Wondering what in the world you’re going to do to fill your days this summer when you feel like you’ll melt? Kidding Around’s Kristina put together this list of things to do when it’s hot in Greenville! Her list includes everything from what to do inside to fun activities (like eating ice cream) that will keep you cool.
Things to Do in Greenville When it’s Hot Outside
- Create Art (Indoors): Here’s Where!
- Visit the Children’s Museum of the Upstate
- Eat the best ice cream in Greenville
- Go bowling for FREE!
- Go Swimming!
- Go to the movies for just a few dollars
- Make something at ReCraft
- Play games at Upstate Pinball Arcade
- Do some summer reading
- Visit a natural swimming hole
- See some stars at Roper Mountain or your own backyard
- Visit Roper Mountain
For more things to do in the summer see our Ultimate Guide to Summer in Greenville.
It’s not an exaggeration to feel like you’re melting on these hot, summer days in the Upstate. Your clothes soak with sweat minutes after you step outside. Air conditioning is the only thing you can think about. Your kids are all sweaty and gross as they demand a trip to the playground. Nope, nope, nope.
While we do have an awesome guide of indoor activities, which you should totally check out, here are 10 things to do in Greenville when it’s just too darn hot to do anything but sit in front of a giant fan.
Create Art (Indoors)
There are so many great places to hang out and create art inside. Our favorites are TReehouse Cafe and TR Makers Co. Here’s a list of 13 places where kids can create art in Greenville.
The Children’s Museum of the Upstate
These are the days when your Children’s Museum of the Upstate membership can really pay off. Go for an hour or two and play with any exhibit the kids want and then go home. Your membership also includes access to the TCMU of Spartanburg, which has some awesome exhibits for babies through age 5.
Cold Sweet Treats
The hotter it is, the better a cold dessert tastes – and there is no shortage of ice cream, milkshake, and snow cone places in Greenville. Our readers have opinions on where to find the best ice cream and milkshakes. Or, go on a snow cone tour!
Bowl for Free
Kids bowl free all summer for two games a day at select bowling alleys in the Upstate. All you have to do is sign up.
Take a Swim
Greenville has three water parks run by Greenville Rec and there is another one not far in Duncan. There are also free splash pads where you can cool off when it’s boiling outside. The Upstate is also home to numerous recreational lakes. Here are some places you can swim in Greenville, including reviews on water parks and splash pads. Additionally, there are several neighborhood pools that offer memberships to the public.
Enjoy a Movie
Cheap summer movies are back! We’ve got a list of theaters offering family-friendly films for as little as a $2. Or don’t go anywhere. Turn up the AC and chill out with a rented movie from the library, Redbox, or browse your favorite streaming service for something that will hold the family’s attention.
Make Something from Recycled Materials
Go to ReCraft and let the creative juices flow (in air conditioning). Check out why this place is super cool and fun for kids and adults of any age.
Play Old School Arcade Games
Head to the Upstate Pinball & Arcade Museum in Simpsonville for some old school fun.
Summer Reading
Browse the stacks, reserve some books or check out some library e-books. Get started on any one of several summer reading programs.
Swimming Holes
Lakes, creeks, natural slides, and waterfall pools are all pretty awesome ideas for when it’s just too hot to do anything. Grab some towels, snacks, sunscreen, and your GPS and get going. Here are 20 local swimming holes you can enjoy near the Upstate.
Gaze at the Stars
The planetarium at Roper Mountain Science Center is blissfully cool and has some awesome shows during their Friday Starry Night shows. Reserve your tickets online since they are fairly popular. Shows are at 4:30 pm, 6 pm and 8 pm.
Check out Dinosaurs or Discover Something New
Summer Adventure at Roper Mountain Science Center is happening Tuesday – Saturdays from 10 am – 4 pm. While their Living History Farm, Dinosaur Adventure Trail, and Wildwood play area are outdoors, they have several exhibits indoors like Harrison Hall, where you can pet a stingray or sea star!
Play Inside
Indoor playgrounds are a great place for kids to get some energy out when its just too hot to be outside. You don’t have to worry about hats, sunscreen, or playground equipment that’s too hot to touch in an airconditioned play space!
What’s your go-to activity that helps beat the heat?