Indoor

The Upstate’s FIRST indoor playground and party event center is right here in Easley, SC! Too hot outside? Raining with kids full of energy? Need a comfy seat and a delicious coffee while your kids play safely in sight? We have the SPOT for you! Designed with parents in mind, smaller, cleaner, and more personal, your kids will have a blast while you relax with coffee and snacks at your fingertips. Our friendly staff is always ready to entertain, and our monthly calendar is packed with fun and educational events. It’s a must-see for yourself experience!

• Best For: Families with kids ages 0–10
• Ages: 0–10 years old
• Price: Ages 1 & under FREE (with paying sibling)
  Weekdays $10.95–$12.95
  Weekends $15.95–$17.95
• Membership: $58/month covers all kids in the household and includes unlimited play 7 days a week!
• Parking: FREE
• Pro Tip: Gripper socks are required for all walking children; grab a pair on-site for $3!

Top Questions Parents Ask About KPC:

Is it clean?  The space is intentionally designed smaller for easier, more thorough cleaning.
Can parents play too? Absolutely. Parents are welcome inside any of the play structures (socks required!).
Is there food and coffee? Yes! Specialty coffee, energy drinks, light snacks, and healthy lunch options are available on-site. Free Wi-Fi too!
Are there any discounts? Military, First Responders, and Teachers receive 10% off. Sibling discounts are available, too!
What are the hours? Open 7 days a week! Mon 10–3 | Tue 8–3 | Wed–Thu 10–7 | Fri–Sat 10–8 | Sun 12–6

SCCT is the largest children’s theatre in South Carolina, serving over 30,000 children and their families annually through performances, theatre classes, residencies, school tours, and outreach programs. SCCT envisions a community where ALL children experience the transformational impact of theatre, nourishing creativity, growing empathy, and inspiring confidence. We hope you and your family will join us in the fun!

• Best For: Families with kids of all ages
• Ages: 3+ for most productions, Tell-Me-A-Story Theatre is best for preschool and early elementary
• Price: Varies by production; cheaper ticket options are available with Pay What You Can tickets.
• Season Packages: Available through Flex Packages
• Pro Tip: Tell-Me-A-Story lobby performances are FREE,  a perfect intro to theatre for younger children.

Good to Know- Questions about SCCT Performances

Is seating assigned? Bell Stage: Yes, seats are chosen at purchase. Younts Stage: general admission, with floor spots for kids to enjoy up close.
How does parking work? SCCT’s lot is $5 per vehicle on performance days, with street parking and additional paid lots nearby.
How early should we arrive? Doors open 30 minutes before showtime. Aim to arrive at least 15 minutes early.

Location: Downtown Greenville, 153 Augusta Street, Greenville, SC | Learn more about the South Carolina Children’s Theatre

We have seen several shows at SCCT, and each time I am in awe of how much work goes into these productions. The costumes, the set design, the acting, is all fantastic. My kids love them, I love them, they are great! We try to snag “pay what you can tickets” to help with the cost, and I am glad we are able to afford it. Both my kids are into theatre now because of it.

— Erin G.

Voted #1 Escape Room in the US for 2025, step into a world of unforgettable fun at Escape Artist Greenville, where you become the hero of your own real-life adventure! Solve puzzles, uncover clues, and find hidden items to save the day. These private games are designed for groups of 4–8, making them the perfect bonding experience for families looking for quality, crowd-free time in downtown Greenville. While portions of the challenges require adult minds, you’ll be amazed at what your kids can solve! Start your family’s next big adventure at Escape Artist Greenville!

• Best For: Families, date nights, and group adventures
• Ages: 6+ recommended; must be 16+ without an adult
• Price: Classic experiences from $32/ticket | Premium from $36/ticket (groups of 4+)
• Hours: Thursday-Monday, starting at 12:00 PM
• Parking: Free onsite parking at both locations
• Pro Tip: Arrive 15 minutes early. The lobbies have pre-show elements that set the stage for your adventure!

Top Questions Parents Ask about Escape Artist Greenville:

Is it scary? Most experiences are not scary,  think Goonies or Indiana Jones, not horror. The Starlight Motel and Dark Lullaby are the only two scary options.
Will we be locked in? Never, you can exit at any time. Safety is always the top priority.
Is it private? All bookings are private; you’ll only play with the people you bring.
What age is appropriate? Kids of all ages are welcome with an adult, though the recommended age is 6+. Children 5 and under are not permitted in the two horror experiences.

Locations: Downtown: 209 E. Stone Avenue, Greenville, SC 29609 | Hampton Station: 1320 Hampton Avenue, Bay 11C, Greenville, SC
Find out more about Escape Artist Greenville 

Roper Mountain Science Center is the place to bring your family for a hands-on and engaging experience, offering a 62-acre campus with a Planetarium, Marine and Ecology labs, a Nature Exchange program, an indoor Rainforest, Living History Farm, Dinosaur Adventure Trail, and Environmental Science Center. Regardless of age, you’ll find engaging activities and fun for everyone to enjoy.

Best for: Families with kids ages 3–16 · Science enthusiasts · Visitors of all ages
Ages: 3+ (laser shows best for ages 5+)
Price: Family Membership from $155/year · Individual event tickets vary per event
Parking: Free parking lot on site
Standout: Planetarium, Dinosaur Adventure Trail, marine touch tank, and indoor rainforest
Pro tip: Always check ropermountain.org before visiting.  Because Greenville County Schools owns the campus, public access is event-based only, and walk-ins aren’t an option.

