Archive for the ‘Guides’ Category

Take a Road Trip to Medieval Times: Atlanta, Georgia

Have you taken your family to Medieval Times? Atlanta has one, and it is perfect for special occasions or a great day trip adventure, especially when you’re attempting to redeem the day. Medieval Times is located only 30 minutes from downtown Atlanta, and the show takes around 2-3 hours.

Perfect for a day trip where you can combine with other activities. Check out KA contributor Jennifer’s day trip to Medieval Times for the dinner tournament, and get started planning your next road trip to Atlanta, GA.

We take our children on family vacations because adventures and memories last longer than toys they outgrow. However, we have yet to take a family vacation where something unfortunate does not happen.

The trip started off well, but we had a tire blow on the interstate shortly outside of Atlanta. Thankfully, we were all safe. But, it did put some hiccups in our well-laid plans. After hours spent in a tire store and eating in chain restaurants that were not part of the agenda, we were tired, ill, and frustrated.

We decided we must redeem the day, so we called the nice folks at Medieval Times and asked to exchange our early dinner tickets for the later dinner show. With little ones along for the adventure, a show beginning at 7:30 p.m. would be pushing it for their bellies and their tired bodies. We prayed the kids would be awake enough to still enjoy it.

Our evening at Medieval Times: Atlanta, GA

Turns out, we had absolutely nothing to worry about! Our kids were alert and awake as soon as we drove up and saw the castle. The Medieval Times in Atlanta is in Sugarloaf Mills Mall in Lawrenceville, Georgia. This is located at a large outlet mall with stores, restaurants, and other activities. Medieval Times has a castle built out of the mall, which must be entered through a mall entrance. You’ll be whisked away to the 11th century once you leave the mall and enter the castle.

While we purchased tickets for the 7:30 p.m. show, the doors to the venue were opened slightly earlier. We joined the line to enter at 6:00 p.m. because the first ones to enter got the best seats in the house. When the time to enter comes, a trumpeter appears, along with the King and Princess to welcome the assembled crowd. My children could barely contain their excitement.

Things to Do Before Dinner in the Castle

Upon entering the castle, we were each given a green paper crown to cheer on the Green Knight. Pictures were taken, and then we were able to visit the castle areas.

Expect your little ones to want to visit the gift shop. There are souvenirs galore and drinks a plenty inside the castle. There is also a dungeon for brave souls to visit. Since there was a parental warning, we decided it would probably not be a wise decision to walk our little ones through the dungeon, but I did see many families come in and out of the dungeon doors.

After having such a rough day, we gave in to requests for knights’ helmets and princess hats immediately. The show is pricey itself, so be prepared for your children to want to add light-up wands, hats, swords, flags, and whatnot to the already large bill.

During the waiting time, you can shop, have a drink or snack, and watch various people be knighted by the king. This is an upgrade option for those who want the whole knighting experience. Even if you do not pay to be knighted, it is still fun to watch.

What to Expect During the Dinner Tournament at Medieval Times Atlanta

Minutes before the show, we were ushered into the jousting arena. You sit in stadium-like rows with tables in front in a round. Every seat has a great view of the dinner tournament.

The bill of fare includes your beverage, a piece of garlic toast, soup, rotisserie chicken, a roasted potato, corn, and dessert. The meal was delicious! However, there is one small thing you should know. Since you have gone back into “medieval times,” there are no utensils! You must eat everything with your hands. My son and daughter thought this was awesome! Don’t worry, parents – they provide moist wipes to clean up after your meal.

While eating, they put on an incredible show with knights, horses, and falcons. But, the big event is the dinner tournament where you watch the knights perform. The knights compete in a series of jousting events and fighting battles. They drop screens down in between the audience and knights as some of the weaponry is destroyed in the battle. You see sparks fly as swords clash and jousts splinter. You are encouraged to cheer on your knight and boo your opponent as loudly as possible.

With all the chaos of the morning, hearing my children scream, “We believe in you! You can do it!” and “Boo!” at the top of their lungs made all of the tire disaster worth it. I do not know the last time my kids have shown that much excitement. My son yelled for our knight to do a “Sneak attack!” and when a bad guy appeared, my daughter loudly shouted, “Get him outta here!”

Our Green Knight was not victorious, but it did not matter in the end. The whole arena came together to cheer on the good knight who was battling an evil one.

After the final battle, audience members can meet the knights and take pictures. This was a big hit for my star-struck children.

With hoarse voices and full bellies, we left the castle. Our children fell asleep with smiles on their faces before we ever made it out of the mall parking lot.

Things to Know Before Visiting Medieval Times Atlanta

For General Admission prices: $65.95 for adults | $38.95 for children 12 and under | Under 3 – Free if they sit with parents and do not order a meal

Times: Varies Depending on the day of the week | Saturdays generally have multiple show times (5:00 pm and 7:30 pm)

Length of time: 2-Hour Dinner Show | Castle opens 75 minutes before show time

Location

Medieval Times Atlanta Castle Website
Sugarloaf Mills Mall
5900 Sugarloaf Pkwy #517
Lawrenceville, GA 30043

Have your kids ever experienced Medieval Times?

Find More FUN!

Find lots more things to do in Atlanta!
We have a whole guide for that.

Great Atlanta Days Start Here: Things to Do in Atlanta, GA

Looking for more day trip ideas?
KA Guide to Day Trips Near Upstate, SC

Looking for a fun dinner and a show for your family? Look no further than Medieval Times in Atlanta, Georgia!

Spend the Day at Lake Hartwell State Park

Thinking about a day trip to Lake Hartwell State Park? Lake Hartwell State Park sits on the border of Georgia and South Carolina. Surrounded by 56,000 acres of lake, this state park is a fishing fanatic’s dream come true. Plus, you’ll find opportunities for hiking, swimming, camping and more. Enjoy the outdoors at Lake Hartwell State Park!

Quick Summary: Lake Hartwell State Park

Looking for a peaceful escape that’s still packed with adventure? Let us introduce you to Lake Hartwell State Park—a hidden treasure just over an hour from Greenville!

📍 Fair Play, SC
📅 Open daily, year-round
💵 $3 park admission (ages 6+)

What makes this spot so special? It’s 56,000 acres of lakefront beauty with plenty to do (or not do—no judgment if you just want to hammock under the trees).

Here’s what you can enjoy:

🎣 Fishing – Drop a line from the 140’ dock or borrow gear from the Tackle Loaner Program
🛶 Boating – Bring your own boat to explore the lake from one of 2 ramps
🌲 Hiking – Try the 0.7-mile Beech Bluff Trail
🏕 Camping – Tent, RV, or cozy lakeside cabins (Cabins 1 & 2 have sweet little beaches!)
🐦 Birdwatching – Keep your eyes out for birds of prey!

Activities Available at Lake Hartwell State Park

Lake Hartwell State Park offers daytime visitors several different activities to enjoy. You can plan to do a bunch, or just tie up a hammock to the trees that line the lake and do nothing!

If activities are what you are looking for, the park offers the following:

Bird Watching
Enjoy watching birds of prey circle over the lake in search of a delicious meal. Birds can also be viewed while hiking the trail within the park.

Boating
There are 2 boat ramps and a boat dock, for those that own boats and want to explore the 56,000 acre Lake Hartwell. There are no boat rental options within the park.

