Archive for the ‘Guides’ Category

Stage Magic at The Peace Center: ’26-’27 Broadway Season, Big Laughs & Brilliant Music

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Have you experienced a live show at The Peace Center in Greenville, SC?

This premier performing arts venue is best known for hosting world-class Broadway productions, but that’s just the beginning. The Peace Center also features top-tier comedians, internationally renowned musicians, symphony orchestras, ballet performances, and a variety of special events year-round.



The Peace Center: Broadway performances, musical acts, and comedian event space in Greenville, South Carolina.

Types of Events at the Peace Center

The Peace Center currently has multiple event spaces where you can catch some fabulous theatre productions and musical acts. The Peace Concert Hall houses the biggest productions, like Broadway performances and major musical acts. You will find more intimate performances and special events in the Gunther Theatre adjacent to the main hall.  Their event schedule is always adding new things, so keep an eye out (or Google alert) so you don’t miss a thing!

The Peace Center also has an outdoor performance space right on the Reedy River, the Peace Pavilion (which is currently getting an upgrade, so it is under construction).

WICKED at the Peace Center in Greenville, SC
WICKED at the Peace Center

Peace Center Broadway Productions 2026/2027

It is pretty hard to make it to New York City to see a Broadway production, especially when you have kids. No worries, because the Peace Center hosts several Broadway performances each year, many of which are Tony Award-winning productions! 

These showings make an excellent date night or even go by yourself for some quality alone time. All of the shows are highly technical and have all the glitz, spectacular set design, and highly acclaimed actors and actresses that you would find on Broadway.

Find the Peace Center Broadway 2025-2027 season on the Peace Center website.

The 2025-2026 Peace Center Broadway season has a spectacular production season for the upcoming year, with some of Broadway’s greatest shows coming to Greenville. The season will kick off on September 2nd, 2025 with MJ the Musical.

Peace Center Broadway Season 2025-2026

Finishing out the 2025/2026 season

Here they are in chronological order with bolded titles and dates:

Performance held at the Peace Center in Greenville, SC.

Concerts, Comedians, Ballet, and More!

The Peace Center hosts some of the world’s most popular and iconic musicians and comedians throughout the year. The larger performances are usually held in the Peace Concert Hall. This event space has three levels, including the orchestra, the founder’s circle (the first piece of the balcony), and the third balcony. 

The acoustics are some of the best around; everything sounds better there because of the fabulous architectural design. Seating at the event space is comfortable, so the enjoyment is elevated. 

You can find information on the upcoming events at the Peace Center, including seating chart information, on their webpage to help you choose the best seats for your next night out.

If you are a classical music or jazz lover, then you will find some of the best symphony performances at The Gunter Theatre and the Peace Concert Hall throughout the year! They even have keynote speakers and special symphony events with the Greenville Symphony Orchestra.

You can also watch spectacular ballet productions, including annual performances of The Nutcracker by the International Ballet each winter. These performances are stunning and a wonderful way to get your children interested in performance arts.

Fraggle Rock at the Peace Center in Downtown Greenville, South Carolina
Fraggle Rock at the Peace Center

Things to Know Before You Go

  • The Peace Center is highly accessible and offers various accommodations to make all of its guests comfortable, including wheelchair accessibility, sign language interpreters, and assistive listening. Learn more about additional performance accessibility on the Peace Center website. 
  • Food and drink are not allowed inside the venue spaces except for the outdoor Peace Pavilion.
  • You are not allowed to take photos inside the concert halls, so keep your cell phones silent and take it in memory! 
  • Some shows are appropriate for children, but that is at the discretion of the parents. The Peace Center does recommend that children 5 and under not attend performances. 
  • Learn more about buying tickets and attending the show on the Peace Center’s information page.
The front entrance of the Peace Center in Downtown Greenville, South Carolina

Dining at Genevieve’s: Restaurant Inside the Peace Center

You can hold a table at Genevieve’s if you would like to have dinner and drinks before the event. This full-service restaurant is a great way to start your date night. The restaurant is open two hours before the event’s showtime. It is also open between the matinee and evening show during Broadway performances.

There are also several excellent restaurants in the area surrounding the Peace Center. You will find some of the best restaurants in our Guide to Restaurants in Downtown Greenville, including reviews and recommendations based on various criteria.  

Restaurants in Downtown Greenville, South Carolina.

Dining Downtown?

Check out our Guide to Restaurants in Downtown Greenville to make your date night perfect!

Peace Center Tickets

The only way to safely purchase Peace Center tickets for Broadway shows and musical acts is directly through the Peace Center event page or from the box office. If you would like to purchase a subscription package for the Peace Center Broadway productions, you can do that as well. The subscription gives you discounted tickets, premium seating options, and early access if you need additional tickets.

It is best to steer clear of third-party sellers to avoid annoying price hikes and the risk of receiving unusable tickets. 

Learn more about digital ticketing on the Peace Center website.

Parking Near the Peace Center

There is free parking along Main Street and on the crossing side streets. Public parking garages in the area can be found in our KA Guide to Parking in Downtown Greenville. The Poinsett Garage and River Place Garage are two of the closest parking garages to the Peace Center. 

During events, there are several paid parking lots in the vicinity, including directly across the street beside Grill Marks.

Check out our Guide to Parking in Downtown Greenville to find the best places to park (many of which are free nights and weekends).

Parking near the Peace Center in Greenville, SC


Peace Center
300 West Broad Street, Greenville
864.467.3000
Box office hours: Monday – Friday: 9:30 am – 5:30 pm


Peace Center in Greenville, SC

The Peace Center in Greenville, SC is one of the best performance halls in the entire Southeast, and it’s right here in Greenville! Watch Broadway performances, comedy gold, and some of the world’s best ballet and performance artists.


