Since opening in 2015, Primrose School of Simpsonville at Five Forks has established themselves as a highly valued and respected private kindergarten & preschool. They’ve brought their high standard of education and enthusiasm to local families and continue to provide students with early learning education—making sure students are ready for elementary school!
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Five Reasons Why Summer Camp is Awesome at YMCA of Greenville
Who’s ready for summer camp season? We are! Kids look forward to days spent running around outside, acting silly, learning something new and having fun with their peers.
And let’s be honest, parents love it too! Thank you YMCA of Greenville for sponsoring this article.
Driving Tour: Stunning Waterfalls in NC That Involve No Hiking
Want to see the great outdoors without actually hiking? Kidding Around’s Kristina loves hunting out great waterfalls. She’s created this amazing driving tour packed full of stops where you can see waterfalls without hiking. It’s a perfect day trip activity. She even included a map with all the stops. So fire up that GPS or pop open your favorite map app and get going!
Looking for more waterfalls?
💧Love waterfalls? Here’s our list of Waterfalls in the Southeast with great hiking in South Carolina, Georgia, North Carolina, and Tennesse.
💧Also, if you happen to just love waterfalls like we do and are looking for opportunities to keep them clean and pristine, look into volunteering at any of these outdoor places.
There are few places I’d rather be on the weekends than hiking with my kids to some spectacular waterfall. I’ve done a lot of them and plan lots more. But sometimes hiking a few, or more, miles just isn’t happening. But waterfalls? Yes, I still want to see them!
So if you have the grandparents on board and can’t hike or if there is no way you are listening to kids whine for two hours in the woods or for whatever reason you aren’t hiking, we’ve put together an epic (yes, this is epic) waterfall tour in North Carolina for the ultimate day trip that will kill it on your Instagram feed.
If you need more fun in Western NC, see our big Guide to WNC!
North Carolina Waterfall Driving Tour Map
Just beyond the South Carolina/North Carolina border lies the “Land of the Waterfalls” – it’s true, there is an actual sign that says this – so this is where our epic tour takes you. And because we love our readers and want to make things super easy, we also put together a map of the tour!
I suggest you pack a lot of snacks, drinks, lunch, and some car entertainment since you will have to spend time on the road, even though the drive through the mountains is gorgeous.
You can do this tour starting at either the first or the last waterfall as it takes about the same amount of time as well.
Looking Glass Falls
This waterfall is huge and gorgeous. It’s been on my list since I saw an incredible shot of the falls frozen during the winter. I was really hoping to catch the same photo when I went but it wasn’t cold enough. However, ice did cover the stairs at the very bottom of the falls and the surrounding trees, branches and rocks. It was awesome.
You can literally see the falls from the car but park it anyways, get out and if you have people who are willing and able to walk down the stairs, you can get a close-up view. But if not, you will still get to see the falls in all their glory.
Directions
From Greenville, take 276 W to 25 N and take Exit 5 to 25 N. Take Crab Creek Road to 64 W in Brevard and then take 276 N into Pisgah National Forest. The falls will be on your right.
Sliding Rock
Right down the street from Looking Glass Falls in the Pisgah National Forest is the popular summer destination of Sliding Rock. During the winter, there is no one there and you don’t have to pay to enter (during the summer season, it is $5/person).
You can see Sliding Rock from the top where the bathrooms are located and it’s a short walk down the stairs to the platform that overlooks the gigantic natural waterslide.
The pool is about eight feet deep and during the summer there are lifeguards to keep everyone safe. It’s a sight to see though!
Directions
From Looking Glass Falls, keep going on 276 into the forest and Sliding Rock is about four minutes away on the left.
Bridal Veil Falls
It’s about an hour and 20 minutes from Sliding Rock to Bridal Veil Falls in between Cashiers and Highlands but the drive along 64 is gorgeous. And you can go through Brevard if you like and grab lunch (I’d suggest Square Root for higher end cuisine or grab some delicious pastries and bread to make sandwiches at the Bracken Mountain Bakery) to space out the trip and fuel up. We also love stopping at the original O.P. Taylors toy store in downtown Brevard.
Bridal Veil Falls is literally on the side of the road. You could even stay in your car and see this beautiful 60-foot cascading waterfall but really, you should get out because it’s so pretty, especially in the winter when it freezes over occasionally and icicles drop down and make the whole scene ethereal.
You can walk behind this waterfall too, which makes it even cooler. You used to be able to drive behind it but you aren’t allowed anymore.
Directions
Take 276 back to Brevard and make a right on 64 W. Take that all the way through Cashiers and the falls will be about 11.5 from Cashiers on your right.
Dry Falls
A two-minute drive down the road will bring you to Dry Falls on the left. Park in the lot and either use the handicap accessible ramp to go to the overlook or in the warmer months head down to the falls and walk behind them and take photos to make everyone you know jealous.
These falls are huge and loud and incredible. If you are able to walk behind the falls, stay on the path and behind the railing and don’t walk out on the rocks. Waterfalls are dangerous and you don’t want to become a statistic.
