Posts Tagged ‘Things to Do’

Go Camping! Here Are Places to Sleep Under The Stars In and Around Spartanburg, SC

Ready to enjoy some camping in Spartanburg, SC? With all of the natural beauty surrounding us in the Upstate, the best way to enjoy it is by immersing yourself. We have a guide to all the places you’ll want to check out when looking for a place to camp near Spartanburg.

Whether the scenery you’re looking for includes mountains, rivers, or lakes – we have it all right here.

Things to Do Outside Near Greenville, SC

Check out even more fun things to do outside near Spartanburg, SC!

Places To Camp In the Spartanburg Area

Croft State Park

450 Croft State Park Road, Spartanburg
Located in Spartanburg County, this 7,000+ acre state park will make you forget the city. Once an Army base, this park is now peaceful and quiet. This park has lots of activities to choose from. You can rent a fishing boat at the wardens’ office for a leisurely paddle or fishing. The park has an incredible 20 miles of hiking and biking trails. The park is known for its great equestrian facilities, plus more than 20 miles of equestrian trails.

This park has tent campsites with electricity and water, RV sites, and primitive campsites.

Read a mom’s review of Croft State Park

Kings Mountain State Park

1277 Park Road, Blacksburg
Located just north of Spartanburg on I-85, this nearly 7,000-acre state park can be seen from the interstate. The park is part of something called the Ridgeline Trail, which connects three parks and two states. The adjacent Kings Mountain National Military Park and Crowders Mountain State Park are all connected by this 16-mile hiking trail loop. In the fall, visitors can enjoy living history demonstrations on the park’s replica 1800’s farm.

This park has tent campsites with electricity and water, trailside campsites with water, and primitive campsites.

Read a mom’s review of King’s Mountain State Park

Andrew Jackson State Park

196 Andrew Jackson State Park Road, Lancaster
This 360-acre park is located just south of Charlotte. A living history program, museum, and regularly scheduled community events make this one of South Carolina’s popular state parks.

This park has tent campsites with electricity and water, RV sites, and primitive campsites.

Spartanburg NE/Gaffney KOA

160 Sarratt School Road, Gaffney
This location offers tent sites with water and electricity, RV sites, cabins, and Lodge accommodations.

Chester State Park

759 State Park Drive, Chester
At just about an hour and a half from Spartanburg, this park is a hidden gem. Aside from all of the activities one would expect from a state park, this location also offers a nine-hole disc golf course.

This park has tent sites with water and electricity, RV sites, and primitive campsites for groups.

For details about more campsites in and around Greenville, check out our sister site’s Guide to Camping Near Greenville.

For details about more campsites in and around Greenville, check out our Guide to Camping Near Greenville.

Places To Camp In North Carolina

South Mountains State Park

3001 South Mountain Park Avenue, Connelly Springs NC
Note: The Park is currently closed due to Hurricane Helene damage. The park has a waterfall, trout fishing, 40 miles of hiking trails, and more. It also includes a visitor center with museum-quality exhibits.

This park offers 18 drive-up camping sites and two dozen backpacking sites.

Hickory Nut Falls Family Campsite

639 Main Street, Chimney Rock NC
Note: The Park, and all of Chimney Rock, is currently closed due to Hurricane Helene damage. This locally-owned campsite offers tent camping with utilities, RV sites, and a single cabin unit.

Crowders Mountain State Park

522 Park Office Lane, Kings Mountain NC
Located just over the state line and adjacent to Kings Mountain State Park, this land has seen a lot of history. Originally grazing land for elk and buffalo, the mountain was spared being turned into a mine by conservationists in 1973. In addition to hikes along the Ridgeline Trail, the park offers paddling, fishing, rock climbing, and bouldering.

This park has tent campsites with electricity and water, family size (2 pad) sites, and primitive campsites.

Places To Camp in The Piedmont Region of South Carolina

Sesquicentennial State Park

9564 Two Notch Road, Columbia
Just outside of Columbia, this 1,400-acre park boasts the only splash pad in the state park system. The park has a 30-acre lake and a six-mile biking trail loop.

This park has tent sites with water and electricity and primitive campsites for groups.

Read a mom’s review of Sesquicentennial State Park

Congaree National Park

100 National Park Road, Hopkins
Host to an impressive light show in May, this park is home to the synchronous firefly. These insects draw huge crowds during those few weeks. During the other 11 months of the year, there is still much to be seen by foot, canoe, or kayak in this 20,000-acre national park. Keep in mind this park is part of a flood plain that includes the Congaree River, so keeping an eye on the weather while planning to visit is important.

This park has primitive backcountry camping and campsites without running water or electricity.

Read a mom’s review of Congaree National Park

Where is your family’s favorite place to camp near the Upstate?

Takeoff Mini Golf: Airplane-Themed Mini-Golf Course in Greenville, SC

Have you been to Takeoff Mini Golf in Greenville, SC yet? The only aviation-themed miniature golf course in the Upstate is located next to Runway Park near downtown Greenville. We’ve got all the details.

After a 20-year corporate career, Megan Mishler needed a change, something fun that would allow her time with her two little kids. Her husband, Anthony, has his small plane pilot’s license and after visiting Greenville’s Runway Park, they had their answer: they would open an aviation-themed miniature golf course right next to the park. The dream came true.

For more amazing things to do in Greenville, SC, don’t miss our guide to Things to Do in Upstate, SC.

Takeoff Mini-Golf Course

When Megan and Anthony decided to go with the aviation theme for the mini-golf course, they went all in. Every detail was thoughtfully devised and the experience centers around having fun with your family and friends in a unique and adventurous way.

