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Posts Tagged ‘Birthdays’

Best Places for Indoor Birthday Parties in Greenville, SC

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Looking for options for indoor birthday 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! 

indoor birthday parties in Greenville, SC

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.

Birthday Parties in Greenville SC

For even more birthday party ideas, consult our Ultimate Birthday Guide to Upstate, SC.

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 $16/child with a minimum of 10 guests and you can ice skate or jump for $20/person. 

400 Scottswood Road
Taylors, SC
864.467.3486

Big Air

With locations in Greenville and Spartanburg, Big Air can offer awesome indoor birthday parties and often has 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

Sky Zone

Sky Zone offers 3 trampoline birthday party packages for up to 10 jumpers:

  • Best Birthday Party ($325+tax; 90 minutes of jump time + 60 minutes of party room time + pizza and drinks)
  • Glow Party ($350 + tax; 3 hours of jump time + 3 hours of party room time + pizza)
  • Little Leapers Party (kids 5 and under, only Saturdays 9 am – 11 am) ($250 +tax; 2 hours 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 on Saturday evenings. 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 $200 but also have Private Party Packages starting at $280. Golden Lanes also has a bowling alley and Bowling Package for up to 12 children starting at $200. 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 $200 for students of the studio and $250 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 packages include 1.5 hours of gym time, full rental of facility, bottled water for the kids, setup and cleanup, paper goods. They offer several themes to choose from. Prices start at $350 for up to 15 guests. 

1607 Laurens Road Suite 102
Greenville, SC
864.772.3887

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 $269 for weekday parties, and $290 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 $249 for small weekday parties and $329 for weekend parties for 10 children. They offer additional options for larger groups and offer a Classic, Deluxe, 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
864.610.2266

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 $10 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 4 birthday party packages! They offer a private play area rental, decorations, 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. Private party prices start at $350 for 10 kids. (Note* Palmetto Proper will be temporarily closing at the end of 2024 to upgrade to a new location and branding. Please contact them directly).

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 

Play Cafe at Judson Mill

The Play Cafe at Judson Mill is an indoor playground that offers birthday party packages in Greenville, SC. There are 3 different birthday party packages that all include a private party room and start at $249 for up to 15 guests. Be sure to read our full review of the Play Cafe at Judson Mill.

701 Easley Bridge Road, Unit 6040
Greenville, SC
864.203.0330

Where was your child’s favorite birthday party held?

RELATED: 

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

50+ Experience Gifts in Greenville, SC & The Upstate 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, Judson Mill Play Cafe, 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 $125 (homeschool families can take advantage of the teacher price of $120). 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 $65 and go up to $99 per person. The Rec ‘N Crew pass, priced at $160, 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 Gift Cards – They offer a variety of gift card packages so your giftee can 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 – 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 – 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 – 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 – 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.

The Well is home to Monster Jam! You can grab tickets now for Monster Jam on January 4th and 5th, 2025. 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 – Local theatre company that performs shows for various age groups

Spartanburg Youth Theatre – Local youth theatre that performs shows for kids by kids

Ballet Spartanburg – Performs beautiful ballet at Chapman Cultural Center

Greer Cultural Center – 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 – Cheer on a hometown team with tickets to a local college’s sporting events. Local schools include ClemsonUSC UpstateWofford, and Converse.

Spartanburg Memorial Auditorium – 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 – Offers theatre classes for kids preschool – high school

Sylvan Learning Center – In addition to tutoring, Sylvan Learning Center also offers Robotics for Kids.

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

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

Spartanburg Art Museum – 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.

Upstate Archery Academy– Offers gift cards for range time at the center or lessons with the instructors.

Back to the top: Experience Gift Guide

Experience Gifts in Spartanburg

Big E Gaffney – Movies, putt-putt, bowling, ropes course, and more

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

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

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

Trapped in the Upstate – Trapped in the Upstate also has a Spartanburg location with more puzzles to solve together, including Prison Break and Striking Gold.

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.

Happy Hive

With Happy Hive Bee Co.’s Adopt-a-Hive Program, you can gift a year of bee-filled fun — no beekeeping gear required!

Each adoption includes:

  • 🐝 Sponsored hive in an SC apiary
  • 📸 Monthly updates with photos and videos
  • 🍯 Jars of honey from their bees
  • 🎉 An invite to a spring pollinator picnic and hive visit

It’s the perfect gift for nature-loving kids (and grown-ups too)!

