Archive for the ‘Guides’ Category

Top Desserts: Greenville SC (KABOOM Winners)

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Looking for the best desserts in Greenville, SC? If you’re looking for a delicious treat, this is the list for you. Our readers voted for their favorite desserts in Greenville, SC as part of our annual KABOOM Awards contest. These KABOOM Award Winners are Greenville’s top sweet treats.

Top Desserts in Greenville SC

2026 Kaboom Awards Winners

Best sweet treats and desserts in Greenville, SC

1st Place: Dillard’s Ice Cream

Finalists:

  • Good Karma Ice Cream
  • Ice Cream Station
  • Clare’s Creamery
  • Scout’s Doughnuts
Complete Restaurant Guide to Greenville, SC

Find more delicious!

Don’t miss our Kidding Around Guide to Restaurants in the Upstate


KABOOM Awards Guide

2025 KABOOM Awards

1st Place: Ice Cream Station

Finalists:

2024 KABOOM Awards

1st Place: Houni’s Italian Ice

Finalists:

  • Dillard’s Ice Cream
  • Clare’s Creamery
  • Ice Cream Station Simpsonville
  • The Crazy Mason

Local and Loved: Ice Cream and Frozen Treats in Greenville, SC

Where to Rent Bounce Houses Near Greenville, SC

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Are you looking for the best places to rent a bounce house in Greenville, SC? Parents can’t really go wrong with bounce house and inflatable rentals for a birthday party or special occasion. Instant entertainment and an epic backyard party await. But where can parents rent inflatable slides and bounce houses in Greenville, SC? We asked that very question to our readers, who answered with their favorite bounce house businesses in town. If you’re looking for inflatable rentals, bounce house rentals, dry slides, inflatable water slides, bounce house obstacle courses, or a combo bounce, this is the list for you!

bounce houses Greenville, SC

Birthday Party Guide, Upstate, SC

If you’re planning a birthday party, don’t miss our Ultimate Guide to Birthday Parties in Greenville and Spartanburg. You’ll find places to host your party, plus cake makers, cookie decorators, free birthday treats and so much more!

Bounce House Rentals: Greenville, SC

These bounce house rental companies will bring the birthday party fun to you in the Upstate, covering areas near Greenville, SC including Travelers Rest, Taylors, Greer, Simpsonville, and Easley.

More than just bounce houses, these companies have all kinds of inflatable rentals. Greenville, SC has businesses that rent everything from bounce castles to obstacle courses and slides.

SC Party Rentals (formerly Monker Jumpers)

Monker Jumpers, which is now known as SC Party Rentals, got lots of love from our readers, who noted the affordability and excellent customer service of the company. SC Party Rentals has several bounce houses, inflatable dry and wet slides, inflatable carnival games, and obstacle courses. 

Rates:

  • The smaller carnival games start around $30 and bounce houses at $175.
  • Set up and delivery are included with most rentals. 

864.982.6796

What our readers say: 

Monker jumpers! Tons of options and super affordable!

Hayley

Monker Jumpers, LLC. $175 for a bounce house/dual slide combo! Wonderful company to work with and awesome customer service

Dawn

Monker Jumpers, LLC. The best hands down!

Ashley

Wright Inflatables & Party Rentals

Kidding Around readers also really love Wright Inflatables for their products and customer service. Both wet and dry slides are offered as well as bounce houses and combos. 

Rates:

  • Bounce houses start at $175 and slides at $350.
  • Setup is included in the price; delivery is free within 15 miles of their warehouse and costs by the mile, every 15 miles thereafter.

864.702.2556
What our readers say: 

I just used The Wright Inflatables and Party Rentals and omg!! Love love them! Great ppl and great service!!!

Annamarie

HANDS DOWN!! The Wright Inflatables and Party Rentals. The owners are outstanding, always available for your needs and the costs just can’t be beat! We will take our business nowhere else!!

Jillian

Silly Bob’s Inflatables

There are bounce houses, slides, games, combo inflatables, obstacle courses and even an inflatable movie screen offered by Silly Bob’s.

Rates:

  • Bounce houses start at $205 for a full day
  • Rentals include set up and take down

864.346.4201

What our readers say:

Silly Bob’s! We’ve used them for 4 years now.

Erin

Sky Rocket Inflatables

Owner Shane Quinn rents out three inflatables from Sky Rocket.

Rates:

  • Bounce house rentals start at $175
  • Set up and delivery are included

What our readers say:

Sky rocket inflatables is awesome!

Beth
bounce houses Greenville, SC

Up-N-Jumping

Jump into the world of inflated fun from bounce houses to wet/dry slides to carnival games & concessions. Perfect for all events & special occasions! 

