Archive for the ‘Guides’ Category

Best Places for Indoor Birthday Parties in Greenville, SC

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Looking for options for indoor birthday parties in Greenville, SC? Whether you are trying to avoid the chilly winter months, or the scorching hot summer heat, having an indoor birthday party is always a great idea! Of course, it’s a big parent win not having to do any cleanup after the little tornadoes make their way through the party, cake, and decorations. Kidding Around Greenville has compiled a list of some of the best indoor venues for birthday parties! 

indoor birthday parties in Greenville, SC

These suggestions are taken from both our reader recommendations as well as other recommendations that our staff has added. We would love to add to this list, so feel free to add your own favorite places in the comments.

Birthday Parties in Greenville SC

For even more birthday party ideas, consult our Ultimate Birthday Guide to Upstate, SC.

We also have a list of 10 Inexpensive Birthday Parties, Birthday Parties for Babies, and Outdoor Birthday Parties.


This list includes recommendations from our readers as well as unpaid mentions of some of our sponsors.

Indoor Birthday Party Places in Greenville

The Pavilion

The Pavilion in Taylors gets big props from our readers. The Bounce House or Ice Skating parties are affordable and fun and include pizza, soft drinks, cake, and even ice cream. Packages also include a 2-hour rental of a private party room. The price is currently $16/child with a minimum of 10 guests and you can ice skate or jump for $20/person. 

400 Scottswood Road
Taylors, SC
864.467.3486

Big Air

With locations in Greenville and Spartanburg, Big Air can offer awesome indoor birthday parties and often has some kind of deals going on. Birthday party packages include 10 jumpers, 60 minutes, 90 minutes, or 120 minutes of jumping depending on the package purchased, pizza, and drinks with 40 minutes of reserved seating time. Prices start at $300, with additional jump passes available for an additional fee.

660 Spartan Boulevard #200
Spartanburg, SC
864.580.6462

36 Park Woodruff Drive
Greenville, SC
864.626.5252

Sky Zone

Sky Zone offers 3 trampoline birthday party packages for up to 10 jumpers:

  • Best Birthday Party ($325+tax; 90 minutes of jump time + 60 minutes of party room time + pizza and drinks)
  • Glow Party ($350 + tax; 3 hours of jump time + 3 hours of party room time + pizza)
  • Little Leapers Party (kids 5 and under, only Saturdays 9 am – 11 am) ($250 +tax; 2 hours of jump time)

2465 Laurens Road
Greenville, SC
864.558.2400

MOTIVE School of Movement

Want to party on a real ninja course designed by actual ninjas from the TV show? MOTIVE School of Movement offers parties for ages 5 and up and includes classic obstacles like the jumping spider, warped wall, rings, balance obstacles, and more! They offer parties on Saturday evenings. Prices start at $275.

10 Webb Road
Greenville, SC
864.775.4844

The Children’s Museum of the Upstate

The Children’s Museum of the Upstate is one of the largest birthday party venues in Greenville (the Spartanburg location also offers birthday parties). Birthday parties include private rooms, cupcakes, a dedicated party host, all-day admission to the museum included for you and your guests, and more! They also offer add-ons such as party games and LEGO land. Prices start at $200 for TCMU Spartanburg and $250 for TCMU Greenville.
Here’s our TMCU Review.

300 College Street
Greenville, SC
864.233.7755

Once Upon a Dream Parties

This beautiful indoor venue specializes in princess parties. Parties at the event venue include 2 hours of rental space, a character of your choice, songs, a dance with the birthday child, and more. You can even choose to purchase a full tea party with a princess character hosting the party from beginning to end.

1099 E. Butler Road
Greenville, SC
864.421.2472

Golden Lanes & Skate

Go old school and have your child’s birthday party at roller-skating rinks Golden Lanes & Skate. They offer Skating Party Packages starting at $200 but also have Private Party Packages starting at $280. Golden Lanes also has a bowling alley and Bowling Package for up to 12 children starting at $200. Packages include pizza and soda in addition to skating.

108 Balcome Blvd
Simpsonville, SC
864.967.8551

Dance Without Limits

This all-inclusive dance studio in Greer will host a dance party for your child at their beautiful indoor facility. Parties are for an hour and a half and can accommodate 20 children. Themes range from ballerina to hip hop to princess ballerina, or you can create your own theme. Parties cost $200 for students of the studio and $250 for those not members of the studio.

115 Pelham Road, Unit 24
Greenville, SC
864.412.7788

The Little Gym of Greenville

While The Little Gym was named Best Gym Party by Parents Magazine, it was also highly recommended by KAG readers. The Little Gym birthday packages include 1.5 hours of gym time, full rental of facility, bottled water for the kids, setup and cleanup, paper goods. They offer several themes to choose from. Prices start at $350 for up to 15 guests. 

1607 Laurens Road Suite 102
Greenville, SC
864.772.3887

Kangaroo Jax

This indoor venue features bounce houses, a mini-Ferris wheel, and a carousel. Kids will love this place for an indoor birthday party; Kangaroo Jax offers several birthday party packages, starting at $269 for weekday parties, and $290 for parties Friday through Sunday.

2437 Laurens Road
Greenville, SC
864.902.5297

Pump It Up Greenville

This local bounce house venue gives parents peace of mind with a private bounce house arena for parties and pizza included. Pricing starts at $249 for small weekday parties and $329 for weekend parties for 10 children. They offer additional options for larger groups and offer a Classic, Deluxe, and Ultimate party package

75 Brookfield Oaks Drive, Suite 100
Greenville, SC
864.987.9022

Kroc Center

There are lots of options to have fun at the Kroc Center in Greenville – from a pool party to a climbing wall to basketball or volleyball and tennis. A bounce house birthday party is even an option. Parties include 60 minutes of play in the bounce houses or pools, along with 90 minutes of time in the party room for 12 to 25 children. They also provide catering for birthday parties for an additional cost. You may bring in your dessert or birthday cake. 

424 Westfield Street
Greenville, SC
864.527.5948

Read: Are You Familiar with the Kroc Center

TR Makers Co.

At TR Makers Co, the birthday boy/girl receives a special t-shirt made during the party by all the guests. Parties include art instruction and materials for 9 guests ages 4 and up and cost $250 for two hours. Options are available to add food but parents can also bring in their own food or order delivery. There are plenty of great places in the area of downtown Travelers Rest, like Sidewall Pizza.

3 South Main Street
Travelers Rest, SC
864.610.0996

TReehouse Café & Studio

A birthday party at the TReehouse Café & Studio in Travelers Rest guarantees to be a great experience. Kids can paint, color, and enjoy great food while getting lost in their own worlds and creating art. Review here.

27 South Main Street
Travelers Rest, SC
864.610.2266

Climb @ Blue Ridge

Our readers love Climb @ Blue Ridge for indoor birthday parties – it’s a unique experience for any level of climber and a fairly affordable option for birthday parties with an 8-person minimum at $12/climber and be for 1.5 hours. There is a $5 fee for training and gear, and a $7/belayer fee (and a parent can be the belayer). One belayer is needed per 5 climbers. You can bring your own food.