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 48 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 – 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 – 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 – 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 – 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 – 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.

View of biltmore estates
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. [CLOSED DUE TO HURRICANE DAMAGE]

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

Ellaberry Llama Farm – This farm in Hendersonville is amazing. You can play with llamas! [CLOSED DUE TO HURRICANE DAMAGE]

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.

Buffalo Creek Vacations in Clyde, NC – Stay in a real caboose on a buffalo ranch. It’s as cool as it sounds.

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.

The Glamping Collective in Canton, NC – Stay in a luxury dome or glass cabin with views of the Smoky Mountains and your own hot tub. This is absolutely a bucket list trip.

Back to the top: Experience Gift Guide


Go to the Holiday Guide
Holiday and Christmas events in Greenville, SC

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


Happy Birthday! Here’s a List of Where You Can Get a Free Treat!

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Here’s our list of places to get free birthday treats in Greenville! This list is for informational purposes only. Please double-check with the places listed here to ensure that these deals are still current.

Birthday Party Guide, Upstate, SC

For more of our birthday articles plus a massive list of places to have that special party see our Ultimate Guide to Birthdays in Greenville.

Birthday coming up?  There are lots of free eats and treats available to help you celebrate!  Most places require you to sign up for their applicable rewards program or subscribe to their e-mails to receive these birthday offers.  Here’s our list of free treats and what you have to do to enjoy them.  Happy Birthday from all of us at Kidding Around!

free birthday treats greenville sc

Anthropologie

Sign up for their loyalty program and get a birthday surprise.

Bad Daddy’s Burgers

Free food on your birthday when you sign up for their club.

Bruegger’s Bagels

Join Bruegger’s eclub for a free birthday treat, and a free bagel and cream cheese when you sign up.

Chili’s

Chili’s rewards members receive a free dessert on birthdays.

Culvers

Sign up for e-mails and receive a free one-scoop sundae, which expires 2 weeks after your birthday.

Crumbl

Enjoy a $5 voucher to use on your birthday when you download the app.

Dairy Queen

Sign up for Dairy Queen’s fan club and get a free treat on your birthday!

Denny’s

Enjoy a free birthday gift on your birthday when you sign up for Denny’s reward program!

Dunkin Donuts

When you sign up for DD Perks, you get 3x points on your birthday AND the days surrounding your birthday.

Eggs Up Grill

Free breakfast on your birthday.

Firehouse Subs

Sign up for Firehouse Rewards and receive a free medium sub on your birthday.

IHOP

A free full stack of pancakes on your birthday when you sign up for IHOP’s reward program.

Jason’s Deli

Join Jason’s Deli’s rewards program and receive a sweet treat on your birthday.

Jeni’s

Free scoop on your birthday when you sign up with their reward points.

Josey’s Chuckwagon

Free birthday meal when you sign up for their VIP account.

Krispy Kreme

You can join Krispy Kreme’s reward program and get a free treat on your birthday.  Other offers vary by location.

Moe’s Southwest Grill

Sign up for Moe’s Rockin’ Rewards App and get a free birthday surprise every year.

Nothing Bundt Cakes

Join the eclub and get a free bundlet on your birthday.

Olive Garden

Join Olive Garden EClub for a free birthday dessert.

Panera Bread

Receive a free bakery treat via Panera Bread’s rewards Panera Card.

P.F. Chang’s

Join P.F. Chang’s rewards program for free dessert or appetizer during your birthday month.

Pepsi

Children on their 6th birthday get a free Pepsi Party Pack that month in Greenville. See our article on the Pepsi Party Pack for details.

Planet Smoothie

Planet Smoothie E-Club Members receive a special birthday offer.

Red Lobster

Members who join the Fresh Catch Club at least 7 days before their birthday, will receive a special offer.

Red Robin

Free burger on your birthday (or free Kids Meal) when you join Red Robin’ Royalty’s Reward Program.

Sephora

Choose a free birthday gift from Sephora when you sign up for their Insiders club.

Sidewall Pizza

Free dine-in pizza (or $10 off your take-out pizza) on your birthday when you sign up for the Birthday Club.

Starbucks

Join Starbucks Rewards and receive a free drink on your birthday.

