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Posts Tagged ‘Birthdays’

50+ Experience Gifts in Greenville, SC & Spartanburg, SC That Don’t Take Up Space

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You have found our giant list of experience gifts! Greenville, SC and Spartanburg, SC offer a lot of ideas. If your closet, toy boxes, and toy shelves are a little full, we get it. So, we’ve created a list of experience gifts available in Greenville, Spartanburg, and surrounding areas that families will love. You’ll make memories, learn new things, and they won’t take up any space in the toy box, either!

Experience gift ideas for Greenville, South Carolina

Being a mom, I hang out with lots of moms and one topic of conversation comes up pretty frequently, the massive amounts of “stuff” that our kids accumulate. Over Christmas, there is one solution that I think is brilliant: buy a gift that doesn’t take up space. Creating a memory is priceless. Spending time as a family is essential. These are experiences that will bring smiles, build up families, and won’t end up in a donation bin. You’ll also find some great ideas (Culinary Tour, anyone?) for the grown-ups in your life too!

Petting a snake at Roper Mountain Science Center
Roper Mountain Science Center

Disclaimer: This list does include advertisers, partners, in addition to other businesses that we recommend. This list contains affiliate links at no cost to you.

The Ultimate Greenville, SC Gift Guide

Find the perfect gift with our Ultimate Gift Guide!


Membership Gifts

We have some pretty amazing membership options in the Upstate. Many memberships provide unlimited visits during the year. Trust me. Parents love these as gifts for their kids! Remember, this list is just for informational purposes, and we can’t guarantee pricing. We have provided links to the original sources where you can find the most current information.

Experience Gifts: Greenville, SC Memberships

Play passes – Lots of local, indoor play places have some version of a play pass, where you get either a certain number of entries or unlimited play. Try Village Play, Kids Play & Cafe, Palmetto Proper, SkyZone Fall Pass, or Big Air PLAYer Pass,

The Children’s Museum of the Upstate – TCMU is a favorite among many Upstate families and offers so many kid and family activities throughout the year that a membership would be a great gift. Also, don’t forget that in addition to their Greenville campus, they also have a campus in Spartanburg that is designed for children aged 5 and under!

Greenville Zoo – Greenville Zoo memberships include extra perks such as guest tickets and it’s a reciprocal membership which means that you can use your membership to get into other participating zoos at a discounted or free price.

Roper Mountain Science Center – RMSC memberships include admission to weekly planetarium shows, Summer Adventure, Afternoon Explorations, and discounts on other services. Memberships for a family are $95 (homeschool families can take advantage of the teacher price of $90). This membership is also reciprocal. You can read about how my family saved over $100 on vacation one year by using ours.

Greenville Water Parks Season Passes – These memberships include Greenville’s water parks.  Individual memberships for parks start at $62 and go up to $95 per person. The Rec ‘N Crew pass, priced at $155, gets the pass holder admission to all three water parks plus year-round admission to The Pavilion’s Ice Rink and Bounce House.

Flying Rabbit Adventures Annual Pass – You can get an annual pass ($395) and play on the big aerial course for 2.5 hours a day when the adventure course is open. Super fun!

Family memberships to local gyms and recreational facilities offer not just access to exercise equipment and swimming pools but also discounted prices on classes, sports, and more. Joining fees and monthly fees vary on the specific facility in Greenville.

Upcountry History Museum – A membership at the Upcountry History Museum not only includes unlimited visits but also access to their Family Fun Days, UHM Kids Book Club, and more!  A family membership is $105 for the year.

Back to the top: Experience Gift Guide

Membership Gifts in Spartanburg

If you live in Spartanburg or don’t mind driving 30 minutes from Greenville, Hub City has plenty of family fun to offer!

The Children’s Museum of the Upstate â€“ While this museum’s Spartanburg location is geared for younger children (5 years and under), the membership is reciprocal and can be used at both the Greenville museum and the Spartanburg museum.

The YMCA of Greater Spartanburg â€“ Any kid and their parents will be thrilled with a YMCA membership because it means they have access to all the YMCA fun!

Big Air Trampoline Park â€“ The indoor trampoline park in Greenville and Spartanburg is a super fun place to visit, but it can add up quickly. That’s why families love the monthly membership packages that include daily two-hour jump sessions.

Shipwreck Cove â€“ Go ahead and purchase a season pass to Shipwreck Cove waterpark in Duncan and parents and kids will be thanking you for making summer wet and wild.

Back to the top: Experience Gift Guide


Event Tickets as Experience Gifts: Greenville, SC & The Upstate

I don’t know about you but my kids absolutely love being spectators. Sometimes I catch them in a state of wonder or amazement when I take them to sporting events, plays, music performances, and even monster truck rallies. Not only do event tickets make a great gift for children but they can also be a great way to treat a whole family or plan for a special date for the grandparents and kids.

Ticket Gifts in Greenville

Swamp Rabbits Hockey – My kids absolutely love hockey. It’s a fun, family-friendly environment. Check the schedule for fun promotional night events.

Furman University basketball tickets – Grab tickets to the local university’s basketball games.

Clemson Tigers – Clemson football fans would love tickets to a home game.

Greenville Theatre – The Greenville Theatre features musicals, dramas, comedies, and more throughout the year.

South Carolina Children’s Theatre – The SCCT has performances for everyone. They also offer programming for younger audiences via their Tell-Me-A-Story Theatre. During the summer months, kids can take advantage of their classes and summer camps. And it all takes part in their bright and shiny theatre on Augusta Street!

Greer Cultural Arts Council – In addition to productions by the Greer Children’s Theatre, the Greer Cultural Arts Council also offers courses in the arts, dance, drama, literature, and music.

Peace Center – The Peace Center has many offerings including Broadway shows and music performances.

The Well also has a fun round-up of family-friendly events.

