Think “hot chicken” means your kids can’t eat there? Rocky’s Hot Chicken Shack on Laurens Road wants to clear something up: it’s only spicy if you want it to be.
The word “hot” is right there in the name, so plenty of families drive past assuming everything on the menu will set their mouths on fire. In reality, the heat is optional, and the menu goes far beyond Nashville-style hot chicken.
Thank you to Rocky’s Hot Chicken for sponsoring this article.
A Southern scratch kitchen first
Rocky’s is a Southern scratch kitchen before it’s anything else. Everything is prepped fresh daily and put together in-house, and the team takes real pride in getting it right the same way every single time. Consistency matters to them, and it shows.
Fried tenders are the runaway favorite, but the menu also includes bone-in thighs and legs, rotisserie chicken, chicken salad, and a chicken pot pie that regulars rave about. There’s even a honey-style option with lemon pepper for anyone who likes a little sweet with their heat.
One detail that tells you how seriously they take the food: wings are served whole, not split into drums and flats. Once you separate a wing, the natural juices escape. Keeping it whole keeps it moist. That’s the kind of thinking that goes into every plate.
How the heat actually works
Here’s what makes Rocky’s different from a lot of hot chicken spots. There’s no sauce on the side, and nothing is drowning in a tub of oil. Instead, spice is built to order using what they call a painting system. The chicken starts with no spice, then moves to mild with a dry rub, and the heat gets painted on at the level you choose.
For families, that means a ‘no spice’ order is truly mild. Kids can have the same tenders you’re eating without a single tear. Adults who want to test their limits can climb the scale. Everyone eats from the same kitchen, and nobody has to compromise.
Kid-friendly and allergy-aware
Rocky’s has a kids’ menu with fried tenders and legs, plus a grilled option for little ones who aren’t in a fried mood. Gluten-free options are available, and the kitchen fries in soy oil, which is worth knowing if you’re managing allergies at your table.
Sides are where Southern comfort really lands. Mashed potatoes, collard greens, green beans, coleslaw, fries, pickles, and a garden salad are all on the list, along with celery and carrots for the kids who want something crunchy and cool. Want to turn your tenders into chicken and waffles? Add a waffle on the side.
The sauces (and the pudding)
Ranch is still the undisputed favorite here, but it comes with a Rocky’s twist. Their zippy ranch is house-made with a spice pack folded in, and the bleu cheese gets the same treatment. Every sauce is made in the building.
Save room for the banana pudding. It’s creamy, house-made, and the kind of dessert that gets ordered “for the kids” and quietly finished by the grown-ups.
Catering, parties, and the coop
If you’re feeding a crowd, Rocky’s does family-style catering for private parties, sporting events, team dinners, and more. Platters are available, and you can also order through EZCater. A 48-hour heads-up is best, but they can sometimes accommodate shorter notice, so it never hurts to ask. Catering can be ordered as buffet-style, platters, or as individually packed meals depending on what your event needs.
Looking for a spot to host a birthday, a team celebration, or a family get-together? Rocky’s has a patio available for rental, plus a private space they call “the coop.” For $50, the garage door comes down and the space is yours. Private pricing is available, so reach out to the restaurant directly to plan your event.
Fae Nectar in Lake Lure, NC is part medieval tavern, part craft meadery, part immersive fantasy venue — and completely unlike anywhere else you’ll take your family. In this review, Crystal Taylor shares what it’s actually like to visit: what the food is like, whether to bring the kids (yes), and why there is always a reason to go back.
Some places are hard to describe with just one word.
Fae Nectar in Lake Lure is one of those places.
It’s a medieval tavern, a meadery, an event venue, and a gathering place for fantasy fans, all set on beautiful property overlooking the mountains and water of Lake Lure. Whether you’re looking for a unique family outing, somewhere to enjoy lunch with a little extra atmosphere, a place to listen to live music, or an excuse to embrace your inner geek, Fae Nectar offers a little bit of all of it. And yes, you might feel like you’ve wandered into a fantasy story along the way.
Quick Facts: Fae Nectar
Address: 2984 Memorial Highway, Lake Lure, NC 28746
Hours: Thursday and Friday 4 pm – 10 pm | Saturday 11 am – 10 pm | Sunday 12 pm – 6 pm | Closed Monday through Wednesday
Admission: Free to enter the tavern and grounds; food and drinks purchased separately
Best for: All ages; families, couples, fantasy fans, groups
Pets: Welcome
Drive from Greenville/Spartanburg: 1 hr and 15 minutes
The medieval tavern is where the Fae Nectar experience really comes to life.
Wooden booths and tables, flickering torches, shields mounted on the walls, and a wooden sign-style menu immediately set the scene. Look around and you’ll find whimsical fairy and mushroom decor mixed throughout the space, adding a little bit of that enchanted feeling. Then there’s the music. Celtic tunes, sea shanties, and lute jams create a soundtrack that makes the whole experience feel wonderfully immersive. It’s easy to imagine yourself settling into a wooden booth after a long day of adventuring. Your biggest quest, as it turns out, may simply be deciding what to order for lunch.
The stone patio seating area outside Fae Nectar, with dramatic mountain and water views.
Don’t Forget to Look Outside
Fae Nectar isn’t confined to the tavern.
Step outside and the setting becomes part of the experience, with beautiful mountain and water views surrounding the property. There’s a large lawn and festival grounds, along with porch seating where you can relax and take in the scenery. The expansive property also makes Fae Nectar a unique setting for events, with a grand Great Hall and plenty of outdoor space. It’s the kind of place where you may arrive for one reason and end up wanting to stay much longer.
The Squire’s Bratwurst — a tavern favorite from the Celtic Kitchen at Fae Nectar.
Come Hungry, Adventurer
Of course, we had to try some of the food while we were there.
My husband went with the fish and chips, complete with malt vinegar and tartar sauce, and I chose the Squire’s Bratwurst. Both fit right in with the whole tavern experience. The menu keeps the theme going with choices like the Blacksmith Burger and Ranger’s Reuben, alongside plenty of other tavern-inspired options. Even the names make ordering lunch feel like part of the adventure.
And since you can’t visit a meadery and not try the mead, we had to give that a try too. We chose the Elderberry Mead with Hibiscus, and we enjoyed its light, fruity, floral flavor. It’s those little details, from the themed menu names to the mead itself, that make a meal at Fae Nectar feel like more than just stopping somewhere for lunch. You’re settling into a medieval tavern and getting to enjoy the whole experience.
Good to know: If mead isn’t your thing, the Celtic Kitchen also offers local beers, wines, ciders, craft sodas, and sparkling waters. There’s something for every adventurer at the table.
Yes, Bring the Kids
While Fae Nectar certainly has plenty to offer adults, families can absolutely enjoy the experience too.
Grab lunch, find a spot at one of the wooden tables, and bring along a favorite card or board game. The relaxed atmosphere makes it easy to turn a meal into a little family hangout rather than simply stopping in to eat. And if your kids are into fantasy, fairies, medieval adventures, imaginative play, or anything involving dragons and quests — you may have just found their kind of place. Even kids who don’t know their paladins from their rangers can enjoy the novelty of eating somewhere that feels so different from the everyday.
There’s More Than One Way to Experience Fae Nectar
One of the things that makes Fae Nectar especially interesting is that the experience isn’t always the same.
Fae Nectar hosts weekly themed gatherings, live music, and immersive monthly fantasy festivals throughout its medieval tavern and festival grounds. Events include masquerade balls, pirate parties, Dungeons and Dragons nights, and sprawling fantasy festivals with craft vendors, cosplay, and performances for all ages. And when they say immersive, they mean it.
