Planning a trip to Cape Canaveral, Florida? There are so many things to do that are out of this world! The Space Coast of Florida, famous for being the home base of NASA, has so much more to offer families who travel there. Kayaking thru a galaxy sounds insane, but we have the details of how your family can experience that and other unique things during a visit to the Space Coast of Florida.
Planning a trip for apple picking at Jeter Mountain Farm? This gorgeous farm hosts weddings, has seasonal u-pick flowers, fruits, and more plus an enormous indoor play area.
The views from the parking lot of Jeter Mountain Farm are sweeping shots of the nearby mountains, open space, and a beautiful building that seems to fit right into the landscape with its earthy hues of brown and green. The farm is a welcoming spot for families that has nearly two dozen varieties of apples, cider, live music, a wagon ride, and lots of other activities to enjoy.
If you’re trying to figure out a great vacation for your family that is within a few hours of the Upstate, has plenty of entertainment within walking distance, and is located directly on the ocean, the Westgate Myrtle Beach Oceanfront Resort may be just the ticket.
Kristina visited the resort for a couple of days with her kids at the invitation of the Westgate and has all you need to know to plan a wonderful trip to the coast!
If you’re planning a trip to Charleston, SC and need something a little out of the ordinary to do and satiate your adventurous family, we’ve got just the place at the Charleston Aqua Park! Kristina tried it out and has all the details for our readers.
Media tickets were provided for this reviewbut the opinion is completely that of the author.
I love anything adventurous as do my kids so when we had the opportunity to try out the floating obstacle course and first-ever ropes course over water in the country at the Charleston Aqua Park, I was one hundred percent on board. My kids and I love to watch “American Ninja Warrior” and old re-runs of the hilarious show “Wipeout” so we wanted to see how good we’d be at anything remotely like either of those shows.
Spoiler alert: we have a whole new respect for people who do obstacles over water and slide around on water obstacles!
So if you’re in the Charleston area or anywhere nearby and want something fun and unique to do over the summer months, the Charleston Aqua Park is your place.
As of July 2023, the new Buc-ee’s in Sevierville, TN, just three hours from Greenville, SC, is the largest in the world and it’s incredible. Kristina took the plunge and visited this massive beaver wonderland and has all the details. Thanks to Visit Sevierville for inviting us to experience their beautiful town!
I’ve been a Buc-ee’s fan for several years having been introduced to the amazing wonder that is the massive gas station/shopping haven/jerky and fudge operation when I’ve traveled to Texas where the original Buc-ee’s started. The largest one in the world opened just three hours from Greenville, SC in Sevierville, TN and I could not wait to go. I was counting down the days till my next Buc-ee’s experience and it did not disappoint.
Sign in front of Sevierville, TN Buc-ee’s
About Buc-ee’s
The original Buc-ee’s popped up in 1982 in Clute, Texas and the cute little beaver with buck teeth became the mascot for the gas station convenience store. But everything is bigger in Texas, and Buc-ee’s is no exception. In 2003, the brand started to expand and hasn’t stopped. It’s long since been a destination for travelers.
They are probably the most famous for their endless flavors of beef jerky, made in-house, and their Beaver Nugget snacks. I have no idea what they are but people love them. I happen to really enjoy their brisket sandwiches, fudge, and jerky. Everything is pretty awesome there though and you can’t go wrong stopping in.
One thing that Buc-ee’s always gets high praise for is their spacious, clean restrooms. It felt like there were dozens of stalls in the bathroom. Everything was perfectly clean and there was no waiting in line for the women’s restroom, a big win in my book. Plus, clean bathrooms are always a win.
Buc-ee’s: Sevierville, TN
The new location in Sevierville, Tennessee of Buc-ee’s defies all imagination. Whatever you think it will look like, think bigger. Much bigger.
The Buc-ee’s in Sevier County opened Monday, June 26, 2023, off Interstate 40 as the largest travel center and Buc-ee’s location.
There are 120 gas pumps and the gas there was cheaper by far, like 15 cents a gallon at least, than anywhere else on our drive from Greenville to Tennessee.
The car wash is 250 feet long. That’s a little less than 100 feet short of a football field.
The retail space is a whopping 74,000 square feet and it’s truly a sight to behold. Don’t be ashamed if you don’t know where to go first when you walk into Buc-ee’s in Sevierville. It’s ok, a friendly Buc-ee’s employee will greet you and help you out if needed. Everyone at Buc-ee’s is ridiculously nice and kind and they look like they are having a blast working there. They literally do cheers at registers. I don’t know what for but it’s fun.