Here are two excellent options for tickets as an experience gift:

Get ready for the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus Greenville, SC and beyond

This year, you can put tickets to the circus under the tree! in February, The Well will feature the new Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus! Get your tickets now for a show from February 9th -11th, 2024 and you’ll be putting the Circus under your tree this year!

Check out our Kidding Around Review of the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus!

The Well is also home to Monster Jam! You can grab tickets now for Monster Jam on April 6th and 7th, 2024. Monster Jam is always a family favorite. Here’s our Kidding Around Review of Monster Jam.

Monster Jam monster truck
Monster Jam at the Bon Secours Wellness Arena

Greenville Drive – Baseball games are always fun, especially at the family-friendly Fluor Field, where they even have a playground on site.

Greenville Triumph or Greenville Liberty– The Greenville Triumph soccer team wows fans young and old.

Back to the top: Experience Gift Guide

Ticket Gifts in Spartanburg

Spartanburg Little Theatre â€“ Local theatre company that performs shows for various age groups

Spartanburg Youth Theatre â€“ Local youth theatre that performs shows for kids by kids

Ballet Spartanburg â€“ Performs beautiful ballet at Chapman Cultural Center

Greer Cultural Center â€“ Venue for music concerts and Greer Children’s Theatre performances. It also hosts classes in a range of arts, dance, drama, literature, and music.

College Sports Tickets â€“ Cheer on a hometown team with tickets to a local college’s sporting events. Local schools include ClemsonUSC UpstateWofford, and Converse.

Spartanburg Memorial Auditorium â€“ Hosts a variety of live events such as Charlie Brown Christmas and Disney Junior Live

Back to the top: Experience Gift Guide


Local Classes as Experience Gifts: Greenville, SC & The Upstate

Purchasing a class is a great way to have fun learning. While this list is not comprehensive it includes several of our favorite options.

Class Gifts in Greenville

Dance Without Limits– Dance Without Limits offers dance classes beginning as young as 18 months in their Mommy and Me Dance Class all the way through advanced dance classes. Ballet, tap, lyrical, and tumbling classes are available as well as summer camps. Dance is for everyone at Dance Without Limits.

Kindermusik with Piano Central Studios – Kindermusik is a great way to introduce music to a baby or toddler.

Yellowbobbypins Art– This amazing art studio at Hampton Station offers virtual gift cards, so you can gift the kids in your life art classes and lessons!

Color Clay Cafe – This pottery studio offers painting and other art designs for both adults and children. You can also enjoy Open Studio times outside of classes.

I9 Sports – This youth sports league offers a range of different sports options for children.

Sylvan Learning – For kids who enjoy an extra challenge, Sylvan Learning provides a full range of interesting classes including classes on robotics and coding.

The Little Gym – This local children’s gym is a favorite of our readers!

Daily Bread Baking Class – Take a baking class at Bluebird Homestead or give as a gift.

bread making class at Bluebird Homestead
Rolling the amazing pizza roll at Bluebird Homestead baking class

Also, you can purchase certificates for Art Workshops through the  Greenville Center for Creative Arts, Spartanburg Art Museum, and more. Many of these workshops are excellent parent and child bonding experiences.

Acrosmith Gymnastics, Airborne Athletics, and Greenville Gymnastics all offer classes year-round. If you’ve got a budding gymnast, buying them classes for a month is a great gift.

Roller Time Skating Academy offers roller skating lessons and summer camps for beginners through advanced skaters.

Goldfish Swim School offers a holiday package deal for a gift of swim! They have gift bundles with 3 months of lessons, 2 months of lessons, or $100 gift cards.

Climb @ Blue Ridge has gift cards in just about any amount, so the climber in your family can learn how to excel at the sport.

Vino & Van Gogh has gift cards available for 2-hour classes (adult and children), summer camp, after-school camps, couples painting classes, and parent/child painting classes!

Back to the top: Experience Gift Guide

Class Gifts in Spartanburg

Spartanburg Youth Theatre â€“ Offers theatre classes for kids preschool – high school

Sylvan Learning Center â€“ In addition to tutoring, Sylvan Learning Center also offers Robotics for Kids.

Spartanburg Science Center Lego Robotics Club â€“ Offers after-school Lego robotics clubs for kids 6-12 years old

Musikgarten at Lawson Academy for the Arts â€“ Offers music classes for kids 0-7 years old at Converse College

Spartanburg Art Museum â€“ Offers art classes from preschool through adult classes at Chapman Cultural Center

For even more ideas, see our giant Activity & Classes Guide which will help you find:

  • Martial Arts Classes
  • Ballet Classes
  • Gymnastics and Cheer Classes
  • Equestrian Experiences
  • and more!

Back to the top: Experience Gift Guide


Local Experience Gifts: Greenville, SC & The Upstate

Making memories through shared experiences and new adventures is always a win! Whether for yourself, you and your significant other, or the whole family, the Upstate has plenty of neat experiences to explore. Nothing is easier than handing over a gift voucher to something exciting!

Experience Gifts in Greenville

Greenville Culinary Tours – I was invited to experience the Greenville Culinary Tour myself and hands down, it’s an absolutely awesome gift idea. The price is an excellent value and I would definitely do it again. Tickets include food and a drink at each location.

Escape Artist Greenville – Our team here at Kidding Around has done three of the escape rooms and had a blast. This is a perfect date night activity or just for fun with friends.

Wine & Design – This art studio offers canvas painting classes for adults and even has an Art Buzz kids line of classes for children.

Trapped in the Upstate – This escape room in Greer will test your problem-solving skills while delivering a fun night of entertainment.

Ice on Main – Ice skating on Main Street would make the perfect treat for the kids (or a special someone).

Once Upon a Dream Parties – Did you know that you hire a princess for as little as $50?

