains, Grandfather Mountain also has a fantastic nature center, Ranger talks, special events, and the Mile High Bridge. You can also see the curve where Forrest Gump ran in the movie. Read our review on Grandfather Mountain to learn how to experience this cool place.
Mile High Bridge at Grandfather Mountain
Alpine Mountain Coaster: The Wilderness Run Alpine Mountain Coaster is the first of its kind in Western North Carolina. The track is over 3,000 feet long and you get up to 27 miles per hour on the coaster, which is controlled by the rider.
Where to Eat
Fred’s Backside Deli: This place is a gem of Beech Mountain. It has multiple purposes: a hole-in-the-wall restaurant downstairs, a general store on the first and second floors. I was wondering if there was anything this cool spot doesn’t do or have. Their tagline is actually, “If we don’t have it, you don’t need it.” Nailed it.
Famous Brick Oven Pizzeria: Their menu includes pizza, wings, salads, sandwiches, pasta, the largest beer selection on the mountain, a full bar, a bakery, and an ice cream counter. We enjoyed a delicious cheese pizza split with a four cheese pizza, a Greek salad, and amazing hand cut fries. Fries are my weakness and oh my gosh, these were delicious.
5506’ Skybar: The views at Skybar are worth it alone but the food was also really good. My daughters had burgers and I had a chicken wrap. It came with fruit or chips and we each enjoyed a Shirley Temple while taking in stunning views of the surrounding mountains. You’re so high at 5,506’ that you really feel like you can touch the clouds.
Inside: The new Saluda Lake Landing just outside downtown Greenville, SC is now open and offers lots of family-friendly fun. Kristina checked it out and has all the details!
Saluda Lake Landing is just seven miles from downtown Greenville, SC and offers lots of great summer fun, including water rentals and a delicious on-site restaurant. They also do several events throughout the summer and into the fall. It’s very much a hidden gem.
Floaters on the lake
Watch! Check out our visit to Saluda Lake Landing
About Saluda Lake Landing
Saluda Lake Landing has been a staple in Greenville for many years until the owners weren’t able to care for it any longer and needed to sell. It closed for years until the new owners, Dawn and her husband, Tobias, bought it in 2022.
It’s located on the private Saluda Lake, a fairly large lake super close to Greenville. The Saluda River flows into it and it’s the lake where the Saluda Dam resides and releases water into the river. If you’ve ever tubed with the Saluda Outdoor Center, you’ll enter right at the dam to the lake.
Dawn and Tobias opened an AirBnB right on the property soon after opening, which you can rent today – it’s a great location! The property offers two bedrooms and one bathroom and can fit six people, which is perfect for staycations and family who come to visit.
Saluda Lake Landing is also pet-friendly but pets must be on a leash at all times.
Get Your Float On
Floating is the name of the game at Saluda Lake Landing. The atmosphere is very chill and laid back. When we got there midday on a Saturday during a holiday weekend, there were people just floating on tubes in the lake and just having fun. A DJ was blasting some seriously good tunes and everyone was really nice and happy. It’s always good to see happy employees.
Saluda Lake Landing has lots of rentals to choose from: kayaks, paddleboards, pedal boats, super SUPs, canoes, and tubes. Rentals range from $20-$25 for the single kayaks and paddleboards for two hours. You have to be age 15+ to paddle alone. Ages 5 and under must wear a life jacket when on the dock or in the water. There is no minimum to tube but the business asks that parents accompany kids 13 and under.
Just floating around
Tubes are rented for $5/each.
This is such a chill thing to do and a fun experience for the summer, especially on those crazy hot days. And it’s so close to Greenville!
Eats & Drinks at Saluda Lake Landing
The menu for Saluda Lake Landing consists of nachos, burgers, hot dogs, sandwiches, wraps, fries, and tacos. They also have breakfast Saturdays and Sundays, plus coffee, tea, and hot chocolate.
We got the burger, chicken sandwich, nachos, and sweet potato puffs. Everything was really good and the prices were reasonable (~$12 for a chicken sandwich, $10 nachos – which is a huge portion). They also offer a kids menu.
Yum, nachos
If it’s summer on the water, grabbing a cold brew is a nice treat. They have mimosas, wine, craft beer, ciders, and non-alcoholic drinks.
Thursdays are Kids Eat Free night with one free kids meal for every adult meal purchased. They have live music on Saturdays and Sundays and karaoke on Friday nights.
No outside food or drink are allowed.
Swimming, Fishing, and Floating at Saluda Lake Landing
While there is no admission charge to visit Saluda Lake Landing (unless they are having some special event), they do charge $5/person for swimming during operating hours.
Don’t expect a mountain lake here with clear water. There are no swimming advisories for this lake or river so it’s fine to jump in. But it is cloudy, which honestly doesn’t matter when it’s 99 degrees outside with crazy high humidity.
You can bring your own kayak, paddleboard, or canoe and pay $5 to get in the water here. You can bring a boat, which costs $10.
You can also fish at Saluda Lake Landing. Kids under 12 are free and everyone else is $3/person. They have a nice dock with chairs but you can bring your own as well.
Honest Mom Review
I had heard of Saluda Lake Landing in the past year but only in passing. I was thrilled to get the chance to visit this new small business, meet the owners, and get a feel for what they are doing right outside of Greenville. I loved just hanging out with my kids on the water and while it wasn’t the typical burning hot summer day when we went, I was imagining that the water would feel really awesome on those days.
I really liked its close proximity to Greenville, which meant we could go and eat and hang out and have fun but also be home soon after and not have a long drive from other places I usually go in the mountains. The owners are very nice and want their guests to have fun and make memories together. They have worked hard to bring to life their vision of a fun, family-friendly experience in Greenville and I think they nailed it.
Safety first!
Hours and Location
Summer hours are:
Monday – Friday: 3 – 8 pm
Saturday and Sunday: 8 am – 8 pm
Be sure to check out the Saluda Lake Landing website and sign up for their newsletter for deals on rentals and information on upcoming events.