There are 19 holes (18 plus a bonus!) and each one is a bit longer in length than a standard mini-golf course so you have more space to get those coveted hole-in-ones, or just laugh at how bad you are at mini-golf (ahem, myself).

The lights that dot the course look like actual runway lights, the numbers of each hole look identical to the ones you would see on a runway, there are plane propellers on one of the holes, and the last hole has a real plane beacon that lights up and has a siren if you make a hole-in-one.

The course lights up like a runway at night even and like at next door Runway Park, you can watch small planes land and take off not 200 yards away at the airport.

Kids and Adults Will Love This Place

My kids, ages 11 and 7, loved, loved, loved this place. They had such fun trying out the different holes and watching the golf ball bounce over the humps, through obstacles, and around boulders. They thought the hole where you needed to get the ball into a small water cascade so it could get to the hole was awesome. I mean, I thought it was awesome, too. They loved trying to hit the ball under a big boulder bridge and enjoyed trying to get a hole-in-one on the last, beacon hole.

For the enjoyment of the adults, they have holes that, while tracking with the plane theme, were designed to look like old school games like Plinko and Skee-ball. I freaked out here. Obviously. I love those games! The Plinko one has lights that all light up at night and look like runway lights, and the skeeball one – well, that was hard. I couldn’t get the ball through it where it would come out the other side but I had a blast. I love those thoughtful touches that Megan and Anthony did to make sure every guest, no matter their age, has a great experience.

Takeoff Café

During the hot summer months, you’ll appreciate the 32 flavors plus four house specialties of shaved ice in two sizes: coach and first-class. They also have hot and iced coffee, snacks, ice cream, water, soda, and yogurt drinks available.

Bathrooms are indoors at the café and a shaded pavilion has plenty of seating for guests.

Birthday Parties

If you’re already thinking Takeoff Mini Golf would be a great spot to host a birthday party, you’re right. They have three birthday packages available, starting at $250 that comes with 10 passes to play the course plus either a shaved ice or ice cream treat. Two of the packages offer total turnkey service that includes aviation-themed decorations.

One of those packages though is extra special. Included in this birthday package is the opportunity for the birthday child and two guests to take a Discovery Ride in a small plane with Greenville Aviation to see Greenville from the air, taking off and landing right there at the airport. That package includes 10 passes and ice cream treats, a gift for the birthday child, pavilion rental, decorations, and memories to last a lifetime. That fantastic birthday package costs $475.

Special Events

Glow Golf

Go to Takeoff Mini Golf for Glow Golf. You’ll play with glowing golf balls to a DJ cranking out some seriously good music. You must purchase tickets in advance at $15 per person.

Watch!

2025 Glow Golf Dates

March 22nd
April 12th
May 3rd and 17th
July 26th
August 30th
September 13th
October 11th

Hours and Play Prices

Takeoff Mini-Golf has putters for all ages and balls, which come with your mini-golf ticket. Ticket prices are $11.50/age 13+ and $9.50/age 4-12. Kids 3 and under play for free with golden plastic putters. Expect to spend about an hour and a half playing the course.

Hours are:

Monday-Thursday Closed
Friday, Saturday, and Sunday – 10 am – 5:30 pm

Takeoff Mini Golf
28 Airport Road Ext, Greenville
864.263.3456

Find more fun things to do outside in Greenville, SC!

Your Kids Will Love the TCMU Location in Spartanburg, SC

Have you been to Spartanburg’s children’s museum yet? TCMU Spartanburg offers a fun and educational indoor activity geared specifically for children five years of age and under. This museum location is perfect for your littlest ones. With padded play areas, water play, a Publix mini grocery store, and a new Storyburg, there’s plenty for them to explore!

Looking for more indoor activities to entertain the kiddos this summer?
Check out our Indoor Guide to Spartanburg!

About TCMU Spartanburg

Located at 130 Magnolia Street in the heart of Spartanburg’s downtown, TCMU Spartanburg is an attached two-story building with two levels of interactive exhibits to explore. The hours are from 9 am – 4:30 pm Tuesday – Saturday and Sunday 11 am – 4:30 pm.

Tickets are $10 for SC residents and $15 for Non-SC Residents. Educators, homeschool students, seniors, and military receive a discounted ticket price of $8. Members and children under the age of 6 months get in free. TCMU also participates in the Museums for All Program, which means families can gain admission for $5 per person when they present an EBT card. Advance timed ticketing is encouraged for entry and can be purchased online.

With your museum admission, you have access ALL DAY and can come and go as needed. For example, you could go in the morning, head home for naps, and come back in the afternoon! You can also purchase a membership that allows access for your entire family for both the Greenville and Spartanburg locations.

Public parking is available off of Magnolia Street and there is also a parking garage directly across from the museum, which is reasonably priced. (Around $1 for two hours of parking.) There are also limited free spots in front of the storefronts along Magnolia.

This museum is specifically designed for children 6 and under and includes lower exhibits for smaller children and areas designed for babies.

1st floor at TCMU Spartanburg

TCMU Spartanburg has a friendly, helpful staff that will stamp your hand upon payment and entrance. This stamp allows you all-day access to the museum.

The first floor has stroller parking, as well. As you walk in you will see an enclosed padded play area for smaller babies. They can scoot, crawl, and toddle to their hearts’ content. This is a shoe-free zone, too.

Deeper into the museum is a fully stocked and recently remodeled Publix grocery store, pediatric doctor’s office, tree-themed climbing playhouse and slides, and leaf vacuum/blower.

