Planning your summer day trips? With school out and the weather perfect for adventures, summer is the ideal time for families to explore, play, and make memories together. But not every family has time for a multi-day vacation—that’s where summer day trips come in.
Whether you're into outdoor thrills, scenic views, animal encounters, or serene nature, we've curated a list of exciting and unique day trips near Greenville, SC that are perfect for all ages.
For the Outdoor Adventurer
Splash Island & Aqua Zone – Lake Hartwell
Cool off on the water with inflatable obstacle courses! Two family-favorite floating parks—Splash Island at Big Water Marina and Aqua Zone at The Shores of Asbury—offer action-packed fun.
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Distance from Greenville: 1 hour
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Hours: Splash Island (Thu–Sun), Aqua Zone (Daily 11 am–8 pm)
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Admission: $15–$25 per session
Carrigan Farms Quarry – Mooresville, NC
Jump, swim, and relax at a stunning natural spring-fed quarry. With 25-foot depths, rock jump-offs, rope swings, and volleyball, this spot promises full-day fun.
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Distance: 2 hours
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Admission: $23–$40 (varies by day)
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Hours: Open Swim 10 am–3 pm (Check calendar)
Upstate Zipline – Sunset, SC
Soar across 10 thrilling ziplines, including two over Lake Keowee. A high-adrenaline adventure for kids and adults alike!
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Distance: 1 hour
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Admission: $89/person (ages 3+)
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Hours: Varies; check website
Jocassee Wild Child Boat Tour – Lake Jocassee
Explore hidden coves and learn about wildlife on a family-friendly boat tour through one of South Carolina’s most scenic lakes.
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Distance: 1 hour 20 minutes
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Admission: $55–$65
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Duration: 2–3 hours
U.S. National Whitewater Center – Charlotte, NC
A full day of activities: whitewater rafting, kayaking, climbing, ropes courses, and more.
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Distance: 90 minutes
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Admission: Day Pass $69–$79
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Hours: Vary; check website
For the Casual Nature Lover
SC Botanical Garden – Clemson, SC
A relaxing and free destination with 295 acres of gardens, ponds, and a fun children’s area.
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Distance: 45 minutes
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Admission: Free
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Hours: Sunrise to sundown
Biltmore Estate – Asheville, NC
More than just a castle! Enjoy gardens, trails, farm animals, kayaking, and a winery (with grape juice tastings for kids).
- Distance: 90 minutes
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Admission: Starts at $80/adult
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Hours: Vary by season
Kings Mountain State Park & Military Site – Blacksburg, SC
Hike, fish, and step into Revolutionary War history at this unique combo of natural beauty and heritage.
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Distance: 1 hour 20 minutes
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Admission: Low fee for the park; military site is free
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Hours: 9 am–5 pm daily
Sassafras Mountain Overlook – Sunset, SC
Stand on South Carolina’s highest peak with panoramic views. Nearby hiking trails make this a flexible and scenic getaway.
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Distance: 1 hour 20 minutes
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Admission: Free
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Hours: N/A
For the Animal Enthusiast
Horseback Riding at The Dillard House – Dillard, GA
Experience beautiful mountain trails on horseback with ride options for beginners to pros.
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Distance: 2 hours
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Admission: Varies by ride
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Hours: See website
Riverbanks Zoo – Columbia, SC
Home to 2,000+ animals and a botanical garden, this zoo is ideal for a full day of exploration and learning.
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Distance: 90 minutes
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Admission: $24.99 adults, $21.99 kids
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Hours: 9 am–5 pm
Carolina Raptor Center – Huntersville, NC
View owls, eagles, falcons, and more at this sanctuary and education center.
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Distance: 1 hour 45 minutes
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Admission: $12–$16
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Hours: See website
Chattahoochee Nature Center – Roswell, GA
Explore wetlands, nature trails, and interactive exhibits near Atlanta.
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Distance: 2.5 hours
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Admission: See website
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Hours: 9 am–7 pm (Mon–Sat); Noon–7 pm (Sun)
For the Waterfall Chaser
Gorges State Park & Whitewater Falls – Sapphire, NC
A must-visit for waterfall lovers. Hike to Rainbow Falls, Turtleback Falls, and nearby Whitewater Falls (400+ ft tall).
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Distance: 90 minutes
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Admission: Free
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Hours: 7 am–10 pm
Sapphire Valley – Land of the Waterfalls
Tour the Highlands-Cashiers area with stops at Dry Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and more. Perfect for a mix of short hikes and scenic drives.
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Distance: 90 minutes
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Admission: Free
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Hours: 24/7
Stumphouse Park & Issaqueena Falls – Walhalla, SC
A unique destination with a cool tunnel, waterfalls, and hiking trails. Add on a visit to the nearby Walhalla Fish Hatchery.
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Distance: 90 minutes
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Admission: $5 parking
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Hours: Daylight hours
Tips for Planning Your Summer Day Trips
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Always check hours and websites before heading out.
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Bring snacks, water, sunscreen, and a change of clothes.
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If the spot takes reservations—book in advance, especially on weekends.
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Have a backup plan in case of rain or unexpected closures.
Discover Your Next Adventure!
From ziplines and waterfalls to botanical gardens and wild animal encounters, there's no shortage of fun summer day trips from Greenville. Skip the long road trip this season and explore the best the Southeast has to offer—all within a few hours of home.
Pin this list, share it with a friend, and get your summer plans started today!
