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Posts Tagged ‘Spartanburg SC’

Where to Play Laser Tag in the Upstate

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Wanting to get competitive and play some laser tag? Greenville, SC has a couple of awesome laser tag arenas!

Spend an hour or two on a random weekend or book a laser tag experience for an exhilarating birthday party. Most of the following establishments are priced reasonably and include everything you need for an unforgettable time playing laser tag in the Upstate of South Carolina.

Where to play laser tag near Greenville, South Carolina

Laser tag at Main Event
Laser tag room at Main Event
Laser tag at Main Event

Where to Play Laser Tag Near Greenville, SC, and Spartanburg, SC

Main Event

225 Entertainment Boulevard, Greenville
If you haven’t been to Main Event yet, then we think you may want to visit this entertainment facility in the near future with your kids. You can enjoy much more than just laser tag at Main Event in Greenville, SC. They also have a bowling alley, arcade games, bar area, billiards, and dining.

Frankie’s Fun Park

45 Park Woodruff Drive, Greenville
Frankie’s Fun Park has laser tag for 6-year-olds and up. For only $9 per player, you can enjoy an intense battle of laser tag, surrounded by fog, in a two-level arena. Frankie’s also has arcade games, bumper boats, mini golf, and more for you to enjoy for an entire afternoon.

Spare Time

822 Congaree Road, Greenville
Spare Time has laser tag arenas where fog and music pump through the room while you enjoy a 15-minute adventure. During your visit, you can also enjoy their bowling alley, arcade games, pool tables, escape rooms, dining areas, and more.

Sweet Retreat

510 State Road S-37-341, Walhalla
Sweet Retreat is a family-friendly establishment in Walhalla. Their multi-level laser tag arena is over 3600 square feet of entertainment and exhilaration. Sweet Retreat also has an arcade, go-karts, mini golf, and more.

The Big E Gaffney

1100 Factory Shops Boulevard, Gaffney
This guide on where to play laser tag in the Upstate wouldn’t be complete without a mention of The Big E in Gaffney, a fully equipped entertainment facility for the whole family. Their laser tag features innovative technology in a multi-level arena with black lights, fog, and music. Each game lasts 12 minutes. You’ll also find arcade games, bowling, mini golf, and more at The Big E Gaffney.

Mobile Laser Tag in the Upstate

SC Outdoor Laser Tag

If you’re looking for a mobile laser tag experience that will come to you, look no further than SC Outdoor Laser Tag. They will provide all equipment and staff for your private event. They’ll set everything up and run all of the laser tag-related activities.

Upstate Laser Tag

Upstate Laser Tag is another option for your mobile laser tag needs. They’ll bring the equipment and convert your backyard, front yard, or local park into an energizing laser tag experience. 

Which laser tag arena is your favorite? Are we missing any?


Main Event, Greenville, SC

Learn why Main Event is the perfect place for fun in our KA review!


Things to Do in Greenville, SC.

This is just one of the amazing things to do in Greenville. Get the full guide!

Things to Do in Greenville, SC


Enjoy FREE Live Music at Spartanburg Library’s Music Sandwiched In

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Do you wish there were an affordable way to expose your preschool children to all different types of live music without risking having to listen from the lobby? Let us tell you about Spartanburg Library’s Music Sandwiched In free music series. Whether you work downtown and would like some live music to re-energize you for the second half of the day, or you are looking for a fun lunchtime experience to enjoy with your little ones, we have the details here.

Music Sandwiched In free music program at Spartanburg Library

What is Music Sandwiched In?

Did you know that for over 25 years, The Spartanburg Philharmonic and The Spartanburg Library have been providing the opportunity to enjoy lunch to live music free of charge? The series called “Music Sandwiched In” got its start in 1997 when the current headquarters library location was dedicated.

Every other Wednesday from 12:15 pm – 1:00 pm, people of all ages find themselves enjoying all types of music, from German Oompah band music to an electric cello and violin duet.

