The 2025 KABOOM Awards: Discover Greenville’s Best

Best Overnight Camp- First Place
Best Sports Program- Finalist
Best Youth Organization- First Place
Best Family Membership- First Place
Best Place to Splash or Swim- Finalist
Best After School Program- Finalist
Best Summer Camp- Finalist

For more than a century, the YMCA of Greenville has strengthened the foundations of the community we serve. We’re proud of our diverse population and are passionate about keeping our promise to be a force for good.

We serve people from all walks of life in the Greenville County area through YMCA memberships and programs.

We’re committed to nurturing the potential of children through Youth Development, improving the nation’s health and well-being by promoting Healthy Living, and fostering a sense of Social Responsibility by providing opportunities to give back and support our neighbors.

The YMCA of Greenville, following the example of Christ, builds healthy spirit, mind, and body for all.

The YMCA of Greenville includes the following branches: Caine Halter Family YMCA, Eastside Family YMCA, George I. Theisen Family YMCA, Prisma Health Family YMCA, Verdae YMCA, Life Center YMCA, YMCA Judson Community Center and YMCA Camp Greenville.

Best Newborn Photographer: Finalist

Best Family Photographer: Finalist

We are a boutique indoor/outdoor studio in Taylors, SC. We specialize in photographing kids of all ages. We have lots of fun maternity, newborn, and birthday props to use during your session.

All session fees include an online gallery of 50 plus images. We offer a no stress session with a waiting room full of fun toys, trains, and more for children to play with before and after your session.

Best Youth Organization: Finalist

Girl Scouts bring their dreams to life and work together to build a better world.

Through programs from coast to coast, Girl Scouts of all backgrounds and abilities can be unapologetically themselves as they discover their strengths and rise to meet new challenges—whether they want to climb to the top of a tree or the top of their class, lace up their boots for a hike or advocate for climate justice, or make their first best friends.

Backed by trusted adult volunteers, mentors, and millions of alums, Girl Scouts lead the way as they find their voices and make changes that affect the issues most important to them. To join us, volunteer, reconnect, or donate, visit gssc-mm.org.

Best After School Program – First Place
Best Birthday Party -Finalist
Best Childcare- First Place
Best Indoor Fun – First Place
Best Preschool – Finalist
Best Summer Camp- First Place

Are you looking for somewhere to have your child’s birthday that is indoors but also has lots of room? Check out Giggles!! We have 4600 square feet of indoor play space complete with a treehouse playground.

You can rent the entire facility for you own PRIVATE party. That’s right you don’t have to worry about other kids or people. Parties are held on Sundays when we are closed to the public so you have the whole place to yourself and a party hostess to help with whatever you need. And the best part is that you don’t have to clean up afterwards. Call us to book today! 864-252-4252.

Best Family Theatre: First Place
Best Educational Fun: Finalist

Greenville Shakespeare Company is a nonprofit organization that exists to provide the Upstate of South Carolina and surrounding areas with laugh-out-loud, family-friendly, high-quality, accessible productions of Shakespeare and other classic works of literature. Catch our 25th Anniversary production of Twelfth Night, coming summer 2025!

Don’t take our word for it! Audiences say:

“It. Was. So. Good.” ∙ “Thanks for being our go-to for Shakespeare.” ∙ “Stellar show”!” ∙ “BEST SHAKESPEARE IN THE STATE!”∙“Summer Shakespeare never disappoints.” ∙ “I was all ready not to understand, but when it started, I followed right along!” ∙ “I loved the simplicity of the set design—so fun!” ∙ “This was my first Shakespeare play—and I’m hooked.”

Best Art Studio- First Place
Best Birthday Party- First Place
Best Educational Fun- First Place
Best After School Program- Finalist
Best Baby/Toddler Program- Finalist
Best Summer Camp- Finalist

Yellowbobbypins Art Camp is proud to be named a finalist for Best Afterschool Program in the Upstate! Our weekly afterschool classes for kids ages 4-14 provide a dynamic blend of process art and art history, creating an enriching experience that fosters creativity, critical thinking, and self-expression.