Rates:

  • Rentals start at $100 – Includes set up & take down. *Delivery fee may apply 

864.380.8447

Throwing an outdoor birthday party? Be sure to read Where to Throw an Outdoor Birthday Party.

Resources and services guide to the Upstate of South Carolina

Looking for more great resources for parents in Greenville, SC? You’ll want to check out our Resources & Services Guide!

Test giveaway

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First Steps 4K: Access to Free and Low-Cost 4K Childcare

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There’s a new initiative in Greenville County that is providing free and low-cost access to preschools and other childcare facilities to families with young children. This initiative has been in the making for a long time, and it’s finally here. Read all about Greenville County’s new First Steps 4K program, learn eligibility requirements, and how this will impact our community.

The History and Purpose of First Steps 4K

Over 20 years ago, a group of community members, teachers, and parents got together to discuss how Greenville could serve families with young children. The number one goal was to provide access to free and low-cost childcare for these families. The Greenville First Steps board explored how to leverage federal, state, and local taxpayer-funded services in partnership with current childcare providers to create a network of services.

The result is finally here: First Steps 4K.

Greenville County School District, SHARE Head Start, and over 200 childcare providers in Greenville County have partnered to create a network of free and low-cost childcare services for families with 4-year-olds.

Childcare providers range from school-based to private to church-based, and most offer free 4K services. Some also offer discounted services for younger siblings.

Eligibility Requirements for First Steps 4K

There are eligibility requirements in order to receive the benefits of the program.

For the 2022-2023 school year, in order to qualify, your child must be:

  • 4 years old on September 1, 2022
  • Eligible for Medicaid, free/reduced-price lunch, or SNAP/TANF recipient; experiencing homelessness or transiency; or in foster care
  • A resident of South Carolina

You can easily check your child’s eligibility at Free4KSC.org.

First Steps 4K+ Siblings Program

Siblings (ages 0-12) of 4-year-olds who are enrolled in First Steps 4K may qualify for childcare scholarships. There are some eligibility requirements. Read the details bout First Steps 4K+ Siblings program.

How First Steps 4K Works

Once your eligibility is confirmed, you’ll be able to select your choice of program type: private, school-based, community-based, or faith-based. All programs are in-person, 5 days a week during the school year. Most programs are full 8-hour days, and some operate year-round. It’s easy to filter through programs to find the perfect one for your family.

Choose your preferred program, and then submit your application online. Be sure to provide a working email address and apply soon. Spots are limited.

If you or a family you know might benefit from this program, you can visit Free4KSC.org for more information.

Travel Guide: Places to Visit in Georgia With Family!

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Are you looking for places to visit in Georgia with family that are exciting, fun, and full of adventure? Georgia offers everything from Bavarian towns to beaches where you will feel like you are alone on the planet (and everything in-between). We’ve gathered all our Georgia adventures in one convenient spot, to help you decide which destination is right for your family. 

What Region of Georgia Are You Visiting?

Georgia is split into three regions with distinct characteristics. The North Georgia Mountain Region offers hiking, camping, state parks, and mountain towns like Helen, Georgia. The Piedmont Region is home to Atlanta and its surrounding suburbs, perfect for a weekend trip because of the number of exciting things to do! Lastly, the Coastal Plains Region offers beautiful beaches and rivers to explore, including areas such as Augusta, Savannah, and Jekyll Island. We have gathered reviews of many of these places below!

Georgia Travel Guide: Family getaways in Georgia

Family Getaways in Georgia: North Georgia Mountains

Traveling to the North Georgia Mountains? The mountainous region of Northern Georgia offers some stellar hiking, river tubing, camping, waterfalls, and more!

Get the North Georiga Guides

See More of the N. Georgia Mountains

Here are some fabulous mountain towns to visit complete with suggestions on things to do, where to eat, and even places to stay.

Blairsville, GA

View of a truck in Blairsville, Georgia

Find out why we think Blairsville, GA is such an amazing place to visit in our Guide to Blairsville, Georgia.

We have lodging information, places to eat, stay, and visit!

If you are interested in exploring true Georgia culture, then Blairsville is the place to visit. With farms to explore, horseback riding, and resorts to relax at, there is something for everyone. Our guide to Blairsville, GA includes information on places like:

Helen, GA

Helen, Georgia street view

Our Guide to Helen Georgia will help you plan out the perfect day in one of the most unique towns in Georgia!

This Bavarian-style town has everything from river tubing, authentic German food, and Oktoberfest celebrations to amazing state parks and historical places to visit. Grab a few pamphlets from the visitors center and then go exploring. Our Guide to Helen, GA  includes information on:

Dillard, GA

Julep Farms, Dillard Ga

Check out Julep Farms to feed the farm animals, enjoy a delicious lunch, play some yard games, and lots more on stunning property!

