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, SC, and Spartanburg, SC
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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?
Learn why Main Event is the perfect place for fun in our KA review!
Do you wish there was 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.
What is Music Sandwhiched 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 peeked 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.
Take your kids to Music Sandwiched In
Spartanburg Headquarters Library 151 S. Church Street, Spartanburg
Looking for the best coffee shops in Spartanburg, SC? We asked our readers where the best cup of joe is served, and our readers had a clear favorite!
Little River Roasting
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 don’t things always taste better when someone else makes them for us? Our readers feel very strongly about this lifeline beverage and they wasted no time letting us know where they love to go for their coffee in Spartanburg, SC.
188 West Main Street, Spartanburg SC 29306 | 864.582.1227
KAS readers love their coffee, and the majority seem to love it from Little River Coffee Bar! Located next to downtown’s favorite bookshop, it’s the perfect place to grab some coffee and get some work or reading done.
Little River Coffee Bar
“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.”
If you prefer to make your own coffee, you can still enjoy our reader’s favorite coffee at home. They roast their own beans and you can visit the roasters to pick up some freshly roasted coffee!
“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.”
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.
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?
Looking for more coffee?
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The Perfect Spot for a Book, Coffee, & Treat in Downtown Spartanburg
Northern Greer is Home to Scändi Tiny Coffee
TReehouse Cafe and Art Studio: Coffee, Lunch and Lots of Art With Kids in Travelers Rest, SC
Delicious Coffee and More at Methodical Coffee in Greenville, SC
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!
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 (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.
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.
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!
Need to pick up dinner tonight in Greenville? These family meals to go in Greenville, SC can help! Some nights there’s just not enough time to cook a home-cooked meal. When the days are tough, it’s helpful to grab a meal. You will also find some Spartanburg family meal deals listed to keep in mind. Here is a list of local restaurants where you can grab a meal for dinner tonight.
Family To Go Meal includes 1 pound of meat, 4 buns, 2 pints of sides (cheesy potato casserole, Ellie’s baked beans, coleslaw, green beans, sweet potato crunch, mac & cheese, and corn pudding). The full, printable Bobby’s BBQ To-Go Menu is available here.
Family meals for a family of four for only $34.99! They offer Lasagna meals, Calabash Chicken meals, Gyro Zorba meals, and Chicken Zorba meals. Each meal serves four and additional servings can be added upon request. This offer is available for carryout only.
Grab a family meal – or bundle as they call it – of chicken tenders, grilled salmon, or house salad. Prices range from $26.99 – $36.99. Bundles come with six honey butter croissants.
Get a Fajita or Taco Kit for four people, an enchilada kit, or a nachos kit. Need a drink to go with your family meal? Add on margarita mix, and just add your own tequila.
Check their website for the latest family meal offerings for both Greenville & Spartanburg. Some recent offerings were braised short ribs, bourbon chicken, chicken tenders, and smothered beef. The menu is all a la carte so you can choose whatever you want to add.
Feed & Seed Co. at Judson Mill right outside downtown Greenville has meals to go in its freezers daily. Sign up for their newsletter to learn about special deals!
The farm-to-table restaurant has a variety of offerings for family meals that are offered Monday, Wednesday, and Fridays. Be sure to call in your order by 4 pm. Their menu on the Fork and Plough website.
You can choose from various family meals and weekly specials at Good to Go GVL for your family. Get on their email list to stay updated on their latest offerings. This is also a great option for sending a meal to someone as they deliver!
Lots of delicious options for family “Haul it Home” meals that include pulled pork, chicken, and typical sides like baked beans, potato salad, and bread.
Don’t forget about our Kids Eat Free list for lots of places to dine around town and still save money!
More Family Meals-To-Go in the Upstate
Here are a few more family meal options we’ve seen in the past that our readers have recommended that are available all the time.
Viva Chicken
This new Peruviuan Rotiserie Chicken restaurant in Greenville, offers families a great deal on their signature chicken with 3 family-size side dishes for $28.95.
This place was the one that readers recommended the most. They have a family meal for either four or eight people that is really awesome. I personally love Tropical Grille, which is a Cuban fast-food restaurant with a healthy twist. Their perfectly seasoned chicken and pork pair well with rice and steamed vegetables – and don’t forget their sauces, which are all amazing and delicious. A few readers even said that the family meals give them leftovers (yay!). No need to call ahead. Because of the suggestions of our readers, I did my own “research” and tried this out one night and did not disappoint – I had leftovers for the next day.
