10+ Things to Do in Mount Pleasant, SC

Planning a trip to the Mount Pleasant area? If you’re looking for free things to do in Mount Pleasant, SC, you’ve come to the right spot. We’re sharing our top recommendations for things to do that you will not want to miss on your next trip to the Low Country. From history-rich tours to fun at the waterpark, we’ve got you covered on things to do and even where to eat in Mt. Pleasant.

Planning a trip to the Lowcountry? Here’s your ultimate guide to visiting Charleston, SC – read it before you go!

Want to plan an educational trip to the low country with your family? Discover all things you can learn on a Road Schooling Trip to the Charleston Area.

This article includes:
Free Things to Do in Mt. Pleasant, SC
Cheap Things to Do in Mt. Pleasant, SC
More Things to Do in Mt. Pleasant, SC
Where to Eat in Mt. Pleasant, SC

Free Things to do in Mt. Pleasant, SC

Charleston is a popular destination for residents of the Upstate of South Carolina. Tucked away, just at the other end of the iconic Ravenel Bridge, is the town of Mount Pleasant. And if you’re looking for free things to do in the area, we’ve got some recommendations for you to consider adding to your itinerary.

Mount Pleasant Memorial Waterfront Park

As you cross the Cooper River into Mount Pleasant, you’ll be on top of one of the best places to visit. Beneath the Ravenel Bridge is the Mount Pleasant Memorial Waterfront Park. The Park offers visitors a bunch of things to do for little to no cost. The Mount Pleasant Visitor’s center is located at the front of the park, and this should be one of your first stops. Inside you’ll be able to get all kinds of information about the area, grab discount tickets for area attractions, and book reservations for popular restaurants.

Underneath the bridge is a great playground for kids. With seating for parents and a fenced-in area, it will be a favorite stop for you. The park’s huge greenspace is host to several free events, including live music, moonlight movies, and more.

If fishing is something your family enjoys, you’ll love the pier. The bait shop offers everything you’ll need to drop a line in the water with your kids. You could be in for an exciting time on the pier! If fishing isn’t your thing, the pier is excellent for people-watching.

boy looking out at Shem Creek — Shem Creek

Shem Creek Park

Another great place to visit in Mount Pleasant is Shem Creek Park. The 2,200-foot boardwalk extends over the marsh and out to the water. The creek is home to the local fleet of shrimp boats, and kids will love watching them come and go. The boardwalk is a great place to bring your kids’ scooters. If your family owns a kayak or a stand-up paddleboard, this is a great place to bring it. You can rent one at the shop right there if you don’t own one.

This is also a popular spot for watching dolphins frolic in the creek as they hope for scraps from the incoming fishing vessels. Grab a picnic lunch and enjoy the view from the many benches along the boardwalk.

sullivans island Edgar Allan Poe Library

Exploring Sullivan’s Island

If the crowds at Folly Beach aren’t your thing, then you’ll enjoy Sullivan’s Island, located off the coast of Mount Pleasant. Free public parking makes the beaches on this quiet island appealing, and the secluded nature of the beach makes it peaceful. Searching for shark teeth is a great lesson in patience and attention to detail for adults and children alike.

There’s also a small local library, the E dgar Allan Poe/Sullivan’s Island Library, you can visit. There’s a comfortable sofa and plenty of books for kids to enjoy. The Island has ties Poe, and you’ll find his name all over the island.

We’ve got even more things for you to do at Sullivan’s Island.

Pitt Street Bridge

The Pitt Street Bridge (also known as the Cove Inlet Bridge and the Cove Inlet Causeway) was once the only way to cross the water to get to the beaches. Originally built for a trolley, it was later widened for personal vehicles. The bridge closed in 1945 and was converted into a fishing pier. The old bridge burned, and now it’s covered by Pickett Park, a greenway lined with palm trees that takes pedestrians and cyclists across the former bridge site. At the end of the bridge is a great spot to go fishing.

Charles Pinckney National Historic Home

Charles Pinckney helped draft and sign the US Constitution, and now you can visit a 28-acre remnant of his original 715-acre plantation, Snee Farm. While visiting, you’ll be able to learn about Pinkney’s life and political influences, the People he enslaved, plantation operations, and the main cash crops of the Lowcountry (indigo and rice). There is no fee to visit Charles Pinkney’s National Historic Home.

