Need a new place to play indoors? It’s cold out and the playground might not be an option, so check out Mountain Play Lodge in Arden, North Carolina. It’s only about an hour’s drive from Greenville and would make a fun family day!
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The Ultimate Guide to Day Trips Near Upstate, SC
Are you looking for day trips near Upstate SC? You have found our official Kidding Around Day Trip Headquarters! We have compiled our ever-expansive list of day trip offerings to one page, where you can easily find your desired trip, fuel your wanderlust, and still have the kiddos back by bedtime! Happy adventuring!
Where Would You Like to Take A Day Trip?
Best Day Trips: Who Has KABOOM?
The KABOOM Awards are Kidding Around’s annual best of contest. Readers say these are the TOP Day Trips in Greenville, SC
Enjoy This Hidden Gem In The Shadow Of Atlanta, GA
The big city of Atlanta is hiding a wonderful place in its shadow. The suburb of Dunwoody, Georgia is just minutes from Atlanta, and offers guests affordable accommodations, delicious food, beautiful parks, and more!
Find out why the Atlanta suburb is one of our favorite Georgia destinations!
For more fun and adventure in the Dunwoody area, check out the Kidding Around Guide to Travel in Georgia
Vacation Time! These GA, TN, & NC Cabins with Indoor Pools are Awesome!
If you are looking for a house with an indoor pool to rent, then we have you covered! We dug in and researched for you because amazing vacation homes with private indoor pools are surprisingly difficult to find and we know they make for wonderful family vacations. These mountain cabins and vacation house rentals are particularly perfect because they all include a private indoor pool. Plus, we added in a few homes in Virginia and Missouri that we think would be great for a longer vacation.
Your family can enjoy mountain towns and things to do, plus cozy fires, games, and swimming in your own private pool. We think these modest and luxury vacation rentals with private indoor pools make a pretty perfect trip, whether you’re looking for a little vacation away from the crowds, or just some quiet family time together.
(more…)Have Fun Celebrating The Holidays In Atlanta, Georgia
Are you looking for a fun weekend away this holiday season? Of course, holidays feel different in a big city like Atlanta, Georgia! So head west with our suggestions for holiday fun in Atlanta and its surrounding areas. Huge light displays, immersive art experiences, fun in the snow, and more await you and your family just a few hours away!
For year-round fun in the state of Georgia, check out the Kidding Around Guide to Travel in Georgia.
Places To Enjoy a Day Of Fun In and Around Atlanta
The energy in a big city during the holidays is unlike anything else. I can still vividly remember the first time I stood in Rockafeller Center as a child, with colossal light sculpture angels towering over me and people rushing past. For me, that big city energy is synonymous with the holiday season. Since I’m only able to get back to New York every few years and rarely during the holidays, the next best thing is Atlanta. There is even a Macy’s with an over-the-top holiday display! So hop in the car, and let’s go to the big city of Atlanta for some festive adventure!
Spending The Holidays in Downtown Atlanta
Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer™ at Center for Puppetry Arts needs to be on your holiday bucket list if you are a fan of the classic stop-motion animation holiday movie. The exhibit and show run from November 2nd, 2024, through December 29th, 2024. Guests can see the film recreated with puppets from the original production! The Center for Puppetry Arts is also a must-see for Jim Henson’s Muppets and Sesame Street fans.
ATL Holiday Lights at Atlantic Station is a holiday light display driven or walked through. ATL Holiday Lights runs from November 11th, 2024, through January 2nd, 2024. Prices start at $25 per carload (drive-thru) or $15 per adult for the walk-thru version (Thursday nights only). Kids 15 and under get in free, and more ticketing info can be found on the ATL Holiday Lights website.
The Sugar Plum, Fairy Forest in the Buckhead Village District is the perfect place for unique holiday photo opportunities. The Sugar Plum Fairy Forest features pastel floral canopies, life-sized whimsical trees, and larger-than-life-sized flowers. Visitors will also get to visit with Atlanta Ballet’s Sugar Plum Ballerinas each Saturday, November 27th through December 18th, from 12 PM-6 PM during the Holiday Shop & Stroll events.
Celebrations In Light at The Children’s Museum of Atlanta includes celebrating Hanukkah, Las Posadas, Christmas, and Kwanzaa throughout December. The Museum also offers a family NYE celebration if you find yourself in Atlanta to kick off the New Year.
Holiday Fun In Decatur, Ga
Decatur is one of my several home-away-from-home locations. Browsing through unique locally sourced shops, checking out the Holiday Happenings at Fernbank Museum of Natural History, and driving through the Avondale Christmas Tour of Homes are just a few of the things your family can enjoy when you visit the Atlanta suburb of Decatur. There are many Fun Things to do on a Day Trip to Decatur, Georgia!
Are you looking for more fun things to do in Decatur, Georgia?
Check out our Kidding Around Guide to Decatur!