At Yellowbobbypins, we go beyond traditional art lessons, incorporating elements of math, science, and reading into each project. Whether students are exploring the works of famous artists, experimenting with new materials, or diving into creative storytelling, every class is an opportunity for young minds to connect the dots between art and the world around them.

What sets us apart is our emphasis on the process of creating, rather than just the finished product. This approach allows students to embrace exploration, learn from mistakes, and celebrate their individual creative journeys. With a focus on kindness, inclusivity, and collaboration, Yellowbobbypins Art Camp provides a fun, supportive environment where kids can grow, learn, and express themselves through art.

Join us at Yellowbobbypins Art Camp for a drop-in class, weekly classes, or an unforgettable summer camp—where learning becomes an adventure, creativity sparks growth, and the joy of art inspires every moment!

Best Family Membership – First Place
Best Date Night Activity- First Place
Best Playground- First Place
Best Educational Fun – Finalist 
Best Indoor Fun – Finalist
Best Field Trip – Finalist

Roper Mountain is the place to bring your families for a hands-on and engaging experience whether it’s during the school year for field trips or during the summer for Summer Adventure and Summer Camps. Just ask other families in the area about their experiences and you’ll see why Roper Mountain continues to be a “must-see” experience in the upstate and beyond.

The beautiful 62-acre campus contains an array of state-of-the-art educational facilities including a Planetarium and Observatory, Marine and Ecology labs, a Rainforest, a Living History Farm, Dinosaur Adventure trail and a new Environmental Science and Sustainability Center.

Families can attend numerous events throughout the year including Friday Starry Nights, Afternoon Explorations, Summer Adventure, Laser Days of Summer, Summer Exploration Camps, and seasonal holiday laser shows. Regardless of age, you’ll surely find a plethora of engaging activities and fun for everyone to enjoy.

Best Preschool Finalist

Private 1/2 Day Preschool building solid foundations for learning that inspires children to explore, solve problems and work together. Our curriculum offers a combination of Montessori, Reggio Emilia and the Theory of Multiple Intelligences to give each child the most well-rounded experience for them as an individual. Programs offered are for 2-5 year old’s and we do have a Private Kindergarten class!

Best Childcare – Finalist 

Bright futures start here! For 50 years, The Sunshine House has been helping children build a solid educational and social foundation — with all the joy of childhood mixed in!

Our educational childcare programs for children 6 weeks to 12-years-old focus on school readiness, social, emotional and intellectual development, literacy, problem-solving skills, and what every child needs — love and care.

Everything we do focuses on the development of your child — from literacy, math, science, and social studies to social-emotional, physical development, creativity, and self-esteem. More than just a daycare, our early childhood educators implement a nationally recognized, award-winning curriculum to prepare your child for a lifetime of learning!

Our schools feature:
• Cameras in all classrooms
• Photo & video app updates
• Award-winning early childhood curriculum
• School readiness, literacy, sign language, and Spanish programs
• Full-time, part-time, drop-in programs

We’re enrolling now with limited availability at 11 locations in the Upstate. Find a Sunshine House closest to you and schedule a tour today!

Best Family Photographer – Finalist 

I’m Nicole Nodine owner of Branch & Butterfly Photography, an experienced Family Photographer located in the Upstate S.C. who is passionate about capturing unique moments with my signature style. Branch & Butterfly Photography began their venture into photography in 2018 (but the passion goes way back before then) and soon became obsessed with the fundamentals that make a great photograph: lighting, balance, composition and use of space.

Branch & Butterfly Photography captures profound moments with a creative twist. I offer exceptional personal service for each and every one of my clients. I am very blessed to be living out my passion and capturing memories that are surely to last a lifetime.