Trade-In Old Car Seats for Coupons: 2026 Target Car Seat Trade-In

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Do you have an old car seat to trade in? If you’ve got an old car seat around collecting dust, you can participate in the Target car seat trade-in program. All you have to do is trade it in, and the respective store will give you coupons or gift cards. Read on to learn how these programs work. The next Target car-seat trade-in event will be April 19th – May 2nd, 2026

Car seat trade in program Target
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Mother’s Day Planning Guide in Greenville SC

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Celebrate Mom in style with our ultimate Mother’s Day guide to Greenville, SC—your go-to resource for the best Mother’s Day Greenville, SC events, brunch spots, dinner restaurants, and unique gift ideas. Whether you’re planning a relaxing day filled with Mother’s Day brunch in downtown Greenville, searching for thoughtful local gifts for mom, or looking for fun events and activities to enjoy together, we’ve rounded up everything you need to make her feel special.

Mother's Day Guide to Greenville, SC

From family-friendly events and hands-on workshops where you can create something meaningful for Mom, to elegant Mother’s Day dinners and scenic outdoor experiences around Greenville, this guide highlights the top ways to celebrate. Discover the best things to do for Mother’s Day in Greenville, South Carolina, including local markets, craft classes, and unforgettable experiences she’ll love.

No matter how you choose to celebrate, let Greenville be the perfect backdrop for a memorable Mother’s Day.

Events for Mom

Mother’s Day events in Greenville, SC are pretty plentiful. This list has events you can take Mom to for Mother’s Day, events to help you get ready, and even a few events with things to make for Mom.

No Events

mother's day

What does Mom want for Mother’s Day? We asked.
Go here: What Moms in Greenville Want for Mother’s Day



Take Mom Somewhere Beautiful

Pack a picnic or some snacks and head out on a trail or visit a park. Usually free, and a great way to spend some time together as a family, getting outside is a great way to spend Mother’s Day.

Some Of The Upstate’s Best Bagels Can Be Found At Greenfields Bagels & Deli in Greenville, SC

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Love a good bagel? Delicious New York style bagels and sandwiches that are made fresh daily is what you’ll find at Greenfields Bagels & Deli off of Laurens Road in Greenville, SC. Plus, it’s kosher. They have 18 bagel topping options, including omelet bagels, along with a large selection of deli sandwiches, salads, vegetarian options, soups, smoked fish, and sweet treats! Learn more directly from owner Robin below.

Greenfields Bagels and Deli in Greenville, South Carolina

Greenfields Bagels and Deli In Greenville, SC

Owner’s name: Robin Greenfield

Do you have a kids’ menu?
Yes

What are your delivery options? Pickup inside only, Third-Party Delivery

Do you offer outdoor dining? Outdoor Dining – Open Air

What makes your spot unique?
Only kosher-style deli in the area. Fresh made bagels every day. Freshly made salads, soups, and deli sandwiches.

What dish is the most popular? Bagels

What dish are you the proudest of? Bagels

It’s my first time at your restaurant, what do you suggest we order?
The Reuben or Rachel sandwich and a dozen bagels!

Where do you love to eat when not at work?
Pita House

Gifting Options: Gift certificates

What Locals Are Saying About Greenfield’s Bagels

When we’re in Gvlle visiting, I always bring bagels home to sunny S Florida💕

Susie Koppele Lynn

Yes yes yes! Bagels, RAINBOW cookies, lox oh my! MY FAVE

Amanda H Hildreth

Just like New York bagels great place!

Robin Sommese

Their Rachel is so good!

Vicki Johnson

Learn More About Greenfield’s Bagels

Owner Robin at Greenfield's Bagel and Deli

Greenfield’s Bagels & Deli
101 Verdae Boulevard, Greenville | 864.987.0064206


Tandem Creperie in Travelers Rest, SC

Check out our list of the 5 best breakfast places in the Greenville area and see if your favorite made the cut.

7 Floors of Family Fun at Center in the Square in Roanoke, VA

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Looking for indoor things to do in Roanoke, Virginia? Center in the Square attracts visitors from all over Virginia’s Blue Ridge to downtown Roanoke with seven floors of indoor family fun. This multi-level downtown destination features aquariums, museums, arcades, live theatre, and even a rooftop restaurant—all in one place!

Parakeet, sandbox, arcade games, and rooftop restaurant shown in featured photo for the article

What to Expect at Center in the Square

1st Floor: Candy Store, Aquariums, & Live Theatre
2nd Floor: Pinball Museum, Arcade, & Private Lounge
3rd Floor: Children’s Museum for Ages 10 & Under
4th – 5th Floors: Science Museum of Western VA
6th – 7th Floors: Rooftop Restaurant

Address: 1 Market Square SE, Roanoke, VA 24011
Parking Garage: 11 Campbell Avenue, Roanoke, VA 24011

Learn more about Center in the Square with these frequently asked questions.


Thank you to Visit Virginia’s Blue Ridge for hosting us at Center in the Square in Roanoke.

Downtown building with signage for Center in the Square
Center in the Square in Roanoke, VA

When my family visited Center in the Square for the first time, we were all blown away! The moment we walked through the doors, we were delighted to find ourselves in a gorgeous atrium with a staircase leading up to unknown surprises. We found several floors of fun for the whole family, and we wished we had more time at every single one!

Note: Hours and pricing are provided for reader convenience, but may be subject to change at any time. Please confirm key details with Center in the Square at 540.342.5700.

First Floor at Center in the Square

Center in the Square’s first floor welcomes visitors with a combination of beauty, marine life, treats, and entertainment. Access to the first-floor atrium is complete free, and clean, accessible restrooms and water fountains are available on every floor.

The Candy Store

If you walk into the Center in the Square with kids, be prepared to stop at The Candy Store! This sweet spot is so bright and colorful, our kids thought it must be a toy store at first glance—but instead it offers a huge array of treats for the tastebuds. You’ll find a mix of popular candy brands and locally made confections in this locally loved candy shop.

Cost: Depends on what you buy!

