Inside: Local mom visits Givhans Ferry State Park & The Edisto River, and is sharing all the best tips and tricks for visiting!
Have you visited Givhans Ferry State Park or the surrounding Edisto River area? KAG contributor Liene explored the Lowcountry, including the Edisto River area and Givhans Ferry State Park, as a correspondent to the South Carolina 7 Wonders expedition. What she found is that not only is the Edisto deserving of the title 5th Wonder of South Carolina, but together with the surrounding area makes a unique destination for a family weekend in the Lowcountry!
M&G, the Bob Jones Museum and Gallery, is a place to examine cultural and art history for all ages. Though M&G has been closed to the public since 2017, you can still view historic pieces of art from the gallery at various campus locations, off-campus locations, and events throughout the Upstate.
Plus, M&G still offers homeschool programs, specialized tours, and summer camps! As M&G continues to fund for a new location, we can support them through the various art history programs available.
Where to See Collections on View Throughout the BJU Campus
Though the brick-and-mortar Museum and Gallery location is no longer open at BJU, there are several places where you can view Medieval, Renaissance, Baroque, American, and religious art throughout the campus at Bob Jones University. The M&G Collection on View has pieces displayed in three campus locations, including:
Gustafson Fine Arts Center Atrium: Open Monday – Friday, 10 am – 5 pm Tours are available, Open to the public European Old Masters painting collection of Luther’s Journey: Experience the History
War Memorial Chapel: Open by appointment only Tours available The Benjamin West Collection: The Father of American Painting
Mack Library: Monday – Saturday, 10 am – 5 pm Open to the public Medieval and Renaissance artifacts and art pieces
Activities for All Ages
Does history and art make your eyes glaze over? It doesn’t have to be like that! History is rich with incredible and interesting stories and art reflects that intrigue. M&G offers Scavenger Hunts that encompass everything from the signs and symbols in the art that mean something more than meets the eye to be able to identify techniques used by the greatest artists in all of history.
M&G also offers two print-off seasonal scavenger hunts for Easter and Christmas. These hunts are for all ages and use short audio clips and videos to help the hunter find out more information about the pieces they are hunting for.
Art Discovery Tours for Kids
There are also specialized Cultural Discovery Tours for kids so they can learn more about art history. These tours are from K – 12th grade, and groups of 10 or more are needed. Tours are free but must be requested in advance.
Currently, M&G offers on-campus and off-campus tours for two different exhibits, Who Needs Shakespeare (6th – 12th grade) and Benjamin West: The Father of American Painting (grades 3rd -12th grade). Homeschool groups and teachers can submit a Specialized Focus Tours form to find out more information about the exhibits.
M&G Homeschool Days
M&G at Bob Jones University offers a special program for homeschoolers for their Homeschool Days, one that caters to students ages 5 – 14 years old. Lessons are 75 minutes long and are available once per month at the Mack Building on campus.
M&G Homeschool Days 2025–2026
Theme:Victorian England: Through the Looking Glass Ages: 5–14 Lesson Length: 75 minutes (includes art activity)
Location & Cost
Mack Building, Bob Jones University
Children: $10 per lesson
Adults: $3 per lesson
Fees are non-refundable
Parents may stay or drop off
Check ahead for availability as they fill up quickly
If you prefer an at-home program, M&G also offers Digital Homeschool Days. These digital classes are for ages 5 – 14 years old and explore The Age of Antiquity. You must pre-register for the digital lessons and will have access to lessons on Sumer, Assyria, Babylon, Egypt, Hebrew, Greece, and Rome.
Museum on the Move
If you are looking for a unique way to bring the museum to your classroom or homeschool co-op, then M&G has you covered! They offer art-based STEAM units, whoo hoo! If you choose the in-person option, an educator will come to your classroom or group for a 30 – 60 minute lesson. Lessons meet core SC standards, so you don’t have to stress about that.
You can also choose grades 1st through 6th, with several lesson options available. You can find more information about the Museum on the Move program and how to register for in person and digital lessons on the M&G Museum on the Move page.
Kids Create! Summer Camp at M&G
Every summer, M&G at Bob Jones University offers a Kids Create! Summer camp that will have your child exploring the world through art. Summer camps are available for children aged K5 – age 12. Your child will explore the fine arts, create art projects, play interactive games, learn age-appropriate material, and make new friends! Camps are typically a week long in June and are half-day.
