Archive for the ‘Date Night’ Category

12 Fall Date Ideas to Kick Off the Season in Upstate South Carolina

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Are you looking for fall date ideas near Greenville, SC? If you’re hoping for a date that represents the season, you’ve come to the right place.

Dates are fun and necessary for healthy relationships. Now that the temperatures are dropping, it’s time for some festive, fall-themed dates. Give them a try for family date activities, daddy and daughter/son dates, mother and son/daughter dates, romantic couple dates, or any combination thereof.

Footbridge surrounded by colorful fall leaves

Looking for more fun things to do this fall in the Upstate? Don’t miss our Ultimate Guide to Fall in Greenville and Spartanburg.

Pumpkin Spice Latte (PSL) Date

Is anything more fall than the delicious aroma and taste of a pumpkin spice latte? Grab frothy, steaming cups of fall in liquid form, turn off all electronics, and talk until the drinks are gone. You can visit the national chain that made the PSL famous or check out one of the Upstate’s many independent coffeehouses to sample their take on the recipe.

Apple Date

Apple picking is fun. There are many great orchards in the Upstate and within a short drive that allow guests to pick their own apples. If you’re unable (or unwilling) to do the hard labor, at least find a roadside stand offering the delicious fall fruit and support our local farmers.

Not sure where to go? Read our guide to U-Pick Apple Orchards Around the Upstate. If apple cider donuts are more your speed, you could also partake in our Apple Cider Donut Tour. Pro tip: Jeter Mountain Farm’s Cider Co. has six hard ciders on tap and you can order them as a flight — definitely worth doing if you love hard cider.

Jeter Mountain wagon

Fall Leaves Date

One of the best things about living in the Upstate is the changing of seasons. You can take a day trip up to the mountains to view the artistry in expanse, or just a drive around town to see festive fall color.

Take some pictures of the changing trees and landscape, and make sure you get a few selfies with the colorful backdrop. Pick your favorite leaf to bring home and display it in your scrapbook alongside your pictures of the day.

🍂 See our list of Fall Leaves Near Greenville.

Watch the Sunset

Find a place to watch the sunset. Or, if you’re an early riser, you can enjoy a sunrise! Check out this list of places near the Upstate to view the sunrise or sunset.

Farmers Market Date

Visit one of our local farmers’ markets such as the Hub City Farmers’ Market in Spartanburg and enjoy the bounty of the fall harvest. The Saturday market runs from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m., April through November, at Northside Harvest Park at 498 Howard St. There’s also a downtown pop-up on Morgan Square on second Sundays, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., May through October. Pick up fresh, local ingredients and make an entire meal from nothing but your finds. Be sure to try a new produce or recipe.

Haunted House Date

If your speed is more adventurous and you both love haunted houses, try Madworld Haunted Attraction, just outside Greenville in Piedmont. You can scream your heads off together, throw axes, play carnival games, compete at mini golf, and come home with lots of great fodder for nightmares.

Madworld’s 2026 season kicked off on September 4. Nights fill up fast as Halloween gets closer, so check the schedule on madworldattractions.com before you go.

Madworld Haunted Attraction
Madworld Haunted Attraction

Fall Festival Date

Go as a couple or take the whole family to one of the many fall festivals near Greenville. These gatherings celebrate apples, pumpkins, harvests, and all the other wonderful things that the fall months offer.

The wonderful thing about fall festivals in and around Greenville is that they are outdoors (for the most part) so they’re a good opportunity for your kids to be loud or run around.

Denver Downs Farm red barn

Dinner and a Movie Date

Let a movie and a meal whisk you away for the evening! Try one of our Top Date Night Restaurants in Downtown Greenville, then go see a movie on the big screen. Prefer a more in-home date night? Those are fun, too!

You can grab pastrami sandwiches from your favorite deli and cue up When Harry Met Sally or take in My Big Fat Greek Wedding while you dine on some Greek food; or get a sack of tacos from your favorite Mexican restaurant and enjoy the movie Frida.

Escape Room Date

Teamwork makes the dream work! See if you and your spouse have what it takes to make it out of a local escape room. In 60 minutes or less, you must figure out how to escape a themed room using clues to solve a mystery.

Themes at one of our favorite escape rooms include Dr. Fratelli’s Cabin, The Starlight Motel, and Classified: Operation Nine Lives. We like this date option because it’s always thrilling and unique. It’s also a fun indoor option when the temperatures start to drop.

Escape room

Got some time for a day trip? Head down to Columbia for Escape Productions’ Spy Game. It’s a unique take on the escape room-like puzzles that will have you outside investigating real places in Columbia. Read our review below.

Spy Game in Columbia, SC

Check out our Spy Game experience!

Bonfire Date

If at all possible, take firewood, kindling, and matches and have a real, flaming, crackling, outdoor bonfire because it is one of life’s purest pleasures. Graham crackers, marshmallows, chocolate, and the appropriate tools to roast them into s’mores only add to the festive fall experience. However, if you do not have a safe place outdoors to set the blaze, never fear. Netflix, Hulu, and YouTube all offer lovely video substitutions you can watch from the comfort of your living room while you microwave yourself a s’more!

Thankful List Date

Fall reminds us to be thankful for the things we may take for granted during the rest of the year. Pick up your favorite restaurant take-out for a romantic picnic at a local garden or a candle-lit dinner at home. Sit together and make a list of what you’re each thankful for this year.

Be bold in the number of thanksgivings you ponder and write. I bet you can come up with 100 things for which you are thankful if you silence your phones and enjoy a dessert. When you get home, hang the list on the fridge, or better yet, frame it.

Pumpkin Date

Pumpkins mean fall, and fall means pumpkins! There are so many things you can do on a pumpkin-themed date. You can pick your own pumpkins, carve pumpkins, paint pumpkins, roast pumpkin seeds, bake pumpkin pie, try pumpkin ice cream, or all of the above and more in one day!

See how many pumpkin-themed activities you can fit into your date. If you carve or paint your pumpkins, have a contest and ask your social media friends to vote for their favorite. Here’s a list of local pumpkin patches to get you started.

Sunflowers in front of a pumpkin patch with white and orange pumpkins.

Fall is a wonderful time to slow down and spend time with those you most love, and the Upstate is the perfect place to take advantage of all that fall has to offer. Enjoy your dates!


Guide to Fall in Greenville, SC

Don’t miss our full Fall Guide to Greenville with lots of ideas for fun things to do.

7+ Destinations that make a Perfect Day Trip for Couples

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Are you looking for fun day trips for couples? In this busy world, it is important for couples to spend quality time together, without the kids. And when a date night just won’t cut it, a day trip may be exactly what the doctor ordered.

Local mom Anna put together this list of places perfect for any couple to escape to when they need to reconnect. And then the Kidding Around Team chimed in with a few favorites of their own. Whether you want to head north to the mountains or south to the water, this list has something for you!