Fae Nectar even has a fully functioning giant trebuchet, which is used to launch projectiles during its weekend siege festivals. Yes, an actual trebuchet. If you’ve ever wanted to experience a little medieval siege action as part of your family adventure, this is about as close as you’re going to get without actually being transported back in time.
You might come for a laid-back family lunch one weekend and return for live music or a themed gathering another time. During one of the fantasy festivals, the experience becomes much more immersive. For fantasy fans, these events are a real chance to lean into the world Fae Nectar has created.
Tip: Check the Fae Nectar event calendar before you visit. Depending on what’s happening that weekend, you might walk into a pirate party, a live music night, or a siege festival with a trebuchet launch. Planning ahead helps you get the most out of your trip.
A Place to Gather
With its grand Great Hall, spacious lawn, and festival grounds, Fae Nectar also offers a memorable setting for gatherings and celebrations. The combination of indoor and outdoor space, the mountain and water views, and the medieval atmosphere makes this a venue that’s a little outside the ordinary. And honestly, we’d expect nothing less.
Plan Your Visit to Fae Nectar
Fae Nectar isn’t just somewhere to grab a meal. It’s a place to experience. Come for the food. Stay for the scenery. Listen to the music, explore the fantasy-inspired details, play a game with the kids, and see what’s happening on the event calendar.
And if you’ve ever secretly wished you could spend an afternoon in a medieval tavern surrounded by mountains? Well, adventurer, your quest may have just brought you to Lake Lure. Fae Nectar is ready when you are.
Visit faenectar.com for the full menu, event calendar, and everything you need to plan your visit. Find them at 2984 Memorial Highway in Lake Lure, NC 28746.
Yes! Fae Nectar welcomes children and pets. The relaxed tavern atmosphere is easy for families, and kids who love fantasy, fairies, or anything medieval will especially enjoy the setting. Consider bringing a board game or card game to extend the fun at the table.
What are Fae Nectar’s hours?
As of this writing, the Fae Nectar tavern is open Thursday and Friday from 4 pm to 10 pm, Saturday from 11 am to 10 pm, and Sunday from 12 pm to 6 pm. Hours may vary for special events. Always check faenectar.com for the most current schedule before you go.
Do I need to like mead to enjoy Fae Nectar?
Not at all. While the small-batch mead is a highlight and very much worth trying, the Celtic Kitchen also offers local beers, wines, ciders, craft sodas, and sparkling waters. The food alone, with thematic options like the Ranger’s Reuben, Blacksmith Burger, and fish and chips, makes the visit completely worthwhile.
What kinds of events does Fae Nectar host?
Fae Nectar hosts weekly themed gatherings, live music nights, and immersive monthly fantasy festivals on its festival grounds. Past events have included masquerade balls, pirate parties, Dungeons and Dragons nights, and siege festivals featuring the venue’s fully functioning giant trebuchet. Check the event calendar on their website for what’s coming up.
Is there a cover charge at Fae Nectar?
Entry to the Fae Nectar tavern and grounds is free on regular tavern days; food and drinks are ordered separately. Special events may have a ticketed admission, so check the event calendar before your visit.
Have you visited Grandad’s Apples? Fall is just around the corner, and your family might be hunting for the perfect apple orchard! We checked out Grandad’s Apples ‘N Such and had so much fun. You’ll find activities for kids at Grandad’s Apples ‘N Such, with beautiful views, and, of course, apples.
U-PICK: U-pick is open for 2026! The 2026 season opened July 31, starting with Ginger Golds, Galas, and Zestars. Follow Grandad’s Facebook page for the latest updates on apple availability and any schedule changes.
Hendersonville, North Carolina is known for its delicious apples and it’s easy to see why on the drive up to Grandad’s Apples ‘N Such. There are a handful of orchards within a few-mile radius and several farm stands all selling the delicious fruit. On my quest to find the perfect apple orchard experience, I headed on over to Grandad’s, which I heard was pretty awesome.
Are you looking for kid-friendly restaurants? Greenville, SC has several with play areas so your kids can burn off some steam while mom and dad might even be able to enjoy the food on their plates!
The Kidding Around Team is full of parents with kids, and we totally get the need for a fun family dining experience. So, we are sharing our list of family restaurants in Greenville, SC, and the surrounding area, including ones where your kids can make art while you eat, watch planes take off and land, or even get into a game of bowling.
The play areas at these locations range from professionally installed play structures to an empty piece of land to run around on. Please consider this when releasing your child into the wild.
What are the best places to eat and play? We asked and our readers answered in our annual KABOOM Awards highlighting the best in Greenville, SC.
Quick Facts: Kid Friendly Restaurants with Play Areas Near Greenville, SC
Every address below was re-verified against each business’s own website or official page in September 2026. Hours and pricing change often, so call ahead or check the restaurant’s site before you go.
Restaurant
Address
Type of Play
Other Lands
731 Rutherford Rd, Greenville
Fenced outdoor kids space, climbing structure, board games
TReehouse Cafe
27 S Main St, Travelers Rest
Art studio, coloring, painting, table toys
Swamp Rabbit Cafe & Grocery
205 Cedar Lane, Greenville
Enclosed outdoor kids area
Gather GVL
126 Augusta St, Greenville
Open play space, food-hall seating
The Mill at Fountain Inn
100 Ellison St, Fountain Inn
Green space, lawn games, outdoor movie setup
Warehouse at Vaughn’s
109B W Trade St, Simpsonville
Sandpit, vintage arcade, picnic tables
The Open Door
911 W Main St, Pickens
Cornhole and outdoor games
Spare Time
822 Congaree Rd, Greenville
Bowling, laser tag, arcade
D’Allesandro’s Pizza
17 Mohawk Dr, Greenville
Outdoor side yard next to the patio
The Southern Growl
155 N Buncombe Rd, Greer
Large open lawn
The Mason Jar
202 Trade St, Greer
Lego table and toys indoors
Wild Wing Cafe
1025 Woodruff Rd, Greenville
Shared courtyard play area
J.R. Cash’s Grill & Bar
320 Big Water Rd, Starr
Pirate ship playground on Lake Hartwell
Big Air Greenville
36 Park Woodruff Dr, Greenville
Indoor trampoline park with kitchen
Big Air Spartanburg
660 Spartan Blvd, Spartanburg
Indoor trampoline park with kitchen
Green Laundry Lounge
10 Moorlyn Ln Ste G, Greer
Small enclosed mulched play area
Dray: Bar + Grill
1800 Drayton Rd Ste 301, Spartanburg
Large open lawn, fire pit
Fr8Yard
125 E Main St, Spartanburg
Open biergarten, ping-pong, cornhole
Fuddrucker’s
1509 John B White Sr Blvd, Spartanburg
Small indoor arcade
Let Them Play! Kid Friendly Restaurants: Greenville, SC
Other Lands
731 Rutherford Rd, Greenville, SC Other Lands is a coffee house and brewery with a beautiful patio area and fenced in kids space with a climbing structure, toys, and little play houses. They also have board and card games for older kids. We think Other Lands is such a fun place to eat and play! They serve Breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Here’s our reel on Other Lands.