If you don’t have time to pack a lunch, don’t worry. Lunch is available for purchase when you get there. Or you could treat yourself to a yummy dessert to go with your bag lunch.

My son and I stumbled onto this one afternoon as we were leaving the children’s library. As we were exiting the library, I could hear singing and laughing coming from the Barrett room. My interest was piqued, and as I poked my head into the room, I heard a familiar tune. Selections from The Chapman Cultural Center’s production of “The Music Man” were being performed. I was thrilled, for several reasons, but mostly because now my son could see what characters were being spoofed on his favorite cartoon. He loved it and so did I.

I’m so excited to share this experience now with my young daughter. Being two, she has a mind of her own, and ticketed events are still a risk for us. With “Music Sandwiched In”, we can go stress-free, without worrying that I will have to walk away from a ticketed seat if she gets cranky.

Man playing a piano

Take your kids to Music Sandwiched In

Spartanburg Headquarters Library
151 S. Church Street, Spartanburg

A complete list of the upcoming performances can be found at the Music Sandwiched In website.

Free things to do in Spartanburg, SC

Looking for more free things to do in Spartanburg, SC? Here’s your ultimate guide to free or cheap things to do.

Best Coffee Shops Around Spartanburg County, SC

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Looking for the best coffee shops in Spartanburg, SC? Our team has visited quite a few. Read on to discover some of the most popular coffee shops in our area, along with our personal favorites!

Coffee flight from Milltown Coffee in Spartanburg, SC
Milltown Coffee Co.

Tired parents have been depending on coffee to get them through the day since the 15th century. This life-sustaining elixir is easy to make at home, but sometimes it just tastes better when someone else brews it! Our readers feel very strongly about this lifeline beverage, and now we’re letting you know where families love to go for a coffee fix in Spartanburg, SC.


Downtown Spartanburg

Spartanburg has great restaurants!

Here’s your Guide to Restaurants in Spartanburg, SC.

Find more coffee options just down the road in our Kidding Around Guide to Coffee Shops in Greenville. And if you’re not a coffee-drinker, then consider checking out our guide to the Best Hot Chocolate Spots in Spartanburg, SC.


Best Coffee in Spartanburg

Location: 121 Bellew Carver Road, Spartanburg, SC 29301

A quiet lakeside setting and family-friendly atmosphere make 121 Coffee a local favorite. Once a bait shop, this charming spot now offers a peaceful place to sip, relax, and recharge—inside or out by the water.

Bella Latte – Duncan

Location: 1595 East Main Street, Duncan, SC 29334

Conveniently located right off Exit 63 on I-85, Bella Latte in Duncan offers the same beloved coffee and bakery items found at their other locations. It’s a great grab-and-go option with plenty of sweet treats, too.

Bella Latte marquee sign which reads, "Pumpkin Spice Season is back!"
Bella Latte – West Spartanburg

Bella Latte – West Spartanburg

Location: 1637 John B. White Sr. Boulevard, Spartanburg, SC 29301

Bella Latte is a beloved local chain with multiple Spartanburg locations offering espresso drinks, teas, and baked goods. It’s a convenient coffee stop, especially if you’re heading to or from Hatcher Garden.

… It’s nice to stop before/after Hatcher Gardens!

Zananda H

Botanical Brew

Location: 109 A Spartanburg Highway, Lyman, SC 29365

This unique shop combines a plant store and coffee shop under one roof. It’s cozy and visually appealing, perfect for coffee lovers who also enjoy browsing greenery.

You’ll find Botanical Brew on our local plant shop list, too!

Buck ‘N Brew Coffee

Location: 18981 Asheville Highway, Campobello, SC 29322

Buck ‘N Brew is a rustic, family-friendly shop serving up coffee, ice cream, and breakfast bites. With warm décor and plenty of charm, it’s worth the short drive for a quiet moment or a casual treat.

