Have you heard of reciprocal admission? Well, we are here to tell you what it is and why the program can benefit you (and your wallet) when visiting museums and science centers across the US! We decided to test the benefits of an ASTC Passport Program during a family trip to see if it was a deal worth the money.
What’s The Deal with a Reciprocal Admission Membership?
I personally recommend that local families consider purchasing memberships to the attractions in our area. It’s beneficial on a number of levels. Being a member has perks such as providing year-round educational experiences for your kids, investing in local non-profits, and access to special parties and discounts.
But, another less tapped into benefit is access to reciprocal admission benefits at other attractions across the United States. These benefits include reduced (and usually FREE) admission to museums and science centers throughout the US, just by having a membership to a participating local venue.
Roper Mountain Science Center: Local and Reciprocal!
One of the most affordable local memberships (with reciprocal benefits no less) is the Roper Mountain Science Center family pass. Currently, priced at $125/family a year ($120/family for teachers and homeschool families), this pass is already a good deal. My family uses ours frequently to attend Summer Adventures, Afternoon Explorations throughout the school year, Friday Starry Nights Planetarium shows. The pass also gives my family first access to the popular RMSC summer camps.
Road Trip! Using the ASTC Passport Program Across the Country
We previously took a trip up to the Northeast with our pass in hand to check out the reciprocal benefits that the pass offered. We figured that we might see a few interesting places with our pass, but our pass ended up providing access to places much larger than we expected.
With a long drive ahead of us and kids in town, we decided to check out our ASTC Passport Program list to find a museum on our route. We chose to stop at the Science Museum of Western Virginia. Our family could enter for a reduced price with our pass and the museum looked small enough to be easily enjoyed in just an hour (crucial for getting back on the road). At this specific museum, the first guest enters free, and all other guests pay $6.20 for adults and $3.20 for children.
Science Museum of Western Virginia
SMWV was a perfect stop in route, located under 5 hours from Greenville. The museum had a full floor of hands-on exhibits including a touch tank, a fungi exhibit, and a parakeet garden among other exhibits. They have several amazing exhibits to explore, so plan to spend a couple of hours here (at minimum). Younger children would love The Bubble exhibit, where your child can explore an enclosed, multi-sensory space with toys and games. There is also The Eye Planetarium at SMWV, which is open Thursday through Sunday with interactive shows and full-dome shows to spark your imagination!
Our kids had a great time getting out all their energy (while learning no less). When we got back in the car, we all agreed that the couple hours out of the car had helped us all feel a little bit more patient about the hours of driving ahead of us.
Total Amount Saved: $45.40
Franklin Institute
Once we arrived at our destination in Pennsylvania, we decided to go to nearby downtown Philly for a day of fun. We consulted our list and came up with several possibilities but the Franklin Institute looked the most promising.
After eating Philly Cheese Steaks at the close Pete’s Famous Pizza (recommended by a local and definitely worth passing on to you), we headed to the Franklin Institute. We were amazed by how large the museum was, just check out the massive Benjamin Franklin statue (pictured above). And, the ticket price was equally large at a whopping $25/adult.
We were a little afraid our local RMSC reciprocal card would be rejected, but the admissions desk checked it against the list and then passed us our blue wristbands without charging us a dime. As long as your reciprocal museum is more than 90 miles away from the Franklin Institute, your program pass is valid.
The Franklin Institute was an experience that I think our kids will remember for a long time. There are over a dozen expansive exhibits and experiences to explore. The museum housed a “Brain Climber”, a Human Body exhibit, an observatory, a two story immersive space exhibit, a full-size plane replica that you could sit in, and more exhibits than I could ever list here. Everything practically was hands-on. We pretended we were in the circus, played sports, sat in a theater that tricked our eyes into thinking we were upside down, and walked until our legs ached. We could have also attended Planetarium shows and could have spent several hours more exploring, but even tourists have their limits.
Total Amount Saved: $92.00
Virginia Discovery Museum
Days later, we finally headed home. Our experience on the way up had been so positive we decided to find another museum to stop at on the way home. After a bit of research we chose the Virginia Discovery Museum which looked similar to our own Children’s Museum of the Upstate (only much smaller). The museum is part of the ASTC Travel Passport program, offering free admission, but is also a part of the Association of Children’s Museums Reciprocal Network, which will get you 50% off if you are a member of The Children’s Museum of the Upstate!
We were disappointed to encounter a significant amount of traffic, combined with the sort of bathroom break schedule that only kids can create and a gas station that lost power in the middle of our gas pumping. Our ETA ticked later and later until we finally arrived in Charlottesville, VA just 25 minutes before the museum closed. Our pass really saved the day at this point, because paying for just 20 minutes would have made no sense. For free, though, we hopped out anyway and decided to make the best of it.
We would definitely recommend the Virginia Discovery Museum as an excellent mid-trip stopping point with others with small children. The museum was very small but packed with interesting exhibits including a miniature Virginia history exhibit (log cabin and all), a play Panera Bread restaurant, a role-playing bee-keeper station, a hospital, and a movie theater.
The museum is open Monday – Saturday from 9:30 am – 5 pm.
Total Amount Saved: $40.00
We couldn’t believe how much value our RMSC pass added to our trip with a total savings of $177.40 of attraction passes. We could have seen and done even more too if we would have had time (and energy for it).
Don’t forget to call and research reciprocal membership benefits before making plans. Reciprocal arrangements are subject to distance restrictions and can change at any time.
What membership does your family recommend for Greenville, SC?
Have you visited the campus of Clemson University? There is much more going on than academics on this beautiful campus situated at the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Whether you are visiting Death Valley, exploring the SC Botanical Garden and geology museum, or touring the Clemson University Equine Center, you will find something interesting to do for the entire family! There are so many things to do in Clemson, SC that are kid-friendly and worth a visit to explore.
Clemson University, Clemson’s Memorial Stadium
Looking for more things to do in Clemson, SC? Check out our guide to visiting Clemson, including where to stay, things to do, and where to dine while visiting the town of the Clemson Tigers!
Fun Things to Do: Clemson University Campus
Enjoy Ice Cream at Clemson’s ’55 Exchange
’55 Exchange 720 McMillan Road, Clemson, SC 864.656.2155 Located in the Hendrix Student Center, the ice cream at Clemson’s Ice Cream Shop is produced by the students. There are a variety of flavors, and also the “tiger slab” that you can mix ingredients into your ice cream. There are tables outside when it is warm enough to eat outside. There is also metered parking directly across from the ice cream shop
Play Frisbee on the Front Lawn at Bowman Field
Bowman Field Old Greenville Highway, Clemson, SC Bowman Field sits right along Route 93 below Tillman Hall, the beautiful building with the clock tower. This is a great place to picnic with friends, throw a Frisbee around, or get a game of football together. Clemson students find the lawn to be a great space for hanging out. Throughout the year, Clemson University provides activities for kids on the field. Clemson offers several outdoor spaces to explore, relax, or play games with your family and friends. After playing some frisbee, head over to the famous Esso Club to grab lunch!
Enjoy a Performance at the Brooks Center for the Performing Arts
Brooks Center for the Performing Arts 141 Jersey Lane, Clemson, SC There is always something going on at the Brooks Center. You will find musical performances, theatrical productions, academic lectures, art exhibitions, and so much more throughout the year. The University has a wonderful choir, with the women’s TakeNote and the men’s Tigerroar performances that are entertaining and captivating! The center also has a wonderful program for students and homeschoolers called the Tri-Art series that offers inspiring and entertaining performances for ages 3 – 18.
Play Along with Clemson’s Tiger Band Practice
Clemson University Tiger Band On the eve of every home Clemson Tigers football game, the Tiger Band opens up their practice to allow families to come and listen at their practice field. The kids love to listen to the instruments and dance along to the beat. Also, ninety minutes before the start of every home game the band practices at the Clemson Outdoor Amphitheater on campus near the library. There is so much spirit in the air at these events that it will give you goosebumps.
South Carolina Botanical Gardens, Clemson, SC
Walk the Trails at the South Carolina Botanical Gardens
South Carolina Botanical Garden 150 Discovery Lane, Clemson, SC 864.656.3405 The botanical gardens consist of 295 acres of gorgeous flowers and landscapes. The gardens offer some of the most serene trails at Clemson. There are duck ponds for the children to visit, as well as an adorable children’s garden that encourages them to play in the dirt. My son’s favorite is the red caboose that children can climb on and pretend to steer. The gardens provide a variety of classes for children throughout the year. If you a lover of native plants, be sure to check out the exceptional rhododendrons that bloom in the spring!
Tour the Clemson University Equine Center
Clemson University Equine Center 815 West Queen Street, Clemson, SC 864.646.3554 The Clemson University Equine Center provides riding lessons for community members, from beginning to advanced levels. They also provide therapeutic riding lessons for individuals with special needs. The Center also offers equestrian camps for high school students. You must request a tour of the facility if you would like to explore everything it has to offer! Tours are Monday through Friday at 3 pm.
Tour Death Valley and Clemson’s Memorial Stadium
Memorial Stadium MacMillan Rd, Clemson, SC 864.656.2115 Take a stroll through campus and visit the tiger statues in front of Clemson’s Memorial Stadium, nicknamed Death Valley. Be sure to check out Howard’s Rock while you are there. The stadium offers events throughout the year where you can meet the Clemson University Tiger, Bring your camera for this adorable photo op with the kids! There are tiger statues and paw prints scattered all around campus. See if you can find them all!
Bob Campbell Geology Museum, Clemson, SC
Fossils and Dinosaur Bones: Bob Campbell Geology Museum
Bob Campbell Geology Museum 140 Discovery Lane, Clemson, SC 864.656.4600 The Geology Museum, located inside the Botanical Gardens, is an extraordinary museum for children to visit. Filled with collections of gems and fossils, this is an affordable way to educate your children without them even knowing it. They offer children’s programs and tours as well. You can find out more about what to expect before your visit in our KAG review of the Bob Campbell Geology Museum.
Experience the Rodeo at T. Ed Garrison Arena
T. Ed Garrison Arena 1101 West Queen Street, Pendleton, SC The T. Ed Garrison Arena on Clemson’s campus is home to many bull-riding events and horse shows throughout the year. The large arena is one of the most popular in the United States for these events, and also hosts dog shows, poultry shows, medieval combat national championships, and rodeos for children to enjoy.
Enjoy Hiking and Waterfalls at Clemson Experimental Forest
937-941 Old Six Mile Rd, Central, SC 864.656.4833 The Clemson Experimental Forest is a 17,500-acre area designed for use as a natural resource management “living lab.” It is open to the public and includes hiking trails–including several that lead to waterfalls! Don’t forget to download your trail map before you go exploring. You can also find additional hiking and water activities close to campus at the Larry W. Abernathy Waterfront Park.
Some Additional Fun Things to Do near Clemson University
Where is Clemson University Located?
Clemson University is about 45 minutes west of Greenville and just about 30 minutes from the Georgia state line. The University sits on the the outskirts of Lake Hartwell and is one of the most popular destinations in Upstate, South Carolina due to the University’s status. The downtown Clemson area features the campus, with restaurants and local shops dotted throughout. You can find a great map of Clemson’s campus on their website: map of Clemson University.
If you need a fun day trip to a little park on the shores of Lake Keowee, Mile Creek Park in Pickens, SC is a great option. If you’re looking for a simple little park with a small beach and access to crystal-clear water on a super hot day. That’s what Mile Creek Park is like. Kidding Around’s Kristina reviews it for us.
Perfect Location + Things to Do at Mile Creek County Park
I see parents asking for fun places to swim with their kids in the Upstate and this is a fantastic option. Located on the shores of Lake Keowee, a huge man-made lake that spans several small towns in the Upstate, it has lots of amenities that make it easy for families to spend a day out there.
Watch! Here’s What Mile Creek County Park Looks Like
Swimming Area and Playground
The sandy beach is small and easily manageable with kids. The swimming area is warm and shallow. There’s a playground with slides and swings right next to the beach if your kids need something else to do besides play in the water.
There is a big shelter up the hill from the beach plus charcoal grills scattered around the park. Clean bathrooms are a short walk from the playground and thankfully have a spout outside to clean the sand off your shoes, feet, and water toys.
Boating and Fishing
If you’ve got a boat, there are three boat ramps available at Mile Creek. You will see fishermen fishing off boats not too far from shore.
I have a couple of inflatable kayaks we used the day we went and put in right at the beach. We paddled to the island directly across from Mile Creek Park and down the small coves on either side of the park. It was awesome.
We saw plenty of people fishing from their boats as well if that’s something you enjoy doing with your kids. Be sure to have your South Carolina fishing license.
Sand Volleyball and Basketball Courts
The park also has a volleyball sand court and basketball court that you can play at before or after a swim. The basketball court is covered, so it’s a great way to get out of the sun for a little while.
Camping & Cabins
If you love to camp, there are plenty of tent sites available. Camping near water is such a fun family activity in warmer weather since entertainment is right outside your tent. Of course, this can be a source of anxiety if your kids can’t swim yet so consider that before making reservations.
The website for the park states that kayak rentals are available for cabin and campground users but you’ll have to contact the park to make those arrangements.