Now that school’s in session, how about some parent time for Mom and Dad? In this list, we attempted to put together some destinations outside of Greenville but only about a 2 hour drive or so. Consider this the start of a new tradition in your household and a chance to spend some quality time with your significant other.

Although this requires some advanced planning such as booking a babysitter ahead or coordinating afterschool pick-ups, once you have it all lined up, it will truly be worth it. We believe parents deserve some kind of pampering and fun on their own. We’re pretty sure once you get started, you can come up with your own. Do share with us, if you find some good ones!

Mountain Hike & Small-Town Charm: Catawba Falls & Black Mountain

If you want to combine fresh mountain air with small-town dining and shopping, head up to Catawba Falls in Old Fort, NC—just under an hour and 40 minutes north of Greenville. This moderate hike features a long, cascading waterfall where you actually get to walk alongside the water for a good stretch, complete with scenic overlooks, bridge crossings near old mill ruins, and an observation tower.

Catawba Falls

After your hike, drive less than 20 minutes into downtown Black Mountain for a relaxed afternoon together. Grab a late outdoor lunch and cocktails at The Pure and Proper, pick up fresh bread to-go from Nutmeg Black Mountain bakery, and spend some time window shopping around the Town Square or browsing glass art at the North Carolina Glass Center.

Read all about planning your loop hike, trail tips, and date-day recommendations in our Catawba Falls and Black Mountain review.

Catawba Falls Trailhead
3074 Catawba River Road, Old Fort, NC 28762
Open daily, sunrise to sunset (large parking lot; arrive early on weekends)
Free admission

Romantic Asheville

A mountain city, Asheville is teeming with activities for day-trippers filled with glorious views of the Blue Ridge Mountain. Our favorite of course is the Biltmore Estate which has restaurants and cafes on site as you take a break from viewing the vast property. We recommend dining at the stables, moderately priced, and everything they serve is sourced from the farms within the property. Try to arrive by 10 am so you have enough time for lunch and start heading back by 4 pm in time for dinner with the kiddies.

Grove Park Inn National Gingerbread Contest

Our second choice for Asheville is the The Omni Grove Park Inn. A historic resort built in 1913, the hotel was designed in the Arts and Crafts tradition by Edwin Wiley Grove, a pharmaceutical manufacturer and his son-in-law Fred Seely. The hotel was resold in 1955, but most of the original design has been retained. It boasts one of the grandest lobbies we’ve seen next to the Biltmore mansion flanked by the biggest 12-foot fireplaces. Scattered all around the lobby is a sampling of authentic and inspired mission furniture.

Stunning views can be soaked in at the in the beautiful views without having to pay the steep room prices. For a fancy lunch, book a date at the Sunset Terrace or admire the same views from the more casual, dine at the Great Hall Bar.

For something to do, in addition to exploring the resort property, we highly recommend either an afternoon at their luxurious spa – which the resort says was voted one of the “Top Resort Spas in the U.S.” by Condé Nast Traveler – or visiting the Grovewood Village. Here you will find probably the one of the best Antique Car Museums in our part of the country, see the Biltmore Homespun Museum, walk thru the sculpture garden and shop for special souvenirs at the Gallery of the Mountains.

Biltmore Estate Asheville NC daytrip

Biltmore Estate
One Lodge Street, Asheville, NC
Biltmore Estate Website
800.411.3812

The Omni Grove Park Inn & Spa
290 Macon Avenue, Asheville, NC 28804
800.438.5000
The Omni Grove Park Inn Website

Lake Murray in Chapin

If you love being close to the water but can’t do the long drive to the coast,  Lake Murray, a water reservoir with about 500 miles of shoreline, is a great easy escape. Walk across Lake Murray Dam, rent a motorboat to explore the waterways, go fishing or hit the beach on the Lexington side. Feeling romantic, visit the Love Lock Bridge, clip a padlock to the fence and proclaim your undying love by throwing away the key. Paris may have lost their love lock bridge in Pont des Arts due to tough love by local police, but for now, Lake Murray remains a haven for romantics.

One important change before you load the car: Dominion Energy now requires every visitor to the beach and recreation area on the Lexington side of the dam to reserve a $5 day pass in advance online, and cash is no longer accepted at the entry gate. The park also runs on a season – for 2026 it is open April 1 through Labor Day, September 7 – so save this one for spring and summer.

Suggested places for lakeside dining: Rusty Anchor Restaurant for some great seafood and surf and turf combinations, Frayed Knot Bar & Grill for more dining options and finally Liberty Tap Room on the lake for some pizzas and light brews.

Lake Murray Public Park, Lexington side
1797 North Lake Drive, Lexington
2026 season: April 1 through Labor Day, September 7
Weekdays, 11 am – 8 pm
Weekends & holidays, 10 am – 8 pm
$5 per vehicle, per day – day passes must be reserved in advance online
No lifeguards on duty. Pets and alcohol are prohibited.
Lake Murray Public Park Website & Reservations

Cider and Orchard Views: Appalachian Ridge in Hendersonville, NC

If a two-hour drive feels like a stretch, point the car toward Hendersonville instead. Appalachian Ridge Artisan Cidery is an orchard-based cidery that makes its ciders and spirits using what they call a “Cider as Wine” approach, letting layers of apple flavor develop over time. Sip a sparkling tasting or a glass out on the deck overlooking the orchard, or settle inside the antique barn – an apple barn from the 1920s that took two years to renovate and preserve. Food trucks and live music turn up on their calendar regularly, so it is easy to stretch a tasting into a whole relaxed afternoon. Plus, the Hendersonville area is full of fun things to do and see.

Read all about it in our Appalachian Ridge Cidery review.

Appalachian Ridge Artisan Cidery couple

Appalachian Ridge Artisan Cidery
749 Chestnut Gap Road, Hendersonville, NC 28792
Open four days a week, Thursday through Sunday
Sunday & Thursday, 12 pm – 6 pm
Friday & Saturday, 12 pm – 7 pm
828.685.4002
Appalachian Ridge Artisan Cidery Website

Vineyards Tour in Yadkin Valley

A trip to Raffaldini Vineyards will transport you to the Italian countryside and a great early foray into the Yadkin Valley wine trail. One could easily design a weekend escape around this destination with the numerous vineyards around the valley. Tour their estate grounds and learn about how they use Appasimento, an Italian method for incorporating dehydrated grapes into wine. As for dining, we highly recommend packing a lunch that pairs well with wine or grab some light sandwiches and nibbles from their commissary. They offer a full calendar of events you can attend on their website here.