What’s Inside: A look at what’s waiting for families on Hendersonville, NC’s Ecusta Trail.
You may be familiar with the Swamp Rabbit, Mary Black & Doodle Trails, maybe you’ve even taken a road trip up to ride the Virginia Creeper Trail near Damascus, but if your family is looking for a brand-new trail to explore, I’ve got great news! The first 6 miles of the long-awaited Ecusta Trail are open to the public, with another dozen miles set to eventually connect Hendersonville to Brevard, NC!
The Grand Opening of the Ecusta Trail
Hundreds of people gathered in Hendersonville earlier this summer to celebrate the ribbon-cutting for the Ecusta Trail, the newest rail trail added to the growing network of multi-purpose trails crisscrossing western North Carolina. The Ecusta rail line was built in 1894 to service a paper mill, but the last time a train used the rail corridor was in 2002. It has taken 15 years of community efforts from nonprofits, including Friends of Ecusta Trail and Conserving Carolina, to transform it into the trail it is today!
Stops to Make Along the Trail
The Eastern Terminus of the Ecusta Trail
The eastern terminus of the Ecusta Trail (and to the section of trail that is currently open) is Main Street in Hendersonville. The town recently reworked their traffic pattern to make a safe and convenient bike lane that allows trail users to explore downtown, including some of our favorites like the Mineral & Lapidary Museum, the E.C.C.O. Aquarium & Shark Lab, the Appalachian Pinball Museum, Mast General Store and Black Bear Coffee.
Be sure to check out the Bearfootin’ Bears, a public art display featuring decorated, life-size bear sculptures!
A good starting point to exploring downtown is the Welcome Center and Trailhead (with bathrooms and water fountains). As you work your way south, the Ecusta Trail splits off going west just before S. Church & S. Main merge – and the adventure continues!
Lennox Station and Beyond
A popular stop comes up in about ½ mile: Lennox Station. Trail users can grab a quick bite from Ecusta Market & Café, and just next door is Trailside Brewing Company. Then at around mile 1.5 is Southern Streams Coffeehouse and Laurel Green Park, with the Little Laurel Green playground. Next up at mile 2 are a slew of dining options, as well as a convenience and grocery store. And around mile 3 is Basecamp: the Elijah Mountain Gem Mine and Goat Farm, and Guidon Brewing Co.
Where the Trail Ends
The trail currently ends at mile 6 in Horse Shoe, but plans are already underway for the next two sections. 5 more miles in Henderson County through Etowah and another 8 in Transylvania County will take the trail to Pisgah Forest and the western terminus, Main Street in Brevard.
For this part, the trail roughly parallels the French Broad River and Hendersonville Highway. Etowah has more than a couple of eateries and stops, as well as the Horse Shoe River Bend Access point to the French Broad River. Upon reaching Pisgah Forest and Brevard, the trail will intersect with the Brevard greenway near Oskar Blues, just west of where the Davidson River flows into the French Broad.
Please, Follow Etiquette to Stay Safe
While on the trail, users should follow the usual trail etiquette. Please respect private property and stay on the trail! Pedal-assist e-bikes are permitted on the Ecusta, but wheels yield to pedestrians, and you should keep right except to pass.
We’ve found it’s great practice for our “on your left” warning when passing – even the 5-year-old who is just learning his left from right! Helmets are required for children 16 years of age and under (who are on wheels), and pets must be on a leash no longer than 6ft & under control. Please clean up after your pet as you would anywhere!
Check out the Handy Ecusta Trail Map!
To view the interactive trail map, visit the Ecusta Trail website. It’s also got all the latest on the status of the remaining portion of the trail, as well as info on volunteering and trail events. Ecusta Trail also has a Facebook and Instagram page.
Did you know there’s a ranch in Greenville County with over 35 bison roaming the beautiful foothills? It’s called Big Balls Ranch and you’ll love meeting the bison and the family who runs it! Thanks to BBR for the opportunity to take a tour and learn so much about bison.
Big Balls Ranch has it all: mountain views, bison, the opportunity to get pretty close to these wild creatures, and awesome t-shirts. If you’ve ever wanted to learn about America’s national mammal, this is the place. In fact, it’s the only bison ranch in Greenville County and the largest in South Carolina.