301 Bulls Road
Taylors, SC
864.895.1416

Make and Believe Artists

Your birthday party can include an art project at Make and Believe Artists in Simpsonville. Parties are 2 hours and cost $299 for up to 10 participants. Extra participants are $10 each. You can pick three art activities to do while at the party to take home. Food, drink, and cake are allowed to be brought in. 

110 Academy Street
Simpsonville, SC
864.245.3977

Kids Play & Cafe

Your birthday child and their friends can celebrate indoors at Kids Play & Cafe in Easley at their fun jungle gyms, climbing apparatuses, and imaginative play areas. Birthday parties start at $339 for 10 kids.
Check out our review of Kids Play & Cafe

210 Fern Street
Easley, SC

864.307.8080 

Play Cafe at Judson Mill

The Play Cafe at Judson Mill is an indoor playground that offers birthday party packages in Greenville, SC. There are 3 different birthday party packages that all include a private party room and start at $249 for up to 15 guests. Be sure to read our full review of the Play Cafe at Judson Mill.

701 Easley Bridge Road, Unit 6040
Greenville, SC
864.203.0330

Where was your child’s favorite birthday party held?

RELATED: 

Our Birthday Party Guide to Greenville
Outdoor Birthday Parties
Birthday Parties for Babies

Guide to Downtown Parking: Greenville, SC

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Our Kidding Around® comprehensive guide to downtown parking in Greenville, SC for travelers and locals!

Not a fan of parking in Downtown Greenville? You might find yourself thinking, “I love to go downtown, but parking is a nightmare! The traffic, the congestion, the price…it’s not worth it!” But Greenville’s downtown is pretty fantastic and there is plenty of parking in Greenville if you know where to look. To help you out here’s Kidding Around Greenville’s Guide to Parking in Downtown Greenville.

Guide to parking in Greenville SC

Greenville has no shortage of restaurants and attractions, but finding a place to park can be daunting for many, especially those with small children. Utilizing one of the city’s many convenient parking facilities can help solve these problems, and each is only a few blocks from a variety of affordable kid-friendly activities and restaurants! 

The City of Greenville offers free parking in all garages for the first hour no matter where or when you park. The second hour costs $2 and each hour after that is $1. They have a daily maximum rate set at $7.

There are two exceptions: the W. Washington St. deck and the West End lot are always $1 each hour (max $7). There are also several free nights and weekend options: the W. Washington St. deck and the Richardson St. garage are free on the weekends (6 pm Fri to 6 am Mon). The Cancer Survivors parking lot is always free. During special events, there may be a set parking fee between $5 and $10 for garages that will be posted ahead of time.

Whether it’s a quick trip or a whole day, enjoying beautiful downtown Greenville can be stress-free if you know where to park!

Pay to Park: Parking Garages in Greenville, SC

The garages below are Free the first hour, $2 the second, and $1 each hour after ($7 max)

Church Street Garage

Location: 320 N Church Street, 29601; next to the Wellness Arena; busy road
Attractions (Distance): Bon Secour Wellness Arena (200 ft), Hyatt Regency (fountains; .2 m), NOMA square (fountain; .3 m)
Restaurants (Distance): Kilwins’s Fudge (.3 m), Antonino Bertolo’s Pizza (.3 m)

Commons Garage

Location: 60 Beattie Place, 29601; adjacent to the Hyatt
Attractions (Distance): Hyatt Regency (fountains; 0), NOMA square (fountain; <.1 m), O.P Taylor’s Toys (.1 m), Bon Secour Wellness Arena (.2 m), Mast General Store (.2 m), Greenville Gemstone Mining (.2 m), ONE City Plaza (fountains; .3 m)
Restaurants (Distance): Kilwin’s Fudge (<.1 m), Marble Slab Creamery (.2 m), Creme Shack (.2 m), Antonino Bertolo’s Pizza (.2 m).

North Laurens Street Parking Deck

Location: 210 N Laurens Street, 29601; behind Cafe and Then Some
Attractions (Distance): Hyatt Regency (fountains; 400 ft), NOMA square (fountain; 400 ft), O.P Taylor’s Toys (.1 m), Mast General Store (.1 m), Greenville Gemstone Mine (.1 m), ONE City Plaza (fountains; .2 m)
Restaurants (Distance): Kilwin’s Fudge (300 ft), Creme Shack (.1 m), Antonino Bertolo’s Pizza (.1 m), Marble Slab Creamery (.2 m), Poppington’s Gourmet Popcorn (.3 m).

ONE City Plaza Garage

Location: 34 Richardson Street, 29601; across from First Presbyterian
Attractions (Distance): ONE City Plaza (fountains; 400 ft), Mast General Store (400 ft), O.P Taylor’s Toys (.2 m), Greenville Gemstone Mine (.2 m), Hyatt Regency (fountains; .3 m), NOMA square (fountain; .3 m), M. Judson Booksellers (.3 m), Waterfall Fountain (Ice on Main in Nov!; .3 m)
Restaurants (Distance): Marble Slab Creamery (.1 m), Poppington’s Gourmet Popcorn (.2), Creme Shack (.2 m), Antonino Bertolo’s Pizza (.2), Kilwin’s Fudge (.3 m)

Poinsett Garage

Location: 25 W McBee Avenue, 29601; adjacent to Grace Church and across from Greenlink
Attractions (Distance): M. Judson Booksellers (.1 m), Waterfall Fountain (Ice on Main in Nov!; .1 m), Huguenot Mill at the Reedy River (.1 m), The Peace Center (fountains; .1 m), Swamp Rabbit trail (.1 m), ONE City Plaza (fountains; .2 m), Mast General Store (.2 m), Linky Stone Park (.2 m),  Greenville Gemstone Mine (.3 m), O.P Taylor’s Toys (.3 m)
Restaurants (Distance): Poppington’s Gourmet Popcorn (500 ft), Papi’s Tacos (.3 m), Grill Marks (.1 m), Marble Slab Creamery (.2 m), Creme Shack (.3 m), O CHA Tea Bar (fun drinks; .3 m).