Chopping up brisket
From the lady who was making the fudge to the guy cutting up the brisket to the woman who helped us get into a fitting room to try on Buc-ee’s shorts and bathing suits, everyone was so awesome and nice.
Buc-ee’s is known for paying their employees well and posts all around the store and outside that they are looking for help and what their pay scale is. They start pay at $17/hour at the Sevierville location.
One of the neat things about Buc-ee’s in Sevierville is that it is part of a larger project called the 407: Gateway to the Smokies, a plan put in place by the Eastern Band of Cherokees to convert 200 acres into a tourist destination and entertainment facility. Ground was broken in 2020 and Buc-ee’s is the first major retailer to set up shop.
What you can buy at Buc-ee’s
Really, the question is what can’t you buy at Buc-ee’s? Need some snorkeling gear? They have it. Need glassware or a cutting board? They have it. Need a cozy set of pajamas? They have it.
Need a lunch box or cooler? They have it. Need hunting gear? They have it. Need toys for Christmas? They have them. Need shoes or bathing suits or flannel shirts or hats? They have all of that. Need tea towels and jewelry and lavender-scented pillow spray? They’ve got those.
Buc-ee’s Cutting Board
Plan to spend some significant time here to look through all the cool stuff they have. It’s truly a lot of fun.
The food at the store is also really, really tasty. You’re gonna want to risk it for the brisket here. Fun fact: Eight-time world BBQ champion Randy Pauly is the director of barbecue at Buc-ee’s. He extensively trains staff on how to make the brisket just right.
They also have an assortment of chicken and club sandwiches, pulled pork sandwiches, and subs. You can get banana pudding, cookie dough balls, or key lime pie cups for dessert.
Definitely don’t miss their bakery and homemade fudge section, which is enormous, as is everything at Buc-ee’s. They make their fudge right in front of you and it’s very tempting not to buy as much as you can carry.
How to Find Buc-ee’s in Sevierville
You’ll start seeing billboards for Buc-ee’s about 90 miles away when you drive from the Upstate. It’s a great motivator to skip bathroom breaks and make a beeline for the beaver. Buc-ee’s is right off of I-40 West at exit 407.
There is so much to see and do at Buc-ee’s that you’ll probably want to make a return trip before you head home. We encourage all the trips to Buc-ee’s that you feel you need to make.
If you love to travel, North Carolina has so much adventure to offer! North Carolina is a popular place for both day trips, vacations, and backcountry exploration. From the lush and adventurous mountains of the west to the stunning coastline and Outer Banks of the east, there is so much to do in North Carolina.
If you’re planning a trip up to North Carolina, we’ve got some great information on places to stay, where to eat, and things to do.
If you’re traveling to WNC for a day trip or weekend getaway, you’ll find this information handy. We’ve organized some helpful content by city, so you’ll be able to easily find reader-recommended things to do, places to eat, and lodging advice. Enjoy your trip!
Asheville is a popular destination for many of our readers and is nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. With a thriving art scene, delicious and unique food options, and a beautiful downtown to explore, no wonder Asheville is consistently named on top travel lists throughout the country. Our helpful guides below offer information to make planning your trip to Asheville a breeze.
Check out our Guide to Asheville for reviews on our favorite things to do in the area, plus some really fantastic places to eat. Lots of these places are recommended by our readers and we’ve included their quotes, so you know what to expect!
Though Flat Rock, NC has become heavily associated with the famous poet Carl Sandburg, there is so much natural beauty, food, and exploration to enjoy. For more great things to do, check out A Day in Flat Rock or look over our reviews of popular places in Flat Rock below.
Brevard, North Carolina is a cozy little area of NC tucked away at the entrance of the Pisgah National Forest near the SC border. Dining, river tubing, waterfalls, and a hunt for the white squirrels that populate much of the city make Brevard, NC a perfect day trip destination.
Check out our reviews of some of the fun things to do in Brevard below.
Hendersonville is a gem of WNC destinations, and it’s less than an hour’s drive from Greenville! Home to many u-pick orchards, snow tubing centers, and vineyards, activities in Hendersonville will pill your entire day’s itinerary. Don’t miss our list of Free Things to Do in Hendersonville, NC! You can find reviews of some of the best Hendersonville has to offer below.
Cherokee, North Carolina is rich in both history and culture while complemented by spectacular views of the Great Smoky Mountains! If you haven’t visited national parks in a while, Cherokee makes for a easy day trip to one.
This is the place to go if you are looking for a mountain adventure where you can delve into the history of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. Maybe you will even see some Elk crossing the Oconaluftee River during your visit!
Check out some of our reviews of Cherokee, North Carolina below.
Check out of KA review of Cherokee, NC, and learn why it is such a great place to spend the day with your kids.