For boat rental options on upstate lakes, see our Guide To Boat Safety and Rentals on Upstate Lakes.

Fishing
The fishing in Lake Hartwell is top-notch! The lake has been the location of national competitions. Try your hand at fishing for largemouth bass, crappie, bream, stripers, hybrid bass, and catfish. The park has a 140’ fishing dock to drop a hook from.

No rod? No problem! Grab a rod and some tackle from the Tackle Loaner Program and while you’re there, grab a Junior Ranger packet for your children to complete.

Practicing catch and release is recommended at Lake Hartwell. Due to high levels of pollutant in the water, eating the fish harvested from Lake Hartwell isn’t advised by DHEC.

*A valid South Carolina fishing license is required

Swimming
While swimming is permitted, there are no lifeguards.

Hiking
BEECH BLUFF TRAIL
Length: 0.7 miles / 1.2 miles if you form a loop and return on the road

Playground
There’s a small playground adjacent to the boat slip.

Camping At Lake Hartwell State Park

The park offers guests several options for camping:

Camper Cabins
These single-room cabins are 12 x 12. They include one set of bunk beds, and one double bed.

You will enjoy the view from a six-foot front porch facing the lake, heating and air conditioning, indoor lights, electrical outlets, and Wi-Fi. There are fire rings and grills. They are a great option if you don’t have a tent, or the weather requires more protection from the elements.

Most camping cabins have a two-night minimum. Follow SC State Parks on their social media pages because sometimes they offer some good deals on these (that’s how we ended up staying at one). Several of the camping cabins are pet-friendly but there are others, like #3 where we stayed, that don’t allow pets.

Camping cabins 1-5 have closer access to the water than others. Cabins 1 and 2 have a small beach in front of them that is very peaceful and has a beautiful view.

Campsites
Tent Sites and RV pads include electrical and water hookups. Pets are allowed in the camping area, but must remain leashed.

They range from $19 – $36 a night with a 2-night minimum stay, unless there is only one-night availability on the calendar.

Lake Hartwell State Park website
19138 – A Hwy 11 South, Fair Play | 864.972.3352

Office Hours
April-October | 9 am – 5 pm
November – March | 11 am – 12 pm & 4 pm – 5 pm

Looking for more SC State Parks to visit? Here’s our guide to all 47 South Carolina State Parks and our highlights of Upstate SC State Parks.

Upstate Lakes for swimming, boating, fishing and more!

Go to the lake! These recreational lakes offer all the fun lake things, like swimming, boating, fishing, and fun!

Our KAG Guide to Lakes in the Upstate

Visit Lake Hartwell State Park where you can swim, camp, and have fun!

Admission
*Free with SC State Park Passports
$3 – Adults
$1.50 – SC seniors
$1 – Children ages 6-15
FREE – Children ages 5 & younger

Core Memories Begin Here: Plan Your Family Adventure to Fripp Island Resort

Fripp Island Golf & Beach Resort isn’t just another family vacation to a golf resort- it is a reimagined Lowcountry escape where your family can immerse themselves in nature and resort amenities. Our family spent a few unforgettable days exploring the island, and were enchanted by the moss-draped oaks, free-roaming deer, and pristine beaches that left us filled with wonder and joy, along with lasting memories. Use our review to help you plan your own memory-making vacation to Fripp Island!

Special Thanks to Fripp Island Golf & Beach Resort, along with Buffalo Groupe, for hosting our family on the island!

About Fripp Island Beach & Golf Resort

The Wildlife

The Beaches at Fripp Island

The Resort Pools

The Activity Center

Fripp Island SC Rentals

Dining at Fripp Island Resort

What is Fripp Island Resort?

Fripp Island, a private island in the Lowcountry of South Carolina, is situated just east of Beaufort. One of a string of barrier islands along the coast, Fripp offers over 3.5 miles of uncrowded sandy beaches, rental homes, and two scenic golf courses – Ocean Point and Ocean Creek- that span the entire island.

There are 10 restaurants, a racquet club, an equestrian center, a marina center, and a fantastic activity center with special activities daily!

There are no hotels on Fripp, but visitors can stay in beautiful beach houses, villas, or condos—many of which are uniquely decorated and privately owned.

🌟Tip: We recommend renting a golf cart from the resort or bringing your own from home when you visit the island. This is the easiest and safest way to travel around the island. Plus, it is so much fun, especially for kids! Our six-year-old said that riding the golf cart around was her number 1 favorite thing about our trip, go figure.

A Resort in Harmony with Nature: The Wildlife

Fripp Island Resort is a haven for vacationers who love nature but still want comfort and convenience. Not only is the resort clean and organized, but it is also home to an abundance of wildlife.

The Famous Deer on Fripp Island

After entering the island’s security gates, you will almost immediately see a deer or two grazing in the grass. The island is known for them, and it is a very unique experience! The docile deer can be seen throughout the island, hanging out by the roadside, and even from your back porch, munching away and living their best lives. We counted at least 50 just cruising around on our golf cart, but it was cool to see one traveling across the dunes. Our daughters were thrilled to spot baby fawns up close—it felt like something out of a storybook.

Alligators

In addition to deer, you may see a couple of the 160+ alligators that call the island home. Most of the ones that we saw were only a foot or two long, but we did get a distant view of a couple that were 5- 10 feet long, including Arthur and Gwen (located in the ponds off Ocean Creek Boulevard). Signage is posted throughout the island to remind visitors to keep a safe distance, especially with small kids. Your golf cart makes for a great (and safe) observation platform.

Other Wildlife You May See

During our trip, we saw a greater variety of wildlife than I have ever seen in person. From herons, vultures, egrets, and other seabirds, to crabs, snakes, raccoons, we were always on the hunt for the next things to see. We even got to see a bald eagle on the beach take flight. Core memory made!

Nature Boardwalks Through the Marsh

Aside from a quick drive around the island on a golf cart to view wildlife, there are several boardwalks through the marsh that will give you a much better view. We were invited to take a marsh tour with a fantastic and highly knowledgeable naturalist, Hannah. It was the best way to start our trip.

We learned so much, and Hannah was so engaged with our children that it made the experience educational and fun. We saw a feeding egret, tons of crabs and clams, learned about the ecology and native flora and fauna of a marsh in the Lowcountry, and even got to taste a plant called a “salty sea pickle”.

I highly recommend the guided marsh walk, but you can also ride your bikes or take a self-guided walk through one as a great morning or evening activity.

🌟Tip: Walk the marsh boardwalks at both low and high tide to see a dramatic difference! We learned during our guided marsh walk that the island has the highest tides in the entire United States.

Marsh Walk: Fripp Island Beach and Golf Resort

The Beaches at Fripp Island Resort

Unlike other popular SC beaches, Fripp’s shorelines are peaceful and uncrowded—even during busier months. You’ll have plenty of space to stretch out, search for shells, or simply relax.

During our beach time, we saw a lot of cannonball jellyfish- which do not sting- along the shoreline. During calmer water days, you may even see dolphins swimming off the coastline. We saw a variety of seabirds, including the large groups of brown pelicans, which were a treat every time they came by. Our kids loved searching for shells, which is a rite of passage in my book.

The beaches at Fripp Island do not have lifeguards, so be cautious when entering the water and watch for signs of wildlife or rip currents, which occur regularly off the SC coast.