Large mural of a red cardinal holding a cup of steaming coffee in its wing, while smaller red and gray cardinals fly behind it in a nature scene.
Cardinal Coffee & Bistro

Cardinal Coffee and Bistro

Location: 114 East Rutherford Street, Landrum, SC 29356

This small-town coffee shop offers a full espresso menu, breakfast and lunch items, and even ice cream—all in a cozy setting. It’s a great place to stop after exploring Landrum with the kids or heading out on a day trip.

Mural on the outside of the Cowpens Coffee and Creamery building, featuring the name of the establishment with large scoops of ice cream that look like hills and a few cows standing in front of them.
Cowpens Coffee & Creamery

Cowpens Coffee & Creamery

Location: 5370 North Main Street, Cowpens, SC 29330

Cowpens Coffee & Creamery offers USDA organic, fair-trade coffee, 32 flavors of Hershey’s ice cream, and fresh pastries. Families will love the board games, free book library, and outdoor seating—making it more than just a coffee stop.

The Hidden Bean

Location: 8881 Warren H. Abernathy Highway, Spartanburg, SC 29301

Tucked into the basement of a 1930s art deco building, The Hidden Bean has a speakeasy-style feel and serious coffee game. They serve everything from Cubanos to loose leaf teas in a space that feels cozy and just a little secretive.

Knowledge Perk

Location: 578 North Church Street, Spartanburg, SC 29303

Located right across from Wofford College, Knowledge Perk brings freshly roasted coffee with a fun atmosphere. It’s a modern, community-focused coffee shop with signature drinks and seasonal offerings to keep things fresh.

Interior of Knowledge Park
Knowledge Perk

Little River Cafe at Fretwell

Location: 101 Fretwell Street, Spartanburg, SC 29306

This is where Little River Roasting beans are roasted! Stop in for a $1 cup of self-serve coffee or grab a fresh bag to take home. Located near the Rail Trail, it’s a favorite among walkers, cyclists, and locals who love a DIY coffee bar.

“I love little river coffee roasting center and cafe. It’s right off the rail trail and fresh yummy coffee is $1. You can get your bag of coffee there. Always three of four options and make it your way coffee bar. And they even have non dairy creamer options. I love this place. Small, cozy, friendly and wonderful coffee.”

Kate
Little River Coffee Bar in Spartanburg, SC
Little River Coffee Bar

Little River Coffee Bar

Location: 188 West Main Street, Spartanburg, SC 29306

Located next to a downtown bookstore, this is one of Spartanburg’s most beloved coffee spots. It’s a reader favorite for both its quality coffee and cozy, productive atmosphere.

“Little Roasting Coffee, has some of the best coffee I have every had, and I lived in San Francisco.”

Dawn

“Little River Roasting Coffee Bar because it’s the best tasting coffee around, and I can hit up the book store while drinking.”

Melissa

Little River Drive-Thru

Location: 1624 East Main Street, Spartanburg, SC 29307

This drive-thru-only location offers the same quality coffee and espresso drinks without leaving your car. Ideal for tired parents on the go (or anyone with sleeping kiddos in the backseat).

Coffee flight from Milltown Coffee in Spartanburg, SC
Milltown Coffee Co.

Milltown Coffee Co.

Location: 601 East Main Street, Suite 1, Spartanburg, SC 29307

Milltown Coffee Co. is a newer shop known for delicious crepes, bagels, and espresso drinks. With breakfast and lunch options on the menu, it’s a solid choice whether you’re fueling up or slowing down.

The Pharmacy Coffee

Location: 187 North Church Street, Spartanburg, SC 29306

Part of the Little River Roasting family, this stylish shop is located inside the historic Montgomery Building. It’s newer to the scene but already well-loved for its ambiance and locally roasted drinks.

Scooter’s Coffee

Location: 1554 East Main Street, Duncan, SC 29334

This national drive-thru chain is known for speedy service and a wide range of flavor options. If you’re looking for consistency, convenience, and a great frozen blend, Scooter’s has you covered.

Spill the Beans

Location: 174 East Main Street, Spartanburg, SC 29306

Offering both premium coffee and custom-blended ice cream, Spill the Beans is a fun stop for the whole family. It’s a great downtown option whether you’re out for dessert, caffeine, or both.