Topgolf Greenville – Take a few swings and have a great meal together. Fun for the whole family (they even have kid clubs available).

Mad Smash Rage Room – Get out your frustrations by smashing a whole bunch of stuff in a smash room. Kids ages 8+ can participate.

Moo Cow Farm – Enjoy cuddles with cows at this farm in Simpsonville. It’s a great gift for the animal lover.

Flying Rabbit Adventures – They’ve got two huge ropes and obstacle courses with zip lines plus a pump track. This is a really fun experience for the whole family.

Denver Downs Farm – Get your family Denver Downs tickets for an awesome fall experience!

The Pavilion– You can get a 10-visit pass for the bounce house at The Pavilion in Taylors, SC for just $85. You can also get a youth ice skating 10-visit pass for only $65 and an adult one for $85!

Speed Factory Indoor Karting– With locations in Greenville, SC and Spartanburg, SC, this indoor karting place offers gift cards starting at $5.

Back to the top: Experience Gift Guide

Experience Gifts in Spartanburg

Big E Gaffney â€“ Movies, putt-putt, bowling, ropes course, and more

East Main Arts â€“ Offers a variety of adult paint and wine parties, as well as family arts and costumed character appearances

Hearts of Clay â€“ A Spartanburg local favorite. This is a spot to make personalized art and pottery.

Spartanburg County Historical Association â€“ Support your local historical association by purchasing a membership, which will provide you with free or discounted admission to properties and special events

Back to the top: Experience Gift Guide


Good Gifts No Matter Where You Live

While the Upstate has plenty to offer, there are plenty of good clutter-busting and memory-making gifts to be found in almost any community.

South Carolina State Park Passport– State Park Passports are great for families who love the outdoors. The All Park Passport is $99 and gives you access to all 47 state parks, including some lighthouses. And if you’re shopping for someone who doesn’t live in South Carolina, there is surely a similar program for their home state’s park system!

Nail or Spa Gift Certificates â€“ A spa gift certificate is another excellent choice – especially for busy moms. One of our local favorites is Drift Float! Buy a float for someone in your life who needs to relax (or yourself, no judgment here). We did it and it was awesome.

Drift Float spa in Greenville, South Carolina
Drift Spa

Pool Memberships â€“ Even though it is too cold to swim right now, you can always plan ahead. Purchase a family pool membership so the kids can enjoy the pool all summer long.

Photography – Book a local photographer to capture photographs of your family – and don’t forget to print them out to give to the gift recipient!

Indoor Play Ideas (check our rainy day guide for a massive list of places that offer bouncing or play during the day)

Meal Delivery Services / Grocery Delivery â€“ Help out a busy family by paying the fee for a meal delivery or grocery delivery service such as Shipt (for groceries) or Hello Fresh (for meals). Need inspiration? See how you can Get Those Groceries Delivered in Upstate, SC!

Gift cards to local restaurants â€“ My family always loves receiving gift cards to local restaurants since we don’t eat out often. In addition to the many chain restaurant gift card options, most local Spartanburg restaurants offer gift cards as well.

Subscription Boxes â€“ Subscription boxes are all the rage and there are a ton to choose from! Most subscription boxes allow you to choose the increment (monthly, bi-monthly, or quarterly). Plus, they offer them for kids (i.e., books, arts & crafts) and adults (i.e., coffee, adult beverages, to name a few). While I’ve never tried it, I’ve heard other parents say that they love Kiwi Crate and try Tinker Crate for older children. There are also local subscription boxes you can pick up directly, like Big Play in a Box.

Streaming Services Subscriptions (Hulu, Netflix, Amazon Prime, Sling) – Help a family cut the cord by paying for a subscription to a streaming TV service.

Summer Camp – Summer camp is an amazing gift. Many places will soon open their registrations. My child had a blast last summer at Conestee Camp with Greenville Rec and Space Camp at The Children’s Museum of the Upstate. If you need inspiration, check out our massive Summer Camp Guide!

Attractions Dining & Value Guide – One of my absolute favorite ideas is the Attractions Book. You can purchase them online and they are offered for Greenville, Spartanburg, and several other parts of South Carolina. It supports local businesses and the coupons are quite good. It would make an excellent stocking stuffer! Ask around as many schools and non-profits sell this book as a fundraiser.

Back to the top: Experience Gift Guide


Day Trip Gifts

One of the benefits of living in the Upstate is that we’re sandwiched in between several cities that offer plenty of family fun activities–many of which are easily worth an hour or so of driving!

The Georgia Aquarium – We took our child to the Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta several years ago for his birthday and he still talks about it!

The Biltmore An annual pass at the Biltmore includes not only admission to the house but also to the farm where kids can pet chickens and goats, the winery, and discounts on tickets to Dollywood and Tweetsie Railroad.

The Biltmore

Dollywood – The beloved theme park is only three hours from Greenville and is fun for the whole family, especially during special holiday events like the nightly Christmas parade or the fall Pumpkinfest. Dollywood’s Splash Country is also amazing in the summer. Plus, preschoolers can get a free season pass! (Read our review!)

Anakeesta – Also in East Tennessee, this mountaintop village is just magical. The views are stunning and you can eat dinner or watch an outdoor movie overlooking the Smoky Mountains. They have seasonal events and offer year-round passes.

WNC Nature Center – Located in Asheville, the WNC Nature Center focuses on animals and plants in the southern Appalachian mountains. The center includes lots of shade, walkways, and natural playgrounds and is perfect for a day trip with little children.

Discovery Place – A hands-on science museum located in Charlotte

Ellaberry Llama Farm – This farm in Hendersonville is amazing. You can play with llamas!

Carowinds – A theme park located in Concord (Charlotte area) with tons of rides designed for their littlest visitors!

Hands On! Children’s Museum – A children’s museum located directly on Hendersonville’s charming Main Street, the Hands On! Children’s Museum has a target audience of children aged ten and under.

