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Archive for the ‘Guides’ Category

Winter Guide to Spartanburg, SC

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Are you looking for things to do this winter in Spartanburg, SC? Our Winter Guide is full of our best winter content with ideas about things to do this winter, places to go, winter travel, shopping and more! Enjoy the Upstate this winter!

Spartanburg Winter guide

Winter Treats

Wintertime is perfect for a steaming cup of something warm and delicious. Check out these places our readers recommend for hot chocolate and a great cup of coffee in Spartanburg.

Dine Outdoors This Winter

Want to eat outdoors? These Spartanburg restaurants have heated outdoor patios and dining spaces. You can enjoy a meal outside even if it’s a bit chilly out there.

Get Outdoors This Winter in Spartanburg

Where to Hike This Winter Near Spartanburg, SC

Get outdoors and hike this winter! Here’s a list of parks and trails in and near Spartanburg that are perfect for wintertime hikes.

Ski and Snow Tube Near Upstate, SC

While there might not be snow on the ground here in Spartanburg, nearby there are several places where you can enjoy winter on the snowy slopes for tubing and skiing. See Places to Ski and Snow Tube Near Spartanburg and Upstate SC.

Waterfall Driving Tour

Hunt out some frozen waterfalls in nearby Western North Carolina. Make a day of it with this Waterfall Driving Tour of WNC. See all these waterfalls without any hiking. This tour is a Kidding Around staff and reader favorite day trip adventure.

Winter Getaways

Winter cabin rentals near Greenville, South Carolina

Book one of these cozy mountain vacation rentals. Bring some hot cocoa and a good book and maybe you’ll even get some snow. With all the amenities at these rentals, like fireplaces, pool tables, and hot tubs, we don’t think you’ll mind getting snowed in!

Indoor Things to Do This Winter Near Spartanburg

Indoor Guide of Spartanburg, SC Things to Do

Here’s our gigantic list of indoor things to do in Spartanburg, SC. You’ll find activities for families with kids of all ages including trampoline parks, pottery studios, museums, libraries and so much more!

Indoor Things to Do with Your Preschooler

Keep the little kids busy with these indoor things to do.

Winter Consignment Sales

Fill up the kids’ closet this year for less with these winter consignment sales.

What is your favorite winter activity to do in Spartanburg, SC?

A Travel Guide to Tennessee: Family-Friendly Vacations

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Looking to vacation in Tennessee? The beautiful backdrop of the Appalachians, southern charm, and unique vacation destinations make it an excellent choice for a family-friendly vacation. We’ve visited several cities throughout the state and collected dozens of reviews to help you plan your next trip. You’ll find unique places to lodge, dining options, adventure recommendations, and more for cities like Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg, Sevierville, and Chattanooga, Tennessee.

Travel Guide to Tennessee, with information for family friendly vacations.

Where Would You Like to Explore?


A Family-Friendly Vacation to Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

If you have never been to Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, you are in for a treat! The area has grown rapidly over the last 50 years and includes some out-of-this-world attractions, is near the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and has a lot of great places to lodge.

Things to Do in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

Enjoy snow tubing all year round at Indoor Snow Tubing in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee
See the magical Christmas lights at Winterfest, which starts in November and ends in February!
During Winterfest, you can enjoy the epic lights on the Wonder of Light Walking Trail
The Island at Pigeon Forge is a great one-stop for an amazing day of shopping, fun attractions, and food.
Ever seen the world from upside down? You can at Wonderworks in Pigeon Forge!
Soar over America in an immersive theatre at Skyfly at The Island at Pigeon Forge
Cruise around the Smoky Mountains with Smoky Mountain Pink Jeep.
The Titanic Museum is a truly immersive experience in a replica of the ship itself, right off the Boulevard!

Wildwood Grove at Dollywood

Dollywood

Homeschooling? These Homeschool days at Dollywood will save you some money on the theme park.
You’ll find a woodland-themed waterpark at Splash Country at Dollywood
Christmas at Dollywood is one of the most magical times of the year, with lights, crafters, and more!
Wildwood Grove at Dollywood is full of whimsy and rides.

Lodging in Pigeon Forge

The Inn on the River is a prime location on the river and is a great family-friendly place to stay.
If you are looking for an all-out resort, Margaritaville RV Resort and Lodge is the place!


Visit The Charming Mountain Town of Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Gatlinburg is one of the most popular travel destinations to take a vacation in Tennessee. With stunning mountain views and dozens of attractions that are unquestionably unique to the town, you could spend an entire weekend with a packed itinerary. There is an aquarium, mountain coasters, and even a sky-high bridge you have to see to believe!

Winter version of Galtlinburg, Pigeon Forge silo.

Our KA Ultimate Guide to Gatlinburg, Tennessee, with reviews, lodging information, and places to eat.