Holiday Fun In Dunwoody, GA
Dunwoody is home to one of the largest malls in the Southeast! In addition to all the shopping opportunities you could desire, Dunwoody offers so much more in the way of holiday fun! Some of the events you can enjoy while visiting Dunwoody during the 2024 holiday season:
- Holiday Lights at Brook Run Park
See the playground come to life with over 25k lights! This display is free to visit and is open nightly from December 1st-31st, from 6-10 PM. - Holiday Cookie Decorating
Vino Venue invites all ages to enjoy this classic tradition of decorating Christmas cookies. Whether enjoyed with family or as a couple, this activity will surely provide a taste of the holidays. You must reserve your spot on their website. - Annual Holiday Artists Market
Shoppers can find unique gifts at Spruill Gallery’s Annual Holiday Artists Market. Open now through December 23; the Gallery will be transformed into a winter wonderland featuring handmade gifts from 100 local artists, including ceramics, jewelry, photography, and home décor - Holiday Lights at Ravinia Gardens
Enjoy live music, llamas, and the gardens in the Ravinia high rise complex that includes Crowne Plaza Hotel. The event starts on Thursday, December 12th, from 5 – 8 PM and continues throughout the season.
Are you looking for more fun things to do in Dunwoody, Georgia? Check out the Kidding Around Guide to Dunwoody, Georgia, for more info about Dunwoody.
The Downton Abbey Exhibition Is An Immersive History Lesson for fans and non-fans of the popular show! Visiting Downton Abbey During the Holidays is possible to see the Downtown Abbey Exhibition in nearby Sandy Springs, Georgia. Dressed up for the Holidays, guests can enjoy a Christmas tour of the exhibit and immerse themselves in the world of this well-to-do Crawley family. Select the Holiday Treat ticket package to receive a Cranberry Sparkler cocktail and British-themed sweet treat during your visit to Downtown Abbey.
Places To Enjoy Holiday Light Displays In Atlanta, GA
World of Illuminations is a mile-long drive-through attraction with nearly two million lights, all synchronized to music on a dedicated radio station. It will have you feeling like a kid, no matter how old you are! It will also have you feeling a bit in awe of all the work that must go into doing this on a homeowner level – this display had my eyeballs popping out! Don’t believe me? See for yourself! Two different presentations are available this year – one at Six Flags White Water and one at the Atlanta Motor Speedway.
Atlanta Botanical Garden Lights, Holiday Nights was voted the best holiday event in metro Atlanta by Atlanta Journal-Constitution readers. In 2020, the botanical gardens received nearly half of all the votes submitted! That’s quite a testimony! The walk-through tour is open through January 12th, 2024.
Lights of LIFE is one of the most under-rated light display attractions in the Atlanta area and one of the most budget-friendly! At just $10 a carload, this light display is a deal. There is also a walk-through portion that includes pony rides, a carousel ride, and more.
Festive Adventure Awaits at the Stone Mountain Christmas event, with a holiday-themed laser light show and visits with Santa. Then, after dark, you can hop on the train to see holiday lights and other surprises around the base of Stone Mountain.
Unique Holiday Experiences Near Atlanta, Georgia
Callaway Resort & Gardens Fantasy In Lights, voted one of National Geographic’s Top 10 Holiday Displays in the World, is a seven-mile drive-through display, plus a walkable village. Make the trip to Calloway Resort with the drive. In addition, You can stay overnight and make a winter-wonderful weekend trip!
Snow Island at Margaritaville provides guests with the chance to play in the snow and tube down one of the most thrilling snow tube hills in the country at 80 feet high and almost 600 feet long! Ice skating, smores making, and other winter fun await guests at this resort on Lake Lanier, between Atlanta and the Upstate.
The Blue Ridge Scenic Railway is just one more holiday train ride option for fans of the Polar Express movie. Situated in the North Georgia Mountains, the one-hour holiday train ride includes holiday music, a reading of “The Night Before Christmas,” and a gift to Children of a Blue Ridge Scenic Railway jingle bell, candy cane, and activity packet. In addition, hot cocoa and other concessions are available to purchase while on the “Holiday Express.”
Are you looking for more holiday getaways? Check out our holiday getaway guide.
Best Family Things to do Near Daytona Beach
Planning a trip down I-95? KAG contributor Kristina has some wonderful ideas of things to do near Daytona Beach, just an hour outside of Orlando, for families.
I had the opportunity to spend some time on the Atlantic coast in Central Florida and I tried to make the most of the time I had with my kids. We are homeschooling so I was searching for things to do that were both fun and educational, although you could certainly do any of this stuff without the homeschooling aspect.
The Daytona Beach area is about a seven-hour drive from Greenville and only a little over an hour from the Disney hotspot of Orlando. There is a lot to explore in this area and I hope you have the chance to check these places out!
This article contains Stay22 affiliate links.
Dunlawton Sugar Mill [CLOSED AS OF 10/18/24 FOR TWO MONTHS DUE TO HURRICANE DAMAGE]
This old sugar mill has a fascinating history in and of itself and the ruins are really neat to see. You may recognize some similar equipment as was used in the cotton and textile mills in South Carolina. But then you’ve got actual dinosaurs scattered throughout the botanical gardens! They are cement and it’s a blast to find them with your kids. Although kids cannot play on them, they are certainly a fun part of wandering through the beautiful flowers and old oak trees laced with Spanish moss.
There are also a couple free little libraries throughout the garden (a great opportunity to swap some books on your long drive). Restrooms are available on site.
950 Old Sugar Mill Rd, Port Orange, FL
Admission: Free
Website
Museum of Arts and Sciences
We loved this place because it has a huge kids area that combines learning with fun. It has several science-related exhibits that kids can enjoy, a play pizza parlor, a remote-controlled race car track, and even a planaterium. And if you have a Roper Mountain Science Center or WNC Nature Center membership, you get in free.