Blowing Rock
Blowing Rock is home to Tweetsie Railroad, one of North Carolina’s oldest wild-west themed amusement parks. You can find out all about Tweetsie Railroad in our review below. You can also visit a mile high swinging bridge while you are in Highlands of North Carolina at Grandfather Mountain!
Considered the “Jewel on the Blue Ridge Parkway”, Little Switzerland, North Carolina is the perfect stopping place when traveling between North Carolina and Tennessee. Check out our review of Emerald Village in Little Switzerland below.
If you love to travel, North Carolina has in gem hidden in the mountains called Cashiers, NC. Loaded with Waterfalls, river tubing, and beachy lakes, the Highlands area is the perfect place to unwind while taking in spectacular views. We have reviews of some of the best things to do in Cashiers below.
Bryson City is an adorable little getaway town in Western North Carolina that is home to the Smoky Mountain Railroad! The downtown area offers shopping, dining, and the rich history of WNC without the touristy vibes of some of the larger cities. Plus, you are right at the door of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, so you know it’s gorgeous there.
Tryon, North Carolina is a small town that borders South Carolina just above Landrum and is home to one of the country’s largest Equestrian centers. You can check out more information in our review below!
Saluda, North Carolina offers an abundance of spectaular wilderness and is only 50 minutes from Greenville. You can check out our review of one of Saluda’s most popular hikes (with a spectacular waterfall as a prize). If you love river tubing, be sure to check out the excellent tubing adventure on the Green River!
You can explore the picturesque historic downtown of Rutherfordton North Carolina during your visit to Hendersonville, its neighboring city. While you’re there, be sure to visit their amazing interactive children’s museum! You can find our review below.
If you love a mountain adventure that also involves hiking, a gorgeous mountain lake, and a sandy beach with waterslides, then the Chimney Rock and Lake Lure area of Western North Carolina is where to go!
Looking for places to hike throughout the Upstate and Western North Carolina? Check out our Ultimate Guide to Hiking to find that perfect trail to spend the day!
Central North Carolina
For those who love to explore and travel, North Carolina offer the central region with big cities and lots to do. The Central region of North Carolina includes cities such as Charlotte and Concord. With big cities comes lots of adventures to behold! Below you will find organized content that will help you plan the perfect trip to the Queen City and cities surrounding the Charlotte Metro area, including places to eat, things to do, and awesome places to stay.
Charlotte / Concord
The Queen City is the largest city in North Carolina. With excellent dining experiences, sporting events, the NASCAR Hall of Fame, and one of the largest amusement parks on the east coast, Charlotte is a world-renowned destination. There are also epic places like the U.S. National Whitewater Center to take your older kids for an amazing day trip!
You will find tons of information in our Ultimate Guide to Charlotte, as well as reviews of Charlotte and Concord area adventures below.
Gastonia, North Carolina is just south of Charlotte and offers a great day trip destination for those looking to get away for a few hours without burning through an entire tank of gas. Check out our list of Top 10 Things to do in Gastonia, NC, and find reviews of a natural history museum in Gastonia that’s worth the trip below.
When you are looking to travel, North Carolina has beaches galore! Plus, many of the beaches offer excellent things to do, tons of history, and even some unique qualities you may not find anywhere else (I am looking at your Outer Banks).
Surf City
Located near Wilmington on Topsail Island off the coast of North Carolina, Surf City is a quaint and quiet beach town perfect for families with small children. The town is walkable, with small shops and local restaurants to enjoy after a day at the beach. There is even a turtle rehabilitation center you can visit. You can read our review of Surf City, North Carolina to see some of what this beach town has to offer!
Surf City, North Carolina
Carolina Beach
Carolina Beach, North Carolina is an excellent option for a family-friendly beach vacation. This beach is less crowded than some other beaches but offers fun entertainment such as an amusement park on the boardwalk. You can read our Carolina Beach review to find some great ideas for dining and entertainment to plan the perfect beach getaway!
The Boardwalk at Carolina Beach, North Carolina
Outer Banks
The Outer Banks is absolutely stunning! Located off the northern coast of North Carolina, this 175-mile-long strip of barrier island offers quaint beach towns, humongous sand dunes (including the tallest living sand dune!), wild horses, watersports, historical lighthouses, and so much more!
Plus, Outer Banks beaches are wonderful for an adventure, including the stunning beaches in the Cape Lookout National Seashore on the southern park of the barrier islands.
Check out our review of the Outer Banks, including popular destinations along the island’s coast such as Nags Head, Kitty Hawk, and Kill Devil Hill.
Kite Flying at Jockey’s Ridge State Park
What is your favorite destination in the spectacular state of North Carolina?