Mountain Play Lodge – An indoor play space for children in Arden that features two large climbing areas, complete with steps, multiple slides, and overhead tunnels with obstacles to climb over, around, and through.


Cool Places to Stay Experience Gifts

Why not book an amazing overnight with your family or partner for an unforgettable experience gift? Here are some awesome places to do so.

Alice's White Bunny Cottage
Alice’s White Bunny Cottage

Magical Mountain Resorts in Hayesville, NC – Stay in any number of themed cabins and buses! We loved the Alice’s White Bunny cabin.

The Ridge Outdoor Resort in Sevierville, TN – Stay in a glamping tent complete with a bathroom, bedrooms, kitchen, and living space.

Getaway Cabin at Lake Hartwell, SC – Experience the outdoors while staying cozy and comfortable in tiny cabins.

Saluda Outdoor Center in Greenville, SC – Either get a head start on booking a place where you can also go tubing over the summer or just get away at these nearby cabins, just five miles outside Greenville.

KOA in Travelers Rest, SC – You don’t need to go far for a unique overnight! Stay in a covered wagon at the KOA in Travelers Rest.

Emberglow Outdoor Resort in Mill Spring NC – Stay at any number of comfortable and pet-friendly glamping accommodations.

Sky Ridge Yurts in Bryson City, NC – This is one of our favorite places to stay in the region. The yurts are beautiful, comfortable, and have great views.

Westgate Myrtle Beach in SC – The resort has pools, a splash pad, and is right on the ocean.

Wilderness at the Smokies in Sevierville, TN – With three waterparks open in the summer and the largest indoor waterpark in Tennessee, Wilderness is at the top of our travel list when planning a fun family getaway.

Back to the top: Experience Gift Guide


Holiday and Christmas events in Greenville, SC

Have a wonderful holiday with our List of Holiday and Winter Events and Things to Do.


10 Ways to Celebrate Your Child’s Birthday Around the Holidays

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Does your child have a birthday near Christmas? Have you found yourself celebrating a birthday sitting around a Christmas tree in the living room? How can you celebrate a Christmas birthday or a birthday near Christmas and still make your child feel special? What’s the secret to making December birthdays special amid all the Christmas presents and Christmas decorations? Should we add birthday decorations to the party, too? What do birthday traditions look like mixed in with Christmas?

If you are looking for ways to celebrate birthdays near holidays, you’ve come to the right place.

Celebrate a Christmas birthday

Make Your Child’s Birthday Memorable

The holidays are usually a busy time of the year for everyone, which can make birthdays near Christmas difficult to celebrate with a group.. From traveling out of town, having family over, decorating, cooking, and wrapping presents, it seems like your ‘to-do’ list just doesn’t end. Throwing a birthday party for your child into the mix can make things even more overwhelming. Nevertheless, it’s important to make your child’s one special day of the year, just that…special!

Here are some ideas to help make the day all about them, and others you may want to avoid.

Plan Something Special Instead Of A Party

Sometimes, all the planning in the world won’t allow you to plan a birthday party that your child’s friends can attend. An actual party isn’t always necessary. Your child will be excited to have a day dedicated just to them with only having their immediate family involved.

Take them out on a day that works for your family, let them pick a fun place they would like to go (or surprise them). Try an entertainment center with games, bowling, or laser tag. Let them choose which restaurant you will go to for lunch or dinner, and take them out to pick out their birthday gift. This is an easy option that requires little planning but still makes your child feel special.

Birthday party at Christmas

Throw A Holiday Time Birthday Celebration: Close to Christmas Birthday Party Tips

Figure out the best timing

If you want to do a party, schedule the party a week before or a week after your child’s actual birthday. This is especially a good idea if your child’s birthday falls on the same date as the holiday. If your child’s birthday falls on Thanksgiving, consider celebrating the weekend before. The weekend after Thanksgiving tends to be a busy time for most people, as they are traveling home, bidding their holiday guests farewell, or starting their holiday shopping. If your child’s birthday falls on Christmas, consider scheduling their party even earlier than one week ahead. Some families travel for the holidays and head out of town as soon as the school winter holiday begins.

Get invites sent out early

If you plan on inviting friends and/or family to your child’s birthday party, give as much notice as possible. At any other time of the year, a one to two weeks’ notice would suffice; however, with people traveling or scheduling family holiday photos, it’s a good idea to give as much notice as possible.  This will also help if a majority of your potential attendees can’t make it to your party date- and gives you the opportunity to change it to a date that works for both you and your guests.

Decorate a ‘birthday only’ room

If you plan on having your child’s birthday party at home, and you have already decorated your house for the holidays, designate a room that is free of holiday decorations. Have your child pick a theme, whether it is a specific charter or color scheme, and decorate with balloons and streamers- away from all the snow globes and Christmas trees. Party City, offers a variety of themed birthday party supplies throughout the entire year.

Celebrate their half birthday

The holiday months tend to have cooler weather, so it may leave limited options for ways to celebrate your child’s birthday. Consider celebrating their ‘half birthday’ in the summer. The warmer weather opens up more outdoor options to celebrate, and schedules may be easier to coordinate since children are on school vacation. Try a local waterpark. You can still have a cake and sing happy birthday with the family on their real birthday, but wouldn’t it be a nice surprise for your child to celebrate their birthday by splashing around in the pool?

birthday gifts

Choosing The Right Gift: Birthday Presents Dos and Don’ts

Don’t use holiday wrapping paper

You may already have a closet full of holiday wrapping paper, and how convenient would it be to just grab part of a leftover roll and wrap your child’s birthday present in it? Although convenient, something as simple as ‘Happy Birthday’ wrapping paper can help separate their birthday from the holiday.