Admission: $19/adults, $10/kids ages 6-17, free/under 6; also free if you have an affiliated ASTC membership. Planetarium shows are $7/adults, $5/kids.
352 S Nova Rd, Daytona Beach, FL
Website
Ponce Preserve
This small park is such a treasure. It has great nature walking trails that wind through the preserve and come to a little playground and tower that you can climb up and look out at the ocean. There are boardwalks through the marshes with kayak launches as well. Birds, crabs, and other wildlife are plentiful. The trail also has some fitness equipment, which my kids loved playing on.
Admission: free
Website
Marine Discovery Center Boat Tour
We did the full moon boat tour and it was the coolest thing. Our guide was very knowledgeable about the area and we learned all about the local ecosystem, birds, dolphins, and manatees. The sunset was unreal and seeing the full moon rise was amazing. We got to see the Ponce Inlet Lighthouse (which we climbed the week before) so my kids had fun seeing it light up. The Marine Discovery Center also does kayak tours and the boat is covered so you are shaded from the sun. The center itself has some crabs, an eel, a corn snake (which we got to see eat some mice), and other fish plus a walking trail.
520 Barracuda Boulevard, New Smyrna Beach, FL
Admission: Free to the discovery center itself but the boat tours are an extra cost.
Website
Ponce Inlet Lighthouse
Climb the 203 steps that twist up the middle of Florida’s tallest lighthouse. You can also tour the old houses of former lighthouse keepers and a really neat lighthouse building with lots of mirrored panes that show how the lights work. There are also other historical aspects to the lighthouse which are worth taking some time to explore.
4931 South Peninsula Drive, Ponce Inlet, FL
Admission: Free to tour the historical homes and buildings about the lighthouse. To climb the lighthouse, the cost is $6.95/age 12+, $1.95/ages 3-11, free/under 2.
Website
Blue Spring State Park [PARTS OF THE PARK ARE CURRENTLY CLOSED AS OF NOV. 2024 – CHECK WEBSITE BEFORE YOU GO]
Want to swim and canoe in crystal clear water over the summer and see manatees in the winter? Then you have to go to Blue Spring State Park. It’s an easy day trip from the coast or Orlando and completely worth it. Read our review here.
2100 W French Avenue, Orange City, FL
Website
Riverwalk Park
During those hot months, which is most of the year in Florida, Riverwalk Park has a great splashpad and playground plus lots of space for kids to run around. We loved hanging out here. You can also rent kayaks and canoes to use on the river.
3459 S. Ridgewood Avenue, Port Orange, FL
Website
Seabird Island
If you like to fish, this is the place. There are two piers to cast your line into the intercoastal waterway. I didn’t see anyone catch anything when I was there but the view was awesome. You can see the Daytona Beach skyline and it’s just a neat location to check out, maybe have a picnic. There are restrooms and boat launches as well.
Ramp at the bottom of the bridge onto Daytona Beach
Admission: Free
Kennedy Space Center and Cocoa Beach
Just an hour south of Daytona Beach and the same distance from Orlando, the Kennedy Space Center and nearby Cocoa Beach should definitely by on your day trip list. I love all things space-related so going to the complex was just fascinating. And since my kids and watched SpaceX missions, they were just as interested as well – and kept asking if we would be seeing the astronauts, Bob and Doug. Cocoa Beach is close by so going to the pier there and checking out the fun shops was an easy add-on.
Space Commerce Way,
Admission to the Kennedy Space Center: $75/adult, $65/child (ages 3-11)
Admission to Cocoa Beach Pier: Free
New Smyrna Beach
We spent a day at New Smyrna Beach at Flagler Avenue browsing the shops with lots of cool apparel and jewelry from local artists. We had lunch overlooking the beach at Breakers, which was fairly reasonable. If you want to drive on the beach from there, it will cost you $20. Or just park in area lots and walk on the beach. There is also Smyrna Beach Dunes park with access to fishing and swimming.
Admission to Dunes Park: $10
Admission to the drive on beach at Flagler Ave: $20
St. Augustine
This was my favorite day trip I took my girls to because the feeling of walking through our country’s oldest city was just amazing. We loved it. Of course there are touristy aspects but the locally made pumpkin spice latte and Castillo San Marcos made me fall in love with the city. The fort – Castillo San Marcos – is built right on the water and has a very interesting history. The free Junior Ranger Program is a must-do if you go to make the most of your visit and learn about it! The old town was such a pleasure to walk through. There are little shops and restaurants and cafes that are fun to wander around in. If you’re Catholic and want to attend Mass, the cathedral downtown is just the place. The church is decorated beautifully. You can head to the Alligator Farm Zoo in St. Augustine to make it a full day trip. We also really enjoyed the Pirate Museum – it’s not cheesy, promise.
St. Augustine, FL
Admission: No fees to walk around Old Town or the fort, although you’ll have to pay for tickets to Castillo San Marcos and any of the attractions in town.
Where would you choose to go in Florida on the Atlantic Coast?
There’s plenty more fun things to do where this story came from! Check out more fun destinations on our Kidding Around Greenville Travel page.
Why Fayetteville, NC Should Be Your Next Destination: The Holidays and Beyond
My family and I were fortunate enough to tour the city of Fayetteville this October and after our experience, we think you should put it down as your next destination. Under 4 hours from Greenville, Fayetteville has every experience you need for an amazing vacation.