All Aboard! In this post, you’ll discover: 🎟️ Details on the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad Kids Ride Free summer deal (and how to book it) 🛤️ Two scenic train ride options: Nantahala Gorge and Tuckasegee River 🏕️ Unique lodging picks — from cozy yurts to a real 1960s caboose! 🏞️ Extra family-friendly adventures nearby, including rafting, tubing & waterfall hikes
The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad has an excellent summertime deal for taking a scenic train ride out of the historic depot in North Carolina’s Bryson City. Train lovers, this is your chance to take the little ones in your family on an adventure, for much cheaper. Kids ride free on the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad out of downtown Bryson City, NC this summer!
I always thought there was something oh-so-romantic about riding an old steam locomotive train. Maybe it’s just because it’s not something we do often in today’s modern world, or that the old photos of these trains often had women with beautiful, full dresses and lace umbrellas and boots – something I always thought was pretty cool.
While I don’t have a hoop skirt – and won’t anytime soon – luckily, you don’t need one to ride the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad. This is the same Bryson City train that does the Polar Express during the Christmas season. We’ve got all the details on a pretty awesome deal they have for families over the summer, though!
Kids Ride Free on the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad
During the summertime, they are offering a pretty amazing deal: they are offering a free child’s ticket (ages 2-12) with every Adult ticket purchased all summer on trains that run Monday – Friday. Coach and open air tickets are only available for this promotion, so first-class cars will not be available for this deal.
Tickets are valid on one of the two scenic general excursions in Standard Coach – either the Diesel locomotive power on Tuckasegee River or Nantahala Gorge. The trains leave out of the depot in downtown Bryson City.
Ticket purchases can be made to ride May 1, 2025 – September 30th, 2025. Tickets for Kids Ride Free can’t be combined with other discounts, are subject to blackout dates, and aren’t available for special event trains. However, you will be able to access the train museum with your ticket, which kids love! Also, ask about their box lunches so you can pack light!
Most discounts are only available by phone. Contact 800-872-4681 to complete your Kids Ride Free purchase.
The Bryson City Train Ride Through the Smokies
The Great Smoky Mountains rail has 53 miles of railroad to traverse, but not every excursion uses all of those miles. There are also two tunnels and 25 bridges. Train rides roll through the majestic mountains and river gorges in an unforgettable trip. Some of the more affordable tickets even have an open-air car for the scenic train ride, with options to upgrade to coach and first class available. These Bryson City train rides are certain to make lots of memories.
The Nantahala Gorge Excursion takes guests over 44 miles to the Nantahala Gorge and back. Scenic views are plenty on this trip. You’ll see the Little Tennessee and Nantahala Rivers and travel across Fontana Lake surrounded by the mountains. This trip is 4.5 hours long, and a Standard Coach Adult ticket starts around $59.
The Tuckasegee River Excursion is a little shorter at 32 miles round trip and four hours total. Guests will see vast meadows and old railroad towns as they travel along the Tuckasegee River. Plus, you’ll pass by the set of The Fugitive starring Harrison Ford during this train ride. A Standard Coach Adult ticket starts around $59.
To purchase your tickets, call 800.872.4681 to utilize the Kids Ride Free deal.
Where to Stay Near the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad
Use the map below to find the perfect place to stay near the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad
Through an affiliate relationship with Stay22, Kidding Around earns when you book through this map.
More places to stay
There are plenty of cool places to stay in the area, but we recommend Sky Ridge Yurts, a beautiful little village of comfortable and spacious yurts about 20 minutes from the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad and on the edge of the Nantahala forest.
Interior of Yurt at Sky Ridge Yurts
Or if you really want a memorable experience, stay in a renovated 1960s caboose at Buffalo Creek Vacations– on a bison farm! It sleeps five people and has a full bathroom, kitchen, and living area. Plus, it has bison that freely roam the property.
Caboose rentals at Buffalo Creek Vacations
Other Things to Do in Bryson City
In Bryson City, train culture is huge. But so is the great outdoors! Bryson City, NC is a beautiful spot with lots to do but during the summer, there is almost an endless number of things to do with your family.
The Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC) is fantastic for families. You can go whitewater rafting down the Nantahala River there (kids need to be at least 7 years old and 60 pounds), which is quite the adventure and something the Nantahala Outdoor Center is known for. But if you have smaller kids, you can also go tubing and enjoy the area. Next to the restaurant is a shallow area of the river perfect for wading as well. You can also pick up part of the Appalachian Trail there if you want to try it out.
You can also go tubing at Deep Creek which is at the entrance on the North Carolina side of the Smoky Mountains. There are several outfitters that offer cheap options for tubing. Or you could bring your own tubes, drive into the park, and follow the crowd to where most people put their tubes. There aren’t really any rapids so it’s great for smaller kids but it’s really cold!
Another great tubing spot is in nearby Cherokee, NC at Smoky Mountain Tube & Raft. Ages 5 and up are able to tube.
You can also hike the Deep Creek Loop at the same entrance to the park, a trail that has three waterfalls. It’s an easy hike about two miles long.
If you love animals, history, and natural beauty, you may get a glimpse of the elk at the Oconaluftee Visitor Center, about a 30-minute drive from Bryson City. There is an interesting homestead you can tour there and be sure to do the Junior Ranger Program at the visitor’s center. Elk are usually there in the mornings and late afternoon.
Also in nearby Cherokee, NC, Mingo Falls is a beautiful waterfall to see. It’s a really short hike, just a third of a mile, but it does have a lot of steps. The falls are worth it!
Think your child would like to visit Takeoff Mini Golf for a plane ride for their birthday? This is such a unique birthday party package sure to make any kid soar with delight.
Birthday parties give me anxiety. I’m not one of those moms that likes to plan them so when the opportunity comes along for a turnkey birthday party, count me in. Thankfully, a lot of businesses around the Upstate totally understand moms like me and have countless options for awesome birthday parties where parents have to do nothing but show up. Thank you to all of them!
But one birthday party package is extra special and that one is offered at super cool Takeoff Mini-Golf right next to Runway Park in downtown Greenville.
Inside: A local mom visits Athens, Georgia, and shares all the details on how to plan a budget-conscious family trip to the area!