Best Kids’ Salon – Finalist 

Hello Moms and Dads! At Snip-its Haircuts for Kids children adore our salon for its exciting atmosphere, while parents appreciate the expertise of our kid-focused stylists.

We Speak Kid™ with every haircut adventure! No matter if your kids are fidgety, anxious, or full of energy, our skilled stylists ensure they stay entertained and involved during their haircut. An online check-in with same day visits means we’re ready when you are. Our online check-in opens at midnight each day the salon is open, so you can pick the time that works best for your entire family each day.

Snip-its has been doing this for 30 years! What’s our secret? 2 parts, specially trained rock star stylists and 1 part kid-centric fun! Bright colors, great haircuts, kid-sized chairs, and lots of bubbles make the salon perfect for your little one. And the best part? Our Magic Box and toy surprise at the end of each Haircut Adventure!

Snip-its Haircut for Kids is a magical place for kids’ haircut adventures. Your kiddos will leave feeling great, and you will love our quality hassle-free haircuts. Discover why families return to Snip-its time and time again!

Best Indoor Fun: Finalist
Best Field Trip: Finalist
Best Family Membership: Finalist
Best Educational Fun: Finalist

The Children’s Museum of the Upstate in downtown Greenville offers 80,000 square feet dedicated to play-based learning. It’s the 7th largest children’s museum in the country and offers programming, events, birthday parties, field trips and an on-site retail store.

Best Indoor Fun: Finalist
Best Field Trip: Finalist
Best Family Membership: Finalist
Best Educational Fun: Finalist

The Children’s Museum of the Upstate in downtown Greenville offers 80,000 square feet dedicated to play-based learning. It’s the 7th largest children’s museum in the country and offers programming, events, birthday parties, field trips and an on-site retail store.

Best Gymnastics School -First Place
Best Field Trip- First Place
Best Sports Program- First Place
Best Baby/Toddler Program- Finalist
Best Birthday Party- Finalist
Best Indoor Fun- Finalist
Best Summer Camp- Finalist

Acrosmith Gymnastics offers birthday parties, gymnastics, family fun gym, field trips, parent’s night out, summer camps, and so much more!

Best Public School – Finalist 

Taylors Elementary is a proud Leader in Me Lighthouse School and US News and Report Best Elementary School! We serve approximately 775 students in grades K5-5th from a wide variety of cultural backgrounds.

Each year, as a LIM School, we set Wildly Important Goals (WIGS) to improve our academic performance. These WIGS are measured on an individual and classroom level so that we can meet our annual schoolwide goals. Students participate is school-wide leadership roles and work to implement the Seven Habits in his or her daily life.

Taylors is a diverse learning community with highly qualified faculty and staff who promote student-centered instruction. We strive to identify the strengths and learning needs of all students. Our staff regularly participate in professional development activities, improving their craft to improve student achievement and success.

We offer a wide range of programs and clubs during and after school. Each student has the opportunity to participate in Covey Clubs that interest them at no charge. Our PTA takes an active role in supporting our school initiatives as well as strengthening relationships with local businesses and community members.

Our school belief system embraces every child as a leader with unique genius and talents. We strive to tap into those individual strengths to help them shine! We truly believe “Greatness Starts Here.”

Best Family Theatre- Finalist 

South Carolina Children’s Theatre (SCCT) is proud to be recognized as Best Family Theatre! This honor reflects SCCT’s unwavering commitment to excellence in theatre, education, and community engagement. For over 35 years, SCCT has brought inspiring performances, accessible programming, and transformative theatre experiences to children and families throughout the Upstate.

SCCT is dedicated to fostering creativity, empathy, and a sense of belonging in all who step through its doors. With productions ranging from beloved classics to innovative new works, SCCT provides audiences with opportunities to laugh, learn, and grow together. Beyond the stage, SCCT offers year-round theatre education programs, camps, and outreach initiatives designed to empower young people and ensure that the magic of theatre is accessible to everyone.

