Got a kid who loves cars and looking for activities to do around North and South Carolina? Because we’re located in an area where there are many car lovers, there are plenty of things to do and see. From museums to events to drag ways and speedways, your little car enthusiast will have so much oohing and aahing over classic cars, concept cars, race cars, and so much more. We’ve rounded up a list of some of the best things to do across the Carolinas for the kid who loves cars.
The BMW Zentrum Museum in Greer is a one-of-a-kind experience for any car enthusiast. Visitors get to experience BMW from its beginnings in aviation and motorsports to where it is now on a global scale. You’ll see BMW’s milestones, rare vehicles from the past such as the famous Isetta “Bubblecar”, and restored classics. You’ll also be able to explore current BMW vehicles through modern-day exhibits and displays. For safety purposes, vehicle doors remain locked in the museum. The museum itself is self-guided, but you can book guided tours of the plant and factory if you prefer that.
Cars and Coffee is an Upstate SC gathering for car enthusiasts that takes place on the 4th Saturday of each month. Visitors have the opportunity to see sports cars, exotic cars, classic cars, and more. The gathering takes place in a Michelin parking lot, so the Michelin cafeteria is open for visitors to grab a coffee and various pastries.
Local car groups and organizations frequently organize car shows at local venues. They are often free and sometimes include other fun things to do like trunk or treats at Halloween or benefit charities, like toy drives around Christmas.
To find car shows near you, check online and on Facebook. In Upstate, SC, you’ll find a list of some of the upcoming car shows at Upstate Car Shows.
The Greer Dragway, established in 1957, features a 1/8th mile concrete and asphalt strip and has Grudge Racing every Thursday and Bracket Racing every Saturday. There’s a weather radar, a concession stand, and clean restrooms on the premises.
Located in Easley, the Greenville-Pickens Speedway features a half-mile of asphalt to give your entire family an experience they won’t forget. The track hosts weekly NASCAR-sanctioned races, which is bound to give any car enthusiast starry-eyes. In addition to racing, the Speedway offers events throughout the year, including the Upstate Holiday Lights Show.
The Charlotte Motor Speedway, located in Concord, NC, is a motorsport complex featuring a 1.5 mile quad oval track that hosts NASCAR racing. Events include the Coca-Cola 600 on Memorial Day weekend, The Bank of America Roval 400 in October, and more. Ticket prices range from event to event, so it’s best to see the Charlotte Motor Speedway website for ticket details.
Affectionately known as “The Bellagio of Race Tracks,” the zMAX Dragway in Concord, NC is a venue at Charlotte Motor Speedway featuring the world’s first 4-lane drag strip for NHRA races and other events. Ticket prices range from event to event, so it’s best to see the Charlotte Motor Speedway website for ticket details.
AutoBarn Classic Cars is a 60,000-square-foot indoor showroom located at the Gibson Mill community gathering spot in Concord. It’s just a 10-minute drive away from Charlotte Motor Speedway and is a great place to browse classic and concept cars. And for an added bonus, race cars and classic memorabilia are up for sale.
Morrison Motor Car Musem is full of sports and muscle cars. There are more than 50 cars featured in this exhibit, all from the past century. There’s also a gift shop and opportunities to buy a collector car such as a Mustang or Camaro on the property’s lot.
Morrison Motor Car Museum Details:
Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 9:30 am – 4 pm // Saturday 9:30 am – 3:00 pm
Ticket Cost: General Admission $8 // Seniors and Children under age 5 $6
This showroom carries an impressive collection of street classics. Guests can view street rods, muscle cars, vintage cars, and more. The 70,000-square-foot showroom has over 300 classic cars that are up for sale.
Streetside Classics Visit Details:
Hours: Tuesday-Friday 9 am – 6 pm // Saturday 9 am – 5 pm
The perfect place for Mustang lovers! Mustangs grace the museum’s displays, with various modified vehicles displayed throughout the year. The museum also hosts car shows and cruise events like the “Best of the Best Car Show’ and the “Mustang Chili & Cornbread Cook-Off.”
Mustang Owner’s Museum Visit Details:
Hours: Monday – Saturday 10 am – 5 pm // Sunday 12 pm – 5 pm *Closed major holidays
Ticket Cost: Adults $10 // Children 12 & under Free
Dale Earnhardt’s No. 2 car can be seen at Curb Motorsports Museum! The Curb Museum features a collection of NASCAR and Indy cars. The museum also holds cars that wrote pages in the motorsport history book including the car that Dale Earnhardt drove when he won his first Winston Cup Championship.