Beach Access: Fripp Island

There are 32 beach access points across Fripp Island, so you can choose the same spot each time you visit, or switch it up and explore the different entry points. We enjoyed beach access #21 and #25.

Tent and Umbrella Rentals

The beach does allow umbrellas and tents, which is perfect for shade. You can make reservations with The Beach Hut, where you can rent chairs and umbrellas (along with a variety of other beach items). Reserve ahead of time!

The Fripp Island Resort Pools

There is not just one pool you can access, there are nine pools on the island! You will find them at the five separate complexes, including the Beach Club, Olympic, Marina, Ocean Point, and Cabana Club. We visited the pools at The Cabana Club and the Olympic Pool at the Beach Club, and they were perfect for our kids and us to play for most of the day.

Our personal favorite was the pools at The Cabana Club near Veranda Beach. This pool has a fantastic location, with views of Skull Inlet and Pritchard’s Island as your backdrop. There are three pools at The Cabana Club, one of which is heated. We visited during early May, so it was nice to enjoy a swim without the bite of cold water.

The Cabana Club pool at Fripp Island Resort

The lagoon pool at the club was gorgeous! There were carved-out structures and caves with little waterfalls throughout, it was by far my six-year-old’s favorite pool. A small children’s pool with a cute frog slide is located at the back of The Cabana Club, perfect for our three-year-old to safely splash and play.

The Beach Club at the center of the island offers an Olympic-style pool that is also heated until Thanksgiving, so you can enjoy a swim or get some exercise while there.

The Fripp Island Activity Center Should Be Your Daily Stop

The Fripp Island Activity Center is the place to go if you have younger kids. There is something to do every single day of the week. Some of the activities are free, including a meet and greet with the animals. There are also a couple of really neat reptiles upstairs at the activity center you can view and learn about for free.

Making Fripp Island Tie Dye Souvenirs at the Activity Center — Tie Dye Souvenirs

We loved Gatorology—a class and tour led by naturalist Hannah, that included learning about alligators and safely spotting them in the wild. Our kids even got to meet and touch a resident gator. So neat!

Other activities, like crafting, golf course scavenger hunt, tie dying, guided marsh walks, and more, cost a fee ranging from $6 – $15. Here is where you can also go to experience Marsh Kayaking (~$60-$80) or Island Bike Adventure (~$35).

Our entire family loved these activities, especially since a lot of them could be experienced indoors. We had a good bit of rain during our visit to Fripp, but these activities kept our kids engaged and having fun.

For 2025, during the summer months, kids ages 5 – 15 can join Camp Fripp for half-day or full-day camp and become a Junior Naturalist. While they are at camp, you can grab breakfast with your partner at The Beach Club!

Fripp Island SC Rentals: Homes, Condos, and Villas

There are several options for Fripp Island rentals at the resort, depending on availability and your budget. For smaller families, the villas would make a great affordable option for your vacation. The Villas are close to the center of the island, near The Beach Club, the arcade, and the Olympic Pool, so you’re right near a lot of the activity.

If you are staying with family or a group of friends, we recommend splitting a home for the week. Most rates during the summer are by the week, so keep that in mind when booking.

We were invited to stay at a lovely vacation rental off of Veranda Road on the south end of the island, and it was a fantastic experience. The home was gorgeous, and the back porch had a direct view of a pond. Our daughter woke us up one morning to see that a large group of egrets were hanging out in the pond, only about 30 feet from our bedroom window!

🌟Tip: Book ahead of time so you can stay where you love! Homes on the northern side of the island may offer views of the Hunting Island State Park, while southern homes may be able to see Prichards Island.

Dining at Fripp Island Beach & Golf Resort

There are several restaurants right on the island, so you do not have to travel far to grab breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

The Beach Club (Great for breakfast). My husband enjoyed the Banging Burrito, so much so that he ate it for breakfast every day. The kids both loved the waffles, which they loaded with fruit and whipped cream. We dined in and carried out, and both experiences were great.

Bonito Boathouse (Fantastic dinner views). The beautiful views of the waterways and the boats will keep your kids calm for dinner while you enjoy your meal. We were even treated to a pod of dolphins passing by while we ate our dinner!

Island Bites (Great for quick eats). If you are looking for a quick bite to eat or lunch for picky eaters, then Island Bites is where to go. You can get fries, chicken nuggets, coffee, ice cream, and all the treats.

Breakfast at the Beach Club — Delicious Food: Beach Club @ Fripp Island

Bonito Boathouse: Fripp Island — Delicious Food: Beach Club @ Fripp Island

Key Things to Know Before You Go

There are a lot of wild animals, so be cautious and follow all the rules about the local wildlife. There are signs posted at every location where alligators may be hanging out.
Bring bug spray, as the marsh environment is a breeding ground for bugs of all kinds.
When you arrive, you will need to check in with security and receive a parking permit for the duration of your stay. This will help you enter and exit the island without issue.
Booking your rental ahead of time is key.
There are no lifeguards on the beach. Come prepared with life jackets for children if they need them.

Fripp Island Golf & Beach Resort far exceeded our expectations. It’s a place where kids can connect with nature, parents can relax, and families can make genuine, lasting memories. Whether you’re spotting deer, walking through the marsh, or splashing in a waterfall pool, Fripp makes magic happen.

Visit A Toy Store With An Indoor Playground in Knoxville, Tennessee!

Inside: A local mom visits Smart Toys and Books, a Knoxville toy store with an indoor playground for kids to explore!

Have you ever visited a toy store that has an indoor playground? This toy store has an indoor playground for kids, and our family loved it! Smart Toys and Books in Knoxville, Tennessee, is a must-visit, especially on a rainy day or even a really warm summer day when you want to cool off for a bit!

Knoxville, Tennessee, is right at 3 hours away from Greenville, SC. You can easily take a day trip to Knoxville and spend a whole day exploring all the area has to offer.

Quick Summary: Play Indoors at Smart Toys & Books in Knoxville, TN

Visit a toy store with an indoor playground!
Smart Toys and Books is where you can learn, shop, and play!
Play for 2 hours starting at $7-$10 per child.

Learn, Shop & Play At Smart Toys and Books

Smart Toys and Books is not just your average toy store. Recently, they ranked #14 on The Best Toy Stores in the USA by TimeOut Media Company (read the article on the TimeOut Website). They offer a large showroom full of educational toys, books, and games. You can find a lot of hands-on STEM toys, children’s books, scooters, stuffed animals, costumes, and more.

Not only can you shop for toys here, but you can take classes, have a birthday party, and play on their large indoor playground. They offer art classes and music classes every week and other special events, so be sure to check their calendar. You can host a birthday party by purchasing their package, which starts at $329 with add-ons available.

