7 Weeknight Outings for Teens to Try This School Year

Have a few hours after school but unsure how to spend them? Local teen Brylan put together this list of school night outings that are perfect for teens. Whether you have one night without homework or many free evenings, you’ll find an idea or two that just might be exactly what you need this school year!

Also, check out our huge list of things to do with teens and our list of gift ideas for teens!

I’m completely able to relate to the desire to get out of the house and do something, but have little to no options for reasonable activities that will have me back home and in bed so I can get a full eight hours of sleep. Believe it or not, there are indeed some fun things you can do with friends or alone on a school night.

Weeknight things to do for teens near Greenville, SC

Swing Dancing at Upstate Swing

One of my personal favorites, every Wednesday night Upstate Swing hosts a swing dancing lesson from 7 pm – 8 pm and then has a night of dancing from 8 pm – 10 pm. It’s a great way to meet more people and such a fun way to set the tone for the rest of the week! Here’s the Upstate Swing link with details.

Hit the mall

Haywood Mall closes at 9 pm, ensuring that you’ll be back at home at a reasonable time. Maybe it’s just me, but shopping helps me clear my head even if I don’t purchase anything.

Get some outdoor time at a local park

Having an hour or so of exercise in places like Cleveland Park will help you clear your mind and feel great before enduring school the next day. The Swamp Rabbit Trail runs through Cleveland Park to Downtown Greenville.

Get a part-time job

If you find yourself nearly dying of boredom on a regular basis consider applying for a part-time job around town to fill up your schedule and make some extra money! See my article on part-time jobs for teens in Greenville here.

Visit a school athletic event

Check the news for the upcoming sports events and support your school! Most school calendars include athletic games so check your school, or visit another school.

Spare Time Entertainment

This arcade/bowling alley/laser tag/escape room haven is super fun for students! Grab some friends and visit! Keep in mind that you have to book an escape room ahead of time.

Go Climbing

There are several places in Greenville where you can harness up and go indoor rock climbing. It’s a great way to get your body moving so you can get a good night’s sleep or focus on homework. Some gyms even offer high school student climb nights. Check out these indoor climbing gyms near Greenville.

While the options for school night activities are few and far between, there are some reasonable mid-week activities that will help you get your mind off school for just long enough to feel refreshed and like you have a life outside of school and homework. If you find a night of freedom, take a step back from the chaos and enjoy an evening without stress. You never know when you’ll get another one.

Activities for Teens Near Me: Greenville, SC

Find more things to do for teens in Greenville, SC

Do you have a favorite weeknight activity? Share it with us in the comments!

Denver Downs is the One Farm To Put On Your Don’t Miss List This Fall

If you adore fall, you may be planning a visit to a local farm with activities your whole family will love. One of our favorite farms is Denver Downs Farm, which offers a six acre corn maze, jumping pillows, zip lines, and much more. We have all the details of the activities they offer this season! The 2025 season begins September 26, 2025 – November 9th, 2025.

Thank you to Denver Downs Farm for sponsoring this article.

The Corn Maze at Denver Downs

Things to Do at Denver Downs

Plan Your Visit to Denver Downs

11 Reasons to Visit Denver Downs

As summer gives way to fall and the weather turns a little cooler, I can’t hide my excitement for my absolute favorite time of year. I love sweater weather, boots, and the leaves changing to vibrant yellows and reds. But most of all, I look forward to this time of year more than ever because there is just so much to do that every weekend becomes an adventure.

One particular place that I cannot wait to mark on my calendar during fall is trekking to Denver Downs Farm in Anderson. If you’ve never been, read on because you’ll want to plan your visit just as much as I do.

About Denver Downs Farm

Denver Downs is currently a 250-acre agri-tourism farm, which means they are a working farm but invite people who are interested in learning about the farm. It also means they host really cool events like their annual Fall Festival, which features their nationally-recognized pumpkin patch, corn maze, live music, bonfires, pig races, and Pie Eating Contests.

The farm was started as a cotton farm in the late 1800s and then transitioned to a dairy farm. It was successful, with a milking herd of over 300 Holstein cows at one point, but then the dairy cows were sold in the mid-90s and the farm transitioned to row crops, produce, and beef cattle farming. Mrs. Garrison started giving tours of the farm back when the farm was a dairy farm in the 1960s, around 2001 a corn maze was planted and that launched their next venture into seasonal agriculture tourism!

The Corn Maze at Denver Downs

The first time I heard about Denver Downs was when I was told that the largest corn maze in the Southeast part of the United States was at this farm. Growing up in New Jersey, we didn’t exactly have enormous corn fields to run through, so I was immediately intrigued. Plus, I really wanted to imagine some big-time baseball stars coming out of cornfields (thank you “Field of Dreams”).

Although I’ve yet to see Babe Ruth make an appearance, the corn maze is enormous with 6 acres of corn stalks and paths. It’s also really easy to get lost in, which is certainly half the entertainment – as long as you are willing to let a toddler lead the way.

The Garrison Family, who have owned and operated the farm since 1869, make the corn maze a lot of fun by putting up checkpoints throughout, where maze-goers can use their smartphones to scan the numbers and track their time. We were in the maze for about 15 minutes and only came across one number. If you don’t have kids, have at it.

Fun fact: Their corn maze is so awesome that they were named the 7th best Corn Maze in the entire country by USA Today in 2023, their seventh time making this list. This year the pumpkin patch is making national news with the Pumpkin Patch being Listed among the 10 Best in the US by USA Today.

The Activities

When you walk into the farm, at first glance it doesn’t look huge. You think you can almost see all of the activities with a quick scan but wow, you are mistaken. There is so much to do, at least a day’s worth of fun. I’ve gotten smarter each time I go and pack more food and water because we stay all day long, literally five to eight hours at least. And we still don’t even get to all of the activities they have.

There is a giant open barn full of hay with rope swings where kids can swing and then jump into the hay. Raise your hand if you want to be the adult in line with the kids? Yes, that was me too and it was a blast.

Kristina on a zipline at Denver Downs in Anderson, SC

The list of activities is long including:

zip line
massive mega mountain tube slide
giant tricycles
pig derby
ropes course
sensory sandboxes
two giant jumping pillows
corn hole
tractor tire playground
gem mining
petting zoo
barnyard activities
human foosball
mini-farm house perfect for little kids to play in
swings made from tires that look like horses
spider web climb
arcade that consists of areas where you can test your basketball, baseball and football throwing skills
cow train and lots more.

Each year they add some new attractions. Find the full list of activities on the farm.

On the educational side, there are exhibits of crops and signs about how the crops are grown, and how the maze is made.