Walk-up window at Voltage Coffee and Drinks in Boiling Springs, SC
Voltage Coffee and Drinks

Voltage Coffee and Drinks

Location: 5617 Parris Bridge Road, Boiling Springs, SC 29316

Voltage is a coffee trailer with walk-up and drive-thru service offering espresso drinks, cold brew, and Lotus energy drinks. They use Asheville-based Bean Werks coffee and are a favorite with locals looking for something different.

Coffee in Nearby Greer, SC

Just at the edge of town in Greer, there are a few great options. Grab your beverage of choice and then take a walk to City Park to sit on a bench swing in front of the fountain.

Barista Alley

Location: 101 Trade Street, Greer SC 29651

Barista Alley is a downtown Greer favorite serving specialty coffee, smoothie bowls, crepes, and more in a bright, welcoming space. Families love the indoor seating and friendly staff, and the location makes it easy to grab a treat and head over to Greer City Park just steps away.

Flying Fox Coffee

Location: 208 Trade Street, Greer, SC 29651

Now that you know where a good cup of caffeine can be found in Spartanburg you can grab some and conquer the world! Hot, iced, frozen, or black, these baristas will have you covered. 

Did we include your favorite place to grab coffee?

Express Your Inner Artist at Hearts of Clay

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Are you looking for a place to take your family for some creative fun? Hearts of Clay, right here in Spartanburg, is the perfect place for almost any occasion. It’s more than just a pottery studio, and we’re going to tell you why our family loves spending time there!

About Hearts of Clay

For over twenty years, families have been creating memories with Hearts of Clay (Formerly Flying Saucers). In that time this family-owned business has expanded to include glass fusing, canvas painting, and more.

A trip to Hearts of Clay is the answer whether you’re looking for some family fun time, gifts for family members, a fun place to host a birthday party, or even a place to bring the kids for a parent’s night out.

Hearts of Clay Studio in Spartanburg, SC

Our family has visited so many times, I don’t even remember the first time we went. Since that first time, we have celebrated my son’s fourth birthday there, commemorated every month of my daughter’s first year of life, and enjoyed a mommy and son date night. I even eat my morning cereal out of a Hello Kitty-inspired bowl I made there.

If you feel like you aren’t artistically inclined, you shouldn’t be intimidated. The pieces available range from beginner to intricate, and there’s always someone around to help. If you mess up, the glaze can be rinsed off and you can start over. Any age can have fun painting pottery, the glaze used is non-toxic and will not stain clothes. For the more artistically inclined you have the option to use the pottery wheel to “throw” your own piece to paint. Once your item is painted, you leave it behind to be kiln-fired and it’s ready in about a week. There are also pre-fired items that can be painted with acrylic paint if coming back is not an option.

Hearts of Clay offers options for everyone

If pottery isn’t your thing, they also offer canvas painting and other classes in the studio. The classes and events cost between $5-$12, and reservations are encouraged. I’m always looking for mom’s night out activities and canvas painting and margaritas, sounds like the perfect night!

Hearts of Clay also offers Kids events. With their convenient location, it’s the perfect opportunity to have a date night or get some holiday shopping done. You won’t have to worry about the kids, they’ll be fed dinner and get to create something. Reservations are required, and the cost is $5-$12 per child.

Home school families can register for the art enrichment classes offered once a month on Thursdays during the school year. These 60-minute classes cost $12 per child.

Preschool age children receive $2 off the item they paint as part of the “5 & under club” on Wednesdays.

If your church or school is looking for a fundraiser idea, Hearts of Clay can help with that too! They’ll include everything you’ll need to make pottery of your choice. This can even be utilized as just a fun activity for a large group. And a percentage of your cost will be donated to your school, church, or organization!

There are so many reasons to visit Hearts of Clay! I encourage you to check out the event calendar and head over to make some memories.