Raffaldini Vineyards
450 Groce Road, Ronda, NC
Monday, Wednesday – Saturday, 11 am – 5 pm
Sunday 12 pm – 5 pm
Closed Tuesdays
336.835.9463
Raffaldini Vineyards Website

Nature Day Trip: Congaree National Park

The perfect day trip for more adventure driven couples, Congaree National Park, is a perfect Fall hike since it will be less buggy and the weather will be cooler. South Carolina’s very own National Park, the Congaree National Park is filled with such unique natural wonders that we are so glad it received its official designation in 2003. The park preserves the largest tract of old growth bottomland hardwood forest left in the United States! Allot a half-day or full day to explore the forest

Make sure to bring your camera, lots of water, bug spray and wander through dramatic marshland with a self-guided boardwalk tour. Be on the lookout for the unique Bald Cypress trees and their knobby “knees” scattered throughout the forest. If you are an avid kayaker, this would be the place, just make sure call ahead to check water conditions and mosquito meter! Bring your own or rent canoes and kayaks in the Columbia area. Picnics are the order of the day for this trip, but there are also lots of local BBQ places around the park if you get hungry.

Congaree National Park
100 National Park Road, Hopkins
Congaree National Park is open 24 hours a day year round. The Harry Hampton Visitor Center is open 7 days a week, 9 am – 5 pm.
803.776.4396
Congaree National Park Website

For Foodie and History Buffs: Athens, Georgia

Athens is a college town steeped in history with a vibrant contemporary music and restaurant scene. Our favorite restaurants to try are the high-end National, hearty brunch at Mama’s Boy or a eat by the tracks and have some good ol’ BBQ at Pulaski Heights BBQ. For things to do, Athens is the gateway to Georgia’s Antebellum Trail and you will have lots of options to view house museums, heritage sites and historical districts.

Your first stop should be to get a map at the Athens Georgia Welcome Center located in the Church-Waddel-Brumby House Museum. If you can get away for a weekend, enjoy some live music at Georgia Theater, 40 Watt or at the Furnace. Athens is also known as the place that launched the careers of R.E.M. and the B-52’s, but we’re pretty sure you already knew that!

Historic Athens Welcome Center
280 E Dougherty Street, Athens, GA
Monday – Sunday, 10 am – 5 pm
706.353.1820
Historic Athens Welcome Center Website

Bonus: Julep Farms in Dillard, GA

With a delicious restaurant featuring American cuisine and a beautiful farm setting, you can spend the whole day here. Feed the animals, play some farm games, and don’t forget the Mint Julep cocktail.

Read all about it in our Julep Farms review.

Julep Farms Website
Julep Farms Instagram
500 Hwy 246, Dillard, GA 30537
Restaurant, market, and shop hours vary by day and by season – check their website before you go.

Do you have a day trip idea to add to our list?

Guide to Date Night in Greenville, SC

Looking for more fun date night ideas in Greenville, SC? Read our Ultimate Date Night Guide to Greenville.

Places to travel in the United States

Want to venture a little further from home? Visit our travel page – it is loaded with inspiration!

Salsa Dancing: Greenville, SC Has The Vibes Of South Beach This Summer

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Are you looking to have a fantastic time salsa dancing in Greenville, SC? If you love salsa dancing and wish you could escape to the exotic nightlife of South Florida, you can for a few hours right here in Greenville! Whether you are looking for an escape from the kids in the form of a fun date night or a family date night including the kids– we’ve got a free event you have to check out: Salsa at Sunset (remaining 2026 dates are July 24th and August 28th). See below for details and tips and tricks for the event.

Summer date night ideas in Greenville, South Carolina

Planning a fun date night?

Check out our guide to Unforgettable Date Ideas in the Summer Near Greenville, SC!

Embrace Salsa Dancing: Greenville, SC Dancers Will Love Salsa at Sunset

The Salsa at Sunset event sponsored by Upstate International & Pura Alegria dance company will get you as close as you’re going to get to Calle Ocho in Miami without traveling for half a day.

This free event is held during the summer months once a month in June, July, and August. An hour-long complimentary salsa dance lesson starts at 6:15 pm and the live music starts at 7 pm plays until 10 pm. The space is beautiful and you can grab cookies from Insomnia or ice cream at Jeni’s right there. So fun.

If there were a way to somehow import the smell of ocean air and fill the airspace in front of the Peace Center with it, you’d never know that you were in the foothills of South Carolina and not Miami.

Salsa at Sunset in downtown Greenville, South Carolina

Grab your preferred dance partner and head downtown. I couldn’t believe how many people were there dancing! Every generation was represented on the dance floor, older couples, young couples, parents on a much-needed escape & families with their little ones in tow.

The bar at CAMP is open and the live music will keep you moving. This event is family and stroller-friendly. I strongly suggest bringing an ample supply of ice water for your entire dance troupe, because you’ll need it after several hours of salsa dancing.

Camperdown Plaza
Main St and Broad St, Greenville

Salsa at Sunset 2026 Dates

  • May 22nd, 2026
  • June 26th, 2026
  • July 24th, 2026
  • August 28th, 2026

How To Turn This Free Event Into The Ultimate Date Night

Dressing For The Occasion

For women:
A shoe with a smooth bottom and a heel not more than two inches is preferable (tennis shoes aren’t the best because they stick to the floor but I’ve seen women wear them and do fine). If you think Salsa dancing is something you’ll want to do often, then invest in a pair of salsa shoes. You’ll look like you just got back from Dancing With The Stars, and it will give you an extra boost of confidence on the dance floor. The Exotic Salsa shoe site is a great place to start looking.

Dresses allow you to move freely and are a good choice, just be sure to wear spandex shorts underneath if you plan to really show off your moves on the dance floor. Whatever you wear, make sure it’s lightweight and comfortable because you’ll be moving around a lot in the summer heat.

For men:
Shoes with smooth bottoms are ideal as well. This isn’t the place to be sporting those Jordans. If you want to dress the part and impress your date choose linen or lightweight pants, paired with a button-up shirt. A Guayabera is what you’ll probably see on the serious salsa dancers in the crowd.

Practice Makes Perfect

Can’t make it to a practice event? Just tell Alexa to play anything Celia Cruz, Tito Puente, Hector Lavoe, and Fania All-Stars, then follow what your hips tell you to do.
Don’t worry.
Hips don’t Lie.

Kidding Around Greenville events calendar for Greenville, SC

To learn more about this event and others in the Upstate, check out the Kidding Around Event Calendar

Day Trips Ideas for Couples: Plan the Perfect Day for You and Your Numero Uno this Summer

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Thinking about a couple’s day trip somewhere near Greenville, SC?
If you want to plan a dreamy day trip with your significant other this summer, we have many ideas for couples. We have put together a whole list of romantic day trip ideas! Whether you want to do something romantic, visit a new town, or have some adventure, our list will help you plan the perfect day trip.

Day trip ideas for couples near Greenville, SC.

Everyone needs some help enjoying adulting sometimes.

Check out our Ultimate Grown Up’s Guide to Greenville, SC

Frose from Juice Box at Gather GVL

Day Trip Ideas for Couples Who Love the Outdoors

In Greenville, SC

Being romantic while doing outdoor activities is naturally easy and super budget-friendly. It’s pretty surreal for us when are walking around downtown without our kids in tow, we are actually able to stop and smell the flowers at Falls Park.