Top questions parents ask about Roper Mountain Science Center

What are the best exhibits for kids? Harrison Hall features a marine touch tank, live snakes, and an indoor rainforest. Outside, the Dinosaur Adventure Trail has life-sized models. The Nature Exchange, where kids trade found rocks and shells for fossils and crystals, is an overall favorite.
When is RMSC open to the public? Public events include Friday Starry Nights, Afternoon Explorations (Sept–May), Summer Adventure (Late May – July), and holiday and summer laser shows.
Is a membership worth it? At $155/year, it covers regular public events plus the ASTC Passport Program, free or discounted entry at 300+ science centers and museums nationwide.
Is the campus stroller- and wheelchair-friendly? Most buildings have ramps and elevators, but the main parking lot has a steep hill to the entrance. Use the front loop at the Harrison Hall of Environmental Science to drop off before parking.

Location: 402 Roper Mountain Road, Greenville, SC 29615 | Visit ropermountain.org to see the current event schedule

My family loves to go to Roper Mountain Science Center! There are so many options for our different, many interests. Our favorites are the planetarium to see the 4K space shows and the touch tanks with sting rays.

— Tori D.

Hockey returns this October in the Upstate, and the Greenville Swamp Rabbits are bringing the fun, the thrills, and the whole family along for the ride. From themed nights to postgame fireworks, there’s always a reason to make it a family night out this season.

Best For: Families with kids of all ages
Price: Starting at $23/ticket with the Pepsi Family 4-Pack
Parking: Arrive early; nearby lots and garages are available around the Bon Secours Wellness Arena.
Pro Tip: Bring headphones for younger kids, the goal horn is LOUD!

Top Questions Parents Ask:

Best age for kids? All ages welcome, even toddlers love the music, mascot, and energy.
Bag policy? Clear bags required. Arrive early if packing kid essentials.
Parking tips? Nearby lots and garages work well, but arrive early to secure lower-level garage parking and beat post-game congestion.
Family pricing? The Pepsi Family 4-Pack includes tickets, hot dogs, chips, and drinks starting at $23/ticket.
Is it loud? Yes! Consider earmuffs for toddlers or noise-sensitive kids.
Meet the mascot? Stomper is a fan-favorite on themed nights, great photo ops for little ones! Stomper regularly walks through the crowd

Such a great time. We love taking our kids to the Swamp Rabbits games, they are becoming quite the fans of hockey, plus we love trying to get on the big screen and meeting Stomper. Sunday games are great because they start early.

— Sam G.

Climb @ Blue Ridge has been providing some of the best indoor climbing in the Upstate since 1995. Their passion is encouraging everyone to experience the sport of climbing — accessible and fun for beginners and kids, but challenging enough for the most experienced climbers. Looking for a healthy, challenging, and invigorating activity for the whole family? Climbing is a great full-body workout that’s family-friendly and fun. Give it a try, and you’ll be hooked!

• Best For: Families, beginners, and experienced climbers alike
• Ages: All ages welcome
• Price: Kids Day Pass (ages 0–10) $10 full access / $8 bouldering
  Adult Day Pass $14 full access / $10 bouldering
  Gear rentals are $3 each
• Membership: Starting at $55/month for adults; child, student, and family memberships available
• Hours: Mon & Sun 4–10 pm | Tue–Fri 12–10 pm | Sat 10 am–10 pm
• Pro Tip: Day passes include full gym access for the entire day, come and go as you please!

Top Questions Parents Ask about Climb @ BR

Is it safe for my child? Staff are experienced and hands-on with beginners. Auto-belays are available, staff assist new climbers every step of the way, and belay service is available for $20/hour if needed.
What ages can climb, and is it beginner-friendly? All ages are welcome, and zero experience is needed. Kids ages 0–10 have their own day pass pricing, and staff are there to help every age get started.

Location: 301 Bulls Rd, Taylors, SC 29687 | Find out more about Climb @ BR

Wow! CBR is such an extremely welcoming gym community. There’s no judgment, just lots of support. My kids have enjoyed their homeschool classes over the years, and I am so thankful for their women’s group: Beta-Babes. There is something for everyone. They sparked a love of climbing that I didn’t know I had!

— Maria B.

Looking for an indoor place to play AND learn?! The Children’s Museum of the Upstate, with locations in both Greenville and Spartanburg, is THE go-to family destination for indoor exploration! TCMU-Greenville offers 80,000 square feet of play-based learning across three floors, while TCMU’s downtown Spartanburg location houses 10,000 square feet across two floors focused on early childhood development and Kindergarten readiness. Exhibits and free weekly programs at both locations are designed to encourage hands-on discovery, intentional learning, and unforgettable family fun.

• Best For: Families with children of all ages
• Ages: TCMU Greenville: ages 0–12 | TCMU Spartanburg: ages 0–6
• Price: TCMU Greenville: General Admission $20 | SC Resident $15 | Under 1 free | EBT/WIC $5 | Educator, Military, Senior $12
• Price: TCMU Spartanburg: General Admission $15 | SC Resident $10 | Under 6 months free | EBT/WIC $5 | Educator, Military, Senior $8
• Membership: $150+, includes unlimited visits to both locations
• Hours: Tue–Sat 9 am–4:30 pm | Sun 11 am–4:30 pm | Closed Mondays (Aug–May) | Open 7 days a week in June & July
• Parking: Greenville: Heritage Green parking deck nearby | Spartanburg: Magnolia Street Parking Garage (first 15 min free, then $0.50/hr up to $4)
• Pro Tip: Plan for at least 3 hours in Greenville — three floors means there’s always more to explore!

Top Questions Parents Ask About TCMU:

Can we leave and come back? Yes! Admission covers all-day exploration. You’ll get a sticker at check-in to re-enter during museum hours.
Are strollers allowed? Absolutely, stroller parking is available at both locations.
Is it accessible? Yes, both museums are fully wheelchair and ADA accessible, with elevators and accessible bathrooms. Sensory backpacks available upon request.