Things to Do in Gatlinburg, Tennessee

See ocean creatures and walk under sharks at Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies.
Anakeesta is a sky-high destination that offers fantastic views, dining, and special attractions.
The Mirrormaze is a fun attraction for families to try and navigate the maze.
Get rocked while experiencing the 5D Theatre in downtown Gatlinburg!
Take the ski lift to the Skybridge, and you’re in for a real thrill as you walk the suspension bridge.
Great Smoky Mountain National Park is an American treasure, you have to visit it at least once.
Elkmont Ghost Town is a ghost town that your family can explore! How neat!

Places to Stay Near Gatlinburg, TN

Enjoy a family-friendly stay at the Greystone Lodge, which has an excellent location!
The Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort has an indoor waterpark that the kids can play in.
If you are looking for luxury camping, Camp LeConte is a great option in Gatlinburg!
Smoky Hollow Outdoor Resort has covered wagons you can camp in!
This 17 Room Gaming Mansion is a wonderful place to stay for larger groups!


Spend the Weekend in Sevierville, Tennessee

Do not overlook Sevierville while planning your vacation to Tennessee! Situated right next door to Pigeon Forge in Sevierville, Tennessee. If you didn’t know, Sevierville is the birthplace of America’s greatest gift, Dolly Parton! There are also a lot of fun things to do, and one of the most epic hotels in the area (it has an indoor and outdoor waterpark!)

These 23+ Special Things to Do in Sevierville, Tennesse will make for a memorable vacation.

Sevierville TN

Activities and Things to Do in Sevierville, Tennessee

You have to make a pit stop at Buc-ee’s Sevierville, where you will find everything you need and more!
There are coasters, chair lifts, cowboy demonstrations, and more at Skyland Ranch.
Soaky Mountain Water Park is THE BEST waterpark, with some epic slides to try out.

Glamping tent at the Ridge Outdoor Resort

Lodging in Sevierville, Tennessee

The Ridge Outdoor Resort in Sevierville offers glamping, RV camping, and amenities.
Wilderness at the Smokies is wonderful for families, with multiple waterparks and cozy hotel rooms.


Explore the Outdoors in Chattanooga, Tennessee

In the Southeastern part of Tennessee near the Georgia line, you will find an amazing city that has perfectly balanced city life with the outdoors, Chattanooga, Tennessee! The downtown area is bustling with art, interesting things to do, and exceptional dining. Plus, there is an aquarium, a zoo, a famous train hotel, and Rock City is just down the road.

The Ultimate Guide to Chattanooga, Tennessee.

Check out our KA Ulitmate Guide to Chattanooga, Tennessee for ideas on places to stay, things to do, and our honest reviews of popular attractions!

Meercats at Chattanooga Zoo in Tennessee.

Meercats at the Tennessee Zoo

The view from Lookout Mountain in Tennessee.

Overlook at Lookout Mountain

Family-Friendly Things to Do in Chattanooga, TN

The iconic Rock City is just a few minutes drive from Downtown Chattanooga!
Big Soddy Creek Gulf Trail has a mesmerizing swimming hole that is crystal clear.
The Tennessee Aquarium has two buildings full of ocean creatures to visit.
You can feed giraffes and red pandas at the Chattanooga Zoo!

The Read House hotel in Chattanooga, Tennessee.

Where to Stay Near Chattanooga, Tennesse

The Read House Hotel is iconic and even has ghost stories to learn about.


More Tennessee Travel


Places to travel in the United States

Our Travel Page will give you tons of ideas for day trips, weekend getaways, or family vacations to destinations throughout the Southeast.

Winter Guide to Greenville, SC: Things to Do

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Are you looking for things to do this winter with your kids in Greenville? You can find all the information that you need and more here on Kidding Around Greenville. We have free things to do from hikes to museums, winter markets, places to hit the slopes, things to do indoors and so much more!

Caesars Head State Park

Free and Inexpensive Things to Do in Greenville in the Winter

We love free things to do in Greenville and we know our readers do, too! Here’s a list of things to do in Greenville that won’t cost a dime. And, we’ve included a section of some low-cost things to do. These are things that will cost a family of 4 $20 or less to do.

Play Outdoors this Winter in Greenville

Ice on Main

Downtown Greenville’s outdoor ice skating rink, Ice on Main is open through January 15th, 2024. Rent some skates and enjoy this time-honored winter activity in beautiful Downtown Greenville, SC.

Here’s a fun video of our visit to Ice on Main!

Winter Hikes near Greenville

Winter is a great time to go for a hike near Greenville! Avoid the unpleasant heat and humidity of a summer hike, and discover the views hiding behind the leaves on the trees now that they’ve fallen to the ground.

Skate on the Big Ice

Ever wonder what it is like to ice skate on the same rink as professional hockey players? This is your chance! On select dates throughout December, you can lace up your ice skate and skate on the rink at Bon Secour Wellness Arena! They also have Skate Roll and Stroll ADA sessions available twice in December.