Cheap Things to Do in Mount Pleasant, SC

Taking a trip to the Charleston area doesn’t have to break the bank. If you need some extra things to do on your trip, there’s plenty of low-cost fun to be had!

Charleston Water Taxi

Kidding Around’s fans are some of the best around! The suggestion of the Charleston Water Taxi was from a loyal reader. She hesitated to share her secret, but we’re glad she did.

The Water Taxi is a great way to see the waterfront from a different perspective. The pontoon-style boat picks passengers up at several different locations. Pro-Tip: There are no bathrooms on board, so make sure to stop at a restroom before hopping on.

One of the nice things about the taxi is you can stay on as long as you’d like, or hop on and off to sightsee. The taxi offers some very unique views of the ships docked at Patriots Point.

A complete trip around the harbor takes approximately 60 minutes. Make sure to have your camera ready because, in addition to the photo opportunities at Patriots Point, guests of the taxi are often treated to visits from dolphins. You can also capture some nice family photos with the Ravenel bridge in the background. The guys that captain the ship are happy to jump in a play photographer, so you can capture the memory of your entire family’s day out on the water.

$14 a person gets you a pass that covers the entire day, and kids 3 and under ride free.

Fort Moultrie

Sullivan’s Island is also rich in history, as it was home to where some of the first shots of the Civil War were fired. Fort Moultrie is part of the National Park Service. Adult admission costs $10, and children 15 and younger receive free entry.

Among the ranks at the Fort was someone who was destined for fame later in life. Regimental Sergeant-Major Edgar Allen Poe spent just over a year stationed here, and you will find evidence of his time here all over the island.

More Things to Do in Mt. Pleasant, SC

Patriots Point Naval Maritime Museum

For more immersion into Lowcountry history, take a visit to Patriots Point. In June 1975, the USS Yorktown entered Charleston Harbor and was the first ship dedicated to the Naval & Maritime Museum. Patriots Points opened the following year, housing the museum and a fleet of National Historic Landmark ships. You’ll be able to view a World War II Aircraft Carrier. You’ll also find the Cold War Memorial, the only Vietnam Experience Exhibit in the US, the Congressional Medal of Honor Society, and the official Medal of Honor Museum. It’s a very popular attraction and one to consider.

Give yourself 2-3 hours to go through everything. A single-day Patriots Point ticket for adults 12-61 years old is $27, children 6-11 years old tickets are $16, children 6 and under are free, and seniors 62+ years old will pay $19 for their tickets. There are bundle ticket options, and Veterans, First Responders, Teachers, and Active Military are offered discounts.

Splash Island Water Park

Splash Island Water Park is an excellent and fun attraction within Mount Pleasant Palmetto Islands County Park. The water park features a 200-ft body flume, a 16-ft otter slide, cyclone swirling water ride, a pool, and plenty of sprays, geysers, and raindrop waterfalls. There are lifeguards on-duty, and you’ll find concessions, restrooms, showers, and changing areas. Be sure to check their site for hours of operation because they do close during the winter season.

Boone Hall Plantation & Gardens

Another thing to do in Mt. Pleasant is to visit Boone Hall Plantation & Gardens. The plantation was founded in 1681 by Major John Boone. His family and descendants were significant influencers in South Carolina’s history. It’s one of the oldest working plantations in the US; it continues growing crops to this day. Boone Hall has been dubbed “a must-see stop on any trip to Charleston, SC” by NBC Daytime and is recognized as the “#1 Plantation in the Charleston Area by USA Today 10Best.”

Regular Adult tickets are $28, Seniors/Military/AAA are $25, children 6-12 years old are $12, and children 5 and under are free.

Where to Eat in Mount Pleasant

There’s no shortage of pitmasters in the Lowcountry, that’s for sure. Swig & Swine BBQ is a favorite. If you haven’t been yet. Be sure to follow Swig & Swine BBQ on Facebook so you don’t miss out on their daily specials, like $5 burger night and Wing Night!

Bon Bahn Mi is another local favorite restaurant in Mount Pleasant. They have delicious food and a build-your-own kid’s meal menu that is a hit when we go! Kids get to choose from a taco, a rice bowl, a noodle bowl, or a sandwich – and build it with protein and veggie options all for just $7 with an included drink!

Be sure to treat yourself to one of their iced Vietnamese coffees, they are amazing!