Two TCMU Locations:
Greenville: 300 College Street, Greenville, SC 29601 | 864.233.7755
Spartanburg: 130 Magnolia Street, Spartanburg, SC 29306 | 864.586.2904

Learn more about TCMU Greenville and TCMU Spartanburg

Teaches Archery to children and adults, with classes throughout the week. They also offer open range time and private instruction.

Birthday party package prices start at $255 for 1.5 hours of instruction

• includes up to 12 archers
• parties can be held on Saturday
• best for older children and teens

🎯 Check out our Kidding Around Review of Upstate Archery.

A fun, welcoming art studio where kids and families can explore creativity and approachable art- making for all ages through hands on classes, camps, and events! 

We realize many people have never rock climbed before, but we are excited to introduce this growing sport in a controlled, indoor environment.

Beginners and advanced climbers are all welcome!

Looking for an exciting place to host your next party? Looking to celebrate a birthday? Need a fun, exciting space for a group event? We have space to host over 40 people!

Great Escapes Inman offers one-of-a-kind escape experiences written by the owners. Escape rooms are recommended for ages 8 & up and can accommodate 2-6 players at a time.

Locations:

• 33 North Main Street
  Inman, SC 29349
  864.515.1322

Visit the Great Escapes Inman website for more information.

The Greenville County Museum of Art also offers family-friendly Sunday programs at 2 pm as well as occasional children’s art workshops and camps. There is no admission fee to visit this museum!

The Johnson Collection (TJC) is an art gallery in downtown Spartanburg which showcases rotating exhibits from the Johnson family’s collection. These curated exhibits aim to highlight the history and diversity of the South, and they are FREE to view by the public on Wednesday-Saturday from 12 to 4pm.

Location:

• 154 West Main Street
  Spartanburg, SC
  864.594.5840

As “a museum without walls,” The Johnson Collection also loans pieces to display at various sites around the City of Spartanburg. Find a convenient map and list of its works available to view in Spartanburg on The Johnson Collection website.

For more information, visit The Johnson Collection website.

Kangaroo Jax is a bounce house facility located in Greenville, SC. They offer unlimited play with admission pricing, including the indoor carousel and kiddie Ferris wheel! Read our full review of Kangaroo Jax!

Offers: Golden Lanes and Skate offers 32 lanes for bowling, as well as a roller skating rink, Tiki Bar, and pool tables.

The Pickens County Library System offers a variety of free programming, events, and classes at four branches throughout Pickens County. Educational computer games for children, an extensive collection of literature and audio, and a unique “Library of Things” rental program of games and toys are available. 

Hampton Memorial Library- 304 Biltmore Road, Easley, SC 29640

Village Library- 124 N Catherine St., Pickens, SC 29671

Sarlin Library-15 S Palmetto St., Liberty, SC 29657

Central-Clemson Library- 105 Commons Way, Central, SC 29630

This unique entertainment option offers axe throwing, including lessons, arcade games, and a smash room.

Location:

• 216 South Main Street
  Woodruff, SC 29388
  864.670.5262

Find out more at the Wolverine Axe Throwing website.

With a Lego® table and kids’ reading nooks, Barnes and Noble is a great place to stop on a rainy day. Plus, you can enjoy a coffee at the indoor Starbucks while your kids play.

Bonus: Free Story Time most Tuesdays and Thursdays at 10 am.

Upstate Pinball & Arcade Museum in Simpsonville has some of the best games from the 80s and 90s. With over 50 games including pinball, Pac-man, and ice hockey foosball, you’re sure to have a blast.

Birthday party package prices start at $238.50 for 15 guests

• Saturday and Sunday party times available
• 2 hours of free play

The Treehouse Cafe and Studio offers sandwiches, sides, coffee and treats with toys, coloring, painting and crafts for children and families. An art teacher is available to work with your child on crafts and painting projects you can purchase at the studio.

See our review of the TReehouse Cafe and Studio.

Hot Wheels Skating Center offers roller skating and an arcade.

Location:

• 2345 South Pine Street
  Spartanburg, SC 29302
  864.573.5922

Visit the Hot Wheels Skating Center website for more information.

The museum offers a beautiful display of fossils, minerals, and rocks. Located at Clemson University, the museum houses both geological and paleontological exhibits. In addition, a display of fluorescent rocks that seems like magic will thrill the entire family!

For animal lovers on rainy, cold days, you can always take your kids to an indoor zoo…also known as a pet store!

Location:

• 1931 East Main Street, Suite D
  Spartanburg, SC 29307
  864.542.2350

Find out more on the Petco website.

This skate center in nearby Union County is only 30 minutes from the heart of Spartanburg and offers public skating parties, plus open roller skating times weekly. Hours and pricing are subject to change, so call to confirm details before visiting.

Location:

• 1754 Cross Keys Highway
  Union, SC 29379
  864.427.4255

Find out more from the Union Skate Center on Facebook.

This giant trampoline park with locations in Greenville and in Spartanburg includes a rock wall, jousting, a ninja course, a laser maze, a slam dunk basketball area, a foam pit, a zip-line, a toddler area, and much more! They also offer special toddler times, birthday parties, and group events.

Birthday Parties: Choose from 60, 90, or 120 minute jump party packages to fit your party’s needs. From pizza & drinks, to dedicated party host & clean-up – it’s ALL INCLUDED! All you do is bring the cake and enjoy the party!

Homeschool: During the school year, Big Air Greenville & Big Air Spartanburg offer discounted admission for Mid-Day Madness. Don’t forget your Big Air grip socks, $3 to purchase if needed!