Have you considered Athens, GA for a family getaway? Athens, GA is a small city that packs quite the punch for budget-conscious families looking to enjoy something new. If your family is looking for a fun place to go for a getaway that is budget-friendly, fun, and entertaining for the whole family, let me introduce you to Athens, Georgia. There are a lot of reasons to love Athens – which I’ll tell you all about – but especially for families looking to stretch their dollars while on vacation, this is absolutely a fantastic destination.
Think you need a big budget for a fun family vacation? Think again.
Athens, Georgia might just be your next favorite getaway—and it’s only a couple hours from the Upstate! 🎒
We sent a local mom to explore all the best kid-friendly spots in this artsy, affordable college town. From interactive museums and FREE zoos to playgrounds with three-story slides, this place delivers fun without blowing your travel fund.
🛏️ Where to stay 🎨 Free activities 🍽️ Where to eat & treat 🌳 Outdoor adventures
Want the full scoop? Read on.
About Athens, GA
Athens, Georgia is the state’s smallest county but it packs a punch even so. It’s home to the University of Georgia and the Dawgs but also is rife with culture, art, food, gardens, awesome playgrounds, and places for kids of all ages to enjoy themselves.
Athens is under two hours from the Upstate, an hour north of Atlanta, and a little over an hour from Helen, Georgia. While it is a city, it’s by no means anywhere near as large as the Atlanta metro area, yet it has an astounding number of things to do, tasty places to eat, and an array of activities for families.
The arts are a big part of Athens, and I was amazed to find so many free things to do to really enjoy that culture in the city.
Where to Stay in Athens, GA
We stayed at the Homewood Suites by Hilton in Athens, a beautiful hotel with one and two-bedroom suites. All of them have kitchens!
We stayed in a spacious one-bedroom suite that had comfortable queen beds, a living area with a pullout couch, and a small kitchen. It was perfect for my two kids and I and would certainly work for a larger family as well. The hotel can accommodate adjoining rooms and is pet-friendly.
The hotel is centrally located to restaurants and entertainment. We walked to almost every place we ate at and we didn’t drive more than 15 minutes to any place we ventured off to. The hotel is within walking distance of the University of Georgia campus and stadium.
You can play shuffleboard or pool in the game room and there is a full bar area downstairs to have an adult beverage. Coffee and tea are served for free in the lobby all day and the hotel offers free breakfast every morning from 6-9 am on weekdays and 7-10 am on weekends. They had a large variety of breakfast foods like yogurt, cereal, bagels, English muffins, eggs, bacon, grits, and fruit. My kids really loved it.
Your stay includes free wifi and a Wednesday social. Parking is an extra fee of $18/night. You can either self-park or use their valet service.
750 E Broad Street, Athens, GA 706.548.3500
What to do in Athens
Georgia Museum of Art
I’m an art lover. When I lived in Washington, DC, I spent so much time at the National Gallery of Art and loved every second. This Museum of Art in Georgia on the campus of the University of Georgia is seriously on par with the one in DC, just smaller. It is so beautiful in design but also has more than 20 galleries that consist of all kinds of art like oil paintings, sculptures, and even silver spoons and trays and armor and medals. So neat.
I was totally blown away. They have all varieties of art also like impressionist art, modern art, Renannaise art, everything. All the staff were so helpful and kind. One tipped off my daughter that she could open one of the drawers under an exhibit of armor and swords to find medals from royalty. It was so cool!
They also have Backpack Tours for kids, which can be checked out at the front desk. These include activity cards, touring tips, and some goodies. While the museum is free, they do ask that you reserve tickets online for a time slot. Parking is free as well. We spent about an hour and 15 minutes there.
90 Carlton St, Athens, GA Hours are Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday from 10 am – 5 pm, Thursday from 10 am – 9 pm, and Sunday from 1-5 pm. Closed on Mondays.
Bear Hollow Zoo & Memorial Park
A free zoo with bears, owls, gators, and snakes? It exists and it’s at the Bear Hollow Zoo in Athens, GA. This zoo is small, perfect for little legs, although we only saw adults when we went on a Friday afternoon! The zoo houses rescued animals and is nice and shaded.
They have black bears, river otters, a bald eagle, turkeys, snakes, and other native animals. My kids and I really loved the owls – the Screech Owl was seriously the cutest little thing, but the Great Horned Owl and Barred Owl were beautiful as well.
You probably won’t need more than an hour here, but if your kids love to go slowly in zoos and spend time hanging out with their favorite animals, you may be there longer. There is also a small play area and lake with ducks you can feed. Over the summer, you can swim at Memorial Park Pool, located right next to the zoo where the restrooms are. See below for details on hours.
293 Gran Ellen Drive, Athens, GA Open daily 9 am – 5 pm
World of Wonder Playground
This enormous playground has ten slides, including a three-story one (which I totally tried out myself) plus several climbing apparatuses and a spinning rope tower.
There are several swings, including ones where the parent/big sibling can swing facing a baby. Those are cool. There is also a handicap swing as well as a ramp to provide access to the elevated parts of the playground geared for smaller kids plus ADA access to one of the spinning things on the playground for bigger kids.
Some kids brought small bikes and scooters to ride around the paved trail that circles the enclosed playground. For more adventurous families, there are a few trails, one that is nice and shaded, in the park.
One thing I really appreciated was the many areas of shade over the playground equipment and over the seating areas for parents. It was much appreciated since the day we went, the temperature had already climbed to the 80s in the morning.
There are bathrooms at the park and admission is free.
325 Whit Davis Road, Athens, GA Monday-Friday 8 am – sunset Saturday-Sunday 9 am – sunset
The State Botanical Gardens of Georgia
As a garden, flower, and plant lover, I was excited to check out the Botanical Gardens. I’ve somehow managed to convince my kids that botany is cool so they were also excited to see what was in store for us there. Turns out, there were a lot of neat things to explore here. There were hidden gems – even hidden playgrounds – all over the gardens. I wrote a full review of the State Botanical Gardens of Georgia because there’s a lot to say about it!
