Greenville, South Carolina has been topping lists around the country for years as one of the best places to live, and one of it’s shining attributes is how family-friendly it is. The Upstate area is bursting at the seams with fun activities and attractions for kids and families. We’ve made a list of some of our favorites, and we’re confident that whether you’re a local, a visitor, or planning to relocate to the area, there’s something here for everyone.
Falls Park -- Located in the heart of downtown Greenville, this beautifully landscaped sprawling park features waterfalls, walking paths, and an amphitheatre that hosts Shakespeare in the Park and Moonlight Movies. There are several kid-friendly eateries within walking distance of the park. We love Spill the Beans, a cafe serving coffee, tea, and some of the best ice cream in town.
Greenville Zoo -- Not too big and not too small, the Greenville Zoo is nestled in the Cleveland Park neighborhood, and is home to over 300 different animals. The path through the zoo is a loop, featuring several play areas along the way for kids of all ages. You can purchase food at one of the snack stands within the zoo, or bring your own snacks and eat at one of the many picnic tables.
Paris Mountain State Park -- Visible on the horizon from most of Greenville, Paris Mountain is the local go-to spot for hiking with the family. Paris Mountain has several trails that are perfect for even the littlest hikers. In the fall, you can enjoy Music in the Woods at the amphitheatre off of the Mountain Creek Trail.
Children’s Museum of the Upstate -- With two locations in Greenville and Spartanburg, TCMU is a fantastic option for indoor fun that is entertaining and engaging. With 20 interactive exhibit galleries and over 100 hands-on activities, it’s not surprising that TCMU is the only children’s museum to become a Smithsonian Affiliate. There is an outdoor playground, as well as a cafe with light refreshments.
Escape Artist -- Your family will love this immersive and interactive one-hour adventure in which you’ll solve mysteries and crack codes in order to ‘escape’ from one of seven themed rooms. Designed for parties of 4-8, Escape Artist has puzzles and challenges to appeal to every age group.
DEFY and Sky Zone -- Trampoline parks are a great way to combat the cabin fever that comes with days and days of cold rainy weather. Be sure to check out these parks if your children are into showcasing their somersaults.
TReehouse Cafe and Studio -- Located in downtown Traveler’s Rest, this charming art cafe offers everything your little artist needs to create their own masterpiece while you watch the magic and enjoy a cup of coffee or one of the delicious menu items.
Color Clay Cafe -- This paint your own pottery studio offers hundreds of unfinished pieces of pottery to choose from and paint, with materials for every age and skill level. All of the glazing and firing is done for you, then you’ll be presented with your own beautiful work of art.
Lake Conestee Nature Preserve -- This 406 acre state-designated wildlife sanctuary is truly a gem within Greenville, with hiking trails and walking bridges to provide more access to the natural beauty it seeks to protect. Your kids will love spotting birds, turtles and other signs of wildlife throughout the park.
Runway Park at GMU -- With aviation themed play equipment, a paved loop that is perfect for riding scooters and bikes, and a cafe onsite, this fully enclosed playground on the grounds of the Greenville Downtown Airport already checks a lot of boxes for parents of young children. Now add the thrilling sights and sounds of the planes taking off and landing nearby every few minutes, and Runway Park is sure to become one of your child’s favorite spots in Greenville.
Greenville Gemstone Mine -- Everything you need to mine your own gems is provided at Greenville Gemstone Mine. You may have even more fun than your kids sifting through the coarse mine dirt and watching the colorful gems emerge as the dust is rinsed away. It's truly a cathartic treasure hunt!
If you're considering relocating your family to the Greenville, SC area or looking to buy or sell your home, we at PRODUCER Realty would love to help you find your perfect home or sell your current. Contact us for all of your real estate needs! 864-438-5050.