Always up for an adventure?
Check out our KA Travel Guide, with dozens of ideas for the best kid-friendly places to visit during your next trip!
Some More Places to Visit in North Carolina
Ultimate Guide to Visiting the Biltmore in Asheville, NC with Kids
26+ Fun Day Trips for Spring
Play with Goats and Hike at Carl Sandburg’s Historic Home in Flat Rock, NC
Take Your Family on a High-Speed Adventure at ZMAX Dragway in Concord, NC
Snow Tubing at Zip ‘N Slip in Mars Hill, NC Delivers Fast, Wintry Fun
Winchester Creek Farm: Meet Alpacas and Feed Mini-Horses at This Farm
Thinking about visiting the Chattanooga Zoo on your family vacation to Chattanooga, TN? If you are looking for a travel destination away from the tourist-heavy beach and a place with tons to do and see, you should check out Chattanooga, TN. We have everything you need to know about the Chattanooga Zoo and everything you need to know before your family trip there.
Nestled in the WNC town of Hayesville, NC lies the Magical Mountain Resort, a whimsical and fun world where fairy tales come to life in cottages set in a forest and along a mountain stream. If you want to add a little magic to your trip, this is the place to do it in Hayesville, NC.
I’ve always enjoyed the whimsical aspect of stories – enchanted forests, drinks that make you grow tall or shrink to fit through minuscule doors, exaggerated characters like the Queen of Hearts, time travel, and gigantic mushrooms and flowers. All of that and so much more greets you at Magical Mountain Resort in Hayesville, North Carolina, just a two-and-a-half-hour drive from Greenville. Plus, it is a great location any time of year! Our most recent visit was in February, and it was wonderful.
About Magical Mountain Resort
Set in 11 acres that back up to Nantahala National Forest, the Magical Mountain Resort has multiple options for lodging, some of which are still in progress. The owner, Shannon, bought the property after selling investment properties in Florida. She moved the day after Hurricane Ian hit and looked for properties with cabins on them in the woods.
Once she bought the property in Hayesville, North Carolina, she set to making her whimsical fairy tale dreams a reality. And $1.5 million later, she’s well on her way.
I’ve met a lot of creative and innovative people in my life but Shannon ranks pretty high on that list. I was floored at the intricate details that are the hallmark of the property. Literally, no detail was overlooked from the giant mushrooms at the entrance to the property to the glow-in-the-dark teacups high in the trees next to the cottages to the hand-painted and hand-carved signs that tell you where to go around the resort. And that’s just on the outside. Wait till you see what’s inside all the cabins!
Sometimes I think that when one seeks to make their dreams a reality when it comes to fairy tales, it can come off as overdone and cheesy. Not this place. When you visit Magical Mountain Resort, you’re leaving your life behind for the time you’re there and get to step into a world that makes it easy to get caught up in the details of another time and place.
Places to Stay at Magical Mountain Resort
At the time of this writing, there are four cottages and one bus to stay at: Alice’s White Bunny Cottage, Alice’s Queen Cottage, the Caretakers Cabin, the Snow White Cottage, and the MidKnight Buss. All have bathrooms and kitchens. The Snow White cottage is the smallest and the Caretakers Cabin is the largest. During our first trip, we stayed in Alice’s White Bunny Cottage, which was amazing. I’ll get to that in a minute. We had the opportunity to stay in Alice’s Queen Cottage as well more recently, and the attention to detail was stunning!
New in 2024, there are now an additional 5 RV slips available! The pull-in spots are perfectly situation along the creek, so you’ll have the wonderful sound of the water flowing while you camp. Each slip has a picnic table creekside, and a small firepit, and is close to the family-friendly area where your kids can play giant chess, create a fairy mini world in the fairy garden, or relax in the hammocks strung amongst the trees.
Keep in mind that the resort only opened mid-May 2023 so some construction is still ongoing and some of the lodgings are not quite ready. I’ll tell you what’s open and what isn’t. However, as of February 2024, the candy cottages are almost near completion, and they are looking truly magical!
Stay in a Bus
Shannon is a collector of very interesting items at Magical Mountain. The double-decker bus on the property, the MidKnight Bus, she has outfitted into a Harry Potter-inspired stay was once owned by Disney way back in the 1950s. The history of it alone is worth its own story but the short version is just that this bus is really darn cool. It is decked out with three beds on the lower level, stained glass windows, a kitchen, bathroom, and a lounge area. There’s a magical fire pit outside plus a deck and chairs to relax at while you contemplate how cool you are that you get to stay there.
Shannon has three other buses she is either currently renovating or that she’s expecting to be shipped in, including a Magic Schoolhouse bus!