Getting close to the bison at Big Balls Ranch
About Big Balls Ranch
BBR was started by Brent and Robin, who bought the land in northern Greenville County to essentially have a family compound. They have two grown daughters and wanted everyone to be near each other.
But then they went to Yellowstone and were fascinated by the bison herds. Brent especially fell in love with the majestic, wild creatures and set out to learn all about them. Like a kid obsessed with trains or LEGOs, Brent soaked up all the knowledge he could about bison and he and his family volunteered on a small ranch in South Carolina to learn firsthand about how to care for the massive animals.
The family had two years under their belt of caring for bison on that ranch before they brought buffalo onto their land. BBR has a thriving herd of 38 bison, including the new herd of five buffalo that was just last month.
The new buffalo herd
Private tours are a brand new endeavor because the family wants to share their love of bison and help supplement the enormous expense of caring for the herd. Everyone in the family has day jobs but besides being related, they have this common thread of a love of bison and the desire to educate others about the cool animals.
Why Big Balls Ranch?
The name of the ranch certainly elicits a second glance and maybe a raised eyebrow or two. Definitely a laugh. The acronym BBR is actually the initials of Brent and Robin. It’s also a hat tip to Robin’s love of decorating and using all kinds of balls to make things pretty.
Additionally, bison are huge animals, most weighing over a thousand pounds. They can move fast, jump over a six-foot fence, and take out any tourists who try to pet the fluffy cows at national parks. To purposely take up the task of raising bison, caring for them, and getting pretty close to them takes some nerve and heck of a lot of courage and brass. The ranch is aptly named.
Learning about Bison at Big Balls Ranch
I’ve had the pleasure of staying at a bison ranch in North Carolina and learning a bit about these magnificent creatures. But getting a tour from Brent is a whole other level of education.
The man knows bison. He’s like the ChaptGPT of bison. Ask a question and he knows the answer. And he’s going to tell you everything else you didn’t ask because it’s that cool.
The wagon ride at Big Balls Ranch
I’m pretty good at remembering information when I go on tours and write stories. But I thought my head was going to explode at the amount of bison knowledge I was thrown in the 20-minute introduction to the farm and the bison herd. We learned all about the history of the bison and how they were nearly driven to extinction during the mid to late 1800s when the animals were desired for their hides. It was only due to the efforts of private citizens who were determined to save the species and therefore created ranches to raise the animals.
In 2016, bison became America’s national mammal. Today, there are just under 400,000 bison on private ranches and about 31,000 on federally managed land and national parks. But bison did roam all across North America at one time. They were especially important to Native American tribes.
Once Brent unloaded a significant amount of bison knowledge on us, we headed out to the pastures to see the animals up close.
Big Balls Ranch Bison Tour
Big Balls Ranch offers two options for private tours: a wagon that can seat up to 12 people and air-conditioned UTVs that seat up to four. We took the open air wagon, which is pulled by a massive tractor, into the pasture with the larger herd. I wasn’t sure how close we were going to get to the bison but I wasn’t disappointed.
Brent told us that bison are curious animals and the herd he has is very docile. It’s not like we were going to be walking amongst the buffalo but Brent did tell us he has worked closely with the herd for years and they know him. One came right up to him to lick his glove and others came pretty close to the wagon, maybe 10 feet away.
Buffalo at Big Balls Ranch
We saw lots of the baby bison with their moms, which was adorable. We learned that the cows are pregnant for nine-and-a-half months and the births are usually uneventful. The other cool thing about the herds is that they are a matriarchal society. There is one alpha female yet the only thing Brent didn’t know was how she’s picked by the other herd members. That’s it – he knew everything else.
The male bison that fathered all the babies is appropriately named Big Boy. He’s over two thousand pounds and yes, he was huge. I was wondering if the ranch was named after him (it’s not).
The bison peacefully passed us and continued to graze. It was super cool to see them this close.
The Land at Big Balls Ranch
Seeing the bison is really neat and learning about their history and how the herds operate was truly enjoyable. However, the land has to be mentioned here because it’s just God’s country out there. It’s stunningly beautiful.
The ranch is on more than 100 acres and very close to Table Rock and Jones Gap. In fact, one of the views you’ll see is facing Jones Gap. The mountains surround the pastures and since the tours are in the evenings during the golden hour before sunset, the light that hits the mountain peaks, trees, and bison themselves is breathtaking. As a photographer, I couldn’t take enough photos of this place.