One of the outdoor spaces at Other Lands
TReehouse Cafe
27 South Main Street, Travelers Rest Kids can literally eat and play at the same time at the TReehouse Cafe in Travelers Rest. Owned by an artist and chef, this place is both a cafe and an art studio. They don’t skimp on either part of this masterpiece. The food is delicious and plentiful, with paninis, sandwiches, and salads, and the art is freeing, with options for coloring, painting, or playing with a Mr. Potato Head toy.
Learn more about why TReehouse Cafe is one of the most kid-friendly restaurants Greenville, SC has!
The TReehouse in Travelers Rest has tons of art projects to purchase, crayons and pencils and paper for doodling, and toys for the little baby ones to play with at the table. I think they’re open for breakfast and lunch only?
Carrie
Swamp Rabbit Cafe & Grocery
205 Cedar Lane, Greenville Half of this place is outside – mainly their pizza oven, patio, and kid’s play area – which makes it ideal for eating and playing. I’m a big fan of grabbing coffee and breakfast and letting my kids play in the enclosed area while I enjoy the delicious offerings. Or you can take a break with the kids, eat an amazing sandwich, soup, or salad, and play afterward.
Either way, the Swamp Rabbit Cafe is probably close to the top when it comes to kid friendly restaurants Greenville, SC offers (it’s owned by two women who are moms of little kids themselves, they should know) and has amazing food so it’s definitely a must-do on your Greenville restaurant list!
Learn more about why the Swamp Rabbit Cafe and Grocery is one of the top kid friendly restaurants Greenville, SC locals love!
We love Swamp Rabbit Cafe, especially on their monthly thursday night pizza party events. They donate a portion of the proceeds to a local non-profit, the kids get to play and dance to the Dj music and mom gets to enjoy a Frose. It’s a win-win that makes everyone happy!
126 Augusta Street, Greenville Gather GVL offers plenty of play space for kids, plus an almost infinite list of menu options! Picky eaters will find almost whatever they want in this unique co-op setup of food vendors. Burgers, tacos, pasta, sushi, donuts, and more can be found on the menus at Gather GVL.
For more details on this unique dining option, head to our Guide to Gather GVL
The Mill at Fountain Inn
100 Ellison Street, Fountain Inn We love this spot in Fountain Inn for it’s delicious food and spacious outdoor area where they have a big movie setup and green space. There are games for kids to play as well. They also have lots of great events.
Warehouse at Vaughn’s (formerly Vaughn’s Food Hall)
109B West Trade Street, Simpsonville With several food options, outdoor picnic tables, live music, and a huge sandpit for your kids to play in, Warehouse at Vaughn’s is a super family-friendly restaurant in Greenville, SC. There is a brewery, vintage arcade, pizza shop, taco shop, ice cream shop, and more places that kids love!
The Upstate Pinball Museum is located next door at 109A West Trade Street and is a great stop before or after dining.
Kids playing at Vaughn’sAnchor Bar at Vaughn’s
The Open Door
911 W. Main Street, Pickens This spot has cornhole and other outdoor games to play. They have huge pretzels and excellent sandwiches plus live music on certain dates. We loved hanging out here!
Spare Time
822 Congaree Road, Greenville More than a bowling alley, Spare Time Greenville also has laser tag, an arcade, and a restaurant. You can order food while bowling or head to the restaurant and let the kids play in the arcade while you enjoy a few moments of peace. It’s easy to see why Spare Time is one of the best family restaurants in Greenville, SC. There is so much to do!
D’Allesandros Pizza
17 Mohawk Drive, Greenville Tucked off to the side down near Community Tap, D’Allesandros Pizza was recommended by several readers. There’s an outdoor seating area with an adjacent area for kids to play.
D’Allesandro’s Pizza Greenville has a great side yard by the patio.
Julia
The Southern Growl
155 N Buncombe Road, Greer Several parents I have talked to love going out to dinner with their kids at The Southern Growl. There is a large gravel area for your kids to spread out, and there’s a new “pack yard” where kids can play, so they won’t feel tied down while you wait for your food.
The Mason Jar
202 Trade Street, Greer After hunting down all the “Toads on Trade”, your family can hop into The Mason Jar restaurant to enjoy a burger and fries. Named for the owner’s Grandchild, this restaurant makes a point of welcoming kids.
The Mason Jar downtown Greer. They have a little Lego table with some other toys. Great Burger special on Wednesdays too!
Rachel
Wild Wing Cafe
1025 Woodruff Rd, Greenville Wild Wing Cafe is located right next to the Regal Hollywood cinema (long known locally as Hollywood 20), and in the courtyard between them is a huge play area. It’s a perfect spot to take kids to play while you wait for the food to be prepared!
J.R. Cash’s Grill & Bar
320 Big Water Road, Starr J.R. Cash’s is located on the shores of Lake Hartwell in Anderson, SC and while the food and view are excellent, it’s the pirate ship playground that really takes the cake here. The playground is right next to the restaurant and has slides, rings, a tire swing, and a hammock. Big Water Marina now lists the restaurant as open year-round, and J.R. Cash’s posts hours of Thursday through Sunday, weather permitting — so it is still worth checking before you drive out.
Big Air
We know trampoline parks are great places to have fun for a couple of hours or throw a birthday party. But Big Air in Greenville has a hot kitchen inside the facility where you can get pizza, pretzels, drinks, and hot dogs. They also offer a Family Fun package on Thursdays and Sundays where you get four one-hour jump passes, a large pizza, and a pitcher of soda. Check Big Air’s Big Deals page for current pricing before you go.
10 Moorlyn Lane Suite G, Greer If you want a quick bite to eat or coffee to sip on while you watch your kids play, then Green Laundry Lounge is a great choice. They have a small enclosed play area, with several seating areas to enjoy, while your kids play in the mulched area with their toys. You can even wash your clothes while letting them play. Sounds like a plan to us!
1800 Drayton Road, Suite 301, Drayton DRAY: Bar + Grill has everything you could want in a place to dine with kids. It has an outdoor seating area with a fire pit for colder weather, a delicious menu for both adults, and kids, and a large area where kids can run around and no one will care! For even more fun, you can attend one of the Movies at the Mill events where they set up a huge movie screen on the lawn. [⚠️ VERIFY: as of 2026-09-09 Dray’s official site promotes its movie nights as “Dinner & A Movie” and lists them at 1800 Drayton Catering and Events, Suite 102, rather than as an outdoor “Movies at the Mill” series. No current “Movies at the Mill” listing was found on Dray’s own site — confirm the event name and whether it is still held outdoors on the lawn.]
Plus the kids can be loud outside and no one cares
Megan B
Fr8Yard
125 East Main Street, Spartanburg Fr8 Yard in Downtown Spartanburg is a kid-friendly restaurant and outdoor Biergarten with plenty of space to run around. And since it’s outdoors, you don’t have to worry about your kid making too much noise.
There are even ping-pong tables and cornhole games available to play free of charge. In addition to great adult beverages, Fr8 Yard also has a huge television screen showing major sporting events, plus live music on some evenings. Offering a selection of yard dogs, grilled cheese, fries, and more, your whole family will find something they want to try.
Not only that but it’s also located right next to Sparkle City Mini Putt. A free mini-golf course, that several downtown businesses will provide putters on loan for use.
Fr8 yard! Kids can run around and play. There’s ping pong, building blocks, and corn hole. Mine love running around and playing with the other kids there. We sometimes bring games to play or small toys to play with as well.
Kent
Fuddrucker’s
1509 John B White Sr Boulevard, Spartanburg The Fuddrucker’s on John B White Sr. Boulevard has a small arcade inside the premises. So, while you wait for your delicious hamburgers to be ready or after you finish your meal, your kids can spend their time playing old-fashioned arcade games.