The family of four meals is approx $28 unless you substitute pork and then it’s a little more and comes with chicken plus four sides and sauces and a half-gallon drink. The family of eight meals is $50, the same stipulations. It comes with two drinks instead of one for a family of four. You can walk in and order these but they suggest calling ahead of you want the pork instead of chicken. See their website for locations.
$27.99/four person
$49.99/eight person
Taziki’s
This place serves up healthy, Mediterranean cuisine that is fast and affordable. Everyone in the family will find something they love here. Taziki’s offers fresh take-home dinners for four people that include a Greek salad, basmati rice or roasted potatoes, and pita chips. You have to call two hours in advance though (or order online) and pick-up after 2 pm so plan ahead. They offer mostly meat options but do have a grilled vegetable option. Prices range from $42.99 up to $71.99 depending on your entrée of choice.
New York Butcher Shoppe
You can either sign up for the New York Butcher Shoppe email, which will give you the week’s menu, or call ahead. The email I got displayed mouth-watering bacon and cheddar stuffed pork chops, which came with french bread and a house salad.
Sun Belly Cafe
A haven for the vegetarians and vegans among us – and really, just those of us who love great food – is the Sun Belly Cafe in Greenville. Follow their Facebook page for their latest menu items and call or text them 24 hours ahead of when you want to pick up.
Henry’s Smokehouse
With three locations spread through Greenville and Simpsonville, Henry’s Smokehouse makes the decision to not cook a breeze. You order what you want online, including bulk items, pick a time and location for pickup, and you’re done. Super easy and very tasty.
Dani’s Delectables
Dani is a local chef who makes amazing family meals. We got to try some of her dinner entrees plus dessert and were totally blown away. She delivers for a fee or you can choose pickup. You must order by Wednesday for the following week.
Silver Bay
This primarily seafood restaurant in Greenville has affordable family pack meals. One of the meals that feeds 5-6 people has 10 pieces of Alaskan white fish, a box of baby shrimp, and six chicken tenders for $42.99. All family packs come with hush puppies, french fries/baked potato/rice, vegetables, and coleslaw. There are lots of options so check out their menu.
Rocky’s Hot Chicken Shack
Rocky’s offers several family-style chicken platters and family-style sides. And of course, you can grab a gallon of tea and either pint or quart-sized dips to go along with your family meal to go.
Olive Garden
At the time of this writing, the Olive Garden on Laurens Road offers a dinner-only Family Style lasagna meal to go that serves 4-12 people and includes Lasagna Classico made with Italian sausage and pan-seared beef, their Famous House Salad, and breadsticks. The price is $60-90 and you can order online for same-day pickup.
Deluxe Classic Tropical Bowl Meal $27.99 (4 people) $49.99 (8 people) Includes Chopped chicken (or sub another meat for additional cost), yellow rice, lettuce, tomatoes, sauces, a side dish, and drinks
The family meal deal serves 4 people and comes with the entree and sides. You choose 2 classic sides (steamed broccoli, blistered brussels, grilled asparagus, house salad, mashed potatoes, Citychips, fried okra, or brown rice) Entree items include:
Cayla is a private chef who creates lots of amazing meals for families. She posts menus every Friday and you must put your order in by Sunday. She delivers to Inman, Spartanburg, and Boiling Springs. Look to pay between $30-$60 for meals plus you can add on sides and desserts.
Make the most of your family meal time together and get talking to your kids and family. Grab these free table talk cards from Girl Scouts Mountains to Midlands to get you started. Make it a fun game, and you’ll be talking to each other about everything before you know it.
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Local mom Jennifer Curry reviews the Hub City Bookshop and Little River Coffee Bar in downtown Spartanburg. These two wonderful businesses are conveniently located right beside each other and provide the perfect place to read, drink coffee, and eat a treat! For more ideas of things to do in downtown Spartanburg see our guide.
Located in the heart of downtown Spartanburg in the historic Masonic Temple resides three thriving businesses. Anchored by the award-winning Hub City Bookshop, these local businesses have become a focal point for the booming downtown movement by creating a spot for local residents and families to gather, share ideas, and shop.
Hub City Bookshop
Hub City Bookshop is more than just a local independent bookstore. They are known for the wide range of regional books and creative nonfiction titles published through Hub City Press. Known for supporting local authors as well as quality pieces, Hub City Bookshop has gained quite a reputation in the literary community.
It all started 20+ years ago, when three local Spartanburg writers (John Lane, Betsy Teter, and Gary Henderson) met to discuss the area’s struggles since the close of the textile mills. Rather than dwelling on the current difficulties, they formed the Hub City Writers Project (modeled after the Federal Writers Project). Together, they published the Hub City Anthology. The book was a success.