Hours:

  • 10 am – 6 pm, Monday – Thursday
  • 10 am – 8 pm, Friday – Saturday
  • 12 pm – 6 pm, Sunday

Centered Celebration

While kids may run to the candy store, let your own eyes be drawn upwards to the colorful ribbons of aluminum and enamel cascading from the walls. This gorgeous work of art, entitled “Centered Celebration,” was lovingly crafted by Roanoke native and nationally renowned artist Dorothy Gillespie.

Dorothy Gillespie was born and raised in Roanoke, deciding early to pursue a career as an artist. Her paintings, sculptures, and other installations can be found across the United States. She has over a dozen works on public display in the Roanoke area alone, and it’s worth visiting every one!

Cost: Free.

Hours:

  • 10 am – 5 pm, Monday
  • 10 am – 8 pm, Tuesday – Saturday
  • 1 – 6 pm, Sunday

Atrium Aquariums

At eye level, kids will be delighted to discover both freshwater and saltwater aquariums with both native and exotic marine life. Expect to find vibrant fish, prickly sea urchins, and spiky starfish atop colorful coral habitats.

Cost: Free.

Hours:

  • 10 am – 5 pm, Monday
  • 10 am – 8 pm, Tuesday – Saturday
  • 1 – 6 pm, Sunday

Mill Mountain Theatre

Be sure to take a quick peek at Mill Mountain Theatre while you’re on the first floor. This company puts on professional performances year-round, including concerts, children’s productions, and a combination of classic, contemporary, and even original stageplays!

Consider checking out Mill Mountain Theatre’s performance schedule when planning your visit, in case you might like to try to catch a show.

Note for Parents: Exact standards for children’s performances may vary. If you have specific content concerns according to your family’s values, you may wish to contact the theatre in advance to ask about a show before purchasing tickets.

Cost: Ticket prices vary by performance, showtime, and seat selection. Special pricing options may be available for tickets purchased last-minute, by groups, or as part of a season package. Mill Mountain Theatre also provides limited pay-what-you-can seating for children’s productions, as part of their commitment to community engagement!

Box Office Hours:

  • 9:45 am – 4:45 pm, Tuesday – Saturday
  • 12:45 pm – 4:45 pm, Sunday
  • Closed Monday

Second Floor at Center in the Square

The second floor at Center in the Square is designed with gamers in mind. It’s an awesome place to connect with your kids over multiple generations of video games, or to just experience some nostalgia yourself!

In this section…

Return to the table of contents at the top.

Roanoke Pinball Museum

The Roanoke Pinball Museum offers dozens of modern and vintage games, even a brass Toupie Hollandaise from the 1800s! Adults and teens alike can enjoy this blast from the past as you play through pinball machines featuring Star Wars, Star Trek, Lord of the Rings, Ghostbusters, Doctor Who, The Beatles, and more.

Several pinball machines lining the walls of a room
Pinball Museum at Center in the Square in Roanoke, VA

Note for Parents: Several of the retro pinball machines prominently feature suggestive imagery commonly associated with 1970s and ‘80s bars and arcades. The museum is generally recommended for ages 8 years and older, but parents may wish to use discretion.

Cost: $15 entrance fee, no additional cost for games.

Hours:

  • 11 am – 8 pm, Tuesday – Saturday
  • 1 pm – 6 pm, Sunday
  • Closed Monday

Roanoke Starcade

The Roanoke Starcade is a major highlight at Center in the Square, offering 3,000+ arcade games for every age and interest! Families will find plenty to play together or split up, and parents will appreciate the ease with which you can supervise multiple kids on different games in different parts of the museum.

We loved discovering classic family favorites like skee ball, air hockey, and pop-a-shot basketball games. There were tons of racing and fighting games, and some we haven’t seen in decades like ATARI Pong, Dance Dance Revolution, and Guitar Hero. We found a huge line-up of Star Wars games alongside other popular franchises, and even a little horse game for our youngest daughter to enjoy.

An especially popular area was the home console corner, with multi-player games like Nintendo Switch, PlayStation Classic, Sega Genesis, and Super Nintendo.

Note for Parents: While the arcade offers games for all ages, some may display gory, suggestive, or other mature imagery. Parents may wish to be vigilant while navigating the arcade and use discretion about where to play based on your children’s ages.

Cost: $15 entrance fee, no additional cost for games.

Hours:

  • 11 am – 8 pm, Tuesday – Saturday
  • 1 pm – 6 pm, Sunday
  • Closed Monday
Featured photo for Roanoke, Virginia with an iconic star monument and mural of people dancing outside the Taubman Museum of Art

Don’t want to miss a thing in Roanoke, Virginia? Check out our Complete Family Travel Guide to Roanoke!

Level-Up Lounge

The Level-Up Lounge is a private party space which can be customized for birthday parties, professional gatherings, and more. Tables, chairs, tablecloths, and other options are available to provide the perfect experience for up to 60 guests.

Cost: Pricing varies with reservation details, but rates start at about $125/hour. Call Center in the Square at 540.342.5700 for additional information on pricing and packages.

Hours: By reservation only.

Third Floor at Center in the Square

The third floor of Center in the Square is designed especially for younger children, with hands-on exhibits and imaginative play spaces that can easily fill several hours with educational fun for your family.

In this section…

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Kids Square Children’s Museum

Kids Square Children’s Museum is one of the most impressive children’s museums we’ve visited, and we’ve been to quite a few! Its interactive exhibits are designed for children ages 10 years and younger, and most of the play areas will appeal to multiple ages, which makes it easy for parents to supervise siblings all in one space.

A little girl maneuvering a digger to scoop sand
Kids Square at Center in the Square in Roanoke, VA

The museum is laid out in a roughly linear fashion, with the entrance right near the middle. In the Construction Zone at the far end of the museum to your right, fully functioning diggers are available with limited hours, so be sure to ask about their availability when you visit! The Construction Zone also offers life-sized learning experiences with tools, trucks, and construction sites.

Our children are all pretty young, and The Forest exhibit was our family’s favorite. It features a toddler playground, climbing wall, child-sized camper, and plenty of open space to run around between them. We also loved the Baby and Toddler Play Area right next to it, which was packed with baby-appropriate play stations and a barrier separating it from the surrounding play areas.