The Pitt Street Pharmacy Soda Fountai n is an old-school spot where you can grab a no-frills meal and a low price. Cheap burgers, sandwiches, and ice cream are the perfect lunchtime meal when you are on the go. Dine in and go around exploring Historic Mount Pleasant, or get it to go and head up the road to Shem Creek to relax.

Every Monday night, from 6-8 pm, Dog & Duck has family bingo night! The family-friendly prizes include gift cards for X-Box, iTunes, and more. If you make it there before we do, let us know!

Want to read our entire guide to visiting Charleston, SC? We’ve got you covered with Charleston Itineraries, Things to Do in Charleston, Where to Eat, and Places to Stay.

We can’t wait to add more free and cheap fun to our list of activities in Mount Pleasant! Check back often to see where our next adventure takes us.

Mom Review: Greenville Gemstone Mine

Looking for something fun to do inside in downtown Greenville? KAG Contributor Andrea Beam is sharing a family favorite with us today, the Greenville Gemstone Mine, located right along Downtown Greenville’s Main Street across from the Hyatt. This shop offers unique gifts and a place where kids can do a little gem mining for themselves.

We have an amazing time every time we hang out in downtown Greenville. However, if you ask my son to name his favorite activity, he would tell you it is “finding treasure” at Greenville Gemstone Mine on Main Street.

While I can’t say I share his love for “treasure,” I do appreciate the tables full of unique jewelry and cases of sparkly stones. The prices are just as appealing as the merchandise. It is definitely worth a visit (or two), even without little ones in tow!

I’ve never been in the store when it wasn’t packed. If there is one thing I am not completely crazy about, it’s the size of the place. It’s rather small. Having said that, we always manage to make our way through the crowd to the back (where the fun begins) with ease.

Now to our mining adventure! The first thing you’ll do is choose your bucket of rocks. They have many sizes, but the $9 kiddie bucket suits my budget just fine. If you happen to have extra cash burning a hole through your wallet, you can pay as much as $55 for a family bucket. Once you’ve made your choice, the (extra friendly) associates will give you a ziplock bag, a Gemstone identification chart and turn you loose! My son likes to take his time in the magical waters and smiles as each stone turns into something shiny and new. This is the part where you, as the parent, can stand back and check your Facebook page – I mean, take pictures.

When you’re done, you’ll leave with a slightly damp bag of treasure and one happy customer!

Want to visit Greenville Gemstone Mine?

Greenville Gemstone Mine is open 7 days a week:
Monday-Wednesday 10 am – 6 pm
Thursday 10 am – 7 pm
Friday-Saturday 10 am – 8 pm
Sunday 11 am – 6 pm

Go ahead and plan your visit. Show up around 10 and you’ll be out in time for an early lunch!

Greenville gem mine downtown Greenville, SC

Just a side note: walk out the door, turn left and walk a short distance to the Subway on the same side of the street. If the weather is nice, we like to take our sandwiches across the street and eat at the neon green tables in the Hyatt courtyard.

A second Greenville location is open in Haywood Mall near Macy’s. Hours for the mall location are
Monday-Thursday 10 am – 8 pm
Friday-Saturday 10 am – 9 pm
Sunday 12 pm – 7 pm

Have you ever taken your kids to Greenville’s Gemstone Mine?

Guide to things to do indoors near Greenville, South Carolina

Looking for more fun ideas? Try our The Ultimate Guide to Things to Do Inside in Greenville.

Reader Favorite Hot Chocolate in Greenville, SC

Looking for an amazing mug full of hot chocolate in Greenville, SC? Hot chocolate can be incredible – warm, chocolatey goodness and if you’re lucky, with a hefty helping of tiny marshmallows. Our Kidding Around Greenville readers recently revealed where their favorite places to find hot chocolate in Greenville.

Are you looking for those super trendy Hot Chocolate Bombs? Check out our Guide to Hot Chocolate Bombs in the Upstate!
Looking for more hot chocolate? Here’s our list of reader-favorite Hot Cocoa in Spartanburg, SC.

Complete Restaurant Guide to Greenville, SC

Looking for more great restaurants? We’ve got the list of best restaurants near Greenville, SC for you!

Delicious Hot Chocolate In Greenville

Kilwin’s Green ville

220 North Main St, Greenville
This cozy place is right next to the Hyatt on Main Street. They serve really good ice cream and make their own waffle cones. You should really treat yourself to some fresh chocolate fudge to go with that hot cocoa! You have our permission.