The Indoor Playground Experience

The indoor playground features over 2,000 square feet of fun. You will find a large pirate ship to explore, slides, an obstacle course, a toddlers-only area, and more! Smart Toys and Books offers two options for enjoying their indoor playground. You can play for a two-hour increment during their open play times, which are available Monday through Friday at the times listed below. Additionally, you can purchase play passes if you want to pay for several play times in advance. Either way, you HAVE to call and reserve a spot as they only allow so many participants at a time. Here’s what to expect:

Pirate ship indoor play space in Knoxville, TN

Regular play hours are Monday through Friday at three different two-hour time blocks to choose from. You can play from 10 am to 12 pm, 1 pm to 3 pm, and/or 4 pm to 6 pm. Saturday sessions are announced on a weekly basis if birthday parties are not being held there. They are closed on Sundays.
Regular Play Admission: $10.00 for the first child, $7.00 for the second child, and then it starts over again at $10 for the next child and so on, depending on how many children you have. So, for example, four children would be $35. Children under 2 are $7 each or FREE if with a paid sibling.
Play Passes: These passes can be purchased if you don’t want to pay per visit. You can get a 10, 20, or 50-play pass depending on what you want. These passes start at $80 per person. Even with a play pass, you still have to reserve a time to play by calling them.
You HAVE to call ahead and reserve a time slot to play, whether you’re a member or not, due to the playground filling up. This prevents you from not being able to play if they are at capacity.
Everyone must sign a waiver before playing on the indoor playground.
You MUST wear socks while playing. If you forget, you can purchase a pair there for $3.49.

Smart Toys and Books Location

Smart Toys and Books Website

Address: 9700 Kingston Pike, Suite 12, Knoxville, TN 37922
Phone Number: Phone: (865) 394-6060
Email: info@smarttoysandbooks.com
Open Monday through Saturday, 10 am to 6 pm

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

The Ultimate Guide to Parks in Spartanburg, SC

Inside: A list of parks and playgrounds in Spartanburg County, with parent reviews, tips, and all the information you need for a great family trip to the park.

Looking for a park near you? Here are all the parks in Spartanburg County, SC. You will find family-friendly parks, parks with trails, shaded and sunny parks, and more!

This page is part of the Greater Greenville Area Ultimate Park Guide. Head there for more parks that you can sort by location, feature, amenities, and more.

Our Favorite Spartanburg Parks

To kick things off, here are a couple of Spartanburg park highlights.

5 excellent playgrounds in Spartanburg, South Carolina

Where are the best playgrounds in Spartanburg?
Well, here’s what we think.

Spartanburg’s Best Playgrounds

Want more? These top parks and playgrounds in Spartanburg have green spaces, picnic spots, play spaces, and more.

Lyman Park Playground — Tyger River Playground

Get them all! Parks in Spartanburg County

Anchor Park

8515 Highway 9, Inman , SC

Parent Review of Anchor Park

Two playgrounds at Anchor Park on Lake Bowen.

Perfect for a sunny day, Anchor Park at Lake Bowen offers tons of shade and beautiful views with an enclosed playground.

This park includes:

Boat Ramp
Fishing
Grill
Picnic Shelter
Playground
Restrooms
Swings

Holston Creek Park

7561 New Cut Road, Spartanburg , SC

Parent Review of Holston Creek Park

Offering mountain views and fishing, this park is located in Inman.

This park includes:

Parking
A 27-hole disc golf course
A fishing pond
A large picnic shelter
Restrooms
A mountain bike course
Multipurpose field
A playground
Two full-sized baseball/softball fields

Linville Hills Park

1211 Old Anderson Mill Road, Moore , SC

Parent Review of Linville Hills Park

Playground at Linville Hills Park in Moore, SC.

This community park is located in Moore.

This park includes:

Green Space
Grill
Parking
Picnic Shelter
Playground
Swings
Trails

Rail Yard Community Park

226 S Spring Street, Spartanburg , SC

Rail Yard Community Park Website

Rail Yard Community Park features the Panthers Play 60 playground, an amphitheatre, the Vic Baily Bike Park, and Trolley Plaza.

The Panthers Play 60 playground is an NFL-themed obstacle course. If your kid likes a good ninja warrior course, you’ll want to check this one out.

The playground includes:

obstacle course equipment
turf ground covering
covered picnic area

Located in Rail Yard Community Park, along the Mary Black Rail Trail.

Downtown Library Park

151 S Church Street, Spartanburg , SC

Parent Review of Downtown Library Park

Located at Headquarters Library outside of the children’s department, this is a fully enclosed playground. You may only access the playground through the library, so it is only open library hours.

This park offers:

Parking
Playground
Restrooms
Tables

River Place Park

, SC

Parent Review of River Place Park

River Place Park is located right behind Middle Tyger Library, with free public parking available in the library parking lot.

Scenic bridge over Tyger River
Waterside access for wading
Natural sand
Picnic tables and benches
Restrooms inside the library, when open

Stoneledge Park

119 S Spencer Street, Duncan , SC

Parent Review of Stoneledge Park

This park is located in Duncan near Shipwreck Cove Water Park.

This park includes:

Parking
Picnic Shelter
Playground
Restrooms
Swings

St. Matthews Park

St. Matthews Lane, Spartanburg , SC

This new park is located behind St. Matthews Episcopal.

This park includes:

Parking
Picnic Tables
Playground
Swings

Lyman Park

81 Groce Road, Lyman , SC

Parent Review of Lyman Park

This park is located Lyman Town Hall.

This park includes:

Green Space
Parking
Playground
Restrooms
Swings
Trails

Barnet Park

248 E Saint John Street, Spartanburg , SC

Parent Review of Barnet Park

Located in the heart of downtown Spartanburg, Barnet Park is an urban green space where local events are held. While it does not have a playground, it does have a splash pad during the summer months.

This park includes:

Green Space
Parking
Picnic Shelter
Restrooms
Splash Pad
Trails

Sealy Park

22 Buice Street, Inman , SC

This small neighborhood park in Inman does not have a playground, but it does have swings.

This park includes:

Grill
Picnic Tables
Swings

Boiling Springs Community Park

182 Rainbow Lake Road, Boiling Springs , SC

Parent Review of Boiling Springs Community Park

Located by Walmart and the fire station, this park is an enclosed space in the middle of all the Boiling Springs action.

This park includes:

Green Space
Parking
Picnic Tables
Playground
Swings
Trails

Happy Hollow Park

Glendalyn Avenue, Spartanburg , SC

Parent Review of Happy Hollow Park

Located in the middle of the Converse Heights neighborhood, this shaded park is enclosed but does not have much parking or any restrooms.

This park includes:

Green Space
Picnic Shelter
Playground
Swings

Gordon Henry Park

209 S Linda Street, Cowpens , SC

This park is located near downtown Cowpens.

This park includes:

Baseball/Softball Field
Grill
Outdoor Basketball Court
Parking
Picnic Shelter
Playground
Restrooms
Swings
Tennis Court

Croft State Park

450 Croft State Park Road, Spartanburg , SC

Parent Review of Croft State Park

Croft State Park is over 7000 acres and offers everything from a playground to hiking and biking trails. As a state park, there is an admission fee: $3 for adults over the age of 15, $1.50 for seniors, $1 for kids ages 6-15, and free for children age 5 and under.

This park includes:

Bicycle Trail (Mountain)
Boat Ramp
Campground
Fishing
Grill
Parking
Picnic Shelter
Restrooms
Trails

Tyger River Park

179 Dillard Road, Duncan , SC

Parent Review of Tyger River Park

Playground at Tyger River Park in Duncan, SC.

Once you have parked in one of the large parking lots, walk towards the tower in the center of the park and you will come across sunny playgrounds, a huge sand pit and even a wonderful splash pad.