Views at the bison ranch
The way that the family moves the herd around to different pastures is sustainable and healthy. They want the bison to graze naturally and have taken an approach to caring for the herd that is as natural as possible. They let the bison roam in large pastures and move them around as needed to let the grass grow again and prevent erosion. The herd is sometimes fed hay but they are mostly grassfed – this is a big reason why the meat the ranch sells is so delicious. You may have seen Big Balls Ranch at some of our local farmers markets since that’s one place they sell the meat.
Honest Mom Review
While having been on a bison ranch before, I had an idea of what to expect at Big Balls Ranch but I was surprised by a lot of the elements. I certainly didn’t expect to learn so much about the animals. And I did not expect to be completely enamoured by the ranch itself and the natural beauty that surrounds it.
My favorite part was getting to see the animals up close. I have a healthy respect for bison and the fact that they are indeed wild, and enormously powerful, animals so it was amazing to see them so close and having Brent there to explain why we are able to get that near to them.
The whole experience of learning about the bison, enjoying the stunning land, and getting to see how one family has chased their dreams was just so cool. And to know that it’s all part of Greenville County was even more amazing.
We had fun!
Booking Your Own Tour
Tours are in the evenings on weekends at Big Balls Ranch and you can easily book them online. Tours last approximately 90 minutes and they are a minimum of $100 for three people (not $100/person but $100 for three people). For each person after the initial three, it is $25 per additional adult and $15/ages 3-12. Under three is free.
While the ranch doesn’t have specific field trips or homeschool days yet, they are open to working with groups to create those kinds of tours so reach out if you’re interested.
Included in the tour is a reel that they will make for you!
You can also purchase Big Balls Ranch t-shirts (imagine all the fun places you can wear that to) and bison meat raised right there at the ranch.
Have you visited Grandad’s Apples? Fall is just around the corner, and your family might be hunting for the perfect apple orchard! We checked out Grandad’s Apples ‘N Such and had so much fun. You’ll find activities for kids at Grandad’s Apples ‘N Such, with beautiful views, and, of course, apples.
U-PICK: U-pick is open. Grandad’s asked that you follow their Facebook page for the latest updates.
Hendersonville, North Carolina is known for its delicious apples and it’s easy to see why on the drive up to Grandad’s Apples ‘N Such. There are a handful of orchards within a few-mile radius and several farm stands all selling the delicious fruit. On my quest to find the perfect apple orchard experience, I headed on over to Grandad’s, which I heard was pretty awesome.
Searching for mini golf birthday parties near you? Do you want to have a birthday party at McPherson Park in downtown Greenville at the mini-golf course but don’t have putters or balls? Now you can rent them!
We love ideas for inexpensive birthday parties and McPherson Park has always been on that cheap birthday party list for it’s free mini-golf course. But you did need to provide your own putters and balls if you wanted to have a birthday party there – until now.
Searching for ‘tot times near me’? Or maybe ‘toddler times near Greenville, SC? Tot Times are awesome for little ones and their parents – kids get to play during a designated time just for them, whether it’s at a museum, bounce house, or gym. And parents know their kids are safe and enjoying the time to get out energy. We’ve rounded up the best places for Tot Times around Greenville – so pick a few and let your mini-hurricane get out some energy.
Are you thinking of heading to Downtown Greenville to catch a Broadway show, sporting event, or other fun activity at one of the theater, sports, or entertainment venues in Greenville, SC? Whether you’re heading to a show at the Peace Center, a concert at the Bon Secours Wellness Arena, or a Greenville Drive game at Fluor Field, we have the info you need to make the most of your night (or day) out on the town like where to park and eat at each venue.
Inside: A list of petting zoos and farms near Greenville, SC where kids can play with animals
Would a fun day be an adventure with your family to a farm or petting zoo near Greenville, SC? It’s hard to resist a photo of your child petting or interacting with a cute animal at a farm or petting zoo.
I know what you are thinking, “are there any petting zoos near me?”
Yes! There are quite a few! We’ve pulled together a huge list of petting zoos and farms where you can interact with animals. These farms and petting zoos are located near Greenville, SC, in Western North Carolina, Northern Georgia, as well as in Charlotte, NC, and the Midlands. So wherever you are, find a petting zoo near you, or a farm that makes a great day trip.