Best Cheer Gym – Finalist 

At Designer Athletics, we want to introduce you to a whole new era of cheerleading and tumbling training! We started this program with the belief that athletes of all ages and skill levels should have a place where they could learn and grow not just athletically, but in their personal life as well. Designer Athletics aims to design each athlete from the inside out by training them to be successful at the highest level both personally and athletically!

Our goal is to train every athlete to achieve excellence and greatness while creating a safe, fun and family-oriented environment where
everyone can thrive!

We do this by implementing our core values of DESIGN:

D– Discipline
E– Excellence
S– Strength
I-Integrity
G– Growth
N– Nobility

Designer Athletics offers tumbling classes as well as classes geared towards cheerleading training like jumps, flex, stunting and dance! We train many of the high school teams in the area and we are the only D1 competitive cheer gym in the Upstate! Find us on your app store to view our class schedule, just search “Designer Athletics” and book your first class free today! We can’t wait to see you in the gym!

Best Outdoor Fun – First Place

Best Date Night Activity – Finalist 

Greenville Bike Taxi is a fun, eco- and family-friendly way to experience Downtown Greenville: pedicabs (read, personal 3-wheeled chariots)! Accessible and exciting for all ages and abilities, we offer open-air rides throughout the city, including A-to-B (taxi) rides, extended scenic cruises, hourly chauffeur service for shopping, and more! You tell us where to go and we’ll do the pedaling!

The whole family can ride together too! Our pedicab bench seats are 48 inches wide and can accommodate up to three adults, two adults and two children, or one adult and three children. Need more spots? We have a fleet of pedicabs and will make it happen!

Ready to ride right now? Call 864-293-3065 about 10 minute prior to preferred pickup time. Want learn more about us, have questions, or want to book a tour? Visit our website a www.greenvillebiketaxi.com Hope you’ll roll with us soon!

Best After School Program – First Place
Best Birthday Party -Finalist
Best Childcare- First Place
Best Indoor Fun – First Place
Best Preschool – Finalist
Best Summer Camp- First Place

Does your life not always fit a set schedule? Good news, your preschool doesn’t have to either!

Giggles has a new easy going preschool program that is perfect for your child’s first preschool experience or if you simply need something that can be adapted to your changing schedule. We focus on lesson plans that teach the fundamentals in short, play based activities. For children ages 3-5 who are not yet enrolled in Elementary School.

Our preschool program is just like a daycare or mother’s morning out program, but with a twist. With our program, you choose when to come and for how long. It’s preschool on your schedule. Can’t drop off or pick up at the same time each day? No problem. We are flexible!

Best Overnight Camp- First Place
Best Sports Program- Finalist
Best Youth Organization- First Place
Best Family Membership- First Place
Best Place to Splash or Swim- Finalist
Best After School Program- Finalist
Best Summer Camp- Finalist

For more than a century, the YMCA of Greenville has strengthened the foundations of the community we serve. We’re proud of our diverse population and are passionate about keeping our promise to be a force for good.

We serve people from all walks of life in the Greenville County area through YMCA memberships and programs.

We’re committed to nurturing the potential of children through Youth Development, improving the nation’s health and well-being by promoting Healthy Living, and fostering a sense of Social Responsibility by providing opportunities to give back and support our neighbors.

The YMCA of Greenville, following the example of Christ, builds healthy spirit, mind, and body for all.

The YMCA of Greenville includes the following branches: Caine Halter Family YMCA, Eastside Family YMCA, George I. Theisen Family YMCA, Prisma Health Family YMCA, Verdae YMCA, Life Center YMCA, YMCA Judson Community Center and YMCA Camp Greenville.

Best Art Studio- First Place
Best Birthday Party- First Place
Best Educational Fun- First Place
Best After School Program- Finalist
Best Baby/Toddler Program- Finalist
Best Summer Camp- Finalist

We’re excited to be named a finalist for Best Baby/Toddler Program in the Upstate! Our Wee Create Playgroup (Ages 2-5) offers a fun, nurturing environment where toddlers and preschoolers thrive, with caregivers staying to enjoy a stress-free, joyful playtime together.