Have you been to Cancer Survivors Park? This park would be the perfect spot to enjoy a picnic with your sweetie! They are lots of open spaces, gorgeous gardens in bloom, and interesting statues to look at while feeding your relationship needs. You can also find dozens of gorgeous gardens throughout the Greenville area that make for a relaxing date.

Or how about a picnic at Paris Mountain, a bike ride thru the Lake Conestee Nature Park or a stroll along my personal favorite, the Swamp Rabbit Trail. You can even hit the hiking trails together or head to one of the nearby SC state parks for the day.

Cancer Survivors Park in Greenville, SC.
Cancer Survivors Park, Greenville, SC

Drive a little further: Day Trips Ideas for Outdoorsy Couples A Few Hours From Greenville

KAG has some dedicated outdoorsy folks on staff, providing us with some great reviews of kayaking and waterfall viewing. Have you been to Sapphire Valley? Kristina swears this is the land of waterfalls!

And for even more adventure, we have our favorite swimming holes, places to go tubing, and places to go fishing. So pack a picnic, load up the car, and head out to take in some natural beauty with your significant other!

If you’re wanting to try out something romantic, Eden Farms in Pickens County offers trail horseback riding through the forest.

You should also check out the Sunflower Festival each June at Denver Downs and pair that with a day trip to Clemson, SC. There, you can visit the SC Botanical Garden and the Bob Campbell Geology Museum.

Maybe you’re wanting to spend the day kayaking and adventuring through Congaree National Park near Columbia, SC? What could be more magical?

Waterfall at Station Cove Falls in Walhalla, South Carolina.

Nature is naturally romantic!

Check out our guide to waterfalls near Greenville, SC where you can enjoy the view with your significant other.

Foodie and Art Day Dates

In Greenville, SC

We love our city and have a hard time keeping up with all the new restaurants in town! Now’s your chance to try that place you’ve been wanting to go to. How about that popular BBQ place in town?

Or, you can eat at one of the cool restaurants in West Village of Greenville and combine it with artist studio visits at Greenville Center for Creative Arts or art gallery visit at Art & Light Gallery?

Why not grab some delicious bar food while you catch some live music together and dance the night away?

Have someone else plan your date, try a guided tour while enjoying delicious food by Chef’s Table Culinary Tour and yes you need a day for the food tour!

Table set for Greenville's Culinary Tour
Food Tour with Chef’s Table Culinary Tour

Drive a little further: Foodie Day Trip Dates Within a Couple of Hours of Greenville, SC

Nothing beats a day trip for couples that involves delicious food. More food tours to check out on our list are Columbia’s COLA and Asheville Food Tours.

For some amazing vistas while dining, check out Restaurant 17 at Traveler’s Rest, lunch at the world-class Grove Park Inn in Asheville (be sure to check out their couples massage packages as well), or wine tasting at Victoria Valley Vineyards. We did this after a short hike at Table Rock, and it was a nice cap to our active day. Don’t forget to make reservations and request a table with a view.

Be a Tourist on Your Day Out

In Greenville

There’s nothing like being a tourist in your own town and looking at it with fresh eyes. How about a staycation? Or a day spent exploring Travelers Rest? Lots of creative dining and unique spots to see.

Not that we need to highlight it some more, but Greenville is pretty romantic! See our list of romantic dates and get to planning.

Romantic dates in Greenville, SC

Drive a little further

If you’re looking for day trip ideas for couples that have a tourist vibe, there are plenty of options! Have you checked out the KAG travel page? It’s full of great ideas! Near the Upstate are towns waiting to be visited, antique shops to browse, bookstores to see, and historic sites to discover. 

You’ll find all that and more in towns such as Fountain Inn, Flat Rock, Hendersonville, and Asheville. After all, the Biltmore Estate makes the ultimate day trip when a little romance is needed! You can even head over to the historic district of Downtown Asheville for lunch afterward.

Maybe you want to experience romance in a German-style village? Grab your Bierkrug and head to Helen, GA! Who knows, maybe your day trip will turn into an overnight trip at a romantic bed and breakfast.

The front of Biltmore in Asheville, NC
Biltmore Estate, Asheville, NC

Outings for the young at heart

Finally, sometimes we want to take a break from adulting and just want to relax and see a movie or play games and be the ones to claim and get the prizes!

In Greenville

Summer is a great time for a matinee movie. You could even take in an outdoor movie and bring along a picnic! Have you checked out the amusement center Spare Time? It would make the perfect post-movie spot! Main Event is also close by, and challenging each other at some arcade games is fun.

It may be pretty hot for a day on the golf course, but you can also stay cool while engaging in friendly competition at Top Golf Greenville.

If you’re looking for a local adventure, Flying Rabbit Adventures in Greenville is an awesome ropes course that would make a fantastic date idea.

Free outdoor movies near Greenville, SC

Cozy up to your significant other for an outdoor movie this summer near Greenville, SC!

Drive a little further

Looking for something unique, how about trying out the Appalachian Pinball Museum in Hendersonville? Or if you’re really adventurous, spend a day at Carowinds in Charlotte. There is also the US National Whitewater Center in Charlotte that offers rafting, ziplining, and a ton of other outdoor sports that you can enjoy together. They regularly have live music, so pair that with your day trip date for some lovely quality time.

What is your favorite day trip to take with your significant other?

Looking for more day trip ideas?

KA Ultimate Guide to Day Trips Near Greenville, SC

Day Trips near Greenville, SC

Romantic Day Trip Ideas Near Greenville, SC

Sometimes, a romantic day trip is in the cards for you and your partner. These romantic day trip ideas are exciting, relaxing, and just plain fun!


10+ Free Dates Near Greenville, SC to Try This Summer (2026)

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Looking for a free date night near Greenville, SC?
Budget dates in Greenville are totally possible. We get that parents don’t always have the money for extravagant date nights, but still want to get away and reconnect away from the kids. You don’t need a lot of money to do that! In fact, there are lots of dates that are totally free.

If you can find a friend, grandparent, or other family member to watch the kids, you don’t even have to pay for a sitter.


Questions About Free Date Nights Near Greenville, SC

What are some free date ideas in Greenville, SC?
Some of the best free date ideas near Greenville include visiting Falls Park, hiking local trails, attending outdoor movies or concerts, touring murals, exploring gardens, and walking through art galleries during First Fridays.

Catawba Falls Date Hike

Are there free outdoor activities for couples near Greenville?
Yes! Couples can enjoy free outdoor activities like hiking, biking the Swamp Rabbit Trail, swimming at natural swimming holes, visiting waterfalls, strolling through gardens, or watching Shakespeare in Falls Park during the summer.

Where can couples go for a cheap or free date night near Greenville?
Greenville offers plenty of budget-friendly date night options including free concerts, museum visits, mini golf at McPherson Park, volunteer opportunities, and scenic parks perfect for a picnic or sunset walk.


Free Summer Date Ideas Near Greenville, SC

Go Swimming

Grab your bathing suit, towel, and map and head out to any one of these natural swimming holes for a few hours away. Soak up the sun, and enjoy the cool mountain waters that surround Greenville.