There are also 10 lake-front rental cabins with boat ramp access. There is a tiny beach on the lake by the cabins as well. And 69 campsites are at the park as well with both waterfront and non-waterfront locations. These campsites are for RV camping, boat in camping, and there are two tent camping spots with electric. The campsite has 3 bathhouses serving overnight campers, so you will have bathroom access.
Cabins can fit up to four people, with some cabins being able to hold an additional four children. Cabins start around $115 per night. Campsites start at $20 per night. See available campsites at Mile Creek Park at this link.
Fees + Our Tips for Visiting Mile Creek Park
Seems like everyone wants to be outside nowadays and are taking to parks, lakes, and campsites to fulfill their outdoorsy dreams. This is great. However, it means that you can’t get to an awesome park at Noon or 1 pm on a weekend and expect to get in and find parking. Get here early! It will ensure you are able to enter the park and spend a great day there.
Arrive Early!
On my most recent trip, I got to Mile Creek Park at 9 am on a Sunday and had the place to ourselves besides a few boaters getting in the water. By Noon, it looked like all the parking lots were full. I think there are at least three parking lots at Mile Creek. It’s not a huge place so it can fill quickly, especially on those brutally hot summer days.
Bring $5 for Parking
There isn’t admission cost per se but there is a parking fee of $5 per car. If you plan to visit more frequently or live close by, we recommend purchasing the annual pass for $35 per car. The booth wasn’t manned the day we were there and thankfully I had $5 cash to put in the envelope and drop it in the box. Be prepared with exact change just in case.
Plan Ahead and Bring a Picnic
You can also rent the picnic shelter for $55 for the entire day, perfect for a family gathering!
I highly recommend this fun park and being that it’s only an hour from Greenville, it makes for an easy and fun day trip. We brought lunch, blow-up tubes, water, towels, and our inflatable kayaks and spent all day there!
Have you been to Ripley’s Mirror Maze? Gatlinburg in the winter is a different sort of town than Gatlinburg in the summer, and one of the things you don’t want to miss is Ripley’s Mirror Maze.
Thank you to Ripley’s for providing tickets for this review.
Purchasing via this link allows a small amount of the proceeds to go to Kidding Around Greenville.
When we took our recent adventure to the mountain town, we found it sleepy and quiet and that’s exactly the way we liked it. Traffic was minimal (except for the weekend) and the streets were not overcrowded and the restaurants had no wait time. Again – that’s exactly what we love – especially when we are always a party of six (at least) and generally tables for six are not as readily available at peak times.
We had some great laughs and funny moments at several other stopping points along the Gatlinburg streets.
Find a place to stay in Gatlinburg, TN. This article contains Stay22 affiliate links.
Ripley’s Marvelous Mirror Maze
The first choice for us, after visiting the aquarium, was to walk down the street to Ripley’s Marvelous Mirror Maze. The Mirror Maze is right on Gatlinburg’s main street and it’s very easy to walk from anywhere you park in town. (Lucky for us, we just left our car in the aquarium parking lot, which was convenient.)
The lobby of the mirror maze features two gigantic walls of candy so – you know – parents beware. Your kids will definitely ask for candy. You can say no, naturally. I didn’t want to purchase pounds of sugar and food dye and banana-flavored everything, but I also remember what it was like as a kid to be looking at a WALL of dreamy candy so I offered a quick compromise to my band of kids. “Everyone can pick two pieces of candy,” I told them. Oddly enough, they were thrilled and quite satisfied. So they each chose literally two single pieces of candy – and we were all content. A little sugar versus begging and copious amounts of sugar. Or, again – you can just say no. Isn’t it funny, parents? You really do get the choice.
We were kind of extra excited about the concept of a mirror maze because most of us have been reading the book series of The Mysterious Benedict Society and the kids in the novel series are always facing challenges and puzzles and this mirror maze felt like our own challenge and puzzle.
The employees told us to put on plastic gloves that they provided – gigantic, ill-fitting plastic gloves – so that we would be more hygienic as we touched the mirrors that every other guest has most assuredly been touching as well. I tried to avert my thoughts from the finger touched mirrors and just tried to think of the fun of conquering a maze with my children.
We decided to all hold hands to add to our experience and because we genuinely thought we might face the possibility of getting lost from one another inside the maze.
That probably wouldn’t have happened.
The mirrors were everywhere – as they should be in a maze – and they certainly played tricks on your mind as to which direction to turn and which door to take and where to go next.
There was an “infinity” room that made me laugh a lot – mostly because of the song blaring – was it Journey? – and the lights flashing and the disco ball. All those quirky details, you know.
Our technique of making it through the maze was rather effective as we found the ending in record time. But, because we liked the mirrors and we wanted more of a challenge, we decided to pretend we didn’t find the exit and kept trucking through the corners and the twists and the turns all over again just for fun.
Also, we discovered a fundamental truth concerning mirror mazes. Fundamental, I tell you. It is this: You should choose your outfit wisely and fix your hair carefully before entering said mirror maze. Because you are going to be seeing yourself from every angle. Every. Angle. And you’re going to want to leave this mirror maze with some self-respect intact. Every. Angle.
[clickToTweet tweet=”‘Also, we discovered a fundamental truth concerning mirror mazes. Fundamental, I tell you. ‘” quote=”‘Also, we discovered a fundamental truth concerning mirror mazes. Fundamental, I tell you. ‘” theme=”style3″]
There you go. I’ve covered the walls of candy and the dress yourself correctly bits. They were important.
As far as the maze itself goes, it really was lots of fun. It was speedy, though. And that’s a little hard to swallow to spend money to be in and out of an attraction in ten minutes or less. When you buy the Mirror Maze as part of the an add-on ticket, it hurts a little less.
In Review
I’d say the key to all Gatlinburg attractions is the same, keep your expectations in line. Recognize that this is not Disney. This is Gatlinburg, Tennessee. These are mirror mazes and world record museums and 5D moving theaters on a street in a mountain town. A town that sells footlong corn dogs at place called Fannie Farkle’s for the same price that you can buy two kids’ meals at Chick-fil-A.
Be reasonable, guys.
If you are visiting Gatlinburg for the second (or thirtieth) time, you already know this.
And you’re okay with it.
You’re making these return trips to Pigeon Forge and to Gatlinburg, to the cabins and to the go cart rides, to the outlets and to the pancake houses, because it’s nostalgic, because you first came to Gatlinburg as a kid with your Memaw and your Pepaw, because you brought your toddlers here and you remember how big their eyes grew when they first ordered their silver dollar pancakes at the Pancake Pantry and rode their first roller coaster at Dollywood.
You like the idea of returning to the same quirky streets that seem like they never change, old time photo shops on every corner and a gem store and wooden guns and beanie babies. That’s why you come to Gatlinburg.
So you stroll through the mirror maze and you let the kids buy a couple of pieces of candy and you stop in for the free fudge samples (always take the free fudge, people) and you admire the hand-crafted wooden knives and you buy the funnel cake and you stack up those memories and that nostalgia for all its worth.
Expectations, friends. Most adventures fare better when you can manage your expectations.
Purchasing via this link allows a small amount of the proceeds to go to Kidding Around Greenville.
Are you traveling to Gatlinburg / Pigeon Forge? See our other travel reviews:
Have you experienced the overwhelming wonder of the Atlanta Georgia Aquarium? It is truly awe-inspiring, being the largest aquarium in the US! We were able to visit with the Georgia Aquarium Residence Pass, however, you can visit any time by purchasing a day pass. Find everything you need, including Georgia Aquarium reviews, photos, and even parking and hotel information, so you can make your trip an epic adventure.
Where to Stay Near the Georgia Aquarium
Planning an overnight trip? Use the map below to find the perfect lodging near the Georgia Aquarium. Through an affiliate relationship with Stay22, Kidding Around earns when booking through the map and links in this section.
During a previous visit, we stayed at the Renaissance Atlanta Midtown Hotel, which we recommended because of the hotel’s great location and comfort. Another great option is Home 2 Suites Midtown. The CNN Tower, World of Coca-Cola, Centennial Park, the Peachtree Center and a new Ferris wheel attraction are all located within easy walking distance of both of these hotels.
Watch! Our Visit to the Biggest Aquarium in the US!
Our Day Trip to Georgia Aquarium
For our day trip to the Georgia Aquarium, we brought along our five-year-old and two-year-old, because we knew this would be a fantastic memory for them. We purchased our tickets ahead of time with our residence pass, but you can purchase tickets in advance for cheaper than same day tickets through the online portal! Ticket prices for pre-booked dates start at $39.99, but ticket prices fluctuate depending on the day you want to attend, if it’s a holiday or weekend, or if they anticipate large crowds, so keep that in mind!
We also made reservations for the dolphin show and the sea lion show on the same day as our visit. If you are looking to do these two free shows or any backstage events, make sure to pencil those in when figuring out how long you want to stay at the aquarium!
What is at the Georgia Aquarium?
Being the largest aquarium in the US means there is A LOT to explore. You’ll want to carve out at least two to three hours of your day to experience everything, but you could honestly spend longer here. When you arrive at the aquarium, you first will be asked to take a photo by staff that you can later purchase as a souvenir. Then, you’ll immediately follow a quarridore that is lined with a wall of glowing jellyfish! My kids were just ecstatic to see them glowing purple, bouncing around the elongated tank. It was the perfect start to our visit. Finally, you’ll have your tickets scanned at the entrance of the large atrium.
Galleries and Exhibits: Georgia Aquarium
Now, the hard part is usually figuring out what you want to see first! There are 8 major galleries at the Georgia Aquarium, and each is sectioned by theme. So, what animals can you see at the Georgia Aquarium? Over 500 species and over 1 million animals to explore! They have sharks, penguins, beluga whales, dolphins, and even massive whale sharks. It’s not just another aquarium. It’s like stepping into another world. And if you think that sounds melodramatic, consider some of these stats:
With more than 600,000 square feet and 10 million gallons of fresh and salt water, the Georgia Aquarium is the largest aquarium in the United States.
The Ocean Voyager exhibit is the largest indoor fish habitat in the United States. It measures 284 feet long by 126 feet wide by 30 feet deep. It contains 6.3 million gallons of water.
The viewing window into the whale shark exhibit measures 60 feet long by 27 feet high.
When we arrived in the huge atrium, we decided to work our way clockwise through the galleries so we wouldn’t miss anything. We started at SHARKS! Predators of the Deep, which was my daughter’s absolute favorite. There were tiger sharks, hammerhead sharks, silvertip sharks, and a sand tiger shark that swam around the 1.2 million gallon tank and through the circling false pilchard fishes. We even saw a hammerhead shark going into the circling and trying to catch one, which we were told was because of electromagnetic signals being released from one of the false pilchards that was older or sick.
Before our scheduled show at Dolphin Coast, We worked our way through the several exhibits on the bottom floor, which took us a little over an hour. You’ll want extended time at the Ocean Voyager Built by Home Depot exhibit. Here, you can ride down a conveyor belt under a 100-foot tunnel. This part is exciting, but make sure little feet stay off the edges of the belt so they do not fall. You can choose to walk beside it as well, which is nice if you want to stop and take a closer look at the rays and fish swimming overhead.
The epic part of Ocean Voyager is the large seating area you’ll find toward the end of the gallery. You can lounge on the stairs under the glow of the huge aquarium, watching the whale sharks swim by. This is a great place to park it for a little bit after a long day of walking around. We sat here for almost 20 minutes listening to the presenter give us facts about what is inside the tank, while also playing a game of who could spot Gulper.
Here is a full list of the exhibits and key features at the Georgia Aquarium, so you can decide where to start!
Aquanaut Adventure– Newer exhibit with alligators, lizards, eels, and a Discovery Zone touch pool
Cold Water Quest – Home to beluga whales, sea otters, African penguins, Pacific octopus, and more.
Dolphin Coast – Dolphins (including the theatre), spoonbill, spiny lobster, and scarlet ibis.
Ocean Voyager– The largest exhibit, offers whale sharks, rays, sharks, tons of fish, and a place to relax.
Predators of the Deep– A variety of sharks with large glass walls to observe from different angles.
Tropical Diver– Coral reef exhibit and gorgeous marine life display.
Truist Peer 225– Arcade, animatronics, and the sea lion show!
Live Shows
Georgia Aquarium Dolphin Show and Sea Lion Presentation
One wonderful thing about the aquarium is that you can get up close and personal with many of the animals, all included in your admission ticket! We had such a fun time at the dolphin and sea lion shows, which are free and run at various times throughout the day.
My 5-year-old and I opted to sit in the splash seats for both shows, and we were giggling the entire time waiting to get splashed, especially when the dolphins sent a wave of water right at us. But don’t worry, the majority of the seats are out of the splash zone.
During both shows, we learned about how they train the animals and what the animals are like in the wild, and we saw a spectacular showcase of their skills. During the sea lion show, we sat closest to Katie, the oldest sea lion resident and watched her and her trainer show off their dancing skills and tricks. My two-year-old was squealing when each sea lion showed off how loud they could be, it was hilarious!