In each session, you’ll help your child strengthen gross and fine motor skills, practice prewriting, explore simple science and math, and foster creativity—all while developing social skills and classroom etiquette.

Ready to join the fun? Sign up today on our website and give your little one the gift of creative play and learning at Yellowbobbypins Art Camp!

Best Orthodontist Office: Finalist

Davis Orthodontics offers friendly faces and affordable braces! Since 2011, we have been taking amazing care of our patients, staying on the leading-edge of technology, and making beautiful smiles accessible for all. We believe in building a community of smiles that extends relationships beyond our practice doors and our skilled team strives to make every visit a positive experience with a welcoming atmosphere and patient-first philosophy.

Our doctors are experts in the latest corrective techniques, and we are proud to be among the top 1% of Invisalign providers in the country. We are in-network with most insurance and offer flexible payment plans to make treatment affordable for any budget.

Visit any of our eight Upstate locations to experience the Davis difference and start your journey to a stunning smile. Consultations are FREE and a confident smile is priceless!

Best Gymnastics School-First Place
Best Field Trip- First Place
Best Sports Program- First Place
Best Baby/Toddler -Program Finalist
Best Birthday Party -Finalist
Best Indoor Fun -Finalist
Best Summer Camp- Finalist

Acrosmith Gymnastics offers birthday parties in our 17,000 square foot facility! Your child will swing, jump, climb, and play celebrating their birthday with us!

Best Tutoring Program: Finalist

Sylvan Learning provides personal learning for success that sticks!

Our personalized tutoring provides exactly what your child needs in a way that is best for his/her learning styles and preferences based on an in-depth and adaptive assessment. We create a personal learning plan that “adapts” to your child’s own skill level and pace, so your child feels engaged and motivated – never frustrated, rushed or bored. Results matter and Sylvan delivers.

Parents notice the difference:

“The patience, consistency, and efficiency each tutor has is something that truly has to be experienced.” Brittany M.

“Their approach is not only professional but also compassionate, meeting each student where they are and pushing them toward their full potential.” Miguel R.

We are conveniently located near you in Anderson, Easley, North Main Greenville, Greenville, and Spartanburg. Our directors keep you informed, address any concerns, and provide regular progress assessments. Flexible scheduling and payment options make Sylvan a good fit for your family’s schedule and budget.

Whether your child needs to master foundational skills or learn advanced concepts, we provide the supplemental support that leads to greater learning. You’ll see this impact not only in school, but in all areas of life.

Best Baby/Toddler Program – Finalist
Best Birthday Party – Finalist
Best Dance Studio – Finalist
Best Gymnastics School- Finalist

We are proud to be a Kaboom finalist for Best Baby/Toddler classes, Best Birthdays, Best Gymnastics, and Best Dance Program!

Discover how The Little Gym of Greenville, SC  helps kids of all ages get moving. Our progressive gymnastics program begins at 4 months with Parent/Child classes and grows with your child through Pre-K and Grade School.

Join at any time. Try a class for FREE, today!

Best Real Estate Agent – Finalist 

Erica Simonavice is a dedicated Realtor with the Robby Brady Team in Greenville, SC, helping families across South Carolina’s Upstate find the perfect place to call home. Known for her expertise and attention to detail, Erica guides her clients through every step of the process, making complex decisions simple and stress-free. Whether it’s navigating contracts, understanding the market, or offering design insights, she’s committed to helping her clients make the best choices.

Clients describe Erica as “persistent and dedicated,” often going above and beyond to ensure smooth and successful transactions. She’s praised for her clear communication and ability to handle every detail behind the scenes—working with attorneys, appraisers, and contractors to keep everything on track. Beyond her professional skills, Erica is valued as a trusted partner and friend who truly cares about her clients’ needs. From sharing insights about neighborhoods to recommending local favorites, she helps clients feel at home in every way.