Our list includes places open year-round places to pet animals, plus seasonal farms, and mobile and event-based petting zoos. We have tried to make sure these are places that treat their animals kindly and with respect as well. If we missed any, let us know in the comments.
If you’re wondering “where are farms with animals near me?” the answer is likely somewhere close by. We’ve visited lots and lots of petting zoos and farms and added them to our lists. So yes, you will probably find a petting zoo on this list near you! Use the links below to navigate this list by location.
Cuddle with cows at Moo Cow Farms in Simpsonville. Visits are by appointment only and you get a tour of the pasture with the cows and opportunities to cuddle and engage with mom-fed, hand-feed cows, and potentially help feed bottle-fed babies. Totally awesome.
In Simpsonville, SC
Hours: By appointment only; you can find the most up to date availability here.
Admission: $12/person ages 3+ and includes one treat bag. Kids under 3 years old are free.
Pet and meet bottle-fed babies at Famoda Farm. Visiting this amazingly welcoming farm is FREE. Don’t forget to purchase ice cream from Amazing Grazin’ on-site ice cream or farm-fresh treats and groceries from Grazers when you visit the farm. Spend some time playing at the playground, too.
In Taylors/Tigerville, SC
Hours: Ice Cream: Friday 4pm to 8pm and Saturday 12pm to 8pm (these are the seasonal hours for June through September), Grazers Farm Store: 10 am to 6 pm Wednesday through Friday, Saturday 9 am to 1 pm, and closed Sunday-Tuesday. Hours may change seasonally.
Admission: Farm admission is FREE
Animals: Baby goats and cows, older goats and cows, donkeys, Twinkles the sheep, bunnies
If you love unicorns, Hidden Pasture Farm is the perfect place to take your kids. Plan to spend about an hour there. Be sure to check out the pony rides, they are a true memory maker!
In Fountain Inn, SC
Hours: Open only on Saturdays and Sundays from 11am to 4pm.
Admission: $12/person, 2 and under FREE. Pony rides are $7 and children must be at least 2 years old to ride ponies.
An alpaca farm that also has goats and chickens. Gloria, the owner, makes hats, scarves, mittens, and blankets from the alpaca’s fleece and gives great tours on the property.
In Townville, SC
Hours: Visitors are welcome by appointment. Admission: Free, donations accepted Animals: alpacas, miniature silky fainting goats, and chickens
Birthday Parties: Yes, they host birthday and other parties with reservations
Home of Red Clay Soap, Double Blessing Farm offers events throughout the year where you can visit the farm and the animals, including baby goats! The farm makes goat milk soap, and you can also sign up for field trips, homesteading classes, learn about the dairy, soapmaking, homeschool events, and more.
This isn’t a petting zoo actually. It’s way better! It’s a llama farm on an apple orchard in Hendersonville, NC where you get to interact with llamas, hike with them, and run with them through an obstacle course.
In Hendersonville, NC
Farm tours and hikes are by appointment but follow them on their Facebook page since they’ll post about upcoming hikes/tours.
Admission: Farm tours are $30/person, Orchard Llama Treks are $70/person.
This adorable farm is beautiful and has lots of great animals you can play with like goats, donkeys, bunnies, and even emus, horses, and cows. And it’s free!
In Nebo, NC (about an hour and 15 minutes from Greenville)
The WNC Nature Center not only has wolves, red pandas, lots of reptiles, otters, and several play areas, they also have a cute little petting zoo that’s included with admission.
In Asheville, NC
Hours: Daily 10 am – 4:30 pm, closed Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Years Day. Admissions closes at 3:30 pm.
Perhaps the only place that allows guests to get in the field and barn with the goats to play with them. There is also hiking and touring the house.
In Flat Rock, NC
Hours: The grounds are open from sunrise to sunset and the goat barn and pasture are open daily from 10 am – 4 pm. closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Years Day.
Admission: Free to enter the estate and play with the goats.
Animals: Goats and baby goats (Spring 2024) are here!
A beautiful drive from Greenville through the mountains to Waynesville in Western, NC, this farm has alpacas and lots of miniature animals like horses, cows, and donkeys. You can feed and interact with some of the animals. Read our review here.
We have a whole list of petting zoos and farms in the Midlands on our sister site Kidding Around Columbia. For all the best petting zoos in that area, you’ll want to head there. There are some pretty awesome options!