There is no admission fee to the Botanical Gardens.
2450 S Milledge Ave, Athens, GA Open daily 8 am – 7 pm
Sandy Creek Park
Sandy Creek Park has it all: a playground, shaded picnic areas, a lake with boat rentals, 28,000 square feet of sandy beach, and trails. It’s a great spot to cool off during the summer and walk the trails during the cooler months. It’s only 15 minutes outside of downtown Athens. There is a $2/person fee for daily entry.
400 Bob Holman Rd, Athens, GA Hours are Tuesday – Sunday from 7 am – 8:30 pm and closed on Mondays.
Where to Eat in Athens
The Rook & Pawn
If you love board games, you will never want to leave the Rook and Pawn in Athens, GA. The cafe is counter service only with several options for sandwiches, salads, coffee, and drinks. I got the Monte Cristo sandwich ($12) while my kids got the grilled cheese with carrots and ranch ($6) and the pita pizza with bacon ($6). Everything was delicious but I think the real fun was in the huge wall of board games to choose from. We ended up playing a road trip geography game that was appropriate for my kids’ ages and had so much fun.
To play the games, adults ages 13+ are charged $7. Kids are free as long as they are with a paying adult.
294 W Washington Street, Suite 300, Athens, GA Sunday-Thursday 11 am – 11 pm Friday-Saturday 11 am – 1 am
Mama’s Boy
Mama’s Boy is known for its made-from-scratch breakfast meals like Biscuits & Gravy, Georgia Peach French Toast, and Strawberry Lemonade. Don’t miss the Strawberry Lemonade. I got it for my kids and was really bummed I hadn’t ordered one for myself after trying theirs! My kids both had the biscuit sandwich with egg and cheese and I had a roasted garden vegetable bowl over grits with poached eggs that were perfectly cooked. It was delicious. The biscuits are soft and fluffy with just the right amount of sweetness.
They serve breakfast all day as well as lunch and are counter-service only, so they don’t take reservations. They have two locations. Highly recommend!
197 Oak Street, Athens, GA 8851 Macon Hwy, Suite 403, Athens, GA Open daily 7 am – 2:30 pm, closed major holidays
Cali ‘n Titos
Cali ‘n Titos was my favorite place that we ate at for a few reasons: the food was amazing, they have an outdoor play area for kids, and the music and decor were just really fun.
The food is full of Latin flavors like cilantro, lime, and some spicy elements if you want them. We ordered the chips & queso, which was devoured pretty fast given how my kids and I probably could have just eaten the queso with a spoon because it was so good. We had the veggie quesadilla (huge), fish tacos, and fried yuca. The quesadilla and yuca were our favorites next to the chips and queso. A fellow diner suggested the empanadas, but we had already ordered too much food by then!
The play area is perfect – it has a slide, a boat kids can climb in, and there is sand everywhere for them to dig in. You order at the counter and then choose a picnic table anywhere you want and servers bring out the food to you. It’s very casual and fun and would be my first choice if we were to go back to Athens!
1427 S Lumpkin Street, Athens, GA 1245 Cedar Shoals Drive, Athens, GA
Where to Get Treats
Alumni Cookie Dough | 480 N Thomas Street, Athens, GA Amazing edible cookie dough plus milkshakes and cookie dough/ice cream combos. They offer keto, vegan, and gluten-free cookie dough as well. They also have a really cool angel wing mural in the shop where you can take a photo, post to social media, and get 10% off your bill.
A delightful new addition to Athens’ culinary landscape, Kilwins brings a tempting array of chocolates, toffee, ice cream, and more. Since opening its doors in 2024, this charming sweets shop has quickly captured the hearts of locals and visitors alike. Don’t miss their signature treat: “the perfect” caramel apple, a must-try that showcases Kilwins’ dedication to quality and flavor.
Condor Chocolates | 1658 S Lumpkin Street, Athens, GA We really wanted to try this place but we got there after they closed at 6 pm. Next time! They have bean-to-bar chocolates, truffles, gelato, and hot chocolate.
Bubble Cafe | 247 E Broad St, Athens, GA Bubble tea is definitely a thing in Athens and we passed several places before I finally gave into my curiosity and tried one. I had to ask the very kind employee to explain it all to me and for suggestions of what to order. I ended up with taro tea and strawberry bobas (little balls of strawberry goodness). It was amazing. I gave my kids a taste and they had seriously too much fun trying to get the bobas with the straw. Bubble Cafe also offers poke bowls, rice bowls, and udon soup plus several other kinds of tea.
Where to Cool Off
No pools or splash pads were open when we visited Athens, Georgia but during the summer months, from Memorial Day to the end of July and some weekends after, they are all open. All pools and splash pads are closed on Mondays for maintenance. Admission is $1/per person per visit or get a summer pass for $20/person or $40/family of four and swim/splash all summer long.
Walker Park Splash Pad 200 Trail Creek Street, Athens, GA Open Tuesdays-Sundays 10 am – 5:30 pm
Bishop Park Pool 705 Sunset Drive, Athens, GA Closed for repairs during 2023 season
Heard Park Pool 400 McKinley Drive, Athens, GA Open Tuesdays – Fridays and Sundays from 1-5:30 pm and Saturdays Noon – 5:30 pm
Lay Park Pool 297 Hoyt Street, Athens, GA Open Tuesdays – Fridays and Sundays from 1-5:30 pm and Saturdays Noon – 5:30 pm
Memorial Park Pool 293 Gran Ellen Drive, Athens, GA Open Tuesdays – Fridays and Sundays from 1-5:30 pm and Saturdays Noon – 5:30 pm
Rocksprings Park Pool and Splash Pad 291 Henderson Extension, Athens, GA Open Tuesdays – Fridays and Sundays from 1-5:30 pm and Saturdays Noon – 5:30 pm
Fall in Athens, GA
As the air turns crisp and the leaves begin to change, Athens, Georgia, offers several special Fall season events. October offers a blend of adventure, music, and celebration. Whether you’re into cycling, live performances, or Halloween festivities, there’s something for everyone.