Kilwins Greenville has THE best hot chocolate I’ve ever had. The seaside caramel hot chocolate is my go to

Stefani P

STEAM Coffee and Cream

113 A South Main Street, Fountain Inn
Readers are recommending Steam Coffee and Cream in Fountain Inn for hot chocolate. They also offer a variety of kids arts and crafts events and games, so you really can’t go wrong.

113A S Main Street, Fountain Inn

Eggs Up Grill

1939 Woodruff Rd, Greenville | 31 August St, Greenville
You can’t really go wrong at a place where breakfast is served all day. For some extra pep in your step, try the mocha hot chocolate!

Swamp Rabbit Café & Grocery

205 Cedar Lane, Greenville
Everything that Swamp Rabbit Café bakes and brews and sells is amazing. No surprise their hot chocolate is any different. Go get some.

Coffee Underground

1 East Coffee St, Greenville
Located at the corner of Coffee and Main, this chill place is literally underground and serves up great coffee, hot chocolate, and sweet treats.

Barista Alley

101 Trade Street, Greer
This Greer coffee shop offers up grown-up looking hot cocoa with a lovely window to people-watch in Downtown Greer.

Enjoy more delicious warm beverages at these Coffee Shops in Greenville, SC

Where to Buy Local Hot Cocoa Bombs: Greenville, SC

Pick up Hot Cocoa Bombs from the brick-and-mortar locations. Make sure to order ahead closer to the holidays, as they will sell out and be hard to find unless you plan. *Prices subject to change

Chocolate Dreams Shop | Located inside of Shoppes Off Trade – 410 West Poinsett Street, Greer

Prices vary by design, character, and theme. Prices range from $5.50 and up for various chocolate bombs. Coffee, espresso, and traditional bombs are available as well.

Main Street Sweets – 119 Main Street. Woodruff

Milk Chocolate, Dark Chocolate, and White Chocolate Bombs starting at $7

The Chocolate Bomb

$8 Each | Assorted Flavors
classic, mocha, peppermint bark, and salted caramel

Hot chocolate bombs are a fun twist on hot chocolate. I love creating flavors and making the bombs a fun surprise with different marshmallows. My husband and kids love trying my creations out. It is also fun watching customers watch my videos at the markets for the first time and seeing the marshmallows come out. We have been working hard this past month on our website and it is finally here! Check out www.thechocolatebomb.com!

Emily Lemieux Yeargin

*Photo Credit: White Elm Bakehouse, with permission*

Le Petit Croissant is Picnic Perfect

There is something romantic and precious about artisan-made desserts, not only do they taste good, but they make the sudden surge of calories quite worthwhile. At Le Petit Croissant, pastry chef and owner Vincent Cardonna can be seen working hard in his kitchen on a daily basis. The croissants are churned out fresh each morning accompanied by beautiful and delectable handmade chocolates and fine petit fours that beg for tea time.

Looking for more good restaurants? Here are the best restaurants in Greenville, SC.

Our visit to Le Petit Crossaint

On our first visit, we went for a classic selection and filled our Eclipse picnic basket with croissants, éclairs, raspberry tarts and quiches. Needless to say the pastries didn’t last the 2:30 pm show time and were gobbled up by kids and adults alike. We promised ourselves we’d be back.

Le Petit Croissant describes itself as a bakery making European-style pastries with a twist. Recently, after a hearty lunch downtown, we walked over to the bakery to have our dessert. My petit four was called Butterfly Cake with its changing hues, and hubby had the Raspberry dome. Once again, our sweet craving ended on a high note.

Le Petit Croissant candies in Greenville SC

And finally, about the chocolates. Have I told you about the chocolates? Cardonna is a master chocolatier. His creations are always infused with a unique combinations of flavor. You can build your own box, pick from their seasonal choices or purchase a chocolate or raspberry syringe for that quick boost! Le Petit Croissant is also fast becoming known for its Chocolate and Macaron Workshops that are often sold out. You can sign up or form your own group of six at $65 per person. Also in the works are chocolate workshops for kids.