Both the dolphin show and the sea lion show take about 15-20 minutes each, so make sure your little ones go to the bathroom ahead of time so you do not lose your seats. You will also want to arrive about 10 minutes early to get the best seats, they fill up very quickly!
You will want to make reservations the day of to confirm seats for the Dolphin Coast dolphin show and the sea lion show, though they are free to attend.
Quick Facts: Things to Know Before Your Visit
Hours of Operation
The Georgia Aquarium is open year-round, but hours do vary. Visit the aquarium website for specific hours on the day you plan to visit. You are welcome to leave the aquarium after you enter, just make sure you get your arm stamped at the customer service counter before you leave.
Georgia Aquarium Tickets
Ticket Prices
The aquarium uses a timed ticketing system, which means you will be given a time at which you can enter the aquarium. This keeps the facility from becoming overcrowded. Tickets cost more at peak times like weekends and holidays. Be sure to check the website for the date you plan to visit.
General Admission Tickets
When you purchase tickets ahead of time, you get a discount, so remember that! Ticket prices vary by the day you want to attend with the lowest, least busy days having $39.99 admission tickets. You can purchase most Plan Ahead and Save tickets for $39.99, or purchase Anytime General Admission tickets for $64.99. We recommend purchasing ahead of time and looking at their booking calendar to get the best price. You can also purchase an annual membership if you plan to visit more than once.
If you want to do special animal encounters or events, you can purchase tickets to those ahead of time. They do sell out sometimes because of limited ticket availability, so book early. Prices for animal encounters start at $80 per person, and there are age restrictions.
Georgia Aquarium Parking
Parking is available in the attached parking deck and costs $20 per day. The World of Coca-Cola and CNN Tower are within walking distance, so you could plan an entire day of attractions for one parking price. There’s also a nice playground area in Centennial Olympic Park if the kids just need some downtime.
Coastline Cafe: Cafe at the Aquarium
On the second floor you’ll find the new Coastline Cafe, where you can dine in. Most of the food is American food, like chicken nuggets and burgers. It can be pretty expensive to dine here, so we chose to bring along sandwiches to enjoy during our break outdoors on the grass between World of Coca-Cola and the aquarium.
Wheelchairs, Strollers, and Babies
The entire aquarium is wheelchair and stroller accessible. However, strollers are NOT permitted in the Dolphin Coast theater. There is a “stroller parking” area available for use during the show.
You’ll find a private nursing pod for mothers available on the second floor.
Sensory bags are also available at Guest Services if you would like them for you or your child.
Restaurants near the Georgia Aquarium
You are able to leave the aquarium and come back, so why not check out some of the best restaurants near the Georgia Aquarium that are within walking distance? The Atlanta Breakfast Club is just down the street, and has some of the best Southern breakfast food around! Have a kid who will only eat pizza? Then Head to Max’s Coal Oven Pizzeria. They have delicious pizza, plus vegetarian and vegan options. You will not want to miss out on the crispy chicken and fries from Rocks!
Tips for visiting the Georgia Aquarium
Bring a stroller or carrier if you have little ones, because there is a lot of walking involved.
Be sure to reserve a dolphin show or sea lion show, it is worth it and great for younger kids.
Pack your lunch and leave it in a cooler in the car to save some money.
If you want to leave and come back to the aquarium, be sure to get your hand stamped.
Don’t forget to use your Georgia Aquarium military discount on their Military Free Days to get free entry and 30% off for your family!
The gift shop has some great stuff, and you have to exit through it, so make sure to budget for a souvenir. Pro gift shop tip: Collect something small from gift shops you visit throughout all your travels like a magnet, postcard, or Christmas Tree ornament. Everyone in your family will know they are on the hunt for the perfect item to add to that collection and you’ll stay far away from the expensive toys, stuffed animals, and apparel.
My Honest Opinion of the Georgia Aquarium: Review
The Georgia Aquarium as a mom of two young kids is so worth it! There is so much to do and see that the trip is absolutely a core memory maker. There are animals at the Georgia Aquarium that you will most likely never see in your lifetime. Plus, the vast amount of scientific research and conservation efforts that is conducted is helping us learn more about these animals to aid in reversing their wild population decline. My kids were in awe, and so was I.
The aquarium staff are friendly and helpful, and we had zero issues throughout the entire day there. It’s a great family vacation idea, because the city of Atlanta has so much to offer. It is worth the 2.5-hour drive from Greenville, SC, and makes the perfect day trip!
Plan your own visit!
Georgia Aquarium 225 Baker Street NW Atlanta, GA 30313 404.581.4000
What was your family’s favorite part of the Georgia Aquarium?
Do you have a family adventure to Six Flags Over Georgia in Atlanta, GA planned for this summer? We checked it out and have all the info you need to have a fun day there with your family. Complimentary tickets were provided for this review.
Six Flags Over Georgia is one of the few theme parks not far from Greenville, SC that provides thrilling rides with heart-pounding excitement mixed with more gentle rides for smaller kids, concessions, events, and shows. Here’s what you need to know when planning a trip there with your family. This review is a compilation of two trips to Six Flags Over Georgia.
Roller coaster at Six Flags Over America
Stay Near Fix Flags
Use the map below to find great lodging near Six Flags Over Georgia. Through an affiliate relationship with Stay22, Kidding Around earns when you book through this map.
About Six Flags Over Georgia
The theme park is located a little less than three hours from the Upstate, depending on traffic, in the Atlanta metro area. It’s a massive park with 40+ rides. Hurricane Harbor is the water park inside of Six Flags Over Georgia that opens Memorial Day weekend.
Like other theme parks, Six Flags Over Georgia offers a Flash Pass, a way to get to do more rides without waiting in lines. These are add-ons to your one-day ticket and start at $60.
Getting to Six Flags Over Georgia
The first thing to remember about Six Flags Over Georgia is that it is basically in Atlanta, which means traffic. We suggest getting there a little before the park opens so you have enough time to get on the rides on you want. If you’re doing this as a day trip, you need to allow around 3-3.5 hours to get there.
We followed the directions from the Six Flags site; and they recommend taking 85S to 285W, then 20W, which takes you right to the park. Make use of your GSP though in case of backups and look at alternate routes. And bring your patience.
Parking at Six Flag Over Georgia
Parking was a breeze. There are multiple ticket booths where you can have your parking pass scanned or purchase parking. We recommend purchasing parking beforehand just to save time. They do offer Speedy Parking and Preferred Parking for an extra fee. The lot is large but there is zero shade so be sure to bring one of those reflector things for your car if you don’t want to open an oven when you get back. And pay attention to where you park so you can find your car after a long day of coasters.
Sky Screamer at Six Flags Over Georgia
There are also three tram pick-up locations in the parking lots that will shuttle you to the front entrance. We walked from Lot 1 and were to the entrance before people that we saw waiting for the tram. De[ending on where you park, it’s not a long walk.
Be sure to have your tickets ready to be scanned for easy entrance. It is a thousand times easier to buy tickets beforehand and have them on your phone than wait in the Will Call/Ticket line. We went in the early afternoon and the line took a really long time, almost 30 minutes.
Plan of Attack for Rides at Six Flags Over Georgia
We recommend downloading the Six Flags Over Georgia app because it’s awesome. You can easily pull up locations of rides, shopping, and dining options. You can see how tall you must be to ride the rides and the wait times for each ride. There’s also a really handy map, which had a blue dot so you can see where you are in relation to where you want to be.
If you have more than a few people in your family, look at the app before you go or the Six Flags website to figure out what rides you want to ride on and height requirements and make a list of the ones you really want to do and go to those first. We found that the longer we were at Six Flags, the longer the wait times were. There are also screens around the park to check the wait times.
Great American Scream Machine
Also, look at a map beforehand because you’ll need it when you try to figure out which rides to go on and where they are in relation to the other rides you don’t want to miss. Also, check out the app to see if any rides are closed.
The Food at Six Flags Over Georgia
Six Flags offers different Dining Passes that you can add onto your tickets, which I honestly love. I think these are just good options when it comes to planning out your day if its in your budget. The 2024 Dining Pass options are: One Meal/One Snack/One Beverage is $20.99/person and the Unlimited All Day Dining Deal where you get one meal of your choice every 90 minutes and get an All Day Drink Bottle is $44.99/person.
They also offer a one day drink bottle with unlimited refills for $19.99/each. If you want to do this option, go right when the park opens or you get there otherwise you could end up waiting in long lines or wandering around for a long time trying to find someplace that isn’t sold out of them. Honestly, this is the clincher because Georgia summers are dreadfully hot and we saw no water fountains. I even brought refillable water bottles in my tiny bag for that purpose but didn’t see anywhere were I could fill them. That refillable day bottle is worth it.
There are a lot of different options for dining like taverns, cheesesteaks, burgers, BBQ, a even a diner. Try to go on off times, like not right at Noon or 1pm for lunch because lines are long. And look at the festivals they offer every year where you can try different food, like Brews & Bites every weekend April 20-May 19, 2024.
Also, try to plan your food adventures around your most thrilling rides. For example, maybe do the more heart-pounding in the morning before you go eat a chili cheese dog for lunch. Just a thought.
If you want to bring a lunch to eat in your car to save money, you can definitely do that. Be sure to get a re-entry wristband on your way out so you can get back in.
Rides at Six Flags Over Georgia
I have one more adventurous daughter and another more timid one when it comes to roller coasters, which certainly made the day challenging. We ended up riding a fun, smaller roller coaster, the Dahlonega Mine Train. It’s a good intro into the faster rides and is perfect for younger kids who are not quite ready to try the big ones, and has a height requirement of 42 inches.
We also rode the country cars, which I let my youngest drive. Of course, driving any car for kids is going to be fun. There are so many fantastic roller coasters that I wanted to really get in on the scream fest but will have to wait for another time!
Six Flags Over Georgia car ride
I’m a complete adrenaline junkie when it comes to roller coasters and have not met a roller coaster I didn’t love. The ones I really wanted to try were: Goliath, Superman, Georgia Scorcher, Batman, and Twisted Cyclone. Most of these had long, long waits – around 60 minutes at minimum – by the afternoon on a Saturday. This is why you need to plan what you want to really want to ride on and go there first unless you can swing a Flash Pass.
There are lots of great kid-focused rides like smaller Ferris Wheel-types, swings, and a beautiful carousel. Monster Mansion is a great one because the dark boat ride is a nice break out of the heat.
Water Park at Six Flags Over Georgia
At Hurricane Harbor, the water park found inside Six Flags Over Georgia, we rented a large locker. There are small, large, and jumbo, with the bigger the locker, the higher the cost. Then we headed for the wave pool to cool off. There are plenty of life jackets for kids that may need them and they have multiple sizes. My son had a great time in the wave pool, but the large Paradise Island structure was calling his name, and we went there to watch him play.
Now, anyone that has lived around this area for a while knows that the weather is very unpredictable in the early evening hours. And while the entire day had been virtually cloudless to this point, all of a sudden a thunderstorm came through. The water park was immediately shut down, so we changed back into our regular clothes.
Unfortunately, in the time, we were changing a severe storm warning was issued, and all of the rides in the park were turned off. We quickly left the water park area and stopped in a t-shirt shop for about 15 minutes. When the weather broke, we took off again, and got ice cream while the rain started again.
Ultimately it was getting rather on into the evening, with no indication that rides would start up again anytime soon. From the time they shut down the water park at 5 pm, and we got back to our car at 6:30 pm, no rides were running. It was a nice cool down, though.
Six Flags Over Georgia’s rain policy according to their website is: “There are still a ton of activities that are amazingly fun in any kind of weather––including indoor shows, restaurants, shops, games, and arcades. If rain, wind, or electrical storms force us to close certain rides for your safety, they will re-open as soon as safe operations can be assured. Refunds or rain checks for inclement weather are not offered.”
So, our day was cut somewhat short. We had a great time prior to the storm, and my son said he really liked Six Flags a lot. I think we will probably wait until he’s a bit older to go again, however, as the biggest attractions at Six Flags Over Georgia are the roller coasters. There are a lot of them.
Parent Tips: Six Flags Over Georgia
While we mentioned many tips in this story, here are a few others:
Bring/ear sun protection. It’s hot and you’ll get sunburned if you don’t have sunscreen or rain protection.
Download the Six Flags Over Georgia app for helpful info on rides, wait times, and a map.
The park is huge so plan which rides you want to go on and do them first. If you can afford it, get a FLASH Pass so you can enjoy even more rides.
Get the refillable water bottle. Dehydration is not fun.
While the park does have a lot of kid and family-focused rides, I think it’s best for kids closer to age 10 and up who love adventure and roller coasters. For most of more moderately intense rides, kids need to be at 48 inches for the medium coasters and 54 inches for the bigger ones.
Go early! Plan to spend the day there if it’s a day trip and leave the Upstate early.
If your kid wants to see some Looney Tunes characters, be sure to check the schedule of appearances when you get there.
Get tickets ahead of time online. You’ll save both time and money.
Look at the dress code before you go, especially for the waterpark: “All guests must wear proper attire, such as bathing suits or board shorts. Thongs, G-strings, or transparent swimwear are not permitted.”
