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Posts Tagged ‘Fountain Inn SC’

Ride in a Horse Drawn Carriage during Christmas in Fountain Inn, SC

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Fountain Inn marks the Christmas season with carriage rides, hot chocolate, and lots of holiday spirit. Here’s what happens in Fountain Inn and why you should make a trip there this holiday season. 

Fountain Inn is such a cute little town, with small businesses lining Main Street, a farmers market during the summer, a splash pad, and family-friendly events all year. But Christmas is something special, and a bit enchanting. The entire Christmas experience in Fountain Inn runs from December 7th – 16th, 2023 from 5-9:30 pm. They have special events throughout this fun holiday season so read on. Everything happens at Commerce Park in downtown Fountain Inn.

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Cedar Falls Park in Fountain Inn is the Perfect Park to Visit on a Beautiful Fall Day

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Looking for a beautiful park to enjoy on a crisp fall day? Cedar Falls Park in Fountain Inn offers a fun playground, a paved walking path, a historical site, and a waterfall. We’ll give you all the information you need to plan a day at this park with your family.

Parks and playgrounds near Greenville, South Carolina

Looking for more parks? We’ve got your Ultimate Guide to Parks and Playgrounds Near Greenville, SC.

Want more ideas on parks to explore, places to hike and more outdoor fun? Check out our Things to do Outside page.

I was first introduced to Cedar Falls Park by Deirdre at JDaniel4’s Mom. Deirdre and I are friends, and she is also a local blogger. She blogged about her visit to Cedar Falls Park during the 2013 Greenville Park Hop. I could tell that she and J Daniel had a lot of fun during their visit, and I decided that my family would need to check the park out ourselves.

After our visit my husband and I agreed that Cedar Falls Park is a local secret. The playground is imaginative and great for getting kids active. But the best part about Cedar Falls Park is the paved path (yay for strollers!) that leads to a beautiful wooded area where the Reedy River rolls over waterfalls and wildlife abounds.

waterfall at Cedar Falls Park

The history of Cedar Falls Park

Cedar Falls Park doubles as not just a recreational spot but also as an historic area. The site originated as a Cherokee hunting ground and transportation hub across the Reedy River. Later in the 1800s, a dam was built to power several mills. In the 1900s, a larger dam generated electric power for the Fork Shoals Mill. A more complete history of the Cedar Falls is located on a park sign on the trail.

On the trail, you will also find a sign explaining the Cherokee history of the site as well as a sign about the environmental aspects of the Reedy River which includes a chart of wildlife in the area.

Basic Information about Cedar Falls Park

The 90+ acres at Cedar Falls Park contains so much:

  • a paved walking trail to the falls
  • a sand volleyball court
  • picnic shelter
  • restrooms
  • playground
  • parking at both the playground and a small amount of parking beside the falls
  • large grassy areas for play
Cedar Falls Park playground

The Playground at Cedar Falls Park

My kids really enjoyed the play area located at the first entrance of the park. The playground based on fairy tales, included a bean stalk ladder, rock wall, small cave window, and large fun climbing structures. As a mom of a very brave toddler, I was glad to see that even the larger playground wasn’t terribly high (not that I would have wanted her to fall off it).

The playground designed for smaller kids was a little larger than other local options. I liked how it was still challenging and fun for even my 5 year-old (though he was fascinated with the larger structure on the other side).

The playground did not have a fence and both levels of playgrounds were connected. Since the playground was beside the parking lot, you did have to watch small kids closely to make sure they didn’t wander off.

The Falls at Cedar Falls Park

The walk to Cedar Falls was not difficult. Our kids (2 and 5) complained a little and we ended up toting the toddler, but we made it there and back without too much trouble. We did not bring a stroller, but the path was completely paved down to the falls.

We noticed a lot of people playing in the water, but we did not due to it being part of the Reedy River. Parents will want to know that this portion of the Reedy River has the same toxic level warning signs as you will find near the Reedy River at Falls Park.

I wore flip flops and the kids wore shorts on our visit. I would recommend tennis shoes and long pants as you will want to explore off of the path once you reach the falls. Don’t forget plenty of water and snacks too. Basically dress and pack for a hike.

The area was beautiful and we noticed lots of interesting insects and birds.

Even though the park was a little outside the normal area we travel for park visits, I’m sure that we will visit again. The kids really enjoyed their time playing at the park, and word is that Cedar Falls Park is a must-see spot in Greenville in the fall.

Visit Cedar Falls Park with your family

Cedar Falls Park is open daily from 9 am – dusk.

201 Cedar Falls Road, Fountain Inn

Visit the Cedar Falls Park website for more information.

What is your family’s favorite thing about Cedar Falls Park?