The Forest and the Baby and Toddler Play Area at Kids Square, with life-size tree decorations, a small fenced play area for babies, and a climbing wall
Kids Square at Center in the Square in Roanoke, VA

Little kids will enjoy STEAM Town, where they can pretend their way through food trucks, a pizzeria, ice cream shoppe, fire station, and more. STEAM City is even more elaborate—with a play house, preschool, grocery store, bank, and a radical variety of specialty spaces like medical practices, fashion stores, and cable communications!

Many more exhibits await your exploration as you make your way through Kids Square, like a roadway with kid-sized cars, dig pit, glow room, and sensory stations. There’s no way to get bored here, and your kids are sure to land on something new every time you visit.

Cost: $11 admission, infants under 12 months old get in free.

Museum Hours:

  • 10 am – 4 pm, Tuesday – Wednesday
  • 10 am – 5 pm, Thursday – Saturday
  • 1 pm – 5 pm, Sunday
  • Closed on Monday

Digger Hours:

  • 11 am – 12 pm, Tuesday
  • 11 am – 12 pm & 3 pm – 4 pm, Friday – Saturday
  • 3 pm – 4 pm, Sunday
  • Closed on Monday, Wednesday, & Thursday

Fourth & Fifth Floors at Center in the Square

The fourth and fifth floors are home to one of the region’s top educational attractions, with two floors of interactive science experiences for curious kids and adults alike.

In this section…

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Science Museum of Western Virginia

The Science Museum of Western Virginia spans two stories and delivers a range of exhibits on everything from local wildlife to art, engineering, technology, and human health. We found hands-on exhibits for all ages, with most being ideal for elementary-aged kids and older.

The Eye Planetarium is a major draw to the museum, connecting science and art with immersive sensory experiences, traditional planetarium presentations on outer space, and unique cultural performances. Program times, cost, and age-appropriateness vary, so be sure to check the program schedule for details.

Two parakeets resting perched on a child's hands
Science Museum at at Center in the Square in Roanoke, VA

Our personal highlight was hands-down The Parakeet Garden on the upper level, where you can feed these beautiful birds as they land directly on you—from your hands to your shoelaces! Access to the garden is included with admission, but requires a museum guide to be available. Call ahead at 540.342.5710 to inquire about availability, and don’t miss making this memory with your kids!

A little girl in a dress uncovering dinosaur bones in a sand pit
Science Museum at Center in the Square in Roanoke, VA

For our youngest children, we loved The Cove and Tides Out, where touch tanks allow for gentle interactions with horseshoe crabs, sea stars, and more. They also enjoyed the Dino Dig and AR Sandbox, where they could build and dig in the sand. Other exhibits address a variety of ages and interests, like ancient ruins, animation, and movie magic.

Note for Parents: Some programs, exhibits, or signage may include messaging related to particular worldviews. Parents may wish to contact the museum in advance with questions about specific ideas presented, or plan to discuss any differences in beliefs with your children as needed.

Cost: Free admission for children under 3 years old, about $18 for children (ages 3 – 12 years), and $23 for adults (ages 13+) – these prices include taxes and fees. Discounts may be available for students, seniors, and military members.

Hours:

  • 10 am – 5pm, Tuesday – Saturday
  • 1 pm – 5 pm, Sunday
  • Closed on Monday

Sixth & Seventh Floors at Center in the Square

The uppermost floors of Center in the Square are home to Six and Sky Rooftop Grille, a stunning rooftop restaurant and cocktail bar with panoramic views of Roanoke’s downtown.

In this section…

Return to the table of contents at the top.

Six and Sky Rooftop Grille

The atmosphere at Six and Sky is elevated and refined. The outdoor patio features comfortable seating around a fire pit, a calming koi pond with waterfall, and decorative lighting dark. Most of the outdoor seating is limited to cocktail service, but there are a few high-top tables where you can enjoy full dinner service.

Several hightop tables on a rooftop with a view of downtown buildings and mountains in the distance
Six and Sky at Center in the Square in Roanoke, VA

This elevated dining experience is perfect for date night, girl’s night out, and professional networking, but we made it work with even our youngest children. We chose to sit outside at a high-top table, just holding our toddler in one of our laps while we took in the view.

Indoor seating is also available, with comfortable booths that are even more convenient for parents juggling little kids over dinner. The main menu is catered towards mature palettes, but our server kindly informed us that buttered noodles and chicken fingers with fries are unlisted options available for kids.

Ribeye steak on a bed of asparagus and mashed potatoes
Ribeye from Six and Sky at at Center in the Square in Roanoke, VA

A dinner reservation at Six and Sky provides a memorable conclusion to your day at Center in the Square, and we do highly recommend making a reservation. However, you do have a good chance of finding an available table as a walk-up, too, if you are willing to eat early.

Either way, make a point to at least stop by the highest level of Six and Sky while you’re visiting Center in the Square. Whether you plan to eat or not, you don’t want to miss the chance to check out the view or even snap a few photos with the city behind you. This is one of the best vantage points in the middle of downtown Roanoke!

Cost: Appetizers start at $10, while main menu items range from the signature Rooftop Burger for only $20 to a full Seafood Tower for over $100. Preview the menu online for details, and don’t forget to tip your server!

Hours:

  • 4 pm – 10 pm, Monday – Thursday
  • 4 pm – 11 pm on Friday
  • 2 pm – 11 pm on Saturday
  • 2 pm – 10 pm on Sunday

Learn More About Center in the Square

What do you think? Are you ready to plan your visit to Center in the Square in Roanoke, VA? With seven floors of family fun, this really is a must-do for families visiting the city.

Where to park for Center in the Square?

The most convenient place to park while visiting Center in the Square is the Center in the Square Garage, a paid parking garage right next to the building. Metered street parking is also available throughout downtown, but availability is often limited. For a more complete list of parking options, check out this parking map from Downtown Roanoke, Inc.