You can bring bags and small backpacks into the park but not on the rides. You can either get a locker for a fee or leave them on the platform.
Visit Six Flags Over Georgia
Tickets start at $42 online (or $79.99 at the gate) and change depending on the date you want to go. It’s absolutely better to get the tickets online versus when you go. You can purchase a refillable water bottle, FLASH passes, and parking ($35+) online as well when you purchase your ticket.
Season passes start at $49/person. If you go more than once, a season pass is certainly a good deal, especially if you purchase the Platinum Level ($95/person), which includes parking.
Forty-five minutes west of Greenville is Clemson, home not only to Clemson University but also to the South Carolina Botanical Garden, a perfect day-trip destination this spring. The colorful spring foliage and cool temperatures will ensure a memorable visit to one of the premiere Gardens of the Upstate! KAG Contributor, Liene, shares all about this beautiful (and free!) destination.
At just under 300 acres in size, the South Carolina Botanical Gardens encompass everything from natural landscapes to display gardens, including miles of streams, nature trails and the 70-acre Schoenike Arboretum. Home to over 300 varieties of camellias, the Gardens also have an extensive collection of hollies, hydrangeas, magnolias and native plants. Although there are multiple points of access, parking in the lot off Pearman Blvd. closest to the Heritage Garden will put you in the center of this gorgeous botanical treasure.
Cadet Life Garden
Upon entering visitors will find themselves in is the Cadet Life Garden, a nod to the period in Clemson history during which the University was a military college. Over those sixty years (until 1956), 12,314 students graduated; of those nearly 10,000 became Reserve Officers, about 5,600 saw active military service, and 335 died or were missing in action while fighting for their country. (Source: informational plaques in the Garden).
Caboose Garden
After trying out one of the swings, follow the shaded pergola to the 1939 Caboose Garden. George Williams, Assistant Vice President and Treasurer of Southern Railway (as well as a graduate of the class of ’39) donated the caboose to Clemson, after which it was painted red, transported to its current spot, making a perfect playground (and photo op!) for those budding train enthusiasts.
After a meander in the Heritage Garden you’ll emerge near the Children’s Garden. With greenhouses, a “Food for Thought” Garden and several other interesting spaces, the kids will find plenty to explore. The Peter Rabbit Garden features a cute little playhouse, perfect for an imaginary afternoon tea.
Butterfly Garden
Adjacent is the butterfly garden, where you will find quite a few different species of butterflies fluttering about, attracted to the early spring blooms. The bog section has really cool pitcher plants; let the kids check to see if they are digesting any insects!
Duck Pond & Camellia Trail
A loop around Duck Pond on a nice wooded trail takes visitors around to the Camellia Trail. Benches scattered here and there allowed for chances to stop and rest, have a snack and enjoy the view. Hopefully you’ll spot some migrating waterfowl in addition to the frogs, lizards, turtles and even snakes that call this area home.
Flower Display Garden
The Flower Display Garden is also on this end of the garden, and you should definitely stop in to see what is blooming before taking one of the dozens of trails back towards the Heritage Garden. If you continue past the parking area you’ll come to Kelly Meadow and the Meadow Pond, a beautiful panorama with a backdrop of the forest.
In addition to a walk through the gardens, you might also be interested in the following attractions:
Fran Hanson Discovery Center & Gift Shop
On the very west end of the Gardens (past Kelly Meadow) is the Fran Hanson Discovery Center & Gift Shop. Built in 1998 as “The Wren House,” it was the first Southern Living Idea House. The second floor houses an art gallery that showcases local artists.
Campbell Geology Museum
The Campbell Geology Museum offers houses a collection of more than 10,000 minerals, rocks and fossils, a great activity for a rainy autumn day. And admission is free! The museum is open Monday – Sunday 10 am to 5 pm.
Cactus Gardens
The cactus gardens between the gift shop and the Geology Museum are interesting year-round, and the historical mining artifacts mixed in offer kids a fun game of “I Spy.”
Shoenike Arboretum
The Shoenike Arboretum features the legacy of Dr. Schoenike, who during his career at Clemson planted, cared for, and studied some 2000 trees and shrubs in the arboretum.
Plan your own trip to the SC Botanical Garden
There is always something going on in the garden! From concerts to hikes, homeschool days to wreath-making, there is something for everyone… Check the event calendar for more information.
Truly a state treasure hidden away in a corner of the Upstate, the SC Botanical Gardens are a must-see destination for visitors and residents alike. Spring is a favorite time of year to visit, although autumn also brings cooler temperatures, fewer insects and of course the colorful leaves while summer the gardens are in full bloom. Grab the kids and go explore, you’ll be sure to see something new on each trip!
If the idea of touring the Biltmore Estate in Asheville with your kids sounds daunting, have no fear. We lay out all kinds of things you can do at the estate – most of them don’t even involve visiting the house itself. I’ve been several times and had so many questions initially, but every time I’ve gone, I learn more and explore more of the 8,000+ acres – and fall in love with the Biltmore just a bit more.
Biltmore: It’s a real-life castle
Have you ever daydreamed of visiting a real-life castle? Touring the halls and stately rooms, being transported to a different time and place, experiencing the luxurious life? How about touring the castle vineyard, visiting the stables, exploring the renowned gardens? Well, you don’t have to hop on a plane for Europe to set your eyes upon gargoyles and ball gowns, just head to the Biltmore Estate in Asheville, a picturesque castle with over 8,000 acres, 250 rooms, and a hundred years of history.
Regardless of whether you are a pass holder or visiting for the day, if you want to tour the house, you need to reserve a time online. Be sure to print out your confirmation email, since you’ll need to show the staff before they let you in. And get there at least 45 minutes before your scheduled tour time to allow for parking and either taking a shuttle to the house or walking over via the trails.
Is Biltmore Worth It?
Many parents ask if taking the kids through the house is worth it, which is a valid question. If you don’t reserve a guided tour (an extra cost), you’ll automatically be doing the self-guided tour, which you can go at your own pace but will be following a crowd. Even though the house is just stunning and seeing the grandeur of the rooms is amazing, some kids will be bored. And if you have little kids, you need to keep them with you and not let them run behind the roped-off sections.
I first took my kids to the house when they were 7 and 3 and we didn’t make it through the whole tour because one of them needed to use the restroom – which you must do before you enter the house as there are no bathrooms inside for guests. Bathrooms are located near the Stable Cafe to the right of the house outdoors.
The second time we went was a couple of years later and we got through most of the house, maybe because it was Christmastime and the decorations were mesmerizing. Now, my kids are 9 and 13 and we go every Christmas and they truly enjoy it.
The Biltmore offers an audio tour ($15) for kids, narrated by the Vanderbilt’s dog, Cedric, which they may find entertaining.
Either way, be prepared to bail if you need to. There’s a lot to do on the estate besides the house, no matter how gorgeous it is. The Biltmore ticket system requires you to choose a House ticket or a Grounds & Gardens ticket. The House ticket includes the Grounds but a Grounds & Gardens ticket does not include the House tour.
Biltmore Gardens
I’ve taken so many walks through the Biltmore Gardens and just can’t get enough. They were designed by the father of modern-day landscaping, Frederick Law Olmstead, and are breathtaking.
I thought Spring was my favorite season there as the tulips and daffodils light up the pathways. Then I thought early summer was my favorite because of the beautiful rose garden and azalea garden. Then I decided Fall was my favorite because of the colorful mums that were planted in mesmerizing patterns.
Biltmore sunflowers
But after I took walks and bike rides along the sunflower fields near Antler Hill Village in the late summer and early Fall, I just figured I’d get a season pass so I could visit whenever I wanted.
I can’t decide on when all the flowers are the most gorgeous so you’ll just have to go for yourself to see them.
Your House and Grounds & Gardens tickets both include access to the gardens, the walking trails, and the Conservatory. You don’t need a reserved time to walk through the gardens, you just go when you want.
Antler Hill Village: Biltmore with Kids
Antler Hill Village is my favorite place at the Biltmore Estate because it’s filled with lots of kid-friendly things to do and it’s all included with admission.
The Farmyard is a small farm area where kids are welcome to pet the animals. They have goats (baby goats come March of every year!), chickens, horses, and pigs. On some occasions, they have had border collie sheep herding demonstrations, which are fun to watch.
Next to the farm is the Pisgah Playground, a big play area with swings, slides, and climbing structures. It’s a great place to let the kids enjoy a beautiful day outside.
And up the hill a little ways from the playground is the Antler Hill Barn where craft demonstrations take place every Thursday-Sunday. I love this area as the staff are so kind and engaging with the kids. There is also a little cafe with beer and wine so I’ve had a beer while watching my kids do crafts or play there. It’s a perfect place to relax. There are also restrooms at the barn.
You can also pick up several hiking trails at Antler Hill Village right behind the barn and wander past the fields with cows and pens with goats. Grab a map at the Outdoor Center near the barn.
Also in Antler Hill Village is the Winery. We’ve actually done grape-stomping there before, which was a blast. From the village, you enter the winery in the main square and get to walk through an underground tunnel to get to the tasting room and shopping area. Adults are welcome to do a complimentary wine tasting and kids can tag along and have grape juice. The servers are generous with the wine samples so take that into consideration when figuring out the best time to go!
Get Your Adventure On
The French Broad River runs right through the estate, which makes for great rafting trips. It’s a wide river with few rapids, which makes it perfect for families. The rafting trip is about two hours long and costs $50/person.
If horseback riding is on your to-do list, the Biltmore also offers guided tours of 1-10 people with a two-day advance registration. Ages 8 and up are welcome to do this activity and it costs $135/person for an hour ride through the estate.
You probably won’t be surprised the Biltmore offers carriage rides through the estate. A 60-minute carriage ride is offered Friday through Sunday and takes guests around the beautiful estate and house. Cost is $95/person and one child 5 years and younger is free per paying adult.
Fall at the Biltmore
There are more than 20 miles of biking trails at the Biltmore Estate, which run all throughout Antler Village and up to the house. You can either rent bikes ($20/bike for two hours) at the Bike Barn, which is open daily dependent on weather, or bring your own bikes and ride them at your leisure. I’ve brought my kids’ scooters and bikes and we rode the trails from Antler Hill up to the house, to the Gardens, and to the pond, and had so much fun.
The two-hour kids fly fishing lesson is at the top of my list at the Biltmore. I really want to learn how to do this and would love for my kids to have instruction (since I know nothing about it). For a private lesson at the Biltmore, it will cost you $125 per kid.
Dining with Kids at the Estate
There are several dining options at the Biltmore. The Stable Cafe right at the main house has a selection of comfort food that’s easy to grab and eat. Families also love Cedric’s Tavern in Antler Hill Village, which has typical pub fare. Consider making reservations at the sit-down places to get your preferred time.
If you’re feeling extra fancy, the Inn has Afternoon Tea, where they serve a delightful mix of sweet and savory treats, tea, and fine cheese. Prices currently are $75/person.
Antler Hill Village also has a confectionery and creamery, where you can’t possibly make a bad decision. My kids and I try to make a stop here just for their ice cream.
Also feel free to bring your own lunch or picnic and eat at the covered tables in Antler Hill Village or at any number of the beautiful open spaces around the estate.
Seasonal Fun & Exhibits
I’ve gotten to see some pretty neat exhibits at the Biltmore like the Titanic exhibit with so many of Kate Winslet’s dresses [insert completely excited face here], a fantastic train exhibit, Christmas at the Biltmore, and Chihuly at Biltmore. These special events and exhibits are incredibly well done and worth a visit.
Christmas at the Biltmore
I have started taking my daughters every year to tour the House during Christmastime because it is so beautiful. We really love checking out the 50+ Christmas trees in the House and seeing the decorations.
They are decorated in the most delicate of glass ornaments, and most likely not shatter-proof. We admired the gorgeous velvet ribbons carefully wrinkled at the right places seemingly mimicking the damask finery found in the guest rooms.
My personal favorite was a tree on the second floor, close to the Louis XV suite. Beneath the tree, a vignette of vintage toys were carefully assembled to stir any child’s imagination of toy soldiers and sugar plum fairies. Perhaps its proximity to the room where Cornelia Vanderbilt was born, was the reason for the child-friendly tree. It was a good reminder that a family once lived in this beautiful home.
The spots for the Christmas House tours usually go fast so you’ll need to reserve your preferred time and date online. They also have wildly popular candlelight tours, which I have yet to do, but would love to take in that experience sometime. Christmas at the Biltmore runs from November 2, 2024 through January 5, 2025.
Chihuly at Biltmore
Chihuly at Biltmore is an incredible collection of blown glass art from Dale Chihuly. The Biltmore has collaborated with him in the past, placing several of his gorgeous pieces around the estate in 2018. This time, his work is featured in seven galleries at Amherst in Deerpark near Antler Hill Village. The exhibit runs March 25, 2024 through January 5, 2025.
Chihuly at Biltmore
We got to go through it and take a tour with representatives from the Biltmore and Dale Chihuly’s studio, which was completely fascinating as we learned how the exhibit came about and the unbelievable preparations for it to be held in that location. The exhibit is extraordinarily unique with 33 pieces that include thousands of smaller pieces of blown glass. The creations don’t even seem real.