Ski and Snow Tube Near Greenville

While there might not be snow on the ground here in Greenville, nearby there are several places where you can enjoy winter on the snowy slopes for tubing and skiing.

See Places to Ski and Snow Tube Near Greenville.

Waterfall Driving Tour

Hunt out some frozen waterfalls in nearby Western North Carolina. Make a day of it with this Waterfall Driving Tour of WNC. See all these waterfalls without any hiking. This tour is a Kidding Around staff and reader favorite day trip adventure.

WNC waterfall driving tour

Visit a Park with a Sunny Playground

Sunny parks are ideal for winter fun and helping burn off energy. Here’s a list of Greenville’s Sunny Parks. They’re bright and sunny, so they’re great when the weather is a little cool.

Warm Up With Hot Cocoa This Winter

Heated Outdoor Dining in the Upstate

Want to go out for a meal but sit outdoors? These restaurants have heated patio spaces for outdoor dining no matter the temperature.

Shop Local in Greenville This Winter

Toasty Farmer- Winter Farmer’s Market

It may be winter, but there are still lots of fresh veggies, meat, dairy products, and more available in the update. Visit the Toast Farmer and indoor farmer’s market for your winter supply of local foods straight from the farmer.

Winter Consignment Sales

Wintertime consignment sales are your chance to prep your child’s closet for warmer weather. Here’s a list of Greenville area consignment sales to put on your calendar.

Winter Getaways

Book one of these cozy mountain vacation rentals. Bring some hot cocoa, and a good book, and maybe you’ll even get some snow. With all the amenities at these rentals, like fireplaces, pool tables, and hot tubs, we don’t think you’ll mind getting snowed in!

Things to do Indoors this Winter in Greenville

Guide to things to do indoors near Greenville, South Carolina

Indoor Guide of Things to Do in Greenville

If you’re looking for something to do indoors in Greenville, you’ve just hit the jackpot. Here’s our giant list of things to do indoors in Greenville. No matter the weather, these are great options.

Indoor Things to Do with Preschoolers in Greenville

There are a lot of things to do indoors, but sometimes when you have a little one in tow, choosing an appropriate activity can be a little challenging. Here’s a list of things to do indoors in Greenville for families with preschool-aged kids.

Tot Times in Greenville

Looking for special times at your favorite venues just for little ones to roam? We’ve got you covered. Here’s a round-up of local tot time programs including local gyms, trampoline parks, art studios, and more!

Family Friendly Gyms

One place to hide away from the rain or cold is a great gym. The gyms in this list are reader-recommended for being family friendly with features like child care, parent and child classes, pools, parent’s night out, and more.

What is your favorite thing to do during the winter in Greenville?

Live Nativities to Visit Near Greenville, SC

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Searching for “live nativity near me”? We’ve pulled together a list of nearby live nativity events to visit this season near Greenville, SC. However you choose to experience the live nativity, we hope you have fun!  And if you know of any live nativities not on this list, please let us know with a comment below.

live nativities
Live nativity at Famoda Farm

North Anderson Baptist Church (November 30 – December 2, 2023, 6:30-8:30 pm nightly)
This is a drive-through live nativity at North Anderson Baptist Church. It’s free to go. Address is 2308 North Main Street, Anderson.

Christmas at the LibraryBilly Graham Library (December 1st-23rd, 2023)
Live nativity hours are Monday through Thursday 5 pm to 9 pm and Friday through Saturday 5 pm to 10 pm. Reservations are required to attend. The live nativity and story time are both free. Carriage rides are available for a fee ($6 for children and $12 for adults). Christmas dinner is available on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays in December. Reservations for dinner are recommended.

St. James Live Drive-thru Nativity (December 2, 2023, 6:30-8 pm)
View the manger scene complete with animals from your car. St. James UMC, 213 N. Lanford Road, Spartanburg, SC. The nativity will be in the front of the church, off Savoy Street.

Live Nativity at Holly Springs Baptist Church (December 3, 2023 at 5 pm)
The children’s live nativity service starts at 5 pm with free hot dogs, hot chocolate and a petting zoo and the program begins at 6 pm.

Live nativity event at Redeemer Lutheran Church
Redeemer Lutheran Church Live Nativity (2019)

Connie Maxwell Christmas in Greenwood (December 7, 8, and 9, 2023 from 6-8:30 pm)
Live nativity, horse-drawn wagon, complimentary hot chocolate, and Christmas lights. A suggested donation of $5/car or $10/van or bus.

Walk Through Bethlehem Cold Spring Mennonite Church (December 8th – 10th, 2023 & December 15th – 17th, 2023)
This live nativity has guests walk through Bethlehem, meet with biblical characters, enjoy creative displays, see live animals, and enjoy cookies and hot chocolate. The event is at 226 Cold Spring Church Road, Abbeville, SC.