Paved walking trail, picnic shelter, splash pad, baseball, frisbee golf, sand pit
Sunny playgrounds
Restrooms
Free parking lots

Play on Main at Denny's

15 S Liberty St, Spartanburg , SC

Play on Main is the playground for Meeting Street School, located on Main Street in Downtown Spartanburg. It is open to the public when school is not in session during daylight hours. The park has a solid surface rubber ground throughout, with unique climbing structures including ropes, hanging platforms, chain bridge, and more.

This park includes:

Fenced playground with latched gate.
Rubber surface
Unique climbing structures
Swings, including parent/child swing for parents with babies and parents with special needs children
Musical instrument space

There are no restrooms at this park, but public restrooms are located across the street.

295 Park

2100 Southport Road, Spartanburg , SC

This park includes:

Baseball/Softball Field
Picnic Tables
Playground
Restrooms

Pacolet Park

475 Sunny Acres Road, Pacolet , SC

This park includes:

Baseball/Softball Field
Green Space
Parking
Picnic Shelter
Playground
Restrooms

North Spartanburg Park

1160 Old Furnace Road, Boiling Springs , SC

Parent Review of North Spartanburg Park

Home to a fully accessible playground, this park is located in Boiling Springs.

This park includes:

Baseball/Softball Field
Bicycle Motocross (BMX)
Outdoor Fitness Equipment
Parking
Picnic Shelter
Playground
Restrooms
Swings
Trails

South Converse Street Park

E Hampton Avenue, Spartanburg , SC

This updated park is close to downtown Spartanburg.

This park includes:

Green Space
Grill
Outdoor Basketball Court
Parking
Picnic Shelter
Playground
Swings
Trails

Croftstone Park

118 Broughton Drive, Greenville , SC

This quiet, neighborhood park has a sand pit with a digger, basketball court, swings and a shady playground.

Basketball, sand pit
Shady playground, swings
No restrooms
Parking area for two cars

Lake Cooley Park

100 Cooley Dock Road, Inman , SC

Lake Cooley Park Website

This park opened in 2019 and offers beautiful lake and mountain views from the playground area.

This park includes:

Boat Ramp
Community Center
Fishing
Grill
Parking
Picnic Shelter
Restrooms

Leroy Mathis Park

50 Bishop Street, Inman , SC

Parent Review of Leroy Mathis Park

Newly renovated, Leroy Mathis Park is located in Inman.
Here’s our Kidding Around Review of Leroy Mathis Park.

This park includes:

Grill
Outdoor Fitness Equipment
Parking
Picnic Shelter
Playground
Restrooms
Swings
Trails

Chesnee Park

332 E Union Street, Chesnee , SC

Parent Review of Chesnee Park

This park by the Chesnee Community Center is used for sports games and tournaments; however, it does have a playground.

This park includes:

Baseball/Softball Field
Parking
Picnic Tables
Playground
Restrooms

Cleveland Park in Spartanburg

141 N. Cleveland Park Drive, Spartanburg , SC

Parent Review of Cleveland Park

Just off of Ashville Highway and right inside the city limits of Spartanburg is Cleveland Park, a large, beautiful old park with a great playground.

This park includes:

playground
restrooms
paved paths
water features

Inman Mills Park

251 4th Street, Inman , SC

Generally used for youth baseball and softball, this park does include a playground.

This park includes:

Baseball/Softball Field
Green Space
Grill
Outdoor Basketball Court
Parking
Picnic Shelter
Playground
Restrooms
Swings

Hillcrest Park

1450 Park Drive, Spartanburg , SC

Playground with slides, stairs, and bridge on mulch surfacing and surrounded by trees

This small park is located in the Hillcrest neighborhood.

This park includes:

Grill
Picnic Shelter
Playground

Irwin Park

S Irwin Avenue, Spartanburg , SC

Irwin Park is a 14-acre neighborhood park.

This park includes:

Baseball/Softball Field
Outdoor Basketball Court
Parking
Picnic Shelter
Playground

Arkwright Park

423 Sims Chapel Road, Spartanburg , SC

This park includes:

Green Space
Grill
Outdoor Basketball Court
Parking
Picnic Shelter
Picnic Tables
Playground
Swings
Trails

Priscilla Rumley Park

100 Alexander Avenue, Spartanburg , SC

Located on the southside of Spartanburg, this park is near Mary H Wright Greenway.

This park includes:

Grill
Outdoor Basketball Court
Picnic Shelter
Playground

Gib Gosnell Park

117 Lanford Street, Campobello , SC

Gib Gosnell Park is located in and maintained by the City of Campobello.

This park includes:

Baseball Diamond
Basketball Court
Parking
Picnic Shelter
Playground
Restrooms
Swings

Summer Hill Park

311 Hillandale Road, Spartanburg , SC

This is a small park in the Summer Hill neighborhood.

This park includes:

Grill
Outdoor Basketball Court
Picnic Shelter
Playground

Brookwood Park

199 South Bomar Avenue, Landrum , SC

Parent Review of Brookwood Park

Brookwood Park Playground in Landrum, SC

This shaded park is located in Landrum’s business district.

This park includes:

Green Space
Grill
Outdoor Fitness Equipment
Parking
Picnic Shelter
Playground
Restrooms
Swings
Trails

Chapel Street Park

104 Chapel Street, Spartanburg , SC

This park is located at the intersection of Chapel Street and Asheville Highway in Spartanburg.

This park includes:

Grill
Outdoor Basketball Court
Picnic Shelter
Playground

Duncan Park

81 W Park Drive, Spartanburg , SC

Duncan Park is both the site of a lake and a former minor league baseball stadium.

This park includes:

Baseball/Softball Field
Mountain Biking Trails
Green Space
Grill
Parking
Picnic Shelter
Playground
Restrooms
Tennis Courts
Trails

Stewart Park

500 Highland Avenue, Spartanburg , SC

Parent Review of Stewart Park

Stewart Park is a large park that includes a splash pad during the summer months and is located close to the Beacon.

This park includes:

Multi-Purpose Field
Outdoor Basketball Court
Parking
Picnic Shelter
Playground
Restrooms
Splash Pad
Swings
Trails

Willow Oaks Park

194 W. Hampton Street, Spartanburg , SC

This neighborhood park is located in Hampton Heights.

This park includes:

Green Space
Grill
Playground
Swings

Bryant Road Park

2427 Bryant Park Road, Chesnee , SC

Ropes-based playground with climbing domes, rope bridge, hammocks, saucer swing, and shaded seating

Bryant Road Park is a gated athletic complex in Chesnee, SC near the Boiling Springs and Inman areas.

This park includes…

Baseball/softball fields
Football fields
Soccer field
Ropes-based playground
Concessions during athletic events
Public restrooms during open hours

Airport Park

500 Ammons Road, Spartanburg , SC

Parent Review of Airport Park

This is a well-loved park year-round in Spartanburg where kids can play on airport-themed equipment and watch the planes overhead. During the summer, there is also a splash pad.

This park includes:

Parking
Picnic Shelter
Playground
Restrooms
Splash pad (summer only)
Swings
Trails

Little Africa Park

1701 Little Africa Road, Chesnee , SC

Located in Chesnee, this is a small community park.