We are well aware that Greenville has no shortage of fabulous bakeries that make flakey croissants and unforgettable homemade pies. What makes Le Petit Croissant stand out is the purveyor’s willingness to offer something new, delightful fine desserts minus the stuffiness. It’s not a place to buy good ol’ birthday cakes in a flash. But it’s still a mom-and-pop shop, where the same baker who wakes up to churn fresh pastries is the same one who fashions whimsical chocolates for your little ones, and just might be the same person serving you. Whether it’s a craving for something sweet or savory, this little shop has given us something to look forward to on our strolls downtown at the Historic West End.

Le Petit Croissant Greenville chalkboard

Visit Le Petit Croissant for yourself

As in any bakery, expect items to run out. Best to go there for breakfast or lunch. They open at 8 am every day except Mondays; they are closed on Mondays.

Le Petit Croissant
640 South Main Street, Greenville, SC 29601
864.520.1555
Have you visited Le Petit Croissant yet?

10 Kid-Friendly Restaurant Options That Aren’t Fast Food in Greenville, SC

Have you been searching for restaurants that are a little fancier, but are kid-friendly? Greenville, SC has several that are both! If you’re looking for a nice restaurant to celebrate something special or just something a bit nicer than chicken nuggets, check out this list of the best restaurants for kids in Greenville, SC.

Kid friendly restaurants in Greenville, South Carolina that are not fast food.

Dining out with kids isn’t only for intrepid parents who’ve taken their kids to dinner since birth. Parents deserve some fun and creative dining experiences that don’t involve chicken tenders! To make it a more fun and memorable experience, in addition to providing you with a few dinner suggestions (not the usual suspects), we’ve also shared some of our tips below based on our dining experiences around town.

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Hands On! Children’s Museum in Hendersonville, NC is the Perfect Day Trip

Have you visited Hand On! Children’s Museum in Hendersonville, NC? It’s the perfect place for kids to play and learn with parents and grandparents. The small footprint of Hands On is great for a kid-size adventure without being too overwhelming. You’ll find Hands On! along Downtown Hendersonville’s beautiful Main Street, beside Black Bear Coffee.

Hands On! Children’s Museum

Hands On! Children’s Museum has a target audience of children aged ten and under. The museum is all located on one floor which is great for parents keeping track of multiple kids.

The smaller front section contains a fire truck play area, a dinosaur dig exhibit, an art area, and a Kilwin’s Ice Cream-themed pretend play area.

Fire truck at Hands On in Hendersonville, NC

Behind that, you’ll find the larger open play space where kids can pretend to shop at the grocery store, cook a meal, and pick apples. There’s also a pretend play doctor’s office with a baby care station, a dentist’s office, an engineering area, and a theater.

The middle of this Hendersonville children’s museum features a beautiful mountain play area with a fun stairway that leads to a slide in the rocks. The bubbling sounds of both a natural-looking waterfall feature and a fun water play area add to the natural mountain scene and fill the whole museum with the calming sounds of running water.

Babies and Toddlers at Hands On! WNC

There is a small area set aside just for babies and toddlers at Hands On! In this area you’ll find soft mats, a low table and chairs, many sensory toys suitable for toddlers and babies, plus blocks and puzzles.

Rocking chairs in this area overlook the mountain in the center of the museum.

Admission and Hours at Hands On! Hendersonville, NC

Your $10 admission allows you to enter and leave the museum for a full day. Every person pays admission – even adults. Infants are $4. Hands On! is open Tuesdays to Saturdays from 9 am – 5 pm. (Closed Sundays and Mondays, except for special holidays and seasonal breaks.)

Memberships are available and if you think you would make the trip to Hendersonville more than a few times a year, a membership could be the perfect option for your family. (Remind grandparents that museum memberships make great birthday and Christmas gifts!)

Kilwins play area at Hands On in Hendersonville, NC

Water feature at Hands On in Hendersonville

Classes, Parties, and More

Hands On! offers regular classes that are often free with your admission. Classes range in topics from science to reading to crafting. Summer is filled with weekly class options – and the convenient part for parents is that one child can attend a class while the other children play. Throughout the year there are weekly classes – such as storytime and science classes, plus other weekly options. Be sure to check their Hands On website or Facebook page for all the details.

Hands On! also offers an easy and enjoyable option for birthday parties. They provide a party room for the cake and gifts and then, of course, the museum is all the entertainment you will need for your birthday guests.