A Walk Through Bethlehem (December 8-10, 2023, 6-9 pm)
Walk the streets by a guided tour to see Mary and Joseph, Elizabeth, angels and Roman Soldiers before entering the busy bustling town of Bethlehem. This year, enjoy local vendors, food trucks, and a live petting zoo. The event is free and takes place at Una First Free Will Baptist Church, 2130 Caldwell Road, Una, SC.

Bethlehem Walk at Calvary Baptist Church in Liberty (December 9, 2023 from 5-7 pm)
This is the first year this church is having the Bethlehem Walk, which will include talking with the shepherds, listening to Scripture at the synagogue, crafts at the inn, and lots more.

Happy Hooves’ Christmas at the Barn (December 10, 2023 2-5 pm)
This fundraiser at Eden Farms in Marietta benefits the Happy Hooves Therapeutic Equestrian Center. For $10 per person online ($15 at the door), guests can enjoy activities like “reindeer” horse and pony rides, a visit with Santa, a nativity scene and Christmas music, arts and crafts, a “peeplechase” playground for kids, a candy cane garden, and much more. Lunch, baked goods, and gifts will also be for sale.

Live Nativity at Faith Temple/Destination Church (December 12, 2023 at 6 pm)
Enjoy a live nativity and refreshments at Faith Temple and Destination Church at 5080 Sandy Flat Road, Taylors, SC.

Pickens View Wesleyan Church (December 15, 16, and 17, 2023 from 6-9 pm)
This walk-through event will have live animals (including camels), cookies, hot chocolate, and more as you walk through the streets of Bethlehem.

[CANCELLED] Walk to Bethlehem at Simpsonville United Methodist Church
Walk to Bethlehem at Simpsonville UMC, 215 SE Main St, Simpsonville.

Redeemer Church in Greer (December 16th & 17th, 2023 from 6-8 pm)
Join Redeemer Lutheran Church for their annual live nativity.

Experience the Stable of Bethlehem at Famoda Farm (December 21-23, 2023 at 6, 7, and 8 pm)
Walk amongst the animals and the stable of Bethlehem and watch Joseph and Mary process to the stable from a large barn. Indoor seating is available but this event can be crowded so people will also be able to stand outside and watch. Park is $10/car and $25/vans. Hot chocolate will be sold on site.

7 Holiday Light Driving Tours: Upstate, SC

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Do you want to go for a Christmas light drive around the Upstate and see all the best (and free!) home displays? Have you seen long lists of Christmas light displays? Are you overwhelmed by the holidays this year? We’ve got seven driving routes for 2023 to help you enjoy the season without a lot of stress since we already did the work for you!

Load the family in the car and follow these routes for a super simple yet super special night (or nights) of enjoying Christmas lights together. A massive, massive thank you to Kidding Around reader Jason Hurdich for helping us check homes on our routes. This is an enormous job and we are so grateful.

Disclaimer: Kidding Around is not responsible for property damage, neighborhood safety, or any possible injuries of any kind that may happen while driving, stopping, and viewing holiday lights and decorations. Drivers and property owners maintain all responsibility for general safety, operating a vehicle safely, light-viewing enjoyment, and holiday cheer. Drive slowly, be respectful, share holiday magic, and don’t be a Scrooge.

Submissions are closed for 2023 but if you want to be included in the 2024 list, you can come back and fill out our Holiday Light Display form and be sure to include a photo of your display.

Christmas Lights Contest in Greenville, SC

Which house is the best?
VOTE HERE!

The Kidding Around Greenville Christmas Lights Contest

The Kidding Around Upstate, SC Christmas Lights Driving Routes

Bonus! More lights! Check out our Christmas Lights Driving Tours in Columbia, SC!

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How you can help: Food Bank Wish Lists, Greenville, SC

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Are you looking for ways you can help families in need in the Greenville area? We’ve identified several food bank needs in Greenville, SC and asked for wish lists of their most needed items. We hope this guide helps you help others. 

Food bank needs in Greenville, SC
Volunteering in Greenville

If you are looking for more ways to help, check out the guide to year-round Volunteer Opportunities In The Upstate for families

Whether it’s the holidays or not, times can get tough for families. And when you don’t know where your next meal is coming from, your level of anxiety can skyrocket… especially if you have a family to feed. Over 62,000 people in Greenville County have that very stressful problem on their minds day in and day out.

But you can help. There are several food banks in the area that help families who need it most but are sometimes forgotten. Below is a “wish list” of certain items that are needed right now and where you can drop them off. Let’s cross off hunger from the list of stressors that some families are worried about.

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Free Things to Do This Christmas: Greenville, SC

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Looking for some free things to do this Christmas? Greenville, SC is a wonderful place for free holiday fun! We’ve rounded up top picks that are both friendly to your wallet and fun for your family during your holiday break. Add a few to your calendar to get you out of the house and away from the shopping frenzy.