From my family to yours, let’s find home.

Best Urgent Care: Finalist 

At Prisma Health Urgent Care, our mission is to help patients feel valued and well-cared for. We offer best-in-class urgent care services in the greater midlands and upstate, South Carolina area, with certified medical providers who specialize in urgent care medicine, clean modern facilities, and convenient care options built specifically with our patients in mind.

Best Dance Studio – Finalist
Best Baby/Toddler Program – Finalist
Best Summer Camp – Finalist

Southern Dance Connection and Southern Cheer Elite are proud to offer a wide range of classes for children and teens in Greer, SC, where they can learn valuable life skills through movement and performance. With classes for ages 2 through adult, our programs provide the perfect opportunity for students to build confidence, improve fitness, and develop discipline while having fun!

At Southern Dance Connection, we offer ballet, tap, jazz, hip hop, lyrical, and acro dance, taught by experienced instructors who nurture creativity and personal growth. Whether it’s for recreation or the competitive stage, we meet every student where they are, helping them achieve their potential. Our dance students also have the opportunity to be part of exciting performance teams.

Southern Cheer Elite offers tumbling and cheerleading classes for all skill levels, focusing on stunts, jumps, tumbling, and team spirit. Our teams compete at local and national events, creating lasting memories and friendships along the way. Both Southern Dance Connection and Southern Cheer Elite emphasize teamwork, leadership, and perseverance, providing children with the tools they need to succeed both in and outside of the studio and gym. Join us today and see why our students shine!

Best Birthday Party – Finalist
Best Indoor Fun- Finalist
Best Playground- Finalist

Best Hospital: Finalist 

Shriners Children’s Greenville is home to the largest team of pediatric orthopedic surgeons in the Carolinas. Treatment is offered for over 85 different conditions including sports injuries (ACL repair, fractures, sprains and strains), ongoing diagnoses (cerebral palsy, spina bifida, arthrogryposis) as well as scoliosis, clubfoot, hip dysplasia and limb deficiencies.

Consistently ranked among the Top 5 percent of comparable hospitals in the nation, Shriners Children’s focuses on both the child’s physical and emotional well-being. The environment is kid-friendly and interactive, while a team of child life therapists are available to assist throughout the healing journey.

All services – from physical therapy and radiology to orthotics/prosthetics and a motion analysis center – are located under one roof. The charitable mission of Shriners Children’s enables treatment to be afforded to every patient, regardless of a family’s ability to pay; meanwhile, children with insurance are also welcome to receive the award-winning care.

For more information or to request an appointment, visit ShrinersGreenville.org.

Connect with us on social media:

• Facebook: @ShrinersGreenville

• Instagram: @ShrinersGreenville

• Twitter: @ShrinersGVL

Best Gymnastics School- First Place
Best Field Trip- First Place
Best Sports Program- First Place
Best Baby/Toddler Program- Finalist
Best Birthday Party- Finalist
Best Indoor Fun- Finalist
Best Summer Camp- Finalist

Acrosmith Gymnastics offers Family Fun Gym every week year round! Your child will have a blast during this open gym time and experience all the excitement at Acrosmith Gymnastics!

Best Overnight Camp- First Place
Best Sports Program- Finalist
Best Youth Organization- First Place
Best Family Membership- First Place
Best Place to Splash or Swim- Finalist
Best After School Program- Finalist
Best Summer Camp- Finalist

For more than a century, the YMCA of Greenville has strengthened the foundations of the community we serve. We’re proud of our diverse population and are passionate about keeping our promise to be a force for good.

We serve people from all walks of life in the Greenville County area through YMCA memberships and programs.

We’re committed to nurturing the potential of children through Youth Development, improving the nation’s health and well-being by promoting Healthy Living, and fostering a sense of Social Responsibility by providing opportunities to give back and support our neighbors.

The YMCA of Greenville, following the example of Christ, builds healthy spirit, mind, and body for all.