More to Do in Hendersonville, NC

Downtown Hendersonville has so many fun things to do. Hop out of the museum for lunch at one of the family-friendly Main Street restaurants. Options like pizza and sandwiches and an iconic soda fountain shop across the street can make Hendersonville a great day trip destination. Right next door to the museum is Black Bear Coffee Shop with great coffee beverages, treats, sandwiches and a lot more. And, McFarlan’s Bakery is right across the street. Pick up some donuts, cookies, pastries, or even a whole pie to bring home!

Gather a few of your girlfriends and strap the kids in their booster seats. A day at Hands On! will be a day the kids will really remember and love

Hands On! Children’s Museum
318 N. Main Street, Hendersonville, NC
828.697.8333

Has your family ever visited the Hands On! Children’s Museum?

Don’t miss our full guide to Hendersonville, NC Things to Do.

Mom Review: Bowling at Rock Springs Impact Center

Local mom Andrea Beam reviews the bowling alley at Rock Springs Baptist Church in Easley, SC. This bowling alley is open to the public and offers bowling, food, and even birthday parties at their Impact Center.

For even more local bowling alleys see our Ultimate Guide to Fun Inside in Greenville.

I’m about to be really honest with you guys. I HATE bowling. Like, I really hate it. Everything from the unsanitary ball and shoes to the smoky atmosphere makes me want to crawl into a bathtub full of hand sanitizer. It’s really sad because our boys love to bowl, but I just can’t muster up the will to carry them. Don’t worry, I’m not passing along my disdain, I just always happen to have another activity planned when they ask.

My nephew, Preston’s, birthday was in March, and guess what kind of party he asked for?

You got it.

“Great,” I thought to myself (or I may have said it out loud a few times, but that’s beside the point).

Clearly, I was less than excited about his choice of venue, but because I need all the brownie points I can get when it comes to child-rearing, I began to call around to various bowling alleys (I’m such a sacrificial aunt).

Bowling at Rock Springs

Enter my new best friend, Ashley. Ashley’s son is Preston’s best friend and they had just been to a bowling party at Rock Springs Baptist Church’s Impact Center. There’s a bowling alley there!

Say what??

“You really should give them a call, it was so nice,” she said. Faster than you could blow out a candle, we were on the phone.

The fact that it was at a church made me feel better. If nothing else, I knew the atmosphere would be family-friendly. Alcohol, tobacco, and offensive language are all prohibited in the bowling alley.

A bowling birthday party at Rock Springs

Needless to say, we booked his party. It was a win, win for everyone.

I was impressed the moment we walked through the door. To say that it was clean would be an understatement. There are twelve lanes for you and your family/friends to enjoy. And maybe it was just me, but the lanes seemed a lot roomier than your average bowling alley. Believe it or not, I ended up having a blast. Preston and all of his little friends did too, but you probably guessed that already!

A few things you should know when thinking about booking your party at Rock Springs’ Impact Center

You purchase a 2 hour time slot – I’ve found this to be true of most party venues, so no surprise here.

Pizza/Drinks are part of the package – They encourage you to have a headcount ready and pre-order your pizzas so they are ‘hot and ready’ by a certain time the night of the party. When you arrive, you’ll be given a “menu” type sheet of paper with a list of drinks. Once you turn your sheet in, you’ll be given a specific time that your order will be ready. Of course, you’ll want to plan the bowling portion of the party around the food.

Outside food and drinks (even water) are not permitted. But, you can bring cupcakes!

Bring extra cash – Even though you pay for the pizza and drinks together, you’ll want to have extra cash for the snack bar. Again, take it from me. They have nacho chips, popcorn, and other over-the-counter snack foods for a VERY minimal price. Depending on what time you have your party, the kiddos may want to snack before the pizza is ready. Who doesn’t want popcorn once the smell fills the room? Maybe you’re more disciplined than me, and if so, my hats off to you!

Party packages begin at $225 for 12 bowlers. That includes the 2 hour party with 2 pizzas, soda and more. They have other party packages as well.

Plan a visit to the Rock Springs Bowling Alley soon

Regular Admission:

$5/per game and that includes shoe rental, or $18 per lane (up to 6 people, includes shoes)
On Tuesdays, Seniors bowl for $2/game from 10 am to 12 pm
Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5 pm to 9 pm everyone pays $3 per game, including shoes

Lanes host up to six bowlers.