Don’t give holiday-themed gifts

During the holidays, themed or special addition toys often become available. As much as you think giving your child an Elf on the Shelf might be a good idea (since you need to buy one anyway), stick to something that doesn’t need to be put away after the holidays are over.

Get seasonal appropriate gifts

With keeping the last recommendation in mind, it’s important to stick to gifts that your child can use now. If their birthday is in December, don’t get them a blow-up swimming pool and slide for the backyard or diving sticks for the pool. While you want to separate the holiday from their birthday, it’s a good idea to get them something they can enjoy without having to wait to use it.

Skip the joint birthday/holiday gift

It sounds like an easy thing to do- two birds, one stone. It may seem like the opportune time to get your child that expensive gift they have been asking for, and make it a combined birthday/holiday gift. While it may be exciting for them for a moment, it takes out some of the fun and surprises that birthdays and holidays deliver to children.

Embrace The Holiday Birthday

As stressful as they can be, the holidays really are a fun time of the year. A holiday theme may not be a bad idea after all, if your child likes the idea. Have a birthday party where your child and their friends build gingerbread houses or decorate cookies, which they get to take home instead of a goody bag. Play ‘pin the nose on the snowman or make homemade ornaments. Michaels arts and crafts store is a great place to get seasonal crafting kits for children to make it easy to plan holiday crafts for the party. While this might not be something you want to do every year to celebrate their birthday, it’s a fun way to mix it up and embrace the holiday season!

Planning a birthday party? Check out the Kidding Around Guide to Birthdays in Greenville and Spartanburg, SC

Create a Special Birthday Bear with the Build-A-Bear ‘Count Your Candles’ Offer

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Have you visited Build-A-Bear Workshop? There’s something special about selecting a furry body and stuffing it just right to create a furry friend that kids enjoy. Kids love their custom furry friends, but it can get a little pricey. One of the great things about Build- A- Bear is their birthday treat bear offer through the Count Your Candles program.

Your child can build a birthday bear for a fraction of the cost, which can give you a pretty great deal on a birthday bear for your child. Use the program to make your child’s special day or mark a milestone like giving up that pacifier!

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Companies Ready To Set Up The Perfect Picnic or Slumber Party for You Near Greenville, SC

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Are you looking for a styled picnic service or sleepover party rentals in Greenville, SC? Wondering “Where can I find sleepover party rentals near me?” One of the better things to become a trend in the last few years is styled slumber parties and picnics. Gone are the days of a simple sleeping bag or picnic blanket being enough to wow a crowd and these small business owners are rising to the task. 

This list of talent includes people who can create a themed slumber party for your child, a themed grown-up slumber party, a themed picnic party, and even someone who can help you with a beautiful picnic celebration on the beaches of the low country. 

Whether you have a reason to celebrate, or you just want to celebrate making it through the week, the help you need is on this list! 

Pampas and Picnic and Dream House Sleepovers set-up
Photo Credit: Pampas and Picnics / Dream House Sleepovers

Themed Indoor Slumber Parties & Sleepovers

These businesses will come to your home or party venue and set up a teepee-style tent and air mattress for each child, along with matching themed items. If you don’t see the theme you are interested in, don’t hesitate to ask. 

These sleep-over setups require an area of approximately 6 feet by 4 feet per tent. The huge gain in popularity means that the availability of services books up quickly, and planning a month or more in advance might be required. 

Things typically included in a slumber party setup:

  • A teepee 
  • A Mattress and fully decorated bed
  • Themed Accessories 
  • Battery-operated fairy lights, LED neon lights or other lighted accents
  • A decorated tray table
  • Throw pillows or cushions
  • Blankets 
  • A nameplate, chalkboard name boards, or cafe board
  • Additional themed accessories
  • *For health reasons bed pillows are not supplied by most service providers

Dream House Sleepovers
What makes them unique: Aloft Greenville’s Camp Aloft is the free setup of a slumber tent in the room in place of a cot for a child. 

The Cost: Rates start at $200 for a 1- 3 child setup. More sleepover packages and add-ons are available online.

Dream House Sleepovers
Photo Credit: Dream House Sleepovers

Available themes:

  • LOL Suprise
  • Be Happy – Rainbow Theme
  • Galaxy Theme
  • Glowlight 
  • Candy Theme
  • Ivy Theme
  • Llama Theme
  • Mermaid Theme
  • Glamour Theme
  • Unicorn Theme
  • Horse Theme
  • Tik Tok Theme
  • Spa theme
  • American Girl Theme
  • Boho theme
  • Cheetah

Magical Makings (Easley, SC)

What makes them unique: Princess Theme w/ Visit from a princess character.

The Cost: contact Magical Makings for pricing and package options.

Magical Makings
Photo Credit: Magical Makings

Available themes:

  • Summer Theme
  • Shooting Stars 
  • Tropical 

Magical Makings also offers picnic setups, date night setups, and other options! Contact them for more info. 

magical makings
Photo Credit: Magical Makings

Glamp Kamp Slumber Parties (Columbia Area)

What makes them unique: They also offer Glam Picnic packages so that parents can have a memorable night too! 

The Cost: Contact Glamp Kamp Slumber Parties for a quote
Available themes:

  • LOL Surprise 
  • Glowlight 
  • Tik Tok
  • Tye Dye
  • Tropical
  • Parisian Theme
  • Barbie 
  • Gamer Theme
  • Super Hero
  • Unicorn

Sensational Sleepovers (Charlotte Area)
What makes them unique: They also offer balloon arches and other balloon statement pieces.

The Cost: Packages start at $319 for a 3 child setup, with more packages available online.