2nd floor at TCMU Spartanburg

Head down the staircase or elevator to check out the basement level. There is an interactive water exhibit that features water spray spouts, building and manipulating currents, fishing poles, and lures, and special baby seats for the tiniest explorers to safely sit and splash in the water.

indoor play for todders at TCMU Spartanburg

Aprons are available to keep clothes dry, but you may also want to bring a change of clothes if your child doesn’t want to wear the apron.

Continue through the 2nd level and you will find a giant train table, another enclosed baby play area and the new Storyburg exhibit. Towards the back of the first floor (or closest to the stairwell going back up to the main entrance) is the classroom.

Special crafts and storytimes are located in the classroom and staff will invite children in to participate and create a project. This is great for kids of all ages as the craft can usually be as complex or as simple as the child wishes. For example, using pre-cut circles, my 6-year-old was prompted to create a picture of her family, while my 22-month-old and three-month-old were happy just to get to use glue sticks to paste as many circles as they desired onto the paper.

What makes TCMU Spartanburg awesome

There is SO much to do! Kids love it! Even my 6-year-old and her 7-year-old friend, who is technically over the age the exhibits are geared towards, were constantly occupied and having fun, but it is a magical level of freedom and exploration and play for my 22-month-old and three-year-old. All the exhibits are just the right height for them to play independently and without a plethora of older children, they felt confident and safe to freely explore and play.

They have never been ready to leave when I finally call it a day.

And, the open space of the floor plan means you can sit in a central location and still keep your children insight as they move from exhibit to exhibit. So if one child wants to explore the grocery store, while the other child wants to play doctor, and one more wants to climb into the treehouse and slide, you can easily keep an eye on everyone without having to negotiate locations with your children.

This is awesome! As a mother of three, I cannot love this more. The facilities are clean. Staff members are always tidying and the floors and toys are clean and accessible.

There are picnic tables outside the building if you want to pack a lunch or snack and sneak outside for a quick edible recharge, or you can walk to one of the nearby restaurants if you are looking for a more formal sit-down lunch and then head back to TCMU for more fun.

I am so excited and proud of Spartanburg for creating such a wonderful place for our youngest citizens to play and learn together. I look forward to many more playdates at TCMU.

Visit TCMU Spartanburg

TCMU Spartanburg
130 Magnolia Street, Spartanburg
864.233.7755

Tuesday – Saturday: 9 am – 4:30 pm
Sunday: 11 am – 4:30 pm

General admission: $10-15
Seniors & Military: $8
Members: Free

Here are all the best things to do in Spartanburg, SC!

Take a look at TCMU’s other location: TCMU Greenville

Have you checked out TCMU, yet? If so, we would love to hear about your experience!

Kidding Around Spartanburg: The Ultimate Guide to Spartanburg, SC

Spartanburg, SC, also known at the Hub City, has a little of everything for families: amazing parks, cultural venues, a bustling food scene, plus a walkable and growing downtown with shops and lots of things to do. Residents of Spartanburg enjoy ever-changing seasonal festivities and holiday traditions. Children have a wide variety of educational options. It’s all right here in Spartanburg, SC!

Things to Do in Spartanburg

Things to Do in Spartanburg, SC: If you’re looking for things to do in Spartanburg, this is your list. It is our giant guide of things to do near Spartanburg full of adventures and things to discover in the Hub City.

Events happening this month in Spartanburg
Indoor Things to Do Near Spartanburg: Looking for something to do indoors? Whether it’s too hot or too rainy, you’ll find somewhere to go and something to do on this list of indoor things to do in Spartanburg.
Outdoor Things to Do Near Spartanburg: Have an adventure outdoors in Spartanburg, SC.
Classes and Activities for Kids: Find fun classes and activities for kids of all ages.
Park Guide: Discover all of Spartanburg and the Upstate’s amazing parks. Sort by desired features, equipment and location!
Romantic Dates in Spartanburg: Find a babysitter and enjoy one (or two) of these date night ideas in Spartanburg.
Underpin Lanes N Lounge in Spartanburg: Check out the upscale boutique bowling alley in downtown Spartanburg
Places where kids can volunteer: We’re big fans of giving back to the community, so here are a bunch of ways your kids can volunteer in Spartanburg.
Shop at local stores in Spartanburg: You can also support our local community by shopping at some of the small businesses around town.
Make a craft at SPARK Space: Spartanburg County Library’s SPARK Space gives you an incredible opportunity to make crafts for super cheap.
Explore downtown Spartanburg with your kids with this list of things to do.
Sparkle City Mini Mutt: Play mini golf for free while you’re downtown!
Grab a new book and enjoy a cup of coffee: And while you’re at it, wander to Hub City Bookshop and Little River Coffee.
Visit The Children’s Museum of the Upstate’s location in downtown Spartanburg.
Take your tiny train lover to the Hub City Railroad Museum
Take a walk down the Mary Black Rail Trail
Visit Hatcher Gardens & Woodland Preserve

Caboose at the Hub City Museum in Spartanburg, SC — Hub City Museum

Seasonal Fun in Spartanburg, SC

You’ll find special seasonal events, festivals, and not-to-miss fun activities in our seasonal guides to Spartanburg.

Spartanburg, SC Christmas Tree Lighting — Spartanburg Tree Lighting

Dine Out in Spartanburg

Spartanburg Restaurant Guide: Want to find the perfect place to grab a bite to eat? No matter what type of cuisine you’re after or dining experience you’re looking for, you’ll find it here in the Spartanburg, SC Restaurant Guide.

Restaurants Where Kids Eat Free (or for cheap!) in Spartanburg: Check out some restaurants that offer deals on kids meals.

More restaurants in Spartanburg, SC, organized by category!

Schooling and Education Options in Spartanburg, SC

Private Schools near Spartanburg: Use our list to find the private school option that’s right for your family.

