Are you craving pizza and looking for the best pizza in Greenville, SC? Greenville locals have told us where to find the best pizza around town. Peruse our list to find your new favorite pizza!
There are over 75,000 pizzerias in the United States and as a $36 billion a year industry, Americans are champions when it comes to pizza eating. They eat approximately 100 acres of pizza per day, which is a gorgeous picture to imagine.
The South is known for some exceptional cuisine but it’s the Northeast that takes the award for the best pizza, especially the New York/New Jersey region (I’m originally from NJ and lived in Rome for a time, which I’m proud to say makes me a pizza expert – this is the only thing I’m an expert at so let me have it). Most pizzerias claim they are NY-style pizza, which consists of a thin crust topped with a delicious tomato sauce and melted cheese.
One astute Kidding Around Greenville reader noted that when people get asked what their favorite pizza place is, it’s implied it is NY-style because “let’s face it, is the only style that really matters.” Well said, sir.
Need some ideas for fun things to do on Sunday? While having kids and keeping them entertained isn’t exactly the typical R&R of a Sunday, making memories and enjoying each other’s company are certainly on the list of desires for Sundays. So here you go – we’ve come up with two lists of 20+ things to do on Sundays split into indoor and outdoor activities. Now go have some fun and enjoy some quality time with your kids before Monday morning!
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 some sections of 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 levels of skills.
Here’s a great Hiking Guide we’ve put together to help you.
Greenville Drive
A great Sunday family activity is a baseball game at Fluor Field over the summer. They even have a playground on site 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 KA 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)
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.
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!
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.
Flying Rabbit Adventures is awesome! Read our review of this awesome ropes course near Downtown Greenville, SC.
Things to do on a Sunday: Indoor Activities
The Children’s Museum of the Upstate
Those lazy Sundays are a particularly good reason to grab a TCMU membership – it’s so easy to head over there 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 and it’s just $7 to get in or free if you’re already 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 high plus have 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.
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 of I-85 at the Gaffney Premium Outlet Mall Sunday hours: 10 am – 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.
Most Greenville Library branches are not open 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 kid’s sections.
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 (Sunday hours: 10 am – 7 pm) 1125 Woodruff Road Suite 1810, Greenville (Sunday hours: 10 am – 7 pm)
Upcountry History Museum
With awesome rotating exhibits and permanent ones about the history of the Upstate, the Upcountry History Museum is a great option for indoor fun on Sundays.
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: 1-5 pm
Bounce Houses & 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, DEFY, Urban Air, and Sky Zone are all open on Sundays. Kangaroo Jax and The Pavilion are both open on Sundays for indoor fun.
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.
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 skate outdoors in downtown Greenville right near the Peace Center. See individual sites for Sunday hours.
Ice on Main, Village Green, Greenville (only during winter)
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 areaperfect for smaller kids.
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 will find educational events, festivals, free events, and more on the calendar.
Been searching for “where to see dinosaurs near me”? Do you want to take your family somewhere to see dinosaurs? We have a list of all the places to see dinosaurs near Greenville, SC. Our list includes some fabulous places to learn about dinosaurs in North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia. All of them make a great dinosaur day trip from Upstate, SC.
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.
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.
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 mermaid tours, 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
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. Where to stay: VRBO has several condo options, like this Fripp Island Ocean Front Condo. Drive time: 4 hours
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
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
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
Spring Break Trips from Greenville: Tennessee Spring Break
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.
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.
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
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
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
Florida Spring Break: Getaway for Spring Break to Somewhere Warm
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.
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.
Trying to plan some one-on-time with your child in Greenville, SC? Writer Kristina Hernandez shares her 20 ideas for a great date with your kid. These ideas range from splurges to free outings and are appropriate for all types of families and situations! We also have some tips to make the most of your special time.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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!