Village Play in Fountain Inn is a Parent’s Dream for Kids Playtime

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If you are looking for an indoor play space for your little kids to burn off some energy, then Village Play in Fountain Inn may be it. Allison Manchester opened Village Play to fill the need for a play space for young children. Plus, it doubles as a cafe and meeting space for moms and caregivers to enjoy each other and form lasting friendships!

Village Play in Fountain Inn, South Carolina

Allison and her husband, Chris, moved to Greenville in 2016 from Massachusetts. She is a full-time accountant and he’s a former investment banker-turned-entrepreneur in the postal business. They have two little kids and understand the importance of not only safe spaces for kids to have fun but also a space that gives parents some time to recharge. Having seen similar concepts in big cities, Allison started looking for a place like Village Play in Greenville but didn’t find exactly what she was looking for. 

So as women are known to do, she decided to do it herself. 

Idea Turned into Reality

Allison had definitive ideas on what she wanted Village Play to look like. 

Lounge area of Village Play in Fountain Inn, South Carolina

“I want it to be a great community feel where primarily moms – but any caregiver – connect and where it’s a relaxing place for moms and kids,” Allison said. “This will have a little more of an intimate feel. Everywhere you sit in the cafe, you’ll have a view of the play area. You can have coffee, catch up with a friend, while you watch your kids.”

Village Play: A Place for Little Kids

Village Play is specifically geared towards kids ages 0-6 years old. There are lots of imaginative play aspects for those ages. 

Allison wanted to create a safe place for the smaller kids to have fun without fear of older kids accidentally trampling on them. It also gives parents peace of mind that they can let their kids enjoy the space while they catch up with a friend in the cafe. 

Village Play is not a drop-off daycare. Parents must be present with their children at all times.

Birthday Parties & Private Events + Cafe

What’s a new play space without the ability to host parties? Village Play has options for birthday parties and private events. Birthday parties start at $287 for the basic package and go up to $547 for the total birthday bash.

A full espresso bar is available as well as prepackaged snacks. They don’t have a full kitchen but really, coffee and play sounds just perfect. 

Before You Go Play

Socks are required so be sure to bring your own. Village Play will have them for sale if you forget to bring them.

Also, to save time, sign the waiver online before you go.

Regular open play is available for children up to six years old. Older siblings are able to participate as well, they will just need to purchase a play pass.

“I want people to know that this is a space designed for the kids but also for the adults in mind so that everyone can enjoy themselves in a relaxing environment,” said Allison “Think of it as a place to catch up with your friends in a more intimate setting while your children play and learn together.”

Cafe space at Village Play Cafe
Inside Village Play, courtesy of Village Play

Hours, Rates, & Play Passes

Village Play is open Monday – Friday from 9 am – 3 pm and on Saturdays from 9 am to Noon for open play.

The drop in rate of play is $10/child and you can purchase an unlimited play membership for one child for $37/month or multiple children for $57/month.

Village Play also offers a Homeschool Membership for play Monday-Friday between the hours of Noon-3 pm for $25/month per family. The Homeschool hours are most beneficial for children 8 years of age and younger.

A 10-pack of play passes is available for $85, which is valid for children in the same family and expires a year from the date of purchase.

If you’d like to reserve a play spot ahead of time, you can do that here.

Village Play
4 Howard Creek Drive, Fountain Inn
864.409.2320
Village Play Facebook


Fountain Inn, SC

Spend a wonderful day in Fountain Inn with our handy guide, complete with places to play, things to do, and where to eat!


Cool Off at the Free Splash Pad in Fountain Inn, SC!

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Fountain Inn, a cute little town just 25 minutes south of Greenville, has an awesome, free splash pad. The town is small but growing and building up their Main Street so the splash pad is accompanied by shops, restaurants, and farmers market along Main Street in Fountain Inn, SC. Here’s everything you need to know about the splash pad, plus what to do when you’re in the area.

Fountain Inn Splash Pad
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Experience the Culture of Italy at Gio’s Pastry Shop, Caffee, and Italian Grocery in Fountain Inn, SC

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Satisfy your craving for Italian cuisine at Gio’s Pastry Shop, Caffee, and Italian Market in Fountain Inn, SC! Gio’s offers a large selection of homemade and imported Italian and Italian American goods, including homemade pastries, cookies, and cakes. Their shop also sells a multitude of Italian groceries, sandwiches, salads, and even serves fresh coffee. There is no better way to experience a culture than through food, and Gio’s will bring a little slice of Italy into your life.

Homemade Baked Goods, The Italian Way

Gio’s has one of the most diverse selections of Italian baked goods in Greenville, thanks to owner Maria Natale. Her pursuit to fulfill her customer’s cravings for Italian desserts ignited Gio’s popularity in the Fountain Inn community.  From homemade cannolis, mini cannoli cheesecakes, Italian rainbow cookies, and Sfogliatelle (Clamshell) pastries, no wonder Gio’s has quickly become a go-to bakery. They even have gluten-free options!