Broad Street Garage

Location: 135 E Broad Street, 29601; adjacent to Publix.
Attractions: Two blocks from Main Street near the Peace Center (.2 m), Falls Park (.2m)
Restaurants: Larkin’s (.1m), Soby’s (.1m), Group Therapy (.1m), Jeni’s Splendid Ice Cream (.1m)

River Street Garage

Location: 414 River Street, 29601; at River Street and W. Broad Street
Attractions (Distance): M. Judson Booksellers (.1 m), Waterfall Fountain (Ice on Main in Nov!; 500 ft), Huguenot Mill at the Reedy River (.1 m), The Peace Center (fountains; .1 m), Swamp Rabbit trail (.1 m), Linky Stone Park (.2 m), Liberty Bridge/Falls Park (.4 m)
Restaurants (Distance): Papi’s Tacos (.2 m), Poppington’s Gourmet Popcorn (.2 m), O CHA Tea Bar (fun drinks; .2 m), Grill Marks (.2 m)

River Place Garage

Location: 300 River Street, 29601; at River Street and W. Broad Street (beside the Reedy River)
Attractions (Distance): Swamp Rabbit Trail (0 m.), Linky Stone Park (400 ft.), Huguenot Mill at the Reedy River (.1 m), The Peace Center (fountains; .1 m), M. Judson Booksellers (.2 m), Waterfall Fountain (Ice on Main in Nov!; .2 m), Liberty Bridge/Falls Park (.3 m), Medusa Tree (.4 m)
Restaurants (Distance): O CHA Tea Bar (fun drinks; < .1 m), Papi’s Tacos (< .1 m), Poppington’s Gourmet Popcorn (.3 m), Mellow Mushroom (.3 m), Grill Marks (.3 m), Between the Trees (.3 m), Carmella’s Dessert Bar (.3m).

The garage below is $1 each hour (max $7)

West End Park and Ride Lot (Trolley Stop)

Location: 106 Augusta Street, 29601; at Augusta and S. Main
Attractions/Distance: Fluor Field (500 ft.), Lower Reedy River Falls (.2 m), Swamp Rabbit trail (.3 m), Medusa Tree (.3 m), Liberty Bridge/Falls Park (.3 m), River Lodge Picnic Shelter (.4 m), Swamp Rabbit trail spur (wooden; .5 m), Cancer Survivors Park (.5 m)
Restaurants (Distance): Mellow Mushroom (500 ft.), Crazy Mason Milkshake Bar (.1m)
Trolley Route Map**

Nights and Weekends: Free Parking in Downtown Greenville, SC

Richardson Street Garage

Cost: Free weekends from 6 pm Friday to 6 am Monday; weekday rate is free the first hour, $2 the second, and $1 each hour from 6 am-6 pm M-F ($7 max).
Location: 66 Richardson Street, 29601; corner of Richardson and W. North/Buncombe Street
Attractions (Distance): ONE City Plaza (fountains; 400 ft), Mast General Store (400 ft), O.P Taylor’s Toys (.1 m), Greenville Gemstone Mine (.1 m), Hyatt Regency (fountains;.2 m), NOMA square (fountain; .2 m), M. Judson Booksellers (.3 m), Waterfall Fountain (Ice on Main in Nov!; .3 m)
Restaurants (Distance): Marble Slab Creamery (.1 m), Creme Shack (.1 m), Kilwin’s Fudge (.2 m), Poppington’s Gourmet Popcorn (.2), Antonino Bertolo’s Pizza (.2 m), Menkoi Noodle House (.2 m).

West Washington Street Deck

Cost: Free nights and weekends (after 6 pm M-F and Sat-Sun); weekday rate is $1 per hour from 6 am-6 pm M-F ($7 max) 
Location: 101 W Washington Street, 29601; adjacent to Greenlink and Barley’s
Attractions (Distance): ONE City Plaza (fountains; 500 ft), Mast General Store (500 ft), O.P Taylor’s Toys (.2 m), Greenville Gemstone Mine (.2 m), M. Judson Booksellers (.2 m), Hyatt Regency (fountains; .3 m), NOMA square (fountain; .3 m),  Waterfall Fountain (Ice on Main in November!; .3 m)
Restaurants (Distance): Marble Slab Creamery (.1 m) Poppington’s Gourmet Popcorn (.1), Papi’s Tacos (.3 m), Creme Shack (.2 m), Kilwin’s Fudge (.3 m), Grill Marks (.3 m), Antonino Bertolo’s Pizza (.3 m)

Always Free Parking in Greenville, SC

Cancer Survivors Parking

Location: 52 Cleveland Street, 29601; at Cleveland Street and Ridgeland Drive
Attractions (Distance): Cancer Survivors Park (0 m.), Swamp Rabbit trail & trail spur (300 ft.; wooden), Airplane Park (.2 m), and River Lodge Picnic Shelter (.2 m)

South Main Street Parking

Location: 911 South Main Street, 29601; adjacent to Fluor Field; Free with 47 parking spots, but with 2-hour maximum.
Attractions (Distance): Fluor Field (0 m. ), Gather Greenville (0 m. ), The Crazy Mason Milkshake Bar (0.4 m.), South Carolina Children’s Theatre (0.2 m.)

Garages with EV Charging Stations

If you own or are renting an electric vehicle, you will be delighted to know that there are several places where you can charge up while you are visiting downtown.

  • RiverPlace Garage- 300 River Street, 2 stations
  • Poinsett Garage- 25 W McBee Avenue, 4 stations
  • South Spring Street Garage- 316 S Spring Street, 3 stations
  • Church Street Garage- 320 N Church Street, 4 stations
  • North Laurens Street Deck- 210 N Laurents Street, 2 stations
  • Commons Garage- 60 Beattie Place, 3 stations
  • Richardson Street Garage- 66 Richardson Street, 5 stations
  • Broad Street Garage- 135 E. Broad Street, 3 stations
  • ONE City Plaza Garage- 34 Richardson Street, 3 stations
  • River Street Garage- 414 River Street, 3 stations

Night Owl Monthly Parking Pass

Does your family spend a bunch of time downtown on nights and weekends? The city offers visitors a new option that could save your family money depending on how often you are paying to park.
Night Owl monthly parking is available for a discounted rate of $36 per month, which is half of the standard monthly parking rate.

The pass provides access to the customer’s preferred garage from:

  • 4 pm to 6 am Monday through Thursday
  • 4 pm on Friday to 6 am on Monday

You can submit your application for Night Owl monthly parking online through the City of Greenville.

Holiday Free Parking

The City of Greenville is gifting free parking for 2024 on Small Business Saturday, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day.

  • North Laurens Street Garage
  • West Washington Garage
  • Broad Street Garage
  • Richardson Street Garage
  • West End Parking Lot
  • South Main Parking Lot
  • Over 900 free on-street spaces!

Things to do in Downtown Greenville, SC.

Check out our guide for more things to do in Downtown Greenville, SC!

The Best Locally Owned Toy Stores Near Greenville, SC

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Where are the locally-owned toy stores in Greenville, SC? Is there a toy store near me? What are the best Greenville, SC toy stores? If you’re looking to support local small businesses and find great gifts and fun toys while you’re at it, this is the list you’re looking for. These unique shops are some of the best toy shops around.

where to buy toys in greenville, sc

Where to Buy Toys Around Greenville, SC

Sure, I love online shopping like the best of them, but there’s something that can’t beat walking into a toy store, shopping for gifts, or looking around. And, if I can support a local small business, I’m going to always choose that first. Luckily, we live in an area where there are plenty of locally-owned toy stores.

One of my favorite things to do is pop into one of these stores with my daughter and let her look around for a few minutes. It reminds me of when I used to do the same thing with my parents when I was younger. So if you’re like me and you want to support local businesses, here’s a roundup of some of the best locally-owned toy stores near Greenville, SC.