Chihuly has a background in weaving, which he somehow used in several of his pieces that were inspired by Native American art, which you’ll see in the second gallery. Be sure to watch the short movie about Chihuly before you head to the galleries and read the plaques because they are fascinating.
Chihuly’s knowledge of how how light interacts with glass is on display throughout the exhibit but especially in the room with the Parisian ceiling. The art is above you and the light is reflected through all of those pieces to create art on the surrounding white walls. You’ll feel transported to another world.
Chihuly at Biltmore
I kept staring at the chandelier pieces in the room next to the one with the Parisian ceiling trying to figure out how Chihuly put them together and created the nuances in color in the glass. I can’t even wrap my head around it.
The next gallery features a garden of glass flowers that looks like it is floating on water. It’s called the Millie Fiori, thousand flowers, and I advise just taking your time in here, walking around the piece and looking at every detail. Chihuly was inspired by his mother’s garden and this specific composition was designed and created specifically for the Biltmore.
Chihuly at Biltmore
The last gallery is a neon glass gallery that was inspired by tumbleweeds. It’s so unexpected because it’s not as colorful as his other pieces yet somehow flows well in the entire exhibit. The pieces are anchored in sycamore trees.
By the time we exited the gallery, I think my head was spinning (in a good way). I love art and especially glass blowing but Chihuly at Biltmore was a whole other level. His art almost cleared my head and became therapeutic because all I could consider was the beauty and awe of it. I’m grateful for the partnership the Biltmore and Dale Chihuly forged in order to bring the exhibit here. I wish I could afford even a small piece of Chihuly’s art, which you can absolutely buy in the gift shop if you’ve got the funds!
One thing to mention if you plan to bring your kids is that Chihuly designs his pieces to be see up close and enjoyed by all, which means there are no barriers around any of his art. So, parents, watch your kids closely.
Your entry ticket or annual pass does not include entry to Chihuly at Biltmore. Ticket prices are:
March 25–May 23, 2024: Starting at $125
May 24–November 1, 2024: Starting at $115
November 2, 2024–January 5, 2025: Starting at $145
$30/adult and $15/kids for pass holders
The entire exhibit is wheelchair and stroller-accessible. Plan to spend about an hour inside the exhibit galleries.
Need-to-Know Tips for Visiting Biltmore Estate
Plan to spend the day
There is plenty to see (or cut short if need be), but it would be awful to feel rushed. Many of the kid attractions close at 5 pm.
Getting around can take some time
You can drive to the Biltmore House and park in one of the several lots. Lot A is about an eight-minute walk to the house while the other lots are further away. There are shuttles to take you to the house and to Antler Hill Village. You can also take shuttles – which come about every 20 minutes – from the house to Antler Hill Village.
The Deerpark Trail from Antler Hill to the house is around three miles. You can also drive to Antler Hill and walk to the house or take the shuttle. There is a parking lot near the lagoon and trail as well if you want to park there and walk the 1.5 miles to Antler Hill or up the hill to the house and come out on the side near the gardens.
Free things to do at Biltmore
While you need a ticket to get into the Biltmore, there are lots of free things to do once there: bring your bikes and bike the trails, take a walk amongst the gardens and sunflowers, visit the Conservatory, visit the Farmyard, play on the Pisgah Playground, do a wine tasting, make a craft at the Antler Hill Barn.
Less lines mean happy kids. (Kids 16 and under are free during the summer. The rest of the year, kids 9 and younger are free.) Ticket prices start at $95 and vary depending on season. Read on to learn about the annual pass and saving money.
Bring your stroller/backpack
Strollers and backpack carriers are welcome. You will want to stick with a carrier in the house as some of the areas are difficult to navigate with a stroller.
As part of the Biltmore bag policy no backpacks are allowed on any guided tour.
Wear your walking shoes
Put everyone in comfy walking shoes and put on sunscreen as exploring the grounds is one of the best parts of the trip.
Think about getting an annual pass
An annual pass is usually $249/person and kids ages 16 and younger get in free with a passholder. They usually offer discounts on their annual pass in November (that’s when I got mine for a lot less than $249). Stay tuned to their social media and website to score a deal.
Passholder benefits are awesome, too – discounts on tickets for guests, discounts on tours, shopping, dining, and lodging, and discounts at other attractions like Chimney Rock State Park, Dollywood, Tweetsie Railroad, Mast General Store, and Grandfather Mountain.
Think a day trip escape would be a welcome change for your family? These cities and small towns near Greenville, SC will do the trick! It’s time to take a fabulous relaxing stroll down a small-town sidewalk with a coffee in hand, browse shops, get some lunch, or check out an amazing park. We love visiting new places near Upstate, SC and we love making day trip adventures for our family and readers.
If you’re looking for a fabulous town where you can spend the day, check out this list of towns that are an easy day trip from the Upstate. We have ideas for things to do, places to eat, and even places to stay if you decide to make a weekend of it.
Day Trips From Greenville, SC
There are dozens of small towns near Greenville that are perfect for a day trip. We gathered a list of some of the best where you can see something new, grab a bit to eat, and enjoy the day with your family.
Apples From Hendersonville, NC
Hendersonville, NC
Hendersonville, NC is known for apple orchards and brisk fall adventures, but it also has a fabulous small town near Greenville, SC that is full of shops, museums, parks, and more. It is just about an hour from the Upstate, making it a perfect place to spend a day away with your family.
Old Europe, Asheville, NC
Asheville, NC
A popular place to spend the day, Asheville, NC is full of things to do, a fabulous art scene, and delicious food. Asheville offers a lot for families including the WNC Nature Center and the NC Arboretum, as well as easy access to the Blue Ridge Parkway. We love Asheville for a day trip, and we also love to combine it with other WNC towns like Hendersonville, NC for a mini road trip feel.
Cashiers, NC
Cashiers, NC
If you haven’t visited the little town of Cashiers, NC, and discovered all the amazing waterfalls in Sapphire Valley, you’re missing out. Enjoy fabulous hiking and even waterfalls you can see without any hiking at all. Cashiers is one of the most beautiful places in Western North Carolina, so it is worth the trip.
Anne Springs, York County
York County, SC
In York County SC you’ll find farms and orchards to explore in the surrounding areas, plus nature parks and more fun things to do. We also have recommendations for some tasty treats you won’t want to skip!
Downtown Landrum, SC
Landrum, SC
Landrum, SC is a South Carolina border town with fabulous food and a walkable downtown area with interesting shops and antiques. There’s hiking nearby and Landrum parks to explore. The town is less than a 45 minute drive from Greenville, so you can make loose plans for a fun day.
Greer City Park, Greer, SC
Greer, SC
The Upstate’s own Greer, SC is a great place to spend the day or an afternoon and is one of the best small towns near Greenville, SC. With great shops and dining, plus a renovated downtown area and gorgeous Greer City Park, Greer should be on your list of places to visit for the day.
TRee House Cafe & Studio, Travelers Rest, SC
Travelers Rest, SC
You’ll find a wide variety of restaurants in Travelers Rest, SC plus fun coffee shops, a driving range, and more all set beside the popular Swamp Rabbit Trail. Travelers Rest is one of my family’s favorite places to go for the afternoon.
Simpsonville, SC
Simpsonville, SC
Check out several local parks in Simpsonville, SC, plus an adorable downtown area with lots of shops and restaurants. Don’t miss the train at Heritage Park.
Laurel Fork Heritage Preserve, Pickens
Pickens, SC
Want to explore the outdoors? Pickens, SC is the place to spend your day. Hike, bike, swim, and boat through the many parks and lakes in Pickens County, SC. You can enjoy Lake Keowee, head to Clemson, and check out the South Carolina Botanical Gardens, hike Table Rock State Park at the edge of the Blue Ridge Mountains, or explore the natural beauty of some of Upstate South Carolina’s most beautiful natural places.
Revolutionary War Visitors Center in Camden, SC
Camden, SC
Explore Revolutionary War history, eat delicious food, hike, shop, and more all in Camden, SC.
The Palmetto Trail through downtown Newberry, SC
Newberry, SC
Historic Newberry, SC has been named one of the “most charming small towns in America.” Find out why with a visit to the historic town, with an urban hike, museums, a Japanese Garden, and even an opera house.
Glenn Springs, SC
Glenn Springs is a historic town known for its mineral springs with healing properties. You can take a driving tour of the town, hike the Glenn Springs Passage of the Palmetto Trail, visit the Old Stone Church built in 1908, and take in the history.
Riverbanks Zoo in Columbia, SC
Columbia, SC
Spend some time in the South Carolina state capital, Columbia, SC. Enjoy the Riverbanks Zoo and don’t miss their splash pad at Waterfall Junction, or head indoors to EdVenture Children’s Museum or the Columbia Museum of Art. Columbia may be a big city, but there are so many niche areas to explore.
Track Rock Petroglyph Site, Blairsville, GA
Blairsville, GA
Blairsville, GA is a fantastic mountain town. You’ll find many places to hike and enjoy the outdoors, plus a great little downtown area, restaurants, and even a petroglyph site.
Brook Run Park, Dunwoody, GA
Dunwoody, GA
Dunwoody, GA is full of great things to do, like a visit to the Atlanta Zoo. You’ll also find great restaurants and tons more to do in this Atlanta suburb.
Looking for more day-trip ideas? Here’s our Day Trip Guide packed full of ideas for every season.
What is one of your favorite small towns near Greenville, SC?
Discover More Day Trips
Easy Day Trips: Visit These Cities and Small Towns Near Greenville, SC
Play with Goats and Hike at Carl Sandburg’s Historic Home in Flat Rock, NC
Your next family adventure should be Stumphouse Tunnel in Oconee County, SC! Local Mom Deidre and her family visited the tunnel and Issaqueena Falls near Walhalla, SC. Only about an hour and a half from Greenville, this day trip is so worth the trip. We will give you all the information you need to plan a trip to Stumphouse Tunnel with your family.
History of the Stumphouse Tunnel
Stumphouse Tunnel is the remains of a pre-civil war tunnel in Oconee County, SC. The tunnel was part of a project to link Charleston, SC with cities in the Midwest via train. However, the start of the Civil War stopped construction on the tunnel, and the tunnel was never completed. Later, in the early 1940s, the tunnel was used by Clemson University to cure its blue cheese.
The tunnel is now part of the greater Stumphouse Park, which includes Stumphouse Tunnel, Issaqueena Falls, The Palmetto Trails Stumphouse Passage, the Blue Ridge Railroad Hiking Trail, and Stumphouse Mountain Bike Park. There is a lot to do than just exploring the tunnel, so keep that in mind if you’re looking to make a full day of your trip. Fun Fact: Middle Tunnel, a tunnel system that was successfully completed just a quarter mile from Stumphouse Tunnel is now sealed off due to safety and is now flooded.
Our Trip to Stumphouse Tunnel
As we passed through the City of Walhalla, SC (the last town before getting to the park), we looked for a lunch spot. You may decide to pack a picnic lunch for the park instead of eating out like we did. There were several local places on the main street that looked tempting to us. The park is not that far out of Walhalla but most of the trek to the park was up a winding road so we had to drive super carefully around the twists and turns.
Once you enter the park the road winds sharply downward. (I was really glad that we didn’t have to share the road with cars coming out of the park. Those that do have to deal with oncoming traffic have to make tight turns.)
We followed the signs from the parking area in the park to the Stumphouse Mountain Tunnel and found that we had to park on the road leading up to the tunnel. There are parking lots close by for one of the shelters and the Issaqueena Falls area of the park.
Stumphouse Tunnel
There is a slight hill you have to climb to get to the tunnel. An older couple that arrived when we did took small steps up the hill. Small children may want to do that too.
We did not bring the right things for exploring the tunnel. Here is a list of what we should have brought:
Flashlight (It is really dark in the tunnel.)
Hat or jacket with a hood (water drips from the ceiling in the tunnel.)
Close-toed shoes (there were large puddles of water on both sides of the tunnel)
The tunnel is a cool 50 degrees all year round so definitely bring a jacket. The tunnel is incomplete. It was dug with hand tools pre-Civil War but never finished. You can walk pretty far back though, about a quarter mile. The tunnel was originally meant to be constructed as part of the Blue Ridge Railroad and after about a million dollars was dumped into it, the state of South Carolina basically gave up and refused to fund it any longer.
Issaqueena Falls
Issaqueena Falls was our next stop. Though they were close enough to walk to we chose to drive so that our car would be parked in a lot versus on the street. Since the trees have lots of leaves during summer it was a little hard to see the falls. Visibility of Issaqueena Falls would probably be best in fall after the leaves fall off the trees, however, it was still very pretty.
We all loved walking through a covered bridge on the path leading to the falls and viewing a lower area of the falls from the observation deck. There was a path that continued past the observation deck, but parents should be aware that it isn’t a maintained trail and poses safety concerns. There have been several deaths and many accidents at this waterfall so be careful and aware of your surroundings even on the marked trails.
We also saw a number of children playing and walking through a shallow stream. We decided to dip our feet in the stream too, which was big fun for the kids.