Steak ‘N Shake

eClub members  at Steak ‘N Shake will receive a birthday coupon.

Texas Roadhouse

Subscribe to Texas Roadhouse for free deals and birthday offers.

Which Which

Vibe Club members receive a free which on their birthday.


Build a Bear Birthday

Check out the birthday treat bear offered on kids’ birthdays at Build-A-Bear Workshops.

Did you know your kid can get treats and rewards for good grades? Here’s a list of places that offer rewards for a good report card.


Do you know of any other free birthday treats in Greenville? Let us know in the comments!

Find a Unicorn at Hidden Pasture Farm in Fountain Inn, SC

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You don’t have to travel to the end of a rainbow to find a unicorn; it’s right outside of Greenville! Hidden Pasture Farm, located in Fountain Inn, SC was the perfect birthday surprise. Find out about this little farm and the unique unicorn experiences they offer, along with pony rides, farm animals, play space, parties, and more!

This article has been updated with 2024 pricing and information. The review is from an experience in 2019.

Hidden Pasture Farm Unicorns

The Unicorns at Hidden Pasture Farm

Having been in contact with Kate, the owner, I had booked a 2-hour “unicorn” experience in which my daughter would have one on one time with “George” the unicorn. I couldn’t wait to dress her up and bring her.

Once we arrived, we were greeted by Kate who had a wonderful story about all the unicorns at the farm and how they came to Hidden Pasture. She told us about each of their stories, where they came from, and what type of unicorns they were. George, the imperial unicorn, Sapphire, the half Pegasus unicorn who’s wings can only be seen when it rains, as well as many other “half unicorns”.

We also were introduced to “Snoopy” the turkey who had more personality than most adults I have met. We started off holding a baby bunny while the unicorns were getting ready to meet our birthday girl and my son found a playground that overlooked the chickens, ponies, and riding circle. 

Hidden Pasture Farm play area

George the Unicorn

In excited anticipation, it was time to meet the unicorn named George. He had blue eyes (as all purebred unicorns do) a glittery horn, a wreath of flowers around his neck, and a big blue bow on his tail.

Kate handed him off so my daughter could walk him out to the pine tree forest and snap some photos. She also gave her a brush to brush his hair. He was a very smart unicorn and understood many commands, which made it easy for my 7-year-old to lead him around.

Pony Rides

After George, we were introduced to two more unicorns, as well as some ponies that the kids were able to ride. Having only rode a pony once before, the kids were excited to saddle up and ride around the circle. Even some of the chickens wanted in on the action and came up the steps to have a look.

Kate took each kid around several times one way and then the other while the sunset in the background of the farm. It was beautiful. We still had more to see after the pony ride as we continued to tour the rest of the farm and made our way to the other unicorns, the chickens, and even the peacocks where the kids were given colorful feathers.

Ponies at Hidden Pasture Farm

On our walk around the farm we found out that the farm not only does birthday parties which includes bounce houses, pony rides, and the full farm experience, but also some of the ponies are taken to nursing homes to help as emotional support pets as well. Kate made it a truly unique and wonderful experience and we cannot wait to go back and visit all the new friends we made at this magical little farm.

Events at Hidden Pasture Farm

The farm offers many different special events throughout the year. You’ll find many of them on the Kidding Around Calendar.

The popular events include:

  • Fall Fest
  • Candicorn Fair
  • Yuletide Unicorn Festival
  • Easter Egg Hunts

General Admission: $12 per person (age 3+). Admission for events will vary based on the event.

Hidden Pasture Farm also offers birthday parties, kids’ camps, photo shoots, venue rentals, and even a small Airbnb!

Hidden Pasture Farm
245 Little Virginia Road, Fountain Inn | 864.477.9284


Ride An Indoor Ferris Wheel and Carousel at Kangaroo Jax

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You know those days when you are awakened by your kids at the crack of dawn and it’s raining or it’s too hot or too cold outside and there is just no way you are dealing with energetic little people in your house all day? Kangaroo Jax, an indoor bounce house complete with a ferris wheel, carousel, arcade games, and concessions can help you out. Read on to learn all about this new, indoor play place your kids will love!

About Kangaroo Jax

I first heard of Kangaroo Jax through a friend and honestly did not believe it to be as cool as she said. Kids can bounce around for as many hours as they like for one admission fee? And they can ride a carousel and ferris wheel for no extra charge?