O.P. Taylor’s

Dubbed “The Coolest Toy Store on the Planet”, O.P. Taylor’s is a landmark in downtown Greenville. This small and mighty toy store is packed to the brim with toys for kids of all ages.

117 North Main Street, Greenville
864.467.1984

O.P Taylors in Greenville, South Carolina

The Elephant’s Trunk

The Elephant’s Trunk is a specialty toy store that sells educational and unique toys for kids of all ages. Reviewers rave about the friendliness and helpfulness of the staff. Need assistance finding the perfect toy for a specific age? They’ll help you without blinking an eye.

2222 August Street #8, Greenville
864.232.4731

Hollipops Fine Toys & Gifts

Hollipops is another local favorite. Filled with unique, high-quality toys, you’ll find something for every child at every age. And if you need recommendations on what toy to buy, the staff will quickly help you find the perfect gift. 

2531 Woodruff Road #106, Simpsonville
864.509.1883

Borderlands Comics and Games

If you’re looking for a gift for a comic book or game, then look no further than Borderlands Comics and Games. Packed full with comic books, graphic novels, collectibles, and games, it’s a dream come true for the comic book or game lover in your life.

410 South Pleasantburg Drive, Greenville
864.235.3488

Toy Federation

Toy Federation comes highly rated. They buy, sell, and trade new and vintage toys from your childhood to today. One reviewer even said it’s like a “classic toy museum where you can buy the toys.” If you’re wanting to introduce your kids to some toys from your childhood (or just reminisce yourself), make a visit to this locally-owned toy store tucked away in Greer.

104 Middleton Way, Greer
864.747.7657

Boardwalk

Once you step inside Boardwalk, you’ll find that the entire space is filled with all types of tabletop-style games. From board games to card games to darts and more, your competitive heart will be pleased. They even offer year-round gaming events. 

1175 Woods Crossing Road #6, Greenville
864.297.6924

Shopping in Spartanburg

Imagination Station

Located in downtown Spartanburg, Imagination Station is a locally-owned toys store offering toys for kids of all ages. They even have trendy toys in stock (like Tonies)… so while you’re buying something popular, you’re also supporting small businesses. Win-win for everyone.

180 E Main Street, Spartanburg, SC
864.573.8800

Squiggles Toys and More

Check out our visit to Squiggles Toys and More for their super fun slime bar activity!
Squiggles Toys and More isn’t just about slime—they also offer a wide selection of sensory-friendly toys for kids of all ages. Whether you’re looking for fidget toys, calming tools, or unique playthings, this store is a treasure trove for children who benefit from sensory experiences.

149 W Main Street, Duncan, SC
Squiggles Toys and More Facebook page

Children’s Museum of the Upstate

Both TCMU- Greenville and TCMU- Spartanburg offer toy stores located within the museum. The stores have a varied selection of arts and crafts, age-appropriate toys, STEAM-related toys, books, and TCMU merchandise. You can also shop online and purchase curated gift bundles from the museum for that special child in your life!

300 College Street, Greenville, SC
130 Magnolia Street, Spartanburg, SC
864.233.7755

Are we missing any of your favorite locally-owned toy stores? Tell us below!

You Have to Pass Puzzles to Get Past the Spirits in this Underground Haunted House

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It’s the Halloween attraction you never knew you needed. A brand new Haunted House meets escape room at The Sunken Manor! We had the chance to go and were blown away. Thank you to the Sunken Manor for inviting us to their terrifying attraction! 

The Sunken Manor is a brand new Haunted House, started by a local family who have created a complex Halloween attraction. Complete with a sinister backstory linked to the very house that the scares happen in! If you love Halloween, jumpscares, or have teens who are ready to tackle bigger scares, this place is for you! Plus, they have scare-themed events throughout the year!

About The Sunken Manor 

The Sunken Manor was started in 2024 by a local family, and this is its very first Halloween season! The family has owned the house since December and has been making this haunted house a reality since then. 

Located in Travelers Rest, this manor is uniquely built directly into the side of a hill. (Hence the “Sunken” name). Parking, entrance, and check-in are all on the property. And as you check in you actually are standing on the roof of the manor! Super trippy, super spooky, and a perfect way to begin the whole experience. 

The Sunken Manor Scare Actors

The Backstory 

The creators of The Sunken Manor have created a complex backstory for the haunted attraction and for the house itself, and some elements are inspired by true events! They have a QR code at the entrance that will take you to a video on their website that tells the chilling tale of the Sunken Manor, and what may hide beneath its depths. 

We won’t give anything away, but the backstory adds so much depth to the whole experience, and there may even be some easter eggs in the video to look out for once you enter the attraction 😉  

It’s also a great activity to kill time while waiting in line! That is, if you’re not being terrorized by the scare actors who join you as you wait. 

The Details About the Haunted House 

Sunken Manor begins before you even enter the attraction. As you buy your tickets scare actors are wandering the parking lot. I personally got followed by a spooky bat. As you wait in line there is a scary clown, a spooky scarecrow, and one of those scarers who slide on knee pads to scare you. And this is all before you even enter the house. 

Once you enter the house you are sat down in a creepy dining room that transports you back into a time gone by. The host explains some of the backstory and the escape room aspect of the whole experience. Then before you know it, you are ushered out, and into the terrifying depths of the Sunken Manor. 

In the attraction, you have to navigate through a series of rooms, each with its own unique theme and interactive scare actors. There are over a dozen, but here are some of the standouts: 

  • An old-timey living room where you have to search for the clue to escape.
  • A dark maze where you have only a flashlight to try and catch a hidden scare actor (we had to SPRINT to catch him)
  • A dining room full of cannibals, and YOU have to free their next victim 
  • A clown lair with puzzles and games you must complete to escape 
  • A circus tent where you get chased by a chainsaw-wielding clown 
  • A little girl’s bedroom where you have to read her a bedtime story that slowly comes to LIFE. 

And more! But we don’t want to give too many spoilers. But that is what to expect when you enter the depths of The Sunken Manor! From the time that we entered the Manor, to the time we sprinted out, took about 25-30 minutes! 

The Sunken Manor in Greenville SC

Best Ages

This is definitely an attraction geared towards teenagers and adults because of the in-your-face scare actors. As an adult, I was scared. There are loud noises, fog machines, strobe lights, scare actors yelling at you, and even a section where you have to chase a scare actor through a dark room. 

But, you may have an especially brave 8-year-old who is ready to tackle all of these things. So it is up to your judgment and knowledge of your own child. But I will give you all the heads-ups and warnings you need to make an informed decision! 

So what is a good age? It is best suited for teenagers and adults, but you know your kids better than I do! It totally depends on your kid. 

Tips for enjoying The Sunken Manor

Here are a few things we’d suggest before going to the Sunken Manor!