Here are the highlights you won’t want to miss:
26th Annual Athens to Savannah Ride, October 23-26, 2025: Join in the celebration of a quarter-century of cycling with the 26th Annual Athens to Savannah Ride! Gravel cyclists will embark on a four-day journey starting October 23rd, while road cyclists can join in for a three-day ride beginning October 24.
Riders will traverse the beautiful landscapes of rural Georgia, from the rugged Piedmont to the sandy Coastal Plain, all in support of the Georgia Hi-Lo Trail. Riders will be helping to fund the completion of this 211-mile trail that boosts economic growth in rural communities.
Photo Credit: Visit Athens
Historic Athens Porchfest, October 19: Experience one of the Southeast’s most unique fall traditions—Historic Athens Porchfest! Imagine 200 live performances taking place across 150 porches in a single, music-filled afternoon. This free event transforms seven historic neighborhoods into an open-air concert venue, showcasing the heart of Athens’ renowned music scene. No tickets, no fees—just an unforgettable day filled with live music, community spirit, and the genuine charm of Athens.
Wild Rumpus Halloween Parade and Spectacle, October 25 (always the last Saturday of October): Prepare for Athens’ most imaginative Halloween celebration—the 17th Annual Wild Rumpus! Often described as Athens’ own Mardi Gras, this is not just a Halloween parade; it’s a spectacular display of creativity and self-expression. Downtown Athens will come alive with thousands of costumed revelers in a dazzling showcase of fun and festivity.
Everyone is welcome to join in—no tickets required—just pure Halloween magic. Gather your friends, don your most outrageous costume, and march through The Classic City in this unforgettable, free celebration!
Photo Credit: Visit Athens
Christmas in Athens, GA
Winter Wonderlights
Begins in November every year and runs until January, but dates can be expected to be announced in the fall of 2025.
Step into a holiday fantasy at the State Botanical Garden of Georgia, where sparkling lights transform the garden into a glowing winter wonderland.
Cozy up by open fires to roast s’mores, sip on hot cocoa, and enjoy the magic along a half-mile trail that’s perfect for all ages.
And, be sure to check out the WonderLights Disco Nights —a lively mix of groovy tunes and stunning lights for a fun, new twist on holiday tradition. $15 per person, free for kids ages 3 and under Winter Wonderlights Website
Lace-up your skates and glide into winter fun at the area’s largest ice rink, located at the 440 Foundry Pavilion. Whether you’re planning a family outing, a date night, or a group get-together, it’s a perfect way to embrace the season. With plenty of room for skaters of all levels—whether you’re mastering your spins or just starting to skate—this rink offers a fun experience for everyone.
On December 5, downtown Athens will light up with the annual Parade of Lights, featuring the theme “Run, Run Rudolph”. Expect themed floats, festive music, and a classic tree-lighting ceremony with none other than Santa himself. Be sure to cheer for your favorite local floats, which will be competing for fun prizes like “Most Original Float” and the prestigious “Mayor’s Award.”
Holiday Markets
Athens is a creative hub, and during the holidays, it’s the place to find unique, handmade treasures. From the Beechwood Holiday Market and its Tree Lighting Festival (November 30) to the Indie South Fair and West Broad Holiday Market, there’s something for everyone. Explore a variety of handcrafted gifts, festive décor, local treats, and more as Athens celebrates its amazing local talent and holiday spirit.
Are you looking for a nail salon in Greenville? Our readers have provided us with all their favorite Greenville nail salons. Look through the list and find the perfect place to get your hands pampered.
If there is a way to get in some quick R&R without going too far, a nail salon is a great choice. Whether it’s just a quick manicure or a relaxing spa pedicure, taking the time to escape for some pampering is a tempting option.
Reader’s Favorite Nail Salons in Greenville, SC
Here are the favorite salons in the area where you are most likely to find a Greenville mom trying to escape everyday madness for a few minutes of alone time:
2435 East North Street #1102, Greenville | 864.268.4103 Oscar Nails & Spa is well-loved by the Kidding Around Community. Their prices are affordable, the salon is well-maintained, and the staff is loved.
Oscars. Because you can make an appointment get excellent service and it doesn’t take too long !
Caron S
Mai at Oscar nails!!! Hands down the best! I’ve been to so many in the area and I do hair and they never last but specially Mai at Oscars knows how to make them last 3 sometimes even 4 weeks for me!!!
59 Woodruff Industrial Lane, Greenville, SC | 864.248.0685 If you are looking for nail design, this is the place. The Sunflower Nails Facebook page is full of examples of fabulous nail art. You’ll see everything from classic designs to bows and literal art on the nails.
I love the atmosphere and people at Sunflower Nails! Shoutout to my favorite nail tech Kathy 💕
Becca V
Came to same sunflower is always my go to! They are very consistent! And very nice staff!
2815 Woodruff Road, Simpsonville, SC | 864.509.1477 Readers say that the staff are friendly and they take their time when doing your nails.
5 Forks Nails. Vee is the BEST! Actually I don’t know that I’ve ever had anyone that wasn’t great! The attention to detail and they take the time to get to know their clients!
401 East Stone Ave Ste A, Greenville, SC | 864.252.4716 Ooh! U’ve Got Nails in Greenville is said to be managed by a talented technician, who will give you more of a spa-like treatment.
Ooh U’ve Got Nails Greenville, Mimi Vang is amazing. Her spa like treatment, professional mannerisms, she is truly an asset to her trade. She goes above and beyond to make sure you leave happy and feel pampered. I won’t go anywhere else and Blessed I found her.
1607 Laurens Road, Greenville, SC 29607 | 864.236.7792 Omnia Nail Studio is a great option based on a reader’s recommendation if you are looking for nail art.
Omnia nail studio. They are always on time and ready to go at your appointment time. They can do any inspiration picture you bring but better. Their attention to detail is top tier. Also their nails last foreverrrrr.
401 River Street, Greenville, SC | 864.438.1465 Our readers say they love Nails on the River because they use non-toxic products and there isn’t the thick, chemical smell that many nail salons have. The salon is appointment only, and you can make an appointment online.