The NC Transportation Museum, located in the former Southern Railway’s Spencer Shops, is a transportation lover’s dream. The museum features history about all types of transportation: railroads, automotives, aviation, and more. Visitors will see the Barber Junction Depot (a train station built in 1898), the Bob Julian Roundhouse (the largest remaining roundhouse in North America featuring locomotives, passenger railcars, and a replica of the Wright Flyer), and so much more. The museum offers several seasonal and holiday events, including The Polar Express Train Ride.
NC Transportation Museum Details:
Museum Hours:
Tuesday – Saturday 9 am – 5 pm
Sunday 12 pm – 5 pm
Beginning November 11, museum hours change to accommodate The Polar Express Train Rides. Please refer to the museum’s website for details.
Train Hours:
Regular museum train rides do not operate November 7 – December 26 for The Polar Express Train Rides..
Are you looking for some fun family things to do during school break? Here are some ideas of things to do in and around Greenville to keep the kids busy during a day off of school, or to have an amazing Staycation, without ever leaving town. Our list of ideas includes both indoor and outdoor activities your family is sure to enjoy!
Also, don’t miss our Park Guide. It will help you find the perfect park to visit!
Did you know Emerald Village Mine has a cave where you can see minerals glow in the dark? If you’re looking for a bucket list adventure in Western North Carolina, the Black Light Tour at the Emerald Village mine near Little Switzerland, NC is it. Kidding Around’s Kristina took her kids for this unique experience and tells us about it.
I thought Geology was a pretty boring subject until we studied it for a homeschool science unit. I was completely taken with the cool rocks, how the cycle of minerals, magma, and sedimentary rocks form. I loved learning about the chemical makeup of minerals. And when I took my kids to the Geology Museum at Clemson, the fluorescent black light room was a favorite. So when I heard that the Emerald Village Mine near Little Switzerland, North Carolina, was offering a very limited Black Light Mine Tour, I was in. I didn’t hesitate to get tickets when they went on sale back in the early spring and good thing, because they immediately sold out.
So start planning your 2023 adventure right now! As of January 29, 2023, tickets are now on sale for the 2023 season.
How does a day full of totally free things to do in Hendersonville, NC sound? It’s a real possibility. There are so many free, as well as a few very inexpensive things to do in Hendersonville that your whole family will enjoy. Really, these are cool and unique free things to do. Make it one awesome day trip, or make it several fun summer days. Either way, enjoy the gorgeous mountain town of Hendersonville, NC for very little money. Memory-making family adventures don’t have to be expensive!
Have you visited Cashiers, NC? There are so many family adventures waiting in Sapphire Valley. It’s one of our favorite places to visit with awesome places to hike, play, and eat. Go ahead and consult your calendar, because you will want to plan your trip once you read about this North Carolina gem.
The Sapphire Valley. Even the name was beautiful. My family’s first family vacation once we moved to Greenville was to the Sapphire Valley and it was more than I ever hoped it would be. Family vacations aren’t really vacations when you have kids, right? It’s more like parenting, just in a different place and with less sleep. But this trip was so awesome and relaxing despite the lack of our usual sleep routine. It was filled with adventure, waterfalls, good food, stunning beauty, and a feeling that we experienced a little bit of heaven. Since that trip, I’ve gone back many times, whether for another family trip, day trips, and weekend excursions.
The Sapphire Valley and Cashiers, NC is one of those true hidden gems, a small mountain town that consists of a handful of shops and restaurants and leaves the rest up to nature. I’ll tell you all about where to hike, where to stay, where to eat, and seasonal activities so you can hopefully plan your own family’s adventure to this little slice of heaven.
Schoolhouse Falls
Find a place to stay near the Sapphire Valley. This article contains Stay22 affiliate links.
About the Land of Waterfalls
The Sapphire Valley and Cashiers, NC is nicknamed the “Land of Waterfalls” because, well, it is. There are hundreds of waterfalls in the area due to the mountainous terrain and many of them don’t involve long hikes. If you’re into long hikes, don’t worry, there are definitely places to do that here. And if you’re looking for a more family-friendly adventure, there are plenty of places to do that, too.