  • Wear closed-toe, sturdy shoes. 
  • The line to enter The Sunken Manor is outside, so wear layers! 
  • Arrive early to avoid long lines.
  • There are lots of strobe lights and flashing lights, so be prepared for that. 
  • Prepare for enclosed spaces. If you are claustrophobic or uncomfortable with that, then this may not be the attraction for you!
  • The actors will get VERY close to you. You will also be trapped in rooms with them.
  • This is a high scare attraction and is inside a house versus an outdoor trail with many exits. We would only advise taking older children who have completed other scary attractions successfully. 
  • Ticket prices range from $25 – $35 (if you want the express lane ticket).

Upcoming Events at the Sunken Manor

The Sunken Manor will open to host other events during the year. They plan to host a scary Valentine’s Day event and a family-friendly (non-scary) Easter event and Holiday event in 2025. We will add additional information as it’s available.

Our Overall Review 

We thought Sunken Manor was one of the most unique and scary attractions we have experienced in the Upstate. The underground set up of the original house combined with the puzzles and unique themes of each room kept the suspense running. We highly recommend you check it out this year if you enjoy intense haunted attractions.

The Underground Farm
The Sunken Manor 
2185a Keeler Mill Rd. Greenville SC 29617 

Things to do Indoors with Teens in Greenville

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Looking for things to do inside with teens near Greenville, SC? While we know Greenville is a wonderful place for little kids, it’s also a town that has plenty of things to do indoors with teens, everything from laser tag and trampoline parks to volunteering opportunities and movies.

We’ve compiled some of the best things to do inside with teenagers in Greenville. If we missed something, let us know in the comments!

things to do inside with teens

Things to do Indoors with Teens in Greenville

Arcades, Laser Tag, Mini-Golf

Main Event is Greenville’s newest entertainment venue with bowling, laser tag, and arcade games, You’ll also find a restaurant, bar, and billiards. They run specials like kids eat free and all-you-can-play nights. Here’s our Kidding Around article on Main Event.

Main Event
225 Entertainment Boulevard
Greenville, SC

Frankie’s Fun Park is a mecca of arcade games, mini-golf, laser tag, and road courses, Frankie’s Fun Park is a great place to get out some energy with teens. There are plenty of activities for everyone to enjoy no matter what their interests are. Attractions are priced separately and there are food options as well.

45 Park Woodruff Drive, Greenville
Visit Frankie’s Fun Park website.

The Big E in Gaffney is another great place for indoor fun. They have arcades, laser tag, mini-golf, bumper cars, and a ropes course (outdoors). Check out our video tour here.

1100 Factory Shops Blvd, Gaffney (I-85 at exit 90 next to the Gaffney Premium Outlets); 864.564.5270
Visit the The Big E website.

Trampoline Parks

Greenville is home to Gravitopia and Sky Zone, both really fun trampoline park with ninja courses, foam pits and extreme. Gravitopia hosts a Club Night for kids 15 and older and Sky Zone has an event called Glow that is similar. And if you’re up for a little drive, Big Air Trampoline Park in Spartanburg just celebrated their 1st birthday and is super cool. They host Cosmic Nights, which is perfect for teens, every Friday and Saturday night.

Sky Zone
2465 Laurens Road, Greenville; 864.558.2400
Visit the Sky Zone website.

Big Air Trampoline Park
660 Spartan Blvd, Spartanburg; 864.580.6462
Visit Big Air Trampoline Park website.

Big Air Greenville
36 Park Woodruff Drive, Greenville; 864.626.5252
Big Air Greenville’s Website

big air greenville sc

Create Art

If you’ve ever been to Artisphere, you’ll understand how vibrant the art community is in Greenville. There are mediums for any level of interest and talent in art – painting, pottery, felting, welding. It’s all here. These places below offer all kinds of art classes or the opportunity to paint your own potter.

Greenville Center for Creative Arts

Hummingbird Hill Art Studio

Color Clay Café

Maya Movement Arts (an aerial arts studio)

Wine and Design

Vino & van Gogh

Volunteering

There are tons of opportunities for teens to volunteer and give back to their community. There are soup kitchens, Meals on Wheels, and places like Project Host. The City of Greenville also accepts teen volunteers for their many festivals.

Here is a list of places to volunteer in the Greenville area.

Escape Rooms

For a unique experience, teens can try using their best investigative skills to break out of a room together in 60 minutes or less.

Greenville Escape Room
319 Garlington Road, Suite A-5, Greenville; 864.982.5083
Visit Greenville Escape Room’s website.
Teens under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.

Breakout Greenville
614 N Main Street, Greenville; 864.326.0190
Visit Breakout Greenville’s website.
Teens under 14 must be accompanied by an adult.

Escape Artist Greenville
217 East Stone Avenue, Greenville; 864.509.9305
Visit Escape Artist Greenville’s website.
Teens under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.

Indoor Karting

What would a teenager like more than speeding in a car around an indoor race track? Let them get out those urges at a go kart facility. Kids under 18 can race during the week before 5 pm and on weekends before 2 pm.

Speed Factory Indoor Karting
1524 Roper Mountain Road, Greenville; 864.412.3323
130 E Daniel Morgan Avenue, Spartanburg; 864.447.4000
Visit Speed Factory Indoor Karting’s website.

woman putting on bowling shoes

Bowling

Bowling alleys have stepped up their game and aren’t the sketchy establishments of the 90s any longer. Greenville has some good options to bowling for teens.

Stone Pin Company
304 E Stone Avenue, Greenville; 864.412.7228
Visit Stone Pin Company’s website.

Spare Time Entertainment
822 Congaree Road, Greenville; 864.412.0299
Spare Time Entertainment’s website

Bowlero
740 S. Pleasantburg Drive, Greenville; 864.242.5724
Visit Bowlero’s website.

Peach Bowl Lanes
14515 E Wade Hampton Blvd, Greer; 864.877.8340
Visit Peach Bowl Lane’s website.

Wade Hampton Lanes
3065 Wade Hampton Blvd, Taylors, SC; 864.268.4136
Visit Wade Hampton Lanes’ website.

Golden Park
108 Balcome Blvd, Simpsonville; 864.967.8551
Visit the Golden Park’s website.

Rock Springs Bowling Alley
207 Rock Springs Road, Easley; 864.442.2057
Visit the Rock Springs Bowley Alley website.

Movies

There are always the movies. And teens still love going to them.

Regal Cinemas Hollywood 20
1025 Woodruff Road, Greenville; 864.462.7342
Visit Regal Cinemas Hollywood 20’s website.

Camelot Cinemas
48 East Antrim Drive, Greenville; 864.235.6700
Visit Camelot Cinema’s website.

Regal Cinemas Cherrydale 16
3221 North Pleasantburg Drive, Greenville; 844.462.7342
Visit Regal Cinemas Cherrydale 16’s website.

Do you have a great place for teens to add to our list?

Guide to things to do indoors, Greenville, SC

Get the full indoor guide full of things to do inside in the Upstate, SC.

Shop Online At Asheville, NC Businesses

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Western North Carolina and Asheville, NC have lost much of their tourist season due to the extensive damage from Helene. Small businesses count on this season to keep their doors open. This holiday season, we can help by doing our online shopping just a little bit differently. Instead of going to big box online stores, we can switch up our shopping websites and visit locally owned WNC businesses online.