Field Trips: Big Air Trampoline Park is the ultimate destination for your next field trip. The parks are full of fun and unique attractions that won’t be found anywhere else in the Upstate.

Locations:

• Big Air Greenville
  36 Park Woodruff Dr
  Greenville, SC 29607
  864.626.5252
• Big Air Spartanburg / Arena X
  660 Spartan Blvd, Suite 200
  Spartanburg, SC 29301
  864.580.6462

Find out more on the Big Air website.

Located in Simpsonville, Palmetto Gymnastics offers gymnastics & ninja classes, birthday parties, field trips, and summer camps.

Birthday Parties: Parties at Palmetto Gymnastics include gym time and time for refreshments. Various packages are available for both structured gym time and non-structured gym time.

Chapman Cultural Center is home to several local museums, Ballet Spartanburg, and the Spartanburg Little Theatre.

Location:

• 200 East St. John Street
  Spartanburg, SC 29306
  864.542.2787

Find out more on the Chapman Cultural Center website.

Offers: Bowling, Escape Rooms, Laser Tag, a Game Zone as well as a full restaurant!

A family-owned bowling center with 20 lanes, offering affordable standard rates, group rates, and party packages. The facility also houses an arcade, billiards, and air hockey along with a snack bar and grill. 

The Judson Mill Play Cafe is a 14,500 square feet indoor playground and cafe combo.

Three birthday party packages available.

• The Fabulous Fiesta- $299 + tax
• The Pizza Party Pack- $399 + tax
• The Biggest Bash- $599 + tax

Basic package and up includes a private party room, all-day play passes, and grip socks.
This is a no-nut facility

Game Kastle offers a fresh new alternative for gamers to shop for the latest titles and accessories, play casual games together, or compete in tournaments. They hold classes on building or painting game miniatures and terrain, as well as learn-to-play new games.

Lee’s Indoor Playhouse offers indoor bounce houses and tiny towns to explore. They offer unlimited playtime with admission tickets, birthday parties, parents’ nights out, toddler times, and more.

Offers: Paint your own pottery with drop-in times, story time and other events, group events and camps.

Offers: Combine shopping with fun, by heading to the Haywood Mall. The playground is a great place to let kids get out their wiggles.

The Painted Palmetto is a family-friendly art studio offering children’s art classes, adult art classes, open studio days, and birthday parties for people of all ages.

Location:

• 200 Ezell Street
  Spartanburg, SC 29306
  864.285.0220

For more information, visit The Painted Palmetto website.

Spartanburg’s own Regal movie theater can be found on the west side of town right behind WestGate Mall. From matinees to movie nights, grab some popcorn and pick your flick!

Location:

• 855 Spartan Boulevard
  Spartanburg, SC 29301
  844.462.7342

Find movies and purchase tickets on the Regal Spartan website.

Peach Rail Tavern & Hatchet House offers a combined restaurant and axe throwing experience in Inman, SC

Location:

• 32 South Howard Street
  Inman, SC 29349
  864.708.1787

For more information, visit the Peach Rail Tavern & Hatcher House on Facebook.

Foothills Gymnastics and Cheer offers several programs throughout the week for toddlers through 12 year olds.

Birthday party packages are available on Saturdays. Prices start at $195 for 10 children
A private room for food and dessert is available.
Parties are 1.5 hours long.

The museum offers an extensive Heritage Collection. There are quarterly rotating exhibitions with artifacts and antiquities that allow visitors to examine the rich history of Pickens, South Carolina’s art and historical pieces. Admission is free. 

This restaurant offers New York style pizza and one of Spartanburg’s largest arcade spaces on its second floor.

Location:

• 400 East Main Street
  Spartanburg, SC 29302
  864.582.4200

Visit the Venue Pie Pizzeria website for more information.

Multiple escape room options for all ages include 8 options. Some escape rooms can accommodate groups of 10+ people.

For animal lovers on rainy, cold days, you can always take your kids to an indoor zoo…also known as a pet store!

Location:

• 150 East Blackstock Road, Suite A
  Spartanburg, SC 29301
  864.576.8868

Find out more on the PetSmart website.

We are an organic coffee bar and a large event space! We also are known for Old Post’s Vintage Makers’ Market that we hold every fall and spring!

Offers: Mini golf, go-karts, indoor playground, laser tag, batting cage, arcade, bumper boats, and more. Priced per attraction.

Indoor Fun: Video arcade games for all ages, including a dining space.

Birthday Parties: Kid’s birthday parties for all ages with kid-friendly food.
Party package prices start at $19.99 per child (with plans up to $39.99)

Bloc Haven is an indoor climbing facility for all ages

Paint your own pottery studio offering pottery painting, canvas painting, and glass fusing. The studio offers specialized rates for birthday parties, groups, fundraisers, and after-hour events.

Birthday party prices start at $12 per child with a $30 party fee during normal hours
Parents can bring snacks, drinks, and dessert for the party.

We’re an indoor softball and baseball training facility, offering lane rentals, HitTrax (softball/baseball simulator), lessons, and birthday parties.

You can find free events for kids almost every day at the Greenville Library system, just don’t forget to grab a couple of bucks for parking if you head downtown. These events are not just fun, but also help your children develop literacy skills. We list most of the Greenville Library events for kids on our Greenville Calendar, but you can also check the calendar on the Greenville Library website or grab one of their free bi-monthly magazines.

In addition to the daily programming, the Greenville Main Library has a PAL Learning Center full of educational toys for children. The individual branches also have hands-on learning stations and computers for children.