Sliding Rock Falls, Cashiers, NC
Sliding Rock in Cashiers, NC

Help Others

Volunteering is a great way to learn how to be grateful for what we have, and who we have in our lives. By volunteering together as a couple, you can enjoy a shared experience that will not only bring you closer but positively touch the lives of others. Here are several places to volunteer in the area.

Go Miniature Golfing

You can mini-golf for free at McPherson Park in Greenville. Just bring your own putter and balls (we’ve seen them for cheap at local thrift shops).

McPherson Park Greenville, SC mini golf
McPherson Park

See an Outdoor Movie

Greenville has lot of places to see free movies outside during the summer. Bring a blanket and food, and enjoy the big screen.

Bike Around Town

If you have a bike, use it. There are many trails in the area where you can ride your bikes together, and they’re all free.

Stroll Through a Garden

Take a short trip up to Hendersonville, NC, and visit the Fairy Trail at Bullington Gardens. Or, head to the SC Botanical Gardens in Clemson. They’re beautiful and a wonderful place to walk together. For a more local option, visit Hatcher Gardens in Spartanburg.

Hatcher Gardens
Hatcher Garden in Spartanburg, SC

Be a Tourist

Falls Park in Greenville is probably the most iconic and recognizable part of town. There are plenty of benches and swings and trails in the park to enjoy during a stroll. Take the time to check it all out, just like the tourists do. Bring a picnic and extend that date a bit longer.

Liberty Bridge at Falls Park
Liberty Bridge at Falls Park

Tour Local Murals

Love art? Take a driving tour of local murals around town. Kick it up a notch with your significant other, and bring along some snacks and/or chocolate.

Enjoy a Free Concert

Live music is back! Several local venues offer free concerts over the summer.

Learn About History

I personally love history, and strolling through a battlefield is actually my idea of an interesting time. If you and your date are history buffs, try the Kings Mountain Battlefield Trail, a 1.5-mile paved path that takes you through the Revolutionary War battle on October 7, 1780.

Get Cultured

First Fridays in Greenville are all about art. You can tour area art galleries for free, and many places serve complimentary adult beverages. Win-win. And the Greenville County Museum of Art houses some amazing exhibits/ Admission is free.

Take a Hike

There is no shortage of hiking trails in and near the Upstate, including several with waterfalls and swimming holes. They’re perfect for summer. Lots of parks in the area are free to enter, so grab your partner, a picnic lunch, and water, and have an adventure together.

One of Maria’s favorites is Catawba Falls near Black Mountain, NC.

Learn About History

The annual Chautauqua Festival features historical figures telling their stories in front of a live audience. It’s a popular and fun way to experience history, all for free. The festival is in June and features over 25 live shows.

Enjoy Some Shakespeare

From May 21 – July 25, 2026, you can check out the free Upstate Shakespeare Festival in Falls Park. Shows begin at 7:00 pm and run Thursday through Sunday each week. Arrive early to get a spot!

Go Dancing

During the summer months you can do Salsa at Sunset at Camperdown Plaza features beginner-friendly salsa lessons, live Latin music, and a fun, welcoming atmosphere that makes it easy to step out of your routine and onto the dance floor. Whether you’re seasoned dancers or just looking to laugh and learn something new together, this lively evening is a great way to connect while enjoying Greenville’s summer vibes.

Do you have a free date night idea to add to our list?

Guide to Date Night in Greenville, SC

Looking for even more date night ideas?

Here’s your ultimate date night guide to Greenville, SC.

Cat’s Paw Winery in Blacksburg, SC is Quirky, Cozy, and Surprisingly Family-Friendly

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Cat’s Paw Winery in Blacksburg, SC is the only winery in Cherokee County, and it might be one of the most family-friendly wineries in the Upstate. We’re breaking down what the wine flights cost, what your kids can do while you sip, and whether it’s worth the drive from Greenville.

I’m a wine fan and a cat person, so when I heard about a cat-themed winery in Blacksburg, SC, I had to check it out. And let me say: Cat’s Paw Winery is a cute little spot that’s cozy, quirky, and surprisingly family-friendly. It’s the kind of place where parents can actually relax with a wine flight while the kids play outside. And yes, there are cats everywhere. Well, cat decor everywhere. There’s artwork of cats enjoying wine. A logo of a cat drinking from a wine bottle. It is delightful.

Quick Facts: Cat’s Paw Winery

  • Location: 210 E Cherokee St, Blacksburg, SC 29702
  • Hours: Wednesday to Saturday, 12 pm to 8 pm
  • Phone: 864-987-8618
  • Wine flight: $20 (five 2 oz pours of your choice)
  • Kid-friendly? Yes! Train playground outside for ages 2 to 5, plus non-alcoholic rainbow slushies
  • Dogs: Well-behaved dogs welcome on the patio
  • Reservations: Not required; call ahead for groups of 6+
  • Website: catspawwinery.com

What Makes Cat’s Paw So Charming

Cat’s Paw Winery was founded in 2016 by John Burks in Rock Hill, SC. He started making wine for friends and family, and they loved it so much they talked him into opening a winery. Good call, because Cat’s Paw earned the #1 ranking in South Carolina from Choice Wineries. In 2025, the Brinson Family acquired the winery and moved it to 210 E Cherokee Street in Blacksburg, right in the heart of Cherokee County.

The cat theme is woven into everything, and it’s genuinely charming rather than cheesy. Cat artwork lines the walls. The wine names lean into the theme (Purrr-Fectly Peach, anyone?). Even the pour sizes have cat names: a “Float the Cat” is a 6 oz glass, and a “Drown the Cat” is a 9 oz pour. They also display info about adoptable cats from a local animal shelter, which is one of those small touches that makes a place feel like it has real heart.

The vibe is relaxed and welcoming. You can sit at the bar, grab a table inside, or head out to the patio. There’s a retail area with wine-inspired gifts, local goods, and Cat’s Paw merchandise. I left with a souvenir wine glass of featuring a cat drinking from a bottle of wine, because of course I did.

The Wine Menu (and That Rum Tum Tuggler)

Cat’s Paw offers 18 varieties of whites and reds, all made in true small-batch craftsman style. Their wines are made with natural well water and real fruit juices, with only two additives and no extra tannins or sulfites. That means you can sip without worrying about a wine headache the next morning. They import their juice from all over and do all the fermenting, bottling, and labeling on site.

I opted for the five-sample wine flight, which is $20 and lets you choose any five wines from the menu with a 2 oz pour of each. It’s a great way to try the range from sweet to dry. My bartender Micayla was wonderful and guided me through the selections. The owner, Matt, chatted with us as well and offered food recommendations.