Plus, Fuddrucker’s has a great children’s menu that also gives kids a free cookie from their scrumptious bakery with each meal. While the arcade is indoors, the way the seating is arranged does give your kids some freedom to check out the arcade while you keep tabs on them from a nearby table. If the weather is nice, they do have a great outdoor seating area, as well.
Restaurants with Play Areas: Chick-Fil-A, McDonald’s, and Chuck E Cheese
A good fallback for dining and eating with kids are the fast-food restaurants in the area that have indoor play structures. It also works as a great bribe tactic to get them to eat. Visit Kidding Around’s list of Restaurants with Play Areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
What restaurants near Greenville, SC have playgrounds or play areas?
Other Lands on Rutherford Road, Swamp Rabbit Cafe & Grocery on Cedar Lane, Green Laundry Lounge in Greer, and Warehouse at Vaughn’s in Simpsonville all have dedicated kids play areas. J.R. Cash’s Grill & Bar at Big Water Marina on Lake Hartwell has a full pirate ship playground.
Where can kids eat and play indoors near Greenville?
Spare Time on Congaree Road has bowling, laser tag, and an arcade alongside its restaurant. Big Air has indoor trampoline parks in both Greenville and Spartanburg with a kitchen on site. TReehouse Cafe in Travelers Rest is a cafe and art studio in one, and Fuddrucker’s in Spartanburg has a small indoor arcade.
Which kid friendly restaurants near Greenville have big outdoor space to run?
The Southern Growl in Greer and Dray: Bar + Grill in Spartanburg both have large open lawns. Fr8Yard in downtown Spartanburg is an outdoor biergarten with ping-pong and cornhole, and The Mill at Fountain Inn has a green space with lawn games.
Is J.R. Cash’s on Lake Hartwell open year round?
Big Water Marina lists J.R. Cash’s Grill & Bar as open year-round, and the restaurant posts hours of Thursday through Sunday, weather permitting. Because the patio and playground are outdoors, it is worth checking before making the drive.
Know of any kid-friendly restaurants Greenville, SC has that we missed? Let us know!
If you are looking for events to celebrate Oktoberfest, Greenville, SC offers several places celebrating Oktoberfest in Greenville and across the Upstate for you to enjoy. However, do you know why people celebrate Oktoberfest or when the event started? KAG has the in on what, where, and why of Oktoberfest, plus we’re sharing all the local Oktoberfest events so you can celebrate, too!
First, let’s talk about how this party got started. Over 200 years ago, a Bavarian crown prince married a princess, which resulted in days of drinking, feasting, and horse races.
I wanted to know why this marriage has been celebrated since October 12, 1810.
It turns out that those horse races were so popular, they decided to do it annually, and that’s why the party continues today. Although, oddly enough, those horse races are no longer a part of the celebration.
To get down to the truth, I consulted my cousin, Frau Roe. She’s a German teacher locally and my go-to for all things Bavarian-related.
Me: So Frau Roe, Why do we celebrate Oktoberfest? Is it because of racehorses, love, or something else?
Frau Roe: “Today, it’s more of a festival atmosphere, carnival rides, lots of food, lots of beer, still celebrated in the same spot under all those tents. Many Bavarians wear traditional clothing to celebrate history. (Lederhosen and Dirndl) So, while it has changed a lot over the years, the original reason is still in the hearts of the Bavarians. It’s definitely a celebration of heritage! ”
Now that we know the what and why let’s find out where!
Growltemberfest at The Southern Growl | September 19th, 2026, 10 am – 11 pm Bavarian beer, food, and music at the Greer brewery. The brewery says Growltemberfest always falls on the same Saturday as the first day of Munich’s Oktoberfest, so watch its events page for the date.
Fireforge 9th Annual Oktoberfest Weekend| September 25th – 27th, 2026 Live Music, commemorative steins, beer & food all weekend long. There’s a children’s activities tent on Saturday afternoon, and a $5 entry fee for ages 13 and up during peak hours Friday and Saturday.
Oktoberfest in NOMA square | October 2nd and 3rd, 2026 Live music and more in the Square in front of the Hyatt Downtown Brat eating and beer stein-holding contest
Hans & Franz Oktoberfest | October 10th, 2026 at 2 pm The biergarten’s own Oktoberfest celebration — dirndls and lederhosen encouraged.
2026 Oktoberfest Events Across The Upstate of South Carolina
Walhalla Oktoberfest | October 16th – 18th, 2026 For 40+ years this South Carolina town has been celebrating its German heritage with a weekend-long celebration. German food, American food, artisan vendors, carnival rides, and fireworks on Saturday night, make this a great family-friendly Oktoberfest to mark on your calendar.
The Country’s Longest Running Oktoberfest: Helen, GA
For hard-core Oktoberfest fans, the longest-running celebration in the US is just a short ride to the mountains of northern Georgia.
The 2026 event runs September 10-13, 17-20 and 24-27, then nightly from October 1 through November 1, 2026. The Oktoberfest parade steps off at noon on Saturday, September 12, 2026, followed by the ceremonial tapping of the first keg. Sunday admission is free, and kids under 6 always get in free. (Helen Chamber of Commerce)
Helen, Georgia, the alpine town, boasts the longest-running Oktoberfest celebration in the country, and it stretches on for nearly two months. From mid-September through the first of November, the town hosts a celebration that’s been happening for 50+ years — 2026 marks the 56th annual Helen Oktoberfest. My family loves Helen, and there’s fun to be had year-round there.
Bratzeit Food Truck: A mobile truck based in the Upstate serving authentic bratwurst, currywurst, pretzel buns, and schnitzel at regional breweries.
Now that you know the what, why and when about Oktoberfest, throw on that lederhosen or dirndl and get ready to celebrate more than 200 years of Oktoberfest tradition!
If you don’t have time for a meal in a restaurant but still want to feed your family a healthy dinner, then what these healthy restaurants in Greenville, SC have to offer will complete your dinner menu! Believe it or not, you can get a fast, yet healthy, meal right here in Greenville.
Local Mom Lindy put together this list of local spots for a quick and healthy meal that even your kids will like, and the Kidding Around Team has been updating it ever since.
I recently wrote up a list of alternatives to the fast-food drive-thru’s and it was so popular that Kidding Around Greenville readers wanted a list of even more quick-service restaurants with healthier food options. So below are some of your favorite spots for a quick bite with kids (a couple of these even have a pickup window!). Note: We did not relist the places that made our first list of healthy drive-thru spots. Be sure to check that out too as almost all of the places on that list offer dine-in too.
Healthy Restaurants in Greenville, SC at a Glance
Addresses, phone numbers, and hours below were verified against each restaurant’s own website on September 24, 2026. Hours change, so it never hurts to call ahead.
Want something quick, super duper healthy, but also full of flavor? Then Clean Eatz is a place you HAVE to try. They have burgers, wraps, build-your-own bowls, and more. I highly recommend building your own bowl, because there are so many options to make your meal. Their Chocolate Covered Strawberry protein smoothie is the perfect amount of sweet. They even have a healthy kid’s menu, with things like pizza rolls and turkey burgers.
Moe’s Southwest Grill
Greenville locations: 2011 Augusta Street | 3700 Pelham Road | 500 Haywood Road
Ironically based out of Atlanta (aka the South EAST), Moe’s is nonetheless pretty good as far as this born and raised Southwesterner is concerned. Much like Chipotle, there are many build-your-own options, but you get unlimited chips and a free salsa bar. So not as good for dieting, but delicious! You can also get birthday freebies and welcome free queso when you sign up for their email club.