How many gifts can you cross off your list while supporting these local shops that are missing their critical foot traffic this year?

We’re still building this list. Make sure to bookmark it and check back soon!

Shop Local WNC and Asheville online

Gifts For Crafty People

Black Mountain Yarn Shop

Black Mountain, NC
This locally-owned yarn shop offers all kinds of fiber items. From beautiful yarn to fabric, and even craft kits, you’ll find something here for the crafty folks in your life. Check out these fun sock kits!
Black Mountain Yarn Shop

Purl’s Yarn Emporium

Asheville, NC
Here’s another shop where you can purchase local yarn and hand-dyed yarn for your projects. We are loving all of this WNC local yarn.
Purl’s Yarn Website

Gifts for the Foodies

Spice it UP

Black Mountain, NC
You’ll find a wide variety of elevated spices and teas, plus related pots and kitchen items. This Capecod Cranberry tea sounds amazing.
Spice it Up

Honey and the Hive

Weaverville, NC
In addition to bee hive supplies, this shop has honey, gifts, books, candles, and more! We’re looking at all this delicious local honey. Yum. Is there anyone who wouldn’t want a jar of that under the tree this year?
Honey and the Hive Website

French Broad Chocolates

Asheville, NC
French Broad Chocolates suffered flood damage. You can help them out by purchasing chocolate this year! And really, chocolate always makes a good gift right? Get hot chocolate mixes, gourmet bars of chocolate, and there’s even a Bon Bon of the Month club. Don’t forget the gift cards.
French Broad Chocolates

Asheville Bee Charmer

Asheville, NC
Honey and local bee and honey-themed gifts. The honey gift baskets are cute and very reasonably priced. Everyone in my family might be getting honey this year.
Asheville Bee Charmer

Beauty Gifts

C and Co. Skincare

Asheville, NC
Purchase natural skincare products from this locally-owned Asheville business. We’re looking at those lavender sugar scrubs and soaps.
C and Co. Skincare Website

Gifts for Music Lovers

Citizen Vinyl

Asheville, NC
Vinyl records are in. This is actually one of my favorite gifts for my husband as we love to crack open a board game and put on a record for a date night in. Find used and new vinyl and other merchandise at Citizen Vinyl’s website.
Citizen Vinyl Website

Heyday Musical Instruments

Asheville, NC
If you’re looking to purchase a guitar as a gift this year, check out Heyday.
Heyday Musical Instruments

Gifts for Her

Virtue Boutique

Asheville, NC
A unique boutique for women with a wide variety of clothing items and accessories from more formal dresses to band shirts.
Virtue Boutique

Charmed Boutique

Asheville, NC
Boutique for women carrying clothing and accessories. We love this pretty pine tree pendant necklace and this color-block hooded cardigan.
Charmed Boutique

Embellish Asheville

Asheville, NC
Handbags, scarves, jewelry, and cozy scarves; all the beautiful accessories in one online shop. These beaded feather earrings are super cool.
Embellish Asheville Website

Toys & Things For Kids

Curio

Asheville, NC
You’ll find toys and lots of soft stuffies at Curio. This stuffie mushroom is adorable.
Curio Website

Dancing Bear

Asheville, NC
Dancing Bear has all the toys from puzzles and games, to figurines, Lego, Playmobile, trains, and lots more. Green Toys, like this ferry boat with cars, were always a favorite in our house!
Dancing Bear Website

Gifts for Everyone

Sassafras Bookstore

Black Mountian and Waynesville, NC
Sassafras has a wide variety of books. Use staff picks lists for ideas and check out the kids tab of the website for great reads for kids.
Sassafras Bookstore

Plays in the Mud Pottery

Asheville, NC
Wow! The pottery at Plays in the Mud is so fun! Take a look at these flower mugs. They would be fabulous under the tree. Plus, Plays in the Mud has pretty vases, travel mugs, and lots more!
Plays in the Mud

Europa Fine Gifts

Black Mountain, NC
This gift shop offers American and European gifts including pottery, ornaments, and even ornate cuckoo clocks. We are looking at this adorable snowman mug.
Europa Fine Gifts Website

CW Moose Trading Compay

Black Mountain, NC
T-Shirts, hats, and other merchandise with a Blue Ridge Mountain theme out of Black Mountain.
CW Moose Trading Company Website

Mountain Made

Asheville, NC
Mountain Made carries locally made art from pottery to wood crafts, blacksmith works, soaps, and lots more. Support a local business and a local artisan by purchasing your gifts here, like this berry pie pottery dish.
Mountain Made Website

Moonlight Makers

Asheville, NC
Shirts and bags with funny sayings, candles, mugs, cups and more.
Moonlight Makers Website

Razberry Threads

Asheville, NC and Hendersonville, NC
Find gifts including unique clothing styles, bath and body gifts, scarves, and more at Razberry Threads. These hedgehog socks would be an adorable stocking stuffer. Free shipping on $100 or more.
Razberry Threads

Union His + Her Boutique

Asheville, NC
Boutique-style clothing for men and women. Look at this pretty contrast pullover sweater.
Union His + Her Website

Instant Karma

Asheville, NC
Instant Karma says they are Asheville’s one-stop hippie shop.
Instant Karma

Do you know of a local WNC business we should add to this shopping list? Let us know! Email Maria@kiddingaroundgreenville.com

The Ultimate Greenville, SC Gift Guide

Looking for more gifts?
We have lots of ideas!

The Kidding Around® Ultimate Gift Guide

Get Someone Else To Do The Cooking For Thanksgiving Dinner in Spartanburg, SC

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Looking for a take-home dinner for Thanksgiving in Spartanburg, SC? Or are you looking to dine out for Thanksgiving? Or maybe grab some carry-out or pick up a few prepared sides to sit beside your home-cooked meal? We’ve checked with local restaurants to see which ones you can count on for that holiday meal. Our list includes restaurants in Spartanburg with dine-in options as well as full meals and sides available for take-out.

These are your Thanksgiving Restaurants in Spartanburg, SC.

Thanksgiving Restaurants in Spartanburg, SC

Thanksgiving meals

Looking for more fun things to do in Greenville & Spartanburg for Thanksgiving? Here’s your Thanksgiving Celebration Guide!

Don’t forget many places are taking orders and reservations already. Don’t wait to make your plans, you may need to pre-order your meal this holiday season!

Local Restaurants Open on Thanksgiving in Spartanburg, SC

Wade’s Restaurant

1000 N Pine Street Spartanburg | 864.582.3800
Wade’s is a true Spartanburg staple. They offer frozen food for pickup but not cooked meals. They are suggesting families who want this option pick up food now since they aren’t holding anything and their frozen food lasts six months.

Clevedale Historic Inn & Gardens

1050 Willis Road, Spartanburg | 864.345.2394
The Clevedale Inn serves a Thanksgiving feast meal at 3 PM, for $145 per person. Tickets for the meal must be purchased in advance.