Cashiers, NC sits 3,487 feet above sea level right near the Eastern Continental Divide. Highway 64 is the main road that goes through it and into Highlands to the West or to Rosman and Brevard to the East. It’s a really small town, only 2,500 people most of the year, which bumps up to 10,000 during the summer months. The town is so cute, too, with a beautiful park, the Village Green, a little hiking store, some clothing shops, a farmers market, and events throughout the year, including a wonderful Christmas parade.
Being so high in the mountains, Cashiers is almost always 10 to 15 degrees cooler than the foothills, which is so refreshing during the summer especially. When you pack, keep that in mind and bring an extra jacket or sweater.
What to do in the Cashiers area
Cashiers is wonderful for all kinds of activities or for doing nothing at all. You can paddleboard, swim, hike, practice photography, eat, ski, snow tube, or just cozy up by a fireplace and read a book. I’ll tell you about most of these activities here.
Hiking in Cashiers
Let’s start with hiking. I’ve done a lot of trails in this area and I’ll give you the rundown of what to expect for each one here.
Whiteside Mountain
This two-mile loop is about 13 minutes from the center of Cashiers and oh my gosh, what a view. Be sure to go clockwise or you’ll be going up a lot of steps. The reason I love this hike is that for the backend of it, you have mountain views the whole way. You are walking along the mountain ridge with steel ropes. Just watch your kids and if you go during the winter months, this could be a very slippery hike (that I wouldn’t recommend). Also note that you have to pay a $3 fee at the parking lot so bring cash or you can use your phone to pay via a QR code.
Whiteside Mountain
Silver Run Falls
This isn’t necessarily a hike. It’s more like a five-minute trek through the woods to a beautiful waterfall with a swimming hole. The water is really cold but feels awesome on a hot day and it’s only five minutes from the center of Cashiers on the left hand side of the road. The pull off only fits about five cars.
Glen Falls
Glen Falls is about 25 minutes south of Cashiers and is a 2.5 mile round trip hike. It’s easy on the way down and there are several overlooks to view the massive waterfall. The hike to the bottom gets you to a small sandy beach, perfect for a picnic and rest since you’ll have to hike all the way back up!
Black Balsam
l had been wanting to get to Black Balsam for years and finally made it. Oh boy, it was worth it. You get 360 degree views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. It’s right near Graveyard Fields (also a great hiking spot with waterfalls) and Devils Courthouse. It’s about an hour from Cashiers and the hike is a moderate one, going uphill in the beginning and then downhill on your way back to the car. It’s only about 1.5 miles total and kid-friendly. We saw so many kids climbing all the rocks and loving it. Get there early during weekends especially as this is a popular hike and it gets crowded. If there isn’t parking there, head up the road a bit to park at the lot at the end of the road and hike to Sam Knob, which is also an amazing 2.5 mile hike.
Black Balsam
High Falls
There are two trailheads to High Falls – one is the short but steep 1.4 mile roundtrip trail from the Pines Recreation Area at Lake Glenville and the other is a steadier and longer at around 4 miles long. High Falls is beautiful either way but be sure to stay off the rocks around the waterfall and check to make sure the dam isn’t being released when you go. It’s amazing to see but you need to make sure you are out of the way downstream since the trickle of the waterfall turns into a powerful churn.
High Falls
Devils Courthouse
Go here in the spring for a possible look at the peregrine falcons that will sometimes nest on the ridge. The overlook is on the Blue Ridge Parkway and the hike is straight up but it’s not too far, just a half mile or so. The top is gorgeous and you can see both sunrises and sunsets from here.
Schoolhouse Falls
Located in the Panthertown Valley, Schoolhouse Falls is a beautiful spot. Park at the Panthertown Trailhead off Cold Mountain Road and take the pink blazed trail to Little Green Trail and you will hear the waterfall. Cross the boardwalk and you are there. It is one of my favorite waterfalls and an easy 2.5 mile roundtrip hike. You’ll gain some elevation on the way back as you hike back up switchbacks to your car but it’s not that difficult. The pool below Schoolhouse Falls is crystal clear and perfect for swimming but I particularly love this waterfall because you can walk behind it! It’s about 45 minutes from Cashiers.
Schoolhouse Falls
Swimming
Next up is swimming near Cashiers. You can swim at Silver Run Falls and Schoolhouse Falls but here are a couple other spots to get wet during the warmer months.