O-CHA Tea Bar
300 River Street Ste 122, Greenville, SC 864.283.6702
Though their focus is tea, their dining menu is delicious with many vegetarian options in addition to some amazing pastries. O-CHA Tea Bar is very kid-friendly – when I nursed my baby there a while back, the owner personally came over to thank me for nursing my child and let me know nursing mothers are always welcomed there. They note that hours are subject to change, so it’s worth a quick call before you head over. There’s free parking for the first hour in the River Street Garage.
Papi’s Tacos
300 River Street Suite 123, Greenville, SC 864.373.7274 Also at 21 Augusta Street, Greenville, SC
Downtown along the Reedy River, Papi’s Tacos describes itself as a “food truck without wheels” — a short, simple menu of tacos, tortas, salsas and dips, easy to order and take to go. Kids will love the gelato and enjoy watching the geese in the Reedy River. There’s a second Greenville location on Augusta Street, and the River Street shop is closed Mondays.
Find out why Papi’s Tacos is the place to go in Greenville when you are craving authentic Mexican tacos that are fresh in our KA review!
Sun Belly Cafe
1409 West Blue Ridge Drive, Greenville, SC 404.309.7791 Hours: 10 am-3 pm daily except Tuesday
Have dietary restrictions and want something vegan, gluten-free, or dairy-free? Sun Belly Cafe has a menu loaded with special diet items, but they do not skimp on the flavor! They have a variety of salads and unique, protein-loaded dishes to try out. If you like spicy, they have a savory Ethiopia Stew Plate that my husband always gets when you go here and literally salivates over. This place is probably not the best for families with picky eaters because they have a more adventurous menu, but there are options on the menu for everyone.
Swamp Rabbit Cafe
205 Cedar Lane Road, Greenville, SC 864.255.3385 Hours: 7:30 am-7 pm
It’s a popular local spot, but because of its delicious selections of soups, sandwiches, and salads, all made with fresh, local ingredients, Swamp Rabbit Cafe deserves a spot in the realm of healthy eating out. We just won’t mention those fantastic scones, cookies, or cinnamon rolls.
Learn why the stecca is the best and you’ll never find cleaner, locally sourced products than at the Swamp Rabbit Cafe in our KA review!
Delicious gyros, salads, platters with chicken or lamb, and great side choices are available for dine-in or call ahead for pick-up. Taziki’s has some unique children’s meals, like chicken pitas. They also have great family to-go meal deals available.
Tropical Grille
Greenville locations: 21 S Main Street (Downtown) | 215 Pelham Road | 1628 Woodruff Road
With several locations in the area, Tropical Grille is perfect for any meal and super convenient. They have enough variety with their Cuban-themed menu to suit everyone in the family, no matter what they like, and the prices are very good for what you get.
Their sauces are also fabulous and they have lots of healthy options. Call ahead for pickup or drop-in for a quick, but delicious, dinner. They have a family option for dinner as well, which can last for a couple of meals.
A couple of the Tropical Grilled locations have drive-thrus, but the majority are dine-in or carry-out.
Viva Chicken
3624 Pelham Road Suite B, Greenville — 864.987.8183 1139 Woodruff Road Suite B, Greenville — 864.686.5809
With meals built around delicious, farm-raised chicken, Viva Chicken is an excellent choice for a healthy quick meal. They even have sandwiches, wraps, salads, vegetarian options, and vegan options! They are known for their Peruvian-style rotisserie chicken, so you know it’s juicy.
You can grab a quarter chicken with two sides, or a whole chicken with sides for the entire family — check their current menu for pricing. You’ll find sides like plantains, yuca, or cilantro rice in addition to several signature sides you can choose from. Don’t forget the sauces! They are house-made daily and full of flavor.
Yum Bai SC
Food Truck: Schedule frequently changes
This is an excellent food truck option if you are looking for healthy restaurants. Greenville, SC’s own Yum Bai SC offers fusion Asian cuisine, and they’re consistently parked at some pretty awesome locations and breweries. You can find out where they are going to be located through their regular Facebook posts of their upcoming schedule.
Read our KA review of Yum Bai SC to learn more about their delicious Asian cuisine and get your hands on some of those Lemongrass steaks!
Healthy Restaurants in Greenville, SC: Frequently Asked Questions
What are the healthiest fast options in Greenville, SC?
For a quick, healthy meal in Greenville, families on this list turn to Clean Eatz on Pelham Road for portion-controlled bowls, Sun Belly Cafe on West Blue Ridge Drive for plant-based plates, Swamp Rabbit Cafe on Cedar Lane Road for soups, sandwiches and salads made with local ingredients, and Viva Chicken for Peruvian rotisserie chicken with vegetable sides. All of them are counter-service or call-ahead, so you’re in and out quickly.
Which healthy Greenville restaurants have a kids’ menu?
Clean Eatz has a dedicated kids’ menu with items like pizza rolls and turkey burgers. Taziki’s Mediterranean Cafe offers children’s meals including chicken pitas, plus family to-go meal deals. Tropical Grille also lists a kids’ menu on its website.
Where can I find vegan and gluten-free food in Greenville, SC?
Sun Belly Cafe (1409 West Blue Ridge Drive) builds its menu around vegan, gluten-free and dairy-free dishes. Viva Chicken lists vegetarian and vegan options alongside its rotisserie chicken, and O-CHA Tea Bar has a number of vegetarian choices on its café menu.
Can I order ahead at these Greenville restaurants?
Yes. Taziki’s takes call-ahead pick-up orders, Tropical Grille takes call-ahead and online orders, and Clean Eatz, Moe’s and Viva Chicken all offer online ordering through their websites. Papi’s Tacos is set up for easy takeout as well.
Do any of these healthy Greenville spots have a drive-thru?
This list focuses on dine-in and carry-out spots. A couple of Tropical Grille’s locations have drive-thrus, but the majority are dine-in or carry-out. For drive-thru options specifically, see our separate guide to healthy drive-thrus in Greenville.
While fall brings pumpkin patches, awesome festivals, and apple picking, it’s also the return of football season. And that means tailgating parties. Tailgating is such a fun way to spend time with family and friends. But you need good food. If you don’t want to pull out all the stops yourself, these places will kick your tailgating party up a few notches. Local mom Kristina Hernandez shares the best local restaurants to cater tailgating parties!
There’s nothing quite like tailgating food. It’s usually delicious and meaty, and when paired with roasted corn and potatoes, you have it made! These local restaurants are perfect for catering your next tailgating party.
Bucky’s BBQ
I love Bucky’s BBQ so much that I used them to cater my daughter’s baptism. But they also do a great job with tailgating parties.
They have two locations in Greenville (Roper Mountain Road and Donaldson Center) and one in Fountain Inn. Catering dinners start at $11.50 per person for groups of 10 or more.
864-329-0054 Roper Mountain Rd 864-277-3005 Donaldson Center 864-409-3333 Fountain Inn Bucky’s BBQ catering website
Charlie’s Bar-B-Que
Located near I-85, Charlie’s Bar-B-Que offers what they call a tailgate kit. The kit includes baked beans, coleslaw, chips, bread, tea, and plates along with the entrée of your choice of BBQ, BBQ and turkey, or BBQ and chicken. Tailgate kits are priced per person — $11.25 to $12.75 depending on the entrée and how many you are feeding — and on-site catering is available for parties of 50 or more.