Stay in a Candy House
Remember the game, Candyland? Shannon has outfitted two cabins to look like they belong in that game. Both of them are not ready for visitors yet but we got to see them in progress and they are adorable. I felt like Hansel and Gretel coming up on the enchanted candy cabin in the woods (thankfully no witches here that eat kids).
The outside has steps that look like gumdrops, gingerbread people that greet you, and lollipops that you can see from the front steps. These are camper cabins and will not have bathrooms but they do have a mini-fridge, and microwave, and are outfitted with heat and air conditioning. The resort is currently building a dalmation-themed bathhouse that should open around the same time that the cabins are available.
Stay at Alice’s White Rabbit Cottage
While I got to see most of the accommodations at the resort, we stayed at Alice’s White Rabbit cottage, based on Alice in Wonderland. From the moment you see the pink house with white railings, glass flowers, teacups and teapots in the flowerbeds, and a hand-carved front door, you will absolutely forget you’re in the real world.
The cottage is outfitted with a small kitchen, full bath, queen-sized bed up in the loft, and a pink leather pullout bed on the bottom floor. The light fixture has teacups on it and all the plates and cookware are the same color pink as the house. The coffee pot and tea kettle are pink and the bathroom has a white rabbit painted on the pink toilet seat while there’s a pink clawfoot tub if you want to enjoy a soak.
Outside, you’ll have your own private porch with flowers that have faces from the movie: the Cheshire Cat, the white rabbit, and the Queen of Hearts. While you enjoy the babbling stream right in front of the cabin, your kids can color or enjoy a snack at the glass table and pink and white bouncy chairs.
At night, the trees behind the cottage light up purple, and the tea cups suspended in the branches glow in the dark. Solar lights line the pathway to the door and the flowers also light up.
No detail was overlooked whatsoever. I have zero knack for design or creativity when it comes to decorating and I’d never ever come up with something as neat as this place.
Alice’s Queen Cottage
Much of the same amenities are available in the Queen’s Cottage as in the White Rabbit Cottage, except the decor is stunningly royal! Lots of red and black take over the theme, even to the tiniest details. The clawfoot bathtub was stunning! Our family of four was able to sleep cozy in the cabin, with my oldest daughter and I taking the queen bed in the loft, while my husband and two-year-old slept on the pullout sofa downstairs.
It was so much fun exploring both the inside and outside of the cabin to see all of the neat things we could find. Around the perimeter of the cottage, there are lots of trinkets, glowing flowers, delightful seating by the creek, and lots of hidden gems to find.
Bring your Own RV or Tent
Magical Mountain Resort has five RV slips available. Campers who want to use a tent are welcome to book those sites and just camp out in the field if they like as well. However, the bathhouse is not yet completed but there is a porta-potty on site. The RV slips have a wonderful location along the creek side, close to the fire pits, and right near the hammocks and fairy garden for kids to play at.
Things to do at Magical Mountain Resort
While there are lots of things to do in the area, you won’t run out of fun activities at the resort. These are all located right next to the creek and just a short walk from the Queen and White Bunny cottages.
Relax in a hammock
There are multiple hammocks on the property along the creek, which is just so nice. You can relax in a big hammock that was handwoven in Nicaragua and listen to the creek, read a book, or just chill out while your kids play nearby.
Swings and Fishing
There are a few swings and swinging benches also along the creek, including a baby swing. Again, just another invitation to enjoy the serene setting!
Shannon also has fish bait and a fishing rod that you can use to try your luck at catching trout in the stream.
Lifesize chess and lawn games
There’s a life-size chess game that you’re welcome to play while you visit the resort. Shannon can tell you how to play if you don’t know how. They also have checkers, corn hole, and croquet.
Play in the creek
You’re welcome to get in the creek to cool off. Most of it is really shallow and some parts are maybe hip deep, which is perfect for bringing tubes and getting wet in the chilly water.
Roast s’mores with magic fire
Thanks to our neighbors who started a roaring bonfire and thanks to our other neighbors who had kids the same age as my kids and who brought stuff to make s’mores, we all enjoyed pretty awesome s’mores the night we stayed at the resort. It was so much fun! Shannon leaves guests with a packet of magic fire dust that you throw on the fire and which turns the flames blue. See? No detail was overlooked.
Make it a weekend trip: Things to do Near Magical Mountain Resort
One of the reasons I really liked Shannon is that she does all the things that she recommends to her guests (like us!). I’ve spent some time in that area and have done a lot of cool stuff, which I mention here, but Shannon has made it a point to explore the area and do things that she thinks her guests will love, so I’ve listed those as well.