Sweet Wines Worth Trying

  • Coconut Citrus Chardonnay: Lime and mandarin orange with coconut sweetness. Best served chilled.
  • Watermelon Bliss: Tastes like a fresh slice of watermelon. Refreshing and light.
  • Purrr-Fectly Peach: Luscious ripe peach flavor in a crisp Chardonnay.
  • Strawberry Sensation: Fresh strawberry aroma with a crisp, delicate finish.
  • Blue-Eyed Blue Berry: Made from 100% blueberry juice with no grape base. Packed with antioxidants.

For the Dry Wine Lovers

  • Cabernet Sauvignon: Rich, dark, smooth finish. A customer favorite.
  • Famous Amos’ Sangiovese: Their boldest variety, with a unique cayenne pepper finish.
  • Malbec: Medium-bodied red with a hint of spice and oak.

But honestly? My favorite thing I tried was the Rum Tum Tuggler cocktail. It was tropical, like a little beach vacation in a glass. If you’re not sure where to start, ask your bartender for a recommendation. They know their stuff.

Good to know: Bottles are $22 for standard wines and $30 for dessert wines. Buy 12 bottles and get one free (non-dessert wines only). No membership or club card needed for the discount.

Yes, You Can Bring the Kids

This is the part that really sets Cat’s Paw apart. So many wineries feel like adults-only zones, but Cat’s Paw leans into the family-friendly angle. Outside, there’s a train-themed playground for ages 2 to 5 with several train cars the kids can climb in and explore. It’s the kind of setup where your little ones are entertained and visible while you enjoy your flight on the patio.

For kids who want their own “grown-up” drink, Cat’s Paw offers a Rainbow Slushie, which is a non-alcoholic slushie. Adults can get wine slushies too ($13 for 9 oz), and the flavors rotate monthly.

They also have an onsite food truck and partnered with Boston Annie’s to offer charcuterie lunch boxes ($15) and a light finger menu that’s family-friendly. So you can make an afternoon of it without anyone getting hangry.

Train playground at Cat's Paw Winery

Tips for Your Visit

  • Start with the wine flight ($20 for five pours) before committing to a full glass or bottle. It’s the best way to figure out what you like.
  • Ask your bartender for guidance. Micayla was fantastic and knew exactly how to match my preferences.
  • The patio is the best spot if you have kids or dogs. You can keep an eye on the playground while you sip.
  • They ship wine to SC, FL, DC, RI, and MN, so you can restock your favorites from home.
  • Grab one of their logo glasses ($10) as a souvenir. Trust me, you’ll want one.
  • Call ahead if you have a group of six or more so they can make sure they’re properly staffed.

What I Enjoyed Most

Cat’s Paw Winery is a gem. I went in as a wine fan and cat person, and the whole experience just clicked. The wines are genuinely good, not just novelty-sweet (though the sweet options are great if that’s your thing). The staff was warm and knowledgeable. The cat theme is playful without being over the top. And the fact that kids can play on the train playground while adults actually relax with a glass? That’s rare.

It’s the only winery in Cherokee County, so there’s nothing else quite like it in the area. Whether you’re planning a date afternoon, a girls’ day out, or a family outing where everyone is happy, Cat’s Paw delivers. It’s cozy enough for a quick stop and fun enough to spend a whole afternoon.

Plan Your Visit

Cat’s Paw Winery is open Wednesday through Saturday from 12 pm to 8 pm, rain or shine. No reservations needed for a casual visit or tasting, but call ahead at 864-987-8618 for groups of six or more. Note that a 20% gratuity is typically added for parties of eight or more.

You can find them at 210 E Cherokee St, Blacksburg, SC 29702.
For more details, visit catspawwinery.com or email info@brinsonspirits.com.


Summer day trips

Looking for more fun day trips from Greenville? Check out our guide to The Best Summer Day Trips Near Greenville, SC.


Need a date night idea that doesn’t involve a babysitter dilemma? Our list of Unforgettable Date Ideas in the Summer: Greenville, SC has you covered.

Summer date night ideas in Greenville, South Carolina

Frequently Asked Questions About Cat’s Paw Winery

Is Cat’s Paw Winery kid-friendly?

Yes! There’s a train-themed playground outside for ages 2 to 5, non-alcoholic lemonade or rainbow slushies for kids, and a family-friendly food menu. It’s one of the most kid-friendly wineries in the Upstate.

How much does a wine flight cost at Cat’s Paw Winery?

A wine flight is $20 and includes five 2 oz pours of your choice from their full menu. You can mix sweet and dry wines.

What are the hours for Cat’s Paw Winery in Blacksburg, SC?

Cat’s Paw Winery is open Wednesday through Saturday from 12 pm to 8 pm. They’re open rain or shine. No reservations needed, but call ahead for groups of six or more.

Can I bring my dog to Cat’s Paw Winery?

Yes, well-behaved dogs are welcome on the patio.

Does Cat’s Paw Winery serve food?

Yes! There’s a great food truck onsite that serves everything from pizza to loaded chips. They also offer charcuterie lunch boxes from Boston Annie’s ($15) and a light finger menu that’s family-friendly. Wine slushies and non-alcoholic slushies are available too.

Places Where You Can Salsa Dance in Greenville, SC

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Did you know that you could take free lessons in Salsa dancing in Greenville, SC. Local mom Kristina shares her favorite places to Salsa dance in Greenville, the perfect romantic date night.

Salsa dancing is quite close to my heart, and it’s pretty awesome that we can do it in Greenville, SC! Despite my current last name, I have zero Latin blood in me; rather, I’m the typical American mix of European ancestry, one that arguably isn’t known for its superb dancing styles.

So when I had the chance to take salsa dancing lessons back when I lived near Washington, DC, I jumped at the opportunity. I had seen a beautiful couple at the bar/restaurant where the lessons occurred, twirling, laughing, and swaying their hips with the Latin beats. I wanted to be that girl, and I wanted to learn how to dance like that.

And I did.

Salsa dancing at Salsa at Sunset in Downtown Greenville, South Carolina
Salsa dancing at Camperdown Plaza

This was before marriage and kids, so I had time to go several times a week to lessons and dancing. But I got more out of it than I ever expected. I met my husband during one of those early classes. He had been taking lessons for a few months and easily impressed me. We went dancing together for nearly three years before we started dating and then got married.

We don’t go as often as we’d like to now, but when I heard about dancing salsa in the plaza at the Peace Center last summer, I got a babysitter and made plans to go. After all, when does the chance come up to dance at sunset? Not often enough.

Salsa at Sunset Event in Greenville

On select Fridays throughout the summer, Upstate International hosts the amazing Salsa at Sunset event at Camperdown Plaza in downtown Greenville. It’s a free outdoor event that features free group salsa lessons, a live band that plays salsa, merengue, and bachata (other Latin dance styles), and a beer and wine cash bar.

The event is family-friendly as well. We saw lots of kids there getting their groove on. There were dancers of every age and ability.

All of the events are from 6 pm to 10 pm and include free dance lessons and lots of dancing. The free dance lessons start around 6:15, so we recommend them if you want to learn before taking the dance floor.