In addition to more than 35 barnyard activities, they also have a big pumpkin patch, bonfire pits, farm animals, live music, tons of carnival food options, kettle corn, and funnel cake.

Awesome Tube Slide & Jumping Pillows

The farm has expanded every year to add more activities and my favorite expansion so far was in 2022 with the addition of the mega slide.

Denver Downs will again have its massive mega slide, Slide Mountain! I got to try it out and oh my gosh, it was awesome! You can go as fast as 35 mph and there’s even a bridge above to watch people slide down. This is easily one of the most popular activities at the farm.

The expanded jumping pillow area is surrounded by a fence & includes two giant jumping pillows. It’s huge. The pillows are for older and younger kids, which I think is pretty smart, as long I can still go and jump because yup, I’m a big kid at heart.

Pumpkin Light Maze

In 2023, the farm added a new Pumpkin Lights Trail, complete with a pumpkin princess carriage. There is a singing pumpkin light show, carved pumpkin displays, giant candy corn, giant spider webs, and a trail that guests can walk through for a neat experience. It’s right next to the pumpkin patch (of course). It also has lights at night so you can select a pumpkin in the evening if you missed out during the daylight.

You’ll also love it during the day as there are several places to take fun photos and even sit inside the pumpkin carriage. Bring your crown!

11 Reasons to Visit Denver Downs Farm: Parent Review

11: Enjoy being a kid with your kids.

All of the barnyard activities – the jumping pillows, slides, rock walls, games, swinging from ropes – bring out the kid in me. Denver Downs is a place I can just play with my kids. And it’s a lot of fun for all of us!

10: It’s an opportunity to support a local farm.

Denver Downs is a family-run farm that first opened in the late 1800s. By supporting the farm, you are extending that heritage in our region and are able to be a part of history.

9: There are often baby animals, including my favorite: baby goats.

If there are baby goats anywhere, you should go. Or baby animals. They make anyone smile.

8: The music is fantastic.

Music at entertainment venues for families is sometimes just background noise. That’s not the case at Denver Downs. The solo acts throughout the weekend and Saturday night live bands are awesome. You’ll want to hang out and listen by the bonfires.

7: The pig derby is adorable.

Being from the north, I didn’t know pig racing was a thing until I went to Denver Downs. And now I’m the one in the front row cheering on the little guys as they race to get their treats.

6: Go through the corn maze and check off a national bucket list item.

The Denver Downs six-acre corn maze has received national accolades and landed on the USA Today’s 10 Best Readers Choice list seven times! And this year, they are listed in the top 10 Best Pumpkin Patches! It’s the only farm in the state to make theses lists.

5: The fresh squeezed lemonade, Cider Slushies and kettle corn are super tasty.

If you’re going to get lemonade, make sure it’s fresh-squeezed because it’s totally worth it. Plus the Apple Cider Slushies and the kettle corn are delicious. They’ve also got several adult beverages (think Fall Frose!).

4: Adults have just as much fun as kids.

Denver Downs isn’t just for kids – all the barnyard activities can be enjoyed by adults, too. You bet I’ve raced around on the little tricycles and swung on the ropes in the barn and ridden the zipline.

3: You can leave and come back all day and evening.

Many places don’t allow guests to leave and come back, essentially forcing them to purchase not-so-cheap eats at the location. While the farm has reasonable food for purchase, they allow guests to leave and come back the same day. You can bring a picnic for the parking area, or visit one of the many local restaurants and return back to the farm. We usually tailgate out in the parking lot for lunch before heading back in for round two of fun.

2: With over 35 activities and entertainment, the ticket prices include a lot for one price.

Some families will look at the ticket price per person and say that’s not cheap. However, for the number of available activities, it’s reasonable! Other farms and events, like carnivals, you pay individually for each attraction like $5 for a hayride, another $5 for the jumping pillow, $3 for the swing ride and so on. And that’s just for one time on each activity.

At Denver Downs, the ticket price covers all activities PLUS you can do them as many times as you like! The entertainment schedule is packed with live music, pig races, lighted pumpkin trail lights show, and the candy cannon, which you won’t want to miss!

1: It’s one of the best places in the area to make lasting family memories.

Like I said at the beginning of this list, my family makes going to Denver Downs a priority every fall and we look forward to it all year long because we just have so much fun together. It’s quality time that is so precious in today’s busy world, which is just priceless.

Planning Your Visit to Denver Downs

Denver Downs Fall Festival, which includes the corn maze, pumpkin patch, and plenty of family-friendly activities, is open from September 26th to November 9th, 2025, Friday, Saturdays, and Sundays.

Hours vary, visit the Denver Downs Calendar for up-to-date information.

2025 All Day Admission is $26.95 per person online plus tax. Flash sale tickets are $19.95 (Pre-sale tickets are 15% off through 9/25). There is also a modest online purchasing fee of less than $2, and credit card fee. Children aged 2 and under are free.

Though it may seem pricey at first glance, the tickets are well worth the cost. You get a stamp on your hand, which allows you to leave and reenter the same day. The ticket price includes all the attractions except concessions, pumpkins, and pick-your-own flowers are extra.

Things to Know: Tips from Parents Visiting Denver Downs

Pets on leash are allowed but expect to pay about $10 per pet for them to enter.
There are port-a-potty bathrooms as well as an enclosed nursing station and changing table area.
My family goes and makes a day out of it. Food selections include barbecue plates, hot dogs, all beef cheeseburgers, and tacos. Special Festival Treats include of course: Fresh Popped Kettle Corn, Fresh Squeezed Lemonade, Funnel Cakes, S’mores, Cotton Candy, Apple Cider Slushies, Fall Frose, and more.
Bring water (water bottles allowed), sunscreen, and snacks since it can still be quite warm that time of year. With all the running around and playing, it does get exhausting. My preschool-age daughter actually fell asleep on one of the tire horse swings the first time we went.

Admission includes activities like:

Finding your way through the 6-acre corn maze
Jumbo Jumping Pillow
Cow Train
Animal Races
Little Farmer’s Corral
Climbing Wall
Giant Slide
Zip Line
Tug-0h-war
Dodge Ball
Farmin Foosball
Straw Barn Play Area
Corn Boxes
Spider Web Climb
Mini-Maze
Giant Tricycles
Bonfires & Live Music

For more information, visit www.denverdownsfarm.com or head straight there: 1515 Denver Road, Anderson!

Check out our KA Guide to Fall, with over 30 fun places to go and things to do this season near Greenville, SC!