Hearts of Clay crafts, Spartanburg

Plan a visit to Hearts of Clay

Visit the Hearts of Clay website.
Tuesday-Thursday 11 am – 5 pm
Friday-Saturday 11 am – 7 pm
Sunday 1 pm – 5 pm
660 Spartan Boulevard, Suite #20, Spartanburg
864.576.2228

Have you ever visited Hearts of Clay?

Spend The Day With Knights And Fair Maidens At The Upstate Renaissance Faire at It’s New Location in 2025

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Join the fun at the Upstate Renaissance Faire!

Do you have an unruly bunch you need to keep entertained? Are you looking for a place to take your Lil’ knight in shining armor? Then we have the event for you! The Upstate Renaissance Faire is back on September 12th – 14th, 2025 at its new location at the Piedmont Interstate Fairgrounds in Spartanburg, SC

The Upstate Renaissance Faire in Greer, South Carolina

2025 Upstate Renaissance Faire Event Schedule

If your family could use an escape from reality, there’s no better place than the Upstate Renaissance Faire. The festival, now at the Piedmont Interstate Fairgrounds, will transport guests back to the time of knights, fair maidens, and sirens who lurk in the sea. The festival will be filled with fun events for the whole family. Don’t forget to plan your day to include a meal of giant turkey legs.

The schedule is totally packed and we will highlight some of what is happening below but you’re going to want to check out the whole schedule.

September 12th, 2025: 5 pm – 10 pm

The evening events will feature a plethora of dancing troupes, knight demonstrations, acrobats, fire shows, belly dancing, and so much more beginning at 5 pm. There will be court jesters, belly dancers, drum circles, and an awesome costume contest! You’ll also see dozens of performers and hands-on historic demonstrations.

September 13th, 2025: 10 am – 6 pm
September 14th, 2025: 10 am – 6 pm

Saturday is jammed-packed with entertainment. You will not want to miss the 12 pm parade throughout the fairgrounds. There will also be a Fairy Tea Party at 11 am, 2 pm, and 4 pm. You may also want to participate in the quest experiences, trinket trading, and practice your hand at ax-throwing before catching a sword duel in the Field of Glory.

Archery at the Upstate Renaissance Faire in Greer, South Carolina
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40+ Spaces for Superb Outdoor Dining: Greenville, SC and Spartanburg, SC

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What You’ll Learn: Where to find outdoor dining options in Greenville and Spartanburg, SC, with heated and shaded options


There is something special, a unique vibe, about outdoor dining. Greenville, SC, and Spartanburg, SC have dozens of restaurants that make their outdoor dining spaces worthwhile. No matter the temperature outdoors, there’s a restaurant outdoor dining option to keep you comfortable.

Our list includes Greenville and Spartanburg area restaurants with heated outdoor dining, shaded outdoor dining, and simply the best in the area! Now, go enjoy your lunch and dinner in the open air with outdoor seating!

Bookmark this page so you can check back no matter the weather

Restaurants with outdoor seating near Greenville, South Carolina
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Disc Golf is a Perfect Fall Family Activity

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Are you curious about the disc golf signs you see posted at local parks? If so, we are here today to tell you all about disc golf in Spartanburg and disc golf in Greenville. If you are looking for a fun outdoor family activity, we’ve got all you need to know about playing disc golf in the Upstate.

disc golf at Spartanburg parks
Tyger River Park

Looking for even more fun things to do outside? Check out our Ultimate Guide to Outdoor Activities.

What is Disc Golf?

Disc golf (also known as frisbee golf) is an outdoor sport involving plastic discs, metal baskets, and an outdoor course. Players try to throw their discs into the metal baskets in the least amount of throws possible. For instance, whoever ends up with the lowest number of throws is the winner. Basically, disc golf follows the rules of golf.

Why Disc Golf is a Great Family Activity

Disc golf is a great family activity because it is a sport that families can play and enjoy together! It is also an easy way to encourage your family to be healthy as the game requires walking and other physical efforts. Plus, it can only be played outdoors – making it a unique way to get some Vitamin D.