Grabbing Lunch in Walhalla After Our Hike
After all the hiking, we headed back into Walhalla for lunch. Though there we several lunch options we chose The Steak House Cafeteria. The food at The Steak House Cafeteria was down home and delicious, especially after an adventure-packed morning.
Our outing turned out to be about a half day event which was perfect for us. My family enjoyed seeing the tunnel and falls as well as a yummy lunch in Walhalla.
You can also stop by the Walhalla Fish Hatchery nearby and extend your day trip with more educational fun. And Yellow Branch Falls is a beautiful waterfall and very close to the Stumphouse Tunnel. It’s about a three-mile moderate roundtrip hike.
The Details
The tunnel and waterfall is about seven miles northwest of Walhalla on Highway 28. It is open 7 am – 6 pm and closed Christmas Day and for inclement weather.
Admission is free but there is a $5 parking fee. Bring cash. There is also a fee to reserve the picnic shelter. The park does not offer camping or drinking water, however, there are outhouse restrooms onsite. Camping is available nearby at Oconee State Park.
Thinking about making atrip to Charleston, SC to visit the South Carolina Aquarium? We were able to experience all the SC Aquarium has to offer and we’re ready to share it with you! If you’re looking for South Carolina Aquarium reviews or information on how to plan your visit, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve got all the info you need to plan your trip and have a blast with your family at the aquarium.
Thank you to the South Carolina Aquarium for providing media tickets for our review. All opinions are genuine and those of our team member.
Scenes from the South Carolina Aquarium
About the South Carolina Aquarium
In 2019, the SC Aquarium was one of ten recipients of the National Medal for Museum and Library Service, the highest honor for an aquarium to receive. They received it “not for having a massive living collection of exotic species from around the world, but for keeping its collection’s focus local.” This focus is entirely evident as soon as you step foot into the Aquarium.
If someone asked me what the focus of the Aquarium is, I’d tell them conservation and education. It is easy to see how dedicated this nonprofit is to educating the public on the local species right there in Charleston and throughout the state as well as ways to conserve the beautiful animals you’ll see.
Bald eagle at the SC Aquarium
My favorite parts of the Aquarium were the two interactive talks given by the volunteers and staff at the Aquarium, which I’ll tell you about shortly. When you visit the beautiful Aquarium, you will no doubt walk away with a greater appreciation for the different climates and environments of South Carolina as well as the incredible work being done by the Aquarium in areas of conservation and the treatment and rehabilitation of sea turtles.
The Exhibits at the SC Aquarium
The South Carolina Aquarium is the perfect sized-aquarium for really getting to understand the different exhibits and spending time learning about sharks, stingrays, sea turtles, river otters, and even the resident bald eagle, Liberty. My daughters and I took our time going through the exhibits and attending the two educational talks and in total, spent about two hours there. We probably could have stayed longer if we had a snack at the Sea Turtle Snack Bar or fed the stingrays!
Spoonbill at the SC Aquarium
There are two public floors to the aquarium: the first floor houses the sea turtle hospital, the stingray touch tank, the gorgeous balcony overlooking the USS Yorktown and the Ravenel Bridge, and the bottom level of the Great Ocean Tank. The upper level has the kids play area, the salt marsh exhibit, the jelly fish, the mountains to Piedmont exhibits, and the upper viewing area of the giant tank.
There are many hands-on exhibits all throughout the Aquarium, which really any kid will find entertaining and fun. When you enter the Aquarium, you can scan the QR code located at the visitor stand or if you would prefer to print out a copy for your visit, here is a map of the South Carolina Aquarium Exhibits.
The Educational Programs at the SC Aquarium
At the advice of the Aquarium’s public relations staff member, we timed our visit so we could see the Dive Into the G.O.T and Turtle Talk programs.
The Dive Into the G.O.T. was phenomenal! The G.O.T. stands for the Great Ocean Tank, which holds more than 350,000 gallons of water and is 42 feet deep. There is a diver inside the tank who does a question-and-answer session with an Aquarium staff member and then takes questions from the audience.
Diver at the SC Aquarium
We learned all kinds of cool things about how the volunteers and staff feed the animals in the tank, how they clean the tank, and ways to practice conservation on our own. The Turtle Talk was also amazing. The sea turtle care center is really neat and an active place where the sea turtles are taken when they are stranded or injured. Many are cared for and rehabilitated and then released back into the wild.
Sea turtle hospital at the SC Aquarium
There are also animal encounters throughout the day. We saw a couple of volunteers and staff offering guests the opportunity to pet a snake. My kids passed on that one unfortunately.
The staff we met were all so, so kind and helpful. They all seemed to really love their jobs and were happy to be working at the Aquarium. The passion they had for the animals and education about them was easy to see.
Also, to add on some more educational fun to your visit, consider doing one of these onsite activities at the Aquarium, which include scavenger hunts, discovery bins, and deeper dives into the exhibits that are grade-level appropriate – looking at you, homeschoolers.
Interacting with the Stingrays
I personally think stingrays are pretty cool and just beautiful to watch, although I’m terrified of accidentally stepping on one while wading on the shore. Yet, seeing them up close and learning about them is fascinating. All of the times I’ve ever seen them in touch tanks and aquariums, they have been very playful and fun.
Stingrays at the SC Aquarium
The ones at the SC Aquarium are no different. They have a huge tank to swim and play that overlooks the Charleston Harbor and it’s just gorgeous. The stingrays will come right up to the edge of the tank like puppies and basically beg for pets. It’s really adorable. They are a little slimy but once I got over that, I was all about it.
You can feed the ocean puppies for $5. I didn’t do that but I saw others who did and they looked like they were really enjoying the experience.
Trading Post at the SC Aquarium
I was really excited to see that the Aquarium has something called “The Trading Post”. If you’re familiar with the Nature Exchange at all at the Roper Mountain Science Center, this is a similar concept. You can bring in up to two natural items found in nature and earn points, which are redeemable for other cool things that the Aquarium has like shark teeth and pretty shells.
There are a few items that the Trading Post will not accept. This includes bird items (nest, egg, feathers), live animals, sea turtle bones, or anything else from an endangered species.
A great opportunity to find shells and fossils can be found with the Sandlapper Water Tours that launch right around the corner at the maritime center. You can go on a morning eco-tour and then head to the aquarium.
Visiting the South Carolina Aquarium
The Aquarium is located just minutes from downtown Charleston and right next to one of the places you can take a boat tour to Fort Sumter. The view from the deck is worth the experience alone!
You can purchase tickets in advance using the Aquarium’s dynamic ticketing system. Admission is determined by day of the week, school calendars, local events, weather, and holidays. You can see what the prices are for different days and purchase up to 60 days in advance.
There is an on-site gift shop as well as a snack bar, which is open 11 am – 3 pm daily. Parking is easy at the nearby Aquarium parking garage, which is $2/hour.
The Aquarium is open daily 9 am – last ticket sold at 3:30 pm and the building closes at 5 pm Closed Thanksgiving Day & Christmas Day, closes at 1 pm on Christmas Eve.
Did you know Hendersonville, NC has an aquarium? Team ECCO Aquarium and Shark Lab is located right on Main Street in Downtown Hendersonville, NC. Squeezed in beside stores, restaurants, and coffee shops, Team ECCO ‘s footprint may be small, but the education squished between those walls is massive. The aquarium’s true charm is in interactive experiences led by its knowledgeable volunteers. Here’s a bit about our visit to Team ECCO, plus everything you need to know to plan your family’s visit.
Team ECCO: Small But Mighty
“Small but mighty” is a good way to describe Team ECCO. Don’t expect to be visually wowed when you enter the aquarium, especially if you’ve visited a much larger aquarium. You won’t find floor-to-ceiling aquarium tanks here, no fancy technology or huge atriums. But you don’t need it and you won’t miss it. I promise.
What you will find at Team ECCO is a variety of reptiles, fish, sharks, rays, and marine life accompanied by a knowledgable staff and group of volunteers waiting eagerly to share their knowledge and passion with visitors.
After our visit, my husband confessed he expected we’d only spend a few minutes walking around the aquarium when he first saw the space. We were both surprised at the amount of time we spent inside discovering all of Team ECCO’s treasures. We had to drag the kids out after about an hour and a half.
Animals to See at Team ECCO
Our favorite Axolotls
Do all kids love axolotls? I am potentially raising a future herpetologist. So, the official names of all kinds of scaly, amphibian, and reptile creatures are common vernacular in our home. But, the kids tell me the axolotl is popular because of its addition to Minecraft. So perhaps your Minecrafting kids also discuss these unique salamander-like creatures. My point? There are 3 axolotls at Team ECCO and they are super cute.
Reptiles
The first animals you see when you enter Team ECCO (in fact you can see them from the window on Main Street without even paying admission) are some tortoises. We enjoyed watching them eat and move around their enclosure.
The reptile section of the aquarium also houses some box turtles, a crested gecko, a leopard gecko, and an alligator gecko. These guys are fun to watch, but make sure to ask questions. They are really interesting creatures and the staff at the aquarium has a lot of knowledge to share.
Crested gecko
Reptile Interactions
In fact, the reptile section of the aquarium includes an interaction station. Staff members remove the lizards and turtles from their enclosures to feed them vitamins and give them any care they need, but also so visitors can pet the lizards and see them up close.
You’ll get to see how different these lizards are, despite looking similar. Everything from the texture of their skin to the shape of their feet is uniquely suited to each variety of lizard and their needs.
Marine Life at Team ECCO
The bulk of the aquarium is dedicated to fish, sharks, eels, rays, and other marine life. There are probably a dozen or so tanks to observe, but once again, you’ll get the most out of your visit by asking the volunteers about the creatures you see.
There were several staff and volunteers in the room when we were there, just walking by and pointing out different things to people viewing the sea life. It made the experience very interactive, educational, and truly engaged my kids. I think they would have happily stayed until closing.
Touch Tank and Table
The marine life side of the aquarium also has a touch tank with starfish, crabs, sea urchins, and more. The tank area is manned by staff available to direct and answer questions. There is also a table set up in the middle of the space with shells and other non-living specimens that you can touch, pick up and examine.
Who Will Enjoy Team ECCO?
Is Team ECCO good for little kids?
Will my pre-teen enjoy a visit to Team ECCO?
Is Team ECCO aquarium a good place to bring the grandparents?
YES! Anyone who enjoys watching interesting animals, reptiles, and marine life will enjoy Team ECCO. Relax on the bench in front of the large tank and just watch the fish swim by, or walk around and ask every question under the sun, or just listen as aquarium staff point out interesting tidbits about the animals and marine life. Just because the aquarium is small does not mean it’s only for young kids. Far from it!
Plan Your Visit
Team ECCO is only open to the public 3 days a week.
Hours:
Thursday-Saturday: 1 pm to 4 pm
The aquarium is closed Sunday and Monday.
Tuesday and Wednesday are reserved for private programs by reservation including field trips.
Admission Cost:
$7.50 for ages 5-65
$5.25 for children ages 1 to 4
$6.50 for those over age 65
$6.50 for teachers, police, firefighters, and EMT with ID
Free for active military with ID
Groups of 8 to 12 can take advantage of a special group rate
511 North Main Street, Hendersonville, NC Team ECCO
Team ECCO in the News! Can a stingray mate with a shark?
Team ECCO is getting national attention for their expecting stingray, Charlotte. This is rather mysterious because the aquarium does not have a male sting ray. How does this happen?
One possibility is a phenomenon called Parthenogenesis where the mother essentially clones herself. This is rare but possible with sharks and rays.
The other possibility is a cross-breeding between Charlotte and the juvenile male bamboo sharks in her tank. Bite marks typically seen in mating sharks were found on Charlotte. Answers will have to wait until the pups are born. She is expected to give birth any day and we will update when we know more!
Watch Charlotte in the video below:
More to Do in Hendersonville, NC
There are lots of fun things to do and great restaurants right near the aquarium in Hendersonville, NC. Don’t miss the Park at Flat Rock with its unique ropes course-like playground. For lots more, see our Guide to Hendersonville, NC.
Disover Hendersonville, NC
Team ECCO: Don’t Miss This Pint-Sized Powerhouse Aquarium in Hendersonville, NC
Moonshine Mountain Delivers Thrilling Snow Tubing During Winter Months
Are you looking for day trips near Greenville, SC? You have found our official Kidding Around Day Trip Headquarters! We have compiled our ever-expansive list of day trip offerings to one page, where you can easily find your desired trip, fuel your wanderlust, and still have the kiddos back by bedtime! Happy adventuring!
Where Would You Like to Take A Day Trip?
South Carolina Day Trips: Day Trips Near Greenville, SC
Looking for a day trip in South Carolina? Start with our South Carolina Day Trips list or view all our SC day trip content by city below!
Day Trip Towns Near the SC Upstate and the Surrounding Areas
To get you started, try this list of Easy Day Trip Towns. If you just want to explore a town, grab some coffee, maybe visit a park, or do some light hiking, this is the list for you. Check out these day trip-worthy towns near South Carolina’s Upstate area.