Events on Our Calendar at Denver Downs Farm

Current Month

fri07nov5:00 pmfri10:00 pmDenver Downs Fall Festival5:00 pm - 10:00 pm(GMT-05:00) Denver Downs Farm, 1515 Denver Downs RoadPrice:27+

You Can Salsa Dance Under the Stars in Greenville, SC

Did you know that you could take free lessons in Salsa dancing in Greenville, SC. Local mom Kristina shares her favorite places to Salsa dance in Greenville, the perfect romantic date night. You can even dance under the stars!

Salsa dancing is quite close to my heart, and it’s pretty awesome that we can do it in Greenville, SC! Despite my current last name, I have zero Latin blood in me, but rather I’m the typical American mix of European ancestry, ones that arguably aren’t known for their superb dancing styles.

So when I had the chance to take salsa dancing lessons back when I lived near Washington, DC, I jumped at the opportunity. I had seen a beautiful couple at the bar/restaurant where the lessons occurred, twirling, laughing, and swaying their hips with the Latin beats. I wanted to be that girl, and I wanted to learn how to dance like that.

And I did.

Salsa dancing at Salsa at Sunset in Downtown Greenville, South Carolina — Salsa dancing at Camperdown Plaza

This was before marriage and kids, so I had time to go several times a week to lessons and dancing. But I got more out of it than I ever expected. I met my husband during one of those early classes. He had been taking lessons for a few months and easily impressed me. We went dancing together for nearly three years before we started dating and then got married.

We don’t go as often as we’d like to now, but when I heard about dancing salsa in the plaza at the Peace Center last summer, I got a babysitter and made plans to go. After all, when does the chance come up to dance under the stars? Not often enough.

Salsa at Sunset

On Fridays throughout the summer, Upstate International hosts the amazing Salsa at Sunset event at Camperdown Plaza in downtown Greenville. It’s a free outdoor event that features free group salsa lessons, a live band that plays salsa, merengue, and bachata (other Latin dance styles), and a beer and wine cash bar.

The event is family-friendly as well. We saw lots of kids there getting their groove on. There were dancers of every age and ability.

All of the events are from 6 pm to 10 pm and include free dance lessons and lots of dancing. The free dance lessons start around 6:15, so we recommend it if you want to learn before taking the dance floor.

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In my experience of Latin dancing, it really doesn’t matter your age or ability or anything else you’re nervous about, and that may be holding you back. Everyone just wants to have fun.

Dancing is a great equalizer. Most dancers are patient and eager to teach and learn. Dancing is a wonderful activity to let your body take over and move with the music, and give your brain a break from doing any thinking. It’s relaxing and a great date activity.

Other Places for Salsa Dancing: Greenville, SC

Greenville has an active little salsa dancing community.

Salsa Greenville regularly hosts salsa dancing events at local clubs and organizations. Many of these events come along with fun themes, like Bachata Under the Stars and Pasion Thursdays. Social Latitude regularly hosts events with Salsa Greenville called Salsa Latitude on the 1st Saturday of each month.

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What to Wear and Other Questions

For women, a shoe with a smooth bottom and a heel not more than two inches is preferable (tennis shoes aren’t the best because they stick to the floor, but I’ve seen women wear them and do fine). I usually get my shoes at this website, which is so fun, but I’ve also danced in regular shoes I’ve bought at some big box discount store. At Salsa at Sunset, I usually just use sneakers, and it’s fine.

Dresses are enjoyable to wear, but just be sure they either don’t fly all the way up when you spin or wear shorts underneath. Be comfortable because you’ll be moving around a lot.

For men, shoes with smooth bottoms are ideal as well. And just dress comfortably.

You don’t need a partner for lessons. You rotate around and get to dance with everyone there, so it’s not necessary to come with anyone.

Give it a shot – you may just love it.

Have you ever tried salsa dancing?

For more date night ideas, see our full Date Night Guide to Greenville, SC.

Enjoy a Movie! See This List of FREE Outdoor Movies: Greenville, SC

Did you know you can watch free movies outdoors near Greenville, SC? Are you wondering, “Where are all the free outdoor movies near me?” You are in luck because there are several parks and towns that offer free outdoor movies throughout summer and fall, including Greer, Spartanburg, Travelers Rest, and Downtown Greenville. Here’s your full schedule of free outdoor movies in Upstate, SC as well as what titles will be available.

Greer Moonlight Movies (summer) Schedule

Summer Outdoor Movies in Greenville

Fidelity Moonlight Movies at Falls Park (fall) Schedule

Mauldin Cultural Center Movies (fall) Schedule

Remember that these events are subject to weather, so check the Facebook page of the venue close to the movie date. Also, especially for extremely popular choices, you will want to be sure to arrive early.

You’ll love these summer movie deals near Greenville, SC at your local theatre!

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Outdoor Music and Free Concerts: Greenville, SC

Love some family-friendly outdoor music and free concerts? Greenville, SC sure does! Especially in the summer, Greenville and the surrounding areas host a number of free outdoor (and sometimes indoor) concerts. These concerts provide a great way to enjoy time as a family or couple while keeping expenses down. This list includes a wide variety of concerts.

There are so many free and cheap things to do this summer near Greenville, SC!

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Amazing Discoveries at Roper Mountain Science Center in Greenville, SC

The Roper Mountain Science Center in Greenville, SC is easily one of the coolest places you can visit in town. They have an astounding array of hands-on activities, exhibits, and even a dinosaur trail. Read on to learn all you need to know to visit.

Thank you to Roper Mountain Science Center for sponsoring this article.

Have you explored the Roper Mountain Science Center in Greenville, SC? You may have heard the name of the Roper Mountain Science Center and wondered what in the world this is or maybe your kids attended a field trip there. But really, do you know how cool this place is?

With a dinosaur trail, a living history farm, a Marine Ecology lab, and active classrooms you can explore, you can visit multiple times and find something new and exciting at each visit! Plus, RMSC has the only planetarium in Greenville, SC and a giant 23” refractor telescope that you can look through during special events. It doesn’t get much cooler than that!

Looking for more things to do near Greenville, SC? We’ve got you!

RMSC is part of the Greenville County School system and during the week they host classes for science exhibits and hands-on learning for the public school system. However, they have greatly expanded their offerings and hours for the general public in the last several years and there several wonderful opportunities to explore this gem in Greenville. Every season offers something new and exciting at the RMSC.

What is at Roper Mountain Science Center?

The Roper Mountain Science Center is absolutely the place to go for STEM activities in Greenville, SC that are fun and engaging. During special events throughout the year, Roper Mountain is open to the public, and it is truly worth a visit (or ten). From September through May, you can visit during Afternoon Explorations on Thursdays and Fridays.