Upcoming Salsa at Sunset Events

  • Salsa at Sunset – May 22, 2026 | 6:15-10 pm | Camperdown Plaza, 20 E Broad St, Greenville | Free
  • Salsa at Sunset – June 26, 2026 | 6:15-10 pm | Camperdown Plaza, 20 E Broad St, Greenville | Free
  • Salsa at Sunset – July 24, 2026 | 6:15-10 pm | Camperdown Plaza, 20 E Broad St, Greenville | Free
  • Salsa at Sunset – August 28, 2026 | 6:15-10 pm | Camperdown Plaza, 20 E Broad St, Greenville | Free

In my experience of Latin dancing, it really doesn’t matter your age or ability or anything else you’re nervous about, and that may be holding you back. Everyone just wants to have fun.

Dancing is a great equalizer. Most dancers are patient and eager to teach and learn. Dancing is a wonderful activity to let your body take over and move with the music, and give your brain a break from doing any thinking. It’s relaxing and a great date activity.

Other Places for Salsa Dancing: Greenville, SC

Greenville has an active little salsa dancing community.

Salsa Greenville regularly hosts salsa dancing events at local clubs and organizations. Many of these events come along with fun themes, like Bachata Under the Stars and Pasion Thursdays. Social Latitude regularly hosts events with Salsa Greenville called during their Latin Dance Nights.

What to Wear and Other Questions

For women, a shoe with a smooth bottom and a heel not more than two inches is preferable (tennis shoes aren’t the best because they stick to the floor, but I’ve seen women wear them and do fine). At Salsa at Sunset, I usually just use sneakers, and it’s fine.

Dresses are enjoyable to wear, but just be sure they either don’t fly all the way up when you spin or wear shorts underneath. Be comfortable because you’ll be moving around a lot.

For men, shoes with smooth bottoms are ideal as well. And just dress comfortably.

You don’t need a partner for lessons. You rotate around and get to dance with everyone there, so it’s not necessary to come with anyone.

Give it a shot – you may just love it.

Have you ever tried salsa dancing?

Guide to Date Night in Greenville, SC

For more date night ideas, see our full Date Night Guide to Greenville, SC.

Stay Cool: 15+ Best Ideas for Indoor Dates in Greenville, SC

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When the temperatures heat up in the summer or drop to freezing in the winter, you can still have a really fun date night indoors in Greenville, SC. We’ve got the best ideas for indoor dates, from axe throwing to seeing a play to dancing and rock climbing.

Ideas for indoor date nights near Greenville, SC.

If the idea of feeling sweat drip down your back while on a date outdoors this summer doesn’t sound romantic, we can sympathize. Summers, while fun in South Carolina, can be brutally hot, and planning a fun date together where you aren’t melting may take some creativity – and that’s where we can help you out. And on cold winter nights, you can stay warm indoors while having fun together, too!

Fortunately, there are lots of fantastic places in the Upstate to have a memorable and cool date night in the AC besides the standard dinner and a movie. You can enjoy some quality time together while also maybe even checking off some bucket list items. No matter your interests, we think you’ll find something on this list where you can plan a great summer or winter date night together. 

Painting

Best Indoor Date Night Ideas for Playing

Group Therapy Pub & Playground 

Located in Camperdown Plaza in downtown Greenville, Group Therapy has an 18-hole mini-golf course, axe throwing, curling, ping pong, and tons more, plus an extensive bar and food menu. You must make reservations to play the games.

Escape Rooms

Solve puzzles together in themed rooms at Escape Artist Greenville or Trapped in the Upstate.

Upstate Pinball Museum & Arcade

Throw it back to the 90s with an awesome arcade that has more than a dozen pinball machines, but old school games like Nintendo, Paper Boy, and Pac-Man. It’s $10/person for all-day play. Vaughn’s Food Hall is right next door, where you can grab dinner together.

Double Stamp Brewery

Play Nintendo together at the bar while enjoying delicious craft beer or sodas made right in-house at Double Stamp Brewery in Greenville.

Double Stamp Brewery

Best Indoor Date Nights for Busting Stress

Break some stuff

Take a bat to some glass, an old car, or windows at Mad Smash Rage Room in Taylors Mill. You’ll absolutely love breaking stuff, we promise!

Go to an art gallery

Gazing at pretty art is a great way to bust stress and relax. Head to the Greenville Center for Creative Arts on the first Friday of the month from 6-9 pm for free, or visit the Greenville County Museum of Art downtown, also free.


Best Indoor Date Nights for Making Something Together

Maybe you’re trying to have a cozy, rainy day date that goes beyond the living room or playing board games. Go out and make something together! These make for a great romantic indoor date!

Create some art

Make some art together at TReehouse Cafe & Art Studio, TR Makers Co., Vino & Van Gogh, or Wine & Design. 

Make pottery

Get on the pottery wheel to create your own pottery pieces at Hollowed Earth Pottery or In the Potter’s Hands.

Hollowed Earth
Hollowed Earth

Paint your own pottery

If you’d rather paint your own pottery than create it, go to Hearts of Clay in Spartanburg, Color Clay Cafe in Greenville, or Glazed in Clemson.

Pour your own candles

You can make your own soy candles together at Greenville Soy Candle Company in downtown Greenville.


Best Indoor Date Nights for Shows

These shows are a great way to enjoy time with each other, and are also the perfect excuse to catch your favorite comedy show, a tour through outer space, or even a rock concert.

Starry Nights

Relax in the planetarium at Roper Mountain Science Center and gaze up at the stars and learn about our magnificent solar system at Friday Starry Nights. They also offer the Laser Days of Summer shows that feature rock music and lasers (in the winter, Holiday laser shows are quite fun too). You must buy tickets online ahead of time. 

Roper Mountain Science

Live theater and comedy

There are plenty of places to catch live theater and comedy in Greenville, like the Peace Center, the Logos Theatre, the Greenville Theatre, the Warehouse Theatre, the City of Greer Center for the Arts, and the Younts Center for Performing Arts. Some local comedy clubs include The Comedy Zone and Alchemy Comedy Theatre.


Best Indoor Date Nights for Active Couples

Go dancing

If you love to dance – or want to learn – there are some great spots to do so. Check out country line dancing at Cowboy Up Greenville. Landmark Hall in Greer and the Blue Ridge Dance Lab in TR have different dance nights, so check their website. There is also Salsa at Sunset in the summertime for a more romantic fee.

You can also dance the night away with some live music at one of these local music venues (many of which are breweries, so you can grab a drink and relax or dance!)

Indoor Rock Climbing

Challenge your partner to see who can climb an indoor mountain at Climb at Blue Ridge in Taylors and BlocHaven in Greenville.

Flowers in Falls Park Greenville SC

Looking for more things to do as an adult in Greenville, SC? We’ve got your Ultimate Adulting Guide to the Upstate.


Find your next date night idea in Kidding Around’s Date Night Guide.