Pet, feed, and learn about animals at Goat Daddy’s Farm. We would suggest setting aside at least 1 to 2 hours of your day in order to get the full Goat Daddy’s experience! There is so much to see and learn and even some opportunities for hands-on experiences!
In Elgin, SC
The farm is open for private tours and events ONLY (As of August 2024) from 10 am to 7pm 7 days a week.
Admission: Age 2 and under- free, All other ages the tours start at $69+/person. Prices are subject to change.
Home to many exotic animals, the North Georgia Zoo offers several different encounters with the animals for guests. Admission includes a zoo tour and access to the petting zoo but the personal animal encounters are extra fees. Be sure to look at the age requirements if you are going to book an animal encounter.
In Cleveland, GA
Hours: Open year round but only on weekends some months and during the week others. It’s best to check their online calendar.
Admission: $37.99/adults, $35.99/kids 2-11 which includes admission to the Wildlife and Safari Park; petting farm only admission is $8/adults and $6/kids. personal animal encounters range from $12 up to $450/person.
Animals: Reptiles, birds, camels, wolves, zebras, lemurs, goats, water buffalo, alligators, and monkeys.
Just outside of Charlotte, this farm has lots of animals to see and pet, plus it offers wagon rides. Please note they only accept cash.
In Mooresville, NC
Hours: Hours are Monday- Saturday from 9 am – 1 hour before sunset (please arrive by 5 pm) Sunday from Noon – 1 hour before sunset (please arrive by 5 pm).
Admission: $15/adults, $11/ages 2-11; to include the wagon ride and animal feed, tickets are $21/adults, $15/ages 2-11.
These petting zoos and farms are open on a seasonal basis such as in spring or fall.
Denver Downs
One of the very best farms in the entire Upstate and a fall favorite for so many families in the area due to its award-winning corn maze, fall farm activities kids love, pig races, live entertainment, and a little petting zoo area.
In Anderson, SC
Hours: They are open daily from late September through mid-November for fall family fun; they also host springtime events. You can find specific dates on the Denver Downs website.
Admission: Fall event admission $15/person, Spring event admission $15/person
The Roper Mountain Science Center is part of the Greenville County School System and has a planetarium, science hall, and Living History Farm. They offer animal encounters with sea creatures during special events!
In Greenville, SC
Hours: Afternoon Explorations program starts on September 12, 2024 and is available on Thursdays and Fridays from 1:30 pm to 5:00 pm *excluding days when RMSC is closed for holidays and Greenville County Schools scheduled breaks.
Hours: Summer Adventure program: June – July 2024. Check the Roper Mountain website for upcoming exhibits!
Admission: $15/adult, $14/child, kids under 3 FREE, RMSC members are free
The petting zoo is part of Tweetsie Railroad theme park near Boone, North Carolina.
In Blowing Rock, NC
Hours: Thursday-Monday from 10 am – 6 pm; Extended days and hours from May-October. Be sure to check their calendar for the latest hours of operation. The park is closed for winter, and reopens every April.
Admission: Included with admission to Tweetsie Railroad ($65/adults, $45/kids ages 3-12)
Animals: Goats, llamas, emus, miniature horses, miniature donkeys, and some fluffy sheep called an Olde English Babydoll Southdown Sheep
The family-run apple orchard is a fantastic fall destination with tons of great activities for kids – and they have a petting zoo with gentle goats and a pond where kids can feed fish (bring quarters!).
In Hendersonville, NC
Hours: 9 am – 5 pm Monday through Sunday. These hours are seasonal starting around July and ending in early November. Check their website before you go.
Admission: Free admission to the orchard. If you want to feed the animals, you can pay for a bucket but it’s free to pet them. The petting zoo is open on weekends but you can see the animals if they are out anytime.
If you’d like to plan an event like a birthday party, scout outing, or office event with animals, these places can either host you or will come to your location.
Zuber Petting Zoo
Based in Campobello, SC, Zuber Petting Zoo is a mobile-petting zoo with goats, pigs, chickens, llamas, cows, and more. 864.316.1302 | Zuber Petting Zoo Website
Safe Haven & Educational Adventures, Inc.