Sliding Rock
This is not the Sliding Rock you may have heard about in Pisgah Forest. Nope, this is the smaller but just as fun and nowhere near as crowded Sliding Rock in Cashiers. It’s less than 10 minutes from downtown Cashiers and down a short trail. There’s a little sandy beach and you can slide down the waterfall all you want or jump into the potholes in the middle of rock formations on the waterfall itself if you are daring. Definitely watch your kids here though.
Sliding Rock in Cashiers
Pines Recreation Area
Not 15 minutes from downtown Cashiers is the beautiful Lake Glenville. You can swim in the lake at the Pines Recreation Area on the north end of the lake. It has a little sandy beach and a fishing pier as well – so pretty! And it’s free. Also, you can access the south trailhead (the shorter but steeper trail) to High Falls.
Boating on Lake Glenville
If you want to get on the water at Lake Glenville, take an a waterfall cruise with Lake Glenville Scenic Waterfalls Cruise with Captain Mark Wise. The two-hour boat tour is great for any age or ability and you’ll learn all about the lake, its history, its diverse ecosystems, and you will get to see waterfalls that are only accessible by boat.
You can also rent kayaks, paddleboards, and pontoon boats from local marinas or drop in your own small water vessels at the Pines Recreation Area.
The Village Green
The Village Green is a huge, 12.5 acre green space right in the heart of Cashiers with art sculptures, a boardwalk path through the woods, and an old school wooden playground that my kids did not want to leave. This is where many events happen in Cashiers as well so if you’re not sure where an event is taking place, it’s probably here. I think the playground is the best part though! It is fenced in and has swings, a tire swing, lots of obstacles, and a tot play space.
Village Play at the Village Green
Fly Fishing
Even though I’ve never done fly fishing (but I really would love to try it), I love watching the fishermen on the water whenever I see them during hikes. They look so relaxed. The Tuckaseegee River flows through a scenic mountain valley and several quaint communities up in Western NC. Jackson County is known as the North Carolina Trout Capital and home of the Western North Carolina Fly Fishing Trail. The river is very accessible for fishing and teeming with brown, rainbow, and brook trout – the river is stocked with almost 93,000 fish annually. Winter is actually prime fly-fishing time and because they are often feeding more during the day and since the state stocks the river in the fall, you have a really good chance of getting bites. You can bring your own equipment or rent from local outfitters.
Seasonal Fun in Cashiers
Cashiers has four defined seasons, all of which have their own beauty, events, and cool things to do. Here are our favorites:
Outhouse Races
Every year, the Sapphire Valley Resort hosts the Outhouse Races where teams decorate an outhouse, put it on skis, and then race it down the mountain. It is exactly how it sounds and it is really fun to watch. The teams are really creative and all use some kind of toilet humor but it’s in such great fun that when people are cheering for their favorite outhouse, you can really get into it. It usually happens in February.
Outhouse Races
Snow Tubing & Skiing
During the winter, you can ski and snow tube at the Sapphire Valley Resort. I’m not a skier but my kids and I have done snow tubing there and it’s a lot of fun! Snow tubing at Sapphire Valley happens at Frozen Falls Tube Park, right behind the community center and next to the bunny slope. Snow tubing tickets are sold at the community center and are $30/person or if you have an amenity card, it is $22.50/person. You can’t buy them in advance so you need to show up, sign a waiver, and purchase your ticket. You can purchase your weekend ticket in person starting at 9 am on Fridays. They do take group reservations of more than 10 people and those must be made a week ahead of time. On busy days, they do sell out so plan accordingly (keep reading for backup plans). Each tubing session lasts for 1.75 hours and start every two hours beginning usually at 10 am, although that can change. Check the schedule before you go.
There are no height restrictions so kids can definitely do snow tubing but they will be in their own tube. My kids (ages 9 and 5) had a blast. There is nothing quite like flying down a mountain on a giant tube! It’s exhilarating and a bit scary at first. The run is about 500 feet with a drop of 60 feet. To get up the mountain, you have to stand on an escalator-type contraption, like the kind you use at the airport that is totally flat and moves. There are staff that help to get you and your tube on it.
The Cashiers Christmas Parade
If you’ve ever wanted to experience a small, mountain town at Christmas, this is your chance. The annual Cashiers Christmas parade happens every December and it includes fire trucks, marching bands, and vintage cars. It will happen on Saturday, December 3, 2022 at 3 pm.
