Explore family friendly events, theatres, galleries, concerts, nightlife, things to do, and more in the Greenville, SC and Upstate areas.

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Tuesday, August 31, 2021
Summer at Biltmore
Aug 31 @ 9:30 am – 6:00 pm
Biltmore

See the source image

Summer at Biltmore offers an abundance of opportunities to explore our 8,000-acre Blue Ridge Mountain backyard and create the kind of memories that last a lifetime. Wander through historic gardens, along winding trails, and within the spacious halls of America’s Largest Home®. Enjoy extraordinary experiences and peace of mind in one spectacular setting: only at Biltmore.

Guided Trail Walk
Aug 31 @ 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm
NC Arboretum

Hit the trails and learn more about the Arboretum’s botanically diverse forest with the return of guided trail walks in 2021! In response to COVID-19, new safety measures have been put in place to protect our guests, members, volunteers and staff: Walks will be limited to 10 people, including the guide, and all participants will be required to wear face coverings for the duration of the walk.

This free hiking program is led by trained volunteer guides who take small groups of participants along woodland trails and through a variety of forest types. Depending on the season, topics of discussion may include wildflowers, plant and tree identification, natural history and more.

Guided trail walks depart from the Baker Exhibit Center Lobby every Tuesday and Saturday at 1 p.m. through the month of October. Walks last 1.5- 2.5 hours and are approximately one to two miles in length, and as such are recommended for guests 14 years or older. Walks are held rain or shine, so all participants should dress appropriately for the weather.

Register In Advance

Space is limited and advance registration is encouraged. Pre-registered participants must check in at the Baker Information Desk no later than 10 minutes before the scheduled program to keep their spot. Unclaimed spots will be offered to other guests.

Guests may sign up for trail walks in the following ways:

  • Pre-register online
  • Sign up in-person at the Baker Information Desk.
The North Carolina Arboretum: Guided Trail Walk
Aug 31 @ 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm
The North Carolina Arboretum

Hit the trails and learn more about The North Carolina Arboretum’s botanically diverse forest with the return of guided trail walks in 2021! From April — October, this free hiking program is led by trained volunteer guides who take small groups of participants along woodland trails and through a variety of forest types. Depending on the season and each guide’s area of expertise, topics of discussion may include wildflowers, plant and tree identification, natural history and more.

Guided trail walks are limited to 10 people, including the guide, and are not recommended for guests under 16 years of age. Groups depart from the Baker Visitor Center Lobby on Tuesdays at 1 p.m. and Saturdays at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m..

Walks last 1.5 – 2.5 hours, are approximately one to two miles in length. As this program is held rain or shine, all participants should dress appropriately for the weather.

Register In Advance

Space is limited and advance registration is encouraged. Pre-registered participants must check in at the Baker Information Desk no later than 10 minutes before the scheduled program to keep their spot. Unclaimed spots will be offered to other guests.

Guests may sign up for trail walks in the following ways:

  • Pre-register online, using the the link below.
  • Sign up in-person at the Baker Information Desk.

 

Walks are FREE; however, donations to The North Carolina Arboretum Society are appreciated. Regular parking fees apply. Arboretum Society Members always park free.

Wednesday, September 1, 2021
Nantahala River Rafting Fully Guided
Sep 1 all-day
Nantahala Outdoor Center

guests rafting on the Nantahala River Raft & Duck Rentals in North Carolina trip

A guided whitewater rafting trip is one of the best ways to experience the Nantahala Gorge. The crystal-clear Nantahala River is the perfect family-friendly river where experienced river guides will help you navigate through splashy Class II-III rapids and bouncy waves, with occasional calmer waters where you can enjoy the spectacular mountain scenery. The fully guided rafting trip the most popular adventure at NOC, with thousands of families returning year after year.

Vic Bailey Subaru Bike Park
Sep 1 all-day
The Vic Bailey Subaru Bike Park

The Vic Bailey Subaru Bike Park is a community collaboration located off the Mary Black Foundation Rail Trail behind the Flock Shop in Spartanburg, SC. The park includes bicycle features like the wood and dirt flow trails which take mountain bikers on a roller coaster experience with little pedaling and braking necessary. The park was made to suit all skill levels, built with progressive features so you can start small and advance at your own pace.