You can also explore June through July during their Summer Adventure programming, during which an exciting traveling exhibit is set up. And don’t forget their year-round Friday Starry Nights at the Hooper Planetarium.

Kids of all ages will love the RMSC. There is so much for them to see and do from the Dinosaur Trail, the touch tanks in the Marine Lab, the rainforest with its small waterfall, the outdoor play area, the pirate and castle playgrounds, and traveling exhibits.

Environmental Science & Sustainability Building

There is so much to explore at Roper Mountain Science Center that we promise you’ll need lots of visits to see everything. When you first arrive, you will enter through the Environmental Science and Sustainability Building. The building is dedicated to water ecology and sustainability practices and is filled with immersive experiences, a traveling exhibit (in summer), live animal displays, and more.

You can see a Timber Rattlesnake and Copperhead snake mere inches away and see a Hellbender up close as well. Kids love the interactive exhibits that teach them what not to flush down the toilet (parents like this one as well) and how to lower and raise the water level in a lake. Pretty neat stuff.

One of the most popular exhibits is the Nature Exchange. Here, your child can bring in items they found in nature, including moss, rocks, shells, lichen, or other items in exchange for points that they can use to spend on awesome items like crystals, fossils, and even owl pellets.

The Environmental Science and Sustainability Building is only open to the public during special events and Afternoon Explorations and Summer Adventure.

Harrison Hall of Natural Science

As you leave the lower level exit of the Environmental Science building, you can follow the path toward the Dinosaur Trail to the left or the Harrison Hall of Natural Science to the right. I am a huge ecology lover, so I immediately gravitate toward Harrison Hall. Here you will find multiple active classrooms to explore. There are live animals to meet and even touch like docile snakes, lizards, and sometimes even an alligator.

I love the permanent rainforest exhibit since it’s nice and humid and has a small waterfall, cocoa tree, and benches to enjoy the warmth, which feels especially nice during the colder months.

You can explore taxidermied animals, bone collections, specimen collections, and living animal exhibits. Your child can touch snakes, meet a skink, and learn about ecology and biodiversity during their exploration.

The Marine Lab is super popular because you and your children will be able to touch stingrays, starfish, and other sea creatures in the tide pool while learning about them.

The Ecology Lab showcases South Carolina habitats with their native animals, which include a Mountain Trout Stream, a Beaver/Turtle Pond, a Cypress Swamp (with an alligator), and a Salt Marsh. Guests can also check out a live honeybee hive at work.

Harrison Hall of Natural Science is only open to the public during special events such as Summer Adventure and Afternoon Explorations.

Dinosaur Trail

If you decide to head to the Dinosaur Adventure Trail first, then your dino adventure will start with a meet and greet with a Triceratops. All the dinosaurs are life-size models, so be sure to notice the awe in your young kid’s eyes as they notice them towering above them.

Be mindful of the ropes, as RMSC does not allow climbing on the majority of the exhibited dinosaurs. There is a big slide and play area that was designed to look like dinosaur bones coming out of the ground that kids can play on.

Don’t miss the animatronics T-Rex , which moves and roars. It’s motion-activated so you have no idea it’s going to move until you (or your kids) walk in front of it.

The Dinosaur Adventure Trail is open to the public during special events, Afternoon Explorations, and Summer Adventure.

Pirate & Castle Playgrounds

Your kids will LOVE the two newer playgrounds: a large pirate playground for older kids and a smaller castle playground for toddlers.

Both are located next to Harrison Hall and are partially in the shade depending on the time of day. There are benches for parents to sit on as well. Kids really love these new playgrounds as they foster lots of imaginative adventures on the high seas and in the world of knights and ladies at the castle.

These playgrounds are open during Summer Adventure and Afternoon Explorations.

Living History Farm & Butterfly Garden

One of my earliest memories as a kid was visiting the Living History Farm when I was in Kindergarten. With authentic log cabins, a schoolhouse, a working barn, and a reconstructed former slave cabin, there is so much history that you can live the experience. Walking through the gardens, fields, pasture, farm pond, and farm animals certainly lend itself to easily imagining that time period.

The Living History Farm also has an incredible garden in the summer. You will find the Butterfly Garden on the outskirts of the Living History Farm. The garden has native plants that are frequently visited by butterflies, bees, and other pollinators.

The Living History Farm is only open to the public during special events and Summer Adventure while the Butterfly Garden is open during Afternoon Explorations, Summer Adventure, and special events.

Symmes Hall of Science

If you are a lover of all things STEM, then the Symmes Hall of Science will be the highlight of your trip to the Roper Mountain Science Center. Though Symmes Hall is only open during special events, it is worth it when you get to explore chemical reactions through experimentation, explore Tesla coils and solar panels, and interact with robotics.

Hooper Planetarium & Daniel Observatory

Last, but not least, the incredible Hooper Planetarium and Daniel Observatory. If you are wanting to spark a love for science in your child, this is a great place to start. The Hooper Planetarium is designed with a 360-degree dome with 4K projection and a truly immersive sound system.

The Hooper Planetarium offers special space-themed programming called Friday Starry Nights throughout the year. The planetarium is also equipped with a Laser Fantasy projection system, which is spectacular, to say the least! You can enjoy Laser Days of Summer, Halloween Laser Shows, and Special Laser Events throughout the year.

If you’re looking for a truly magical experience for adults and kids, then head to the Daniel Observatory after your planetarium showing to look through the historic 23’’ refractor telescope. The telescope is the 8th largest of its kind in the United States! You’ll be able to observe Jupiter, Mars, Saturn, and more as you climb the steps to look through the scope.

Friday Starry Nights

Friday Starry Nights at the Roper Mountain Science Center on Friday nights is a favorite activity for many. Shows sell out quickly and RMSC suggests purchasing tickets online beforehand. You can find out everything you need to know about Friday Starry Nights in our KA review.

View of the earth from the planetarium at Roper Mountain Science Center

Friday Starry Nights are offered on Friday evenings throughout the year at the Hooper Planetarium. Typically, there are three showings (4:30 pm, 6:00 pm, 7:30 pm), with each showing offering a unique feature film themed around space. The 4:30 pm show is excellent for younger children to attend and is recommended for ages 4 and older. The 6:00 pm show is also kid-friendly and features a film that is more exploratory of space in a kid-friendly way. The 7:30 feature showing is most appropriate for older children and adults.

Tickets to Friday Starry Nights are $8/adults and teens, $7/kids ages 3-12. The shows are generally not recommended for kids three and under (I can vouch for this – to my dismay, my toddler was scared when we visited the planetarium during an event).