This park includes:

Baseball/Softball Field
Grill
Parking
Picnic Shelter
Playground
Restrooms

C.C. Woodson Community Center and Playground

210 Bomar Ave, Spartanburg , SC

C.C. Woodson Community Center Website

The C.C. Woodson Community Center has a playground and swimming pool. Swimming is available for $1-3 per person during open swim times. The playground, which is behind the center and accessed by the community center parking lot or along Sunny Street, features one large climbing structure along side obstacle course components to climb and jump.

This playground includes:

Sun! There is very little shade.
The playground has mulched ground cover
Large climbing structure
Parking lot or street parking
Swimming is available through the community center (Youth city resident: Free, Youth non resident: $1, Adult resident: $2, Adult non-resident: $3)

Beaumont Park

, SC

This cute neighborhood park in Beaumont Mill Village is brand new.

This park includes:

Picnic tables (large and child sized)
Small musical instrument station
Playground
Street Parking

Tiger Park

650 Howard Street, Spartanburg , SC

Dr. T.K. Gregg Community Center Website

Tiger Park is located at the Dr. T.K. Gregg Community Center.

Wards Creek Park

1 Elmer Street, Greer , SC

This park is located in Greer.

This park includes:

Outdoor Basketball Court
Picnic Shelter
Playground

Spartanburg Parks and Playgrounds, Spartanburg, SC

This page is part of the Greater Greenville Area Ultimate Park Guide. Head there for more parks that you can sort by location, feature, amenities, and more.

There are lots more fun things to in Spartanburg! Get the full list of Spartanburg Fun and go Kidding Around Spartanburg.

Sadlers Creek State Park: Fishing and Swimming Spots Abound in this Anderson Park, SC

Inside: A local mom visits Sadlers Creek State Park and shares all the details and things to love!

Have you visited Sadlers Creek State Park? There are 47 South Carolina State Parks and many are definitely worth the drive from Greenville. KAG Contributor Andrea Beam is exploring the state parks across South Carolina. After she visited Sadlers Creek State Park she wanted to share her visit with our readers. We think you’ll love the beautiful scenery and amenities of this state park in Anderson, SC.

Boating and Swimming at Sadlers Creek

Two docks provide access to Lake Hartwell for private boats, kayaks, canoes, and other paddle sports.

You are permitted to swim at-your-own risk in Lake Hartwell. There are no designated swim areas or lifeguards.

Sadlers Creek Fishing Pier

A paved walkway leading down to the 100-foot pier makes this spot easily accessible for fishermen (or visitors). The day we were there, the roads and parking lots were covered in leaves. The ramp to the pier was exceptionally clean and free of leaves – groundskeepers had obviously been hard at work.

The park sits on Lake Hartwell, a man-made lake named after Revolutionary War heroin Nancy Hart. Army Corps of Engineers operates the dam. Interpretative signs with information about Lake Hartwell and fish facts are placed near the pier. The sign, made possible by a donation from the Bosch Foundation, also teaches which fish are safe to eat and how to prepare them.

Fishing Equipment for Free at Sadlers Creek

Sadlers Creek State Park also participates in the Tackle Loaner Program which allows you to borrow basic fishing equipment from the park office for free.

Hiking at Sadlers Creek

If you like to hike, you will enjoy Pine Grove Nature Trail. Bikers can explore Sadlers Creek on bike trails throughout the park. A half-mile paved path winds through the woods from the park office to the pier. Handrails and benches dot the path. Visitors with walkers and/or wheelchairs can relish the total park experience here.

Educational signs along the trail teach about animal habitats and plants. This feature fit perfectly into my science curriculum for my homeschooled son.

Child on the nature trail at Saddlers Creek State Park

Camping at Sadlers Creek

Three campground loops provide space for campers of all kinds. Lakefront campsites provide spectacular views. A primitive tent area is available for organized groups. We’re excited to pitch our tent in this park. We’ll just have to wait until the campground is next to empty. For some reason, I thought it would be a good idea to purchase the Biltmore House of tents. <Insert all the eye rolls>

Day guests can picnic in shaded areas with playgrounds, including a horseshoe pit and volleyball court. Bathhouses are located next to recreational spaces. Two picnic shelters can be rented for large group gatherings. A lakefront pavilion is covered and paved, with lots of picnic tables and a huge handicapped-accessible restroom. We were especially impressed with the cleanliness of this entire section.

Sadlers Creek State Park Website
940 Sadlers Creek Road, Anderson, SC

Admission: $3/ages 16+, $1/age 6-15, Free/age 5 and under, $1.50/seniors

Have you visited Sadlers Creek?

Love SC State Parks as much as we do?

Be sure to check out Kidding Around Greenville’s State Park Guide to All 47 State Parks!

Are you looking for more fun things to do in Anderson, SC? Check out our Kidding Around Review of Kid Venture 2.0 in Anderson, SC!

This article was originally written by Andrea Beam and has been updated by the Kidding Around Team.

Nail Salon Showdown: Finding the Best Spots in Greenville, SC

Are you looking for a nail salon in Greenville? Our readers have provided us with all their favorite Greenville nail salons. Look through the list and find the perfect place to get your hands pampered.

Top Nail Salons in Greenville, South Carolina

If there is a way to get in some quick R&R without going too far, a nail salon is a great choice. Whether it’s just a quick manicure or a relaxing spa pedicure, taking the time to escape for some pampering is a tempting option.

Reader’s Favorite Nail Salons in Greenville, SC

Here are the favorite salons in the area where you are most likely to find a Greenville mom trying to escape everyday madness for a few minutes of alone time:

Oscar Nails & Spa

2435 East North Street #1102, Greenville | 864.268.4103
Oscar Nails & Spa is well-loved by the Kidding Around Community. Their prices are affordable, the salon is well-maintained, and the staff is loved.

Oscars. Because you can make an appointment get excellent service and it doesn’t take too long !

Caron S

Mai at Oscar nails!!! Hands down the best! I’ve been to so many in the area and I do hair and they never last but specially Mai at Oscars knows how to make them last 3 sometimes even 4 weeks for me!!!

Heather T

Sunflower Nails

59 Woodruff Industrial Lane, Greenville, SC | 864.248.0685
If you are looking for nail design, this is the place. The Sunflower Nails Facebook page is full of examples of fabulous nail art. You’ll see everything from classic designs to bows and literal art on the nails.

I love the atmosphere and people at Sunflower Nails! Shoutout to my favorite nail tech Kathy 💕

Becca V

Came to same sunflower is always my go to! They are very consistent! And very nice staff!

Megan L

Five Forks Nails

2815 Woodruff Road, Simpsonville, SC | 864.509.1477
Readers say that the staff are friendly and they take their time when doing your nails.

5 Forks Nails. Vee is the BEST! Actually I don’t know that I’ve ever had anyone that wasn’t great! The attention to detail and they take the time to get to know their clients!

Snowe W M

Ooh! U’ve Got Nails

401 East Stone Ave Ste A, Greenville, SC | 864.252.4716
Ooh! U’ve Got Nails in Greenville is said to be managed by a talented technician, who will give you more of a spa-like treatment.

Ooh U’ve Got Nails Greenville, Mimi Vang is amazing. Her spa like treatment, professional mannerisms, she is truly an asset to her trade. She goes above and beyond to make sure you leave happy and feel pampered. I won’t go anywhere else and Blessed I found her.