The Shadow of the Bear
This is a tricky one to catch but if you do, prepare to be blown away. It’s only tricky because you need a clear sky and it only happens twice a year for a few weeks – the Shadow of the Bear is literally a shadow that looks like a bear next to Whiteside Mountain that appears in late October/early November and again in early February. You can see it about 30 minutes before sunset off of a pull off on Highway 64 right on the Jackson County border. I’ve done it with my kids and we had such a fun time talking with the people watching it with us because none of us thought that the shadow looked like a bear! You really need to watch your kids though since you’re on the side of the road. Get there early to get parking and bring a jacket since it’s quite chilly up there that time of year.
Courtesy of Stacy Redmon
Where to Eat in Cashiers
Cashiers is small so dining options are limited. My favorite spot to eat is Slabtown Pizza, just a minute or two from the heart of Cashiers. They have pizza, salads, and local craft beer. We ordered a large cheese pizza, small Greek salad, and waffle fries for just myself and my two kids and had leftovers. You order at the counter (or call ahead for pickup) and take a seat and wait for your food.
We also ate one afternoon at Happs right next to Lake Glenville. This place is fantastic because they have a big outdoor play area with cornhole and mini-golf, which is a great distraction for kids while they wait for their meals. They have burgers, sandwiches, and salads plus a huge bar, big TVs, both indoor and outdoor seating, and a big fireplace.
Happs Barn & Grill
For coffee and pastries, I recommend Buck’s Coffee Shop at the main intersection of 64 & 107. The place is very laid back with bagels, pastries, breakfast sandwiches, and a latte that I’m still thinking about days later. If you’re working while up in Cashiers, this is a great spot to bring your laptop and relax while making your deadlines. They’ve got wifi and lots of comfortable seating.
Where to Stay in Cashiers
Most of the times I’ve visited Cashiers or Lake Glenville, I’ve stayed in an AirBnB or VRBO at the Sapphire Valley Resort. Staying at the resort is fantastic because it has an indoor pool and sauna, hot tubs, mini-golf, a gym, arcade room, and outdoor pool. You have to purchase an amenity card (it was around $3/day in 2021) but it was totally worth it for the downtime moments between all our adventures to swim in the pools and relax in the sauna. This is especially worth it if you’re visiting during the colder months because you can use the indoor pool and sauna no matter the weather! Also, if you’re staying at the resort, you can rent kayaks or paddleboards at Lake Fairfield. That was the very first time I tried paddleboarding, which kindled my love for it!
The AirBnB I stayed at in Lake Glenville though was just amazing. I really didn’t want to leave. While we didn’t have lake access, we did have a breathtaking view of the lake, which was one hundred percent worth it. Definitely check AirBnB or VRBO for listings that fit your family’s needs and budget.
View of Lake Glenville from our AirBnB
The other place I’ve stayed while visiting Cashiers is the Hampton Inn & Suites directly across the street from the resort. This hotel was awesome for several reasons:
It has an indoor pool and hot tub, which we made use of when our initial tubing time was unavailable
It has a free, hot breakfast in the morning included which has everything from waffles to eggs to smoothies to oatmeal and bagels
The location is just perfect as it took us no time to get to the resort
It is super clean and the staff are friendly and helpful
It has free coffee, tea, and hot chocolate all day long
Great option for budget-conscious families (we saw so many families there!)
The wintertime is this area’s slower season so prices are probably as cheap as they will be all year. This season is often called the “Secret Season” because of the lower cost of trips there.
For a more luxurious and high end vacation experience in Cashiers, take a look at the High Hampton Resort. It has a gold course, spa, and beautiful rooms.
Where to Shop in Cashiers
We loved shopping at the Cashiers Farmers Market, a standalone market with everything from bacon to local honey to fruit and produce to pottery and seasonal items. They also have wine, chocolate, and you can order lunch and eat at the picnic tables next door.
Cashier’s Farmers Market
We also really loved the Cashiers Candy Shoppe, which has an eclectic array of clothing, home goods, and an entire room dedicated to candy and chocolate. It was amazing. But the best part for my kids was petting the two Golden Retrievers that greeted guests. They were adorable and one rolled over immediately for tummy pets when one of my daughters was giving her some love. So, so cute.
My Last Thoughts on Cashiers
Know this: if you visit Cashiers, you may leave a little piece of your heart there. If you like hiking, swimming, boating, sliding down waterfalls, and spending time with family, the Sapphire Valley may swoop in and whisk you away. I have fallen so hard for this tiny slice of heaven and go as often as I can. I have made some wonderful memories with my family here and truly hope I get to make many more.