Known for their burgers and milkshakes, Grill Marks also does catering for tailgating parties. I will follow those milkshakes anywhere. Their catering menu includes boxed lunches from $18.99 and a build-your-own slider tray (one dozen sliders) for $50.
See why we love Grill Marks, especially their milkshakes. (Plus, they have gluten-free options, woohoo!)
Henry’s Smokehouse
A BBQ staple in Greenville, Henry’s Smokehouse offers their award-winning food for tailgating. They have lots of options, plus they can set up and take down if you need.
They have two locations, one in Greenville and one in Simpsonville.
A true gem of Greenville barbecue, Mike & Jeff’s offers fantastic options to make your tailgating party a memorable one. Their “Complete” catering arrives with everything you need to set up and serve; delivery orders have a 35-person minimum.
Not only does Nard’s Backyard BBQ cater but they are also a full-fledged BBQ competition team. They will work to cater any size event and keep it within your budget.
Catering mostly for Clemson games, The Smokin’ Pig has four tailgate packages to choose from, ranging in price from $80.99 (feeds 5-8) to $440.99 (feeds 30-40). All of them sound super tasty.
They have locations in Pendleton, Easley, and Anderson.
Mutt’s is a family favorite in our house, and their catering services saved the day at our Baby Q Barbecue baby shower! Their family packs will come in handy if you’re doing a 10-person tailgate party at home, but they also have a full catering menu. Their online catering request form starts at 50 guests. For anything smaller, call your closest Mutt’s.
The rubber chicken has finally made a home in Greenville! People on the Greenville Foodies Facebook page love Dave’s Hot Chicken, and they have excellent options for your next tailgate party. Their Hotbox Tenders and Hotbox Sliders are the perfect pair for your next gathering.
Sky Top Orchard has been welcoming the public since 1980 and helping families make core memories for generations. Here’s why we love them and what to expect when you visit this beautiful and fun orchard!
Sky Top Apple Barn
Watch! Things to Do at Sky Top
Plan Your Visit to Sky Top Orchard: Quick Facts
Location: 1193 Pinnacle Mountain Road, Zirconia, NC 28790 – above Flat Rock, about 45 minutes from Greenville, SC and 40 minutes from Asheville, NC
Hours: Daily 9 am – 6 pm in September and 9 am – 5 pm in August, October, and November, seven days a week. Open Labor Day and Columbus Day; closed Thanksgiving Day
Season: Apple picking runs through the fall. The orchard posts what’s currently picking on its What’s Available page, updated as the crop changes
U-pick tickets (new for 2026): $30 timed-entry ticket includes one u-pick bag shared by up to five people. New tickets are released Wednesdays at noon; walk-up u-pick only if fruit remains
Ages: Something for every age. The bee train is suggested for ages 3 and up; educational field trips are designed for ages 3-10
Activities & pricing: Hayride $3/person (under 2 free) · apple cannon $7 for 8 apples · bee train $4/person · gem mining priced by bucket size · playground, bamboo forest, and observation tower are free
Food: Apple cider doughnuts made fresh daily, from-scratch pies, Pie in the Sky Pizza, and the Snack Shack (cider slushie floats, kettle corn, ice cream)
The first apple trees were planted at Sky Top in 1967 and the family opened for u-pick apples to the public in 1980 – that’s a lot of time for families to make those core memories together. And that’s what so many families have done for decades.
Sky Top is more than an apple orchard to Greenville natives: it’s a place that they hold near and dear because it’s where they have memories of growing up – and it’s where they want to make those same memories with their own kids.
That’s one of the big reasons why this orchard is so unique. The orchard is truly a family-run business and even those people who aren’t family by blood, they are family by time. Some of the employees we met have worked for the orchard for the past 25 years! And they still come back year after year, which I think says a lot about the culture at Sky Top.
The orchard has more than 100 acres of apple trees, grapes, and peach trees. They offer u-pick apples and peaches starting in mid-August and run through November. They are open daily and all their activities are open, even during the week.
Things to do at Sky Top Orchard
All of these activities are open seven days a week during the season.
Pick Apples
Of course, you’ll want to pick apples while at Sky Top! They offer almost two dozen different kinds of apples, including Gala, Honeycrisp, Candy Crisp, Jonagold, Pink Lady, Cortland, and Mutsu. They have both pre-picked apples and bags that you can buy to go to the orchard and pick your own. If you have a certain variety you are waiting on, visit their website to see which apples are currently available.
New for 2026: u-pick now uses timed-entry tickets. The orchard has introduced Advanced Timed-Ticket Appointments for u-pick, so reserving online is the only way to guarantee a picking spot. Each $30 ticket includes one u-pick bag that can be shared by up to five people, and new tickets are released every Wednesday at noon. Walk-up u-pick is available only if fruit remains, so book ahead if apple picking is the whole point of your trip. You do not need a timed ticket to visit the rest of the orchard – the market, bakery, pizza shop, playground, and attractions are open to everyone.
Apple Cannon
If I could stay in one place in the orchard all day long, it would be at the apple cannon. There’s something about shooting apples at targets that is both relaxing and exhilarating. I don’t even know why it’s so fun but it is and you should definitely do it. My daughters and I absolutely loved trying to hit the targets and smash the apples. At the end of the day, the goats are released to the field where all the shot apples are at for dinner so it’s a win-win. The cost is $7 for 8 apples.
Sky Top Apple Cannon
Playground
The big playground has houses to play in, slides, and giant apples to hide in. Most of it all fenced in as well, which is awesome for parents trying to herd their kids. The play area is free to visit.
Bee Train
The bee train is adorable and kids love riding around in it and they all just look so cute and happy. The suggested age to ride is 3+. The ride is $4/person.
Bamboo Forest
I didn’t really expect a bamboo forest at an apple orchard but there it was so I checked it out. It’s fun to run around and hide amongst the super tall bamboo trees (are they called trees?). The forest is free to visit and located next to the barn and gem mine.
Gem Mining
If the kids want to sort through some dirt and sand to find gems, they can certainly do that at Sky Top. And perhaps even cooler is that there’s a history of actual Zircon mining near Sky Top, which you can read about here. The cost of gem mining is based on bucket size.
Hayride
Take a hayride around the orchard and soak up the views of the mountains against the apple trees. It’s gorgeous! The ride lasts about 10-15 minutes and cost $3/person.
Observation Tower
We loved the views from the three-story observation deck at Sky Top. You can see all the gorgeous mountain views plus get a great shot of the orchard from the top. It’s free to climb and near the back parking area.
Animal Barn
Sky Top has an unusual animal at the barn: peacocks. Several of them actually. They are so pretty – keep an eye out for their all-white peacock! The orchard’s animals live on the farm year-round, and you can also pick grass for the bunnies and chickens or feed the sheep and goats. You can purchase animal feed ($3) if you want to feed the ducks, peacocks, bunnies, or turkey. [⚠️ VERIFY: the $3 animal feed price is not listed on the orchard’s Attractions page (checked 2026-09-10) – confirm current pricing]
What to Eat at Sky Top
Sky Top Orchard has added some tasty treats in recent seasons and has plans to add even more to the menu.
Sparkling cider and pizza
Apple Cider Donuts
No surprise here but the orchard churns out some pretty amazing apple cider donuts. They are absolutely delicious and hot and sweet and soft and all the good things that you would imagine a cider donut to be. Get a dozen. Or several.