Preschools Near Spartanburg: There are a lot of preschool options near Spartanburg. Use our list to sort by location, hours and program offered.

Homeschooling in the Upstate: If you’re a homeschooling family in Spartanburg, you’ll want to bookmark this guide. It’s full of resources, classes, field trip opportunities and more.

Afterschool Care Near Spartanburg: Find the afterschool care your child needs in our Afterschool Care Guide.

Spartanburg Public Schools

Guide to Spartanburg School Districts: Find information for each of Spartanburg’s seven public school districts.

Spartanburg, SC Back to School Guide: Time for school to start? Here’s everything you need to know.

Spartanburg Schools News and Updates: Things at school can change pretty quickly. Find the newest updates from Spartanburg districts on our news page.

Celebrate a Birthday in Spartanburg

Birthday Guide: Where to Host a Birthday Party Near Spartanburg: Find the best place to host a birthday party in Spartanburg, SC

Here’s even more fun things to do near Greenville, SC!

Celebrate Mardi Gras Near Greenville, SC in 2025

Are you looking for ways to celebrate Mardi Gras in Greenville, SC this year? Whether you’re looking for places to pick up some festive Mardi Gras food and king cakes in Greenville, or you’re seeking a local Mardi Gras event near Greenville, we have all the information you need! So, use this list and pull off a fun Mardi Gras celebration with your family. The food, the sweets, all of it!

Be sure to check out Kidding Around’s calendar for more fun things to do in Greenville, SC & the Upstate!

This article includes:
What is Mardi Gras? See Mardi Gras New Orleans Celebrations
Mardi Gras Events Near Greenville, SC
Enjoy Cajun Food Near Greenville, SC
Where to Buy King Cakes Near Greenville, SC

(more…)

Sign Up Your Kids for Spring Break Camps: Greenville, SC and Spartanburg, SC

Are you looking for Spring Break Camps in Greenville or Spartanburg, SC for your kids? Greenville County Schools’ official spring break is March 17-21, 2025 with March 14th off as well. Spartanburg County districts will have their spring break April 7-11, 2025. Greenville and Spartanburg parents have their choice of a few local venues offering spring camps over the school break

Spring Break camps in Greenville and Spartanburg SC

Greenville Spring Break Camps

Spartanburg Spring Break Camps

Have a camp you want to add? Let us know if you want to be added to our Spring Break list!

Working parents need somewhere fun for their kids to go over the spring break school holiday.

Other parents want to take advantage of the extra time for fun by enrolling their kids in special camps that only happen over spring break. Either way, there are several exciting spring break camps in Greenville and Spartanburg.

Everything you need to know for spring in Greenville, SC

Looking for more fun this Spring in Greenville and Spartanburg? Here’s your Ultimate Guide to Spring in the Upstate!

Spring Break Camps: Greenville, SC

Looking for more things to do over spring break in Greenville? Here’s our guide to Greenville’s Spring Break with tons of things to do, day trips, and places to travel.

2025 Spring Break Camps: Greenville, SC

Yellowbobbypins Spring Break Camps

Half Day Art Camp: Squishmellow Adoption Party, Friday, March 14th, 2025.
Camps are $55/child.

Greenville County Rec Spring Break Camp

The Greenville County Rec community centers will be offering spring break camps!
March 17-21, 2025 – Monday through Friday 7:30 am – 6 pm.
Ages 5 – 11
$45 per child for Greenville County residents | $57 for non-residents
Camps will be at the following locations:
Brutontown
Mt. Pleasant
Slater Hall

South Carolina Children’s Theatre

Teacher Workday Workshop for kids on March 14th, 2025 from 9 am – 3 pm.
All camps are for ages K5- 5th grade. Workday Workshop is $60 per child.
Spring Break Camps TBD for 2025

Greenville YMCA Spring Break Camps

The Greenville YMCA centers will be offering spring break camps for children.
Ages: K5 – 8th grade
March 17-21, 2025 – Monday Through Friday 7:30 am – 6:00 pm
Daily rate cost: $50 for GVL-YMCA members | $65 for non-members
Weekly rate cost: $175-$220
Camps will be at the following locations:
Caine Halter Family Y
Eastside Family Y
George I. Theisen Family YMCA
Prisma Health Family YMCA branches

The Children’s Museum of the Upstate – Greenville

Campers will enjoy activities, crafts, and more while learning about all things spring— plant life cycles, pollination, flowers, and more! Each camp day is infused with STEAM-based learning and museum exploration. Ages are K5-5th grade, 9 am-12 pm.

Friday, March 14th, 2025, Kids Day Out at TCMU, 9 am – 4 pm. Registration is open.
2025 TCMU Spring Break Camps TBD

Carolina Elite Soccer Academy (CESA)

Have fun and train with CESA, the largest soccer club in the Upstate. All camps take place at the MeSA Soccer Complex and are for both boys and girls ages 6-13 years old. They don’t need to play for CESA teams to go to the camp.

March 17-21, 2025 – Monday – Friday either half-day (9 am – Noon) or full day (9 am – 3 pm)
$160 for half-day and $260 for full day. Prices go up $25 after 2/28.

Triple R Ranch

This horse farm in Simpsonville is offering Spring Break camp for ages 6-16 that includes riding lessons, stable care, and arts and crafts. Riders must bring a bagged lunch and change of clothes and wear long pants and shoes with a smooth sole like heeled boots.

March 17-20, 2025 – Monday – Thursday from 10 am – 2 pm
$285/person with a $85 deposit required to hold your child spot.