Did you know you can get a FREE 3D ultrasound in Greenville, SC? Greenville Tech in Greenville, SC offers free 3D/4D ultrasounds. Spots are limited, and we tell you what you need to do to take advantage of this unique opportunity.
Photo courtesy of Greenville Tech
Expecting? Don’t miss our Guide to Baby, Maternity and Postpartum Care. It’s full of resources for families with new little ones like health care options and fun things to do with babies!
Getaway (Greenville location is here!) understands how crazy life is and why it’s so important to take time to recharge, which is why they’ve created pretty amazing places to do so, including their outpost near Greenville, SC. A Getaway house is a tiny house stocked with everything you need to unwind, relax, and enjoy nature. We checked it out and have all the details on how to get away from it all for the ultimate time to rest and relax.
Thank you to Getaway, who provided accommodations so we could do this review. All opinions are those of the author.
What is Getaway? Greenville, SC Location
Life is hectic, busy, and stressful and I think we all savor moments when we can get away from the everyday grind and connect with those we love. I do this through nature – hiking, camping, paddleboarding, biking. It’s definitely my happy place, as it is for many of us.
Getaway, a company that also savors connecting with loved ones out in nature, really gets this and has created more than a dozen outposts around the country with tiny cabins where you can rest, relax, and recharge with no agenda. In a Getaway house, nothing is distracting you, other than getting a campfire started to roast marshmallows.
The closest outpost is near Greenville, SC at Lake Hartwell. I spent a weekend there with my two daughters and it was truly incredible. I’ll tell you why right here as well as things to do in the area if you want to get out and enjoy nature, go shopping, eat some tasty food, or just relax.
Inside the Getaway cabin
How it was started
Getaway started in 2015 when Jon Staff, after leaving his stressful job in a startup and taking to the van life, figured out how essential immersing himself in nature was to his overall health. He wanted to create that same experience for as many people as possible so he founded Getaway!
The company currently has more than 20 outposts nationwide, which consist of tiny cabins meant for either two or four people and include everything you need to get away from the everyday life and reconnect with loved ones or just take some time for yourself.
What to Expect at the Getaway Greenville Location
The outpost in Greenville is one of their newest locations. The outpost is located less than an hour away at Lake Hartwell and consists of 40 cabins on 54 very private acres.
Cabins either have a queen bed or queen bunk beds and are tiny, between 140-200 square feet, but have everything you need to enjoy time away from home. Cabins are pet-friendly.
Also, Getaway has a loyalty program where you stay seven nights (they don’t need to be consecutive), and you get the next night free. This could prove useful if you travel around and look for the nearest Getaway outpost during your trip.
Getaway House: The Tiny Cabins
I just love tiny homes and the feel of having everything you need in a small, but well-thought-out space. That’s exactly what our Getaway cabin felt like.
Our cabin had two queen bunk beds, a two-burner stove, full bathroom, table with chairs, radio, pots and pans, knives, tea kettle, aluminum foil for outdoor cooking, cups, mugs, towels, soap, shampoo, conditioner, and body wash.
Outside there were four Adirondack chairs around a fire pit, a picnic table, and a provisions box with firewood ($8/bundle) and fire starters ($2) for purchase. Inside, you could also purchase for a small fee ($2) coffee, tea, and insect wipes.
I had seen photos of these cabins before I went but going there and seeing it in person was a million times better. The beds are next to a giant window that looks out into the old-growth forest so it’s like tent camping but way better and more comfortable. I love tent camping but staying at this Getaway cabin may edge it out. Plus, the hot shower and lack of bugs were fantastic.
The Thoughtful Touches
Every communication you get from Getaway aims to make your trip as seamless as possible, from booking to check-in to staying there. The email I got the day before said something like, “let this be the last email you’ll read for the next few days.” I love it. They really do try to help you in every conceivable way to truly get away for rest and relaxation.