This place does exist and it’s as neat as you’ve probably heard. Not only do they have an enormous space filled with things to help your kid get out energy, they also do birthday parties!

Kangaroo Jax indoor bounce house Greenville

Admission Pricing

Monday through Friday, kids 2-12 are $12 each and Saturday and Sunday $15 each. There is no limit to how long your child can play. Kids up to 12 years old are welcome to play at Kangaroo Jax.

But what about the little kids? During the week, children ages 2-5 can play for just $9 from 10 am – 2 pm.

What about kids under the age of two? Can they come? Yes! There is actually an entire space at Kangaroo Jax dedicated to kids under four years old. As a parent of a child in this age range, I love this feature because it helps my peace of mind to know that no big kids will accidentally be knocking around my little one.

Kids under 1 are free with another paying child. If you don’t have another paying child, or if you have multiple children under 1 years old, you’ll have to pay $9 for at least one child.

Birthday Parties

A good birthday party is one where parents have little to no work to do and kids have all the fun. That’s the secret sauce at Kangaroo Jax. They do everything for parents, from setting up the room with balloons and table settings to ordering and serving the food, which comes with the Mega Party and Ultimate Party packages.

The baseline Jax’s Birthday Party includes 10 guests, 1 hour and 45 minutes of party room use, online invitations, paper goods and balloons, 2 pizza slices, and a soda or juice per paying child. This party package is $349 Friday – Sunday and $269 Monday – Thursday.

The Jax’s Mega Party includes all of the above in addition to two slices of pizza plus one soft drink per child and is $279 Friday – Sunday and $199 Monday – Thursday.

The Jax’s Ultimate Party includes all of the above plus party favors. This party is $380 Friday – Sunday and $299 Monday – Thursday.

Parents can add more than 10 children for a party to each package for an additional fee. If they want more pizza or extra balloons or extra drink pitchers, those options are available as well.

Parents can also bring your own birthday cake/cupcakes, your own goodie bags, fruit or veggie trays, individual bags of chips/pretzels, and additional decorations. No other outside food or drink is permitted. When the party is over, all of the guests are able to play on the main floor until closing time.

It’s recommended you book your date ahead of time, especially on weekends, since they tend to fill up fast.

Kangaroo Jax Birthday Parties

Tips When You Go

I took my kids to Kangaroo Jax on a big school holiday so there were a lot of kids, but it never felt too crowded or overwhelming since the place is huge and there are lots of things to do. I love that this place is open on most school holidays and breaks (and even snow days) and all summer when the kids are out of school. It has gone straight to the top of my “things to do with kids” list.

One thing to note is that your kids will need socks, so be sure to bring them or have an extra pair or two in your car.

Also, fill out your waiver online to save time so when you get to Kangaroo Jax you won’t have anxious kids waiting to play!

Kangaroo Jax has concessions including pizza, pretzels, and even coffee, which makes it pretty easy to spend a good chunk of time there. The owners were insightful about the needs of families when they designed the place.

So when you need a break and the kids need a place to get out their enormous supply of energy, try Kangaroo Jax!

Kangaroo Jax
2437 Laurens Road, Greenville
Monday-Thursday: 10 am – 6 pm
Friday-Saturday: 10 am – 8 pm
Sunday: 11 am – 6 pm
864.902.5297

Bounce House at Kangaroo Jax

What’s your child’s favorite thing to do at Kangaroo Jax?

10 Cheap Birthday Party Ideas in Greenville, SC for $100 or Less

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Are you looking for cheap birthday party options or free places to have a birthday party for your child in Greenville, SC? Birthdays on a budget are totally possible. Here’s a list of local birthday party venues and services that cost less than $100 (some are even free).

Birthday Party Guide, Upstate, SC

For even more birthday party ideas be sure to see our Ultimate Guide to Birthday Parties in Upstate, SC.

Do you feel overwhelmed by the work involved in throwing a birthday party completely by yourself at home but don’t have the budget to spend hundreds on a venue or entertainment?

No worries! Here’s our list of cheap and inexpensive birthday parties to the rescue. We have several ideas for venues and entertainers that offer budget options under $100. Some of these parties are almost free and others include a venue and entertainment for a low fee.