After, Hub City Writers Project continued to publish works specific to place – by people in the region about the region under Hub City Press books.
In the meantime, the only local independent bookstore in Spartanburg closed, so the three founders approached the mayor to see about forming a local independent non-profit bookstore (with all the proceeds going to support creative writing education and independent book publishing). He agreed. A location was decided upon, and two other local businesses joined alongside the Hub City Writer’s Project to create a space for local events, coffee, and desserts. They made history.
Now that you understand the history and significance of our local bookshop, you should know that it is truly a wonderful store that offers a diverse range of books and book related products. In addition to featuring the Hub City Press works, they also sell popular bestsellers, new releases, children’s books, young adult books, regional authors, and more. If they do not have it in the store, they can order it for you.
Little River Coffee Bar
Another unique local business in the Masonic Temple is the Little River Coffee Bar. The establishment is known for selling Little River Roasters coffee – a local business that is socially and ethically responsible. From knowing the farms where the beans come from to roasting it locally, Little River Roasters is a Spartanburg favorite.
Since this coffee shop not only serves the best local coffee and cold brew, the fact that it is attached to a bookshop and bakery makes it stand out. The Coffee Bar has several different sitting options – perfect for individuals working or for groups of friends wishing to chat. In addition to serving excellent coffee, they also host open mic nights and other events.
Hub City Bookshop and Little River Coffee Bar are great local businesses your family will enjoy supporting. Families can take time to peruse the outstanding collection of children’s books and young adult books at Hub City Bookshop. They applied and received a grant from the James Patterson Foundation for $6000 allowing them to increase the size of their children’s section (guaranteeing there will be a book your reluctant reader will love).
Families can purchase a book knowing they are supporting a local nonprofit, and then head next door for coffee and treats. These businesses are what make Spartanburg special and more reasons for you to love where you live.
What’s your favorite local business in Spartanburg?
Leaves crunching underfoot, the smell of pumpkin spice wafting from a coffee cup, and all things apple-related usher in the fall season. Another thing to look forward to during the close of summer is festivals, and we have the best fall festivals near Spartanburg, SC! 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!
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.
For more fall festivals and other events not listed here, check out our Events Calendar.
Are you looking for a place on the water where the whole family can enjoy fishing, water sports, and a fenced-in playground? Whether it’s spending time on the lake or enjoying a picnic in the shade we’ve found the perfect spot. We’ve included all the info you’ll need for spending the day on Lake Bowen and at Anchor Park.
Lake Bowen covers over 1,500 acres and contains approximately 33 miles of shoreline. Anchor Park on the lake includes picnic pavilions, fishing, a playground, two boat ramps, and the Lake Bowen Warden’s Office.
Water sports on Lake Bowen
If you plan on use of any type of watercraft, be sure to call the Warden’s Office in advance at 864.592.2240. There are office hours posted, however, the office isn’t always open during those hours. If the warden goes out on the lake, the office will be closed. This is the only way to obtain a permit to be on the lake, so call ahead.
Boat permits are issued through the Spartanburg Water system that owns the lake. Rates start at $25 seasonally for non-motorized boats. Life jackets are required and a loaner system has been set up at the boat dock if you forgot one.
If boating isn’t what you had in mind, the park has tons of shade trees and a modern playground. The play area is divided into two age-appropriate sections and is completely fenced-in with picnic shelters and a green space.
Fishing on Lake Bowen
While there’s no fishing pier structure, there is plenty of shoreline to fish from. Just make sure you have your fishing license handy. Obtain one from the Warden’s Office or online at SCDNR.com. We didn’t have a chance to do any fishing this time, but I hope to do so in the near future.
This park really is lovely. There are plenty of benches and even a few that swing. The open green space is perfect if you want to bring along a cornhole set for some friendly family competition. We brought our hammock, but never had a chance to set it up. Pesky summer storms! There are plenty of trees, I just didn’t notice if any were close enough together.
If you pack a picnic, you really could spend the whole day relaxing here. There’s even an ice machine in the park to help make sure those sodas stay frosty!
I hope you’ll plan a day on Lake Bowen soon. I know we are looking forward to going back.
Daily park hours: 6 am – midnight- Restrooms close at 7 pm and open at 6:30 am Office hours for purchasing land permits: Monday – Friday 2 – 4 pm Office hours for purchasing boating permits: Sunday – Friday 12 – 4 pm, Saturday 8:30 am – 5 pm
What’s your family’s favorite thing to do at Lake Bowen?
Are you looking for a new 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
Just under 4 miles in length, 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.