The cabin also has a cellphone box where you can store your phone so as to not be tempted to be distracted by it. There is no wif-fi. There are books on outdoor adventures, a deck of cards, games, and printouts with questions about your goals for the time away and how to be intentional about making the most of your stay.
It was obvious that Getaway is absolutely intent on making your stay as peaceful and relaxing as possible. The customer service was great in our experience as well. I had an issue trying to get our code to work at check-in and Getaway immediately helped me out via text message.
While there are 40 cabins at this location, they are spread out so you’re not close to anyone. We visited when the leaves were all off the trees and we still couldn’t get a close look at any of our neighbors. From spring through fall, it will be even more private when the trees are fuller.
Making the Most of Your Stay
On their website, the Getaway Greenville location has a list of things to do in the area like hiking trails and places to eat as well as where the nearest grocery store is so you can plan to get what you need before you come.
Hot chocolate at the campfire
There is also a section on campfire recipes, which I most certainly checked out before we came. I ended up choosing two of the recipes on the site for inspiration for what I cooked there: campfire pizza and campfire nachos. The pizza was not as successful as the nachos but hey, I made up for it by letting my kids have an extra s’more after dinner.
I love campfire cooking even though I’m much better in an actual kitchen. But I really appreciated that Getaway’s website has so much information and helpful tips that I really didn’t need to go anywhere else.
Things to do Near the Getaway Houses at Lake Hartwell
Getaway’s Greenville location is so ideal. It’s in Oconee County, which has more than 200 waterfalls and miles and miles of hiking trails. Getting outside in nature is so easy here. The historic town of Seneca, SC is only 15 minutes away so you can go shopping and eat there if you like. There are several farms nearby as well. Here are a few things to do while you stay at Getaway.
McLadke Orchards
If you stay in the fall or winter, you’ll have plenty of opportunities for farm fun at McLadke Orchard, which is less than five minutes from the outpost. In the fall, they have a pumpkin patch, animals to play with, a hay ride, and an apple slingshot. In the winter, they have lots of Christmas activities and events.
Split Creek Farm
Known for its award-winning goat cheese, you can visit Split Creek Farm for a self-guided tour (check hours before you go), pick up some amazing fudge, and visit with baby goats.
Stroll through the beautiful gardens for free and enjoy all the pretty flowers and plants.
Denver Downs
One of our very favorite fall destinations, Denver Downs, is really close to the Getaway outpost. What a great way to spend the weekend – stay at the outpost and wear your kids and yourself out at Denver Downs during the day!
Go Antique Shopping
We checked out Yesterday’s Treasures Antique Mall in Dillard, GA on Highway 441 and had so much fun, except when I saw Lincoln logs for sale in an antique shop and felt old.
Historic Seneca
You can go shopping, dine, or just explore Historic Seneca and Ram Cat Alley. The town was founded in 1873 and there are events all the time during the warmer months.
Get Breakfast or Lunch at Dimas Bros. Cafe
We got bacon, egg, and cheese biscuits for breakfast here one morning and it was so delicious. Highly recommend. You can order Dimas Brothers online for quicker pickup.
Waterfall Chasing in Oconee County
There are so many waterfalls within a 40-minute drive of Getaway: Yellow Branch Falls, Riley Moore Falls, Isaqueena Falls (and Stumphouse Tunnel), Chau Ram County Park, Station Cove Falls, King Creek Falls. Pick a few and make a day of it.
Tallulah Gorge
Tallulah Gorge is pretty amazing and if you can go, definitely check it out. It’s an hour from Getaway and you can hike down into it via a million steps or even hike the floor of the Gorge if you are lucky enough to snag a free permit. Nearby is Toccoa Falls on the campus of Toccoa Falls College, which is an astounding 186-ft tall free-flowing waterfall.
If you’re super ambitious, you can drive an hour and 15 minutes to the Beegum Gap trailhead and hike 1.6 miles up to the Rabun Bald fire tower for 360-degrees of the mountains. It’s amazing and a great spot for sunrise or sunset – or just go when you want to and enjoy the views. We loved it.