Nails on the River is THE place. Non toxic, no horrific smells, awesome women owned/staff. I hadn’t had a mani/pedi in 4 years bc of issues with toxins, until this place came along
Lorey M H
It’s a very nice and quiet space, I can make an appointment online, and fairly priced.
My go-to is Mary’s Nails. The girls are great at designs. Anything I bring to my nail tech Avon, she can do, but everyone is great! Friendly service and reasonably priced!
I personally like Tips & Toes off Woodruff Rd. They’re clean and professional. You can walk-in or book an appointment online. Also, they serve a complimentary beverage with nail service.
The new Compass by Margaritaville in Pigeon Forge, TN is the latest addition to the brand’s hotels and one you won’t want to miss if you’re heading out that way. It has both indoor and outdoor waterparks, a huge free breakfast, and amazing family suites.
Thanks to Compass by Margaritaville for hosting us so we could write this review. All opinions are our own.
Any Margaritaville property I’ve ever stayed at has always exceeded my expectations and Compass by Margaritaville is no different. Walking through the lobby is an invitation to drop all your stress at the door and get on island time, even in the middle of the Smoky Mountains just three hours from Greenville, SC.
I loved this new hotel – as did my daughters (ages 10 and 14) – for the waterparks, delicious food, and comfortable and spacious suite. Read on to learn why this could be your next hotel destination in Pigeon Forge.
Can you imagine yourself sitting here with a margarita?
Compass by Margaritaville: The Rooms
We stayed in one of the two-bedroom family suites, which is amazingly spacious. There is a separate room for kids with two twin beds, a dresser, and television. The door even closes.
Down the hall is a table for dining, a Keurig with coffee pods, a counter top, and a mini-fridge. The bathroom is cavernous. There is a beautiful glass shower with a rain shower head, double sinks, and a tub. The main bedroom has two queen beds, a closet, a dresser, and a large television.
The kids room in the family suite
I felt so relaxed here. It was nice to be able to spread out and for the kids and I to each have our own space. The hotel offers a variety of other rooms to choose from but this one was just incredible. It’s decorated in the typical blues and teals of the Margaritaville brand.
Compass by Margaritaville: The Waterparks
There are few things my kids love more than waterparks. They were thrilled to learn this hotel has two of them: one indoor and one outdoor.
Indoor waterpark
The indoor one has a large pool and small waterslide plus a great space for toddlers to run around and play in a pirate-themed splash pad. It’s adorable.
The outdoor waterpark has an infinity pool, those cool chairs where you can sit in the pool and in a lounge chair at the same time, a waterslide, pool, zero entry toddler area, lazy river, and hot tub.
The weather wasn’t particularly favorable when we went but we were determined to try everything out and ended up having such a great time. The lazy river and waterslide were our favorites. Don’t think for a second I didn’t go down the waterslide – I went down several times! It was a blast. I feel like there is something for everyone at these waterparks. Little kids will love the splash pads and zero entry pool while tweens will like the slides and teens can also play on the slides and hang out at the lazy river and infinity pool.
Part of the outdoor waterpark
They have the bar and corn hole turf area right next to the bar so you can order up margaritas, hummus, or pretzels right from the pool. You literally don’t need to go anywhere all day.
The waterparks are open daily 8 am – 11 pm.
Compass by Margaritaville: The Breakfast
Honestly, the breakfast here probably deserves its own story. I took one look and was sad I wasn’t hungry enough to eat everything in front of me. This isn’t your typical hotel continental breakfast.
They have cereal, bagels, French toast, omelets, fruit, yogurt, hard-boiled eggs, bacon, sausage, salsa, some kind of pepper dish, and pastries. They have cranberry, apple, and orange juice plus coffee. Their pancake/French toast bar has every topping you could ever want.
Best hotel breakfast
I didn’t know where to start. The only other hotel breakfast that comes close to this is at another Margaritaville property I fell in love with a couple years ago: Camp Margaritaville in Pigeon Forge. I remember a good hotel breakfast and this one was excellent. I wish I could have tried everything here.
The best part about the breakfast is that it comes free with your stay at the hotel. Breakfast is from 6:30-10 am daily. We ended up eating enough for breakfast that we skipped lunch one of the days there and had an early dinner. That’s how fantastic this breakfast is. I mean, you could probably just stay here for the breakfast and be happy.
Compass by Margaritaville: The Game Room
I caught sight of the arcade game and foosball table before my kids did so it was fun to see their reaction when they finally saw it. They all but ran over to check it out. The game room is right off the lobby of the hotel and besides two arcade games where I taught my kids how to play Tetris, the room also has board games and a shuffleboard table. I had to Google shuffleboard rules so yes, we learned how to play while there. It was fantastic.
My girls indulged in a lively game of Monopoly while I ordered hummus and the Bavarian soft pretzel (since that is by far one of my biggest food weaknesses). Both were delicious and my daughters even ate vegetables with the hummus. Island time worked out well.
We had a great time hanging out with each other and enjoying the comfortable chairs and tranquil atmosphere. Margaritaville has completely nailed this whole relaxation thing.
One other thing to mention is that there is a complete fitness room at the hotel. We didn’t use it because my daughters were too young but I wish I could have gotten in a good workout there. They have weights, treadmills, bikes, and other equipment. You can easily take your workouts on the road here.
Compass by Margaritaville: The Location
Let’s talk location. It’s perfect really. The hotel is right off the main strip in Pigeon Forge so literally within a short distance of most of the cool stuff there like the Island at Pigeon Forge, Dollywood, all the dinner shows, and other attractions.
The hotel is about 25 minutes from the Sugarlands Visitor Center inside the Great Smoky Mountains National Park so if you want to go hiking, you’re pretty close to many wonderful trails.
There is also Gorilla Tacos literally right outside the doors of the hotel. I didn’t try it this trip but I have to say the menu looked pretty good. Next time!
Booking Your Room at Compass at Margaritaville
Cost of the rooms depend on size and time of year. I personally think summer is the best due to the waterparks but really, anytime in this area is great.
You can check prices and book your trip at the Compass at Margaritaville website. Be sure to check for special offers.