No reservations – Lanes are first come, first serve unless you’ve booked a party. Children ages 14 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

As with any other bowling alley, socks are required and available for purchase.

Hours of operation:

Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday 5-9 p.m., Wednesday and Sunday CLOSED, Friday 5-11 p.m. and Saturday 12-9 pm.

Location:

201 Rock Springs Road
Easley, SC 29642
864.442.2057
Visit the Rock Springs Impact Center Bowling Website here.

The Impact Center also offers gym facilities and group fitness for an affordable cost.

I think I’ve covered everything, but if you’ve been and there’s something I’ve missed, please let us know in the comments! Rock Springs Bowling Alley is the perfect alternative for someone, like me, who isn’t a fan of traditional venues.

Hiking Table Rock Near Greenville, SC With Kids

Table Rock State Park is one of our area’s premier hiking destinations and not a far drive from Greenville, SC. Offering beautiful waterfalls, swimming holes, and trails from the leisure to the strenuous, all nestled in an incredible mountain forest setting. At just 30 miles from downtown Greenville, this park would make a great day trip for your next family adventure.

What to expect at Table Rock

There are many wonderful trails at Table Rock State Park in Pickens, SC. Located right off Highway 11, if you’re coming from Greenville, you’ll likely spot the giant rock looming as you approach the park that the park derives its name from. From trails to swimming holes, this park is rightly one of the most popular in the state.

Especially during peak seasons of late spring, summer, and early fall, you’ll need to plan to get to the park early in the morning to get a parking spot. If you’ve got a SC State Park All Park Passport, your entire carload gets in free but it doesn’t mean you’ll get into the park if it’s full so plan accordingly.

The trails at the park range from easy to strenuous. There are two lakes, a Visitors Center, a Nature Center, a playground, lakeside beach, camping, and cabins.

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Trails

Of the many offerings, the park boasts, my favorite trail for hiking with little ones is the Carrick Creek Trail. This was the first trail I hiked when I first moved here to South Carolina and it’s been a favorite ever since. Beginning at the Nature Center, this trail starts out paved and immediately opens up to the beautiful Carrick Creek Falls where your kiddos can wade around in a cool, shallow lagoon fed by a cascading waterfall. There is a wooden platform where people can sit or leave their shoes before they wade into the water.

Beyond the waterfalls, the pavement ends and the trail becomes a bit more moderate as it follows the creek for a while and then loops around back to the falls for a grand total of two miles. It’s generally an easy trail but some parts are hilly. If the water is high, you may get your feet wet during the water crossings.

The lakeside trail is the easiest one at the park as is meanders around the lake for just under two miles. The Civilian Conservation Corp (CCC) started this trail in the 1930s but it wasn’t finished till many years later in 2011. Table Rock is one of several Upstate parks created by the CCC.

There are a few other trails in the park you can venture off on but be sure to always carry enough water and food with you, especially during the hotter months. It gets very hot and humid there.

Table Rock Trail to the Summit

If easy or moderate trails aren’t enough of an adventure for your crew, there are plenty of other longer and more difficult trails to choose from with overlooks and waterfalls to seek. Namely, the Pinnacle Mountain Trail which leads to Mill Creek Falls and Bald Rock Overlook. I have not done those, although they are on my list. However, I have completed the Table Rock Trail to the summit of the large granite dome multiple times (and each time I wonder why I wanted to do it….joking, kind of).

The park does ask visitors to fill out a little card at the Nature Center or kiosk at the start of the trail with their name, how many people are in their party, an emergency contact, what trail(s) they are doing, and what their car looks like. I always do this for safety reasons and I advise not skipping it.

The Table Rock Trail is one of the most strenuous trails in the Upstate. It’s a little over seven miles round trip and involves a lot of stairs and steep treks up rock hewn steps. Think going on a stair stepper for a few hours. The trail splits from Carrick Creek about a mile in and you start really ascending the mountain. You’ll climb through boulders and up steep inclines and then more steep inclines. About halfway up, you will reach a little shelter where you can grab some water before really getting into the toughest part of the trail. When you reach Governor’s Rock, you can rest again and enjoy the sweeping views.

Then you’ll need to huff and puff up to the summit. The parts of the trail right before Governor’s Rock and then right before the summit are the toughest spots. Once you reach the summit, you’ll see a sign that literally says “Table Rock Mountain Summit” but don’t stop there (sorry). Keep going for another quarter mile to reach the truly awesome views you just worked so hard for. You’ll be looking out over the Table Rock reservoir and directly at Caesars Head State Park. Wave to them since they’ve got binoculars over there.