Laser Shows at the Hooper Planetarium

The planetarium also features several special events throughout the year, including Laser Days of Summer, Halloween Laser Shows, Holiday Laser Shows, Pink Floyd Laser Shows, and more. I saw the Laser Days of Summer Pink Floyd’s Dark Side of the Moon a couple of years ago, and it was EPIC.

These events are fully immersive, and allow you to sit back and listen to classic albums of the Beatles, Led Zeppelin, Jimi Hendrix, Stranger Things, and more while lasers tell a story across the 360 degree screen. Regularly check the Roper Mountain Science Center website for updates about their upcoming special events and laser shows.

Tickets for Laser Days of Summer can be purchased now, and the event will begin July 17th, 2025. Multiple showings are offered from Thursday through Saturday from 4:30 pm to 9:00 pm on most nights. Tickets for Laser Days of Summer are $8 per adult or child.

The Nature Exchange

There are 12 Nature Exchanges in the country and they are like little shops for kids that focus on learning about things you find in nature and seeking out neat things that you may not otherwise see if perhaps you weren’t looking for them.

The Nature Exchange at the RMSC is the only one in the state but it’s connected to the other 11 through a database. When your kids sign up, they are entered into this national database. As they rack up points, if they visit another Nature Exchange on a trip, they can use those points to get something from that particular place they visit.

At the Nature Exchange at RMSC, there are lots of neat items already that kids can choose from if they earn enough points. Each person who signs up automatically gets 100 points plus they get points for their birthday, also. Kids can then choose something from the big Nature Exchange wall that is the same number or less than the points they have accumulated. Or, they can accumulate their points and save up for something super cool like a dinosaur fossil plate or a pretty stone or a big bug.

Kids will find everything from gemstones to intricate shells to mummified grasshoppers and tarantulas. The Nature Exchange is located on the top floor of the Environmental Science and Sustainability Building, to the left of the main entrance.

Afternoon Explorations

Afternoon Explorations is when RMSC is open to the public during the school year. They will open back up in the fall of 2025 likely on Thursday and Friday afternoons. Guests will have access to the Environmental Science and Sustainability Center, the Rain Forest Room, Marine Lab and Ecology Lab in Harrison Hall of Natural Science as well as the Living History Farm when weather permits.

You will also be able to hunt for dinosaurs on the Dinosaur Adventure Trail, play in Wildwood, visit the Butterfly Garden, and play on the Pirates of the Carolinas playground.

Tickets for Afternoon Explorations are $8/adults and teens, $7/kids ages 3-12. Members receive free admission.

2025 Summer Adventure & Traveling Exhibit

Summer Adventure 2025 opened May 28th and ends July 26th. Visit during Summer Adventure Tuesday – Saturdays from 10 am – 4 pm. Explore all the exhibits RMSC has to offer, including this year’s traveling exhibit, Wild Kratts: Creature Power—only accessible during the summer.

The traveling exhibit changes every year, so it’s something special and unique to experience. Summer Adventure also offers special programs, including cockroach racing, the Eat a Bug challenge, farm animal interactions at the Living History Farm, period costume volunteers, and more to get children engaged and excited about science.

The Butterfly Exhibit is a favorite of ours and many of our readers. Butterflies are in a greenhouse and guests can go in with some Gatorade on a stick and butterflies will land on it. Or they will land on you! We learned that if you are sweating and wear bright colors, you have a greater chance of a butterfly taking up residence on you.

If you really want to get adventurous, you can earn your membership in the Eat-A-Bug Club on Saturday’s at 11 am or watch a cockroach race on Saturday’s at 11:30 am. Both are worth going for, even if you don’t eat bugs.

Admission is free for members, and tickets are $15 per adult and $14 per child 3 – 12 years of age. EBT cardholders can purchase tickets for $5.

The Butterfly Garden

The outdoor butterfly garden is located beside the parking lot in front of the Harrison Hall of Natural Science. It’s definitely something to check out, enjoy the beautifully landscaped garden, and see some butterflies. If you’d like to make it a homeschool adventure, try some of the books, ideas and activities below.

butterflies at roper mountain science center

Make it Educational

Math: Draw the butterflies with colored pencils (maybe take pictures with a cell phone to reference later) and keep a tally count of how many of each variety you see. Once you return home, turn your tally count into a bar graph. Siblings can compare their graphs and see how they differ.

Science: Use some butterfly books or websites to help you name the different species of butterflies you see. If it’s too much to manage “in the field” just take pictures and look them up when you get home. The following resources may be helpful.

Discuss the butterfly life cycle before or after your visit to the garden. Here’s a great freebie kids’ resource of the life cycle.

Language Arts: Come up with some super sentences about butterflies. Make them factual or fictional. Use the bright colors and textures of the insects and the garden to dress up your sentences with adjectives. Look at how the butterflies move and what they do to pick some great verbs for your sentences.

Resources

This website deals with butterflies specific to our area, and has pictures that may be helpful to you when trying to name species.

The Life Cycles of Butterflies: from egg to maturity, a visual guide to 23 common garden butterflies (J 595.789 Burris) by Judy Burris and Wayne Richards -This book shows the life cycle of butterflies, but also shows pictures of common butterflies and areas where they are found. The Greenville libraries have many other fine books on butterflies with photographs under the call number J 595.789.

If you’d like to know a little more about the purpose of butterfly gardens, or the specific plants and landscaping you see at the garden, check out this portion of Roper Mountain’s website. It lists the host plants and nectar plants found at the science center’s butterfly garden. Many of these plants are labeled in the garden. Spend some time examining these plants.

Summer Camps

RMSC is focused on making STEM – Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics- fun for kids, and summer camps are no exception. But summer at Roper Mountain is more than just science: they also offer camps focusing on art, literature, moviemaking, mythology, photography and so much more. Summer camps at the Roper Mountain Science Center are available from K5 through Grade 12, and early drop-off and lunch stays are available for students attending separate morning and afternoon sessions.

Summer camp registration begins in March and camps fill up very quickly. Members will get first dibs on summer camp registration and if you really, really want your kid in a certain camp, you can get the concierge membership, which will ensure you will be able to register your kid(s) before anyone else.

Science on Wheels – Bring Science Lessons to You

If you are looking for a unique and science-driven demonstration for a school program or public outreach program Science on Wheels will bring the experimentation to you. They even have a portable planetarium! The program is perfect for school science days, preschools, library events, family audiences, afterschool groups, evening school events, summer camps, and community centers.

If you think RMSC’s Science on Wheels would be perfect for your group event, you can request more information by contacting the Roper Mountain Science Center directly. Educators can also utilize the many amazing programs Roper Mountain has to offer, including field trips, virtual field trips, e-learning Live From Roper, and more to boost their science curriculum for their students.