Connie K

Omnia Nail Studio

1607 Laurens Road, Greenville, SC 29607 | 864.236.7792
Omnia Nail Studio is a great option based on a reader’s recommendation if you are looking for nail art.

Omnia nail studio. They are always on time and ready to go at your appointment time. They can do any inspiration picture you bring but better. Their attention to detail is top tier. Also their nails last foreverrrrr.

Seraphina G H

Bonus:

Nails On The River

401 River Street, Greenville, SC | 864.438.1465
Our readers say they love Nails on the River because they use non-toxic products and there isn’t the thick, chemical smell that many nail salons have. The salon is appointment only, and you can make an appointment online.

Nails on the River is THE place. Non toxic, no horrific smells, awesome women owned/staff. I hadn’t had a mani/pedi in 4 years bc of issues with toxins, until this place came along

Lorey M H

It’s a very nice and quiet space, I can make an appointment online, and fairly priced.

Augusta F

Mary’s Nails

1939 Woodruff Road, Greenville | 864.458.7268

My go-to is Mary’s Nails. The girls are great at designs. Anything I bring to my nail tech Avon, she can do, but everyone is great! Friendly service and reasonably priced!

Kara W N

Tips N Toes

1140 Woodruff Rd, Greenville | 864.288.3334

I personally like Tips & Toes off Woodruff Rd. They’re clean and professional. You can walk-in or book an appointment online. Also, they serve a complimentary beverage with nail service.

Tracey B

AO- The Space

325 Rocky Slope Road Suite 108, Greenville | 864.412.8078

AO – The Space for non toxic!

Lorey H

Do you have a favorite nail salon in Greenville? Let us know!

Are you looking to get a mani/pedi with your kid? These salons offer that!

Emberglow Outdoor Resort: Comfort and the Outdoors Mix for Amazing Family Fun

Inside: A local family visits Emberglow Outdoor Resort and shares all the fun things to do and tips for your visit.

Are you looking for a camping experience that allows you to enjoy the great outdoors while still maintaining comfort? With a variety of lodging options to choose from, including vintage campers, tiny homes, RV/campsites, and safari tents, Emberglow Outdoor Resort in Mill Spring, NC offers every type of family the perfect place to relax and enjoy the outdoors.

Quick Summary: Emberglow Outdoor Resort

We took a trip to Emberglow Outdoor Resort in Mill Spring, NC—and it was a total hit with our kids (and our pup)!

Here’s what we loved:
✔️ Pet-friendly Carolina Cottage with full kitchen + screened porch
✔️ Vintage campers, treehouses, safari tents & more
✔️ On-site fun: playground, pool, bike rentals, dog park, and even a jumping pillow!
✔️ Just an hour from Greenville, near Lake Lure and Chimney Rock

Ready to explore the outdoors with comfort and charm? ➡️ Book your stay

Our family (including our dog) had tons of fun staying at the Carolina Cottage Tiny Home at Emberglow and we can’t wait to share with you everything you need to know for your visit. Our kids are already begging to go back!

Emberglow Outdoor Resort is only about an hour from Greenville, SC, near Hendersonville, NC.

About Emberglow Outdoor Resort

Located just 15 minutes from Lake Lure in the hills of Western NC, Emberglow Outdoor Resort is conveniently situated between Greenville, Asheville, Charlotte, and Columbia. The resort’s 72 acres are nestled in a beautiful, private valley complete with spring-fed creeks. This resort truly offers something for every camping preference and every size group with a variety of comfortable lodging options including:

Primitive Tent Sites
RV Sites
Safari Tents
Pods
Vintage Campers
Tiny Houses
Yurts
One larger house

Not only does Emberglow offer a wide range of accommodations but they also offer extremely unique stays. Choose to stay in Big Ben, a vintage double-decker bus, or stay in a special tree house resort home that even includes a slide coming out of the house plus two lofts connected by a cargo net.

Stay in a double decker bus at Emberglow Resort. — Photo Credit: Emberglow Outdoor Resort

Treehouse with a slide that you can book at Emberglow Outdoor Resort — Photo Credit: Emberglow Outdoor Resort

We stayed in the Carolina Cottage Tiny Home during our stay which despite being a tiny house had a full kitchen and bath, a loft bedroom for the kids, and even a screened-in porch. Our unit even came with towels, linens, a gas grill, and a fire pit. It was also right next to the creek and the playground.

What is there to do at Emberglow Outdoor Resort?

Emberglow is conveniently located in Western NC where it’s just a short drive to a number of fun attractions at Lake Lure, Chimney Rock, and the Hendersonville/Flat Rock region. We were delighted to find plenty of fun activities right on the campground and ended up spending all of our time within the resort.

Emberglow Events– Emberglow Outdoor Resort offers tons of special events throughout the year. They have a special event for Mother & Father’s Day, a Back To School Bash, and a whole calendar full of more events to enjoy.

Pool at Emberglow Outdoor Resort — Photo Credit: Emberglow Outdoor Resort

Pool: Emberglow has a large outdoor ADA-compliant resort pool that opens in the summer season.

Playground: Even my 12-year-old had fun playing on the playground at Emberglow. I especially thought the camper play structure was an imaginative twist. I also loved how the playground was within an easy visibility distance of multiple campsites. I could actually see the playground from my screened-in porch making it easy to let older kids play while still keeping an eye on them.

Jumping Pillow: If your kids need to get their energy out, you can just walk them over to the jumping pillow which is open for jumping at no additional cost.

Other fun amenities include:

GaGa Ball Pit
Sand Volleyball Court
Group Fire Pit
Free WiFi
Hiking/Biking Trails
Pedal Kart and Bicycle rentals
Dog Park
Premium Bath House
Free WiFi
Food Truck

This area of Western North Carolina is also full of fun things to do. Our list of things to do in Western North Carolina and our list of things to do in Hendersonville, NC have tons of ideas that could keep you busy for weeks.

FAQ

Are Pets Allowed at Emberglow Outdoor Resort?

Yes, while not every accommodation is pet-friendly, many are, including the Carolina Cottage Tiny Home. We brought our dog Izzy Bee with us on her first vacation away from home.

The Carolina Cottage Tiny Home had plenty of space for the four of us and our puppy including her crate. Izzy spent most of her time while we were in the cabin on the screened-in porch where she could watch other families walk by.

The dog park was only a couple-minute walk from our house. It was spacious and had plenty of room to run around. When we visited, there were only a couple of other dogs at the resort so we had plenty of space to ourselves, but I noticed that there was a smaller area fenced off in the dog park so that there would be space to spread out if needed.

Is Parking Available at Emberglow Outdoor Resort?

There is plenty of parking space at each unit as well as near all of the major areas of the resort.

Should you bring your own food to Emberglow Outdoor Resort?

Yes, while a food truck is open during some seasons, Emberglow is around 15 minutes from grocery stores and restaurants. We personally found it easier to bring easy-to-prepare meals and snacks. Our particular unit did have a small kitchen with basic kitchen items and even had a coffee pot with coffee pods.

Family Review of Emberglow Outdoor Resort

Our kids had such a great time at Emberglow that they are already asking us when they can go back. We thought that the campground offered a great mix of quiet relaxation and fun. I also thought the easy one-hour driving distance from Greenville made the trip even more relaxing. Whether you are looking for a quiet week or just a weekend getaway, Emberglow Outdoor Resort is a great option for the perfect, relaxing family vacation.