Safe Haven is a permanent sanctuary for exotic wildlife that have either been abandoned, abused, lost their home for some reason. They do educational programs, including birthday parties, and bring their animals to educate and be loved on. 864.246.4425 | Rescue Exotics Website
Critter Keeper
Super popular in the Upstate, the Critter Keeper “brings the jungle” to you for parties and events with reptiles and fluffy critters for kids to enjoy. 864.640.2295 | Critter Keeper Website
They have bunnies, alpacas, goats, and guinea pigs and bring all the cute animals right to you. They are located in Greenville. 864.346.6991 | Herbert and Friends Mobile Petting Zoo Facebook
Triple Lake Farm
A mobile petting zoo based in Easley, SC. They have miniature cows, goats, donkeys, and offer pony rides.
Located in Northern Georgia, Sam Path Petting Zoo has zebras, monkeys, camels, kangaroos, and all kinds of other animals perfect for a cute party. 706.717.8837 | Sam Path Petting Zoo Website
Jackson Farm: Sprinkle’s Mobile Petting Zoo
Right across the border in Western North Carolina, Jackson Farm will bring the zoo to you with their mobile petting zoo full of sweet animals like goats, unicorns, and bunnies. 828.273.9586 | Jackson Farm Sprinkle’s Mobile Petting Zoo Facebook
Inside: WNC Day trips you can take with your family.
Are you trying to fit a couple of day trips in? NC mountains, small towns, hiking trails, and waterfalls should definitely be on your to-do list when creating your itinerary for your upcoming day trips in WNC.
Here is our list of popular year-round day-trip destinations in Hendersonville, Asheville, and Brevard for families. This list includes everything from museums for kids to outdoor activities and much more! Plus, it’s just a short drive to all of these destinations from Upstate, South Carolina.
This guide is intended as a reference. While we will update it as necessary, the prices and hours listed here should always be verified by checking the official websites.
Greenhouse at the NC Arboretum
Day Trips in WNC: Asheville, NC
Enjoy the views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, visit an art gallery or two, and grab some delicious food while taking a day trip to Asheville, NC!
For more fabulous things to do and places to eat in Asheville, NC, don’t miss our Guide to Asheville, NC.
Biltmore Estate
Hours: Vary by attraction. Shop, dining, and other location and activities vary. Holiday hours will be listed on the website. Admission: Admission to the Biltmore House for adults (16 and up): starts at $80. Prices vary based on season and events Note: Discounts are available on the Biltmore website for advance purchase tickets. Website:Biltmore Estate Kidding Around® Review: Travel Review on Biltmore.
Asheville Botanical Gardens
Hours: Garden: Open dawn to dusk, 365 days a year Visitor Center: Open most afternoons (varies by month; see website for details). Admission: Free (donations encouraged) Website: Botanical Gardens
Asheville Museum of Science
Hours: Sunday: 1 – 5 pm Monday – Saturday: 10 – 5 pm Admission: $11.50 per person. Children 2 & under Free Website:Asheville Museum of Science
Folk Art Center
Hours: Open daily: 10 am – 5 pm Admission: Free Website:Folk Art Center
Grove Park Inn
Visit Asheville’s historic inn for overnight accommodations, dining, craft beer options, special events, or just to tour. One of Grove Park Inn’s most recognized events is the National Gingerbread House Competition. Website:Grove Park Inn
Beautiful gardens, with many water features and paths to roam. Kids will love the working model train outdoor display (April – October only). The garden is found close to the entrance of the Blue Ridge Parkway. Hours: 8 am – 9 pm | Building and special exhibit hours vary Admission: Free (parking costs $20 per personal vehicle) Website:North Carolina Arboretum
Splasheville in Pack Square Park
Pack Square Park is a 6.5-acre public park in downtown Asheville. It houses Splasheville, a play place of water fountains that is exciting for kids of all ages. Hours: Fountain: 9 am – 8:30 pm during warm weather. Admission: Free Facebook:Asheville Parks & Recreation
Hours: Monday – Friday at 11 am, 1 pm, 3 pm; Saturday at 11 am Admission: Tours: $12/adult; $8/child ages 7 – 12; Free for ages 6 and under Website: KA review of French Broad Chocolate Factory
Zen Tubing
Hours: Check the Zen Tubing website for specific hours and days open. Subject to change frequently Admission: $30+ per person with a tube. Bring your own tube for $25 per person Website:KA review of Zen Tubing
Explore Downtown Asheville
Exploring the downtown area of Asheville is a day trip in itself. There are lots of unique shops, plenty of restaurants to choose from, and you may even catch a drum circle at Pack Square. Learn more from our downtown adventure in Asheville, and how you can see it all on a trolley ride.