Anderson Road Branch – 2625 Anderson Road, Greenville
Augusta Road Branch – 100 Lydia Street, Greenville
Berea Branch – 111 N Hwy 25 Bypass, Greenville
Five Forks Library Branch – 104 Sunnydale Drive, Simpsonville
Fountain Inn Library Branch – 311 N Main Street, Fountain Inn
Greer Branch – 505 Pennsylvania Avenue, Greer (currently closed for expansion/renovation – should reopen fall 2019)
Hughes Main Branch – 25 Heritage Green Place, Greenville
Mauldin Branch – 800 W Butler Road, Greenville
Pelham Road Branch – 1508 Pelham Road, Greenville
Simpsonville Branch – 626 NE Main Street, Simpsonville
Taylors Branch – 316 W Main Street, Taylors
Travelers Rest Branch – 17 Center Street, Travelers Rest

Learn more about the Greenville Library’s digital and streaming collection, free and accessible from your own home, in our KA article! 

This local museum offers family programming, public art exhibits, and more. Admission is free, but donations are accepted.

Location:

• 200 East St. John Street
  Spartanburg, SC 29303
  864.978.1429

Find out more on the Spartanburg Art Museum website.

Boutique bowling alley located near downtown Greenville, offers six bowling alleys, dining and bar,
If requesting reservations, a 3-lane minimum is required.
Rates depend on the time of day/day of the week.

Birthday Parties: Private or semi-private party rentals are available. Contact the venue for specific rates.

The Anderson County Library system offers special events, storytime, a seed library, Book-a-Librarian (for that much-needed help with literally anything), and so much more! Branch information can be found below:

Anderson County Main Library – 300 N. McDuffie St, Anderson
Belton Branch Library – 91 Breazeale Street, Belton
Iva Branch Library – 203 W. Cruette Street, Iva
Jennie Erwin Branch Library – 318 N. Shirley Avenue, Honea Path
Lander Memorial Branch Library – 925 Greenville Drive, Williamston
Pendleton Branch Library – 650 S. Mechanic Street, Pendleton
Piedmont Branch Library – 1407 S. Carolina 86, Piedmont
Powdersville Branch Library – 4 Civic Court, Powdersville
Westside Community Center Branch Library – 1100 West Franklin Street, Anderson

The Foothills Playhouse is a non-profit community theatre that offers wholesome, family-friendly classic and original productions.

32 Bowling Lanes, shoe rental, a deluxe arcade, a sports bar, and more!

They have birthday party packages as well.

At the Sigal Music Museum, explore the exciting world of music through exhibitions, concerts, and music classes for both children & adults.

Paradise Lanes & Family Entertainment Center (FEC) is known for its bowling, arcade, pool table, and birthday parties.

Location:

• 469 East Blackstock Road
  Spartanburg, SC 29301
  864.576.0066

Birthday Party Packages:

• start at $15 per person (minimum 10 kids)
• 2-hour party
• shoe rental, place settings, soda, and host included for all packages
• No outside food (except cupcakes and cake)

Offers: An indoor play space for kids aged 0-6 plus cafe.

This game shop in Spartanburg, SC sells news & used video games, and you can find a few arcade machines available to play in the store.

Location:

• 1000 North Pine Street, Suite 40
  Spartanburg, SC 29303
  864.256.1316

Visit The Game Garage on Facebook for more information.

The Spartanburg Science Center is a downtown museum with live animal exhibits, an extensive collection of fossils, bones, rocks and minerals, and engaging children’s activities like engineering challenges. With only $5 admission and Free Family Saturdays once a month, put this place on your list to encourage a love of science in your children!

Birthday Parties: Stare at the stars. Play with robots. Create chemical reactions. Spartanburg Science Center adds intrigue to any birthday party! Whether you’re a kid in age or in your spirit of wonder, celebrate with the Spartanburg Science Center for an extra element of surprise and excitement.

Field Trips: Offers standards-based, hands-on science education for groups aged Kindergarten – 8th Grade. Programs can be held at the Science Center, they can come to you, or you can work with them to arrange field trips to natural habitats.

Homeschool: The Spartanburg Science Center offers grade-level field trip programs in all major fields of science, and they are sometimes able to host homeschool family groups on days when not normally open to the public. Contact jschmid@spartanburgsciencecenter.org with inquiries.

Summer Camps: Be on the lookout for STEAM Summer Camps at the Spartanburg Science Center, featuring a wide array of topics for rising K4 through rising 8th grade. Previous camps have covered animals, LEGO Robotics, Minecraft, coding, pre-algebra readiness, the solar system, nature walks, and much more.

Location:

• 200 East St. John Street
  Spartanburg, SC 29306
  864.583.2777

Visit the Spartanburg Science Center website for more information.

Offers: Indoor Play and Party Center located in Asheville, NC! Ideal for children aged 10 and younger. They are a sock facility, meaning no shoes or bare feet are permitted in the play area.

Check out the Kidding Around Review of Mountain Play Lodge

Offers: Indoor train museum with dozens of custom model trains displays, some of which are interactive where kids can touch, play, and learn.

Wednesday – Saturday: 11 am – 5 pm
Sunday: 1 pm – 5 pm
CLOSED Monday & Tuesday

Craft Axe Throwing is a popular axe throwing chain with locations across the Carolinas.

Upstate SC Locations:

• Greenville, SC
  1320 Hampton Avenue Extension, Suite 5A
  Greenville, SC 29601
  864.301.6032
• Spartanburg, SC
  226 West Main Street, Suite D
  Spartanburg, SC 29306
• Fort Mill, SC
  112 Academy Street
  Fort Mill, SC 29715
  803.906.9242

For more information, visit the Craft Axe Throwing website. 

PurrPoseful Art Studio offers a wide array of art classes for children between the ages of 8 and 18 who have a love for animals and a passion for art! Summer Camps are also available.

Greenville Gemstone Mine offers a place for children and adults to mine for gemstones in Greenville, as well as a unique shop selling jewelry and home decor items.