In the fall we enjoyed everything from a Zombie Parade downtown to amazing views of fall leaves. We also discovered events for a wide range of ages from younger kids all the way to teens and adults. This holiday season enjoy epic holiday light displays, a Dickens Christmas event, and much more!
Thank you to Distinctly Fayetteville for hosting our Fall visit.
Fayetteville in Winter
What’s happening in Fayetteville over the holiday season? Lots! And that makes it the perfect place for a special holiday getaway. Here are 6 great holiday events happening in 2024.
A Dickens Holiday (November 29th, 2024)
For 25 years, A Dickens Holiday has been a treasured tradition in Fayetteville’s holiday season. Drawing inspiration from the classic stories of Charles Dickens, this event turns downtown into a festive wonderland filled with shopping, carolers, street performers, and holiday activities that are sure to warm even Scrooge’s heart.
What began as a joyful escape from the chaos of Black Friday has grown into a beloved celebration, drawing thousands of visitors each year.
Holiday Lights at The Garden
The Cape Fear Botanical Garden is a captivating, walk-through spectacle brimming with thousands of sparkling lights and colorful displays that transport visitors into the spirit of the season. Enjoy visits from Santa and the Grinch, discover unique holiday photo opportunities, and immerse yourself in festive music throughout the garden.
Fayetteville Holiday Lights
From Nov. 29 to Dec. 23, Segra Stadium will shine brightly with Fayetteville Holiday Lights. For the fourth year, the stadium will feature over 2 million lights, a dozen stunning displays, and Fayetteville’s tallest illuminated Christmas tree. Visitors can also enjoy holiday-themed food and drinks, along with special promotions every day of the event.
Festival of Lights and Tiny’s Winter Wonderland at Sweet Valley Ranch
Sweet Valley Ranch becomes a dazzling Christmas Wonderland during its Festival of Lights, a drive-through light display featuring over a million lights and more than 350 animals.
Guests can also browse the gift shop, enjoy amusement rides, and shop with local vendors at this fun, family-friendly event.
Holiday Jubilee (December 8th, 2024)
The 1897 EA Poe House, located within the Museum of the Cape Fear Historical Complex, will host its annual Holiday Jubilee on Dec. 8. This year’s celebration includes a free concert by the Coventry Carolers and the Fayetteville Sound Barbershop Chorus, performing holiday classics on the Poe House front porch.
Additional highlights include a cooking demonstration on the 1902 Glenwood stove, Christmas stories read by Santa, and the beautifully decorated Poe House.
Christmas Market at Dirtbag Ales (December 13 – 15, 2024)
Dirtbag Ales Brewery and Taproom is known for its handcrafted, small-batch beers, ranging from classic ales and lagers to bold experimental brews like the cold-brew mocha porter, which push the limits of traditional flavors.
From December 13-15 2024, Dirtbag will host its seventh annual Christmas Market, featuring over 80 holiday-themed food vendors and local artists and makers. The region’s top food trucks will be on-site, with live Christmas music performances taking place each day.
Fayetteville in Fall
Here are 4 reasons why we think Fayetteville Should Be Your Next Fall Destination.
#1 Downtown Fayetteville goes all out for fall!
Fayetteville knows how to celebrate the holidays. The downtown is walkable with historic brick downtown buildings festively decorated for the Fall and Halloween season.
🎃 Pumpkin Trail
Themed painted and carved jack-o’-lanterns are displayed throughout the downtown area.
🎃 Skeleton Alley
Just off of Hay Street, we encountered “Skeleton Alley” with some towering, beautifully decorated Dia de los Muertos artwork displays. These skeletons were being sold by local artists and businesses to raise funds for relief and recovery efforts in Western North Carolina.
🎃Specialty fall-themed drinks
🎃Zombie Walk and Prom
Downtown Fayetteville streets come alive, or should we say undead, with their annual Zombie Walk and Prom where Zombies roam the streets the Friday before Halloween.
🎃Free District Trolley
After a bit of walking, we learned that on the weekend you can catch the Free District Trolley. Not only was the driver friendly, but she was also very informative, pointing out some local hot spots. The trolley even participated in the season with fun, festive lights.
#2 Fayetteville offers a wide range of fall fun for younger kids.
🎃Kids can trick-or-treat downtown Fayetteville on Halloween
🎃BOOtanical Garden in Fayetteville complete with a multi-story play area.
The highlight of our fall trip would have to be the Halloween at BOOtanical Garden at Cape Fear Botanical Garden. The event included:
- A garden landscape was filled with whimsical skeletons and decorations and trees encircled with lights.
- trick or treat stations
- craft areas with games
Their Children’s Garden was beautiful, with multi-story play areas to climb and explore.
536 N. Eastern Boulevard Fayetteville, NC 28301
Open 9 am-5 pm
BOOtanical Garden at Cape Fear Botanical Garden
🎃Gallberry Corn Maze
If you’re looking for fall family fun outside of downtown you can visit Gallberry Corn Maze. Experience their Fall Harvest Festival with kid-friendly attractions such as slides, jumping pillows, and games. They also have “Nas-hawg” pig races that are sure to entertain the whole family. We especially enjoyed the Fruity Pebbles funnel cake from one of the food truck vendors.
5991 Braxton Road Hope Mills, NC 28348
Open 11 am-8 pm
Gallberry Corn Maze
#3 Fayetteville might be haunted. Even their downtown comes alive with Zombies.