Free Things to Do Greenville, SC at Christmas
Festival of Trees | Hyatt Regency Greenville

For even more holiday fun, don’t miss the Ultimate Holiday Guide to Greenville, SC. It’s packed full of things to do, gift ideas, events, and more!

Free Things to Do: Christmas in Greenville, SC

The St Francis Festival Of Trees
This FREE event is hosted by The St. Francis Foundation is with us again. Your family can stroll through one of two downtown locations to admire the decorated Christmas trees.
November 17th – December 25th, 2023

  • Hyatt Regency Greenville, 220 N Main Street Greenville, SC 29601
  • Courtyard Marriot Downtown, 50 West Broad Street Greenville, SC 29601
Festival in Trees in Downtown Greenville, South Carolina
Festival of Trees | Hyatt Regency Greenville

Santa At Cabela’s Winter Wonderland
November 4th, 2023 through December 24, 2023
Head over to Greenville to visit Santa at Cabela’s! You can get your photo taken with Santa for free and kids can enjoy making a different craft every week leading up to Christmas. In Santa’s, Winter Wonderland kids can also write a letter to Santa for free!

Holiday Hop in Travelers Rest, SC (November 25th, 2023)
Tree Lighting, Christmas kids craft station, stories with Mrs. Claus, Free professional photos with Santa (available for download after the event) all on Main Street in Travelers Rest, SC.

Sheep Trail by Messy Church Aldersgate UMC (December 8-29, 2023): Find sheep downtown using the trail card and write their unique names while exploring new shops & stores!

Ride the Trolley and Attend the FREE Holiday Happening Events in Downtown Greenville: Free events include the Christmas parade, tree lighting, free trolley rides, postcard displays, window displays, and the Festival of Trees.

Drop off letters to Santa at these Santa Mail Drop-off Locations: Make sure your letter to Santa arrives on time.

Lake Lure Flowering Bridge: This is a short day trip from Greenville but totally worth it. The Flowering Bridge in Lake Lure, NC is free and during Christmas, they light it up! See our story on the cool bridge, which also includes things to do in the Chimney Rock Village just down the street (I’d recommend getting hot chocolate).


Holiday Free Parking

The City of Greenville will be having FREE parking on December 16th and 17th, 2023. Garages include:

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

Parking will be FREE for all city-owned garages December 23rd – 25th, 2023, and January 1st, 2024.


More Holiday Fun With Kidding Around Greenville

Christmas Parades around the Upstate
While many of these parades are happening before Christmas break begins, your time is still well-spent browsing the list and making at least one other holiday parade a key feature of your December.

The 2023 Holiday Light Tour
Kidding Around has created a map with suggested driving routes to make this socially distant tradition easy! Load the family in the car and follow these routes for a super simple, yet super special, night (or nights) of enjoying Holiday lights together.

Personal Home Light Shows and Drive-thru Professional Displays around the Upstate
Kidding Around has put together a handy-dandy list of homes and businesses in the upstate that allow for drive-by holiday lights at a masterful level. While many of the professional displays cost money, there are lots of free opportunities as well. Nothing beats free and warm inside your car during December. You can check the list by scrolling down to “Home Synchronized Light Shows.”

Live Nativities around the Upstate
We have also assembled all the MVPs hosting Live Nativities this year. The live animals and actors are always entertaining and slightly unpredictable—just a great tradition for your family to begin all around.


Dig Into a New Story at Locally-Owned Bookstores: Greenville, SC

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Are you searching for locally-owned bookstores in Greenville, SC? Locally-owned bookstores are a great place to head when you’d like to add to your home library or shop for great gifts. These stores often offer a personal touch with staff recommendations, shelves full of specially chosen titles, and an opportunity to discover something brand new to you.

Don’t miss the unique magic and quality customer service of these independent bookstores of the upstate.

This article includes:
Locally-owned bookstores in Greenville, SC
Locally-owned bookstores in Spartanburg, SC
Locally owned bookstores across the Upstate
Bonus: Used Bookstores in Greenville, SC

M Judson Booksellers Greenville
M Judson Booksellers
Places to shop in Greenville, South Carolina for gifts

Looking for more places to shop local? Don’t miss our Shop Local Guide to Greenville.

Would you like to attend a local storytime? Here’s our list of Local Story Time Events Near Greenville, SC.

Storytime for Kids in Greenville SC

Local Bookstores in Greenville, SC

M Judson Booksellers

M Judson’s is a cultural hub of Downtown Greenville. It has an entire room dedicated to children’s books. The Camilla Kitchen is an in-house cafe that makes pastries and homemade apple butter. The book store hosts events like author book signings, book clubs, and Teacher Happy Hour.