My family of four includes two adults, a 7-year-old and a 4-year-old. We like to play disc golf because it is something we can play together, and it gets us out of the house. My 4-year-old is not quite old enough to play the game, but she still benefits from exploring nature while we move from one hole to the next on the disc golf course. While we play, she looks for leaves, sticks, and bugs.

Meanwhile, my 7-year-old is learning how to play the game and not feel defeated when it takes him more throws to land his disc in the basket than his parents. Since it is a game where you must wait your turn, it opens up many teachable moments and leaves room for plenty of conversations. We talk and joke as we walk from hole to hole and as we wait for our turns.

Disc Golf

Where You Can Play Disc Golf in Greenville and Spartanburg?

Greenville and Spartanburg have many places to play disc golf. Even better – you can play disc golf for free at most of these parks! As long as you have some discs on hand and see a course, you can play.

Where to play disc golf in Greenville:

Where to play disc golf in Spartanburg:

You can find out specifics at Disc Golf Course Review by searching for the course location.

My family enjoys playing disc golf at Tyger River Park the best. It is a very family-friendly course with the first nine holes being shaded, and we only play the first nine holes rather than all 18 holes. This means it does not take as much time, which is important when you are playing with children. Plus, it is also at a park that is familiar to us.

Holmes Park

Where You Can Purchase Disc Golf Supplies

One of the best reasons to play disc golf as a family is because it is budget-friendly. As long as you have the basic disc golf supplies (i.e., discs), you don’t have to spend any more money! However, disc golf should be played with disc golf discs – not standard frisbees. Disc golf discs are designed for the sport and to fit into the baskets.

Just like the game of golf has many different types of putters, disc golf has many different types of discs. But, beginners only need a starter set that includes a driver, mid-range, and a putter. For the first few times, you really only need a driver disc.

Thankfully, you can buy these at local sports stores such as Academy and Dick’s. We’ve had a lot of luck finding used discs in excellent condition at Play It Again Sports in Spartanburg.

Things to Remember

If you are new to disc golf, here are some things you need to know:

  • Have a bag that can hold water, bug spray, and discs.
  • Don’t forget to wear sunscreen.
  • Always stand behind the person throwing the disc.
  • Disc golf follows basic golf etiquette (such as waiting your turn and allowing faster teams to play through).

Has your family played disc golf? What is your favorite disc golf course in Spartanburg? Let us know in the comments!

Things to Do Outside Near Greenville, SC

Looking for more outdoor fun? Here’s a list of 30+ things to do outside near Greenville, SC.

(2025) Best Family Friendly Fall Festivals: Spartanburg, SC

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Inside: A list of Fall Festivals near Spartanburg, SC


Another thing to look forward to during the close of summer is festivals, and we have the best fall festivals near Spartanburg, SC! Leaves crunching underfoot, the smell of pumpkin spice wafting from a coffee cup, and all things apple-related usher in the fall season. There are no shortages of celebrations in Hub City, so let’s get to planning the fun you and your family can have this fall!

The sunflower fields at Thompson Family Farms.
Sunflowers at Thompson Family Farms

*We are currently updating the list for 2025*

This list is provided for informational purposes, and events may change or be canceled at the last minute. Therefore, please be sure to confirm the status of an event before heading out.

2025 Spartanburg Fall Festivals

Upstate Renaissance Faire w/ Medieval Market

  • Where: Piedmont Interstate Fairgrounds – 575 Fairgrounds Rd, Spartanburg
  • When: September 12th-14th, 2025
  • What: Knights, dragons, and more! Lots of food, vendors, entertainment, and costumes.
  • Admission Cost: $10 – 13 and up , $5 – 4-12, 3 and under Free
  • Kidding Around® Review: The Upstate Renaissance Faire in Greer, SC

Spartanburg Greek Festival

  • Where: St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church – 697 Asheville Highway, Spartanburg
  • When: September 19th- 21st, 2025
  • What: Greek food, live music, dancing, and more
  • Admission: $2, children under 12 are free