Rabun Bald
See a Clemson Football Game
I don’t think this would qualify as a relaxing weekend but you can certainly stay here and go see Clemson play during the fall as it’s nearby.
Honest Mom Review: Getaway House
I am always up for anything that will give me the opportunity to make wonderful memories with my kids and Getaway certainly provided that.
We had so much fun making a campfire, roasting s’mores, drinking hot chocolate, playing games, and enjoying the privacy and overall novelty of the tiny cabin. We read books at night, went hiking during the day, and I made breakfast the last morning we were there.
Roasting s’mores
The cabin was really comfortable and had everything we needed to have a fun and relaxing weekend. I was especially happy that it didn’t have a television or great cell service. I sometimes need that extra kick to get me to put down my phone and just focus on the present.
My kids loved the AM/FM radio at the cabin, which they had never actually seen before. It was so cute watching them try to manually find the stations on the dial.
I would go back here with my kids but also consider it if I ever got the opportunity to spend a night alone. All the books I could read!
Booking Your Getaway House
Booking online is really easy. Prices depend on the time of year and weekend or weeknight request. Cabins start around $88/night. Be sure to follow Getaway via social media and sign up for their newsletter since they run a lot of specials and discounts.
Getaway Greenville Outpost 299 Outpost Road, Seneca, SC [130 Lakeshore Lane, Seneca got me there via my GPS]
More Getaway Locations
You’ll find more Getaway Tiny House locations all across the country. There are locations in California, Texas, Oregon, Washington, Louisiana, South Carolina, Georgia, Massachusetts, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Illinois, Missouri, Alabama, and more! Click on “Locations” to find the nearest Getaway house to you.
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Head up to Zip ‘N Slip in Mars Hill, NC for a fun, fast ride on any of their eight snow tubing lanes. We checked them out and have all the details on enjoying this fun, winter entertainment.
You cannot miss Zip ‘N Slip Snow Tubing Park in Mars Hill, North Carolina. It’s right off Highway 26 heading through NC towards Tennessee, about an hour and 40 minutes from Greenville, SC. And wow, you’re in for some fast and fun rides at this snow tubing park.
Zip ‘N Slip has eight snow tubing lanes that can run more than 800 feet long in optimal snow conditions. How long is that in terms of flying down on a tube? About 20 seconds! It’s really fast, especially in colder weather.
My kids – ages 13 and 9 – had a blast at this snow tubing park and it was well worth the drive up there. The owner is really nice and has owned the property for more than a decade. He initially wanted to build a hotel and shopping center on the property but ended up having so much fun with the snow tubing park that he kept the fun winter activity as it was and updated the park and equipment.
There are eight snow tubing lanes. At least there were when we went. Because of weather and snow-making abilities, this can definitely change each season or each week or month even as the park is able to create the snow needed for the hill. Or if they just get a ton of snow through Mother Nature, then it’s even more fun. It is always a good idea to check the social media pages or website of any seasonal activity before you head out to ascertain the conditions of the park.
There are heated bathrooms at Zip ‘N Slip as well as hot chocolate and a fire pit. They sell hot dogs, nachos, and mac & cheese as well. We were promised free marshmallows to roast after our tubing run but headed out too fast. We saw some people with sticky fingers though so we know they enjoyed the treats.
And if you forget your winter gear like hats, gloves, or even socks, you can purchase them at the park.
Tubing at Zip ‘N Slip
Tubing at Zip ‘N Slip was unlike most places I’ve been because the guests, once they got their safety briefing and tickets, were pretty much on their own. It was definitely fun but like the Wild West of tubing.
Once you get your tube, you’ll head over to the Magic Carpet ride, an escalator-type contraption that you stand on while holding onto your tube. Pro tip: lean forward on it so you don’t fall backwards. Once you get to the top of the hill, you’ll step off ever-so-gracefully and be able to choose which lane you want to go down.