What ages are best for Center in the Square?

With so many different attractions packed into one building, Center in the Square really does offer something for every age. Based on our experiences…

  • Babies and toddlers are most likely to enjoy Kids Square Children’s Museum.
  • Ages 5 – 10 years old will also love the Children’s Museum, elements of the Science Museum, some games in the Roanoke Starcade, and different children’s productions from Mill Mountain Theatre.
  • Preteens and teens will find the most to do at the Science Museum and Roanoke Starcade. You might also consider Mill Mountain Theatre’s musical concerts, or dinner for special occasions at Six and Sky Rooftop Grille.
  • Adults can have a great time gaming in the Roanoke Pinball Museum and Roanoke Starcade, catching some of Mill Mountain Theatre’s mainline performances, or dining in elegance at Six and Sky.

Are there free things to do at Center in the Square?

The atrium aquariums and Centered Celebration art display on the first floor of Center in the Square are free for passing visitors to enjoy. The rooftop at Six and Sky Rooftop Grille is also open to the public, so you can walk around, enjoy the view and fresh air, and take some photos together without staying to eat or ordering a drink.

If you are exploring downtown Roanoke and need a convenient place to stop for clean restrooms, water fountains, air conditioning, and a little break, you should definitely have Center in the Square on your radar.

Would Center in the Square make a good field trip?

Absolutely! Organized field trips are available in partnership with multiple attractions, including the Kids Square Children’s Museum, Roanoke Starcade, Science Museum, and Mill Mountain Theatre. Students will be led through hands-on experiences, which can be designed and planned in collaboration with educators to focus on preferred topics.

Does Center in the Square host birthday parties?

Yes! Kids Square Children’s Museum offers party packages with pop-culture themes, decorations, and activities, along with access to all the engaging exhibits at the museum. The Level-Up Lounge can be rented individually or in a combination package with the Roanoke Starcade or Pinball Museum. The Science Museum of Western Virginia accepts birthday party reservations on Saturdays and Sundays, too.   

What food is available at Center in the Square?

The Candy Store on the first floor sells a variety of popular candy brands and locally made confections. Six and Sky Rooftop Grille on the top floor offers cocktail and dinner service.

However, Center in the Square is conveniently located in the heart of downtown Roanoke, putting many wonderful restaurants within easy walking distance! We suggest considering Scrambled for breakfast, The Hatch for lunch, or Jaybird Tavern for dinner.

Places to travel in the United States

Find even more family adventures all over the southeastern United States with Kidding Around Travel!

The Ultimate Guide to Taylors, SC

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Spending some time in Taylors, SC, and looking for things to do or places to eat? Taylors, SC has plenty to offer for your day trip. Before you head out to Taylors, check out our list below of things you should do, where you should eat, and parks you should visit.

Taylors, SC Guide: Table of Contents

Taylors, SC is more than just a suburb of Greenville; there are lots of things to do and places to eat! Choose a category to explore Taylors, SC.

Your Guide to Taylor, SC things to do, restaurants, and more
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Stunning Scenic Spots With No Hiking: An Upstate SC Driving Tour

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Do you want to enjoy beautiful views with no hiking at scenic overlooks near Greenville, SC? How about a driving tour of completely stunning overlooks, pull-offs, and scenic spots across Upstate South Carolina? If that sounds amazing, we thought so too! Here’s your guide to a no-hiking driving tour of gorgeous scenic places from KAG contributor, Liene.

Mountain views and scenic overlooks near Greenville, SC

Scenic Views Without the Hike

While my family loves a good hike (and there’s no shortage of them in the Upstate!), we sometimes look for stunning views without the effort of a long trek. Whether we’re hosting out-of-town guests who aren’t comfortable on the trail, traveling with a baby, or just keeping things low-key, we’ve found a dozen spots where you can pull up and enjoy a spectacular view with only a short walk. Visit one or two, or turn it into an epic driving tour for a scenic taste of the South Carolina Upcountry.

Wildcat Branch Falls

After breakfast at one of the many cute spots in Traveler’s Rest, head north to Cherokee Foothills Scenic Highway 11 and drive west. The first stop is Wildcat Wayside, an old rest stop for travelers on their way to Asheville.

With over a mile of trail that loops into the Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area, this trailhead is a popular spot. Be careful pulling in and out of the roadside parking area. However, you won’t have to go far to see the star attraction: a 30-foot waterfall visible from the road. The shallow pool at the base is a popular swimming hole on hot summer days! 

Address: 5500 Geer Hwy, Cleveland, SC

Waterfall at Wildcat Wayside

Bald Rock Heritage Preserve

Bald Rock Preserve was once a roadside pull-off, but in May 2025 it changed to a very short 0.4 mile hike. Please access through the new trail and not the old pull-off entrance! We’re keeping it on this list since the walk is easy, and we think the news are totally worth it. Bald Rock Heritage Preserve is 165 acres and home to several rare plants, as well as panoramic views stretching from Table Rock to downtown Greenville.

Address: 280 Persimmon Ridge Road, Cleveland, SC

Bald Rock near Greenville

Caesars Head State Park

Drive another 4.6 miles north on Highway 276 and you’ll reach the Caesars Head State Park Visitor Center. There is ample parking here, as well as restrooms, picnic tables, and a gift shop. Take the short, 0.1-mile trail to the overlook featuring a wonderful view of Table Rock and the reservoir. 

Address: 8155 Geer Highway, Cleveland, SC

Caesars Head State Park in the clouds

Grant Meadow Overlook

From Caesars Head, retrace your route back to Cherokee Foothills Scenic Highway 11 and continue west. Just under a mile after Aunt Sue’s Country Corner, you’ll see Grant Meadow Overlook on your right. This scenic pull-off is an Upstate Forever conservation easement that protects 57-acres.

Table Rock is the stunning focal point. Take a minute to read the historical marker that tells the story of the granite dome, or just soak in the view from the bench before continuing on to Table Rock State Park. 