This article does include information about our sponsors as well as other reader-recommended businesses in Greenville. Prices and details may change without notice.


Cheap Birthday Party Ideas: Greenville, SC

Mini Golf Party Package at McPherson Park

McPherson Park has a free and beautiful mini-golf course. So gather a few friends, some putters, and balls, enjoy the park, and make party planning easy. And, for just $75 you can have the City of Greenville help out with their Mini Golf Party Package! The package includes 20 putters, 20 balls, scorecards, and pencils. You can reserve your package on the City of Greenville reservation website. There are also shelters to rent, or if your party is small, there is ample shade to spread some blankets for a birthday picnic or tea party.

Free mini-golf at McPherson Park in Greenville, SC

Local Parks

A popular way in the warmer months to save money on a birthday party is to rent a picnic shelter near a fun playground. The price is typically dependent on the area and the size of the pavilion, so a good way to save money is to look for small shelters at the nicer parks. Some great choices are:

Runway Park – Greenville’s Downtown Airport’s Runway Park shelter is popular due to its location right beside an active runway and its airplane-themed playground. The small shelter rents for just $90 for a two-hour rental on Fridays-Sundays to $60 for a three-hour rental on Mondays-Thursdays.

This playground is very hot and has little shade though so plan an evening party if your party is in one of the hottest months of the year, otherwise, you may find it too hot to really enjoy the play equipment.

See our review of Runway Park for more information.

Kids Planet at Century Park in Greer is also a great park to have your next affordable birthday party. They rent several picnic shelters in various sizes that are budget-friendly, all of which are located beside all the playgrounds. Your kids can play around the parks and come back for pizza and drinks at the picnic table. Shelter rental prices range from $20-$30 for small or large shelters if you are a resident of Greer, and $30-$40 for nonresidents. Rentals are for 2-hour time slots and must be reserved ahead of time.

Of course, there are many, many more picnic shelters available in town. You can find a complete list of the websites for information on these shelters in our Birthday Party Guide to Greenville.

There are also several Community Centers available for not much more than $100. One reader mentioned that the Bobby Pearse Community Center was great and even came with a kitchen and easy access to a playground.

Fire Stations

Some fire stations offer birthday parties for free, though a donation is typically requested. The best way to determine if your local fire station offers this benefit is just to call and ask. Plus, what kid doesn’t love a firefighter birthday party theme? Please note that this list is subject to change, but these local fire stations have allowed birthday parties in the past, though pricing is unknown.

Pepsi Party Pack

If you have a child turning 6, don’t forget to pick up their Pepsi Party Pack. This free special package is filled with tickets to area attractions and also includes supplies for a Pepsi Party. It’s completely free but there are only specific days that you can claim it. It comes with some simple party favors like soda, pencils, tattoos, and balloons to create the perfect birthday party at home.

Climb@Blue Ridge

KAG-Reader-recommended Climb@Blue Ridge offers parties at $12 per person with a minimum of 8 people. Bring your birthday cake or ice cream and party decor and enjoy 1 hour of climbing and 30 minutes of cake and presents at your kid’s next birthday bash!

Greenville Zoo

Though the Greenville Zoo is currently restructuring its birthday party packages, a cheaper and more informal option for a birthday is to purchase Greenville Zoo tickets. You can purchase adult tickets for $12 each, and children’s tickets for $9 each online. For a small birthday party of 5 kids and 4 adults, the total would be less than $100, and the zoo activities will make for a special day.

The adjoining Cleveland Park also has several small shelters (not the large ones right beside the big playground) available to rent for as little as $60/day or $40/half day.

Craft Stores

If you have a group of craft lovers looking for a place to create, then ReCraft Creative Reuse Center may be a good option for your kid’s birthday party. The center does not have birthday party packages specifically, but for a nominal fee of $7 per crafter, your kids can create from a collection of over 100 loose parts materials. Reservations can be made for up to 10 crafters by calling ahead of time.

Recraft Creative ReUse Center in Greenville, South Carolina

Find out why we LOVE ReCraft Greenville in our Kidding Around Review!

Restaurants

Several fast-food restaurants offer party packages or will allow you to reserve a table and bring in a cake if you make prior arrangements for a simple birthday celebration.

Birthday Party policies and offerings vary from location to location, but Chick-fil-A is also a popular place to host a kids’ birthday. Their Taylors, SC Wade Hampton location has an indoor playground, which would be a good option for smaller parties.