Available themes:

  • Dare to Dream – Unicorn Theme
  • City of Lights – Parisian Theme
  • Into The Woods or Campfire Bites – Camping Theme 
  • Glamor Girl 
  • Bear Hugs
  • Wonderland
  • Secret Garden 
  • Charli – TikTok Theme
  • Game On – Gamer Theme
  • FIFA Fever – Soccer 
  • Sleepy Hollow
  • Sports Connection

Glamourous Outdoor Tent Services

Looking for a fun date night option, without needing a babysitter? What about glamping in your backyard with your special person? Or if you need a mom escape, you can do it all alone! Glamping is made simple with services that set up and decorate for whatever the occasion is.

Tented Greenville
Did the themed kids’ sleepover setups make you wish you were a kid again? Unfortunately, we don’t have a time machine, but Tented Greenville can help you with their luxurious tent setups. With their help, you can throw your grownup slumber party, romantic date night, or a backyard mom escape. 

Add some fancy meat and cheeses to that glamping setup with a Custom made Charcuterie Board! 

Picture Perfect Picnic Setup Services

Glamourous picnics are the new trend in social gatherings! Add a charcuterie board, and you have an instagramable feast for the eyes, and the stomach! 

Pakita Picnics   

This Upstate picnic service offers you custom seating for your meal, along with the option of a crafty keepsake. Pakita Picnics includes a customized menu card for each setting, and their Moroccan-themed set-up is fantastic to see in person. It would undoubtedly make any meal special. 

Heather Campbell @FoodieMcFooderton
Photo Credit: Heather Campbell @FoodieMcFooderton

Check out our list of 10 Places To Grab Picnic Necessities In Greenville, SC

Picnic & Company
If you just want to make one phone call and have it all taken care of at once, Picnic & Company is the only Upstate all-inclusive picnic service. They will do everything from the table setup and decor to the food and refreshments. Your work begins and ends when you reserve them to handle your special picnic. 

Pampas and Picnics (Charleston)
I can’t think of a better way to end a beach trip with your family than a sunset picnic on the beach. Who has room to bring all the extra stuff on a beach trip for something like this, though? The good news is you can leave it to Christine with Pampas and Picnics. She can even guide you to the perfect source of food for the picnic! She’s kind of a local expert. Enjoying a glamorous picnic on the beach should be on everyone’s bucket list; I’m adding it to mine! 

Pampas and Picnics on the beach
Photo Credit: Pampas and Picnics
Birthday Party Guide, Upstate, SC

We’ve got Greenville’s BIGGEST Birthday Guide just for you!

10+ Bakers Making Custom Cookies Near Greenville, SC

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Searching for “custom cookies near me”? There are several places that will have your family in awe of your superpower ability of finding cool custom cookies in Greenville, SC for your next party or celebration. We’ve hunted down the local talent in Greenville and Spartanburg who can give you these tiny, unique, and edible works of art, no matter the occasion. See who our readers recommend for your custom cookie needs.

Looking for more great ways to celebrate birthdays in Greenville? Don’t miss Kidding Around’s Ultimate Guide to Birthdays near Greenville.

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Takeoff Mini Golf: Plane Ride for Kids Birthday Parties in Greenville, SC

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Think your child would like to visit Takeoff Mini Golf for a plane ride for their birthday? This is such a unique birthday party package sure to make any kid soar with delight.

Birthday parties give me anxiety. I’m not one of those moms that likes to plan them so when the opportunity comes along for a turnkey birthday party, count me in. Thankfully, a lot of businesses around the Upstate totally understand moms like me and have countless options for awesome birthday parties where parents have to do nothing but show up. Thank you to all of them!

But one birthday party package is extra special and that one is offered at super cool Takeoff Mini-Golf right next to Runway Park in downtown Greenville.

Take off Mini golf plane photo
Photo credit: Walker Weathers
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Where to Throw a Great Outdoor Birthday Party in Greenville, SC

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Thinking about hosting an outdoor birthday party in Greenville? Searching for “outdoor birthday party venues near me”? You’re in the right spot. One of the great things about Greenville is our moderate weather. This means birthday parties outside are often a reasonable option. We recently compiled your ideas about indoor birthday party spots but for those who like fun in the sun (or just being outdoors as long as it’s not pouring and/or freezing!), here’s a list of fabulous outdoor birthday party spots.

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15+ Birthday Ideas that Are Perfect for Babies in Greenville & Spartanburg, SC

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Planning a birthday party for a baby and searching through the first birthday party venues in Greenville, SC? What are the perfect spots in Greenville for a baby’s birthday party? Babies are a little tricky. They need a lot of supervision and a safe space. Many times, they need an indoor playground or indoor play area. That’s why we came up with this list full of first birthday party venues, parks, and other creative spots that would be perfect for babies and toddlers in Greenville, SC.

For even more ideas of where to throw the perfect party for your kid see our comprehensive guide to birthday parties in Greenville.

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Best Places for Indoor Birthday Parties in Greenville, SC

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Looking for options for indoor parties in Greenville, SC? Whether you are trying to avoid the chilly winter months, or the scorching hot summer heat, having an indoor birthday party is always a great idea! Of course, it’s a big parent win not having to do any cleanup after the little tornadoes make their way through the party, cake, and decorations. Kidding Around Greenville has compiled a list of some of the best indoor venues for birthday parties! 

These suggestions are taken from both our reader recommendations as well as other recommendations that our staff has added. We would love to add to this list, so feel free to add your own favorite places in the comments. For even more birthday party ideas are sure to consult our Ultimate Birthday Guide to Upstate, SC. It’s packed with the many options that you can find in Greenville. In addition, we also have a list of 10 Inexpensive Birthday Parties, Birthday Parties for Babies, and Outdoor Birthday Parties.


This list includes recommendations from our readers as well as unpaid mentions of some of our sponsors.

Indoor Birthday Party Places in Greenville

The Pavilion

The Pavilion in Taylors gets big props from our readers. The Bounce House or Ice Skating parties are affordable and fun and include pizza, soft drinks, cake, and even ice cream. Packages also include a 2-hour rental of a private party room. The price is currently $20/child with a minimum of 10 guests and you can ice skate and jump for $24/person. 