🎃Zombie Walk and Prom
Downtown Fayetteville streets come alive, or should we say undead, with their annual Zombie Walk and Prom where Zombies roam the streets the Friday before Halloween.
🎃Stoney Point Trail of Terror
If you’re looking for more thrills and chills, be sure to visit the Stoney Point Trail of Terror in October. This event is run by the Stoney Point Fire Department, along with volunteers from the community. The haunted attraction is gruesome and frightfully fun, with a live band performing on stage as you wait. Proceeds from the attraction go towards the local Fire Department.
7221 Stoney Point Road Fayetteville, NC 28306
Open 8 pm-11 pm
Stoney Point Trail of Terror
🎃Historical Haunted Landmarks
If that isn’t enough to satiate your cravings for the supernatural, take a drive and visit some historical haunted landmarks.
Cool Spring Tavern
We were able to drive by the Cool Spring Tavern, this building was built in 1788. It is rumored to be the home to multiple spirits who haunt within its walls.
Sandford House
Just a couple minutes away is the Sandford House on Dick St, which is reported to be the most haunted building in Fayetteville, so we had to check it out.
#4 Fayetteville Offers Amazing Views of Fall Leaves.
Mazarick Park
If you’re looking for some more picturesque scenery and fall colors, take a trip to Mazarick Park for some leaf peeping. From the floating dock you’ll capture some Insta-worthy photos of Glenville Lake with the multi-colored trees in the background. This multi-purpose park has paved trails with picnic tables and a bathroom nearby.
1400 Belvedere Avenue, Fayetteville
Exercise Your Inner Foodie in Fayetteville: Where to Eat
The Coffee Scene at Prince Charles
With temperatures dropping we of course had to keep our hands warm with some delicious, seasonal lattes from The Coffee Scene at Prince Charles. If coffee isn’t your scene, you can enjoy some freshly brewed teas from Winterbloom. We tried the Tea of the Day, Honey Forest Berries, it was refreshing and did not disappoint.
450 Hay Street, Fayetteville
The Coffee Scene Instagram
Gaston Brewing for Lunch
We discovered Gaston Brewing for lunch, my husband and I enjoyed a scrumptious Sirloin Steak Melt and the kids enjoyed some burgers.
124 Hay Street, Fayetteville
Gaston Brewing Website
Dirtbag Ales Brewery & Taproom for Dinner
In the evening we enjoyed a brew and dinner at Dirtbag Ales Brewery & Taproom. After a long day of adventuring, we kicked back and listened to some live music, and ate some tasty food while sitting under the stars. It was nice to unwind at this family-friendly hangout while the kiddos played on the playground.
5435 Corporation Drive Hope Mills, NC 28348
Open 11:30 am-10 pm
Dirtbag Ales Brewery & Taproom
Bonus: More Things to Do in Fayetteville
U.S. Airborne and Special Operations Museum
Fayetteville beams with pride showcasing its rich military history by honoring its past with Memorials and Museums. We spent an hour touring the U.S. Airborne and Special Operations Museum and learning more about the military history of the area and beyond, showcasing over 80 years of army history for the U.S. airborne and special operations units.
This museum is free with donations requested.
100 Bragg Boulevard Fayetteville, NC 28301
Open 12 pm-4 pm
U.S. Airborne and Space Operations Museum
J. Bayard Clark Park & Nature Center
Clark Park is the city’s second-largest regional park. Set beside the Cape Fear River, the park was designed as a natural woodland area dedicated to preserving the environment and educating the public on North Carolina plants and wildlife. The park includes 3 trails and also a Nature Center that showcases both static displays and live reptiles and amphibians.
631 Sherman Dr, Fayetteville, NC
Gillis Hill Farm
You’ll find animals, history, ice cream and more here at Gillis Hill Farm! The farm has been in Cumberland County for nine generations. Guests can tour the property to learn about the family’s history, seeing animals, antique farm equipment, and restored buildings. It also features its own ice cream shop with all flavors made homemade on-site.
2899 Gillis Hill Road Fayetteville, NC 28306
Open 11 am-7:30 pm
Gillis Hill Farm
Museum of the Cape Fear Historical Complex
Learn the history of southeastern North Carolina from Native American times to present day. The museum includes galleries, and Arsenal Park, which houses the remains of the Fayetteville Arsenal that General Sherman burned during the Civil War.
801 Arsenal Avenue, Fayetteville, NC
ZipQuest
As the premier zipline adventure facility in North Carolina, ZipQuest was nominated as one of USA Today’s top 10 Ziplines in the country. This exhilarating two-and-a-half-hour immersive zip line experience is designed to tell a story of nature and adventure. Soar through treetops and take in stunning views of lush forests and the area’s only waterfall. There are multiple courses designed for all skill levels!
533 Carvers Falls Road, Fayetteville
Where to Stay in Fayetteville
We stayed at Hampton Inn & Suites Fayetteville which was conveniently located and offered free breakfast.
2065 Cedar Creek Road, Fayetteville, NC 28312
Find more great places to stay in Fayetteville
Use the map below to find hotels and vacation rentals nearby.
Kidding Around earns when you book through this map through an affiliate relationship with STAY22.