130 South Main Street, Greenville, SC 29601
864.603.2412

Fiction Addiction

Fiction Addiction has a strong history of bringing authors to Greenville. The inventory includes books for all ages and signed editions from local authors. As the oldest independent bookstore in Greenville, their goal is to “help you find your perfect read, for this moment in time.”

1175 Woods Crossing Road #2, Greenville, SC 29607
864.675.0540

Angels Bookshoppe

Owned by two passionate book collectors, Angel’s Bookshoppe caters to homeschool curriculum and book lovers of all ages. Book collectors will be sure to find rare and unique books to add to their collections. They are due for an expansion, and will soon host events and sell vinyl.

2327-1 North Pleasantburg Drive, Greenville, SC 29609
864.551.1533

Learning Cycle

Known as Greenville’s Homeschool Store, Learning Cycle will take your requests and order what you need. They do consignment and offer curriculum, books, games, manipulatives, and more!

11 Barkingham Lane, Greenville, SC 29607
864.288.5219

As The Page Turns

Located in the middle of the charming downtown of Travelers Rest, As The Page Turns offers used children’s books, fiction, and nonfiction. Amy, the owner, takes pride in customer-oriented service. They will get to know you by name, and what you like to read.

32 South Main Street, Travelers Rest, SC 29690
864.834.8100

Hubcity Bookshop Spartanburg

Locally-Owned Bookstores in Spartanburg, SC

Hub City Bookshop and Press

Alongside the Little River Coffee Bar, the Hub City Bookshop creates a cultural hub, just like its name suggests.

Masonic Temple, 186 W Main St, Spartanburg, SC 29306
864.577.9349

Locally-Owned Bookstores in the Upstate

Candy & Chronicles

Combining books and candy, you’ll find Candy & Chronicles on Main Street in Fountain Inn. They are the newest locally-owned bookshop to the Upstate, with a wide variety of books and toys, local gifts, and candy, including themed candy to go along with your books!

Poor Richard’s Booksellers

Located in Easley, Poor Richard’s has been serving the area since 1987. In a historic building that houses the county’s first library. They carry Southern Fiction, fiction, nonfiction, children’s books, and puzzles.

107 West Main Street, Easley, SC 29640
864.859.0687

Recycled Reader

Recycled Reader is a home-based bookstore right across from the Happy Cow Creamery in Pelzer. They carry homeschool curriculum, bestsellers, games and puzzles, foreign languages and workbooks. Call ahead to make sure they’re open before making a visit.

321 McKelvey Road, Pelzer, SC 29669
864.243.4198

McDowell’s Emporium

As the last independent bookstore in Anderson, SC, McDowell’s Emporium takes pride in the well-organized clean store. The entire inventory is recorded in a database for easy access.

104 Oak Drive, Anderson, SC 29625
864.231.8896

Have you visited any of the bookstores above? Comment below and tell us about your experience.

BONUS: Used Bookstores in Greenville, SC

Ok, the two used bookstores we listed below don’t really fit with the “locally-owned” category, and they definitely have more of a big box feel. But, they are a great spot in Greenville to go for books on a budget or to sell some of the books you are ready to part with.

Mr. K’s Used Books, Music, & More

Buy and sell used books, movies, music, and lots more at Mr. K’s. You’ll find graphic novels, video games, and collectibles in addition to lots and lots of books.

101 Verdae Boulevard #320
864.286.3000.

2nd & Charles

Rows and rows of books for all ages is what you’ll find at 2nd & Charles. With a huge children’s section, and low prices, this is a popular book store for families. You’ll also find a wide selection of fiction and non-fiction for adults, music, movies, comic books, and even vinyl. Don’t forget to check the “free” bin outside the front door where you can pick up books people no longer want for free.

2465 Laurens Road, Greenville
864.281.1301

What are your favorite book shops in Greenville, SC?

You Are Invited to The Second Annual Biggest Birthday Party Bash in Greenville

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SOLD OUT: The Biggest Birthday Party Bash in Greenville is sold out. We look forward to seeing all of you who purchased tickets. A ticket is required for entry, and we will not sell tickets at the door.

Please be aware that scammers will immediately be offering to resell tickets. We will not be able to accommodate fake tickets due to space restrictions. Please be cautious of these scams. We will not allow any offers of ticket sales on our pages in an effort to decrease scams.

We look forward to seeing so many of you Friday night. We will send an email with full information for the event tonight. Be sure to read the email and have your tickets with you on Friday.

Happy Birthday! Kidding Around is turning 11 this year and we are inviting you to celebrate with us and our 2024 KABOOM winners.


What is the Biggest Birthday Party Bash in Greenville?

Our annual birthday party celebrates Kidding Around, our KABOOM winners and Kidding Around partners, and every family that follows Kidding Around!

Your ticket includes 2 hours of fun in The Children’s Museum of the Upstate, fun activities with our KABOOM winners, giveaways with our KABOOM winners, and birthday surprises!