Tubing at Zip ‘N Slip
There aren’t any staff members at the top of the hill so you just choose your lane and go down or wait until the person in front of you goes down. We didn’t have any issues with waiting or choosing our lanes. Because there are eight lanes, we got in a lot of runs and rarely had to wait for a spot.
But it does get a little tricky at the top pulling a tube amongst other people while navigating snow. I slipped twice but in my defense, it was a little icy. And I’m clumsy. I was fine.
Once you choose your lane, you put your tube leash inside the tube and then get in your tube and shimmy to the edge of the great abyss, uh, lane. Ideally, you’ll want to check to make sure no one is at the bottom of the lane you are planning to slide down. If they are, wait until they are gone and then go. Also watch out for people who may be walking in front of your lane. Wait for them to get out of the way and then shimmy your tube closer – or get someone to push you- to the edge and go down. Wheeee!
Once you get down to the bottom, get out of your tube, grab the leash and get out of the way. Fast. I cannot emphasize how fast you need to move once you are at the bottom. There are no staff to tell you to get out of the way or signal anyone at top that it’s ok to send down the next people. You’re responsible for getting out of the way so do it.
And pay attention. People are going to come down those lanes whether you’re paying attention to someone in a giant tube heading in your direction or not.
And have fun! Depending on how many people are there, you may get through a lot of runs during your time on the hill. I can’t even count how many times my kids and I went down. It was probably at least 30 times. We had the first slot of the day when we went at 10 am and it wasn’t sold out. The slot at Noon was sold out and there were definitely more people. So when you go, maybe choose the earlier time slot.
Tips on Visiting Zip ‘N Slip
We’ve been snow tubing to several places and some of these tips follow our previous advice but read on because a few are very specific to Zip ‘N Slip:
Bring a change of clothes: depending on the weather, snow will melt and you’ll get wet. If you don’t want to drive home in wet clothes, bring a change of clothes, socks, and shoes.
Wear layers: we were hot after the first 15 minutes and ending up shedding our hats, gloves, and jacket. It’s best to wear layers, especially if the temperatures will rise while you’re there.
You don’t need snow gear: it’s just snow tubing and you’re not skiing. Pants and boots, even hiking boots, hats, gloves, and a jacket are fine.
Get out of the way at the bottom of the hill: when you finish your tubing run, move and move fast. The way the lanes are designed, unless you’re in the furthest half of the lanes, you’ll have to walk in front of most of the lanes to get back to the magic carpet. If you don’t move fast, you may be in the way of another tuber coming down the run.
Pay attention: for reasons mentioned above, pay attention to your surroundings and make sure your kids are watching for fast tubers coming down the lane when they are making their way back to get in line to go back up.
Watch the weather: if you’re going up on an unseasonably warm day, check with Zip ‘N Slip to make sure they are operating normally and secondly, get the first available time slot of the day. You’ll go way faster on colder snow than when it starts to melt a little when the weather warms up.
Keep an eye on your kids: this is standard advice but here, kids need to be watched as they go up the magic carpet and make their way down the lanes and then grabbing their tubes and doing it again. They just need to be aware of their surroundings.
It can get muddy: at the bottom of the tubing hill, there’s a lot of straw and snow, which is great for stopping your tubing run. But when the weather is warm, the snow will melt and it will get muddy. This didn’t bother myself, my kids, and really anyone I saw there but just be aware that you may get dirty and refer to tip #1 about bringing a change of clothes.
Be kind and respectful: we had a blast while tubing and everyone was great. But during busier times, there may be some jostling of uncontrollable giant tubes at the top or people not paying attention at the bottom or on . Have patience and be kind.
Fire pit at Zip ‘N Slip
Tickets to Zip ‘N Slip
You can get tickets for an hour or two hours. One hour is $30/person and two hours is $45/person. Kids must be at least 3-years-old to go tubing and kids ages 3-5 are free and must ride in the lap of an adult.