Two Locations in Greenville: 

205 N Main Street
700 Haywood Rd. #2008

Read our Kidding Around review of Greenville Gemstone Mine.

ReCraft GVL is a creative reuse center for all things that can be used for crafting!
The center offers reuse retail, a Makerspace to make crafts, a donation station, special events, and special programs.
ReCraft works to repurpose and upcycle reusable materials by diverting these materials that would ultimately end up in landfills back into the retail environment in a creative way.

This playground and pubs offer food, and drinks, for all ages until 9 pm, along with a golf/sports simulator, arcade, ax throwing, karaoke, and more.

Located in beautiful Bridgeway Station, BridgeWay Brewing Co. offers families and friends a place to hang out, relax, and have fun together. It’s a place to catch the big game with other fans, play a few rounds of duck-pin bowling with the family, or just kick back and enjoy some delicious food and a house-made beer. If that’s not your thing, they also offer wine and other adult beverages.

McDonald’s is one of the largest fast food restaurants in the entire world, offering burgers, nuggets, fries, and Mc-everythings! Some of their locations offer indoor play places for kids.

Note that some of these play places may have closed since 2020. We recommend calling to confirm any play places before visiting.

Spartanburg Locations with Indoor Play Places (Confirmed in 2025):

• 1917 Boiling Springs Road
  Boiling Springs, SC 29316
  864.599.1427
• 2131 East Main Street
  Spartanburg, SC 29307
  864.256.4142
• 1598 John B. White Sr. Boulevard
  Spartanburg, SC 29301
  864.576;0320

Spartanburg Locations with Indoor Play Places (Unconfirmed since 2020):

• 750 South Alabama Avenue
  Chesnee, SC 29323
  864.461.5300
• 2157 East Main Street
  Duncan, SC 29334
  864.486.8822
• 1392 East Main Street
  Duncan, SC 29334
  864.433.8822
• 308 West Wade Hampton Boulevard
  Greer, SC 29650
  864.879.2612

Visit the McDonald’s website for more information.

This art studio in Spartanburg offers pottery painting and the occasional hands-on clay day, as well as special events.

They offer a wide variety of art classes involving clay and canvases with special kids events and homeschool days. On Fridays throughout the school year, homeschool students are welcome to explore their artistic sides between 11 am and 2 pm–and receive a 20% discount.

Hearts of Clay also offers several birthday party packages. All project materials are included and birthday child receives a special gift. Outside snack & decorations welcome, and Hearts of Clay will clean up the mess.

Location:

• 660 Spartan Boulevard, Suite 200
  Spartanburg, SC 29301
  864.576.2228

Find out more on the Hearts of Clay website.

This restaurant combines a casual kid-friendly experience with pizza and a large arcade space.

Various birthday party packages accommodate a range of party sizes and budgets. All parties include pizza, drinks, and game cards as well as the ticket blaster experience for the birthday child!

Chuck E. Cheese opens two hours early on the first Sunday of the month for Sensory Sensitive Sundays. During these events, lighting and noise will be reduced to accommodate children with special needs, while the usual food and games are available.

Upstate SC Locations:

• Greenville, SC
  253 Congaree Road
  Greenville, SC 29607
  864.297.6400
• Spartanburg, SC
  660 Spartan Boulevard, Suite 250
  Spartanburg, SC 29301
  864.574.4748

For more information, visit the Chuck E. Cheese website.

Offers: Open play gym is the perfect opportunity for small children to get some exercise while having fun.
Read our review of Acrosmith Gymnastics!

Indoor/outdoor rental space; kids eat free every Thursday

We offer a full scale swim lesson experience from Parent and Kiddo class all the way to swim team and triathalon training. We start at 4 months old.

Creative play with inflatables indoors for ages 10 and under. $10.50/child, $8.40/sibling.

Founded in 2017, Escape Room Adventures was the first escape room experience to be established in Spartanburg. They offer several escape rooms with themed related to detective mysteries, treasure hunter adventures, and more.

They also offer virtual reality rooms.

Location:

• 1224 John B. White Sr. Boulevard
  Spartanburg, SC 29306
  864.586.5086

Find out more on the Escape Room Adventures website.

Spartanburg is home to South Carolina’s only NCG Cinema, a movie theater offering next-level comfort in oversized reclining chairs. comfortable seating in oversized reclining chairs. In addition to new movies, they also often offer nostalgic film series over different holidays throughout the year and discounted tickets in the summer.

Location:

• 1985 East Main Street
  Spartanburg, SC 29307
  864.764.1314

Find movies and purchase tickets on the NCG Cinema website.

Check out Spartanburg’s only indoor mini golf venue at Monster Mini Golf near Hillcrest Shopping Center. Have a scary fun time on this black-lit course with larger-than-life monsters and Spartanburg-themed spooks!

Location:

• 141 Fernwood Drive
  Spartanburg, SC 29307
  864.515.1364

Visit the Monster Mini Golf website for details.

Pinky’s Revenge has moved to Downtown Greer, SC!

This video arcade offers pinball machines, dozens of games, and consoles.
Price: $15-$20 play passes

You can also host your birthday at Pinky’s Revenge! Birthday package start at $200. Contact them directly as they transition to the new location.

Trapped in the Upstate offers an immersive blend of entertainment and challenge from two convenient locations in Greer and Spartanburg, each with several escape rooms available to book. These escape rooms are intricately themed to create an experience of intrigue and excitement, perfect for adventure seekers and puzzle enthusiasts.

Preview the different themed rooms available on the Trapped in the Upstate website, and find details on their challenge levels, durations, and group sizes.