Motive School of Movement

March 17-21, 2025, 9 am to 4 pm, Ages 5 +
Half-Day, Full Day, Single Day, or Full Week options ranging from $65 to $395

Giggles Drop-in Childcare Pelham Road

March 17-21, 2025, 8-hour full-day camp
Full-day camp. Weekly rates and daily rates available ranging from $95 per day to $250 per week.

Roller Time Skating Academy Skate Camp

2025 Roller Time Spring Break Skate Camp TBD

Spring Break Horse Camp @ Sassy Stables

2025 Sassy Stables Spring Break Camp Dates TBD
Join Sassy Stables for a three-day horse camp. Camp is for ages 6 and older, and camp will focus on the basics of horse care, including general riding instruction, grooming and care, breeds and anatomy, saddling and equipment, feeding and handling, horseback games and crafts, live demonstrations from professionals and so much more! Registration will include a tshirt and entry to the end of camp conclusion “fun show”. Parents can register for March Break (Greenville County) or April Break (Spartanburg County) AM camp (8-11 AM) or the PM camp (12-3 PM).

Spring Break Camps in Spartanburg, SC

Are you looking for a Spartanburg spring break camp for your kids? Spring break for Spartanburg school districts is April 7-11, 2025. See our spring break camp list below and let us know if we missed one!

Looking for more things to do during spring break in Spartanburg? Here’s our list of 100 Things to Do Over Spring Break in Spartanburg, SC.

2025 Spring Break Camps in Spartanburg, SC

YMCA School’s Out Speci al

Offers full-day spring break camp for children 5 – 14 years old. The camp will be at the Middle Tyger Branch. Registration opens March 1st, 2025 and closes April 2nd, 2025.
April 7-11, 2025- Monday through Friday, 7 am – 6 pm.
Daily fee: $30 for members | $50 for non member.

Fine Arts Day Camp at Converse College

Day camp for ages 3 through rising 7th grade. The camp is offered for the full week, or you can choose to do drop-in days. Preregistration required.
April 7-11, 2025 – Monday through Friday, 7:30 am to 5:30 pm.
$240 for full week | $60 per day

Kickin’ Kids Spring Break Camp

Offers full-day martial arts spring break camp for children in grades 4K-8th grade. Includes field trips, martial arts lessons, and snacks.
April 7th-11th, 2025- Monday through Friday, 9 am – 4 pm.
$199 with a $30 registration fee (Second sibling discount available)

Spartanburg United Soccer Academy

Spartanburg United Soccer Academy will host a Spring Break Soccer Camp the week of April 7th-11th, 2025.
Registration: www.spartanburgunited.com
Time: 9am-12pm
Ages: 5-12 years old

Held in Boiling Springs, SC
Camp Shirt included
Daily snack included
Professional Coaches
Players grouped by level and age.

Are you planning on sending your kids to a spring break camp?

Time for fun!

Find lots more spring break fun in our Spring Break Guide.

9 Cheap Family Valentines Ideas for a Memorable Day

Looking for fun and inexpensive ways to celebrate Valentine’s Day as a family? We’ve got you covered with these cheap family Valentine’s ideas that won’t break the bank. Whether you’re looking to stay in or head out on an adventure, these affordable activities will help you create lasting memories without spending a lot.

cheap valentine's day ideas for your family

There are lots of ways to celebrate Valentine’s Day near Greenville!

#1 Have a Valentine’s party

Inspired by my 4-year-old, we’re going all in this year. My husband and I are planning a simple, fun celebration with cupcakes, balloons, and plenty of music. It doesn’t have to be anything fancy to be a hit—just gather your family, add a few decorations, and enjoy a low-key yet special time together. Whether it’s playing games, dancing, or just enjoying some sweet treats, hosting your own family Valentine’s Day party is a perfect way to make the day memorable without the fuss!

#2 Make Valentine’s cards

Skip the generic store-bought cards and get creative this year! Homemade cards are a fun way to show love, and you can go wild with all the glitter, glue, and markers. The kids will have a blast making personalized cards for their grandparents, classmates, and other special people in their lives. Not only does it make the cards extra meaningful, but it’s a great opportunity for the whole family to get crafty together!

#3 Have a Family Movie Night

Cozy up on the couch with blankets and pillows. Pop popcorn and watch a classic movie like, A Charlie Brown Valentine, or a family favorite. We will definitely have Lady & the Tramp in our rotation.

Want to actually go to the movies? Here are the movie theaters in Greenville, SC.

#4 – Family Dinner Date

Include the kids in your dinner plans! Dress everyone in their Sunday best and head out to an amazing restaurant. Just make sure your children are old enough to conduct themselves accordingly in a “fine dining” establishment. If not, dine at a kid-friendly eatery.

Check out these Kid-Friendly Spots: Best Places to Eat & Play in Greenville, SC

Here are Great Restaurants to Take Your Kids (That Aren’t Fast Food).

Don’t forget about our Kids Eat Free Directory.

Groupon offers a list of local restaurants that currently have discount deals that would be perfect for a family on Valentine’s Day!

#5 Bake Valentine’s Day Treats Together

Bake heart-shaped cookies, cupcakes, or even a Valentine’s Day cake as a family. This is a fun, affordable way to celebrate, and the best part is enjoying your creations afterward!

#6 DIY Valentine’s Day Crafts

Get creative with a DIY craft session! Gather some basic supplies and make fun Valentine’s Day crafts with your kids. From homemade cards to heart-shaped decorations, the possibilities are endless. For inspiration, check out our list of where kids can make art in Greenville to make this Valentine’s Day extra special.