RMSC Membership

Speaking of membership to the RMSC, they have some worthwhile packages, especially if your family loves science and technology.

Memberships include free admission to Afternoon Explorations, Summer Adventure, and Friday Starry Nights, special pricing for special events and Laser Days of Summer, and early registration to summer camps. A family membership costs $125 and is easily paid for in just a couple of visits to the RMSC.

Additionally, members get free or discounted admission to over 300 science centers and museums worldwide. This is a great perk when traveling or planning day trips or summer vacations. Just know that the program only works if you live outside of a 90 mile radius of RMSC, so it would currently not work for free admission to the Schiele Museum in Gastonia or the WNC Nature Center.

Bottom line: A membership to the RMSC is a good investment in both learning and entertainment!

TReehouse Cafe and Art Studio: Coffee, Lunch and Lots of Art With Kids in Travelers Rest, SC

Art and coffee? Add in some great sandwiches and that’s what you’ll find at the TReehoue Cafe and Art Studio in Travelers Rest. KAG’s Kristina Hernandez stopped by so she could tell our readers all about this unique cafe. Learn about the coffee, food, and activities they offer in this review.

I love coffee, I love art, and I love it when my kids aren’t fighting with each other. So it was definitely love after two full hours of coloring, painting, playing, and eating grilled cheese sandwiches at the TRee House Café & Art Studio in beautiful Travelers Rest.

If you want to support a local small business in town, from my own personal experience with Kristen, the incredible owner, this is the place to do it. I cannot say enough good things about this woman and her love for the community and her guests. If I lived closer to TR, I’d seriously go here multiple times a week.

About TRee House Café & Art Studio

The café and art studio is located where Leopard Forest Coffee used to be (they moved down the street), two doors down from Sidewall Pizza, and right off the Swamp Rabbit Trail. The location is ideal but the true gem is once you walk through the doors.

I’ve been in lots of cafes but none as interesting as this one. There is an entire art bar down the center of the café, strewn with crayons, paint brushes, coloring books, paper, and brightly colored ornaments and painted rocks. There are checkers and a few Mr. Potato Heads. My kids made a beeline for the art bar as soon as we walked in and started coloring and drawing.

That made me happy.

On the far wall, there are shelves full of blank canvases ready for your inspired paintings, plus tons of paint and brushes. The table next to the shelves has been decorated to look like a painter’s palette, which I had to admit I was a bit jealous of because it was so cool. The owner, Kristen, told me she had it made years ago to remind her of her dream to open a café and art studio.

Opposite the shelves is a cozy nook with a fireplace, more buckets of crayons, and comfy chairs. It’s quite inviting. And of course, there is the food and drink part of the café. Gene runs the kitchen and he’s a culinary genius using pretty simple ingredients. I’ve never been disappointed with the food here.

I ordered a grilled cheese with chips for my two kids and I had the Chicken Pesto panini with chips and chamomile tea. The grilled cheese was enormous and plenty for my kids. It was a good size and very tasty, way better than I expected. They also sell bagels, pastries, and muffins.

So what in the world did we do for two hours? Not even everything the café had to offer (which means we are going back, yay!). We painted rocks – the ones that people hide at random places around town, we drew and colored, my kids colored parts of the cardboard house and played inside, they tried hula hooping, played with the Mr. Potato Heads, and I blissfully colored by number Van Gogh’s famous painting “The Starry Night”, which was beyond therapeutic.

The café sells canvases in various sizes that you can paint, along with other projects to paint.

Kristen is an art teacher by trade and she was so engaged with not only my kids but the other kids who were there enjoying the café. She has a seemingly endless amount of patience and encouraged us to try anything we wanted to do. Their Facebook page is the best way to stay updated on what’s happening there, for special events and more.

The café also has wifi available, which I saw many patrons using as they tapped away on their laptops. I was almost unhappy I didn’t bring my laptop to do the same since my kids were so occupied but then I would not have been able to enjoy my own coloring adventure!

Want to go?

For up-to-date info on events and hours, follow the TRee House Café & Art Studio on their Facebook page.

TRee House Café & Art Studio
27 South Main Street
Travelers Rest, SC
864.610.2266

Closed Mondays and Tuesdays. Open Wednesday through Sunday, 8 am to 5 pm.

Would your kids love a visit to TRee House Café & Art Studio?

🎨 Check out More Places to Make Art Near Greenville, SC!

20 Top Ideas for Great Dates With Your Kid

Looking for some fun mom and son dates near Greenville, SC or daddy daughter dates near Greenville, SC? Whether you’re looking for a memorable outing or quality one-on-one time with your child, writer Kristina Hernandez shares 20 great date ideas. From splurge-worthy adventures to free activities, these ideas are perfect for any family and situation. Plus, we’ve included some tips to help you make the most of your special time together!

Looking for even more fun activities to enjoy in Greenville? Be sure to check out our ultimate guide to things to do in Greenville for even more great ideas for family-friendly adventures!

As soon as my daughter was old enough, as in she could maybe hold a slice of pizza and take a tentative bite, I took her on a date to my favorite pizza joint. While conversation with a three-year-old was limited, it was the time we spent together that made the difference.

As she has grown up and the concept of a “date” is slowly beginning to form in her little mind, she loves it when it’s just her and I out together or her and dad. Nurturing the child-parent relationship with dates is one of my favorite ways to spend time together – and here are some ideas to make it one of your favorite times too.

Tips for Date Time With Your Kid

Here are a few tips for maximizing this special time with your child from Kidding Around Owner Bethany Winston.

Don’t make the date a reward for good behavior.
Don’t let this treat be one that has to be earned. Make it a treat that they get just because you love them and want to spend time with them. The kid who constantly presses your buttons is likely the kid who also really needs your attention.
Put your cell phone on “Do Not Disturb”
If nothing else, it will send a clear message to your child that they are more important than your business and Facebook.
Do something inexpensive and simple.
Remember this outing is about taking time to just enjoy your child. Big, glitzy programs can distract you from being able to really talk and get to know each other. When the outing is inexpensive and simple, it’s also easier to repeat frequently.
Don’t force your kids to talk.
Sometimes it’s good just to take a break from trying to find out information from your child, and instead give them space to talk about what they want to talk about. You never know where that might lead.
Cater to your kid’s preferences.
Try to let your child do something that they enjoy rather than having to cater to your tastes. This might mean eating at a place that wouldn’t be your top choice or spending a half hour watching your kid climb a playground.
Try to incorporate moments like these into everyday life.