Apple Pies
Sky Top makes full apple pies and crisps and also individual baked apple hand pies. Everything is made from scratch. They also bake from-scratch apple bread and cookies, including a GF Snickerdoodle Cookie.
Pizza
Added in 2025, the Pie in the Sky Pizza shop is now a fixture at the orchard. The hand-tossed 14-inch pizzas are made to order at the orchard – cheese, pepperoni, or the Sky Top “Special” with mozzarella, prosciutto, and Sky Top apples. Giant salted pretzels served with apple butter or honey mustard are on the menu too, and hot dog combos are available on weekends in September and October. Karolyn has worked at the apple orchard for 18 years and she is the one who stretches out your pizza and makes the magic happen in the kitchen and just loves to serve guests. She’s loving the new pizza parlor! As a pizza snob myself, this pizza was pretty good. It was nice and cheesy and filling. Yum.
Apple Cider Doughnut Float
Introduced in 2025 and still on the Snack Shack menu, the Apple Cider Doughnut Float is a cider slushie with soft serve ice cream. This is absolutely delicious and is topped with a donut. Your eyes will eat this creation first as it’s so pretty. And it does not disappoint – absolutely a must-try at Sky Top.
Sky Top Apple Cider Slushie
Sparkling Cider
Yet another 2025 product is the sparkling cider made at Sky Top. I’m not a huge fan of sparkling water or soda but this….this I could drink every day. I don’t know what it was that made me want to have it all the time but it was darn good. The flavor is exactly like the apple cider sold at the orchard and the bubbles aren’t overpowering.
Farmers Market
The small farmers market inside the barn has some awesome items for sale: local honey right from the bees at the orchard, jams, and jellies. They also have pottery from local makers that is gorgeous and comes with apple recipes.
Field Trips & Private Events
Sky Top is the perfect spot for a fun field trip! The orchard also does a great job accommodating large groups with hayride tours, apple picking, and educational programs which teach kiddos everything they could want to know about how apples grow through the seasons. Their field trips are geared for ages 3-10 but they can certainly tailor the educational components to be suitable for middle and high schoolers. They can accommodate groups as large as 300 with advance planning. Tours run $11 per student and $11 per adult, two teachers per group of 20 students are admitted free, and there is a 20-person minimum to book.
And if you’re looking for a unique corporate event or something as delightful as a baby shower, Sky Top can host you and your group. They have a beautiful barn with plenty of seating and a stage for a covered space plus you’ve got the whole orchard to roam. Just contact them directly to arrange your event.
Accessibility & Crowds
Sky Top has massively improved their accessibility and crowd control. They have a brand new paved path that goes from the big barn at the entrance all the way down to the apple cannon. This makes managing a stroller or wheelchair a thousand times easier.
Making cider donuts
And while crowds can be an issue at any apple orchard during the fall season, Sky Top has spread out their space where you can purchase pre-paid bags at more than just one location. The pizza place and cider slushie spot are further apart and overflow parking are at multiple areas, just follow the signs.
Tips for visiting Sky Top
Be sure to check out Sky Top’s FAQs for tips before you visit.
They accept credit cards! While the donut shop still takes cash, as does the orchard, you can pay for everything with your credit card.
Weekdays are ideal for visiting Sky Top. Fall weekends can get really busy but the orchard is spread out so you may only have to wait a bit for their donuts (which is worth it).
Wear sneakers or other walking shoes that are okay to get dirty.
Sky Top has real bathrooms and a space to change a baby’s diaper in the family restroom. Yay!
Apple varieties are planted in accordance of when they are in season. They plant the earliest apples closest to the entrance and it progresses further away as the season goes on. In other words, the later in the season you visit the orchard, the further you will need to plan on walking to pick apples.
Pets on leash are allowed at the orchard but not inside the barn.
Visiting Sky Top Orchard
Here is their picking schedule (which lists available varieties). All the activities at the orchard are available seven days a week, not just weekends.
Sky Top Orchard is open daily, 9 am – 6 pm in September and 9 am – 5 pm in August, October, and November, seven days a week. They are open on Labor Day and Columbus Day and closed on Thanksgiving Day.
Do I need a reservation to pick apples at Sky Top Orchard?
For 2026, yes – if you want a guaranteed picking spot. Sky Top has introduced timed-entry u-pick tickets. Each $30 ticket includes one u-pick bag that up to five people can share, and new tickets are released every Wednesday at noon. Walk-up u-pick is available only if fruit remains. You don’t need a ticket to visit the market, bakery, pizza shop, playground, or attractions.
What are Sky Top Orchard’s hours?
The orchard is open daily from 9 am to 6 pm, seven days a week, with all attractions open weekdays and weekends. Sky Top is open on Labor Day and Veterans Day and closed on Thanksgiving Day.
How much do the activities at Sky Top cost?
Attractions are a la carte: the hayride is $3 per person (children under 2 are free), the apple cannon is $7 for 8 apples, the bee train is $4 per person, and gem mining is priced by bucket size. The playground, bamboo forest, and observation tower are free.
Where is Sky Top Orchard?
Sky Top Orchard is at 1193 Pinnacle Mountain Road, Zirconia, NC, just above Flat Rock – roughly 45 minutes from Greenville, SC and 40 minutes from Asheville. Look for the orchard’s sign at the intersection of Hwy 225 and Pinnacle Mountain Road.
Can I bring a stroller or bag into the u-pick area?
No. Strollers and personal backpacks, purses, and bags are not allowed in the picking fields, but there is stroller parking at the entrance to the u-pick area.
When is the best time to visit to avoid crowds?
Weekdays. The orchard itself notes that weekends during peak season – September and October – get busy, and recommends a weekday visit for a slower, more relaxed experience.
What happens if it rains?
Sky Top stays open rain or shine. During thunderstorms, u-pick may temporarily close.
Fall is just about here and you’re probably hunting the perfect activity to celebrate the season. Local mom Kristina loves Justus Orchard and is telling us why this is one fall road trip you’re going to make into your new family tradition. After all, Justus Orchard offers tons of fun activities for the kids and tasty treats too!
There are lots of great reasons to visit Justus Orchard in the gorgeous mountains of Hendersonville this fall: the apples are delicious, the scenery is peaceful and picturesque, the family who runs the business is very kind and have been running the orchard for four generations, and the apple cider donuts and slushies are delicious. I don’t even like donuts but put one of those in front of me and I’m not going to say no.
Justus Orchards is open every weekend for U-pick through mid-November. They have their delicious apple slushies, apple fritters, apple donuts, fried apple pies, and fruits and vegetables. They also have something new this year: an Apple Cider Float with Apple Crisp Crumbles on top! Yummy!
Their big playground is also open, plus all the farm activities like the cow train and a jumping pillow. They also have a beautiful tap room, another jumping pillow, and more additions to the play area.
I first went to Justus many years ago, only a few months after I first moved to the Upstate. Word was that if you wanted to go apple picking, go to Justus – so I took my then 3-year-old and newborn and went to get me some apples. It’s been one of my family’s favorite apple orchards ever since.
Easy Apple Picking
I think one of the more fun aspects of actually apple picking are the awesome wagons the orchard has where you can put your kids, uh, apples I mean. It makes it easier to cart everything around.
They also have a map for you to find your favorite apple varieties and have those giant sticks with a little cage at the top so you can grab apples from high in the trees. Their Facebook page and their apple ripening calendar are updated with the latest apple varieties that are in season, which makes it helpful for timing your visit.