#7 Picnic at a Local Park

Nothing beats a good old-fashioned picnic, and it’s one of the cheapest ways to enjoy Valentine’s Day together as a family. Pack a simple meal and head to one of Greenville’s lovely parks, such as Falls Park on the Reedy, where you can enjoy each other’s company and the beautiful surroundings. It’s a great way to spend quality time while being outdoors. Need other picnic spots? Here are the best places to have a picnic in Greenville.

#8 Family Game Night with a Valentine’s Twist

Who says Valentine’s Day has to be just for couples? Turn your game night into a festive Valentine’s celebration with themed games. You can create your own “Valentine’s Bingo” or “Cupid’s Scavenger Hunt” with simple materials from around the house. Want more family fun ideas? Check out our ultimate guide to the best family board games.

#9 Go on a Family Hike

For a fun and free adventure, why not head out for a family hike? Hiking is a perfect way to enjoy nature and spend quality time together, and Greenville has some fantastic trails to explore. Whether it’s a winter hike to see the peaceful beauty of the season or a stroll through one of the area’s scenic parks, it’s a great way to bond as a family. Check out our list of winter hikes around Greenville for some great options to enjoy the outdoors this Valentine’s Day.

Finally, make this a month of love. Find creative and fun was to share love with your family all month long. Whatever you decide to do, have fun!

13 Inexpensive Date Ideas for Greenville, SC

Are you looking for inexpensive date night ideas or cheap dates near Greenville, SC? Don’t worry. You don’t have to spend a ton of money to enjoy time with your loved one. Here is a list of inexpensive dates in Greenville.

Free and Cheap Date Ideas in Greenville, SC

Spending time together and planning fun dates don’t need to just happen around the biggest love Hallmark holiday. Dates nights can get pricey fast with dinner, a babysitter, and entertainment. But date nights don’t always have to be expensive or fancy. We can still keep the grown-up date night high on the priority list with creative and inexpensive date ideas.

Date ideas that won’t break the bank

There are tons of things that couples can do around the area that won’t wipe out the entire entertainment budget for the month, yet are great opportunities to spend quality time with your loved one and even try something new together.

Falls Park

Falls Park is the gem of downtown Greenville. A walk around this beautiful park, over the Liberty Bridge and along the river is romantic and the perfect opportunity to talk and hold hands and enjoy each other. Grab an ice cream or coffee from Spill the Beans near the bridge or pack a picnic, bundle up, and enjoy the treasured park.

Bike Ride on the Swamp Rabbit Trail

Either rent bikes or bring your own for a ride along the Swamp Rabbit Trail. Stop at the Swamp Rabbit Cafe for incredible baked goods, coffee or hot chocolate, or a tasty pizza made with all local ingredients.

Take a Hike

No, not that kind of hike – this is supposed to be a day to have fun with your partner. The Greenville and Spartanburg areas have numerous natural parks with dozens of hiking trails ranging from easy to intermediate to difficult. Pack a lunch and make your escape.

For even more hikes, see our complete guide to hikes near Greenville, SC,.

Or, check out Hatcher Gardens in Spartanburg. It’s totally free to visit and a fabulous place for a couple to walk and chat.

See a Planetarium Show

Tickets to Friday’s Starry Nights at the Roper Mountain Science Center are just $8/adult (or free if you’re a member!). This is a lot of fun to do together. Be sure to see the night sky at the Observatory afterwards.

Take a Stroll Downtown

If hiking isn’t your thing, consider a walk with more urban scenery. Downtown Greer is a fabulous place to take a walk, do a little window shopping, visit the park or grab a coffee.

Greer at Christmas — Downtown Greer, SC at night

Volunteer at a Soup Kitchen

Helping others together is not only a beautiful example to children but also a wonderful bonding experience and a way to remember your own blessings. Try Greer Soup Kitchen or any of the places on this list of places to volunteer in Greenville.

Have a Lunch Date

GVLtoday put together this great list of places to have lunch under $10 in Greenville. Plus, lunch is usually cheaper than dinner at most places.

See the Swamp Rabbits or Greenville Drive in Action

Taking in a live sporting event is always entertaining and a fun way to spend quality time together. Tickets to see the Greenville Swamp Rabbits play hockey or the Greenville Drive play baseball are pretty cheap and a great way to do date night.

Coffee/Hot Chocolate Date

Instead of going out for a pricey dinner, consider taking a couple of hours in the morning to relax with a great cup of coffee. Here is a list of some great coffee shops in the area (or go with hot chocolate if that’s your thing). A breakfast date is also a cheaper alternative to a dinner night out. Try Tandem Creperie in Travelers Rest for the best crepes ever.

See a sunrise

The sunrises at Pretty Place at YMCA Camp Greenville are incredible. Get up early and go see for yourself. Bring hot coffee and muffins to make it extra special. Be sure to check the chapel’s calendar before you go to make sure there aren’t any private events.

Go Get a Drink

Grabbing your favorite drink with your significant other in a cozy setting can be reminiscent of those first months of dating. Southern Growl in Greer has an extensive craft beer list and incredible food.

First Fridays

The art scene for First Friday events is vibrant in downtown Greenville, the Village of West Greenville, and Taylors Mill, where patrons can roam from gallery to gallery for free and enjoy the art.

Check out Some Art

The Greenville County Museum of Art is always free. They are open Wednesday-Sunday. They also have special events that are often free so check their website before heading out.

Try Discount Ticket Sites

Groupon and Living Social are great sites for finding inexpensive tickets to area attractions. There are tons of restaurants, events, and activities that are offered for discounted prices on these types of sites that could make for inexpensive date nights.

Looking for more fun date night ideas? Here’s your ultimate guide to date night in Greenville, SC!

RELATED ARTICLE: 10 Romantic Dates in Greenville

Do you have a great idea for an inexpensive date night to share with us?