Summer Camp: Watch the website for announcements related to Create the Escape Summer Camp, where children can work together to build an immersive escape room. Themes explored include puzzle writing, gamemastering, implementing a theme, and more.

Locations:

• Greer, SC
  556D Memorial Drive Extension
  Greer, SC 29651
  864.416.1539
• Spartanburg, SC
  660 Spartan Boulevard, Space 210
  Spartanburg, SC 29301
  864.256.1623

Find out more on the Trapped in the Upstate website.

Kroc Greenville’s vision is to ensure everyone has access to excellent and affordable youth and adult wellness and community programs. Kick start your membership to our 74,000 square foot facility, and enjoy access to aquatics, fitness, sports, and more!

Offers: Trampoline Park with ropes courses, foam pits, and special Little Leapers toddler times.

Only 30 minutes from the heart of Spartanburg in Cherokee County, The Big E Gaffney offers a movie theater, bowling, arcade, bumper cars, giant indoor playground, laser tag, mini golf, and ropes course.

Location:

• 1100 Factory Shops Boulevard
  Gaffney, SC 29341
  864.489.1515

Visit The Big E Gaffney website for more information.

For animal lovers on rainy, cold days, you can always take your kids to visit the pets in need of homes.

The facility offers a variety of activities, including specialized exercise classes, sports, and aquatics. Affordable memberships and day passes are available. You can locate the recreation center event calendar, pricing, and reservations on their website.

CCRC offers after-school care for children aged kindergarten – 5th grade from 3:00 – 5:30 PM. Offers pick up from Central Elementary and Clemson Elementary.

The facility offers 3 birthday party packages that include:
1. the dining hall with pool party, 2. the dining hall with basketball, or 3. basketball with a pool party.
Membership discounts available.

Offers: Rock Springs Church Bowling Center offers 12 lanes of bowling, as well as bowling parties. Looking for more information? Check out our Kidding Around review of Rock Springs Church Bowling Center.

Fast casual dining restaurant with burgers, hot dogs, and more. Kids meals come with a cookie token for their bakery. All restaurants include an arcade area.

Take a field trip with a Fuddruckers Fuddcility Tour at any of the Upstate SC locations! See how burgers are made, bake bread, get hands-on, and talk over the microphone. The guided tour is free with your group lunch reservation. Best for ages 4-7, and open to daycares and after-school programs. Contact Benji@myfuddruckers.com or richie@myfuddruckers.com about booking a field trip.

Upstate SC Locations:

• Spartanburg, SC
  1509 John B. White Sr. Boulevard
  Spartanburg, SC 29301
  864.576.8329
• Greenville, SC
  1147 Woodruff Road
  Greenville, SC 29607
  864.234.7528
• Anderson, SC
  100 Destination Boulevard
  Anderson, SC 29621
  864.222.0145

Visit the Fuddruckers website for more information.

Offers: Indoor climbing and bouldering with gear rentals as well. Training clinics are also offered.

Hours: Monday: 4 pm–10 pm
Tuesday–Friday: 12 pm–10 pm
Saturday: 10 am–10 pm
Sunday: 4 pm–10 pm

Group Therapy Pub & Playground offers fun activities like wacky mini golf, ax throwing, duckpin bowling, sport simulator, ping pong, and more in addition to food and drink options for the entire family.

This restaurant chain offers a pizza buffet & salad bar. All locations include a small arcade room with one or more machines, usually including at least one crane machine with rubber ducks.

Upstate SC Locations:

• Spartanburg, SC
  2225 East Main Street
  Spartanburg, SC 29307
  864.579.1115
• Spartanburg, SC
  1108 Asheville Highway
  Spartanburg, SC 29303
  864.585.4281
• Duncan, SC
  1517 East Main Street
  Duncan, SC 29334
  864.433.8447
• Greer, SC
  115 West Wade Hampton Boulevard
  Greer, SC 29650
  864.877.7779
• Greenville, SC
  2001 Woodruff Road
  Greenville, SC 29607
  864.281.0929
• Travelers Rest, SC
  515 Roe Center Court
  Travelers Rest, SC 29690
  864.834.1090
• Pickens, SC
  502 Ann Street, Suite V
  Pickens, SC 29671
  864.878.7918

For more information, visit the Pizza Inn website.

Roebuck Family Skate Center offers roller skating, an arcade, and a three-story indoor playground.

Location:

• 989 Old Georgia Road
  Moore, SC 29369
  864.576.8550

For more information, visit the Roebuck Family Skate Center website.

This family-friendly indoor go-karting facility offers an exciting outing.

Locations:

• Greenville, SC
  1524 Roper Mountain Road
  Greenville, SC 29615
  864.412.3323
• Spartanburg, SC
  130 East Daniel Morgan Ave
  Spartanburg, SC
  864.447.4000

Find out more on the Speed Factory Indoor Karting website.

Chick-fil-A is a popular, clean, and family-friendly fast food restaurant. Some locations offer indoor play places for children.

Greenville Locations with Indoor Play Place:

• 1564 Laurens Road
  Greenville, SC 29607
  864.467.0593
• 2801 Wade Hampton Boulevard
  Taylors, SC 29687
  864.322.2300
• 249 Harrison Bridge Road
  Simpsonville, SC 29680
  864.962.5157
• 135 West Butler Road
  Mauldin, SC 29662
  864.297.0262
• 22 Benton Road
  Travelers Rest, SC 29690
  864.834.2230

Spartanburg Locations with Indoor Play Place:

• Chick-fil-A at Hillcrest Shopping Center
  1995 East Main Street
  Spartanburg, SC 29307
  864.577.0801
• Chick-fil-A on Asheville Highway
  1790 Asheville Highway
  Spartanburg, SC 29303
  864.582.0093

For more information, please visit the Chick-fil-A website.