If you’re hungry on your way out from Dry Falls, stop at Slabtown Pizza in Cashiers for delicious pizza.
Directions
Stay on 64 W for .8 miles and the falls and parking will be on your left.
Bonus: Lake Jocassee Overlook
I wasn’t expecting this driving to the last waterfall stop so it was a bonus for me. About three miles or so from Whitewater Falls is this overlook that will take your breath away.
You can see all of Lake Jocassee and marvel at the beauty of the gorge. Stop, take photos, have a snack. It’s worth it.
Directions
It’s on Route 130 from Cashiers to Whitewater Falls. You can’t miss it.
Whitewater Falls
The last waterfall on our list is the biggest waterfall east of the Rocky Mountains, standing at a whooping 411 feet tall, cascading down the mountainside in all it’s beautiful glory.
Whitewater Falls is just under 40 minutes from Dry Falls and is totally worth the trip. Even though I promised no hiking, don’t be mad about this quarter-mile paved trail to the falls. The sign says the falls are a half-mile from the parking lot but they mean round trip. The trail is very short and the view is amazing.
If you are ambitious and want to get out energy from the car ride, head to the stairs on the right, which will take you down to the viewing platform where you can see all of Whitewater Falls. It’s a nice little workout getting back up those 154 stairs.
Directions
From Dry Falls, go east on 64, hang a right at the center of Cashiers onto 107 South, and then make a left onto 130 North and follow signs to the falls. It’s about 25 miles total.
For other wheelchair accessible/short walk/roadside waterfalls around Western NC, see Blue Ridge Mountain Life Wheelchair Waterfalls and this list of roadside waterfalls.
For more waterfalls, see our Guide to the Southeast’s Best Waterfalls.
More Gorgerous Places: Less Hiking
Driving Tour: Scenic Overlooks & Spots Near Across the Upstate
Spring Real Estate Advice from Dan Hamilton
Expert real estate agent Dan Hamilton shares his advice—not just for home buyers and sellers this spring but also homeowners looking to hold onto their current home. Thank you to Hamilton & Co for sponsoring this article!
The spring real estate market is about to pick up fast! In fact, it already has.
(more…)41 Things To Put On Your Family’s 2024 Greenville, SC Bucket List
Are you working to fill your 2024 bucket list with the very best things to do in and near Greenville, SC? Kidding Around is here with some fabulous ideas to get your started, including outdoor adventures, free things to do, and things everyone in Greenville should do at least once. Make 2024 a year full of fun and adventure.
I am always looking for the next adventure and best things to do in and near Greenville, SC and really, there aren’t any shortage of them. I’ve done several of these but I plan to do lots more in 2024 and make wonderful memories with my family this year!
(more…)Winter Guide to Greenville, SC: Things to Do
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!
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.
Fun for Free!
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.
- Moonshine Mountain Snow Tubing
- Wolf Ridge Snow Tubing
- Ski Sapphire Valley Snow Tubing
- Black Bear Snow Tubing
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.
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
- Enjoy the hottest trend in hot cocoa this year! Here’s where you can find local Hot Chocolate Bombs in the Upstate!
- Wondering where you can get a more traditional cup of cocoa? Here are our reader’s favorite places in Greenville to get hot chocolate.
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
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?
Dan Hamilton’s Guide to Amenity-filled Greenville, SC Communities
Every day, new families are calling the Upstate home! Greenville is growing in popularity, and city developers, architects, and homebuilders are working hard to keep up with the demand. Last year, Dan Hamilton of Greenville’s top-rated real estate team, wrote a blog post diving into some of Greenville’s most amenity-filled communities, helping readers in search of all-inclusive lifestyles find their dream home.
In this updated post, Dan is sharing FIVE new communities with you (and not just new to you, but new to the Upstate!) that feature gorgeous homes AND amazing amenities packages.
If you see a community you like or are considering a move in the future, give Hamilton & Co. a call at 864-527-7685!
We do more than just buy and sell houses; we are experts on all things Upstate and love answering your questions.
Whether you’re a seasoned local or someone eyeing Greenville as your future home, I hope you’ll find this updated guide to amenity-filled communities helpful! – Dan
Riverstone
The Riverstone community by Ryan Homes knows how to do amenities! This new neighborhood is conveniently located and has just about everything you could want in terms of amenities.
The resort-style pool and clubhouse are perfect for relaxing on a hot summer day. Walking trails along the Reedy River make the perfect outing for you and your furry friend. Families will love the neighborhood’s riverfront pavilion and playground. Finally, you won’t be needing a gym membership! State-of-the-art gym equipment, tennis courts, and a recreational field are all available to Riverstone residents.
If you and your family are still looking for entertainment beyond Riverstone’s robust amenities, you’ll be happy to know that the community is only 10 minutes away from everything Downtown Simpsonville has to offer, and just 20 minutes from Downtown Greenville.
Riverstone is zoned for Greenbriar Elementary, Hughes Middle Academy, and Southside High.