Inside: One family visits Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show on vacation in Pigeon Forge, TN, and shares their experience, real review, with tips for a great visit.
If cheering on pirates as they perform acrobatic tricks and engage in sword fighting while eating a delicious meal sounds fun, then you’re in for a real treat at the Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee! Kristina took her kids and has the full review.
Quick Summary: Pirates Voyage
Kristina and her kids recently checked it out and had an amazing time! Here’s what you need to know:
Incredible high-diving stunts and sword fights ⚔️
A full dinner menu that even picky eaters loved 🍗
South Pacific Celebration featuring fire artists 🔥
Adorable animal performers 🦭
Tips: Book early, go hungry, and try for side seats!
My kids and I love live theater and enjoy awesome food so why not put those two together and try out the Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show? This was a show I had been wanting to go see for years and on a recent trip to Pigeon Forge, TN, I walked the plank and bought tickets for us. So is it worth the price? Read on to find out.
Part of the show
About Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show
Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show is owned by Dolly Parton, as are many attractions in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. She’s a saint in these parts (I love her, too though). The pirate show is, you guessed it, full of pirates. But there’s so much more than pirates.
There are mermaids and animals and birds and music and tricks. It’s a fast-paced show with lots of action, including several dives into the water which makes up parts of the stage, sword-fighting, acrobatics, and adorable sea lions.
New to the show in Pigeon Forge is the South Pacific Celebration. I think this was actually my favorite part. It includes amazing music, a fire artist, and super cool drums that looked like the drummer was making music by hitting water. It was really neat.
The show overall is about 1.5 hours long.
The Food at Pirate’s Voyage
I know food at dinner shows can sometimes be meh and average. This wasn’t one of those shows. You can view the menu online and they do have accommodations for those with special diets.
We were offered a variety of sodas, sweet tea, lemonade, and water. Our server was fantastic and worked so hard to get everything out on time and served us fast. He had refills available whenever we wanted as well.
Part of our meal at the show
First up was a soft biscuit with creamy vegetable soup that even my vegetable-hating teen loved. The main course was huge: it was fried chicken with a side of corn on the cob, mac & cheese, and ham. That fried chicken was especially tasty and one of my daughters said it was the cheesiest mac & cheese she’s ever had.
Dessert was either an apple turnover or coconut chocolate cake. Everything was delicious. My daughters had to take home some of their meals since it was that big. Overall, this was a great meal.
The Show
We really enjoyed how fast and fun the show is. The storyline is that the two dueling pirates – the Crimson and Sapphire pirates – have to fight to get the dead pirate’s treasure. The audience is split between the two colors and cheer for their pirates to win it all.
I was impressed with the actors because they had to know how to dive (from high places no less), do acrobatics, sing, and dance. They were all so talented.
The South Pacific addition to the show is fantastic. The lights are dimmed as drums play and an actor (maybe an actor – he looked like a legit South Pacific person) came out who looked like he belonged in the movie Moana. He was the fire artist who spun a stick on fire like nobody’s business.
The other actors played drums that looked like they were made by hitting water. There were dancers and more fire. It was awesome.
The awesome pirates
I’m not about to spoil the show for you but sea lions and swimming dogs are involved in Pirate’s Voyage, much to the delight of the audience.
My daughters (ages 10 and 14) and I really enjoyed the high divers and the pirate competition towards the end of the show. Overall, the entertainment value is high at Pirate’s Voyage.
Tips: Enjoying Pirates Voyage
Here are a few tips on getting the most out of the show:
Book early: if you have the date you want, book the show. I waited too long and the value tickets were sold out so I had to pay more for the time I wanted.
Go hungry: you’ll be getting a lot of food so go hungry.
Kids will love this: I saw kids of all ages there. My tween and teen really enjoyed it but I saw small kids there who were awed as well.
Try to get seats on the sides: if you can get seats on the sides of the arena, those would be better than in the corners where we sat. The poles on the stage blocked some of our views.
Tickets to Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show
The show lasts about an 1.5 hours total and you’ll pick up your tickets when you get there.
Ticket prices are not inexpensive. Ages 10+ are considered adults so they pay the adult ticket price and kids are ages 3-9.
Ticket prices depend on the time. During busier times of the year, there are three shows most days: 3 pm, 6 pm, and 8:30 pm. The most expensive show I saw listed was the 6 pm show. Ticket prices start at $59.99 (~$71 with tax) and go up to around $81 (~$95 with tax).
There are also VIP tickets which gets you the best seats at the show, meet & greet with cast members, and a cheering flag. This costs an extra $28/person.
Pirates Voyage also offers Animal Encounters before some of the shows were guests get up close with the animals in the show. The admission for Animal Encounters is $74/person plus tax.
So Was the Show Worth It?
That’s the question, right? The cost was high for this experience but the memories made were worth it. My kids and I really enjoyed the show, the food, and the atmosphere. If you’ve got room in your budget for this amazing dinner show, then go for it!
Looking for a fun and unique adventure for your family that includes kayaking, hiking, or climbing? The Red River Gorge in Kentucky is the place to go.
Ever the adventurer, the Red River Gorge had been on my list of places to visit within driving distance of Greenville, SC for awhile. Some of my hiking friends had been and they loved it so I knew I had to go explore what was so special about this place. And wow, the Red River Gorge is incredible with its sandstone arches, caves, and unique experiences.
I took my daughters (ages 10 and 14) for a few days full of adventure where we hiked, kayaked, and explored so many neat things in the area. We all agreed it was an awesome trip and already can’t wait to return.
Natural Bridge State Park
About the Red River Gorge
The Red River Gorge was formed in a similar way to the Grand Canyon – by a river. And it took a very long time. But the results are incredible. There are about 150 sandstone arches as a result of rivers running through the gorge over millions of years. There are only more arches anywhere in the United States at Arches National Park in Utah.
Much of the Red River Gorge is located within or adjacent to the Daniel Boone National Forest and designated at the Red River Gorge Geological Area. There are sandstone arches, caves, cliffs, and waterfalls. Hiking through this area is so unique due to its geological features. It’s absolutely breath-taking in such a different way than the mountains are to us in the Upstate.