The park says to allow at least 5-6 hours to do this trail. I’ve completed it anywhere between 4-5 hours with some time spent at the top to enjoy the view and eat lunch.

Taking Kids up to the Summit

First of all, the Table Rock Trail is not a beginner trail. It is very, very difficult. I make it a point to hike hard trails and this is easily one of the hardest I’ve ever done. One big thing is that you absolutely need to do is to carry enough water and make sure you have enough time to complete it before the park closes.

That said, if you have kids that hike often, they will likely be fine. Just carry enough snacks and water and stop when you need to. I’ve hiked this with my kids, ages 11 and 8, and they did great. I know families who have hiked this with their kids who were much, much younger, and they also did really well. This really depends on your kids but if you all are up for a challenge, this is it.

As with any trails and time spent outdoors, leave no trace and pack out what you pack in.

The Beach and Playground

Table Rock SP also has a small beach with plenty of sand. You can also rent boats to paddle around the lake for a fee. Entrance to the lake is included in your entrance fee and no dogs are allowed on the beach.

There is an admission charge to enter the park, which you can find updated on the park’s website. If you have an All Park Passport, there is no admission charge.

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There are bathrooms and changing rooms near the beach and picnic area but don’t expect a five star resort experience. Especially during the summer, there are bugs and spiders but you’re outdoors so it’s expected.

The playground is across from the beach and consists of monkey bars, swings, and slides. You can also camp at the park and there are cabins to rent for those of you who need something softer than a blowup pad on the ground.

beach at Table Rock State Park — Beach at Table Rock State Park

Things to do Near Table Rock

Table Rock is located in one of the prettiest areas of South Carolina with lots of lakes and hiking trails nearby.

Caesars Head State Park

Right across the valley from Table Rock is Caesars Head State Park, where you can enjoy miles and miles of hiking trails and waterfalls. You can also check out the view from the summit at Caesars Head without any hiking at all and look directly at Table Rock. During the fall, falcons are often seen from here as they migrate.

Bald Rock Heritage Preserve

Just minutes from Caesars Head is Bald Rock Heritage Preserve, a huge outcrop where you can hang out and enjoy the views. On a clear day, you can see the Greenville skyline. My kids and I love to take our hammocks up here on a nice day, string them up, and read and relax.

Wildcat Wayside

Located right on Highway 11 about 15 minutes from Table Rock is Wildcat Wayside, a mile long loop trail that also has a roadside waterfall. This spot is hugely popular in the summer as parents bring their kids to wade in the shallow pool at the bottom of the falls.

Table Rock Tea

The Upstate’s only tea farm is quite literally in the shadow of Table Rock. It’s a really neat place where you can tour the farm (by appointment) and learn all about how tea is grown and made and, of course, purchase your own tea right from the farm.

Pretty Place

This famous open air chapel is located on the property of YMCA Camp Greenville and is just stunning. If you go, be sure you check the schedule beforehand since it may be closed for private events.

Where to Eat Nearby

There are not a lot of restaurants in the area but here are a few places to grab a bite near Table Rock.

Pumpkintown Mountain Opry

The Pumpkintown Mountain Opry serves a deli style lunch Thursday – Monday from 11 am – 5 pm. They also have coffee and a market on Saturday mornings. They are a seasonal business and not open in the winter.

3414 Hwy 11, Pickens, SC

Mountain House

Mountain House is only open Saturdays and Sundays (definitely check their social media pages before going) and serve fudge, ice cream, and some breakfast and lunch fare. They are only a minute down the road from Caesars Head State Park.

8101 Geer Highway , Cleveland, SC

Tropical Burger

Tropical Burger is about 25 minutes from Table Rock and if you hiked the summit trail, this will be your reward, I promise. They have some of the very best burgers I’ve ever had and the owner is the kindest guy. I love, love, love eating here.

207 NE Main Street, Easley, SC

See our guide to Pickens County for more fun things to do!

Plan your own trip to Table Rock

158 Ellison Lane
Pickens, SC 29671

Visit the Table Rock website here.

Does Table Rock sound like a great place to take your kids’ hiking?

Find the perfect trail.

Hiking Guide to Upstate, SC

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