Learn why Hendersonville is known for its historic streets, unique shopping, and fantastic dining optionsin this handy guide.
VisitOur Apple Picking Guidefor our report about apple picking in the Hendersonville area, including popular destinations such as Sky Top Orchard.
Carl Sandburg Home
Carl Sandburg Home and Goat Farm
Hours: See alerts for the latest hours. Closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day Admission: Free to visit grounds, trails, and barns; 10 am – 4 pm daily Guided house tours: Call ahead* Website: KA review of the Carl Sandburg home Carl Sandburg Home and Goat Farm
This scenic overlook is easy to access and has an interesting legend that has been passed down for around 300 years. Hiking and picnic spots are also nearby. Note: Some of the hiking is a little steep for young children, but the overlook itself is easily accessible. Admission: Free Website:Jump Off Rock Kidding Around® Review of Jump Off Rock
Hours: Open year-round, Contact the farm directly for hours and reservations Admission: $30 per person; Llama hikes are between $50 – $75 Contact ellaberryllamafarm@gmail.com or 828.606.3577 to make reservations Website: KA review of Ellaberry Llama Farm
Holmes Educational State Forest
Hours: March through October 31 Tuesday-Friday 9 am – 5 pm Saturday & Sunday 11 am – 6 pm
November through February Tuesday-Friday 9 am – 5 pm Saturday & Sunday Closed
Hours: Tuesday – Saturday: 9 am – 5 pm Admission: Adults/Children: $8 Website:Kidsenses Museum
Jeter Mountain Farms
Hours: Apple Season: July – August; Saturdays and Sundays 10a-5p Late August – Late October; Thursdays + Fridays 10a-3p and Saturdays + Sundays 10a-5p Christmas Season: Select dates from 10 am – 5 pm Admission: Free to visit the farm, but prices for activities and u-pick vary. Website:KA review of Jeter Mountain Farm
Justus Orchard
Hours: Monday – Thursday from 9 am – 5 pm; Friday – Sunday 9 am – 6 pm Admission: Free admission They have a taproom, apple picking, berry picking, and a fun play area for kids. Kidding Around® Review of Justus Orchard
Hours: June – August for the annual fairy garden through the gardens The fairy market is mid-June to August Open year-round Monday – Saturday; 9 am to 4 pm Admission: Free, donations accepted Website:KA Review of Bullington Gardens
Bullington Garden Fairy Market
Day Trips in NC Mountains: National and State Parks
If you are thinking about an outdoor adventure, WNC is the place! These mountain towns have lots of things to do in their local, national, and state parks, from mountain biking trails, beautiful waterfalls, or just an easy hike for the kids to enjoy. Many are less than an hour’s drive from each other, so you can visit more than one on your day trip.
Chimney Rock
Hours: Vary by season (see website) Admission: Adults (over 15): $17 | Children (5-15): $8 | Under 5: Free Website: KA review of Chimney Rock
DuPont State Forest
DuPont State Forest includes Triple Falls, High Falls, Hooker Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, Wintergreen Falls, and Grassy Creek Falls. You can mountain bike, hit the hiking trails, and play in the river here. Website: KA review of DuPont State Forest DuPont State Forest
Lake Lure Beach and Water Works
Currently closed for repair due to Hurricane Helene. The surrounding area has plenty of shops and restaurants open, the lake itself does not have any water activities, and the beach is closed until further notice.
Nantahala National Forest
Enjoy camping, hunting, fishing, swimming, boating, hiking, horseback riding, picnicking, and more in the 531,000-acre Nantahala National Forest.
Check out this gorgeous swimming hole at Midnight Hole
Bryson City is right nearby, where you’ll find shopping and the GSMR.
Learn more about Bryson City, North Carolina near the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. You will find lots of awesome things to do there in our handy guide!
Pisgah National Forest
Pisgah National Forest is over 500,000 acres, which includes trails, waterfalls, picnic areas, camping, scenic drives, and the Davidson River (an excellent place for tubing).
Highest waterfall east of the Rocky Mountains Hours: Dawn until dusk, daily Admission: $3 per vehicle with less than seven passengers or $1 per person for more than seven passengers Website:Whitewater Falls
What day trip destinations in Western North Carolina would you add to our list?