Another cool thing about the Red River Gorge is that it is a designated national archeological area due to the artifacts found within the cliff dwellings, thought to house indigenous peoples.
What to do at the Red River Gorge
There are so many amazing things to do at the Red River Gorge. We went for the kayaking tour at Gorge Underground and for the unique hiking trails. But many people come for rock climbing, kayaking the Kentucky River, exploring the arches, and even zip lining.
Hiking
We tried to fit it as many trails as possible during our three-day trip. Thankfully, there are miles and miles of marked trails within the Red River Gorge and many are very short. I had a list of places I wanted to go before we left and stopped at the Visitors Center for a helpful map to plan them out a little better. Highly recommend this option.
Natural Bridge Trial (Original Trail)
This is a short, two-mile out and back trail that leads to one of the most popular arches in the Gorge. It’s a leg-burner on the way up but totally worth it. There are plenty of spots to stop and take a break so definitely go for it. It’s situated within the Natural Bridge State Park. No dogs are allowed. You can hike this trail or take the SkyLift.
Tight squeeze at Natural Bridge State Park
Double Arch – Courthouse Rock – Auxier Ridge Trail
I thought this was about four miles total but it was closer to seven miles. Whoops. Double Arch is super cool and beautiful and we hung out there for awhile. Then it was onto Courthouse Rock, which had gorgeous views. We followed the Auxier Ridge Trail back to our car but if you don’t want to be a paranoid mess since that trail has significant drops, you could go back down Double Arch Trail to the parking lot. We really liked this trail.
Double Arch
Princess Arch
Princess Arch is a beautiful arch that kind of looks like a house for the Flintstones. It’s a short half-mile round trip hike that you can add onto the Copperas Falls hike as it’s in the same area.
Copperas Falls
While I have seen my share of beautiful waterfalls, this waterfall is pretty close to the top of my list of the most amazing waterfalls I’ve seen. You can walk behind this waterfall as it pours over the ledge of a huge cave. When the water is higher, you can definitely swim but the water is quite chilly. It’s a must-do on your trip to the Red River Gorge and only a 3.1 mile hike that follows the creek to the waterfall.
Copperas Falls
Rock Bridge & Creation Falls
Honestly, after seeing Copperas Falls and all the other waterfalls I’ve seen in my life, I thought this one was going to be lame. I was totally wrong. It was so cool and I wish it were summer when we went because there’s a huge beach and small cave at the waterfall. Perfect for a summer day. And the Rock Bridge is the actual only “bridge” because it goes over water. It is just gorgeous!
Rock Climbing
I don’t go rock climbing but one of our editors here at Kidding Around is an awesome climber and really wants to get out to the Gorge to test her skills. There are more than 4,000 routes on the sandstone cliffs in the Gorge. Here’s an overview of them.
The Gorge Underground
This is an experience that is worth the trip out to the Gorge alone. You can go kayaking or take a boat tour in the miles of waterways in an underground mine. It is one of the coolest things I’ve done and my kids loved it. Read our Gorge Underground review.
Zip Lining & Off Roading
If you’re in the mood for some more extreme adventures in the Red River Gorge, you can choose zip lining at Red River Gorge Ziplining.
There are also off-roading companies that will take you all over the place bumping around till your heart’s content. Find them here.
Nada Tunnel
The Nada Tunnel looks like a smaller version of the Stumphouse Tunnel in Walhalla – except you can drive through it. If you’re like me and have a GPS that loves to give you incorrect directions, you’ll drive through this tunnel no less than four times. It was cool every single time though.
The tunnel is only 12 feet wide, 13 feet high and 900 feet long. You have to wait for any other cars to go through before driving through it. It’s very tight but oh-so-cool. The tunnel dates back to the early 1900s when it was constructed for the Dana Lumber Company.
It only took a year to create through blasting limestone and using tools. This was no easy task but these people were the epitome of hard workers full of grit and determination. The Nada Tunnel is often called the Gateway to the Red River Gorge and is a must-see when you visit.
Where to Eat
There aren’t a lot of options for restaurants but we did try Miguel’s Pizza, which lived up to all the hype I heard about it before we went to the Gorge.
I found it to be tasty and affordable with generous portions. We got a salad and pizza and both were great. We had pizza for at least one more meal.
Miguel’s Pizza
We also had delicious ice cream at the Ice Cream Shop at the Red River Gorge near the Natural Bridge State Park. It was so good and pretty inexpensive. The trading post next door has great fudge.
Where to Stay
There are a lot of options for lodging: campgrounds, cabins, RV parks, and resorts. We rented a bare bones cabin at a campground. It was fine but I think there are better options, especially for the price we paid. Google campgrounds or look at other lodging options at the Red River Gorge website.
A good place to stay that is central to trails and activities is the Natural Bridge State Park Resort. They have campsites and a lodge. There are tons of trails there as well.
Rock Bridge
Need to Know Before You Go
Here are some tips to help you make the most of your trip to the Red River Gorge.
Plan ahead: Do some research beforehand on trails and attractions to make the most of your visit.
Book the Gorge Underground: This is a popular attraction so you need to book ahead of time.
Go to the Visitors Center: The Red River Gorge Visitors Center has a great map to help you navigate trails.
Get groceries on your way in: There are no big stores in the Red River Gorge so be sure to hit up a grocery or supply store before you get to the Gorge.
Join a RRR Facebook group: I learned a lot from Red River Gorge hiking and visiting groups on Facebook.
Watch kids and pets: Some of the trails have steep drops so be aware of where your kids and pets are at all times. And don’t jump fences to get the perfect photo. It’s not worth your life (the local news has stories of people dying doing this).
Spend a few days: We were there for three days and it wasn’t enough. I could have stayed a week at least! I have a list of hikes I want to go back and do and places to camp and enjoy the area. It’s such a hidden gem. Stay as long as you can.
Giraffes participate voluntarily — your token grants access to the deck, but the giraffes choose whether or not they want to eat.
Summer Tip: If the heat index is 100 or up, the encounter will close early or not open.