400 Scottswood Road
Taylors, SC
864.322.7529

Big Air

With locations in Greenville and Spartanburg, Big Air can offer awesome indoor birthday parties and often have some kind of deals going on. Birthday party packages include 10 jumpers, 60 minutes, 90 minutes, or 120 minutes of jumping depending on the package purchased, pizza, and drinks with 40 minutes of reserved seating time. Prices start at $300, with additional jump passes available for an additional fee.

660 Spartan Boulevard #200
Spartanburg, SC
864.580.6462

36 Park Woodruff Drive
Greenville, SC
864.626.5252

DEFY

Good luck getting the kids to leave the giant trampoline and foam pit heaven of DEFY, although you may be able to drag them out because they are worn out! The birthday parties include set-up and take-down, plates, napkins, utensils, and cups, plus an hour of jump time. The Epic and VIP packages include 1 large pizza and 1 large soda for every 5 jumpers. Outside food and beverage are permitted, but the Basic Package must pay a $50 fee to bring in outside food. VIP and Epic packages can bring in food without charge. Parties start at $22/guest (minimum of 10 guests required).

48 Brookfield Oaks Drive
Greenville, SC
864.412.3434

Sky Zone

Sky Zone offers a trampoline birthday party that includes pizza, drinks, 60 minutes in the party room, and more for up to 10 jumpers. They offer three packages to choose from, including:

  • Best Birthday Party ($300+tax; 90 minutes of jump time)
  • Black Light Party ($350 + tax; 120 minutes of jump time)
  • Little Leapers Party ($225 +tax; 60 minutes of jump time)

2465 Laurens Road
Greenville, SC
864.558.2400

MOTIVE School of Movement

Want to party on a real ninja course designed by actual ninjas from the TV show? MOTIVE School of Movement offers parties for ages 5 and up and includes classic obstacles like the jumping spider, warped wall, rings, balance obstacles, and more! They offer parties Friday evening, Saturday, or Sunday. Prices start at $275.

10 Webb Road
Greenville, SC
864.775.4844

The Children’s Museum of the Upstate

The Children’s Museum of the Upstate is one of the largest birthday party venues in Greenville (the Spartanburg location also offers birthday parties). Birthday parties include private rooms, cupcakes, a dedicated party host, all-day admission to the museum included for you and your guests, and more! They also offer add-ons such as party games and LEGO land. Don’t miss our review. Prices start at $200 for TCMU Spartanburg and $250 for TCMU Greenville.

300 College Street
Greenville, SC
864.233.7755

Once Upon a Dream Parties

This beautiful indoor venue specializes in princess parties. Parties at the event venue include 2 hours of rental space, a character of your choice, songs, a dance with the birthday child, and more. You can even choose to purchase a full tea party with a princess character hosting the party from beginning to end.

1099 E. Butler Road
Greenville, SC
864.421.2472

Golden Lanes & Skate

Go old school and have your child’s birthday party at roller-skating rinks Golden Lanes & Skate. They offer Skating Party Packages starting at $175.00 but also have Private Party Packages starting at $250.00 Golden Lanes also has a bowling alley and Bowling Package for up to 12 children starting at $175.00. Packages include pizza and soda in addition to skating.

108 Balcome Blvd
Simpsonville, SC
864.967.8551

Dance Without Limits

This all-inclusive dance studio in Greer will host a dance party for your child at their beautiful indoor facility. Parties are for an hour and a half and can accommodate 20 children. Themes range from ballerina to hip hop to princess ballerina, or you can create your own theme. Parties cost $175 for students of the studio and $185 for those not members of the studio.

115 Pelham Road, Unit 24
Greenville, SC
864.412.7788

The Little Gym of Greenville

While The Little Gym was named Best Gym Party by Parents Magazine, it was also highly recommended by KAG readers. The Little Gym birthday team handles everything from start to finish, including addressing and mailing invitations, all set-up and clean-up, and cake and juice boxes. They offer several themes to choose from. Prices start at $300 for up to 15 children. 

1607 Laurens Road Suite 102
Greenville, SC
864.991.3577

Kangaroo Jax

This indoor venue features bounce houses, a mini-Ferris wheel, and a carousel. Kids will love this place for an indoor birthday party; Kangaroo Jax offers several birthday party packages, starting at $209 for weekday parties, and $289 for parties Friday through Sunday.

2437 Laurens Road
Greenville, SC
864.902.5297

Pump It Up Greenville

This local bounce house venue gives parents peace of mind with a private bounce house arena for parties and pizza included. Pricing starts at $239 for small weekday parties and $319 for weekend parties for 10 children. They offer additional options for larger groups and offer a Classic, Delux, and Ultimate party package

75 Brookfield Oaks Drive, Suite 100
Greenville, SC
864.987.9022

Kroc Center

There are lots of options to have fun at the Kroc Center in Greenville – from a pool party to a climbing wall to basketball or volleyball and tennis. A bounce house birthday party is even an option. Parties include 60 minutes of play in the bounce houses or pools, along with 90 minutes of time in the party room for 12 to 25 children. They also provide catering for birthday parties for an additional cost. You may bring in your dessert or birthday cake. 

424 Westfield Street
Greenville, SC
864.527.5948

Read: Are You Familiar with the Kroc Center

TR Makers Co.

At TR Makers Co, the birthday boy/girl receives a special t-shirt made during the party by all the guests. Parties include art instruction and materials for 9 guests ages 4 and up and cost $250 for two hours. Options are available to add food but parents can also bring in their own food or order delivery. There are plenty of great places in the area of downtown Travelers Rest, like Sidewall Pizza.