Address: Grant Meadow Overlook, Pickens, SC
GPS Coordinates: 35.034126, -82.684248

Grant Meadow Overlook

Table Rock Overlook

Table Rock Mountain rises 3,124 feet above sea level and is visible for miles. But if you want to get up close without the strenuous 7+mile hike, just head to the Table Rock Viewpoint within Table Rock State Park. It’s one of the most stellar mountain overlooks near Greenville, SC.

To access the pull-off you’ll need a state park pass (or pay admission). The viewpoint is halfway between the Table Rock Nature Center and Gaines Lodge parking areas. If the park is full or you don’t have a park pass, head instead to the Table Rock State Park Visitor Center on Lake Oolenoy. Here, you’ll find restrooms and a gift shop, plus rocking chairs on a wide porch with a prime view of Table Rock.

Address for overlook: 182-346 Table Rock State Park Road, Pickens, SC
Address for Visitor Center: 158 E Ellison Lane, Pickens, SC

Table Rock

Sassafras Mountain

From Table Rock State Park, it’s another four miles or so to the intersection of Highway 11 and Moorefield Memorial Highway. Make a right and drive north 7.5 miles to Rocky Bottom, SC. Make another right on F. Van Clayton Memorial Highway (Sassafras Mountain Road) and take it all the way to the end to Sassafras Mountain Observation Tower. This is the highest point in South Carolina!

The distance between the parking lot and the tower is just over a tenth of a mile, but the short stroll is worth it. On a clear day, you’ll have 360-degree mountain views of North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia.

Address: 1391 F Van Clayton Memorial Highway, Sunset, SC

Sassafras Observation Tower

Jumping Off Rock

This next stop requires a bit of time and patience as it involves a long drive up a narrow gravel road. Once you’re back on Moorefield Memorial Highway, go north 0.9 miles to Horse Pasture Road. This road is generally open year-round, but closes in hazardous weather conditions. See SCDNR for updates. High clearance is recommended, but not required, for the 9.6-mile drive to the overlook.

On your way in, you’ll pass several Heritage Preserves and Wildlife Management Areas with multiple waterfall hiking trails and Foothills Trail trailheads.

At the top, look for a small pull-off with an obvious trail. From there, it’s only a couple hundred feet to the view. Jumping Off Rock is the first of several stops located in the Jocassee Gorges region in this driving tour that features views of Lake Jocassee. If you opt to skip it, you’ll get similar views from the Bad Creek Overlook.

Address: 448 Horse Pasture Rd, Sunset, SC

Jumping Off Rock

Long Shoals Wayside Park

Once back on Cherokee Foothills Scenic Highway, look for the intersection with Roy F. Jones Rd. After driving 1.4 miles west on Highway 11, you’ll see the entrance to Long Shoals Roadside Park. There are picnic tables located right next to the parking area, but this stop does require a short climb to reach Little Eastatoe Creek. While not as long as the walk to the Sassafras Mountain tower, it descends about 100 feet and is a bit steeper. 

Address: Scenic Hwy 11, Pickens, SC
GPS Coordinates: 34.949246, -82.851151

Long Shoals

Bad Creek Overlook

From Long Shoals Park, drive west on Highway 11 for almost 10 miles. Turn right on SC-130 N and continue for 10.1 miles. Bad Creek is the site of the largest hydroelectric station operated by Duke Power and includes the 7,500-acre Lake Jocassee, a 375-acre upper reservoir, an underground powerhouse, and a one-mile-long tunnel bored through the mountain bedrock connecting the reservoirs and powerhouse.

The site is open to the public year-round. However, visitors must abide by the Bad Creek visitor regulations posted at the electronic gate at the entrance to the site, which is at the turn off from SC-130 N onto Bad Creek Road.

Proceed carefully on Bad Creek Road for 3.6 miles until you come to the entrance to the parking lot for the Bad Creek Visitor Overlook. This overlook has more breathtaking views of Lake Jocassee with a backdrop of the mountains of the Jocassee Gorges. 

Address: Bad Creek Visitor Overlook, Bad Creek Road, Salem, SC
GPS Coordinates: 34.995363, -82.992124

Note: Just to the north is the North Carolina border and Whitewater Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in the east. We’ve chosen not to include it in this guide as the hike to the viewing platform is about 0.6 miles and involves stairs for the best view. It’s also a fee area. However, it’s close enough to be an option. The waterfall viewpoint is at the end of a paved 1/2 mile path without stairs! Read more about Whitewater Falls in our driving tour of stunning waterfalls!

Bad Creek Overlook

Wigington Overlook

Once back on Whitewater Road, drive south for 0.7 miles, then turn right and head west on Oscar Wigington Memorial Highway. This short connector between SC-107 and SC-130 offers a fantastic bird’s-eye-view of Bad Creek Reservoir and the Carolina foothills from the Wigington Overlook, 1.4 miles from Whitewater Road.

Address: Oscar Wigington Memorial Highway Scenic Overlook, State Rd S-37-413, Tamassee, SC

GPS Coordinates: 35.001087, -83.043677

Wigington Overlook

Sloan Bridge and Chattooga Pull-Offs and Picnic Areas

Continue west on Wigington Highway until you reach Highway 107, Falling Waters Scenic Byway. Just north of the intersection is the Sloan Bridge Picnic Area with restroom facilities and picnic tables. 2.3 miles south is Fish Hatchery Road, which leads to the Walhalla State Fish Hatchery, another picnic area, and a popular spot for fishing. 

Sloan Bridge address: Sloans Bridge Access, Tamassee, SC (GPS Coordinates: 35.003620, -83.054143)
Walhalla State Fish Hatchery address: 198 Fish Hatchery Road, Mountain Rest, SC

Sloan Bridge

Burrell’s Place Pull-Off

One mile south of Fish Hatchery Road is a memorial site for five service members who were killed when a B-25 Army Air Corps plane crashed into a mountaintop on March 10, 1943. At the Burrell’s Place Pull-Off, visitors can find a memorial marker with the names of the servicemen. 1/3 mile further is a wide spot in the road that has room for a couple of cars. There’s a view of Cantrell Mountain and the Upstate beyond.