Wings of the City Instagram Contest!
Sep 1 all-day
Greenville SC

Together with Fundación Marín and the Mexican Consulate in Raleigh, we’re thrilled to announce the launch of the Wings of the City Photo Contest! Participate for a chance to win a lithograph by Jorge Marín!⁣
1) Follow the following Instagram accounts: @jorgemarinmx@hispanicalliancesc, and @gvilleevents.⁣
2) Take a picture posing in front of one of the 9 sculptures.⁣
3) Post the picture in your Instagram Feed (not in stories) using the hashtag #WingsoftheCityGVL.⁣
4) In the caption, include a word, phrase or quote that conveys what the sculpture or the exhibit means to you.⁣
First, second, and third place will be chosen by the number of likes – so make sure you share and ask your friends to support you by liking your post! ⁣
We will be accepting entries until September 13, 2021. Participants from SC, NC, and GA are eligible. For more information, please visit WingsofGVL.com/contest.⁣
Children’s Fountain at RiverPlace
Sep 1 @ 8:00 am – 10:00 pm
RiverPlace

Children playing in the railroad-themed splash fountain at Riverplace

CHILDREN’S FOUNTAIN

Located at RiverPlace, this railroad-themed splash fountain is a popular spot to cool off in the summer months. Hours of operation are 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily, from April 1 to October 31.

HawkWatch
Sep 1 @ 8:00 am – 6:00 pm
Grandfather Mountain

All throughout September, guests are invited to join the mountain’s naturalists as they count and celebrate the annual spectacle of the fall raptor migration. Participants can meet daily across the Mile High Swinging Bridge on Linville Peak, weather permitting.

Wild Art Sculpture Showcase
Sep 1 @ 8:00 am – 9:00 pm
NC Arboretum

The North Carolina Arboretum is going wild for art and nature in 2021 with Wild Art! On view April 1 through September 26, this outdoor sculpture exhibition features works by 17 local and national artists drawing inspiration from the natural environment. Situated throughout the Arboretum’s spacious, open-air gardens, the show offers guests a doorway into the wild world from the comfort and safety of cultivated landscapes transformed by art.

The 18 sculptures on display represent a variety of approaches to the theme of “wild art,” from the literal to the abstract, and are crafted from a diverse array of materials that will delight and inspire. Let your imagination take you on a wild journey into the world of plants and animals near and far with Wild Art at The North Carolina Arboretum.

The exhibit is available to all guests during normal Arboretum hours, and there is no admission cost to view the sculptures beyond our usual parking fee of $16 per personal vehicle.

WEST END WALKING TOUR
Sep 1 @ 8:30 am – 9:30 am
Greenville—Falls Park

This tour begins at the very birthplace of Greenville—Falls Park. The same allure of the gorgeous 40-foot natural waterfall that casts a spell on Falls Park visitors today must have had the same impact on the first colonial settler, Richard Pearis, when he arrived in c.1769. Less than a handful of American cities can boast such a waterfall in the heart of downtown. Visitors receive a chronological history of our city beginning with a view of the falls from the newest icon of the city’s cityscape—the award-winning pedestrian Liberty Bridge. At the foundation walls of an 1816 grist mill built by Vardry McBee, guests will learn about the factors that caused this small trading post town to grow into the textile center of the world.

Other highlights of the tour include discussion of some of the oldest buildings still existing along the banks of the river, including the 1882 Huguenot Mill and the Gower, Cox and Markley Carriage factory buildings that are now used for dining and entertainment. On the other side of the river banks, visitors will soak in the magnificent features of the $137 million Riverplace development with its unique mix of restaurants, offices, condominiums, artists’ open studios, a 30-foot cascading waterfall feature, hotel and more.

A stroll back up Main St. into the West End discusses a famous Greenvillian, Charles Townes. This tour will give you a great overview of our city’s past but you’ll also hear about the exciting current projects that are adding to the downtown experience as well as future projects that are going to be transforming us into the future.