3 South Main Street
Travelers Rest, SC
864.610.0996

TReehouse Café & Studio

A birthday party at the TReehouse Café & Studio in Travelers Rest guarantees to be a great experience. Kids can paint, color, and enjoy great food while getting lost in their own worlds and creating art. Review here.

27 South Main Street
Travelers Rest, SC
864.610.0996

Climb @ Blue Ridge

Our readers love Climb @ Blue Ridge for indoor birthday parties – it’s a unique experience for any level of climber and a fairly affordable option for birthday parties with an 8-person minimum at $12/climber and be for 1.5 hours. There is a $5 fee for training and gear, and a $7/belayer fee (and a parent can be the belayer). One belayer is needed per 5 climbers. You can bring your own food.

301 Bulls Road
Taylors, SC
864.895.1416

Make and Believe Artists

Your birthday party can include an art project at Make and Believe Artists in Simpsonville. Parties are 2 hours and cost $299 for up to 10 participants. Extra participants are $15 each. You can pick three art activities to do while at the party to take home. Food, drink, and cake are allowed to be brought in. 

110 Academy Street
Simpsonville, SC
864. 245.3977

Palmetto Proper

Palmetto Proper offers three birthday party packages, including You Bring the Party, Meet In the Middle, or Instant Party! They offer a private play area rental, character appearances, snacks and treats, and other add on’s. The Instant Party package offers many of the add on’s in the package, along with several themes to choose from, party favors, full concessions, birthday cake, and a party host. Prices start at $150 for members / $175 for non-members. 

164 South Main Street
Travelers Rest, SC
864.631.6769

Kids Play & Cafe

Your birthday child and their friends can celebrate indoors at Kids Play & Cafe in Easley at their fun jungle gyms, climbing apparatuses, and imaginative play areas. Birthday parties start at $339 for 10 kids.
Check out our review of Kids Play & Cafe. 

210 Fern Street
Easley, SC

864.307.8080 

Where was your child’s favorite birthday party held?

RELATED: 

Our Birthday Party Guide to Greenville
Outdoor Birthday Parties
Birthday Parties for Babies

Where to Rent Bounce Houses Near Greenville, SC

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Are you looking for the best places to rent a bounce house or slide near Greenville, SC? Parents can’t really go wrong with renting a bounce house for a birthday party or special occasion. Instant entertainment and an epic backyard party await. But where can parents rent inflatable bounce houses and slides in Greenville, SC? We asked that very question to our readers, who answered with their favorite bounce house businesses in town. If you’re looking for inflatable rentals, bounce house rentals, dry slides, inflatable water slides, bounce house obstacle courses, or a combo bounce, this is the list for you!

If you’re planning a birthday party, don’t miss our Ultimate Guide to Birthday Parties in Greenville and Spartanburg. You’ll find places to host your party, plus cake makers, cookie decorators, free birthday treats and so much more!

Bounce House Rentals in Greenville

These bounce house rental companies will bring the birthday party fun to you in the Upstate, covering areas near Greenville, SC including Travelers Rest, Taylors, Greer, Simpsonville, and Easley.

SC Party Rentals (formerly Monker Jumpers)

Monker Jumpers, which is now known as SC Party rentals, got lots of love from our readers, who noted the affordability and excellent customer service of the company. Monker Jumpers has several bounce houses, inflatable dry and wet slides, inflatable carnival games, and obstacle courses. 

Rates:

  • The smaller carnival games start around $30 and bounce houses at $150.
  • Set up and delivery are included with most rentals. 

864.982.6796

What our readers say: 

Monker jumpers! Tons of options and super affordable!

Hayley

Monker Jumpers, LLC. $175 for a bounce house/dual slide combo! Wonderful company to work with and awesome customer service

Dawn

Monker Jumpers, LLC. The best hands down!

Ashley

Wright Inflatables & Party Rentals

Kidding Around readers also really love Wright Inflatables for their products and customer service. Both wet and dry slides are offered as well as bounce houses and combos. 

Rates:

  • Bounce houses start at $150 and slides at $285.
  • Setup is included in the price; delivery is free within 15 miles of their warehouse and costs $25/every 15 miles thereafter.

864.365.3182
What our readers say: 

I just used The Wright Inflatables and Party Rentals and omg!! Love love them! Great ppl and great service!!!

Annamarie

HANDS DOWN!! The Wright Inflatables and Party Rentals. The owners are outstanding, always available for your needs and the costs just can’t be beat! We will take our business nowhere else!!

Jillian

Silly Bob’s Inflatables

There are bounce houses, slides, games, combo inflatables, obstacle courses and even an inflatable movie screen offered by Silly Bob’s.

Rates:

  • Bounce houses start at $205 for a full day
  • Rentals include set up and take down

864.346.4201

What our readers say:

Silly Bob’s! We’ve used them for 4 years now.

Erin

Sky Rocket Inflatables

Owner Shane Quinn rents out three inflatables from Sky Rocket.

Rates:

  • Rentals are between $125-$225
  • Set up and delivery are included

What our readers say:

Sky rocket inflatables is awesome!

Beth

Greenville Inflatables

Formerly called ATD Inflatables, Greenville Inflatables rents moonbounce, bounce houses, slides, combos, and obstacle courses. 

Rates:

  • Bounce house rentals start around $135
  • Customers can pick up the rental at no charge or pay $60 for delivery

864.360.3803

What our readers say:

ATD Inflatables is the best!!! I’ve used them several times

Cassey

Up-N-Jumping

Jump into the world of inflated fun from bounce houses to wet/dry slides to carnival games & concessions. Perfect for all events & special occasions! 

Rates:

  • Rentals start at $100 – Includes set up & take down. *Delivery fee may apply 

864.380.8447

Throwing an outdoor birthday party? Be sure to read Where to Throw an Outdoor Birthday Party.