GPS Coordinates: 34.964861, -83.078429  

Russell Farmstead (Chattooga Town)

After cruising the rest of Falling Waters Scenic Byway, you’ll reach Highway 28S. Make a right and continue towards the SC/GA border. In 7.5 miles, you’ll reach the pull-off for Chattooga Town, a spot listed in the National Register of Historic Places.

The Russell house was a busy Appalachian farmstead in the late 1800s and early 1900s and served as a stopover for travelers headed to North Carolina to escape the hot South Carolina summers. A fire destroyed the main house and three outbuildings in 1988, leaving only a chimney of the main house. The foundations are still visible, and an interpretive sign on the site details the layout of the farmstead.

Address: Mountain Rest, SC
GPS Coordinates: 34.909300, -83.172708

Chattooga River (Oconee County) Pull-Off

Retracing your route to Mountain Rest, SC, you’ll take Chattooga Ridge Road to Long Creek Highway. The next destination is where Highway 76 crosses the Chattooga. Just before the river is a 10-minute parking pull-off with room for about six cars and a walkway that leads to an overlook of the Chattooga River and the bridge. If you would prefer a closer look at the river, park at the US Forest Service Chattooga River Access site across the way. It will require a short walk.

Address: Highway 76 Chattooga River Access, Mountain Rest, SC
GPS Coordinates: 34.814151, -83.303892

The fastest way back to Greenville from the Chattooga River is through Clemson on Highway 123. Though if you’re looking to take the scenic route (or headed to our starting point in Traveler’s Rest), you’ll want to take Highway 11. We often detour through Pickens to stop for food or watch the sun set from Glassy Mountain. 

Pack that bag of gear and snacks, and hit the road with the Kidding Around Greenville guide to scenic viewpoints and pull-offs. Be sure to tag us in your photo posts to let us know which scenic pull-offs and overlooks near Greenville you enjoyed most!


Waterfalls to see with no hiking, NC

Love a good nature-filled driving tour?

Don’t miss this tour of Stunning Waterfalls With NO Hiking!

Get outdoors with your kids guide

Find lots more outdoor adventures in our Kidding Around Guide to the Outdoors.

Check out parks, biking trails, swimming holes, and more!

Summer Jobs for Teens: Greenville SC

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Are you looking for summer jobs for teens? Greenville, SC has dozens of options! We have tips for teens from a fellow teen about finding a summer job, plus a list of local businesses looking to hire teens for summer jobs in Greenville and the Upstate.

Summer jobs for teenagers near Greenville, South Carolina

Is your business hiring teens for summer 2026? Email Maria@kiddingaroundgreenville.com to be included on our list.

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Inside Greenville Martial Art Center’s Summer Camp: Structure, Confidence, and a Full-Immersion Experience

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For many Greenville families, summer camp is about keeping kids busy. At Greenville Martial Art Center (GMAC), it’s about something deeper.

GMAC’s Taekwondo-focused summer camp serves children ages 5 through rising 8th grade with a full-day program built around structure, character development, and the core tenets of martial arts. It’s led by a unified team of instructors and camp leadership who have built the program with intention — not just to fill summer days, but to shape confident, capable kids.

In speaking with the GMAC team, one thing became clear: structure here isn’t accidental. It’s foundational.

Our days are boisterous, diverse, and structured,” the GMAC team shared. “Kids thrive when they know what to expect.”

A Schedule Built for Working Families

The camp runs from 7:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., making it a practical option for working parents across the Upstate. Each day blends Taekwondo instruction with themed activities, STEM projects, outdoor rotations, weekly field trips, and Friday swimming.

Morning drop-off begins at 7:00 a.m., with a group meeting at 8:15 that sets the tone for the day — reinforcing both expectations and encouragement before activities begin.

Lunch is parent-packed and non-microwavable, since many meals happen at parks. Water is provided throughout the day to keep things simple and accessible for families.

More Than Kicks and Punches

GMAC Belt Testing

While Taekwondo provides the structure, GMAC’s mission extends far beyond physical training. The program is grounded in six core tenets: courtesy, integrity, perseverance, self-control, indomitable spirit, and loyalty. These values aren’t decorative words on a wall — they are discussed, modeled, and reinforced daily.

It’s not just about kicks and punches,” the instructors explained. “It’s about how kids carry themselves, how they treat others, and how they push through challenges.

Mid-summer, campers have the opportunity to participate in a rank test — typically targeted for late June — offering a concrete milestone that reflects both their effort and the steady guidance they receive throughout the season.

Why Consistency Matters

GMAC requires a minimum two-week registration across its 11-week summer schedule (non-consecutive weeks are allowed). That policy reflects the program’s belief that meaningful growth takes time.

Skill progression and readiness for rank testing require commitment,” camp leadership noted. “When kids attend consistently, you see their confidence grow.

Rather than offering a drop-in experience, GMAC emphasizes repetition, routine, and steady progress — all key components in both martial arts and childhood development.

An Inclusive Environment

The camp’s structured, routine-driven approach has proven especially effective for neurodiverse learners. Clear expectations and predictable schedules create an environment where many campers with ADHD and autism have found success.

Structure and predictability make a big difference,” the team at GMAC shared. “We’ve had many neurodiverse kids do incredibly well here.

Staff ratios average around 1:10–1:12, and families who require one-on-one support for their child are welcome to provide an aide.

Glow in the dark party, Greenville Martial Arts GMAC

Rooted in the Greenville Community

GMAC’s presence extends beyond summer programming. Throughout the year, the team hosts trunk-or-treat events, break-a-thons supporting nonprofits such as the Jed Foundation, cultural holiday celebrations, and family picnics. They are also exploring future fundraising efforts focused on child and mental health support — reflecting a broader commitment to community care.

Families often note the relational nature of the experience. Staff members know campers by name, and that personal investment shows in the way children engage and grow within the program.