You can – and should, especially on busy holiday weekends – make reservations online. Save time by filling out your waiver and bringing it with you.
Zip ‘N Slip also offers discounted rates for school and homeschool groups of 15 or more. Keep an eye out for Homeschool Day as well since tickets are heavily discounted. We scored $15/person tickets for two hours of tubing during a recent Homeschool Day!
Hours
The snow tubing park is usually open from mid-December through mid-January Monday-Saturday from 9 am – 9 pm and Sundays from 9 am – 6 pm. From mid-January through early March, the park is open Friday-Sunday and holidays like President’s Day and MLK Jr. Day. They also have special events like Homeschool Day. Follow their Facebook page for details.
Stay in Mars Hill, NC
If you want to make your stay a little longer, here’s where to stay in Mars Hill, NC near Zip ‘N Slip.
Kidding Around earns when you book through this map through an affiliate relationship with Stay22.
Bonus Day Trip Fun
Because the snow tubing park was a bit of a drive, my kids and I wanted to extend our adventure a bit. So we went to explore nearby Burnsville, NC and had such a great time! The little town has a beautiful downtown and town square. They have several shops that sell homemade items like scarves, clothing, and hats plus an adorable toy store, a huge general store, a specialty tea shop, a beautiful shoe store, and lots more.
Scenes from Burnsville, NC
While we didn’t eat in Burnsville, there are a couple restaurants plus a coffee shop right along the main street area of the town. We spent about two hours wandering around the shops till our hearts content and could not have been more smitten with the town. I certainly plan to go back and explore it more when we are up in that area again!
Additionally, the Biltmore is on your way back from Greenville if you want to add that to your day trip itinerary.
Are you looking for inexpensive date nights 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 is a list of inexpensive dates in Greenville.
Want to see the great outdoors without actually hiking? Kidding Around’s Kristina loves hunting out great waterfalls. She’s created this amazing driving tour packed full of stops where you can see waterfalls without hiking. It’s a perfect day trip activity. She even included a map with all the stops. So fire up that GPS or pop open your favorite map app and get going!
Looking for more waterfalls? 💧Love waterfalls? Here’s our list of Waterfalls in the Southeast with great hiking in South Carolina, Georgia, North Carolina, and Tennesse. 💧Also, if you happen to just love waterfalls like we do and are looking for opportunities to keep them clean and pristine, look into volunteering at any of these outdoor places.
There are few places I’d rather be on the weekends than hiking with my kids to some spectacular waterfall. I’ve done a lot of them and plan lots more. But sometimes hiking a few, or more, miles just isn’t happening. But waterfalls? Yes, I still want to see them!
So if you have the grandparents on board and can’t hike or if there is no way you are listening to kids whine for two hours in the woods or for whatever reason you aren’t hiking, we’ve put together an epic (yes, this is epic) waterfall tour in North Carolina for the ultimate day trip that will kill it on your Instagram feed.
If you need more fun in Western NC, see our big Guide to WNC!
North Carolina Waterfall Driving Tour Map
Just beyond the South Carolina/North Carolina border lies the “Land of the Waterfalls” – it’s true, there is an actual sign that says this – so this is where our epic tour takes you. And because we love our readers and want to make things super easy, we also put together a map of the tour!
I suggest you pack a lot of snacks, drinks, lunch, and some car entertainment since you will have to spend time on the road, even though the drive through the mountains is gorgeous.
You can do this tour starting at either the first or the last waterfall as it takes about the same amount of time as well.
Looking Glass Falls
This waterfall is huge and gorgeous. It’s been on my list since I saw an incredible shot of the falls frozen during the winter. I was really hoping to catch the same photo when I went but it wasn’t cold enough. However, ice did cover the stairs at the very bottom of the falls and the surrounding trees, branches and rocks. It was awesome.