CityRange Steakhouse and Grill

774 Spartan Boulevard. Spartanburg | 864.327.3333
NOTE: 2025 Information is not available yet. CityRange is taking reservations for Thanksgiving Day! They’ll be open from 11 am – 4 pm, taking reservations up until 3:45 pm. Call 864-327-3333 to make a reservation. They’ll also have their to-go meals available.

Heirloom: A Milltown Eatery

805 Spartan Boulevard, Spartanburg | 864.913.1212
NOTE: 2025 Information is not available yet. Thanksgiving lunch will be served from 11 am to 3:30 pm with appetizers such as Heirloom biscuits and Sorghum butter, and main courses like fried Joyce Farm turkey or Cheerwine glazed ham. There will be multiple side dishes to choose from, and two delicious dessert options to finish off the meal. The cost is $48 per person and $20 for ages 12 and under. Make your reservation as soon as possible.

Spartanburg Marriot Thanksgiving Brunch

299 N Church Street, Spartanburg | 864.596.1211
NOTE: 2025 Information is not available yet.
Gather for a delicious Thanksgiving brunch buffet from 11:00 am – 3:30 pm (with the last seating at 2:30 pm) on Thanksgiving Day. Adults are $45 for the brunch, and children ages 6-12 are $25, and children 5 and under are free for the brunch. Make your reservation today!

National Chains open on Thanksgiving

Cracker Barrel

9021 Fairforest Rd, Spartanburg
Cracker Barrel is serving a special Thanksgiving menu in their dining rooms. You can also order a meal online that serves 10 people, with the choice of entree, sides, and rolls or biscuits.

Golden Corral Buffet and Grill

1492 W O. Ezell Blvd, Spartanburg
You can order a complete family meal with glazed ham, beef roast, or a whole roasted turkey, with traditional sides, yeast rolls, and a whole pie. You’ll need to order at least 72 hours in advance. Pickup starts November 4th.

Waffle House

24 hours a day, 365 days a year, Waffle House has your needs covered on any holiday, but especially on Thanksgiving. No, you will not be feasting on sweet potato casserole and Aunt Margie’s herby stuffing, but smothered hash browns, blueberry waffles, and bacon are not the worst trade-off we’ve ever seen. You probably won’t even miss the dinner rolls.

Restaurants in Spartanburg Offering Prepared Meals In-advance for Thanksgiving

The Beacon Drive-In

255 John B White Senior Boulevard, Spartanburg, SC | 864.585.9387
NOTE: 2025 Information is not available yet. This Spartanburg staple offers full holiday meals with an average 18 lb Butterball turkey, either fried or baked, along with a glazed Hilshire ham, 4 quarts of dressing, 2 quarts of gravy, 2 holiday sides, a quart of cranberry sauce, 30 yeast rolls, 2 holiday pies, and 2 gallons of tea for $269+. Additional meats and side dishes are available for purchase individually as well.

Dray: Bar & Grill

1800 Dray Road, Spartanburg | 864.310.4177
You can get a Thanksgiving Feast at Dray: Bar & Grill that you can take home with a turkey, sausage dressing, green bean casserole, glazed carrots, mashed potatoes, salad, pumpkin pie, and more. Orders must be placed at least a week ahead of time, so place yours today!

The Pauline Cafe

2960 Highway 56, Pauline | 864.586.1148
NOTE: 2025 Information is not available yet. You can order whole spiral ham, whole oven-roasted turkey, quarts and 1/2 pans of your favorite Thanksgiving sides, and more from The Pauline Cafe. They even offer a full Thanksgiving meal that is ready to heat in your oven that will feed 10 – 12 people. It includes honey glazed ham, sliced turkey breast, gravy, cornbread dressing, mac n cheese, southern style green beans, mashed potatoes, rolls, cranberry sauce, 2 gallons of sweet tea, and your choice of pecan pie, sweet potato pie, or banana pudding for $250.00. Orders must be placed by Thursday, November 17th, 2022 for pickup Wednesday, November 23rd, 2022 from the cafe.

Blue Moon Specialty Foods

130 South Church Street, Spartanburg | 864.586.2344 
NOTE: 2025 Information is not available yet. You can preorder dishes for your Thanksgiving meals from Blue Moon SC to make the holiday cooking a little easier. They offer pre-sliced oven-roasted turkey, gravy, turkey rub, Mojo Marinade, mashed potatoes, broccoli casserole, pimiento cheese mac and cheese, and a lot more sides to choose from! They also have desserts for preorder. The deadline to preorder is Tuesday, November 14th with pickup on November 21st from 2 pm to 6 pm or November 22nd from 8 am to 4 pm. Orders can be placed over the phone at 864-586-2344, by email at orders@bluemoonsc.com, or through the online form.

Flavorshack Hot Chicken & Ribs

2144 E Main Street, Duncan | Call 864-915-3554 or 864-249-6078 to order
NOTE: 2025 Information is not available yet. You can purchase full turkeys, gravy, sides, rolls, and more from Flavorshack Hot Chicken & Ribs to make your Thanksgiving meal complete. You can purchase for pickup or delivery through their website’s order page.

Southside Smokehouse

726 South Howard Avenue, Landrum | 864.457.4581
NOTE: 2025 Information is not available yet.If you need the perfect Thanksgiving turkey, Southside Smokehouse has you covered. They offer slow-smoked, brined-by-hand turkeys for $80 with pickup available on Tuesday, November 26th, or Wednesday, November 27th, 2024. They also have family-sized orders for traditional sides, including gravy, dressing, mac n cheese, casseroles, and more. Call, email mccluresm@gmail.com, or go into the restaurant to reserve your feast!

Delightful Dishes

13144 Asheville Highway, Inman | 864.472.6305
2025 Thanksgiving menu is close but your favorite frozen casseroles, prepared salads and desserts are still available while supplies last. So better act fast.

Whatever your plans are for this Thanksgiving, we at Kidding Around hope that your day is peaceful and filled with blessings. A good meal is always a great place to begin.

Guide to Hurricane Helene Relief & Recovery in the Upstate

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We’ve put together several pieces to help Greenville recover and assist others with recovery post-Helene.

Storm Recovery in the Upstate

Find help with immediate needs here, like where to get a free meal, food distribution, access to laundry, showers, and more.

Storm Recovery Resources

You Can Hep! Food Bank and Relief Agency Needs near Greenville, SC

Help your community and Western North Carolina. Here’s what food banks and relief agencies need right now. We have wish lists and places seeking monetary donations.

Volunteering after Helene

Volunteer! There are many immediate needs in the Upstate where you can donate your time and labor. Yes, there are opportunities for kids!

Things to do after the storm

What’s open? Need to get out and have a little fun? Here’s what’s open along with some special deals and things to do.

Tree Services, roofing, Greenville, SC

Find Home & Property Services including tree removal, roof repair, fence repair, and more.

Storm Recovery Resources: Upstate, SC

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As the Upstate strains to recover from the impacts of Hurricane Helene, we have compiled all relevant social posts and information here in one spot to make it easier for you to find information and to help people.