SC State Park

An interesting birthday party idea for families who love the outdoors is visiting a SC State Park! You can have a huge picnic, and in the summer months play on the sandy beach at places like Paris Mountain State Park or Table Rock State Park.

Admission varies by location, but it is typically less than $20 for a family of 4. Plus, if anyone is a SC All Parks Passport holder, you can get your carload in for free! Paris Mountain State Park is a great option! It has a sandy beach, playground, large green space, easy hiking trails for kids around Lake Placid, and even volleyball. You’ll have the perfect birthday party relaxing in the sunshine and enjoying your friends and family.

Carolina Cheer

This indoor gym offers birthday parties for a gym venue rental fee + $6/child so if you have 10 kids, the cost is less than $100. Parents can bring in anything they like and Carolina Cheer provides tables, chairs, and tablecloths. They are located in Greer. *Note: We are still waiting on pricing confirmation or changes for 2024. Please contact Carolina Cheer directly for pricing.


Cleveland Park

If you live on the Spartanburg side of the Upstate, be sure to also check out our list of Inexpensive Birthday Parties in Spartanburg.

What inexpensive birthday party packages would you recommend in Greenville?

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

Where to Rent Bounce Houses Near Greenville, SC

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Are you looking for the best places to rent a bounce house in Greenville, SC? Parents can’t really go wrong with bounce house and inflatable rentals for a birthday party or special occasion. Instant entertainment and an epic backyard party await. But where can parents rent inflatable slides and bounce houses 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!

bounce houses Greenville, SC

Birthday Party Guide, Upstate, SC

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: Greenville, SC

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.

More than just bounce houses, these companies have all kinds of inflatable rentals. Greenville, SC has businesses that rent everything from bounce castles to obstacle courses and slides.

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. SC Party Rentals 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 $175.
  • 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 $175 and slides at $350.
  • Setup is included in the price; delivery is free within 15 miles of their warehouse and costs by the mile, every 15 miles thereafter.

864.702.2556
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:

  • Bounce house rentals start at $175
  • Set up and delivery are included

What our readers say:

Sky rocket inflatables is awesome!

Beth
bounce houses Greenville, SC

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.

Resources and services guide to the Upstate of South Carolina

Looking for more great resources for parents in Greenville, SC? You’ll want to check out our Resources & Services Guide!

Find Your Way Out of The Corn Maze at Greyrock Farms at Night

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Greyrock Farms is moving locations in 2024. They will not be open Fall 2024.

Fall is here and it’s time to head to a local farm for a corn maze, hayride and more! Local mom Kristina visited Greyrock Farms in Moore and is giving us all the details here. This local farm includes multiple corn mazes, fresh produce and pumpkins, and a working dairy farm!

Corn maze scary fun at night, kid family fun at the farm during the day is exactly what Greyrock Farms and Green Acres Produce is all about. With one of the last remaining dairy farms in the Upstate, they have a farm stand with fresh produce and fruit from April through October, and the Fall is all about pumpkins, dairy tours, and old-fashioned fun on the farm.

One of the great things I really loved about Greyrock Farms is that it is the perfect size to let your kids run around where you keep an eye on them. For no cost, the farm has playgrounds, swings, and different play structures made out of typical things you’d find a farm.

They have parking on-site, just follow the signs. The largest sign you will see when you pull up is for “Green Acres Produce” – that’s the place you are looking for. Also, be sure to wear sneakers or closed toe shoes. It’s a farm where there are ants and other crawly things so just be prepared.

Corn Maze & Dairy Tours at Greyrock Farms

If you really want to get lost in the six-acre corn maze (which is fairly easy to do), it’s $8/person and kids under two are free. You can also tour the dairy farm for $6/person and see a cow getting milked and check out all the baby cows. The tour is conducted on a hayride and ends at the pumpkin patch, where you can pick your own pumpkin right off the vine. Tours are Saturdays at 10 am and 2 pm and Sundays at 2 pm.

If you want to do both the tour and the corn maze, it’s $12/person and kids two and under are free. There are actually two corn mazes – a smaller one and a big one – which is great for kids of all ages to choose from.

Nighttime corn maze entertainment happens every Friday and Saturday night in October until 9 pm. But you have to bring your own flashlight!