20+ Greenville, SC Tours You Don’t Want to Miss

Looking to explore the Upstate? Why not go on one of the many tours in Greenville, SC? Learn about the history and architecture of Greenville. Ignite your taste buds and inner foodie by going on a culinary tour. Explore the mountains, trails, and waters through a nature tour. There’s something for everyone. And because there are so many Greenville tours, we’ve rounded up some of the best for you… all in one place.

History Tours

Greenville History Tours

Greenville History Tours offers a variety of historic tours.

West End Walking Tour begins at Falls Park and explores Greenville’s West End, including the ruins of an 1816 grist mill, Huguenot Mill, Riverplace, and more.

Duration: 1 hour
Cost: $18 for 11 years and older and $9 for 10 years old and younger

Historic Neighborhood Architecture explores the different neighborhoods in downtown Greenville, including the current downtown condos, Pettigru, Augusta Road, Mills Mill village, and more.

Duration: 1.5 hours
Cost: $25 for all ages

Greenville Driving Tour is a great way to experience more of Greenville. This is a great option for those looking to relocate to Greenville!

Duration: 1 hour
Cost: $20 per person in a Greenville History Tour-supplied 15-passenger van

A Photographic Journey of Old Greenville allows you to look at Greenville’s evolution through photos, maps, drawings, and paintings as you ride in a 13-passenger van. You’ll be able to see the changes from the vantage point of of where they were taken.

Duration: 1-1.5 hours
Cost: $20

Get Acquainted with Greenville Main Street Tour and Meet Up is a great way to learn about the essential stories and history of Main Street and how it became what it is today.

Duration: 1.5 hours
Cost: $18 for adults

Textile Mill & Village Tour: Early Years takes you on a driving tour through 8 of the mills that helped make Greenville so renowned for its textile mills.

Duration: 2 hours
Cost: $29 for adults

Greer, SC History

Learn about the former residents of Greer, SC- some who may have never left- on the Greer Ghost tour. Several tours are offered near Halloween annually.

Here’s our Kidding Around Review of the Greer Ghost Tours, from the Greer History Museum.

Greenville Foodie Tours

Chef's Table tour — At the Chef’s Table Tour

Greenville History Tours Culinary Options

Greenville History Tours offers several different culinary and foodie tours.

Greenville BBQ Trail Tour takes you on a drive to visit (and taste) some of the best BBQ around! Locations visited include Bucky’s Bar-B-Q, Henry’s Smokehouse, and Mike & Jeff’s BBQ.

Duration: 2 hours
Cost: $55 for all ages
Want to try some other local barbecue? Here are our reader’s favorite BBQ joints in Greenville.

At the Chef’s Table (Tuesday and Saturday) is one of the more popular food tours and takes place on Tuesdays and Thursdays. These are walking tours where you get to taste food from some of the best restaurants in Greenville, talk to the chef, and learn about drink pairings. The Tuesday night version usually includes Nose Dive, Soby’s, The Lazy Goat, and Spill the Beans. The Saturday night version usually includes Nose Dive, Soby’s, CAMP, and The Lazy Goat.

Duration: 2.5-3 hours
Cost: $65 (Tuesdays) and $79 (Saturdays)
Check out our Kidding Around Review of At the Chef’s Table

The Carolina Countryside Tour allows you to drive through the upstate on a Sunday afternoon, exploring the beauty of the local farms, vineyards, pioneer homes, mountains, waterfalls, and more. Locations include Aunt Sue’s Country Corner or Hester General Store, Table Rock Tea Farm, Core 450 Restaurant, and three different mountain view overlooks of Table Rock.

Duration: 5 hours
Cost: $75

Greenville Breakfast Tour is a way to experience breakfast 3 times in one day! Current locations include Southern Pressed Juicery, Biscuit Head, and Papi’s Tacos or Le Petit Croissant.

Duration: 1.5-1.75 hours
Cost: $55
Read Kidding Around’s Review of the Greenville Breakfast Tour

Greenville Coffee Tour is for the coffee lovers. There are several local roasters and coffee shops, and this tour will take you on tasting and learning experience. The tour includes a rotating choice of three local coffee shops.

Duration: 1.5 hours
Cost: $55
Here are 25 fantastic local coffee shops near Greenville!

New Restaurants of the Upstate helps highlight some of the newer restaurants in Greenville. This tour itinerary changes regularly to keep up with the many new restaurants in Greenville.

Duration: 2-2.5 hours
Cost: $69

Foothill Foodie Tours

Foothill Foodie Tours offers a variety of food tours in the Upstate.

Thirsty Thursday Tour is a walking tour that allows you to experience new cocktail combinations and carefully paired appetizers. Includes 4 full size cocktails and 4 full size appetizers. Must be 21 years old to attend.

Duration: 2 hours
Cost: starts at $89

Just Desserts is a Saturday-afternoon walking tour to experience some of Greenville’s best desserts. Locations include The Westin Poinsett, Maestro, and Crepe du Jour.

Duration: 2 hours
Cost: $65

Date Night Cocktails is a Friday-evening walking tour that’s perfect for date night or a night out with friends. It includes 4 full-sized cocktails and 4 full-sized appetizers. Locations include Sassafras Southern Bistro, Crepe du Jour, and Maestro.

Duration: 2 hours
Cost: $89

Craft Cocktail Tour is a Saturday-evening walking tour to four different locations for specialty cocktails and appetizers. The tour begins at Bon Jour on Main and continues to Sassafras Southern Bistro, Scoundrel, and Maestro.

