Follow links for more information about specific activites and events.

Other family services:
after-school programs . amusement & entertainment . care for the elderly . child care . children's health . counseling . family law . music, art, & dance instruction . pets, vets, & animals . schools & universities . special needs . summer camps . tutoring . youth groups & youth centers

Popular activities include:
biking . disc golf . family fun . fishing . golf . hiking/backpacking . hot air balloon rides . rafting . rock climbing . scenic drives . shopping . water sports . other great ideas

Cowpens National Battlefield
Cowpens National Battlefield, in Cowpens, SC, commemorates a decisive battle that helped turn the tide of war in the Southern Campaign of the American Revolution. The battle at the "Cow Pens," one of only a few successful double envelopments in history, is recognized by historians as one of the most important of the American Revolution.

Hatcher Garden and Woodland Preserve
The mission of Hatcher Garden & Woodland Preserve is to be a place for the public to come for inspiration, enjoyment and education through the study of nature. The Garden is home to over 10,000 trees, shrubs and flowers. Admission is free.

Hollywild Animal Park
Kids will love Hollywild Animal Park, home to the animal stars of movies and commericals. Nestled on over 100 acres near Inman, SC, Hollywild is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization committed to providing an interactive and enlightening experience for visitors.

Lawson's Fork Creek
Lawson's Fork is now accessible to paddlers who want to put in at Whitney and float to the Cottonwood Trail, a distance of 4.5 river miles. The "put-in" just below the dam, along U.S. Highway 221, was recently completed.

Music on Main
Since its inception ten years ago, BellSouth FastAccess Music on Main has been embraced by the Spartanburg community as a favorite after-work social gathering. Meet your friends and colleagues, dance with your kids, hear great live music, enjoy food and beverages in an outdoor setting, and just have plain fun!

Peachoid Water Tower is the 1-million-gallon water tank built by the Gaffney Commission of Public Works to honor the state's (and particularly Cherokee County's) fresh peach industry. The giant peach is easily seen from I-85, but you can take the exit for S.C. Highway 11, Cherokee Foothills Scenic Highway, for a closer look.

Southside Unity in the Community
Southside Unity in the Community is dedicated to promoting volunteerism within the Southside community. The program intends to make available in one central location resources, training, and opportunities that will encourage volunteerism.
Southside Unity in the Community strives to lead by example. Volunteerism is rarely taught in the Southside Community; it is our hope that this program managed entirely by volunteers will inspire volunteerism in present and future generations. Call 864-621-7209 for more information.

Walnut Grove Plantation
Walnut Grove Plantation is on land granted in 1763 by King George III to Charles Moore when the area was known as the backcountry. The documented collection of antique furnishings and accessories vividly portrays living conditions in Spartanburg County prior to 1805.

The Beach @ Lake Lure: A Beach in the Mountains!
Lake Lure, NC
Float on an inner tube, picnic in the shade, or just catch some rays. Great new water activities area. Water cannons, bumper boats and water slides. Lifeguards and concessions. Great for a family outing or special gathering. U.S. Hwy. 64/74A, 35 miles northwest of Spartanburg.

Chimney Rock Park
Chimney Rock, NC
Find the best of the mountains in one place. This privately-owned scenic attraction near Asheville offers spectacular 75-mile views, a 404-foot waterfall, hiking trails and more.

Family Fun Center
Lake Lure, NC
Climbing walls, trampoline games, Putt Putt, skeeball, ping pong, scooters, children's inflatable play area, pinball, velcro wall and more. Interactive, wholesome, family-oriented games and activities. Concessions and private party accommodations. Indoor facility located across from the Beach @ Lake Lure. U.S. Hwy. 64/74A, 35 miles northwest of Spartanburg.

Great Smoky Mountains Railroad
Dillsboro, NC
With the romance and mystique of an era gone by, guests on board the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad will enjoy year-round scenic train journeys across fertile valleys, through tunnels and across river gorges in the Great Smoky Mountains. Tuckasegee River Excursion (3½ hour round trip), Nantahala Gorge Excursion (4½ hour round trip) and the Gourmet Dinner Train (2½ hours) are just a few of the wonderful excursion trips available to passengers. 1-800-872-4681 or 828-586-8811

Greenville Zoo
Greenville, SC
The zoo is open seven days a week, and home to two Bornean Orangutans, an Amur leopard, native SC reptiles and amphibians, and many other animals.

Lake Lure Tours
Lake Lure, NC
Step on board these luxurious boats and visit the blockbuster hit Dirty Dancing film site, delight in mountain legends and breathtaking views. Suitable for all ages. Hourly tours, twilight and dinner cruises. Private and group charters. U.S. Hwy. 64/74A in scenic Hickory Nut Gorge, 35 miles north of Spartanburg. Lake Lure is ranked by National Geographic Magazine as one of the top scenic lakes in the world.

Roper Mountain Science Center
Greenville, SC
Public programs at the center are limited to Friday "Starry Nights" programs and the Second Saturday public day. In addition, the nature trails, arboretum, and butterfly garden are available to the public any time the main gate is open.