Marina Station Water Park
Readers know how much my kids and I love inflatable aqua parks. Well, there’s one just 23 minutes from Magical Mountain at the Marina Station on Lake Chatuge. It’s $18/person for an hour of fun. We did this on the way home from Magical Mountain and had a blast. It was the perfect thing to do to cool off and you can hang out afterward at the little beach or go to town for some lunch.
Andrews Valley Rail Tours
I have not done this one but Shannon has and it looks super fun and unique. Andrews Valley Rail Tours takes visitors along a 10-mile trek through beautiful scenery, including a hand-carved tunnel from the late 1800s and railroad bridges – all on a railbike! Guests must be at least 4 years old and tours are currently $49.95/person and last for two-and-a-half hours.
Hiking
There are some great trails nearby, including beautiful hikes to incredible overlooks at Bell Mountain (32 minutes away) and Brasstown Bald (40 minutes away), both of which are amazing for sunrise and sunset. Less than a half hour away is Leatherwood Falls, a great spot for a picnic and splash in the falls. It’s less than a mile roundtrip. Pickens Nose is a favorite of mine (watch the kids though – steep rocks at the overlooks) because the views are outrageously gorgeous and the total hike is less than two miles. It’s about an hour from Magical Mountain.
Helen, Georgia & Blairsville, Georgia
This quirky and adorable Bavarian-themed town is a favorite of our readers. There’s a lot to do all year round. See our story on Helen, Georgia for ideas. And the cute little town of Blairsville, Georgia is only a 30-minute drive from Magical Mountain. There are some fun things to do in Blairsville as well!
On the drive home
During the summer, you can easily stop at Bull Sluice on the Chattooga River on the way home. There’s a little beach along the river and you can take a dip or hang out. If you go upstream just a little ways on the paved trail, you can watch the rafters take on the rapids.
Also during the summer, if you want to take the northern route back home to Greenville, you can stop at Cashiers Sliding Rock. It’s a really fun natural waterslide with a sandy beach. There’s no fee but also not much parking. You can also stop at Dry Falls and Bridal Veil Falls, both roadside waterfalls that you can walk behind which we think are beautiful.
Overall Mom Review of Our Adventures in Wonderland
I’d love to go back to Magical Mountain Resorts for several reasons:
The place is just really cool with all the details that make it so fun and enchanting
I loved the play areas that make it easy to relax and have fun with your family
The location is ideal for outdoor fun and adventure
The resort is super family-friendly, and kids will love exploring all the little things!
The field behind the cottage had lots of fireflies and my daughters, who met friends their age right next door when we stayed there, went and caught the little bugs. It was one of those idyllic experiences that I was hoping my own kids would have as I did in my own childhood.
And when our neighbors at the queen cottage next door introduced themselves the evening we were there, it became such an eventful and fun night. My daughters and their granddaughters painted rocks, roasted s’mores together, lit sparklers, tried out the magic fire dust, took all kinds of hilarious photos around the property, and really enjoyed each other’s company. The whole experience was just unforgettable.
My daughters and I just had such a delightful time at Magical Mountain and I especially appreciated the massive effort that went into creating the experience by Shannon. It was one pleasant surprise after another while staying there and something that my kids will certainly remember with joy.
Booking Your Stay Down the Rabbit Hole
It’s easy to book your stay at Magical Mountain Resort as all the properties are listed in AirBnB. Look at the Magical Mountain website though first and see which stay is best and go from there.
The entire property is dog-friendly. You’ll definitely meet Shannon’s loveable and playful golden doodles, Molly and Charlie, while you’re there. Molly took to guarding my girls while they played chess and it was adorable.
If you’re looking for a place to get away in the mountains that is just a touch magical and that will leave your family with lasting, amazing memories, Magical Mountain Resort is the place to go.
Looking for more fun, themed places to stay? Here’s our list of fantasty vacation themed rentals that include Star Wars, Harry Potter, Lord of the Rings, and more!
If you are planning a family vacation to the SC coast, a stellar beach to visit is Isle of Palms. Things to do at IOP near Charleston are endless. Isle of Palms is convenient, family-friendly, and fun. You can even make a fun day trip out of it! She shares all the information that you need, including things to do, where to eat, and how much parking costs if you’re just planning a quick day trip at this local South Carolina beach.
About Isle of Palms
Recently my family traveled to Charleston to spend the day at Isle of Palms. Yes, you read that right – we went for the day. Isle of Palms is completely doable as a day trip. It’s perfect if you’re like me and live on a budget but long to breathe in the salt air.
Let me tell you, I was so impressed. There’s a quaint beachfront road lined with restaurants and shops. The shops are your typical beach shops filled with t-shirts, trinkets, and every size/shape boogie board to hit the market. You know, the kind of shops full of souvenirs found only on the coast.