Other Annual Events in Fayetteville
- Running Water Powwow 9/7/24
- Field of Honor 9/9 thru 11/11
- Greek Festival 9/13-9/15
- Oktoberfest 9/28
- International Folk Festival 9/27-9/29
October 2024 Events
November 2024 Events
Christmas Wonderland Huge Light Display and Winterfest Village at the Tryon International Equestrian Center near Greenville, SC
Ever heard of the Tryon Christmas Lights? Millions of lights are on display through more than 2 miles of entertaining Christmas lights in the Christmas Wonderland Light Show at the Tryon International Equestrian Center only an hour from Greenville, SC. We have visited Winterfest each year for several years, and we’re bringing you all the 2024 details.
Media tickets were given so Kidding Around could review the Christmas Wonderland and Winterfest Village. We have updated this review with 2024 dates and details.
Watch our 2024 Visit to Winterfest at TIEC
About the Lights at TIEC
In one of our area’s best drive-through Christmas light displays, the Christmas Wonderland Light Show has set up millions of lights synchronized to an orchestra of holiday music in Tryon, North Carolina at the beautiful Tryon International Equestrian Center (TIEC), just an hour from Greenville, SC.
Winterfest Village is a great add-on to the drive-through light show with ice skating, s’mores, live music and entertainment, and lots more.
2024 Dates for the Christmas Wonderland Light Show: November 22, 2024 through January 5th, 2025. Winterfest Village happens Fridays-Sundays November 29th through December 23rd, 2024.
If you’re familiar with Saturday Nights Lights during the warmer months of the year at the TIEC, the light show and Winterfest Village happens at the same location. The Christmas Wonderland Light Show happens every night from 6-10 pm, November 22, 2024 through January 5th, 2025. I’ve been to several drive-through light displays and this is absolutely one of the very best ones out there.
What to Expect at Shadrack’s Christmas Wonderland
When you get off at the exit for the TIEC, you’ll see signs directing you toward the light show, which is across the bridge if you’re coming from Greenville. Hang a left after the exit for 74 West onto a gravel road, where you’ll follow the road down to a bridge that you’ll go under and be directed to the entrance to the light show.
Tune your radio to 92.9 FM so you can listen to the music and watch the lights dance along.
Once you pay the entrance fee, turn off those headlights and start your adventure. This is drive-thru only and you can’t get out of the car during the ride. There are millions of lights over about two and a half miles. The road twists through tons of light displays and both kids and adults will be awed by the lights, especially as they sync up to the Christmas music.
You can only go through once with your admission so go slow and take it all in. It took us about 25 to 30 minutes to go through the whole light show. Once you are through the synchronized lights, you head into the TIEC through a back entrance and enjoy silly and creative Santa light displays.
The first time I took my kids, they were 8 and 5. Now they are 11 and 8 and they still loved it. They were blown away by all the lights and thought the music was upbeat and fun. The tunes are a mix of traditional and newer Christmas music. They wanted to go through it again when we were finished.
Winterfest Village at the Tryon Resort
Winterfest is back! Every Friday-Sunday November 29th, 2024 through December 23rd, 2024, families can head to the Legends Plaza which is transformed into Winterfest Village. Admission to Winter Village is $18 per person. The paid activities include Grinch & Whoville experience, Santa Meet-and-Greet, bounce houses, and carousel rides. Ice skating is also an additional fee, beginning at $15.
- Meet the Grinch
- Tryon Mini’s Pumpkin and Daisy
- Evening closing parade
- Visits with Santa
- Carousel Rides
- Bounce House
- Live Music and Entertainment
- Shopping
- S’mores & Storytelling
Ice Skating
Winterfest Village includes ice skating in 2024, which is super fun! The rink is situated right in the middle of the action in the area where normally the horses compete. Your ticket to ice skating includes an hour on the ice (real ice, by the way). And the ice skates are probably the nicest skates I’ve ever rented. You can also bring your own skates.
Tickets for ice skating starts at $15 each and kids ages 4 and up can participate. You can purchase timed skating tickets online or at the gate. Ice skating at the TIEC will run through January 1, 2025. You can even have a birthday party or field trip here!
And don’t forget to get hot chocolate right next to the ice skate rental tent. It is delicious, nice and chocolatey. There is Christmas music playing and the atmosphere is festive and fun. People who don’t want to skate can hang out at the picnic tables next to the rink or enjoy the other activities in the same area such as the ice slide, bounce house, kids horse jumping area (they can jump over obstacles like horses), or mechanical horse.
Santa’s Workshop & Breakfast at Winterfest
Both kids and adults can take professional photos at Santa’s Workshop during Winterfest. Photos are for purchase but they have such a cute and cozy setup along with an elf who will welcome you and introduce you to Santa.
The Tryon Resort also has Breakfast with Santa available Saturdays November 30th through December 21st, 2024 . Seatings are from 9 am to 1 pm. Tickets include a kid-friendly breakfast buffet and must be purchased ahead of time. Tickets are $10 and free for ages 4 and under.
Information You Need to Know About Christmas Wonderland & Winterfest
The Christmas Wonderland light show happens daily from 6 – 10 pm, including holidays. Expect to wait a bit more if you go on weekends versus weekdays.
2024 admission to the light show is below:
$45/car or family van (8 passengers or less)
Admission grants you one pass through the light display for the date you chose.
Will you plan on going to Winterfest and the Christmas Wonderland Light Show in Tryon this year?
Winterfest Christmas at TIEC
4066 Pea Ridge Road, Mill Spring, NC
Here’s Where to Have a Ski/Snow Tubing Weekend Adventure From Greenville, SC
Wanting to go on a fun, winter weekend adventure snow tubing or skiing? We’ve got the best places to go within a couple hours’ drive of Greenville, SC for winter fun.