Places to Have a Date With Your Kid

Whether you’re planning a mother-daughter/son or daddy-daughter/son date, they can be super simple. But if you’re looking to get out and about, here are some great ideas for places you can bring your child throughout Greenville, SC!

Ice Cream Date

Because who doesn’t love going on an ice cream date? It’s inexpensive, doesn’t require a smaller child to sit still for a long time, and it can involve chocolate.

Best ice cream shops in Greenville and Spartanburg, SC.

Best Ice Cream Shops in Greenville, SC!

Trampoline parks

Get in a workout and have fun at our local trampoline parks Big Air and Sky Zone Greenville.

Bike Ride

This can either involve an actual bike with an older kid or the parent walking next to their child riding a bike. Go around the block a couple of times and talk with your child or go on the Swamp Rabbit Trail (or other places) together. It’s exercise and bonding.

Pedicab Ride

Take a ride on a pedicab through Greenville with Greenville Bike Taxi. We did it during the holidays but you can do it any time of the year!

The Greenville Bike Taxi is so much fun, your kids will LOVE exploring the city!

Fly through the air

Go zip lining and climb through rope courses in the air at Flying Rabbit Adventures. This would be awesome for older kids who you can do the bigger course together with.

Flying Rabbit Adventures near Downtown Greenville, South Carolina

The Flying Rabbit Adventures ropes course is an epic kid date night!

Go see a play

I’ve taken my daughter to the South Carolina Children’s Theatre to see shows and it’s really fun. I used to go to Broadway shows in New York City with my mother when I was old enough and while Greenville isn’t NYC, it certainly has a wonderful theater community with excellent plays. And the Greenville Theatre has wonderful age-appropriate shows throughout the year.

Get Crafting

Head to ReCraft for a fun time together making new things out of old things!

ReCraft Greenville is a great place to craft with your kids!

Recraft Creative ReUse Center in Greenville, South Carolina

Go to Home Depot Free Workshop Days

Home Depot has a kid workshop day every first Saturday of the month and we’ve been going for years. It’s free and you get to build something together and paint it and get all messy. It’s a blast.

Shop for Cheap Books

If your kid loves to read, make a date out of any of our area’s used book sales or the massive Book Warehouse Outlet sales.

Story Time

Libraries are worlds of imagination and creativity. I am an avid reader and my kids love books so taking one to story time is a treat. Libraries also have lots of free craft activities! There are also several storytime events throughout Greenville that your kids will enjoy.

Museums

The Upcountry History Museum always has awesome exhibits and I’ve taken my daughter to them for dates before and we always really enjoy it. They are interactive and give parents the chance to read quickly and look smart for their kids (hoping that’s not just me). The Children’s Museum of the Upstate also has tons of great workshops and exhibits.

You can visit the Greenville County Museum of Art absolutely free. They also have great events and activities on their calendar and many are free.

Roper Mountain Science Center Starry Nights

The Roper Mountain Science Center has a planetarium night every Friday evening about the stars and constellations and you get to lean back and look up at the starry night sky. It’s really neat and fun for both kids and adults.

Roper Mountain Science Center, Greenville, SC

Roper Mountain Science Center has so much to do, including Starry Nights on Fridays, that make a perfect daddy/daughter, mother/son date night!

Go shopping

I really don’t enjoy shopping but I do enjoy shopping for my kids and letting them pick out clothes or a book or a toy. I’m a big fan of some of the children’s consignment stores in the area and thrift stores like Miracle Hill and Goodwill. It’s fun to take your child and pick out a book for 50 cents or a dress for a couple of dollars.

Find a new picnic spot

Greenville has so many special little outdoor nooks that are perfect for picnics. Pack your meal or grab a to-go meal from one of your favorite restaurants. If you need tips, we’ve got you covered with ideas on how to plan the perfect picnic.

Coffee/Hot Chocolate

While your kids hopefully aren’t addicted to coffee like us crazy adults, there are tons of great little cafes in the Greenville area to grab a caffeinated beverage for you, a hot chocolate for your kid, and maybe a scone or two to share and relax while sitting on a comfy sofa or at a window overlooking Main Street.

Go Indoor Rock Climbing

This is perfect for both kids and their parents who are adventurous or want to try something new. BlockHaven, Climb@BlueRidge, and projectROCK Easley are all great options for indoor rock climbing.

Places to go rock climbing near Greenville, SC, with indoor and outdoor options!

Take a hike

With miles and miles of trails in the area, you can’t really go wrong taking a hike together. Pack a lunch and have a great day together.

Pick-Your-Own-??

During the warmer months, there are lots of great options to pick strawberries, tulips, lavender, and apples, which provides opportunities for conversation and quality time together.

Get cooking or baking

Whether in your kitchen or taking a cooking class together like this bread-making class! Learning to make delicious food together is something that your child will carry for the rest of their lives.

Painting & Creating

The TReehouse Cafe and Art Studio is one of our favorite places thanks to its relaxing yet funky and artsy vibe. You can grab a meal together and paint or create art while there. Or you can go together to one of these painting/art places around town (just call ahead of time to be sure they have space).

TReehouse Cafe and Art Studio in Travelers Rest is a great kid’s date idea, with art projects, delicious food, and awesome decor!

Go to a game

For older kids, a great date night would be to see a baseball game at Fluor Field. Or see the Greenville hockey team, the Swamp Rabbits, play at The Well.

Farmers Markets

From downtown Greenville to Travelers Rest to Simpsonville, the summer months are filled with beautiful farmers markets where you can take a stroll with your kid through the stands, grab a scone, and pick out produce and fruit that they like. In the wintertime, hit up the Toasty Farmer Indoors Farmer Market. It’s a good opportunity for them to help choose nurturing food for you both to cook at home together.

Go mini-golfing or golfing together

Takeoff Mini-Golf next to Runway Park in Greenville is such a fun place to go mini-golfing. There’s also free mini-golfing at McPherson Park in Greenville or Sparkle City Putt Putt in Spartanburg. For older kids, Top Golf or 3’s Greenville Golf & Grill are great choices.

Run a race together

So many great races are happening this spring in the Greenville area. Some offer child races but if your kid is old enough, run a short race with them (or if they are smaller, some races allow you to run with a jogger).

Enjoy the Outdoors

Greenville is situated in such a perfect place – it’s not far from the mountains or beautiful, pristine lakes. Go kayaking or paddleboarding on a date with your kid in either a tandem kayak if they are smaller or two kayaks. Go hiking – the trails here are really fun and there are hikes for people of all ages. Or go fishing together!

Go old school

Take your child to the Upstate Pinball & Arcade Museum where you can play all kinds of old-school games together.