Greyrock Farms corn maze

Birthday Parties & Group Fun at Greyrock Farms

If your child has a fall birthday, Greyrock Farms is a perfect venue to host a party. They have a huge picnic shelter right in the middle of the big play area so kids can enjoy the farm and celebrate the birthday child.

The Standard Dairy Farm Birthday Package includes an hour shelter reservation, wagon ride and dairy tour and costs $150 for 12 children ($8/each additional child). The Ultimate Dairy Farm Package includes everything on the standard package plus goody bags, cow train, and paper products and decorations. That package is $200 for 12 kids ($10/each additional child).

If you want to go all out, choose the Cooowww-riffic Dairy Farm Package which includes everything in the aforementioned parties plus a cow cake, 12 cupcakes and ice cream cups, and a baby calf at the party that can be bottle fed by guests (awwww!). This package is $250 for 12 kids ($12/each additional child). All packages include a party hostess, set up and breakdown, and access to the play areas. Parents are free to bring food, ice cream and cake.

The farm also hosts lots of church groups and field trips over the fall as well. The corn maze especially sees lots of activity for group outings (and it makes a great date activity, especially at night!). They will even do a big bonfire if your group wants to really get in the fall spirit.

Greyrock Farms is ideal for family fun during the fall but don’t forget they also have strawberry picking come April. That’s actually how I first heard of them – my oldest daughter had a field trip there one spring to pick strawberries. They were absolutely delicious and I was delighted to learn about all the activities the farm has for families in the fall season. They are open through the end of October so be sure to put this great farm on your fall bucket list.

play area at Greyrock Farms

Visit Greyrock Farms

Greyrock Farms & Green Acres Produce
5750 Anderson Mill Road, Moore
864.576.2784

Looking for a fall event that your whole family is sure to enjoy? Check out Greyrock Farms Second Annual Fall Farm Day! Enjoy a family fun day on the farm! During fall farm day there will be hayrides, pumpkin picking, playground fun, inflatables, kids crafts, games and more!

October 6th
10:00 am – 5:00 pm

Visit the Greyrock Farms & Green Acres Produce Facebook page.

Seasonal farm hours:

Monday – Saturday 10 am – 6 pm
Sunday 1 pm – 6 pm
Fridays and Saturdays in October – open until 9 pm

Has your family visited a local farm yet this fall?

My Daughter’s Super Fun Birthday Party at Pigtails & Crewcuts

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KAG team member Elizabeth shares her family’s birthday party experience at Pig Tails and Crew Cuts.  For more great birthday ideas, check out Kidding Around Greenville’s Ultimate Birthday Party Guide.

Thank you to Pigtails & Crewcuts for hosting my daughter’s birthday party in exchange for this review.  Even though the party was given in trade, all opinions are my own!

Okay so I think I got the title of this post wrong.  It should be “my daughter’s super fun and SUPER EASY birthday party at Pigtails & Crewcuts” but that seemed a little long.  And I really needed an easy party this year.  You see, when my daughter turned 7 she wanted a party at home.  What I expected to be a low-key party ended up being 14 little girls, a cheer theme party, complete with high school cheerleaders.

I scoured pintrest for birthday party ideas for weeks.  I spent the entire week prior to the party making pom poms out of streamers and cutting megaphones out of poster board for 14 little girls to decorate and scream into. (What was I thinking?!?)  I enlisted the services of a few high school cheerleaders and begged my friend to stay and help me manage the bash.

The girls made megaphones, learned cheers, danced, even had their faces painted. The party was fun; really fun.  I, however, was completely exhausted when it was finally over.  And my house was a wreck.  I had spent a ridiculous amount of time and way more money than I had intended.

So when my daughter’s 8th birthday rolled around I had one firm rule – the party was not going to be at home.  Nope.

Pigtails & Crewcuts haircuts for kids

Before the party

My daughter is a girly girl.  She loves playing dress up, dons lip gloss any chance she gets and adores getting her nails done, even if only on my bathroom floor.  So it seemed like a no-brainer to hold her party at a salon where she and her little buddies could be pampered and play dress up.  And my excitement was only heightened when, after chatting over the party plans with the salon owner, I realized all I had to do was bring cupcakes.  They would handle the rest. Sign me up!