If you haven’t dreamed of sipping hot chocolate inside a ski lodge and cozying up in front of a hot fire while reminiscing about your time on the slopes, this is the year to dream and make it happen. And the good news is that you don’t need to go far at all from Greenville, SC to have an awesome winter adventure.
These recommendations are all places that we’ve been to personally and have enjoyed with our families. They are also all open after the hurricane and are truly in need of tourism. We need them to be there for years to come! So you can not only plan a great weekend with your family but also help WNC businesses to stay afloat.
Where To Have a Winter Weekend Adventure
Sapphire Valley in Cashiers, NC
The Sapphire Valley Resort hosts skiing and snow tubing usually starting in mid-December. Their target opening date is December 14th, 2024. They also have an amazing thing called the Great Outhouse Race, which consists of outhouses decorated in all kinds of interesting themes that race on skis down the mountain. It’s even more than it sounds, promise. That happens President’s Day weekend.
The resort itself is beautiful and every time I’ve gone, I have used AirBnB or VRBO to book a condo. You can purchase the amenity card for a few dollars per person and that gives you access to the warm indoor pool, sauna, fitness center, and game room. The Sapphire Valley Resort is only about 90 minutes from Greenville.
Maggie Valley, NC
Maggie Valley is right next to the Great Smoky Mountain National Park and just beautiful. They have a main street area but it’s along a busy highway so you’ll need to use your car to move around to different shopping areas. The shops have all local goods and they are just adorable.
Maggie Valley also has great snow tubing and skiing at Cataloochee. At the time of writing this (2024), they are open for the season! We recommend staying at Buffalo Creek Vacations, a bison ranch 25 minutes away that has cabooses and cabins perfect for families. As if that’s not enough incentive for staying at such a cool place, Buffalo Creek participates in the Kids Stay & Ski Free program where kids ages 17 and under are able to ski for free with a paid adult on non-holidays Monday-Friday (they must stay on the property on a non-holiday Sunday-Thursday and ski the next day). For example, if two parents buy two lift tickets, then two kids get their lift tickets for free.
Beech Mountain, NC
Beech Mountain is known for their beautiful ski resort and amazing views. They will open for the season on November 28th, 2024. We especially love Beech Mountain for their family-friendly aspect. They have really awesome restaurants for families, an adorable general store in the middle of town with one of the best breakfasts you’ll ever have, and free/cheap activities around the mountain.
In the winter, they offer free snow tubing on a hill in the middle of town plus, of course, their ski resort. We stayed at the Pinnacle Inn Resort, a collection of condos and rentals right in the middle of the action at Beech Mountain, provided by Beech Mountain Chalet Rentals. We could walk to three restaurants, the general store, playgrounds, and the Visitor Center. It was the perfect location plus it has a warm indoor pool, sauna, steam room, and fitness room.
Nearby is Sugar Mountain, which also has a ski resort. We have not been there but it is another option in the area.
Blowing Rock, NC
Another quaint mountain town, Blowing Rock has the Appalachian Ski Mountain nearby, which is perfect for families. They will open on November 27th, 2024. Classes taught by the French-Swiss Ski College at Appalachian Ski Mountain are beginner, intermediate, or private. After trying out the bunny slope and managing the stops and starts just fine on our own, we opted to not take the ski class but when we head back up this season with all of the kids, I’ll definitely sign the younger ones up for the class.
The hills at Appalachian Ski Mountain are not so intimidating that a beginner is terrified, but they are plenty challenging enough for when your son or daughter (or you) become a bit of an “expert” after spending a day on the slopes. It’s a small enough mountain too, with one main ending spot for all of the slopes, that you can feel confident allowing your older children the freedom to go down slopes without you if that’s more your speed as well. In fact, those facts make it an excellent choice for beginning skiers and skiing families.
We’d recommend staying at the Hemlock Inn right in downtown Blowing Rock. The rooms are so beautiful and cozy and the owner is very kind.
Hayesville-Highlands Outpost, NC
Even though the Magical Mountain Resort and the Highlands Outpost are about an hour apart, we still think pairing these two places for a weekend getaway is perfect because the resort is just that amazing. It’s a fairy tale-themed resort with Alice in Wonderland cabins, a Harry Potter Midknight double decker bus, and so many more amazing and whimsical cabins. Highlands Outpost has amazing snow tubing and a mountain coaster. They are currently open for the 2024 season.
Lanier Islands, GA
Just a two-hour drive from Greenville lies Lanier Islands in Georgia. You really don’t even need to leave this place for your weekend of fun since they have snow tubing, restaurants, and a game room and arcade all on site. Snow tubing happens at Margaritaville at Lanier Islands and the tubing run is an astounding 575 feet long! They also have ice skating and a play area where you can have snowball fights. All of the winter activities are now open for the 2024 season.
We visited in the warmer months and have all you need to know about the local area, best place to stay, places to eat, and things to do in addition to the snow fun at Margaritaville.
Where will you go weekend adventuring this winter?
Looking for more places to ski? Don’t miss our list of places to hit the slopes and ski or snow tube near Greenville, SC.
Find more amazing destinations!