Book your stay on the Emberglow Outdoor Resort website.

95 Pinewood Trail, Mill Spring, NC

Are you looking for more fun things to do in Western North Carolina? Check out our Kidding Around Guide to WNC!

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

Things to Do in Hendersonville, North Carolina

Are you looking for more fun things to do in nearby Hendersonville, NC? Check out our Kidding Around Guide to Hendersonville, NC!

Kidding Around's Travel Guide to North Carolina

More great travel destinations in North Carolina

Drop-in Childcare Kids Love at Giggles: Greenville, SC

Have you used drop-in childcare before? Giggles Greenville, SC convenient location on Pelham Road near Interstate 85 is an excellent option for your childcare needs!

The 4,700 square feet unit features an outdoor play area, their signature indoor tree house, and rooms for different age groups to enjoy activities. Parents are able to drop their children off for childcare, date night, and more, so there is always a safe childcare team when you need them.

Giggles Drop-In Childcare is a KABOOM Award Winner!

Learn more about our KABOOM Award Winners and discover Greenville’s BEST!

Giggles Drop-In Childcare Center previously sponsored this article.

If you’ve stopped in Earth Fare recently – or anywhere in that big shopping plaza on Pelham Road – you may have noticed a giant sign on the end of the building reading “Giggles.” Let’s check it out!

A little about Giggles: Greenville, SC

Giggles in Greenville was opened by Brandon Kimball and his wife, Caroline, after they experienced the convenience and professional childcare during a vacation in Wilmington, NC. They wondered why Greenville did not offer the same services.

“One of the things we liked most about the Giggles model when we first used the service in North Carolina was the flexibility in the pricing options,” said Caroline Kimball. “We loved the fact that we could buy hours in bulk and get our cost of childcare down to as low as $5 per hour. The low prices coupled with the amazing experience for our kids was the main reason we decided to franchise the model and open up the two Greenville locations.”

The Giggles Greenville SC location has been open for a couple of years now and has significantly helped many families. They’ve been open during teacher holidays, holidays where parents needed to work, and late nights when a parent needed childcare.

“This place is fantastic. I’m new to the area and needed part-time help with my twin toddlers at random times for school events and doctor’s appointments. The staff is phenomenal and my kids love going,” raved one mom in a review on the Giggles Facebook page.

The Pelham Road location is perfect for families coming out of the Five Forks or Eastside area, as it’s about 15 minutes from both places. It is located right off of the Pelham Road exit on 85 and in the same plaza as Earth Fare, several other restaurants, Massage Envy, nail salons, and Pet Supply Plus. Sidewall Pizza is a two-minute drive away. Built-in date night right there.

While you can register your child at the childcare center, it is much easier to do it online. Also, be sure to ask the family pediatrician for a copy of immunization records, as they are needed for registration.

Summer Camps at Giggles

Giggles is already registering for their field-trip-based summer camps.

For summer camps, Giggles offers themed weeks, eight hours a day, where kids go to different places daily. The camps are offered for rising kindergarteners through 5th grade and cost $275/week for one child, $500/week for two children. Prices are also available for more than two kids a week. If parents sign their kids up before May 23rd, 2025, they receive a $25 per week discount.

For 2025, Giggles will also be offering full-day preschool summer camp for children under 5 years old!

Check out their cool schedule of summer camp field trips. Kids will get to go to Kangaroo Jax and climb on the inflatables, visit unicorns at Hidden Pasture Farms, play putt putt golf, explore the Roper Mountain Science Center, visit with real firefighters at a fire department, get wet at Shipwreck Cove’s waterpark, and so much more! This is only a small sampling of the adventures for summer camps at Giggles.

Find a lot more summer camp options in Greenville on the Kidding Around Summer Camp Guide.

Host at Birthday Party at Giggles

Did you know that Giggles also offers families the opportunity to rent their facility as a birthday party rental space? You can enjoy the facility for a Sunday birthday party! Though they do not offer any assistance with setting up or hosting the party, you will be able to have private use of the entire facility!

The cost is $200 for up to 15 kids, with a $25 fee for additional increments of 5 children.

Pricing and Hours for Giggles Greenville, SC location

Giggles will be open Monday through Thursday, 7:30 am to 9 pm; Friday from 7:30 am to 10 pm, and Saturday from 10 am to 10 pm. Giggles is only open on Sundays for birthday parties.

The centers will accept kids from 12 months old through 12 years old.

Rates are below and listed on the Giggles website. Giggles offers several packages for one, two, or three children, as well as memberships and date night packages.

Hourly Drop-In Care

$14/hour for 1 child
$23/hour for 2 children
$29/hour for 3 children
$33/hour for 4 children

They also offer pricing in 10-hour blocks up to 150-hour blocks. These are affordable and competitive pricing for the professional childcare services offered. Be sure to follow Giggles of Pelham on Facebook as they will be offering specials, coupons, and promo packages throughout the year.

Giggles Drop-In Childcare
3620 Pelham Road
Greenville, SC
864.252.4252
greenville@gigglesdaycareinc.com

Have you tried out Giggles: Greenville, SC yet?

Exceptional Needs Resources Near Greenville, SC

Resources You’ll Find Below:

Website links, addresses, phone numbers, and service descriptions for special needs agencies and resources for families near Greenville, SC.
Information about therapy and recreational activities for children with exceptional needs who live near Greenville, SC.
A link to our Guide for Special Needs Families in Greenville, SC.

Do you know someone with exceptional needs? Greenville mom, Michelle Grabiec, created this list of resources for Greenville, SC families with exceptional needs. Families with members who have ADHD, ADD, autism spectrum disorders, sensory processing challenges, and other special needs may find this list helpful.

Exceptional Needs Resources in Greenville, SC and the SC Upstate

(more…)

Resources You’ll Find Below:

Website links, addresses, phone numbers, and service descriptions for special needs agencies and resources for families near Greenville, SC.
Information about therapy and recreational activities for children with exceptional needs who live near Greenville, SC.
A link to our Guide for Special Needs Families in Greenville, SC.

(more…)

Archive for the ‘Guides’ Category

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Key Things to Know Before You Go

Quick Summary: Play Indoors at Smart Toys & Books in Knoxville, TN

Learn, Shop & Play At Smart Toys and Books

The Indoor Playground Experience

Smart Toys and Books Location

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Our Favorite Spartanburg Parks

Get them all! Parks in Spartanburg County

Anchor Park

Holston Creek Park

Linville Hills Park

Rail Yard Community Park

Downtown Library Park

River Place Park

Stoneledge Park

St. Matthews Park

Lyman Park

Barnet Park

Sealy Park

Boiling Springs Community Park

Happy Hollow Park

Gordon Henry Park

Croft State Park

Tyger River Park

Play on Main at Denny's

295 Park

Pacolet Park

North Spartanburg Park

South Converse Street Park

Croftstone Park

Lake Cooley Park

Leroy Mathis Park

Chesnee Park

Cleveland Park in Spartanburg

Inman Mills Park

Hillcrest Park

Irwin Park

Arkwright Park

Priscilla Rumley Park

Gib Gosnell Park

Summer Hill Park

Brookwood Park

Chapel Street Park

Duncan Park

Hourly Drop-In Care