There are also plenty of unique places to eat, a wonderful and clean beach, and fun shops to explore!
Isle of Palms: Things to Do With Your Family
Hang out at the Beach
One of the best things to do while in town is to head to the beach. The beach at IOP is flat, and there is plenty of room, even during high tide. The boys had a great time with boogie and skimboards. You can also spend the day looking for seashells, building sandcastles, or just enjoying the sounds of the Atlantic Ocean. You can occasionally catch live music right by the dunes!
South Carolina’s crazy weather pattern has created a more hazardous environment for swimmers, so always be cautious of rip tides. In the midst of your family fun, make sure to keep an eye on the colored flag at the lifeguard stand.
Big Family Day Trip Tip: Isle of Palms County Park
If you park at Isle of Palms County Park, you’ll have restrooms, outdoor showers, and changing rooms available to you. This is a big deal when you’ll have 3 hour plus ride back home!
The beach can get pretty crowded, especially on Saturday, so plan to get there early in the day if you want a large space on the beach to set up camp. If you are in need of chair and umbrella rentals, there is a company for that! You can rent surfboards, bikes, chairs, and umbrellas from IOP Beach Chair Co. They even rent accessible beach wheelchairs.
You’ll also find rentals for chairs, umbrellas and boogie boards available at a cart by the restrooms at Isle of Palms County Park.
Bonus tip: There is a Harris Teeter across the street from Isle of Palms park. It’s a good place to stop before the beach to load up on snacks, fruit, or even some pre-made sandwiches. You’ll save some money here over restaurants and beach carts!
Grab Some Delicious Seafood
There’s certainly no shortage of food choices. Whether you enjoy live music and seafood, or you’re looking for some good ol’ American burgers and fries, you will find a delicious meal at Isle of Palms. One of the most popular places is Acme Lowcountry Kitchen. They have mostly seafood options and use fresh and local ingredients, which would make for a great dinner after a long day on the beach. They also have a pretty decent kids’ menu, which is always a plus.
If you are looking for something delicious right off Ocean Boulevard, then Smugglers Island Eats and Raw Bar will hit the spot. They pride themselves on a family-friendly atmosphere with a casual vibe. Smugglers, of course, offers seafood like fried shrimp baskets but also has smash burgers and vegetarian options if you want something else. Their frozen daiquiris are delicious by the way!
One of the most popular beach restaurants in IOP is Coconut Joe’s Beach Grill. They have lots of seafood dishes like crabcakes and shrimp and grits that are delicious, but they also have burgers and sandwiches. The restaurant is located by the ocean on Ocean Boulevard and offers a rooftop bar for patrons to enjoy a delicious cocktail while taking in the sunset over the Atlantic Ocean.
Take a Barrier Island Ecotour
If you are a nature lover, then going on an ecology tour of the waterways and marshes near IOP would be a perfect addition to your trip. Barrier Island Eco Tours has public tours that are guided by a naturalist and include boat excursions, dolphin tours, an exploration of Capers Island, and more. You are certain to see lots of sealife on your excursion, and it is a wonderful way to learn more about the SC coast while also having a blast. The company offers public trips, private charters, school trips, and special events throughout the year.
Isle of Palms Beach Parking
The beachfront Isle of Palms County Park offers great parking, snack bars, restrooms, and beach access. Admission prices vary depending on the season but car prices do not exceed $15 during the week, and $20 on Saturday. If Saturday is your only option for travel, you’ll want to get an early start. The County Park lot will fill up, I promise. I’m speaking from experience.
Parking on the street is an option, but the spaces are limited on the weekends. There are electronic pay-boxes along the sidewalk, so make sure to have a card handy (it’s inexpensive). We lucked out with a spot on the street directly in front of beach access with a clean bathhouse.
Between the County Park and plenty of public beach access, you can’t go wrong with a trip to the Isle of Palms. Whether you are renting a home, having a day trip, staying at Wild Dunes Resort, or vacationing at one of the few hotels in town, you are certain to find your Isle of Palms vacation worthwhile.
Visit the Isle of Palms website for more information on where to eat, what to do, and where to stay if you need more than a day trip.
Find a Place to Stay in Isle of Palms
Use the map below to find the perfect place to stay in Isle of Palms. Kidding Around earns when you book through these links through an affiliate relationship with Stay 22.
What’s your favorite thing to do when visiting the Isle of Palms?
If you are looking for a family beach that also has a lot of fun things to do, Carolina Beach in North Carolina is an excellent choice! KAG contributor Jennifer and her family checked out Carolina Beach at Pleasure Island and found it to be the perfect mix of family entertainment and beach fun.