Moon Fall Fest ’25

  • Where: 1070 Cooley Springs School Road, Chesnee
  • When: September 20th, 2025
  • What: Food trucks, artisan vendors, music, and more
  • Admission: TBD

Fall on the Farm at Stewart Farms

  • Where: Stewart Farms, Enoree
  • When: September 27th – November 1st, 2025; Fridays – Sundays
  • What: Fall activities, pumpkin patch, tractor ride, Peanuts-themed corn maze, nighttime maze, and wagon rides
  • Admission: Free entry, activities priced individually ($5-$12 per activity), pumpkins 60 cents per lb.
  • Kidding Around ® Review: Stewart Farms
Painted Hay rolls at Stewart Farms
Fall on the Farm at Stewart Family Farms

Railfest

  • Where: Greer City Park
  • When: Saturday, September 27th, 2025
  • What: Celebration of all things trains and rail safety. Food and drink available to purchase.
  • Admission: Free

Fall for Spartanburg with Cara Bella Boutique

  • Where: Dunbar and Magnolia Streets
  • When: September 20th, 2025
  • What: Live music, artisans, and crafters. Pet and kid-friendly!
  • Admission: Free

Greer Arts and Eats Festival

  • Where: Downtown Greer
  • When: Saturday, October 4th, 2025 from 10 am – 8 pm
  • What: Lots of food, live music, art, and more!
  • Admission: Free
Greer Arts and Eats Festival
Greer Arts and Eats Festival, Greer, SC

Spartanburg International Festival

  • Where: Barnet Park
  • When: October 4th, 2025
  • What: A celebration of different cultures through food, dance, music, and more!
  • Admission: Free

Neewollah

  • Where: Croft State Park
  • When: October 4th, 2025
  • What: Annual Halloween celebration with bounce houses, face painting, hay rides, trick or treating, and more.
  • Admission: $5 Adults $2 child $10 wrist bands (activities are cash only)

More Fall Festivals with Dates TBA

Fall at the Farm

  • Where: Thompson Family Farms, Campobello
  • When: August 28th – October, 2024; Wednesdays – Saturdays
  • What: Sunflower maze, pick your own pumpkin patch, U-pick flowers, photo opportunities, and corn varieties to purchase.
  • Admission: Free admission
  • Kidding Around® Review: Thompson Family Farms

Fall Family Festival & Tunes

  • Where: Events by the River, Woodruff, SC
  • When: November 23rd, 2024
  • What: Petting zoo, vendors, food trucks, games, kids zone, fire pit, and more
  • Admission: Free entry

Spartanburg Soaring

  • Where: Barnet Park, Spartanburg
  • When: TBD (Mid October)
  • What: A festival celebrating the art of kiting
  • Admission: Free
Soaring Kite festival

Looking for more fall fun? Check out our guide to Fall Festivals Near Greenville to Check Out This Season, with more event listings in the Upstate!

Kidding Around Greenville events calendar for Greenville, SC

For more fall festivals and other events not listed here, check out the Kidding Around® Events Calendar.

Fall for Greenville

Why not make even more memories this fall by knocking out some of these things to do this fall near Greenville, SC?

The Mary Black Rail Trail in Spartanburg, SC

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Are you looking for a great place to stretch your legs out and get some exercise in Spartanburg, SC? The Mary Black Rail Trail offers residents and visitors to downtown Spartanburg more than just an urban hiking trail. It’s a spot that will even appeal to kids of different ages & interests.

The Mary Black Rail Trail in Spartanburg, SC
The Mary Black Rail Trail in Spartanburg, SC

The Mary Black Rail Trail

About 2 miles one-way, or just under 4 miles out-and-back, this converted train track trail is a popular spot for locals to run, walk, jog and bike in Spartanburg. Convenient access from several different spots makes hopping onto the trail easy.