So rather than spending weeks getting ready for the party I spent, ummm, maybe an hour picking up cupcakes for the party.  The helpful staff at Pigtails & Crewcuts took care of everything else.  It was exactly what I was hoping for!

Party time

We arrived a bit early so my daughter could get all dolled up before her guests arrived.  She had plenty to choose from – would she be a princess or a diva?  She even had the option of a pirate but she’s way too fancy for that!  She got her hair styled in a way her mom could never pull off and her nails painted exactly as she requested.  When her guests arrived she looked like the little diva I know her to be all too well!

After each and every little girl got dressed up, hair styled perfectly and nails manicured to her specifications they posed for a group picture.  I mean, what’s cuter than a group of little girls all dolled up for a night out?  Or, in this case, a night in!

The group picture needed a fancy frame to be proudly displayed by every guest so, of course, there was a fun craft involved.  Each guest was given a wood picture frame and more pretty decorating options than they could handle!  They got serious about picture frame decorating and every girl went home with a keepsake photo in the frame they created – perfect!

Last came singing, cupcakes, lots of hugs goodbye and, just like that, the party was over.  Or almost.  My daughter had one special party extra – her big night ended with getting her ears pierced!  Not part of the party package but saved us the trip to the mall we had scheduled for the next day, so a win-win if you ask me!  After that was done, we packed up and headed home.  It was the perfect party for my now 8 year old daughter & the completely stress-free party I was looking for.  No stress, no mess for me to clean up, and the girls all had a blast!

birthday party for kids

Party packages at Pigtails & Crewcuts

Pigtails & Crewcuts is a brand new salon for kids on Augusta Road.  Of course they cut hair but they also offer a hair products, accessories and gifts too! They even offer a special package for first haircuts, including a souvenir card with your child’s name, the date of the haircut, a lock of hair and a photo to take home, so your family can look back on this day and smile.  Plus they do nail painting, as well as up-dos or braids should you have a special occasion in your near future.  And, of course, fun party packages too!

Pretty Little Princess
(recommended for ages 3-5)

It’s a royal ball! All princesses will dress up in our beautiful gowns and receive two of the following services: a pretty up-do (topped with a tiara), makeup or colorful nail polish! A game of “Pin the Candle on the Cupcake” and decorating a picture frame to take home with a picture of all the princesses in it is part of the event as well.

$300 (for up to 10 guests)

Darling Divas
(recommended for ages 5-10)

For a diva in the making! Strike a pose! These glamorous girls will be treated to sequined dresses to wear as well as two of the following services: a fashionable up-do, pretty makeup or colorful nail polish. Revelers can also decorate a picture frame to take home with a picture of their paparazzi ready crew in it and rock out on our karaoke machine!

$300 (for up to 10 guests)

Sweetheart Spa
(recommended for ages 8-12)

Time to get pampered! All spa guests get treated to a pedicure while relaxing in a comfy robe with cucumbers over her eyes. A choice of a fun braid or colorful nail polish will complete the look while each guest also get to decorate their own picture frame to take home with a picture of the party crew in it.

$300 (for up to 10 guests)

birthday party packages Pigtails & Crewcuts

Ahoy Matey!
(recommended for ages 3-6)

Even pirates like a party! All pirates are welcome aboard as they put on his pirate gear to begin their adventure. Each matey will pick out a tattoo and have their hair “painted.” They will also love going on a treasure hunt to find hidden treasure and decorating a picture frame to take home with their pirate crew in it.

$300 (for up to 10 guests)

Superhero Squad
(recommended for ages 3-6)

Calling all superheroes! All crusaders are welcome as each guest starts this party by transforming into a superhero sporting a cape. Everyone takes home a frame they have decorated with a picture of their superselves in it!

$300 (for up to 10 guests)

Build-a-Bash!

If these parties are not exactly what you are looking for, call us to customize your own special event.

For all parties Pigtails & Crewcuts provides a party hostess, choice of two services, age-appropriate themed activity, paper goods, set up & clean-up.

birthday parties in Greenville

2 locations in Greenville

Pigtails & Crewcuts Greenville
2222 Augusta Street
Greenville, SC
864.248.4844

Pigtails & Crewcuts Five Forks
2815 Woodruff Road
Simpsonville, SC
864.626.3338

Would your little one love a birthday party at Pigtails & Crewcuts?

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