The Upstate Pinball & Arcade Museum has $10 all-day gameplay!

Do you have a great idea for a date with your kid to add to our list?

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!

Restaurants and Breweries with Live Music near Greenville, SC

Are you looking for places to enjoy live music at restaurants in Greenville, SC? Here you will find several spots where you can sit back, relax, and enjoy music. We can thank our contributor Andrea Beam and additions by local Kidding Around Team members for this great list of places in Greenville and nearby communities that offer live music while you dine!

live music in restaurants greenville, sc

For more great restaurants near Greenville, SC, don’t miss our Guide to Restaurants in Greenville, SC!

One of my favorite things to do is to enjoy live music… it doesn’t matter if I’m eating out or shopping, the whole experience is made better with live music in the background. And when the temperatures pick back up, there’s nothing quite like enjoying local, live music outside. Here’s a list of my favorite local places to sip on a drink and eat delicious food while listening to live music. Take out your pen and pad: You’ll want to write these down!

Looking for some ideas to help you plan the perfect date in Greenville, SC? Our Guide to Date Nights in Greenville is loaded with restaurant ideas, activities and things to do, bed and breakfasts, day trips for couples and so much more!

Live Music Restaurants: Greenville, SC

Thomas Creek Brewery

Thomas Creek offers both indoor and outdoor seating spaces with a wide variety of brews on tap, plus a few wine and cider options as well. They have live music on select dates in the brewery.

The dates and times will vary, but follow Thomas Creek on Facebook to see what’s happening and when. Then head to the brewery to enjoy some wings and small plate bites with locally-crafted beer with a side of live music.

Fireforge Crafted Beer

Located in downtown Greenville, Fireforge Crafted Beer’s events calendar features live music on various nights throughout the week, usually starting around 7 pm (with some daytime shows during the weekend). Grab a bite to eat and enjoy their locally-brewed beer while tapping your toes!

Smiley’s On The Roxx

Looking for live music 7 nights per week? Then you have to check out Smiley’s on the Roxx in Downtown Greenville! The music lineup regularly features local artists you may notice in the Greenville music scene, plus they have a have a decent menu of small plate options and entrees to choose from.

Blues Boulevard Jazz

To really amp up the romance on a romantic date night, Blues Boulevard Jazz should be on your radar. The jazz club in Downtown Greenville regularly features some of the best jazz and blues musicians in the area.

Plus, they have a food menu to choose from, so you can sip a cocktail and enjoy a meal while listening to some smooth music. Ladies, they also have a night just for you every Thursday is you are looking for a girls night out.

Rocky’s Hot Chicken Shack

You can enjoy delicious Nashville-style hot chicken along with acoustic musical performances at Rocky’s Hot Chicken Shack. The shop is located at 420 Laurens Road in Greenville near Pleasantburg Drive, and will have music during the spring and summer months with their Wings and Strings series.

Music usually happens Wednesday night from 6:30 – 8:30 pm. Keep up with what bands are playing through the Rocky’s Wings and Strings website.

Gather GVL

Located near Fluor Field, Gather GVL is an outdoor food hall built out of shipping containers. The food and beverage vendors at Gather GVL promise something yummy for everyone, especially frozen drinks from Juice Box Wine Bar. At the heart of this colorful and kid-friendly outdoor space is a stage on which you can regularly find a local troubadour doing their thing.

Their event calendar regularly features live music, especially on Saturdays and Sundays. Be sure to read our review of Gather GVL before you pop over there.

13 Stripes Brewery

Located at the Taylors Mill, 13 Stripes Brewery always has something fun going on. The brewery regularly has live music, so you will want to follow their Facebook to see special live music events.

Chicora Alley

Chicora Alley has delicious food, and often pairs the meal with live music. Musicians that frequent Chicora offer funk, rock, acoustic, jam band, jazz, Caribbean fusion, and just excellent music that you can dance to! Chicora has two locations, one in Downtown Greenville near Falls Park, and one in Travelers Rest.

The Radio Room

The Radio Room may be known to many as a small, local music venue, but their menu features yummy sandwiches, hot dogs, burgers, appetizers, and signature drinks. The venue is an excellent choice is you’re looking to see live music, but also maybe need a little bite to eat during the concert.

Their event calendar is loaded with live music coming to Greenville in addition to special events and trivia nights.

Fountain Inn Taproom at The Mill

The Fountain Inn Taproom offers a variety of events throughout the year, including live music. They have a wide selection of beer and wine to go along with your food, which includes snacking items like paninis, bratwurst, pretzels, and nachos.

Vaughn’s Food Hall

Located in Simpsonville, Vaughn’s Food Hall has it all! Not only can you grab delicious food from a variety of cuisines, but they regularly host bands for live music nights. You’ll find their upcoming music schedule on their Facebook page.

The Taphouse also has great brews if you want to grab a drink before heading out to the large open space to hang out. Check out our full review of Vaughn’s Food Hall to see everything they have to offer.

The Whistle Stop

It’s no secret The Whistle Stop at The American Cafe is is one of my favorite destinations, but what’s even better than their menu is the rooftop dining area. Yes, you heard that right – eating dinner on the roof! Throw in a live band and you have the perfect spring evening. Check their website and/or Facebook page to see if they have anyone hitting the stage!

Spartanburg, SC Live Music Restaurants

Ciclops Cideri and Brewery

Ciclops Cyderi and Brewery in the heart of Spartanburg regularly features live music and trivia. Plus they’ve got their tasty signature brews and bites! The Ciclops Cyderi and Brewery calendar page has a a packed schedule.

Fr8yard

Also in downtown Spartanburg, Fr8yard is an outdoor biergarten built from repurposed shipping containers. They regularly welcome regional acts to their stage. Their master calendar has a full list of upcoming live music acts. Bonus: Their menu sounds like the perfect pairing to live music and tasty beverages!

New Groove Artisan Brewery

Just 30 minutes from Greenville, Boiling Spring’s New Groove Artisan Brewery serves pub fare and includes a menu “for the groovy kids.” Beverages include their beer, as well as specialty crafted sodas. To keep up with their live music schedule, follow their Facebook or Instagram pages.

With the continued growth of the restaurant, bar, and brewery scene in the Upstate, I’ve brushed the surface of places around town to enjoy live music while grabbing a bite to eat or perusing the stacks. However, my son would probably like to eat dinner so I had to stop at some point. As always, we’d love to hear from you if you have anything to add.

It looks like I’ve planned quite a few weekends for you!

You can thank me later.

What live music venue would you like to add to our list?

This article was originally written by Andrea Beam and has been updated by the Kidding Around Team.