And here’s another confession – I grew up close to the beach in New Jersey and I’ve come to the conclusion that I’m more of a mountain-lover than beach-lover. It seems like a betrayal of my roots. But it’s not. I’m setting down new roots for my own little kids to make their own memories and hopefully fall in love with the outdoors like I did.
For more information on other things to do in Jackson County, the county’s tourism website is super helpful.
Have you heard of French Broad Chocolate? The Asheville, NC-based chocolate company gives tours of their factory complete with a chocolate tasting. And while you won’t see any Oompa Loompa’s on this tour, or float down a river of chocolate on your way to rooms in the factory, you will learn where cacao beans come from and see how French Broad Chocolate turns the beans into their delicious bars, bonbons, and sipping chocolate. We attended the Bean-to-Bar tour and we have everything you’ll want to know about this educational and delicious family activity.
Thanks to French Broad Chocolate Factory and Cafe for providing complimentary tickets so we could bring this review to our readers.
Looking for some great hikes for toddlers and young children near Greenville, SC? Hiking with young children is possible! We put together this great list of the best hikes in and around Greenville, SC for toddlers. Peruse the list to find trails that are perfect for little ones in the Upstate.
Have you visited Newberry, SC? Recently named one of the “Most Charming Small Towns in America” by Travel Channel, this historic town offers museums, art, hiking, and more! Newberry has continuously been selected as one of the South Carolina 7 Expedition stopping points because of its natural splendor and gorgeous Japanese garden. As a KAG SC7 correspondent, Liene Kukainis joined the team on the trail to see what all the press is about!
At the very heart of downtown is the Newberry Opera House. Completed in 1882, the Opera House was designed as a place of entertainment for locals and as a seat of government for the city – including a fire engine room and three jail cells! Silent pictures were slowly replaced by movies, and in the 1920s it was renovated as a movie theater. But in 1952 the movie theater closed, and there was even talk of tearing it down; luckily the Newberry Historical Society stepped in, and in 1970 the building was placed on the National Register of Historic Places. In 1998, the Newberry Opera House was reopened for performances after extensive renovations.
However, in 2010 downtown Newberry was struggling in the wake of the large national recession. When the City took steps to begin a revitalization of downtown, to make it more pedestrian-friendly and welcoming to visitors, the Opera remained at the center of it all. The location between the Greenville-Spartanburg corridor and Columbia makes it one of only a few venues in the Midlands/Piedmont, and musicians coming from Charleston often take the opportunity to get in one more show before heading north/west. Newberry has really capitalized on the unique location in regards to the arts, and today is a vibrant, old-fashioned town center that is a centerpiece for the community.
The Travel Channel praised Newberry as “a college town with lots of extras: lovely architecture, a historic Opera House, a winery where rocking chairs beckon from a big porch, and world-class dining and drinking experiences. Nicknamed the ‘City of Friendly Folks,’ it’s been called one of the 100 best small towns in America.” The accolades are well-deserved, and Newberry has something for everyone… even for a cross-state expedition!
The Palmetto Trail in Newberry, SC
The South Carolina 7 Expedition has been using the Palmetto Trail as a backbone to its explorations, and on a sunny summer day, I found myself “hiking” the Newberry Passage along with Lieutenant Governor of South Carolina, Pamela Evette, and the Mayor of Newberry, Foster Senn. Our urban hike took us into the very heart of Newberry, passing Newberry College, established in 1856, past several ornate homes built 1880-1915, then right up to Main Street. We passed the old Coca-Cola bottling plant (turned indoor shooting range, turned law office), and City Hall.
The Newberry Passage is a 10-mile section of trail, with approximately 4 of those miles within city limits. Be warned that there is little shade, and most of the section is along busy roads. However, I found the 3-4 miles within city limits to be interesting, with the historic houses, an old cemetery, and of course the renovated Main Street with shops, cafes, bars, and ice cream parlors.
Another Newberry treasure is a second passage of the Palmetto Trail, Lynch’s Woods. In direct contrast with the urban Newberry Passage, Lynch’s Woods is a relaxing 5-mile loop hike through a beautiful park full of old-growth trees. Lynch’s Woods Park was created in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), and today the 276-acre park features trails for mountain bikers, hikers, and equestrians.