Riverstone is a new community, and their beautiful craftsman and farmhouse style homes are still for sale starting from the mid-$300s. If you are interested in touring a model home in this community, I’d love to set up an appointment for you! Get in touch with me by filling out this form on my website or by calling my office directly at 864-527-7685.
Pine Valley
Pine Valley Retreat is another beautiful new-build community in the Upstate, and they have a new phase that just released! Located in the heart of Boiling Springs, residents have everything they need at their fingertips, including quick access to I-85.
Our clients who have purchased in this community were impressed with both the style of home and the amenities package. Pine Valley residents enjoy access to a beautiful amenity center with a pool, clubhouse, playground, pickleball court and more!
Psst…if you’re looking for communities with pickleball courts in particular, check out my latest blog post where I share court locations across the Upstate!
Families in Pine Valley are zoned for Sugar Ridge Elementary School, Boiling Springs Middle School, and Boiling Springs High School.
Homes in Pine Valley’s newest phase begin in the low-$300s. Builder D.R. Horton offers multiple floor plans and price points to make the homebuying process simple and customizable! If you are interested in learning more about this community or in setting up a tour, let’s get in touch!
Brookside Farms
Another popular D.R. Horton community, Brookside Farms offers residents spectacular views of both the Blue Ridge Mountains and Paris Mountain. Plus, this community is less than 10 minutes away from charming Downtown Greer.
In addition to TWO pools and a playground, Brookside Farms features winding nature trails and a peaceful pavilion for relaxing on a sunny day. Active residents will love the neighborhood’s bocce ball and pickleball courts!
Looking for entertainment outside your neighborhood? Brookside Farms’ proximity to Downtown Greer means you’ll have access to some of the Upstate’s most popular shopping, dining, and local entertainment.
In addition to various private and charter school options, families in Brookside Farms have the choice to send their children to Crestview Elementary School, Greer Middle School, and Greer High School.
Homes in this sought-after community are just starting to be built, and begin in the low-$300s. Floorplan, finishes, square-footage – you name it, you customize it at this stage of the homebuilding process! If you are interested in learning more about Brookside Farms, let’s connect! I’d love to get you set up with a tour of the community.
O’Neal Village
A self-proclaimed “close-knit family” in Greer, O’Neal Village is a mixed-use community featuring a variety of single family homes, townhomes, retail space and more!
Nestled in the foothills, O’Neal is less than 15 minutes from Downtown Greer and minutes from beautiful Lake Robinson.
O’Neal was built with nature in mind, and the community’s outdoor-focused approach has resulted in a host of convenient amenities for its residents.
Sports enthusiasts will enjoy the neighborhood basketball court and fitness center. The Wicker Park, community garden, and outdoor amphitheater are all enjoyed by the community. A fenced-in dog park provides the perfect environment for your furry friends to run wild.
The Village Square at O’Neal Village features a host of local businesses including Barista Alley, House 509 Bistro & Wine Bar, Haven Ridge Church, Little Me Academy, and more – all within walking distance of your home!
Skyland Elementary, Blue Ridge Middle School, and Greer High School, along with a variety of private and charter options, are available to O’Neal residents. Plus, Little Me Academy is a fantastic preschool option within the O’Neal community!
O’Neal Village is constructed by a handful of local builders and is currently in Phase IV of its development. Homes range in both size and style from single family homes to townhomes, with prices ranging from $190,000 to the mid $400,000s.
A number of our clients at Hamilton & Company have decided to call O’Neal home. If you would like to learn more about the community or connect with me for a tour, contact me directly at 864-527-7685 or fill out the form on my website.
Update: Hartness Community
I’ve previously shared about Hartness, but wanted to cover it again as it’s changed a lot in the last year! It has been in development for over a decade, and this amenity-rich community has an emphasis on getting outdoors.
Hartness offers a variety of custom home layouts of many sizes from townhome up to spacious estate.You can even rent in the Hartness Community!
Hartness offers its residents amenities comparable to other Upstate communities including tennis courts, green spaces, a playground and basketball courts. The community exists alongside a 150-acre Nature Preserve through which 15 miles of biking and walking trails run. Residents have access to a beautiful, serene lake and paddleboards and kayaks to explore it with.
The Village Center at Harness is home to The One5 Restaurant, Spa H, Hotel Hartness, Patterson Kitchen + Bar, and more.
When you do choose to venture beyond all of the conveniences Hartness offers, you’ll find yourself just 10 minutes from Five Forks shopping and dining and 20 minutes from Downtown Greenville.
Children in Hartness often attend Oakview Elementary, Northwood Middle, and Eastside High School.
If you are interested in learning more about building a custom home in Hartness or would like to be notified when a home goes on sale, contact me directly at 864-527-7685 or fill out the form on my website.
Whether you are new to Greenville or have lived here your whole life, I hope this guide has been helpful!
The neighborhoods highlighted in this guide are just a few of hundreds across the Upstate. If you are interested in a list of communities personalized to your interests, budget, and needs, reach out to our team at 864-527-7685. From local lender recommendations, Greenville tours, and free home shopping tools, we go above and beyond to provide our friends and clients with the tools they need to call Greenville home.