Highlights include:

• Ruins of an 1816 grist mill built by the “Father of Greenville”, Vardry McBee

• The 1882 Huguenot Mill – learn how Greenville became the “Textile Center of the World”
• The 1857 Gower, Cox and Markley Carriage factory building, once the largest carriage company in the South
• Riverplace – stroll the river walk while learning about the beautiful complex of fine restaurants, shopping, condos, open artist studios, and more overlooking the Reedy River that has sparked a revitalization of the Historic West End
• The bronze memorial to Charles Townes, a Greenvillian who became the inventor of the laser

Biltmore Gardens Railway
Sep 1 @ 9:30 am – 6:00 pm
Biltmore

Included with admission

Our fun-for-all-ages botanical model train displays invite you to experience our grounds in an engaging new way. Located in the Conservatory in the Walled Garden, the displays feature replicas of structures connected with Biltmore and its founder George Vanderbilt. Each beautifully executed piece was handcrafted from such natural elements as leaves, bark, and twigs.

In compliance with state and local mandates related to COVID-19, all guests must enter the Conservatory via the ADA entrance in the back and follow a one-way route.

Summer at Biltmore
Sep 1 @ 9:30 am – 6:00 pm
Biltmore

See the source image

Summer at Biltmore offers an abundance of opportunities to explore our 8,000-acre Blue Ridge Mountain backyard and create the kind of memories that last a lifetime. Wander through historic gardens, along winding trails, and within the spacious halls of America’s Largest Home®. Enjoy extraordinary experiences and peace of mind in one spectacular setting: only at Biltmore.

Greenville Heritage Sound Check: concert series on the Reedy River
Sep 1 @ 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Peace Center amphitheater

Sound Check Logo

Last year we went virtual, and this year we are bringing it to you LIVE! Join us April 7 through September 29 for Greenville Heritage Sound Check presented by Pepsi Zero Sugar, a concert series located on the Reedy River. Each Wednesday night from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. will feature live music on the Peace Center Amphitheatre stage. Grab your friends, reserve a T-mobile Safe Space Pod and we will see you on the river! Beverage delivery service will also be available.

Enjoy the concert in your own private viewing area in our T-Mobile Safe Space Pods.

  • Pods are $10 each and includes admission for up to 4 people in a sectioned off 6′ x 6′ space.
  • Admission is via pod purchase only.
  • Online reservations are highly encouraged to guarantee your spot. Pods will be sold at the door if space is available.
  • Online reservations for the upcoming week will open on Thursday at 10:00 am.
  • Gates open at 6:00 pm. Band starts at 6:30 pm.
  • Tickets are non-refundable and are required for admission to the event.
  • Tickets are only good for the date & specific pod purchased. Tickets are not transferable to future event dates.
  • Tickets will go on sale every Thursday at 10:00am for the next week’s concert.
  • Beer, wine, & Pepsi products will be available for purchase on site.
  • Larkins on the River will have food options available onsite. Menu and Ordering Info
  • Chairs and blankets are permitted.
WEST END WALKING TOUR
Sep 1 @ 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Greenville—Falls Park

This tour begins at the very birthplace of Greenville—Falls Park. The same allure of the gorgeous 40-foot natural waterfall that casts a spell on Falls Park visitors today must have had the same impact on the first colonial settler, Richard Pearis, when he arrived in c.1769. Less than a handful of American cities can boast such a waterfall in the heart of downtown. Visitors receive a chronological history of our city beginning with a view of the falls from the newest icon of the city’s cityscape—the award-winning pedestrian Liberty Bridge. At the foundation walls of an 1816 grist mill built by Vardry McBee, guests will learn about the factors that caused this small trading post town to grow into the textile center of the world.

Other highlights of the tour include discussion of some of the oldest buildings still existing along the banks of the river, including the 1882 Huguenot Mill and the Gower, Cox and Markley Carriage factory buildings that are now used for dining and entertainment. On the other side of the river banks, visitors will soak in the magnificent features of the $137 million Riverplace development with its unique mix of restaurants, offices, condominiums, artists’ open studios, a 30-foot cascading waterfall feature, hotel and more.

A stroll back up Main St. into the West End discusses a famous Greenvillian, Charles Townes. This tour will give you a great overview of our city’s past but you’ll also hear about the exciting current projects that are adding to the downtown experience as well as future projects that are going to be transforming us into the future.