What to expect:

  • Fun birthday themed party where every kid gets to be the birthday kid for the night!
  • 2 hours of play in the many exhibits of the museum
  • Birthday Gifts (AKA door prizes) for lucky winners
  • Birthday games & favors from our many partners
  • A chance to meet our KABOOM 2024 winners in person and learn about their offerings
  • Meet and get your photo with guests from Once Upon a Dream Parties including Rapunzel, Belle, Elsa, & Olaf! This year we will also have Reedy Rip’It from the Greenville Drive & Bubbles from Goldfish Swim School at our event
  • See below for a full list of activities including free cupcake decorating for the kids, free face painting with My Heart’s Desire Photography and more!
  • NEW: Each kid gets a free certificate for a kids’ meal at Habit Burger Grill!
  • NEW: Kona Ice of Greenville is providing free Konas to our guests outside from 6-7 pm (Konas must be eaten outside the museum.)

Cost: $10/person

All children must be accompanied by an adult. Children under 2 are free but must have a ticket.

Massive Giveaway Event with Approximately $5000 in prizes

Purchasing a ticket to the Biggest Birthday Bash in Greenville allows you to opt into our massive giveaway at the event. Many of our vendors will offer special door prizes during the event listed below! See our Kidding Around Greenville terms & conditions page for our full giveaway rules.

To enter, all you have to do is opt-into our massive giveaway event when you purchase your tickets. We will pick a winner for the limo ride one week before the event. Other prizes will be chosen after midnight on Thursday, February 22, 2024. Terms & Conditions apply and the ride must be under 30 minutes from The Children’s Museum of the Upstate.

KABOOM Winners that will be at our event:

One lucky attendee of our party will win a free limo ride for their party (up to 10 people) from GVL Limo to and from the Biggest Birthday Party Bash in Greenville. The winner will arrive in style right up to the front of The Children’s Museum of the Upstate where they will be escorted by one of our royal guests with Once Upon a Dream parties (weather permitting) from the limo to the very front of the line. The limo will also be scheduled to pick up our winner when the party ends at 8:30.

Visit each of our winners for chances to win prizes, get party favors, and play games! Check out the vendors you’ll see and some of the amazing prizes you can look forward to potentially winning:

  • Cherry Orchard Pediatric Dentistry & Cherry Orchard Oral Surgery
    PRIZE: Family Movie Night Bucket- multiple types of popcorn and popular candy along with a $25 Amazon Gift Card for movie purchases or rentals.
    AT THEIR TABLE: color & get fun goodies for the kids
  • Children’s Art Classes
    PRIZE: Free Summer Session valued at $125.
  • Dance Without Limits
    PRIZE: Free Half-day Summer Camp- Camps are for ages 3-6 and 6-10 with fun themes including Barbie, Taylor Swift, and Trolls. Camps include dancing, a themed craft, and a snack each day. We have a performance for parents at the end of each camp
    AT THEIR TABLE: an obstacle course for kids with a mini trampoline, hula hoops, cones, and a small wedge mat
  • Davis Orthodontics
    PRIZE: $500 off braces or invisalign
    AT THEIR TABLE: a prize wheel and will give away t-shirts, glow-in-the-dark bracelets, temporary tattoos, color-changing cups, and more!
  • Dr. Tom’s Orthodontics
    PRIZE: Gift certificate for $250 off orthodontic treatment
    AT THEIR TABLE: a prize wheel
  • Greenville Drive
    PRIZE: Greenville Drive Prize Pack – including tickets to a 2024 Drive game, Drive branded merch, and a special welcome shoutout for your group at the game
    AT THEIR TABLE: Reedy Rip’It will be there! Plus crafts and fun giveaways.
  • Greenville Martial Art Center
    PRIZE: GMAC merchandise and a certificate for a month of free classes ($145)
    AT THEIR TABLE: Experiment with Makey Makey and Energy Sticks.
  • Giggles Drop-in Childcare
    PRIZE: A date night package good for 4 date nights for up to 4 hours each, including dinner.
    AT THEIR TABLE: Glitter Tattoos and birthday party goody bags
  • Girl Scouts Mountains to Midlands
  • Goldfish Swim School
    PRIZE: Goldfish Swim Bag stocked with a FREE month of swim lessons, FREE month of Friday Night Family Swim, goggles, towel, book, & toy.
    AT THEIR TABLE: Get your photo with Bubbles the Goldfish Swim School Mascot and then join a scavenger hunt with the Bubbles and Friends mat in the Waterworks exhibit. Plus a prize wheel.
  • Ignite Learning Center
    PRIZE: Free week of STEAM camp
    AT THEIR TABLE: playdough and LED lights to experiment with circuits
  • Kids Play and Cafe
    PRIZE: 2 weekend passes and $10 at the cafe ($50)
    AT THEIR TABLE: decorate birthday cupcakes
  • My Heart’s Desire Photography
    PRIZE: Cake Smash Session with 10 digital images ($365)
    AT THEIR TABLE: face painting
  • Palmetto Gymnastics
    PRIZE: Free week of Summer Camp ($175 Value). One full week, 9:00 am – 1:00 pm with lots of gymnastics play plus a craft project each day. Snacks provided. For ages 5+
    AT THEIR TABLE: to be announced
  • Parkkonen Photography
    PRIZE: A free photo session and 11×20 canvas values at $250
    AT THEIR TABLE: A free photo session and 11×20 canvas values at $250
  • Piano Central Studios
    PRIZE: Two $50 gift cards which may be used towards any new enrollment with Piano Central Studios.
    AT THEIR TABLE: an instrument petting zoo
  • Provista Wealth Advisors
    PRIZE: The prize will be a combination of a Golf shirt, golf balls, hat, t-shirt, and mug.
    AT THEIR TABLE: play dough sensory kits & each kid gets a free piggy bank
  • Roper Mountain Science Center
    PRIZE: RMSC Family Membership.
    AT THEIR TABLE: Visit the Roper Mountain Science Center table to make a Robot Artist! Design and decorate your own robot then set it loose to draw unique artwork.
  • Strides Systematic Tutoring
    PRIZE: Harry Potter book and Spot It game
    AT THEIR TABLE: Spin a prize wheel to win 3D printed objects
  • Sylvan Learning Center
    PRIZE: A FREE month of Sylvan, including the initial assessment in order to generate the personalized learning plan that every student has at Sylvan. This is valued at $694 value. Attendance would be 2 sessions a week at any of our Upstate locations (Greenville, N.Main, Spartanburg, Easley, or Anderson).
    AT THEIR TABLE: A prize wheel with STEM questions
  • Takeoff Mini Golf
    PRIZE: Birthday Party package for 10 guests including shaved ice, water bottles, and 1.5 hours of private party space.
    AT THEIR TABLE: prize wheel & a fun airplane toss game
  • The Little Gym of Greenville
    PRIZE: A FREE Birthday Bash at The Little Gym of Greenville.
    AT THEIR TABLE: Prize wheel & swag giveaways
  • Trapped in the Upstate
    PRIZE: A four-player escape room gift card.
    AT THEIR TABLE: A mobile 10 minute escape room!
  • The Children’s Museum of the Upstate
    PRIZE: A family 4 pack of tickets to the museum!
    AT THEIR TABLE: A family membership giveaway plus a prize wheel
  • Yellowbobbypins Art Camp
    PRIZE: $100 gift certificate.
    AT THEIR TABLE: Sign the Biggest Birthday Party Card in Greenville

Terms and conditions apply. Giveaway prizes and activities are through our partners and subject to change.

Bottom Floor

The basement is packed with fun activities this year! You can play a fun game in the Waterworks exhibit with Bubbles the Goldfish mascot, head to the cafeteria to decorate cupcakes with Kid Play N’ Cafe, Join a Dance Party with Belle and run through an obstacle course with Dance Without Limits, sign the Biggest Birthday Card in Greenville with Yellowbobbypins Art Camp, and take a photo with Rapunzel before getting your face painted with My Heart’s Desire Photography.

Main Floor

Our main floor will be packed with fun activities from our partners & prizes for the kids. Be sure to visit Reedy Rip’It. A full list will be posted this week!

Upper Floor

Upstairs we have tons of fun including making robot artists with Roper Mountain Science Center, getting your photo with Elsa and Olaf, and more to be announced this week!

GVL Limo Giveaway – CLOSED

Greenville executive limo
Your sweet ride

GVL Limo’s NEW STRETCH LIMO is the ultimate party vehicle. This vehicle has it all…an insane Bose Professional Performance Sound System, two Flat Screen TVs, Karaoke, Video Games, LED Lights, Full Length Wet Bar, and Outside Digital Message Boards…what more could you want! Seating 10 people there is room for everyone!

Find Gifts They Will Adore: Upstate, SC Gift Guide

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Shopping for gifts in Greenville this season? While Christmas is much more than finding that perfect gift, we sure do love giving gifts that make our friends and family feel loved. However, figuring out what to give and where to find it can definitely feel like a monumental task. To help our readers out we’re sharing several gift-giving ideas. We’re talking about sharing great books, giving enriching experiences, teacher gift advice, and a huge Greenville Shop Local Guide where you can find unique gifts. We hope the content below helps make your gift-giving a tiny bit easier this season!

The Ultimate Greenville, SC Gift Guide

Looking for more Greenville, SC Holiday content? Here’s our Holiday Guide to Greenville, SC loaded with things to do, gifts, Christmas lights, day trips, and more.

Don’t forget to check back throughout the season as we share more great ideas!

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