Tallulah Gorge State Park

Hurricane Falls at Tallulah Gorge

Check out our review of Tallulah Gorge State Park to find all the details on making this a perfect day trip.

If you are seeking an adventure in Georgia that will spark awe, then Tallulah Gorge State Park is a bucket list destination. Only a 90-minute drive from Greenville, this state park offers 20 miles of hiking, spectacular waterfalls, and more!

Lake Lanier

Water slide at Fins Up Waterpark

There is a lot of fun to be had while using our Guide to Lake Lanier!

Escape to the islands of Lake Lanier for fun in the sun! You’ll find excellent lodging, a water park, water sports, and so much more! Fins Up Waterpark is new to the area, and it would make a great place to visit during a weekend getaway.


Family Getaways in Georgia: Piedmont Region

Get the Piedmont Guides

There are lots of places to visit in Georgia in family, but none compare to the immense amount of things to do in the Piedmont region. With Atlanta, Alpharetta, and Athens all within a short drive of each other, you can plan an entire weekend of fun and still not see all of the amazing things this area of Georgia has to offer.

Downtown Atlanta 

Hammerhead shark swimming by at the Predators of the Deep exhibit at the Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta, Georgia

Check out our list of 37+ Things to Do in Atlanta with Kids to help you plan out an amazing weekend or day trip!

Atlanta is an excellent option for family vacations! There is so much to do that it would take more than a day to see everything. Downtown Atlanta is fairly compact, so some of the places are only a short drive or are within walking distance of one another, and totally worth it! The experiences Atlanta offers are epic and memory-making!

Decatur, GA

Street view of Decatur, Georgia

Learn why we love Decatur, Georgia in our guide to over 23 Things to Do in Decatur with Your Family.

Decatur is located in the heart of Atlanta. Nestled away amongst the sky towering buildings and bustle of the big city, you’ll find flourishing trees, a thriving art scene, and even a nature preserve! Discover over 23 to do in Decatur, GA in our guide, including:

Dunwoody, GA

Tiger at Zoo Atlanta in Atlanta. GA

View our Guide to Dunwoody, GA to find more information on attractions that you will love exploring with your kids!

Not only does this Northern suburb of Atlanta have an amazing zoo (with adorable Pandas!), Dunwoody, GA is full of things to do, including:

Alpharetta, GA

Use our Guide to Alpharetta, GA to plan an excellent family getaway to this suburb of Atlanta.

A popular suburb of Atlanta, GA, Alpharetta has a lot to offer! It is just a 30 minute drive from Atlanta, so you can visit both in a day. Check out our Guide to Alpharetta, GA which includes reviews of the following:

Cartersville-Bartow, GA

Terminus Wake Park in Cartersville, Georgia.

See why our visit to Cartersville-Bartow, GA was amazing, and why we recommend you take your family for a visit on your next day trip!

This gem of an area has two Smithsonian-affiliated museums, both of which you need to visit during your trip! There is also a charming downtown, a super fun entertainment complex, a wakeboard and aqua park, a national historic site of an Indian Mound, and beautiful state parks. Check out our full review of Cartersville-Bartow, GA, and be sure to visit these sites:

Newnan-Coweta, GA

Downtown Newnan, Georgia

Check out our review of Newnan-Coweta, GA, and explore this unique city near the Chattahoochee.

Step back in time in Newnan’s old town square, peruse local small businesses, shop for clothes and unique handmade goods, visit Senoia, where “The Walking Dead” and many other films were shot, check out the cute Senoia Farmers Market, and hike at Chattahoochee Bend State Park. Read our full review of Newnan-Coweta, GA to start planning your family’s trip and be sure to see these places:

Pine Mountain, GA- Callaway Resort and Gardens

Read our full review of Callaway Resort and Gardens and see why it’s great for a family getaway!

Bugonia at the Day Butterfly Center at Callaway Gardens

Callaway Resort and Gardens is one of Western Georgia’s true gems. The expansive grounds are filled with vibrant azaleas, scenic bike trails, a beautiful lake (complete with a summer aquapark), a massive butterfly conservatory, and a lovely Discovery Center, plus plenty more to explore. Staying at the on-site resort (lodges, villas, or cottages) can also be a great way to bundle your visit and save.

Some of our Callaway Garden and Resort Favorites:

  • Stay onsite in the lodge, villas, or cottages
  • Explore 2,500 acres of gardens, forests, and trails
  • Visit the Cecil B. Day Butterfly Center
  • Watch the Birds of Prey show
  • Huge lake with summer aquapark
  • Enjoy seasonal festivals, food & wine events, and holiday celebrations

Athens, GA

Exploring the Georgia Botanical Gardens

Our Guide to Athens, GA will help you plan a wonderful family trip to this gorgeous city.