Gio’s also produces homemade bread that has a delicious crunchy outside encasing a soft and fluffy inside. Kidding Around’s Maria says that Gio’s bread is the closest to NYC’s Italian bread that she has found in the south. Walking into Gio’s will transport your senses straight to an Italian kitchen. Paired with the vibe of Gio’s, you will feel like you coming home to your Nonna baking in the kitchen (even if you’re not Italian).

Gio's fountain inn - Italian pastry
Sfgliatelle at Gio’s Pastry Shop

Groceries and Goods Found at Gio’s

Along with Gio’s staple pastries and baked goods, they sell a wide selection of Italian groceries and premade meals. Many of their grocery items are imported directly from Italy, so nothing gets more authentic than that. You can also purchase from a selection of premade foods, such as Pasta Fagioli and Italian Wedding Soup. They even have several varieties of fresh-made pasta and sauce to purchase for your next Italian-inspired meal. Don’t forget to grab some delicious mozzarella to top it off.

So, grab the family and go explore the culture of Italy through the pastries and meals you can find at Gio’s, without ever having to leave Greenville!

Gluten-Free options at Gio’s Pastry Shop

You can also pick up some awesome coloring books from local artist Brandi Grover at Gio’s. Try a sample of her coloring pages featuring KAG mascot, Golly.

Gio’s Pastry Shop
218 South Main Street – Unit A, Fountain Inn | 864.724.2058

Hours of Operation
Wednesday 8:30 am – 6:00 pm
Thursday 8:30 am – 6:00 pm
Friday 8:30 am – 6:00 pm
Saturday 8:30 am – 5:00 pm
Closed Sunday-Tuesday

Festival alert: Don’t miss the Italian American Heritage Festival in Fountain Inn, SC!

The 2nd Annual Fountain Inn Italian-American Heritage Festival is Happening in April 2023

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The second annual Fountain Inn Italian Festival is on Saturday, April 29th, 2023. Are you thinking about attending the festival? We have the schedule, the vendors, and all the details you need to plan your day to have an incredible time at the Italian-American Heritage Festival.

Fountain Inn Italian Festival

About the Italian-American Heritage Festival in Fountain Inn, SC

The quick facts:

  • Saturday, April 29th, 2023 from 12 pm to 6 pm
  • Main Street, Fountain Inn
  • Free Admission

This Italian-American Heritage Festival was a huge success for its inaugural year in 2022. This year’s festival seems to be giving the same amount of excitement, if not, more. There will be music, food, drinks, shopping from vendors, and activities. Last year there was a 50/50 raffle, corn hole tournament, and even a spaghetti eating contest! We’re so excited to see what 2023 holds—the committee says it will be bigger and better!

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Bobby’s BBQ in Fountain Inn, SC Will Have You Begging For Seconds

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Wondering what Bobby’s BBQ & Seasoning has to offer? Delicious barbecue in Fountain Inn, SC, that’s what! Learn all about Bobby’s BBQ & Seasoning right here, including some menu highlights you don’t want to miss. Seriously, we can practically taste this article.

But, wait.

You’ll also find Bobby’s BBQ on our list of Greenville’s Top 5 BBQ Places. So if you love BBQ, you’ll want to check that out, too!

Bobby's BBQ in Fountain Inn, SC

When visiting Bobby’s BBQ, it doesn’t matter if it’s your first time or your 20th; you will be treated like family. Don’t believe me? How many other restaurants keep spare sets of infant clothes and diapers in both the men’s and women’s restrooms when a little guest has a blow-out?

Sarah Nelson knew if she ever owned a restaurant, she would help parents with things like that so they could enjoy a meal, even under the most stressful of situations. If you have ever been caught in a situation like that, you can appreciate the gesture. It’s just one way the Nelsons welcome diners, and why they’ve created a loyal fan base.

Photo Credit: Bobby’s BBQ

Bobby’s BBQ & Seasoning

Owners – Tay & Sarah Nelson

Do you have a kid’s menu?  Yes

What are your contactless delivery options?  Curbside Pick-up

Do you offer outdoor dining? Yes – Open Air, Covered, Heated

What makes your spot unique?
We are a family-owned restaurant serving Texas-style barbecue. While most Carolina barbecue restaurants are known for their pulled pork and chicken, we specialize in brisket, housemade sausage, and smoked turkey breast. We love everyone who comes to the restaurant and try to make them feel at home. Everything is made from scratch, and all of our sides are adaptations of family recipes.

What dish is the most popular? Brisket

See Bobby’s BBQ Menu right here.

What dish are you the proudest of?  Brisket, Housemade Sausage, Turkey, Cheesy Potato Casserole, Banana Pudding

It’s my first time at your restaurant, what do you suggest we order?  Brisket or Turkey 

Gifting Options – Gift cards

Learn About Other Local Restaurants We’ve Featured on Kidding Around

What Locals Have To Say About Bobby’s BBQ & Seasoning

We Love Bobby’s!!!!