Festive Adventure Awaits at the Stone Mountain Christmas Celebration
Are you looking for a special way to celebrate the holiday season this year? Christmas at Stone Mountain Georgia is a great choice! Looking for a special activity to enjoy with your family that is outdoors and festive? Have you considered a trip to Georgia’s Stone Mountain Park, for their Christmas Celebration? We spent opening day as a guest of Stone Mountain Park to check out what a holiday trip to the Georgia attraction will look like.
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!
Stone Mountain Georgia provides a unique mountaintop view of the Atlanta skyline. Oddly enough as much time as I spend in that area of Georgia, I had never been to the park despite being just minutes away.
Staying at Stone Mountain
At about 2.5 hours from the Upstate, Stone Mountain is definitely doable as a day trip, however an early start is highly recommended so you can get the most out of your day there.
If you decide to make a weekend of the trip, there are so many activities to enjoy at Stone Mountain Park, in addition to the seasonal attractions and the mountain. Guests can enjoy 7 hiking trails, watersports, biking, golf, and more. You can spend the entire weekend within the confines of the park with several different options for overnight accommodations.
- Atlanta Evergreen Marriott is a full service hotel at the foot of the mountain on Stone Mountain lake.
- Stone Mountain Campground features over 400 RV, pop-up, and Tent sites. As well as Yurt, Safari Tent, and RV Rentals. If you’ve ever wondered what RV like would be like, you can rent a stationary one to try it out!
Hike-it or Ride Up the Mountain in Style
The top of Stone Mountain is accessible to everyone, you just need to decide which options are the best for you and your family, before planning your trip.
Option 1: Stone Mountain Walk Up Trail
Hiking to the top of the 2.2 mile trail is rated as extremely difficult and strenuous. Despite this rating, it is also noted as being kid friendly and we saw families on the trailhead. I asked in my local family hiking group for feedback, and plenty of Upstate families have successfully scaled the mountain. I didn’t know that hiking to the top was an option beforehand, and look forward to trying this the next time we visit.
The trailhead has it’s own parking lot at the rear of the mountain. You will need to park at the trailhead to hike the mountain, and then drive to the other side for the Christmas attraction. I suggest arriving early to start your hike, prior to the Skyride opening at 10am. That will give you a much quieter experience at the summit.
Option 2: Summit Skyride
For an additional fee of $5 per person (ages 3+) added to your attraction pass purchase, you can enjoy a ride on a swiss-style cable car to the top of the mountain. The car only takes 3 families at a time, so timed reservations are required. I highly suggest you purchase them in advance. Due to the reduced capacity, the tickets sell out early and it would be a shame to miss the view from the top. The time you reserve is a a tool to help staff space out guests, so don’t panic if you’re a few minutes late or early and be patient if you find they are running behind.
The Skyride opens at 10 am, and I suggest getting there as close to then as possible. The Christmas attraction doesn’t open until later (12 pm-2 pm depending on the day), so you can enjoy the mountain, and then head down and do all the things that are part of the holiday festivities.
Christmas at Stone Mountain
I suggest getting to the park ahead of the scheduled attraction opening, to give you time to get through the ticket line without wasting time you could be having fun.
During the day you can enjoy several different holiday shows on the Memorial Lawn located at the base of the mountain. (See the entertainment schedule for your day’s show times)
During The Day :
- Tinseltone Carolers (15 minute show)
- Aaron Radatz : The Magic of Christmas (20 minutes show)
- A Wish for Snow (15-minute show)
After The Sun Sets :
- Enchanted Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony (6 pm nightly)
- Christmas Lasershow (10 minutes)
We found a bench and the perfect spot to watch the lasershow in the “Louisianna” viewing spot located on the west side of the lawn.
- The Polar Express: The Experience (12 minute show)
- Snow Angel’s Christmas Parade & Fireworks Finale (8:45 pm nightly)
In addition to the shows on the lawn, there are several others tucked away in spots around the Crossroads Area of the park.
- MIstle Tales (10 minute show)
- Frosted Fables (10 minute show)
- A Christmas Carol (20 minute show)
- James Maltman: Elfin Around (10 minute show)
The Scenic Railroad offers guests a 40-minute ride on a 1940’s train around the base of Stone Mountain. Passengers will be treated to a telling of “The Gift” during a stop at the halfway mark of the 5-mile trip. We boarded the train right at sunset and got treated to both daylight and nighttime views of the area, it was perfect! Grab a drink and a potty break before getting in line, because you might be waiting for about an hour in line.
Great Locomotive Adventure Golf is a glow-in-the-dark mini-golf experience that starts at sundown. Try to head this way in between shows after dark.
Skylights spectacularly turns the zipline course area into a walk-thru light experience, with a surprise in store for guests.
Stone Mountain Christmas Tickets
Purchase Attraction & Parking Passes for admission to Stone Mountain Christmas
Ages 2 and under – Free
Ages 3 to 11- $34.99
Age 12 + – $39.99
VIP tickets are $10 more
Parking – $20
Tickets include:
- Summit Skyride 10 am – 4 pm
- Scenic Railroad
- Dinosaur Explore
- Dinotorium
- 4D Theater
- Mini-Golf
- Historic Square
- Christmas Drone & Light Show
- Santa’s Big Flight
- Christmas Parade
Tickets do not include Flight to the North Pole attraction.
Stone Mountain Park Christmas
1000 Robert E. Lee Boulevard, Stone Mountain GA 30083
Are you looking for more fun towns to visit in the South during Christmas? Check out our Kidding Around 30+ Best Christmas Towns in The South Guide.
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