Slime Lab brings creativity to life with safe handmade slime, sensory fun, birthday party packages, DIY kits, and endless colors, scents, and add-ins kids love.

Birthday party packages available

• Slime Lab party package prices start at $350 with a 5-child limit
• You must book online

Wantec Virtual Reality is a video game arcade that offers multiple gameplay options, including a VR arena, Raceroom, VR escape rooms, arvi VR full-immersion games, and more.
The venue also has snack food items for purchase.

Birthday Party Packages are available for Wantec VR

• party package prices start at $379
• 8 – 10 participants.

Offers: Greenville Rec’s Pavilion Recreation Complex offers an indoor ice skating rink and a bounce house facility with a number of bouncing house style equipment for kids to jump.

This boutique bowling alley in downtown Spartanburg offers 8 lanes, a bar, food, and more. After 9pm, only guests aged 21 years old or older are permitted. Lanes are first come, first serve. Birthday party packages are available.

Location:

• 127 West Main Street
  Spartanburg, SC 29306
  864.707.2181

Visit the UnderPin Lanes ‘N Lounge website for details.

Main Event offers bowling, laser tag, tons of arcade games, and virtual reality games, a restaurant, a bar with billiards tables, and lots more.
They host birthday parties, events, and special deals like Kids Eat Free on Tuesdays.

Birthday party packages start at $17.99 per person.

Learn about the history of the Upstate area and enjoy traveling exhibits. There’s usually one traveling exhibit that’s perfect for kids, and the rest of the museum has lots of audio, video, and hands-on sections of exhibits that the whole family will enjoy. You can find a list of their family-friendly events and fantastic exhibits on their website.

Offers: Inflatables and Pre-K only jump time on school day mornings

RELATED: Mom Review: Pump It Up

Spartanburg County Public Libraries offer a full line-up of free programming listed on their website. In addition to storytimes and other free programs, most of these libraries include a children’s area with activities and books.

Learn more in our parent reviews:

• Digital services at the library
• Storytimes at the library
• Things to do at the library
• Maker Labs at Headquarters
• Music Sandwiched In at Headquarters
• Outdoor Playground at Headquarters
• Planetarium at Headquarters

Locations:

• Headquarters Library
  151 South Church Street
  Spartanburg, SC 29306
  864.596.3500
• Boiling Springs Library
  871 Double Bridge Road
  Boiling Springs, SC 29316
  864.578.3665
• Chesnee Library
  100 Pickens Avenue
  Chesnee, SC 29323
  864.461.2423
• Cowpens Library
  181 School Street
  Cowpens, SC 29330
  864.463.0430
• Cyrill-Westside Library
  525 Oak Grove Road
  Spartanburg, SC 29301
  864.574.6815
• Inman Library
  50 Mill Street
  Inman, SC 29349
  864.472.8363
• Landrum Library
  111 Asbury Drive
  Landrum, SC 29356
  864.457.2218
• Middle Tyger Library
  170 Groce Road
  Lyman, SC 29365
  864.439.4759
• Pacolet Library
  390 West Main Street
  Pacolet, SC 29372
  864.474.0421
• Woodruff Library
  270 East Hayne Street
  Woodruff, SC 29388
  864.476.8770

Find more on the Spartanburg County Public Libraries website.

The skate center offers roller skate sessions, private parties, and special events the entire family will enjoy. Open skate times vary throughout the year – check their Facebook for updates.

Greenville’s only place to splatter paint, even glow-in-the-dark paint, all over the place!

We offer an exciting, fun and engaging atmosphere for families and friends to come throw axes, have refreshments, and enjoy each others company.

Offers: 32 lanes of bowling, birthdays, and special event pricing and weekly specials

Spartanburg Memorial Auditorium is a large performing arts venue with frequent shows all year long.

Location:

• 385 North Church Street
  Spartanburg, SC 29303
  864.582.8107

Find out more on the Spartanburg Memorial Auditorium website.

WestGate Mall on Spartanburg’s west side offers a variety of indoor shops and a fun indoor playground near Belk. No unaccompanied minors are permitted at the mall from 4pm until closing on Fridays and Saturdays.

Location:

• 205 West Blackstock Road
  Spartanburg, SC 29301
  864.574.0264

To find out more, visit the WestGate Mall website.

Learn about BMW’s history and see examples of their past vehicles in this Greer museum. The BMW Zentrum Museum’s hours are 9:30 am to 5:30 pm, Monday through Friday.

Guided plant tours are available and great for field trips. Students will have the chance to see how the cars are built, and tours will cover subjects like science, engineering, and history. Plant tours are limited to students ages 12 and up, and closed-toe shoes are required.

Location:

• 1400 SC-101
  Greer, SC 29651
  888.868.7269

Find out more on the BMW Zentrum Museum website.

Come on down to Southernside Brewing Co., the most family-friendly brewery in town!

Bowling alley and arcade available for kids and adults of all ages. Chef-driven kitchen, tons of outdoor space, 10 tvs, 3 projectors and one jumbo-tron!

Walks-ins welcome, or call and book your space today!

Offers: Roller skating with toddler rink

Offers: Visit local artist gallery exhibits Tuesday through Saturday. Each first Friday (6-9 pm), a free art activity is available for children.

This FREE local museum showcases the history of Spartanburg’s railroads with views of local train lines. See trains and models up close! The museum has a restored 1947 Southern Railway caboose and a Thomas the Train table for kids.

Location:

• 298 Magnolia Street
  Spartanburg, SC 29306
  864.278.4453

Visit the Hub City Railroad Museum website for more information.

Offers: Indoor roller skating rink that offers homeschool skate times, open skate, birthday parties, fundraisers, and other special events.