Upstate, SC Day Trips: Day Trips Near Greenville, SC
These Upstate, SC day trip destinations are all very close to Greenville, SC. Getting your day trip feet wet with getting out and about with the kids? Or even scarier…first time AWAY from the kids! Baby steps are where it’s at. Stay close to home with these great nearby options that are easy to get to, and you can be back by nap time! We have local ideas like Table Rock State Park or the South Carolina Botanical Garden, in addition to places that are only a 45 minute drive from Greenville.
Home of the Riverbanks Zoo, State Capitol Building, the natural beauty of Lake Murray, the Columbia Museum of Art, and Edventure (and all of the other great spring break day trips you’ve ever wanted to try, but didn’t have the time)! It is considered the largest city in SC, and has so much to offer. A quick hour and a half drive down the interstate, Columbia has it all within your reach!
Charleston, SC Day Trips
Charleston is one of the most popular day trips near Greenville, SC. The lovely low country…home to beautiful historic downtown Charleston for the grown-ups, and so many awesome options for the kids! The South Carolina Aquarium, Children’s Museum, and the beaches make this dreamy destination a hit any time of year. Here’s our Travel Guide to Charleston: Where To Stay, Eat, And Play! so you don’t miss any of the fun. Or, check out some of these favorite places in Charleston, SC to spend the day.
North Carolina Day Trips: Day Trips Near Greenville, SC
Western North Carolina Day Trips
Venturing a little further? You need to check out our Western North Carolina Day Trip Guide! The mountain views are SO stunning…especially if you plan a trip in the fall! Peep those leaves on the Blue Ridge Parkway while you’re at it!
Here are some destinations that make great day trips in the Western North Carolina area:
WNC Waterfall Driving Tour
Day Trips in Asheville, NC:
Brevard, NC Day Trip Ideas:
Day Trips in Cashiers, NC:
Flat Rock, NC Day Trips:
Things to Do in Hendersonville, NC:
Visit Linville, NC:
Rutherfordton, NC:
Waynesville, NC:
Carolina Raptor Center
Charlotte, NC Area Day Trips
A little over an hour and a half from the Upstate, Charlotte is the perfect day trip destination. The charming city is lively, with a fun downtown area equipped with great restaurants and shopping! Added bonus: there is no shortage of activities in the Queen City for both adults and kiddos alike! Check out our list below:
Georgia Day Trips
World of Coca Cola, The Atlanta Zoo, The Georgia Aquarium, Stone Mountain, Fernbank, the World Series Champs, the list goes on! Is there anything Atlanta doesn’t have? We have even included surrounding suburban and North Georgia areas that are jam-packed with options to make your day trip just peachy!
Tennessee Day Trips
Chattanooga, Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, the Queen of Country’s Dollywood, and The Great Smokies…let’s just say that Tennessee is a must-see!
Chattanooga, TN
Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge & Sevierville, TN
Educational Day Trips
Learn On The Road Any Day, Any Time!
Check out these awesome educational day trip ideas near Upstate, SC that are great for kiddos who are not yet in school, and perfect for our homeschooling families! We’ve compiled great options throughout Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, and Tennessee!
Day Trips By The Seasons: Day Trips Near Greenville, SC
Winter Day Trips
Brrr! Baby, it’s cold outside! Enjoy the great outdoors and discover the magic in the mountains!
Looking Glass Falls In The Winter
Spring Day Trips
Spring has sprung, and what better time to get outside?! Check out these 26+ Fun Spring Day Trips full of all the best picnic, hiking, and gardens throughout the Carolinas!
Lake Lure, NC
Summer Day Trips
Summer, Summer, Summertime! The summer is a state of mind, so when all else fails…take a little vacay! Here’s our HUGE list of Awesome Summer Day Trips from Greenville, SC to get you started. Or, check out some of these favorites:
Lake Jocassee, SC
Fall Day Trips
Happy Fall, Y’all! For so many of us, this begins our favorite time of the year! Between apple picking, pumpkin patches, farm trips and the cooler temps, we’re big fans of fall because it is a truly happy time of year to venture out and about! Our Fall Day Trip Guideis full of great ideas. Or, just pick one of these fall favorites.
Nix Pumpkin Patch in Hendersonville, NC
Holiday Day Trips Near Greenville, SC
‘Tis the Season for holiday day trip guides! From the start of Spooky Season all the way to Christmas, it truly is the most wonderful time of the year!
Stone Mountain, GA
Boo! Our spooky day trips will put a spell on you! Click below to see why we’re so glad we live in a world where there are Octobers, because this post includes all of the happy hauntings that the Carolinas have to offer!
Christmas in the Carolinas and Beyond! Click below for all of the merriment you can muster while you make memories in Western North Carolina, Tennessee, Georgia and the Upstate of South Carolina.
More Travel Ideas Near Greenville, SC
The Ultimate Guide to Day Trips Near Upstate, SC
A Travel Guide to Tennessee: Family-Friendly Vacations
Did you know Hendersonville, NC has a FREE airplane museum? The Western North Carolina Air Museum is in a hangar beside a small runway full of historic airplanes. Learn about the history of the planes, how they’re made, and how they fly. There are even aircraft that kids can climb in, explore, and experiment with the controls. If you have an aviation enthusiast in your family, no matter their age, this is not a place you’ll want to skip. Let us introduce you to this amazing little gem in Hendersonville so you can plan your visit soon!
What is the Western North Carolina Air Museum?
The museum consists of a single hanger filled to the brim with interesting and historic aircraft, informational exhibits, and knowledgable staff there to answer your questions and explain everything about these planes. There is also an aviation library that takes up almost an entire wall of the hanger, full of information for anyone researching an aviation topic whether it’s historical, technical, or anything in between.
Is the WNC Air Museum a Place for Kids?
YES! Definitely bring kids to this museum. Signage at the museum asks parents to supervise their children at all times, which makes sense since there are so many valuable aircraft and exhibits densely packed into the space.
That said there are definitely things for kids to touch, explore, play with, and enjoy. There are photo ops for kids in the form of a wooden painted plane. And your kids may also notice some stuffies doing a little piloting. Both a plane and a gyrocopter are available for kids to climb into the pilot’s seat and move the controls. They’ll actually be able to move the rudder, ailerons, and elevator. This was definitely my kids’ favorite part of the museum.
The staff at the museum were very kind to my kids, answering all their questions and complimenting us on their inquisitiveness and behavior. And really, what parent doesn’t want to hear things like that about their kids?
On our way out, my kids were offered copies of some aviation magazines which they eagerly accepted. Members of the Air Museum donate copies they are done with to the museum so kids can bring them home to learn more.
When Can We Visit the Western North Carolina Air Museum?
The regular hours of the museum are as follows:
April – October: Wednesday & Saturday, 10 am to 5 pm, and Sunday 12 pm to 5 pm
November – March: Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday, 12 pm to 5 pm
The museum may also be open for additional hours for special events, like the Hendersonville Apple Festival. Visit the Western North Carolina Air Museum website for special event information.
Getting to the WNC Air Museum
When you plug the address into your GPS or maps app you should have no trouble getting to the museum. It’s located just a few miles from downtown Hendersonville, but the area is residential and you may feel like you’re headed off in the wrong direction. The drive is gravel and you’ll see the hanger from the road.
Have you heard about the National Gingerbread Competition at the Grove Park Inn in Asheville, NC? Hansel and Gretel would not miss this Christmas extravaganza, as it showcases dozens of gingerbread houses and holiday decorations galore! Luckily you don’t have to worry about the waistline, because this is a feast for the eyes, not the stomach.
The charming Grove Park Inn in Asheville is a seasonal delight you won’t want to miss this holiday season, and who knows – once inspired, maybe you’ll find yourself building a gingerbread house with the kiddos.
This article was originally published on Femme au foyer.
Looking for more great holiday fun in Asheville, NC? Don’t miss our Guide to Christmas in Asheville, NC. It is loaded with fun things to do from Asheville’s Christmas lights to free Santa photos!
The Annual Gingerbread Competition at Asheville’s Grove Park Inn
The famous gingerbread house competition at the Grove Park Inn is a favorite winter activity for families. Viewing dates are November 27, 2023 through January 2, 2024. If you are not staying at the resort, you are invited to view the displays after 4 pm on Sundays or anytime Monday – Thursday based on parking availability. Excluded dates for guests not staying at the resort are December 23-25, 30-31, and January 1. Only registered resort pets are allowed and no outside pets are permitted.
The gingerbread houses are as diverse as they are amazing; on our last visit, we saw everything from clock towers to sleighs to igloos to skate parks. The entries must be constructed entirely of edible materials with the exception of the base, but the ingenuity in construction is simply remarkable.
There are four entry categories: adult, teen, youth and child, and entries are judged on overall appearance, originality and creativity, difficulty, precision and consistency of theme.
While there is no admission charge to view the display, although there is a $25/car parking fee. Half of this fee goes to local non-profits. For more information on the gingerbread competition visit the website, and make sure to keep a lookout for entries from the Upstate; in previous years an entry from Greer placed second in the teen category, while a Greenville entry in the child category received an honorable mention.
Holiday Decorations at Omni Grove Park Inn
All decorated areas of the hotel may not be available to those who are not registered guests staying at the hotel.
As you walk through the hotel viewing the gingerbread competition winners you’ll see more than a few Christmas trees decorated in all sorts of motifs. My boys’ favorite part of the visit was discovering the elaborate ornaments on these themed trees, deciding on their favorites, and planning which decorations we should have in our home. The giant Christmas tree in the lobby is a perfect place for that family photo, the entire Great Hall filled with the smell of the giant evergreen.
The enormous fire places in the Great Hall are adorned with wreaths, heat radiating out to warm those seated in the area. One year, there was a gingerbread house in the hall, built by the pastry department. The ingredients included 50 pounds of egg whites, 440 pounds of powdered sugar, 220 pounds of red fondant and 400 pounds of bread flower!
Visitors could purchase hot beverages and gingerbread from the gingerbread house, and then settle into the giant rocking chairs near the fireplace with hot chocolate to enjoy the holiday bustle. Spend a little more time than just a couple of minutes in the rocking chairs – sitting by a roaring fire in a relaxing chair is part of the mystique of the Inn that should not be glossed over.
The Grounds of Grove Park Inn
The original Grove Park Inn was built in 1913 and over the years has grown to encompass a golf course, spa, sports complex, five restaurants, three bars and a café.
To truly appreciate the scenic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains it is worth stepping out onto the veranda, or even descending down into the gardens and spa area. This descent via outdoor stone staircases is also a good use of the kids’ extra energy; ask them to take a photo of the Inn from the lowest level.
The view of the front of the hotel is also quite grand, and after imagining the long-ago sound of horse-drawn carriages rattling across the cobblestones you might want to take a short stroll. From the front of the hotel up to Sunset Mountain is a short hiking trail that is appropriate for all skill levels and ages that will let you work off whatever delectable you may have bought at the Inn, but will also let you appreciate the spectacular natural setting of the Grove Park Inn.
Then, as you set off on the drive home take a minute to determine whether you should enter next year’s Gingerbread Competition – or once more return as a spectator to this wonderful annual event.
Plan a trip of your own
Grove Park Inn 290 Macon Avenue Asheville, NC 28804 800.438.5800
Searching for “Christmas day trips near me”? Or maybe you’re interested in taking a trip out of Greenville to enjoy the holiday spirit? There are a bunch of places you can head for the weekend or just the day to enjoy some holiday fun away from the Upstate.
Check out our list of popular destinations for day trips during the holiday season. From train rides to giant light displays and towns all decked out for Christmas, there are some fantastic ideas on this list!
If you’re looking for a longer holiday trip, check out our list of Holiday Getawaysperfect for a festive family weekend or vacation.
Want to know what’s going on in Greenville over Christmas? Just check our List of Greenville Holiday Events and Things to Do, where you can find over 75+ Holiday Events in addition to links to all of our holiday content!
Still, looking for Christmas Things to Do? Gifts to give? Ways to give back? You can find all our best Christmas content in our Holiday Guide to Greenville
Holiday Day Trips Near Upstate, SC
Speedway Christmas at Charlotte Motor Speedway in Charlotte, NC
(November 17th, 2023 to January 7th, 2024) More than 3,000,000 lights displayed on the infield of Charlotte Speedway. Every Thursday-Sunday a Christmas Village with fire pits for roasting s’mores, a new illuminated walking trail, and Santa will be available in addition to an outdoor movie showing. Tickets are $45 for a family car.
(November 23rd, 2023 to December 31st, 2023) Over a million lights on the 2-mile loop of the park. Includes a laser light show, hayrides, zip-line, Santa, and even a Winter Wonder Ride. The cost is $25 per car / $50 per 12-15 passenger van / $75 for 15+ passenger vans. Additional fees apply for activities.
(November 9, 2023 – December 31, 2023) A 1 1/4 hour train ride to the North Pole. Santa himself will board the train and present the kids with a silver bell.
View the gingerbread houses at The Grove Park Inn November 27th, 2023 through January 2nd, 2024. Guests not staying at The Grove Park Inn can visit after 4 pm on Sundays or anytime Monday through Thursday.
North Carolina Arboretum Winter Lights
(November 17, 2023 – December 31st, 2023) Nearly half a million LED lights make up this amazing display at the North Carolina Arboretum.