Things to Do with families in Newberry, SC
Newberry Museum
We stopped in the Old Court House, completed in 1853, to get a map and a few brochures – the historic building now houses the chamber of commerce. There, they directed us to the Newberry Museum, housed in the 1911 Federal Building and United States Post Office. The museum offers permanent and rotating exhibitions about the history of the county as well as surrounding municipalities. The Newberry Museum regularly updates its calendar of exhibits and events, so there is always something new to explore.
Newberry Arts Center
Only a few blocks from the museum is the Newberry Arts Center. Through the windows, we could see children busy creating as part of the NAC Youth Summer Camp, and the Art Center store was full of hand-made pieces by local artisans. The Arts Center also sponsors Rec Mobile Friday Art in the Park, a free, traveling activity with a local artist occurring 6 weeks of summer. Art programs are offered year-round; more information can be found on the Newberry Arts Center website.
Japanese Garden in Newberry, SC
I was pleasantly surprised that Newberry has a Japanese Garden, tucked away and just waiting to be discovered. Over the last few years, the garden has undergone renovations to help revitalize the garden. The Wells Japanese Garden is a Newberry landmark that was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1980. With a temple, tea garden, Moon Bridge, and Torri Gate situated amongst a natural landscape, there is a lot of culture and beauty to explore. For more on the garden, please visit the Newberry website.
Events in Newberry, SC
Newberry hosts many events throughout the year, including Oktoberfest on the first Saturday in October, a pumpkin painting party in late October, and Main Street Lights in late November; all in the charming setting of Memorial Park, opposite the Opera House. Originally the parking area for horses and carriages, on our recent visit it was transformed into an exuberant welcome to the SC7 expedition, tables set up in the shade of the enormous trees where we ate our fill of barbecue and ice cream while listening to a DJ play music.
Just around the corner, the Newberry Police Department had set up a bike rodeo, for young cyclists to test their knowledge of road signs and their skill at navigating an obstacle course. To top it off, the Opera House hosted the green carpet premiere of the SC7 documentary “Higher Ground,” and we were able to see the ornate interior of the grand building. Yes, Newberry can also throw a party!
Newberry Community Hall (left), Newberry Opera House (right)
Shopping and Restaurants in Newberry, SC
On our wanders through downtown we saw several intriguing antique stores, including one advertising “World Famous, as seen on American Pickers.” An antique bookstore, art galleries, clothing and jewelry stores round out the shopping experience – we could easily have spent a morning wandering the shops. Don’t forget the Art Center store when looking for that souvenir!
We had lunch and ice cream at family-friendly Laila’s Place, and cultural icon “Zesto’s” was on the Newberry Passage on the way into town. Several fine dining establishments catering to the Opera House crowd, and the Figaro Market was stocked full of local products and tantalizing eats.
Places to Stay in Newberry, SC
Lodging options include several of the big chains, although there are a few bed & breakfast type options in the vicinity.
Just to the south is the well-known Peak to Prosperity Passage of the Palmetto Trail, great for biking and hiking, and known for the converted rail bridge that now allows pedestrians to traverse the Broad River.
Lake Murray
Less than an hour away is Lake Murray, with all sorts of recreational opportunities. This time of year we go to see the purple martins on their way south; the thousands of birds all coming in to roost on Bomb Island at dusk is a sight to see!
Ending the Day in Newberry, SC
That evening the lights were dimmed in the Grand Opera House, and after Governor Henry McMaster gave a welcome speech, the lights were dimmed to the premiere of “Higher Ground.” We sank into our plush, red velvet chairs, and took it all in the history, the hiking, the small-town, the culture…. Yes, indeed, Newberry is one of the best small towns in America!
Are you ready to spend the day in historic Newberry, SC?
Have you checked out Blackstock Battlefield in Enoree, SC? One of the benefits of living in South Carolina is the chance to bring history to life by visiting the hundreds of historical sites across the state. We’ve visited Musgrove Mill State Historic Site many times, as it covers all the bases for my kids: Revolutionary War battlefield to explore, Tyger River trail to hike, and Horseshoe Falls to cool down in. But did you know Musgrove Mill manages a second battlefield?
Located only 7 miles to the north, Blackstock Battlefield preserves the site of the Revolutionary War battle where the infamous British Lt. Col. Tarleton was foiled in his attempt to defeat Patriot Brig. Gen. Sumter in 1780. We recently received a tour of Blackstock Battlefield during the South Carolina 7 Wonders Expedition, and wanted to share with you more on this little-known historic site just 40 minutes from Spartanburg!