Duration: 2 hours
Cost: $89

Breakfast Tour is a Saturday morning walking tour that allows you to experience not one, but THREE full breakfasts! Locations include Spoonbread inside the Westin Poinsett, Bon Jour on Main, and Roost.

Duration: 2 hours
Cost: begins at $65

Six & Twenty

Six & Twenty Distillery Tours give you an opportunity to see the science of distilling spirits. They offer both private and public tours.

Duration: 1 hour
Cost: $20-30

Vicario Farm Tours

Vicario Tasting Room and Farm Tours allow you to experience the farm, greenhouse, and processing facility of Renato Vicario and Janette Wesley. Their family operates two farms – one in Italy near Cortona, and one in Greer, behind their micro-distillery! You’ll learn a lot about the science of making liqueur during your tour.

Duration: 1.5 hours+
Cost: $15 per person

The Brewery Experience

The Brewery Experience offers two Private Brewery Tours in Greenville:

Afternoon Delight is a three-stop driving tour that plays off a parody of Forrest Gump. The 12-passenger van will take you to Liability Brewing, Thomas Creek, and The 8th State Brewing Co. Birds Fly South and Carolina Bauernhaus can be included by requests for groups.
- Duration: 2.5 hours
- Cost: $64 per person
Twilight Tour is a three-stop driving tour that also plays off a parody of Forrest Gump. You’ll ride in a 12-passenger van and visit Tetrad Brewing, Liability, and The 8th State Brewing co. Thomas Creek Brewery, Birds Fly South, and Carolina Bauernhaus are available by request for groups.
- Duration: 3.5 hours
- Cost: $64 per person

Family-Focused Tours

Greenville Explorers: Family Tour is a family-friendly tour that allows you to explore downtown Greenville in a fun, educational way. The tour includes a scavenger hunt, a stop a the Mast General Store’s candy area, quick history lessons, and more!

Boar on the World Explorers Tour of Greenville, SC

Read Kidding Around’s Review

World Explorers Downtown Family Tour

Outdoor Nature Tours in Greenville, SC

Jocassee Lake Tours

Jocassee Lake Tours offers a large variety of tours, both public and private, for you to explore all that Jocassee has to offer. Some of their tours include:

Lake Tours during the Warm Season
- Duration: 3-4 hours
- Cost: starting at $55 for all ages
Private Lake Tours during the Warm Season
- Duration: 3-6 hours
- Cost: starting at $395 for all ages, up to 12 people per boat
Kayak Tours
- Duration: 6 hours
- Cost: Starting at $125 per person, ages 10+
Private Fishing Tours
- Duration: 4-6 hours
- Cost: $395 for the four-hour tour, $595 for the 6 hour tour
Sunset Lake Tours
- Duration: 2 hours
- Cost: starting at $55 for all ages
Full Moon Rising Tour
- Duration: 2 hours
- Cost: starting at $55 per person for all ages, but great for adults!
Private Sunset Tour
- Duration: 2 hours
- Cost: starting at $395

Kidding Around Loves Lake Jocassee! See why!

Heading to Jocasee with the kids? Here’s your guide to visiting Lake Jocassee with your family.

Paris Mountain Ranger Hikes

Paris Mountain State Park offers guided ranger hikes for families, giving everyone a chance to learn about the animals and insects that inhabit the park.

We did a ranger-guided hike at Paris Mountain and it was awesome!

Find out more in our article on Paris Mountain State Park!

BMW Tour

BMW Glimpse Tour gives you a “glimpse” into the BMW plant process. Tour participants get to see the metal finish area and the paint shop area.

Duration: 1 hour
Cost: $10 for adults (21+), $8 for students 12-20

Segway Tours

Greenville Glides Segway Tours offers several different options:

West End & Falls Park Segway Tours lets you ride through downtown Greenville, the West End, and Falls Park.
- Duration: 1.5-2 hours
- Cost: starting at $69
Haunted Segway Tour explores the haunted walkways of Springwood Cemetery and various other haunted locations along the Reedy River.
- Duration: 1.5 hours
- Cost: starting at $70
Taste & Glide Segway Tour lets you experience some of the best places to grab a bite to eat in downtown Greenville.
- Duration: 2.5 hours
- Cost: starting at $80
NEW: Check out their Rydables Tours where you can literally ride a unicorn down Main Street.

Check out our review of the Rydables experience with Greenville Glides.

Swamp Rabbit Trail Tours

Reedy Rides

Reedy Rides offers a few bike tours along the Swamp Rabbit Trail.

Swamp Rabbit Trail Tour goes from downtown Greenville to the Swamp Rabbit Cafe and Grocery.

Duration: 2 hours
Cost: $65 per person

Swamp Rabbit Trail to Furman University Bike Tour lets you explore the Swamp Rabbit Trail from downtown Greenville all the way to Furman University.

Duration: 3 hours
Cost: $90 per person

Swamp Rabbit Trail to Travelers Rest Bike Tour uses electric assist bikes to get you from downtown Greenville to Travelers Rest, where you’ll grab a quick bite to eat before heading back to Greenville.

Duration: 3 hours
Cost: $105 per person

Furman University along Swamp Rabbit Trail

Here’s your guide to the entire Swamp Rabbit Trail.

What tour are you going to experience next?

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Don’t miss our Visitors Guide to Greenville, SC!

Looking for more things to do in Greenville? Here are 50+ fun things to do with your day!

Dad Review: Mountain Play Lodge

Need a new place to play indoors? It’s cold out and the playground might not be an option, so check out Mountain Play Lodge in Arden, North Carolina. It’s only about an hour’s drive from Greenville and would make a fun family day!

Spend a day in WNC – and be sure to check out our guide with day trip ideas for Western North Carolina!