Guide to Date Night in Greenville, SC

15 Most Unique Date Nights Within 2 Hours of Greenville, SC

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Are you ready to plan a few unique date nights in or around Greenville, SC with your significant other? When it comes to hanging out with my significant other, I tend to shy away from the dinner and a movie typical date night because it’s just too much of been there, done that. In an effort to be creative and create awesome memories together, here are 15 unique date nights within a two-hour drive of the Upstate.

Skip the dinner-and-a-movie rut: These 15 date ideas within two hours of the Upstate are the kind of dates you’ll actually remember
From chasing rare Blue Ghost fireflies to rappelling a waterfall, there’s something here for every couple, whether you’re thrill-seekers or just ready for something new
Local favorites included: Real recommendations from couples who’ve actually done these dates, plus tips on what to book before it sells out

(more…)

Unforgettable Date Ideas in the Summer: Greenville, SC

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Inside: A curated list of great summer date ideas in Greenville, SC. We think they are great, anyway. Tell us what you think.


Planning a date night and looking for date night ideas in the summer? Greenville, SC makes date nights easy. There are so many options! If you are tired of going on the same old dates, use this list to spice things up this summer.

Summer is the perfect time to get back into date night with your significant other. There are so many more options for having fun together over the summer compared to other times of year because you can get outside. Although you totally don’t have to be outside – sometimes the air conditioning feels divine.

So, get to planning on that date night, or date day as we have those ideas as well. Can you try for three dates this summer – one for June, July and August? We have plenty of options for you, just pick a few!

Looking for more date night ideas? Check out our Ultimate Date Night Guide to Greenville, SC! You’ll find ideas for any occasion.

Salsa dancing at Salsa at Sunset in Downtown Greenville, South Carolina
Salsa dancing at Camperdown Plaza

Date Ideas in the Summer: Greenville, SC

Saturday Farmers Markets

An hour or two browsing the farmers markets on a Saturday morning is an easy way to squeeze in some time together while supporting local. Grab a coffee and pastry and check out all the local produce, cheeses, and freshly made bread and pasta that Greenville has to offer. This list showcases the best farmers markets in and around Greenville.

Go Hiking

If you and your significant other love nature, take a hike together. There are plenty of hiking trails in and around Greenville, from an easy hike at Conestee to the more difficult summit at Table Rock.

View of the mountain face and lake at Table Rock State Park

Go Tubing

This is one of those activities perfect for a lazy, hot day. If the grandparents can watch the kids, go on a date with your bathing suit, some snacks, and expectations of doing absolutely nothing with your love other than chilling in a giant tube on a lake. Our giant list of river tubing spots has several places to choose from.

Where to go tubing near Greenville, SC and find great "tubing near me".

Tubing down the river makes an excellent, relaxing date day. We’ll help you find a river tubing spot for your next date!

Take in a Ballgame

This would be a longer date night but a chill one for sure.  Take in a Greenville Drive baseball game at Fluor Field any time this summer. Tickets start at $11 and you can see the schedule here.

Grab Ice Cream

A cone piled high with your favorite ice cream flavors and toppings is hard to beat in the summer heat. This is a cheap date too – you can grab ice cream and pay the sitter for about $20 total. Here is where we love to grab ice cream in Greenville.

These ice cream shops near Greenville, SC have some of the best sweet treats for a perfect date.

Best ice cream shops in Greenville and Spartanburg, SC.

Go Star Gazing

While you can most certainly stargaze outside on a clear night, you can also take advantage of the state-of-the-art planetarium (air-conditioned as well) at the Roper Mountain Science Center. They have new shows at the planetarium every few months and take place every Friday night. There are three showtimes (4:30, 6, and 7:30). Be sure to get tickets online, which are $8 for adults. Afterwards, head over to the Daniel Observatory right next door to look at Saturn’s rings!

Take a Culinary Tour

We recommend the At the Chef’s Table culinary tour in pretty much every date night article we write because it’s just that good. Led by local historian and foodie John Nolan, the culinary tour is a treat for the senses. You get VIP treatment at four restaurants in Greenville within walking distance with specially-made dishes just for the tour group. Drinks are included at each stop as well. This is by far one of the best date night ideas in all of Greenville. Tickets start at $79/person and you can reserve them online here.

Table set for Greenville's Culinary Tour

Get on the Water: Go Kayaking

There are several amazing lakes in the Greenville area that offer kayak rentals. My personal favorite is Lake Jocassee, a pristine lake about an hour and twenty minutes from Greenville where you can paddle all day, sneaking into little coves, seeing waterfalls, and picnicking on islands. This is a great date to get away from everything for a bit. You can rent a tandem kayak (a two-seater) all day for around $85. Bring a lunch and snacks, and have a fun and romantic time.

See a Concert

Many towns in and around Greenville offer free concerts, which is ideal for date nights because who doesn’t like free? Here’s the list of free live music around town. You will also find concerts and Broadway shows at the Peace Center in Downtown Greenville, and you can plan ahead so you have something to look forward to.

Kristina and her husband on a date night salsa dancing in Greenville, South Carolina

Catch a Summer Movie Outside

There are plenty of places showing free summer movies outside. Bring lawn chairs, a picnic blanket, and some snacks for a wonderful, cozy summer date. Check out our list of free outdoor movies here.

Go Dancing

Dancing is a great way to be social, meet friends, get exercise, enjoy music, and have a great connection with your love all at the same time! Summertime means you can fill your fridays with salsa dancing at Camperdown Plaza! You can also take west coast swing classes at Spare Time Greenville on Tuesday nights and east coast swing classes with Upstate Swing.

Get a Brew

Greenville has exploded with breweries in the past couple of years. There is no shortage of places to grab a cold one on a hot night.13 Stripes, Other Lands, Bridgeway Brewing Co, and Southern Growl are all great places to check out for a relaxed date night. We personally love taking a board game with us to play while we sip on our drinks. Check out our full list of breweries in the area.

Best Family Breweries in Greenville, SC

These local breweries are a great option for a relaxed date night!

Visit a Winery

Relax with your loved one at City Scape Winery over a glass of wine and a locally sourced cheese plate.

Head to a Pottery Studio

There is something special about doing a hobby together, so why not make it a date night! Hollowed Earth Pottery is a great place at Hampton Station to try your hand at throwing pottery on the wheel in their Beginner Pottery Class. Classes are $75 per person, and after class, you can grab some food from one of the dining spots at Hampton Station.

Hollowed Earth pottery for a date night in Greenville, South Carolina

Experience Glow Golf

Go to Takeoff Mini Golf for Glow Golf. You’ll play with glowing golf balls to a DJ cranking out some seriously good music. You must purchase tickets in advance at $15 per person.

Glo Golf

2026 Summer Glow Golf Dates:
May 16
July 25
August 8
September 5
September 19
October 10

Watch!

Do you have any date ideas in the summer in Greenville, SC that are special to you?
Share it in the comments!

Looking for more summer fun? Check out our Ultimate Summer Guide in Greenville, SC.

The Ultimate Summer in Greenville, SC Guide

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