The orchard also sells tons of just-picked apples so don’t feel you need to do all the hard work alone or with the little ones, who may tire out before you can fill up your basket. I also thought the pricing for the number of apples was very reasonable and inexpensive. Just have a bunch of good apple recipes for when you get home!
Mid-summer, the orchard opens for blackberry picking. They also have available blueberries, some apples, peaches, and of course, their delicious items from the bakery.
Kid-Friendly Activities at Justus Orchard
Justus Orchard seeks to make the experience of apple picking a memorable one for the whole family. They have two jumping pillows, a huge playground, a picnic area, cow train, and even apple canons.
Playground at the orchard
Justus Orchard has two jumping pillows plus two huge ball-throwing contraptions and corn hole. The views at the orchard are insanely gorgeous and the space is so inviting. There are places to sit and watch your kids or play with them and enjoy the orchard.
All kids activities and barn visits to the animals are $5/person, except the playground, which is free.
NOTE: Kids activities, apple cannons, and barn visits are only on weekends.
Jumping pillows
During the fall, there are a series of events on weekends, which you can learn about by watching their Facebook page.
Picking (and eating) the apples are a fun activity for children and there is lots of open space for them to run around before driving back home.
Tap Room
The beautiful tap room has locally made hard cider and beer in a totally enclosed standalone building. They have tables and chairs set up and they offer flights of cider, which is awesome.
Tap Room
The new tap room also has a covered patio right next to the big play area so you can sit and chill out drinking your hard cider while watching your kids get their energy out.
Indoor Bathrooms
Everyone can rejoice at the addition of indoor bathrooms at the orchard! The bathrooms are located near the entrance to the kids play area and tap room.
Apple Cider Donuts, Slushies, Pies & BBQ at Just Orchard
The Bakery House at the orchard sells all kinds of delectable apple goodies that you’ll want to try while you are there. They have, among other things, fried apple pies, apple slushies, caramel apples, apple fritters, apple pies, and even coffee.
They also sell apple peelers and contraptions to core an apple.
On weekends, a BBQ food truck sets up shop at the orchard so if you forget to pack a lunch, you can always chow down on some slow-cooked pork while taking in the mountain air.
Take your family to Justus Orchard
Always call ahead before you go just to make sure no extraneous things happened that affected their hours or apples. Be ready to start an awesome family tradition at Justus Orchard!
Justus Orchard Website 187 Garren Road, Hendersonville, NC Open Monday – Friday, 9 am – 5 pm; Saturday & Sunday 9 am – 6 pm 828.974.1232
Have you ever taken your kids apple picking at Justus Orchard?
If you’re headed up to Hendersonville, don’t miss our huge guide to Hendersonville, NC. It’s full of things to do, where to eat, and lots of free fun ideas.
🍽️What’s Inside: Explore the best restaurants in Greenville, SC, with our family-friendly guide to top dining spots, local favorites, and must-try cuisines for every craving, organized by category!
Whether you’re looking for highly rated restaurants in Greenville, SC or the Upstate, a tasty snack, or the perfect cup of coffee, this guide will be your go-to every time. We took all our restaurant content and put it right here so you can find exactly what you’re craving. You’ll want to bookmark this page for the next time you’re looking for places to eat in Greenville, SC.
We have restaurants with outdoor seating, food trucks, and delivery restaurants all on our lists at the top of this guide. Searching for a burger joint with great music, or maybe an epic fine dining experience with top southern cuisine and a fancy wine list? We have all of that.
Then you’ll find our lists by cuisine. Looking for tacos, no problem! Want southern food, pizza, or sushi? We have recommendations. Vegan? We have that, too.
This guide will also help you find the perfect restaurant for dining out with the kids or for a romantic date night. We weren’t kidding when we said this was the Ultimate Restaurant Guide to Greenville, South Carolina!
Discover Some of Greenville’s Favorite Restaurants
Many restaurants in Greenville, SC, offer some very unique dining options. Whether you’re looking for a place to dine outdoors, a family meal to go, or even the perfect restaurant with locally sourced ingredients, the lists below will help you out!
Best Places to Eat: Who Has KABOOM?
The KABOOM Awards are Kidding Around’s annual best of contest.
Restaurants with Outdoor Seating in Greenville, SC Feel like dining outdoors? This is the list you want. We have restaurants with shaded patios, restaurants with heated outdoor dining spaces, and lots more!
Family Meals To-Go in Greenville, SC Looking for a family meal deal? Lots of restaurants offer family meal deals that allow you to bring home a family-sized restaurant meal, often at a significant discount when compared to ordering something different for everyone.
Locally-Sourced Restaurants If you like meals cooked with local ingredients, this is the list for you. All the restaurants on this list source their ingredients locally wherever possible.
Locally-Owned Restaurants This is a gigantic list of locally-owned restaurants in Greenville, SC. They are one of a kind and delicious.
Food Trucks in Greenville, SC Food trucks offer delicious and often unique food to enjoy. Here is a list of food trucks in Greenville, SC, and where to find them!
Papi’s Tacos, Greenville, SC
Places to Eat Near Greenville, SC by City and Town
Looking for a restaurant in a specific area of Greenville, South Carolina, or in the Upstate? The upstate is quickly becoming one of the best hotspots for amazing dining in the United States, and it isn’t hard to see why. Here are our restaurant guides for the cities and towns across the Upstate.
Restaurants in Downtown Greenville, SC: Enjoy a meal and then stroll down Main Street or along the Reedy River in Falls Park. There’s no shortage of amazing dining and Southern Hospitality in the heart of Downtown Greenville. Use this guide to search out some local favorite restaurants and just maybe find your new go-to restaurant!
What are you craving today? Sushi, tacos, breakfast? How about some pizza or nachos? Find the perfect restaurant serving up what you are craving. This category has tons of options.
Mexican Food in Greenville Have a craving for Mexican food? Here’s a list of Mexican restaurants in Greenville for you to try!
Vegan and Vegetarian in Greenville, SC The restaurants on this list are all Vegan and Vegetarian-friendly places to dine. Many also have gluten free options.
Where to Get a Frozen Cocktail in Greenville, SC Grown-ups looking for a treat will want to check out this list of restaurants with frozen cocktails in Greenville, SC. Visit for happy hour or just an afternoon out with friends!
Local Greenville, SC Coffee Shops Is coffee considered a type of cuisine? It probably should be if it isn’t. Here are Greenville’s fabulous local coffee shops.
Food Hall Style Dining Locations in Greenville, SC
If you’re looking for a place to go that offers multiple restaurants in one location, these places below will do the trick. Find something for everyone at Food Halls with lots of restaurant options under one roof! The venues often have events like live music and trivia, craft events, shopping, and more.
Kid-Friendly Restaurants that aren’t Fast Food Want to take the kids out to a restaurant but don’t want fast food? Here are some kid-friendly sit-down restaurants where kids can really practice their table manners.
Time for a date night in Greenville, SC? These lists will help you find the perfect date night restaurant where you can order something delicious, maybe pop open a bottle of wine, and enjoy an evening out all to yourselves.
Restaurant Week in Greenville, SC, is a highly popular week-long event. It happens 2 times a year in Greenville and gives diners a fantastic opportunity to try a new restaurant while supporting local small businesses.
What new restaurants have opened in Greenville? Who has a new menu to try? What restaurant deals and events are coming up? Here’s our newest Greenville restaurant content.
Got a specific restaurant in mind? These restaurants in the greater Greenville area are organized alphabetically. Looking for something we missed? Please let us know in the comments below!