Read all about what made this beach town a hit for her family and why your own may want to visit soon!
What makes Carolina Beach special?
My family recently headed up the North Carolina coast and discovered Carolina Beach. Located approximately five hours from the Upstate, Carolina Beach makes the perfect beach destination for summer vacations.
This popular NC beach is an excellent choice if you are looking for a family-friendly beach. How you choose to take a beach trip is a personal preference. Some families like to go to beaches like Myrtle Beach, with many entertainment options and crowds, whereas others prefer quieter beaches with fewer entertainment options.
This beach fits right in the middle of these categories. It has plenty of things to do with the whole family, such as the Boardwalk amusement park; however, it is not as crowded as other beach destinations. Plus, with tons of vacation rentals, you can choose to stay closer to the Boardwalk where the action happens, or you can stay further away from the crowds.
The Boardwalk at Carolina Beach, NC
The standout feature of Carolina Beach is the Boardwalk. It is one of the few true boardwalks on the East Coast. And I don’t mean just a simple pier. This is a true boardwalk with amusement park rides, a Ferris wheel, shops, restaurants, and entertainment. The boardwalk comes alive in the evenings, so be prepared to spend lots of time there after lounging on the beach daily.
Carolina Beach Has A Family-Friendly Shoreline
Another big plus for Carolina Beach is its family-friendly shoreline. Unlike more isolated beaches, the beach has several lifeguard stands along its three miles of shoreline. With ever-changing currents and hesitant swimmers, I always feel safer knowing there are lifeguards nearby.
Additionally, Carolina Beach is wheelchair accessible. Directly off the Carolina Beach Boardwalk, there are accessible walkways making it accessible to those in wheelchairs or families with an extra set of wheels.
Worthwhile Things to Do: Carolina Beach
On top of the fun standard beach attractions, such as mini golf, my family absolutely loved visiting the nearby North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher. Fort Fisher State Recreation Site is only ten minutes from Carolina Beach, and visiting the aquarium is a must! The North Carolina Aquarium has several hands-on exhibits, plenty of marine life to observe, and even a fantastic playground.
But, that’s not all! The North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher also has an amazing dinosaur exhibit. The animatronic dinosaurs are placed naturally throughout a shaded walkway making their appearance seem realistic. My kids loved seeing the dinos up close – especially the one dinosaur that sprayed them with water.
Outdoor Adventures
While you are visiting the aquarium at Fort Fisher, be sure to check out the Fort Fisher State Recreation Area, where you can hike, explore the dunes, and maybe even see Loggerhead turtles nesting (from a distance, of course!)
You can also head south to the Fort Fisher State Historic Site at Kure Beach, a civil war site that makes a great educational lesson while you’re vacationing. There are guided tours to take, exhibits to view, and an impressive fort.
If you’re feeling up to an outdoor adventure during your beach trip, check out Carolina Beach State Park, where your family can hike, bike, and even camp if you’re up for it! Fun fact: the state park is home to the Venus Flytrap, so you can teach your kids about this near-carnivorous plant while you venture through the coastal park. There is also a 50-foot sand dune, Sugarloaf Dune, that will have them in awe.
If you’re wanting to stay close to town, the Carolina Beach Lake Park is a wonderful lake to spend an afternoon kayaking, have a picnic, or let your kids burn off some energy at the playground. There are also free outdoor movies on Sunday evenings, perfect after a long day on the beach.
Delicious Eats Near the Beach
Of course, we couldn’t spend time exploring Carolina Beach without sampling some of the most popular restaurants. We tried out Hang Ten Grill after hearing about its popularity. After eating there for lunch, we understood why so many people headed in that direction! Hang Ten Grill is a typical beach restaurant with surfboards decorating the walls – and even the ceilings.
The menu has plenty of seafood and grilled favorites. I had a shrimp burger, and it was delicious! But, it was the kid’s menu that sold it. My son had a hamburger, and my daughter had nachos – and each came with an ice cream sundae!
The restaurant regularly has live music, food and drink specials, and events like yoga and coffee. Check out the Hang Ten Grill Facebook page to see what events are happening while visiting the area.
Some additional restaurants you may like to check out with stellar reviews include SeaWitch Cafe and Tiki Bar for live music, Cape Fear Boil Company to satiate your seafood craving, and Kate’s Pancake House for a delicious breakfast! If you are into craft brews, Good Hops Brewery is a highly recommended local brewery that is located in the heart of this beach city!
For those families looking for a beach that is quintessentially beachy, then head to Carolina Beach. With the lively boardwalk, the beautiful shoreline, and pastel-colored beach houses, it screams “Summertime Fun!”