Revolutionary War Action
Some months after the Battle at Kings Mountain, Sumter had gathered troops in preparation to attack the British post at Ninety Six. The British summoned Tarleton from his pursuit of the “Swamp Fox” Marion down near the coast to intercept Sumter, and the British Lt. Col. managed to secretly cross the Broad with his feared Dragoons before a defector informed Sumter he was being pursued. Sumter chose to make a stand at Blackstock’s Plantation on the Tyger river as Tarleton raced towards his position with his cavalry and mounted infantry.
Historical Map of Blackstock Battlefiled
When the British caught up with Sumter, they were at a disadvantage; they had gotten ahead of their infantry and artillery in hopes of catching Sumter unawares, and instead were themselves caught in the open under heavy fire from the high ground. After suffering heavy losses and regrouping, Tarleton retreated to join his infantry and artillery – but without half of his men, who had been lost in the battle. Sumter was badly wounded, and was evacuated overnight. Tarleton pursued the Patriots for two more days, and although he claimed a victory for dispersing Sumter’s militia, it was a costly defeat for the British in that they lost numerous officers, horses, and equipment. The Battle of Blackstock’s was a precursor to the action later at Cowpens.
On Your Visit to Blackstock Battlefield
Directions: From Exit 44 on I-26, go east on SC Hwy 49 about 5.5 miles to the Blackstock’s Historical Marker. Turn left onto Blackstock’s Road, then go about 1.2 miles and turn right onto Monument Road. Continue until the pavement ends, and park in the parking area before the gate.
For the best vantage point of the battlefield, continue up the gravel road to Monument Hill. Standing with your back to the monument, Blackstock’s Ford of the Tyger River is down the hill to the right. The open meadow was much larger when the Blackstock family lived there, and the British would have come charging up the hill to meet the forces lined up along the top. On the far end of the meadow was where the house and barn were located.
Take a Hike
The parking area is also the trailhead for the Blackstock Battlefield Passage of the Palmetto Trail. This 1.6-mile loop descends to the Tyger River, and then follows the river for about ½ mile before climbing up to the battlefield. Skirting the edge of the open field, the trail re-enters the woods and returns to the parking area.
The SC Park Service asks that you remain on signed roads & trails while visiting the battlefield. Going off-trail can be hazardous, especially to children, as there are many deep holes from when the area was logged and the stumps were buried. On our visit, we also saw fire ants, bees, and snakes. Highlights of our hike included seeing an eastern box turtle, taking in the view from Monument Hill, and experiencing another piece of the Revolutionary War puzzle that we have been piecing together during our southeastern travels.
Things to do near Blackstock Battlefield
After hiking the Palmetto Trail Passage, my kiddos were more than happy to make the 15-minute drive to Horseshoe Falls, a small waterfall on a tributary of the Enoree River that is located in Musgrove Mill State Historic Site off Battlefield Trail. Just across the Enoree is the main portion of the State Park, including a Visitor Center and British Camp Trail. A little farther to the east is another State Historic Site, Rose Hill.
Just to the southeast is the Enoree Ranger District of Sumter National Forest. In addition to camping, cycling, OHV, fishing, horseback riding, and hunting, the Enoree is home to the Enoree Passage of the Palmetto Trail, with 36 continuous miles of trail linking Newberry, Laurens, and Union counties.
If you are headed north, towards Spartanburg, on your way home, you will pass near Glenn Springs, a small community with a lot of history, as well as by Croft State Park.
Musgrove Mill State Historic Site Admission to Musgrove Mill is $3 adults; $1.50 SC seniors; $1 children age 6-15; age 5 & younger free. Musgrove Mill is open 9 am to 6 pm daily.
Have you heard about Toccoa Falls? This massive waterfall is located on a beautiful college campus in North Georgia. You can view it with hardly any hiking at all. It’s an easy day trip from several points in the Carolinas and Georgia. Plus, there are a lot of beautiful things to see in the area as well, so you can really make a visit to Toccoa Falls a full-day trip adventure.
Day Trip Travel Times: From the Upstate, SC, Toccoa Falls is only about an hour and 20 minutes away. From Columbia, SC, Toccoa Falls is 2 and a half hours.