(November 24, 25, 26, and December 1, 2, 3, 8, 9, 10, 15, 16, 17, 20, 21, 22, 23, 26, 27, 28, 29, & 30, 2023) Enjoy a magical mountain train ride through lights and a winter wonderland. Tickets are $60/adults, $40/ages 3-12, free/kids under 2. Santa will be there and guests can ride some of the attractions at the park.
Santa on the Chimney in Chimney Rock, NC (Saturday, December 2nd & 9th, 2023 – 11 am to 2 pm) Watch Santa Claus climb Chimney Rock. Santa will also be available after each climb to greet guests and take photos. This event has placed as one of the top Santa sightings in the USA.
Georgia Day Trips to Celebrate the Holidays
Holiday Haven in Dunwoody, Georgia Dunwoody’s destination partners also offer various events ranging from virtual activities that can be enjoyed in the comfort of your hotel room – to safe, in-person events honoring time-tested holiday traditions.
Athens, GA Winter Wonderlights (November 22, 2023 – December 30, 2024) at the State Botanical Garden of Georgia. The half-mile fully accessible trail weaves through Candy Cane Lane, through a tunnel of lights and in between tree forest ultimately ending at the holiday market. Visitors can purchase hot coffee, cocoa and even marshmallows for roasting at specific locations along the trail. The cost is $15/person and free for kids under 3. Also, you can go Ice Skating at Akins Ford Arena .
State Botanical Garden, Courtesy of Visit Athens
Stone Mountain Christmas in Atlanta Area of Georgia (select dates November 11, 2023 – January 2, 2024) Enjoy a scenic train ride, Christmas parade, shows, Christmas lights, and lots more.
Garden Lights at Atlanta Botanical Garden (November 18, 2023 – January 14, 2024) This massive light display includes colored orbs, model trains, and a glittery rainforest.
Plan a Holiday Day Trip to Pigeon Forge, TN
Winterfest in Pigeon Forge, TN (November 9 2023 – February 18, 2024) This could be a great weekend trip or a really long day trip out to Pigeon Forge, TN. There are lots of Christmas lights and shows plus Dollywood is decked out in gorgeous lights for the season.
Wondering about the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad’s Polar Express? Bryson City offers one of the most magical experiences of a kid’s life on this themed train ride based on the book The Polar Express. Whether you love an early beginning to the holiday season or wish you could put it off, this North Carolina attraction is one very good reason to start your own planning early this year. KAG Contributor Liene has all the information you need to know about this very popular holiday attraction.
The Polar Express: Bryson City, NC
Bryson City is a gateway city to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, but is it also home to the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad depot, with scenic rail excursions through the beautiful mountains of Western North Carolina. Beginning November 9th, 2023, a very special train will be departing from the historic Bryson City depot: The Polar Express. This is one of two very popular train rides on the Polar Express near Greenville, SC, so get your tickets soon!
Based on the popular children’s book written and illustrated by Chris Van Allsburg, this magical train ride recreates the journey to the North Pole complete with hot cocoa and a warm cookie. At the end of the train ride, Santa Claus himself will be waiting at Santa’s Village to board the train and present each child with their very own silver sleigh bell.
Things to Know About the Ride on the Polar Express
You’ll want to arrive in Bryson City at least an hour before your departure time. This will give you time to park, which is not an easy task in this little town that brings upwards of 90,000 passengers through for the Polar Express. Parking charges are already added when purchasing tickets ($6) and parking attendants are on hand to direct traffic.
Once you’ve walked to the depot you might want to explore the GSMR train museum, and you’ll find a dozen little souvenir and snack shops lining the street to explore while waiting for your train’s boarding time. Hint; the Smoky Mountain trains museum is free with tickets, but you can purchase pictures with Santa if you arrive early.
When it is time to climb on board, passengers join the queue at their assigned boarding station, which correlates to the train car in which you will be riding. The beautifully restored vintage coaches date from the 1920s to the 1940s, and the interior has been festively decorated in the holiday spirit. Friendly employees are on hand to help the boarding process and get everyone situated, and before you know it, the whistle blows, and the Polar Express is off, headed for the North Pole!
While music plays in the background (from the motion picture The Polar Express), the conductor comes through to stamp the ‘golden train tickets.’ These tickets, based on the book, make a cherished souvenir for the children. Hint: make sure to bring your copy of “The Polar Express” on the trip so that you can read along while enjoying the hot chocolate brought to you by the singing and dancing chef.
Like most parents, we had changed the kids into their pajamas so that they would be cozy and comfortable on the journey. And, the singing of Christmas carols and antics of the Polar Express characters kept them mesmerized the entire trip.
Tips to Make the Most of Your Trip
With three different ticket options (First, Crown, and Coach), families have a variety of choices concerning seating, snacks, and memorabilia – only reserve your tickets soon, as the tickets for the weekends approaching Christmas tend to sell out by the end of October. We opted for Coach and were completely satisfied with the seating, the service, and the benefits that came with our package.
We purchased tickets on the 5 pm train, meaning it would still be light out for the first 1/2 hour of the journey (and we could watch the gorgeous mountain scenery roll by). The sun had set and darkness descended just before our arrival at the North Pole, and so the Christmas lights adorning ‘Santa’s Village’ twinkled in the darkness, helping convince reluctant believers… On our return trip, lights from homes along the route sparkled in the distance, adding a magical dimension to the ride.
When selecting seats, you might want to choose to be on the left side of the train (that would be the opposite side where you board the Polar Express), as the river and the majority of North Pole lights will be on that side. Also, Santa boards on the front of the train, so be prepared for him to come through rather soon after stopping if you’re in Coach; have your copy of “The Polar Express” ready for him to sign, and the kids ready to tell him what they would like for Christmas. He even makes some time to ask some disbelieving adults about what they would like under the tree – so make that list and check it twice!
More information on the Polar Express: Bryson City, NC
The first Polar Express departure is on November 9, 2023, and the train operates through December 31, 2023, with the exception of certain weekdays, Thanksgiving, and Christmas day. They do have a Christmas Eve ride if you want a truly memorable night. Most days, there are three departures a day and tickets sell out quickly.
For detailed information on the different seating available, visit the Polar Express website.
Bryson City is about 2 ½ hours by car from both Greenville and Spartanburg, optimally a weekend destination, but doable in a day (since the kids will sleep on the way home!).
There are several classes to choose from with Coach Class being the cheapest of the tickets starting at $29 for kids ages 2-12 and $44 for adults up to First Class, which is $47 for kids and $68 for adults. Crown and Premium Crown Class are in between those prices. Depending on what ticket class you choose, you’ll receive a cookie, hot chocolate, and a souvenir of some type for a full Polar Express experience.
You can book tickets by calling 800.872.4681 or you can book them online.
Where to Stay Near the Polar Express in Bryson City, NC
If you want to enhance your Polar Express experience with a super cool place to stay in town, try Sky Ridge Yurts, only about 20 minutes away from the city center and the railroad. The yurts are spacious, clean, and very comfortable. We tried them out over the summer and fell in love with the unique structures. Enjoy some warm cocoa and the mountain views during your trip!
“At one time, most of my friends could hear the bell, but as years passed, it fell silent for all of them. Even Sarah found one Christmas that she could no longer hear its sweet sound. Though I’ve grown old, the bell still rings for me, as it does for all who truly believe.”
From The Polar Express, by Chris Van Allsburg
Would a ride on The Polar Express be a trip your kids would cherish?
Are you looking for things to do in Hendersonville, NC? Just over the border into North Carolina is the mountaintop town of Hendersonville, NC. There are lots of things to enjoy, but the thing Hendersonville, North Carolina is most famous for is their apple orchards! If you are planning a trip to Hendersonville, we’ve got all the info you’ll need to fill your day with fun, or enjoy a day trip or weekend getaway any time of year.
Go apple picking! One of the first signs that cooler weather is on the horizon is people flocking north to Hendersonville and neighboring Flat Rock, to enjoy everything apple! Freshly picked apples, apple cider, apple cider donuts, and my favorite, frozen apple cider. We’ve been to most of them, and you can learn all about each orchard and what it has to offer, below.
If you are a fan of those apple cider donuts that the orchards sell, have we got a tour for you! Kidding Around’s Apple Cider Doughnut Tour takes you to eight of the orchards in Hendersonville where you can snack on one of these fall-time delicacies.
The Nix Pumpkin Patch
The huge pumpkin-shaped silo of this farm is hard to miss! You can grab pumpkins of all shapes and sizes here, as well as an apple cider slushie! There are tons of photo opportunities to be had, so bring that camera along! Nix Pumpkin Patch Facebook Page
Apple Valley Model RR Club Check out this totally FREE model train museum with indoor and outdoor model train displays. They are open on Wednesdays and Saturdays.
Bearfootin’ Bear Hunt May through October, custom-decorated bear statues line the street. In October they get auctioned off to benefit the downtown area and local non-profits.
Carl Sandburg Home Located in Flat Rock, thispoet’s home is open to the public and free to visit. It is not only a historic site but also a working goat farm. If you are heading to the Carl Sandburg Home, you should sign up for theKids In Parks incentive program! It’s free and allows kids to earn prizes for spending time outdoors.
Fairy Trail at Bullington Gardens These free-to-visit gardens include a popular fairy-themed garden that is open seasonally.
Team Ecco Aquarium This aquarium is home to aquatic life as well as reptiles. Plan your trip to be there for the Shark and Sting Ray feedings. Admission is under $10 per person.
Mineral And Lapidary Museum Admission is free, which is awesome because craking open your own geode is something everyone should get to do, and the free entry makes it more affordable.
See historic aircraft for free at this former hanger converted to a museum. There are opportunities to climb into aircraft and learn how they fly. Everything is free, and donations are accepted.
Moonshine Mountain If you’re looking for some wintertime fun, Moonshine Mountain has it. Tubing and other fun winter activities will keep your family entertained.
Arabella’s Breakfast and Brunch One of our family’s favorite breakfast spots in Hendersonville, you’ll enjoy some delicious and unique breakfast options with a little southwestern flare. They also have great coffee and coffee drinks.
HenDough Go to where all the magic began, the original HenDough location! Did you know, that the nickname for Hendersonville is “Hendo”?
McFarlan Bakery Recommended by readers this nearly centuries-old bakery consistently wins local “best of” awards.
Black Bear Coffee Shop This great coffee shop offers coffee lovers and diners tons of options. They feature locally made baked goods, plus super fresh salads, soup, sandwiches, breakfast meals, and more. Of course, they also offer a wide array of coffee beverages and teas.
Mike’s Sandwich Shop Right on Main Street, you’ll find this 1950s Soda Shop style restaurant. Here you can grab a great sandwich and enjoy indoors at a table on the sidewalk out front. Mike’s also has classic diner breakfast options, and all your favorite classic soda fountain desserts, malts, floats, shakes and more!
Salad and soup from Black Bear Coffee
Southern Streams Coffee House
Just a couple minutes from downtown, you’ll find the adorable Southern Streams Coffee House. You’ll feel like you’re off somewhere on a mountain vacation as soon as you pull into the large gravel lot beside this coffee house. You’ve got your pick of indoor and outdoor seating options including a large sunny deck. They offer house-made pastries, breakfast sandwiches, lunch sandwiches, salads, and all the coffee and tea drinks you could want.
1628 5th Ave West, Hendersonville
Family-friendly Breweries: Hendersonville, NC
Trailside Brewing Company
Located in historic Lennox Station, Trailside Brewing Co. offers a wide variety of beer made in-house, as well as wine and non-alcoholic options. Food trucks are frequently on site beside the beautiful beer garden, and the brewery hosts live music and other events regularly.
In the heart of Downtown Hendersonville lies a former gas station building converted into Hendersonville’s Blue Ridge Beer Garden. This gathering spot features a space for food trucks, open outdoor space with a variety of seating options, a fireplace, covered seating and indoor seating.
You’ll find a very large variety of local beer here at the beer garden, more than I’ve seen most places. And you’ll find extremely friendly service. This is a great spot to hang out, play a board game, and talk.
Cheers! Trail Passport: Hendersonville Vineyards and Breweries
Hendersonville also offers visitors a great selection of stops to enjoy locally produced wine, beer, and more. You can explore them with the passport program offered by the Hendersonville Visitors Information Center.
The Cheers! Trail Passport may be purchased for $10 at the Visitor Center. Visit at least 12 venues and get your passport stamped to redeem it for your choice of several trail souvenirs and swag.
Choose from a selection of 27 different tasting experiences along the trail.
Tasting experiences include:
Breweries
Vineyards
Hard cideries, and meadery
The Passport is available at the Visitor Center at 201 South Main Street, online, and at the participating vendor locations.
Where to Stay Near Hendersonville, NC
There are some super cute places to stay near Hendersonville, NC!
This map contains Stay22 affiliate links. Kidding Around earns when you book through these links.
Find all our WNC ideas in Kidding Around WNC, our guide to Western North Carolina.
Looking for more places to spend the day with your family? Here’s our list of Day Trip Towns, just a short drive from the Upstate.