Highlights include:

• Ruins of an 1816 grist mill built by the “Father of Greenville”, Vardry McBee

• The 1882 Huguenot Mill – learn how Greenville became the “Textile Center of the World”
• The 1857 Gower, Cox and Markley Carriage factory building, once the largest carriage company in the South
• Riverplace – stroll the river walk while learning about the beautiful complex of fine restaurants, shopping, condos, open artist studios, and more overlooking the Reedy River that has sparked a revitalization of the Historic West End
• The bronze memorial to Charles Townes, a Greenvillian who became the inventor of the laser.

Thursday, September 2, 2021
Nantahala River Rafting Fully Guided
Sep 2 all-day
Nantahala Outdoor Center

guests rafting on the Nantahala River Raft & Duck Rentals in North Carolina trip

A guided whitewater rafting trip is one of the best ways to experience the Nantahala Gorge. The crystal-clear Nantahala River is the perfect family-friendly river where experienced river guides will help you navigate through splashy Class II-III rapids and bouncy waves, with occasional calmer waters where you can enjoy the spectacular mountain scenery. The fully guided rafting trip the most popular adventure at NOC, with thousands of families returning year after year.

Vic Bailey Subaru Bike Park
Sep 2 all-day
The Vic Bailey Subaru Bike Park

The Vic Bailey Subaru Bike Park is a community collaboration located off the Mary Black Foundation Rail Trail behind the Flock Shop in Spartanburg, SC. The park includes bicycle features like the wood and dirt flow trails which take mountain bikers on a roller coaster experience with little pedaling and braking necessary. The park was made to suit all skill levels, built with progressive features so you can start small and advance at your own pace.

Wings of the City Instagram Contest!
Sep 2 all-day
Greenville SC

Together with Fundación Marín and the Mexican Consulate in Raleigh, we’re thrilled to announce the launch of the Wings of the City Photo Contest! Participate for a chance to win a lithograph by Jorge Marín!⁣
1) Follow the following Instagram accounts: @jorgemarinmx@hispanicalliancesc, and @gvilleevents.⁣
2) Take a picture posing in front of one of the 9 sculptures.⁣
3) Post the picture in your Instagram Feed (not in stories) using the hashtag #WingsoftheCityGVL.⁣
4) In the caption, include a word, phrase or quote that conveys what the sculpture or the exhibit means to you.⁣
First, second, and third place will be chosen by the number of likes – so make sure you share and ask your friends to support you by liking your post! ⁣
We will be accepting entries until September 13, 2021. Participants from SC, NC, and GA are eligible. For more information, please visit WingsofGVL.com/contest.⁣
Children’s Fountain at RiverPlace
Sep 2 @ 8:00 am – 10:00 pm
RiverPlace

Children playing in the railroad-themed splash fountain at Riverplace

CHILDREN’S FOUNTAIN

Located at RiverPlace, this railroad-themed splash fountain is a popular spot to cool off in the summer months. Hours of operation are 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily, from April 1 to October 31.

HawkWatch
Sep 2 @ 8:00 am – 6:00 pm
Grandfather Mountain

All throughout September, guests are invited to join the mountain’s naturalists as they count and celebrate the annual spectacle of the fall raptor migration. Participants can meet daily across the Mile High Swinging Bridge on Linville Peak, weather permitting.

Wild Art Sculpture Showcase
Sep 2 @ 8:00 am – 9:00 pm
NC Arboretum

The North Carolina Arboretum is going wild for art and nature in 2021 with Wild Art! On view April 1 through September 26, this outdoor sculpture exhibition features works by 17 local and national artists drawing inspiration from the natural environment. Situated throughout the Arboretum’s spacious, open-air gardens, the show offers guests a doorway into the wild world from the comfort and safety of cultivated landscapes transformed by art.

The 18 sculptures on display represent a variety of approaches to the theme of “wild art,” from the literal to the abstract, and are crafted from a diverse array of materials that will delight and inspire. Let your imagination take you on a wild journey into the world of plants and animals near and far with Wild Art at The North Carolina Arboretum.

The exhibit is available to all guests during normal Arboretum hours, and there is no admission cost to view the sculptures beyond our usual parking fee of $16 per personal vehicle.