The YMCA of Greenville includes the following branches: Caine Halter Family YMCA, Eastside Family YMCA, George I. Theisen Family YMCA, Prisma Health Family YMCA, Verdae YMCA, Life Center YMCA, YMCA Judson Community Center and YMCA Camp Greenville.

Best Place to Splash or Swim: Finalist

Swim Lessons Save Lives!

And at Goldfish Swim School, we are committed to the mission to make waves for water safety and keep children in our communities safer in and around the water! We are the premiere swim school brand in the country as we deliver the GOLDEN experience to our fishies and families!

Featured at Goldfish:
• Small class ratios
• Engaging and water safe curriculum that delivers the Science of SwimPlay
• Flexible class times
• Multiple membership plans
• 90-degree, shiver-free pool
• Retail, snack, upgraded amenities
• Digital skills evaluations
• Online portal and app
• Family swims
• Special events
• Birthday parties
• FREE community water safety presentations – we are passionate about water safety education! Contact us to book!

In every splash, breath and kick, we teach and embrace water safety. From back floats to treading water, we focus on life-saving skills that make a difference.

One swimmer at a time, we instill a love and respect for the water. At Goldfish Swim School, we do what we do every single day because we know that…

Swim Lessons Save Lives!

Call today at 864-565-8700 or email us swimgreenville@goldfishss.com

Best Local Sports Team: Finalist

The Greenville Drive is the high-A affiliate of the Boston Red Sox and plays at Fluor Field in downtown Greenville. For the last 20 years, our primary goal has been to provide a family-friendly, affordable, and memorable experience for all attendees. Whether you’re coming for the baseball on the field, a birthday celebration, Sweet Caroline’s ice cream or to see Reedy Rip’It, we know that your time at Fluor Field should be as special as it can be! We can’t wait to see you this summer! For tickets, visit www.greenvilledrive.com.

Best Educational Fun: Finalist

Best Field Trip: Finalist

Challenge Island is a local educational franchise that offers STEM enrichment programs such as in-school field trips, summer camps, after-school enrichment, Girl Scout workshops, and more! Our classes offer electronics-free STEAM lessons, but more importantly the kids go through a process- one that takes them through the process of building & designing, and many times learning how to fail & fix it, then testing it again.

Our classes also teach our kids how to work together- how to be a listener as well as how to be a follower. The more opportunities that kids are given to use these skills, the better prepared they will be for the real world, and Challenge Island is a great option for this to happen!

Best Overnight Camp- First Place
Best Sports Program- Finalist
Best Youth Organization- First Place
Best Family Membership- First Place
Best Place to Splash or Swim- Finalist
Best After School Program- Finalist
Best Summer Camp- Finalist

For more than a century, the YMCA of Greenville has strengthened the foundations of the community we serve. We’re proud of our diverse population and are passionate about keeping our promise to be a force for good.

We serve people from all walks of life in the Greenville County area through YMCA memberships and programs.

We’re committed to nurturing the potential of children through Youth Development, improving the nation’s health and well-being by promoting Healthy Living, and fostering a sense of Social Responsibility by providing opportunities to give back and support our neighbors.

The YMCA of Greenville, following the example of Christ, builds healthy spirit, mind, and body for all.

The YMCA of Greenville includes the following branches: Caine Halter Family YMCA, Eastside Family YMCA, George I. Theisen Family YMCA, Prisma Health Family YMCA, Verdae YMCA, Life Center YMCA, YMCA Judson Community Center and YMCA Camp Greenville.

Best Art Studio- First Place
Best Birthday Party- First Place
Best Educational Fun- First Place
Best After School Program- Finalist
Best Baby/Toddler Program- Finalist
Best Summer Camp- Finalist

Yellowbobbypins Art Camp is a kid-favorite and parent-approved summer program, offering a fun and dynamic experience tailored to a variety of interests.