  • The North Trailhead – 295 East Henry Street
  • The Rail Yard – 353 Forest Ave
  • The South Trailhead – Country Club Road
Along the Rail Trail in Spartanburg, SC
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Fun Things to Do with Your Preschooler Inside in Spartanburg, SC

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Are you looking for indoor things to do with preschoolers in Spartanburg, SC? If so, local mom, Juliet has some fantastic ideas of nearby indoor activities your preschooler will love! Check out her suggestions for indoor preschool hang-outs and let us know others in the comments.

Let’s face it, walking in a winter wonderland or enjoying a warm, sunny day sounds great in theory, but not so much with your spirited preschoolers in tow!  If extreme weather has nixed your usual outdoor activities and the dreaded cabin fever has hit your household like a ton of bricks, check out these low-cost, indoor activities in Spartanburg that are perfect for preschoolers.  Keep it handy for rainy days, too.

Spartanburg Science Center

Things to Do for Preschoolers Inside in Spartanburg, SC

The Children’s Museum of the Upstate – Spartanburg

Designed for children aged 5 and under, The Children’s Museum of the Upstate – Spartanburg is a cozy venue for letting little ones burn off some energy and explore. In addition to interactive exhibits for preschoolers, padded and contained areas on each of the museum’s two levels are designed for infants to crawl or cruise around safely while parents can keep an eye on an older, more independent sibling.

The museum also has an active events calendar of drop-in events, such as Random Acts of Science, Open Art Studios, and Story Time & More. Admission is $5-15 and children under the age of six months get in free. Admission is also included with a TCMU membership.

TCMU Spartanburg

The Spartanburg Science Center

Located on East Saint John Street in downtown Spartanburg, the John F. Green Spartanburg Science Center is a great way to spend a cold winter’s day.  With interactive exhibits, a reptile room, and Legos galore, preschoolers can easily spend several hours playing, exploring new concepts, and observing nature. 

Other exhibits include a robotic arm, a science mini-theatre with short films, and a 3-person Virtual Reality experience.  Check out the Spartanburg Science Center website for current hours, admission fees, and holiday/summer camp opportunities.

Westgate Mall Children’s Play Area

Looking for some free entertainment for the kiddos? Look no further than the local Westgate Mall!  An indoor play area- perfectly sized for little hands and feet to climb and jump- is located beside the Belk department store. Bring your extra quarters and send them around the tiny carousel nearby, too.

It’s rarely crowded during morning hours, and if you bring your stroller, you can even get in some fast-paced mall walking/exercise beforehand.  Head to the food court for a special lunch treat or dessert afterward.

Storytime and Playtime

We all know how important reading is for preschoolers, and Spartanburg has great options when it comes to making reading fun. The Spartanburg Public Library Headquarters, located in downtown Spartanburg, has a fantastic setup of indoor play tables with puzzles, light boards, manipulatives, and drawing tables.  Combine these self-paced play opportunities with a storytime full of songs, books, poetry, and the occasional puppet show, and you have a preschooler’s paradise. 

Check out Spartanburg Library Events for ALL the storytimes available in the county! Most storytimes follow up with a special child-led playtime – think of carts of toys! If you only get books at Spartanburg County Library, you are missing out!

Toddler Time at Big Air Trampoline Park Spartanburg

Every Wednesday and Thursday from 10 am -1 pm when Spartanburg District 6 schools are in session, Big Air caters to its littlest customers with their Toddler Time.  Ages 6 and under have three hours to roam all of Big Air’s attractions without the intimidation factor of older children.  Admission is $12 per jumper. Big Air even guarantees your little will play hard and nap harder!

Big Air Trampolines

Think outside the box

Looking for activities to get out of the house AND socialization opportunities for yourself and your preschooler?  Join a local moms club – where activities like indoor crafts, parties, and playdates are scheduled on a weekly basis, check out church groups for Bible studies or MOPS that are kid-friendly.  Join a gym with a childcare center or sign up for a weekly preschool gymnastics or music class.

What’s your favorite indoor activity for your little ones?

Indoor things to do in the Upstate, SC

For more things to do inside, see our Kidding Around Indoor Guide to Upstate, SC.

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