You can literally see the falls from the car but park it anyways, get out and if you have people who are willing and able to walk down the stairs, you can get a close-up view. But if not, you will still get to see the falls in all their glory.
Directions
From Greenville, take 276 W to 25 N and take Exit 5 to 25 N. Take Crab Creek Road to 64 W in Brevard and then take 276 N into Pisgah National Forest. The falls will be on your right.
Sliding Rock
Right down the street from Looking Glass Falls in the Pisgah National Forest is the popular summer destination of Sliding Rock. During the winter, there is no one there and you don’t have to pay to enter (during the summer season, it is $5/person).
You can see Sliding Rock from the top where the bathrooms are located and it’s a short walk down the stairs to the platform that overlooks the gigantic natural waterslide.
The pool is about eight feet deep and during the summer there are lifeguards to keep everyone safe. It’s a sight to see though!
Directions
From Looking Glass Falls, keep going on 276 into the forest and Sliding Rock is about four minutes away on the left.
Bridal Veil Falls
It’s about an hour and 20 minutes from Sliding Rock to Bridal Veil Falls in between Cashiers and Highlands but the drive along 64 is gorgeous. And you can go through Brevard if you like and grab lunch (I’d suggest Square Root for higher end cuisine or grab some delicious pastries and bread to make sandwiches at the Bracken Mountain Bakery) to space out the trip and fuel up. We also love stopping at the original O.P. Taylors toy store in downtown Brevard.
Bridal Veil Falls is literally on the side of the road. You could even stay in your car and see this beautiful 60-foot cascading waterfall but really, you should get out because it’s so pretty, especially in the winter when it freezes over occasionally and icicles drop down and make the whole scene ethereal.
You can walk behind this waterfall too, which makes it even cooler. You used to be able to drive behind it but you aren’t allowed anymore.
Directions
Take 276 back to Brevard and make a right on 64 W. Take that all the way through Cashiers and the falls will be about 11.5 from Cashiers on your right.
Dry Falls
A two-minute drive down the road will bring you to Dry Falls on the left. Park in the lot and either use the handicap accessible ramp to go to the overlook or in the warmer months head down to the falls and walk behind them and take photos to make everyone you know jealous.
These falls are huge and loud and incredible. If you are able to walk behind the falls, stay on the path and behind the railing and don’t walk out on the rocks. Waterfalls are dangerous and you don’t want to become a statistic.
If you’re hungry on your way out from Dry Falls, stop at Slabtown Pizza in Cashiers for delicious pizza.
Directions
Stay on 64 W for .8 miles and the falls and parking will be on your left.
Bonus: Lake Jocassee Overlook
I wasn’t expecting this driving to the last waterfall stop so it was a bonus for me. About three miles or so from Whitewater Falls is this overlook that will take your breath away.
You can see all of Lake Jocassee and marvel at the beauty of the gorge. Stop, take photos, have a snack. It’s worth it.
Directions
It’s on Route 130 from Cashiers to Whitewater Falls. You can’t miss it.
Whitewater Falls
The last waterfall on our list is the biggest waterfall east of the Rocky Mountains, standing at a whooping 411 feet tall, cascading down the mountainside in all it’s beautiful glory.
Whitewater Falls is just under 40 minutes from Dry Falls and is totally worth the trip. Even though I promised no hiking, don’t be mad about this quarter-mile paved trail to the falls. The sign says the falls are a half-mile from the parking lot but they mean round trip. The trail is very short and the view is amazing.
If you are ambitious and want to get out energy from the car ride, head to the stairs on the right, which will take you down to the viewing platform where you can see all of Whitewater Falls. It’s a nice little workout getting back up those 154 stairs.
Directions
From Dry Falls, go east on 64, hang a right at the center of Cashiers onto 107 South, and then make a left onto 130 North and follow signs to the falls. It’s about 25 miles total.