Storm Recovery in the Upstate

Greenville County list of Food Resources by LiveWell Greenville.

Free Meal & Food

Free lunch 10/7 for kids starting at 11:30. Lost River Subdivision behind the Target at the neighborhood Pavilion. *until supplies run out

Berea Elementary and Lakeview Middle: free lunch pick up for kids and families starting at noon.

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Food Banks & Food Assistance

There are many food banks in the Upstate that can provide food assistance.

The Storehouse at 5 Point Church is opening these dates and times for drive thru service for their food pantry:

  • Wednesday 4-7pm
  • Thursday 10am-1pm
  • Saturday 9-11am
  • Please bring your photo ID; 1021 S. Pendleton Street, Easley

Greer Relief is providing emergency food distribution through Friday from 10-4 pm. They are also open with charging stations, water, WiFi, and bathrooms for those that need them.

Greenville County Emergency Management is distributing bottled water and MREs (Meals Ready to Eat) at 35 E. Antrim Drive in the parking lot beside McAlister Square from 10 am to 6 pm.

North Greenville Fire Department has bottled water and MRE’s available at 923 Tigerville Rd.

Tryon International: Free supplies are available to anyone who needs them, for humans, pets and livestock. This distribution center will operate as a drive-through, staffed with volunteers and Tryon International team members, as part of the Polk County network of disaster relief locations. Follow signs for drive-through pick up or drop off of supplies.  Limited showers and laundry facilities are available at the Lodging Office building at 2676 John Shehan Road. Please bring your own towels for shower facilities, and expect a wait. 2676 John Sheehan Rd, Mill Spring NC 28756, Open 10 am – 6 pm.

What’s Open in the Upstate?

We’re sitting here at Flying Fox Coffee in Greer enjoying the power and hot coffee! What else is open in the Upstate? Here’s our most current list.

What’s Open in the Upstate

Also, see our growing list of Things to Do After the Storm with deals and offers from local businesses and venues helping out.

Ice

Try the Ice2U App to get real-time information about ice availability.
There’s also a thread on the Kidding Around Greenville Facebook Page for ice.

Free ice Tuesday through Friday beginning at 9 am at GFN Church 1201 Haywood Road, Greenville. *While supplies last.

ATM

Find functioning ATMs in Greenville and the Upstate according to our readers.

Follow the Kidding Around Greenville Facebook Page

We’re sharing all the good news and ways the community is helping like free meals, power stations, washers, and more all on our Kidding Around Greenville Facebook Page. It’s the fastest way to see what is available for you right now.

Hot Showers and Laundry

What Laundry Mats are Open?

Green Laundry Lounge is open.
Readers report Laundry Plus on Howell Road is open.

The Walmart on Woodruff Road has a place to take a hot shower, do laundry, and get water

Kids Play & Cafe is open and is offering first-come first-serve laundry services.

Supplies

Piedmont Women’s Center is giving out diapers and formula. They have diapers, size newborn and 1-6, wipes, and formula. They are open until 4:30pm 10/2

Assistance for People with Disabilities

Able SC is here to assist people with disabilities with their recovery after Hurricane Helene. Please use the following form if you have unmet needs due to Hurricane Helene. If this is an immediate emergency, please be sure to contact 911 in addition to the form- follow the link for details: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeafm5yVAUixQwXdfxvsbbVP6FR_PfYyt6UxthnBmKxpBVv6g/viewform

You can also reach them by calling 800-681-6805 during regular hours or at 1-803-233-2974 or 1-803-233-2616 after hours. You can also email info@able-sc.org. Please mark your email as urgent. Service details and how to stay safe after a storm, including food safety: ablesouthcarolina.salsalabs.org/stormssep2024helene

Their response and recovery services are available on our website. Able SC Emergency Services webpage: able-sc.org/get-support/emergency-preparedness-and-response   Note: Their Greenville office is closed to the public until further notice.

Where is There Wifi in the Upstate?

Need to get work done? Our Kidding Around Facebook page has a list of where our readers say you can find Wifi now in Greenville and the Upstate. Here’s the Instagram Wifi Thread.

Also, check these places:

Water

Water service continues in Greenville, without issue.

Anderson, SC Storm Recovery Resources

Here’s a link to several assists in Anderson.

Here is a link to an NC Air rescue page that is in need of donations

Volunteer Opportunities

We are posting volunteer opportunities as we see them to our Facebook page but GVLtoday put together this fantastic list of how to help as well.

Food Bank and Relief Agency Wish Lists

Things to Do at Home

stuck at home things to do

We have a list of things to do at home with no power in our Stuck at Home Guide.

Challenge Island Helps Parents with STEAM Activities

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Challenge Island is here to make learning fun for families navigating today’s educational twists and turns. Local mom and business owner Michelle Paddenburg knows how challenging it can be to keep kids engaged. With years of experience in education and childhood development, she’s on a mission to create a vibrant community through Challenge Island, offering creative programs that make learning a whole lot easier—and way more fun!

Class and Activity Guide

Looking for more fun things to do? Be sure to check out our Classes and Activities Guide for Greenville, SC!

Challenge Island Greenville SC

Challenge Island

Challenge Island is an award-winning program specializing in STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math) activities and camps. With a focus on creativity, learning, and critical thinking, Challenge Island programs help prepare kids to excel at school and teach them real-world skills at the same time. 

The Greenville Challenge Island Center offers onsite field trips, camps, afterschool enrichment classes, Girl Scout workshops, birthday parties, family engagement and parental involvement programs, bullying prevention programs, and book series programs.

There are three options to engage your child with Challenge Island programs: in-person at the Challenge Island site, virtual, or in-person at a place of your choosing. Michelle recognizes that everyone has different levels of comfort when it comes to the best situations for their families and friends and she’s happy to work with parents on whatever fits their needs best. 

The virtual programs are all live so kids and parents can ask questions and engage with the instructors in real time. Challenge Island virtual camps were voted the Top Virtual Camp in the country by Parade Magazine and their virtual camps also took the highest honor from Business Insider. In our new world saturated by virtual learning, these awards are certainly noteworthy. 

Ages and Programs

Challenge Island in Greenville has programs specifically geared for preschool and Kindergarten all the way up through age 14. They also offer family night experiences where everyone can participate in educational and fun games. 

Summer and school break camps include fun themes like Slimetopia, Island Doll Girl Empowerment, Pets Palooza, Steam Tank Entrepreneur, and more!

Other challenges that homeschooling families may like involve history and timelines that fit well within cross-curricular programs. For example, kids may take a visit to Time Machine Island where they travel back to ancient Egypt, learn about mummies, write their names in hieroglyphics, and learn about the geometric power of the mighty triangle before engineering Egyptian-style pyramids to house their tribal treasures. As a parent, that sounds fun to me!

Challenge Island Greenville SC

Pricing for Challenge Island Greenville, SC Classes

You can see programs and classes available at the Challenge Island Website. The cost for programs vary by length and time but enrichment classes are typically $15/$16 per class.

Challenge Island Greenville
864.286.8061

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