Erica K.M.

The BEST local bbq is Bobby’s BBQ in Fountain Inn. Great sides, smoked turkey breast, brisket, sausages, even jackfruit for vegetarians. Community outreach by the owner. Never a bad bite!

Amy

Bobby’s BBQ. The brisket is insane! The turkey is so tender. The sides are ridiculous.

Elyse

Bobby’s BBQ & Seasoning
1301 N. Main Street, Fountain Inn, SC 29644 | 864.409.2379

Have you enjoyed a meal at Bobby’s BBQ & Seasoning? We want to know what you order when you go!

Complete Restaurant Guide to Greenville, SC

Find your new favorite restaurant.

The Complete Guide to Greenville’s Restaurants.

Christmas and New Year’s Magic at Hidden Pastures Unicorn Farm

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If you’ve been a Kidding Around reader for any length of time, you’ve likely seen some of our coverage of Hidden Pastures Unicorn Farm in Fountain Inn, SC. While the farm is open year-round with varying hours, you don’t want to miss Yuletide Unicorn & Night Lights Festival. With Christmas celebrations leading up to New Year’s Day, you and your child are bound to make memories together during a visit to Hidden Pastures. 

Be sure to read our entire review of Hidden Pastures Unicorn Farm.

Yuletide Unicorn & Night Lights Festival

After all of the rain we’ve had lately, we were ready to get out of the house at the first break of sunshine (despite the bite of cold air). We bundled up ourselves and our daughter and made our way to Hidden Pastures Unicorn Farm. Owner Kate greeted us with smiles and gave us a rundown of the history and what to expect once we walked through the entrance barn doors. As soon as we were done talking with Kate, our daughter took off. 

Hidden Pastures Unicorn Farm at Christmas
Unicorn Farm Entrance & Gift Shop

My favorite part of the entire visit? The free-range animals that roam the grounds. Everywhere you turn, there’s either a friendly goat, eager chicken, adorable calf, or magical unicorn ready to greet you (and likely waiting for some snacks to gently eat out of your hand).

Christmas time at Hidden Pastures Unicorn Farm in Fountain Inn SC
Feeding the Goats at the Unicorn Farm

There are plenty of outdoor toys for your child to enjoy. There are see-saws, rocking horses, bouncing horses, a tiny toddler playhouse, slides, swings, and a giant inflatable bounce house with a slide. 

But the best part about this time of year? The Christmas decorations, Santa, hot chocolate, live music (select days only), Christmas lights, and a night-time Christmas moving showing with a firepit. If our daughter was a bit older, we definitely would have visited at night. Since she’s a bit young, we made a daytime visit, but look forward to visiting in the evening when she’s a little older.

And if you need something to do on New Year’s Eve, the Unicorn Farm will be showing a special movie, will keep their Christmas lights on, and have a food truck available). (CANCELED Due to rain)

Animals at Hidden Pastures Unicorn Farm
Yuletide Unicorn & Night Lights Festival

Hidden Pastures Unicorn Farm Yuletide Unicorn & Night Lights Festival with Santa Details

Unicorn Farm Location:
245 Little Virginia Road
Fountain Inn

Visit Hidden Pastures Unicorn Farm

Hours of Operation:

  • December 19-23, 2022: open every day 11 am – 9 pm (no Santa visits)
  • December 24-25, 2022: Closed
  • December 26-30, 2022: open every day 11 am – 9 pm (no Santa visits)
  • CLOSED 12/31 Due to RAIN
  • January 1, 2023: Open 11 am – 9 pm (no Santa visits)

Pricing:

  • Adults 18+ – $12
  • Kids 3-17 years old – $14
  • Babies 2 & under – Free
  • *Cash and cards accepted

Planning your trip to Hidden Pastures? Tell us about it!

Hidden Pastures Unicorn Farm
Unicorns at Hidden Pastures Unicorn Farm in Fountain Inn, SC

This Local Rabbit Park Has Over a 100 Rabbits: Garden Gate Rabbit Park

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Are you looking for a unique, family-friendly place to visit with your kids near Greenville? Garden Gate Rabbit Park is just the place. Read below to find out all about Anna’s visit to this special local rabbit park that welcomes visitors.

Spring is usually filled with images of rabbits, painted eggs, and baskets. Build springtime memories with a visit to South Carolina’s only Rabbit Park!

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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 for the daughter of Nikki Hulton. Find out about this little farm and the unique unicorn experiences they offer, along with pony rides, farm animals, play space, parties and more!

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.

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

Admission:
$8 per person (age 3+)
$5 pony rides (age 2+)
$6 Hayrides (when offered)