Technically a satellite to Atlanta, Athens is absolutely worth the drive! Hometown to the University of Georgia, this family-friendly city-county has an expansive botanical garden, a beautiful nature park and hiking trail, delicious food, and a native wildlife zoo! Check out our review of Athens, Georgia, including:

Cobb County

Hanging out at Six Flags in Georgia

If you are headed to Six Flags Over Georgia, check out our review, which includes information on:

  • Rides
  • Parking
  • Food 

Cobb County is home to one of the most popular amusement parks in the country, Six Flags Over Georgia! You and your kids will ride roller coaster after roller coaster, while enjoying some of the park’s curated family-friendly activities.

LaGrange, GA

Hills & Dales Estate in LaGrange, GA

Beautiful for the holidays or any time of year, LaGrange, GA offers lots of family activities including a lovely Great Wolf Lodge!

Gwinnett County / Duluth

Gwinnett County, Georgia is one of the most culturally rich destinations in the Southeast, packed with authentic Korean BBQ, massive international markets, Asian bakeries, and one of the most stunning Hindu temples in the United States. We created a guide that walks you through a full weekend itinerary – where to eat, what to explore, and everything you need to know before you go – all just two hours from Greenville.

A weekend getaway to Gwinnett County, with great food, shopping, and lots of culture!

Visiting Gwinnett County Georgia with family

Places to Visit in Georgia With Family: The Coastal Region!

The Coastal Plains of Georgia are a site to see. The natural wildlife, river systems, sandy beaches with unique features, and rich history of the coast offer something for everyone.

Coastal Georgia Area Guides

Savannah River Area: Augusta, GA and Aiken

Kids exploring North Augusta

Check out our Guide to Central Savannah River Area, which includes:

  • Things to do in Aiken
  • Things to do in Augusta

The Savannah River Area is located in the northern part of the Coastal Plains bordering South Carolina, so it is rather inland from the coast. However, this area is rich in culture and history so it is definitely worth the 2-hour drive.

Savannah, GA

One of the most unique places in Georgia is Savannah. With a fantastic history, gorgeous scenery, and even a few haunted places (or a dozen) to visit, the city is a wonderful option for a family vacation to Georgia. The Savannah Historic District is even considered one of the most haunted places in the United States, so lovers of the paranormal will love it there.

Though we do not have any current reviews of Savannah, Georiga, we hope to in the future! Until then, check out Visit Savannah to help you plan out a fun trip!

Jekyll Island

View of the beach at Jekyll Island in Georgia

If you are looking for an otherworldly experience on the coast, then Jekyll Island is the place. Check out our review of Jekyll Island, which is loaded with things to do and helpful advice on where to stay and places to eat.



What are your favorite places to visit in Georgia with family? Let us know in the comments!

15+ Tips to Save Gas & Save Money

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Are you looking for ways to save fuel and a little money at the gas pump? With gas prices rising and people trying to cut down on their fuel consumption, we wondered what things we could do to save gas by increasing our gas mileage or fuel economy. Fortunately, we have a “car guy, engineer, husband” in our midst and he’s here to help Kidding Around Readers save money on gas at the pump.

This article includes:
Driving Tips to Save Gas for FREE
Does cruise control save gas?
Does “Eco Mode” really save gas?
Simple Maintenance that will Save Gas and Money
What is the cheapest thing to do to your car to help save gas?
Myths About Fuel Economy

This article is provided for general informational purposes only. Consult a certified mechanic for specific information and requirements for your particular vehicle.

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Where is the Cheapest Gas in Greenville, SC?

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Are you searching out the cheapest places to buy gas in Greenville? With the soaring gas prices that are affecting all our budgets, we decided it was time to ask our readers where they were buying the cheapest gas across the Upstate. Based on their findings we’ve compiled a small list of cheaper gas stations near Greenville, SC as reported by our readers. While we cannot provide real-time gas prices at local gas stations, there is an app for that, and we have information for you on that as well.

Cheaper gas stations in Greenville, SC

This article includes:
Cheaper Gas Stations in Greenville, SC
Gas Buddy App: Review and How to Use it
Tips to Save Money at the Pump

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Fully Furnished Rental Homes Near Greenville, SC

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Are you looking for a fully furnished rental home near Greenville, SC? Maybe you are building a home in Greenville, SC and need a short-term rental until your house is complete. Or, maybe you’re considering moving to Greenville, but want to live here for the short-term until you make a new home decision. Regardless of your situation, we know it can be difficult and time-consuming to find short-term rental homes that come fully furnished. So we’ve compiled a list of homes for you to consider.

When you book through these links, use the code KAG22 for an additional 10% off the already reduced rental fees by booking directly with StayGVL. You cannot use the code for stays longer than 28 days, instead, mention Kidding Around when you book your longer stay and you’ll still get a discount!

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