Connection matters,” the GMAC team shared. “When kids feel known, they feel more confident showing up as themselves.

What to Know Before Enrolling

No prior martial arts experience is required. Beginners are welcomed at every level. Camp uniforms are provided, worn during the week, and sent home on Fridays. Electronics and personal toys are not permitted, helping maintain focus and group engagement throughout the day.

Parents should plan to send a labeled change of clothes, closed-toe shoes, a jacket, and a non-microwavable lunch. A water bottle is optional, as water is provided daily.

Early registration is open through March 31. Pricing is $214 per week for a first child and $204 per week for a second and third child. Registration is available online.

Progress takes commitment — from the child and the family.
— Greenville Martial Art Center

The Ultimate Guide for Families With Preschoolers in Greenville, SC

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Do you have a preschooler? It is a full-time job to keep them entertained and making sure they are getting the best education. This guide offers a list of things to do with a preschooler in Greenville, SC and the Upstate, plus classes, preschools, and resources for your family. Your preschooler will love these activities and you will love making memories.

Preschool Family Guide to Greenville, SC

Summer Camps for Preschoolers

A great preschool summer camp experience is on this list.

The Greenville area offers a lot of summer camp options and it can be difficult to sort through them to find camps that are open to preschoolers. So, we made this list of Preschool Summer Camps because there are some really fun options for the 4 and under crowd when it comes to summer camps! Don’t miss them.


Things to With Preschoolers Indoors Near Greenville

Start with our big guide of 25+ Indoor Things to do with Your Preschooler in Greenville, SC. Whether you are trying to stay dry or keep cool in the a/c, this list offers you choices of things to do with preschoolers indoors.

  • Indoor Activities for preschoolers in Spartanburg, SC: We haven’t forgotten about our neighbors! We have a list for indoor activities for preschoolers in Spartanburg.
  • Tot Times: Tot times are a designated time reserved for younger children. Places such as museums, bounce house, gyms, and more offer tot times.
  • Story Times in the Upstate: Storytimes are an important part of cultivating a love of reading. These events are usually free and make reading fun!
  • Children’s Museum of the Upstate: Greenville is home to the Children’s Museum of the Upstate. It is one of the largest museums and one of the first to be Smithsonian affiliated. The exhibits are hands-on, and they offer special educational programs.
  • Tell-Me-A-Story Theatre and Once Upon an Orchestra at SCCT: Not only does SCCT have plenty of workshops, classes, and other fun things to do for preschoolers, they have monthly (during the school year) FREE programming your preschooler would love, that introduce music and theatre in fun bite size bits.
  • 10 Places in Greenville Where Preschoolers Can Make Art : Preschoolers are creative and love to express themselves. Nurture your preschoolers artistic skills at these places that hold space for preschoolers to create art.

Classes and Activities for Preschoolers

From art to rock climbing, there are opportunities for your preschooler to take a class in Greenville. Some are year-round, and some are seasonal, but they all offer enriching experiences.

The Library System!

The Greenville County Library and the Spartanburg County Public Library systems offer an abundance of FREE programming for preschools all week long.

  • Little Learners Club: Print at home or pick up from the library a Little Learns Club log and complete some of Palmetto Basics Read and Discuss activities to get your preschooler Kindergarten-ready, while earning fun pins for each task.
  • Lollipops Concert Series: These music-based concerts feature the South Carolina Children’s Theatre, along with the Greenville Symphony Orchestra, and they are FREE and perfect for preschoolers. They are typically held at two library locations each month from September through April. Here is the current schedule.
  • Music Sandwiched In: The Spartanburg main library branch offers Music Sandwiched In, a free concert series with The Spartanburg Philharmonic, a couple of times per month on Wednesdays.

Things to Do Outdoors With Preschoolers

  • Greenville Zoo: Are you visiting the Greenville Zoo? Read this article to ensure you make the most out of your visit.
  • Zoo Tots: Zoo Tots for preschoolers is an educational and fun. It is geared towards preschoolers and offers sensory play while also meeting a zoo animal!
  • Hiking with Preschoolers: There are a lot of excellent hiking trails near Greenville, SC, but if you’re hiking with young kids, the trails on this list would be a great place to start.
  • Trains: Does your preschooler love trains? Greenville, SC has spots to watch trains, trains to ride, and train-themed spots to play.
  • Playgrounds for Preschoolers near Greenville: These playgrounds near Greenville are particularly awesome for preschool kids with features perfect for younger kids.
  • Playgrounds: Not all playgrounds are built the same. We have listed 6 of the best park playgrounds in Greenville, SC.
  • Downtown Greenville’s Runway Park: A unique park with airplanes and runways. Check out this Greenville mom’s review of Runway Park.
  • Splashpads near Greenville: During the warmer months, there are several splashpads that are FREE and your preschooler will absolutely love. Just make sure to bring sunscreen and a towel, and you’ll have a couple of hours of fun!
  • Knee-High Naturalist: This program at Conestee Nature Preserve meets monthly outdoors throughout the school year, allowing preschoolers to learn a little about nature (each month is themed!)
  • The Nature Playscape at Conestee Nature Preserve: One of the newest, amazing playspaces in Greenville for kids, this playscape features a flowing water feature your preschooler can stomp around in looking for snails and frogs, along with places to climb, slide, and pretend you’re a giant bird.

Find the Perfect Preschool or Kindergarten

Ultimate Guide to Preschools: Are you looking for a preschool in Greenville or anywhere in the Upstate? Sort Upstate preschools by programs, location, and hours. You may also find our KABOOM Award-winning preschools in Greenville, SC helpful, voted on by our readers!

Preschools and Daycare: Greenville, SC

Private Schools: Is it time for kindergarten? If you’re looking for the best private school K5 or kindergarten option, this list will help you sift through all the options with location filters.

Guide to private schools in Greenville, SC and Spartanburg, SC

What do you and your preschooler like to do in the upstate? Tell us below in the comments.

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