New for Summer 2025!
We’re excited to introduce morning and afternoon camps to better suit your schedule and child’s needs:
– Morning Camps (9:00 AM–Noon): Designed for Ages 4–7
– Afternoon Camps (1:30–4:30 PM):Perfect for Ages 8–12

What Makes Us Special:
– Weekly Themes: Each week brings a new and exciting theme, including:
Interior Design
Circus
Axolotl
Unicorns & Mermaids
Outer Space
Sweet Treats
Magical Makers Academy
Fashion Design
Miniature Marvels

– Age-Appropriate Fun: Each camp is tailored to match the fine motor skills and developmental needs of the participants, ensuring every child has a meaningful and engaging experience.

– Spectacular Art Shows: At the end of each week, campers showcase their amazing creations in an art show, celebrating their hard work and the friendships they’ve made.

Why Parents Love It:
Our camp goes beyond art by fostering creativity, self-expression, and meaningful connections in a safe and enriching environment.

Make summer 2025 an unforgettable experience with Yellowbobbypins Art Camp!

Best Indoor Fun: Finalist
Best Field Trip: Finalist
Best Family Membership: Finalist
Best Educational Fun: Finalist

The Children’s Museum of the Upstate in downtown Greenville offers 80,000 square feet dedicated to play-based learning. It’s the 7th largest children’s museum in the country and offers programming, events, birthday parties, field trips and an on-site retail store.

Best Private School – Finalist

At Saint Joseph’s Catholic School, we’re more than just a private, co-ed day school in South Carolina – we’re a family, rooted in the Roman Catholic tradition, dedicated to shaping students’ minds, hearts, and souls in the image of Christ.

We are an independent Catholic school, approved by the Diocese of Charleston, and proud to be listed in the Newman Guide as a school committed to upholding the standards of faithful Catholic education.

Our vibrant community includes students from 37 zip codes, 24 cities, and six counties, all united by a commitment to academic excellence and personal growth. We offer the College Board’s AP Capstone Program, a curriculum that fosters cross-disciplinary learning and hones skills in analysis, teamwork, and evidence-based argumentation, culminating in students’ proficiency in independent research. Additionally, we offer 22 Honors classes and 10 Honor Societies, ensuring exceptional opportunities for every student to challenge themselves and reach their fullest potential.

Beyond the classroom, our students enjoy a wealth of activities, from 46 sports teams to 64 fine arts opportunities. With 98% of our graduates earning merit-based scholarships, Saint Joseph’s prepares students for success in both college and life.

Best Gymnastics School -First Place
Best Field Trip -First Place
Best Sports Program- First Place
Best Baby/Toddler Program- Finalist
Best Birthday Party- Finalist
Best Indoor Fun- Finalist
Best Summer Camp- Finalist

Join us for our first ever Summer Camp! We are offering 2, 4 day camps this summer! June 23-26 and July 21-24! Be on the lookout for more details to come!

Best Cheer Gym: First Place

Best Gymnastics School: Finalist 

Southern Dance Connection and Southern Cheer Elite are proud to offer a wide range of classes for children and teens in Greer, SC, where they can learn valuable life skills through movement and performance. With classes for ages 2 through adult, our programs provide the perfect opportunity for students to build confidence, improve fitness, and develop discipline while having fun!

At Southern Dance Connection, we offer ballet, tap, jazz, hip hop, lyrical, and acro dance, taught by experienced instructors who nurture creativity and personal growth. Whether it’s for recreation or the competitive stage, we meet every student where they are, helping them achieve their potential. Our dance students also have the opportunity to be part of exciting performance teams.

Southern Cheer Elite offers tumbling and cheerleading classes for all skill levels, focusing on stunts, jumps, tumbling, and team spirit. Our teams compete at local and national events, creating lasting memories and friendships along the way. Both Southern Dance Connection and Southern Cheer Elite emphasize teamwork, leadership, and perseverance, providing children with the tools they need to succeed both in and outside of the studio and gym. Join us today and see why our students shine!