Spartanburg City Guide

Welcome to Spartanburg, South Carolina! Nestled in the heart of Upstate South Carolina, Spartanburg is a vibrant city known for its rich history, cultural landmarks, and outdoor adventures. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or planning an extended stay, this guide will help you make the most of your time in this charming city.

Top Attractions in Spartanburg

Hatcher Garden and Woodland Preserve

A beautiful urban garden featuring walking trails, ponds, and native plants, Hatcher Garden is a peaceful retreat for nature enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy birdwatching, photography, or simply relaxing amidst the lush greenery. Learn more.

Spartanburg Art Museum

Located in the Chapman Cultural Center, the Spartanburg Art Museum showcases contemporary artwork from local and national artists. It’s a must-visit for art lovers. Visit their site.

Hub City Railroad Museum

Spartanburg is often called “Hub City” because of its rich railroad history. This museum provides an insightful look into the city’s connection to the rail industry, complete with historical exhibits and vintage railcars. Explore the museum.

Walnut Grove Plantation

Step back in time at this well-preserved 18th-century plantation. Tours offer a glimpse into colonial life, including restored buildings and period furnishings. Plan your visit.

Croft State Park

Nature lovers will appreciate Croft State Park, which offers hiking trails, fishing spots, and opportunities for horseback riding. The park spans over 7,000 acres, making it a perfect spot for outdoor adventures. More details here.

Things to Do in Spartanburg

Explore Downtown Spartanburg

Downtown Spartanburg offers a vibrant mix of shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. Stroll through Morgan Square, attend a live performance at the Chapman Cultural Center, or enjoy local craft beers at one of the city’s breweries.

Attend Spartanburg’s Festivals

Spartanburg hosts a variety of festivals throughout the year, including:

  • Spring Fling: A lively street festival with food, music, and vendors.
  • International Festival: Celebrate the city’s cultural diversity with performances, cuisine, and crafts.
  • Music on Main: A weekly summer concert series featuring local bands.

Visit BMW Zentrum Museum

Car enthusiasts will love the BMW Zentrum Museum, which highlights the history of BMW and its impact on the automotive industry. The museum also offers plant tours to see the manufacturing process in action. Learn more.

Where to Eat in Spartanburg

Cribbs Kitchen

Known for its gourmet burgers and creative cocktails, Cribbs Kitchen is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. View the menu.

The Beacon Drive-In

A Spartanburg institution since 1946, The Beacon serves up Southern comfort food and is famous for its chili-cheese a-plenty plates. Check it out.

Willy Taco

For Tex-Mex with a Southern twist, head to Willy Taco. Their tacos and margaritas are highly recommended. Explore the options.

FR8yard

This open-air beer garden offers great food, drinks, and live music. It’s a perfect spot to unwind in a relaxed setting. Visit FR8yard.

Places to Stay in Spartanburg

AC Hotel by Marriott Spartanburg

This stylish hotel in downtown Spartanburg offers modern amenities, an on-site restaurant, and rooftop views. Book your stay.

Spartanburg Marriott

A luxurious option with spacious rooms, a pool, and a convenient location near many attractions. Reserve a room.

Clevedale Historic Inn and Gardens

For a unique and charming experience, stay at this historic bed-and-breakfast. Learn more.

Hampton Inn & Suites Spartanburg-I-26 Westgate Mall

A comfortable and affordable choice with easy access to shopping and dining. View details.

Suggested Itineraries for Spartanburg

1-Day Itinerary

  • Morning: Start your day with a walk through Hatcher Garden. Follow up with a visit to the Spartanburg Art Museum.
  • Afternoon: Enjoy lunch at Cribbs Kitchen, then head to the Hub City Railroad Museum.
  • Evening: Wrap up your day with dinner at FR8yard and a stroll around Morgan Square.

Weekend Itinerary

Day 1:

  • Morning: Explore Walnut Grove Plantation.
  • Afternoon: Visit the BMW Zentrum Museum and enjoy lunch nearby.
  • Evening: Experience downtown Spartanburg and dine at Willy Taco.

Day 2:

  • Morning: Spend time at Croft State Park.
  • Afternoon: Have lunch at The Beacon Drive-In, then visit the Chapman Cultural Center.
  • Evening: End your trip with live music and craft beers at RJ Rockers Brewing Company.

Popular Landmarks: A Closer Look

Morgan Square, Spartanburg, SC

Directions:
Morgan Square is located at the intersection of Main Street and St. John Street in downtown Spartanburg. The square is easily accessible from most downtown parking areas, and there are multiple spots within walking distance.

Why to Go:
Morgan Square is the heart of Spartanburg’s downtown. It’s a beautifully landscaped public space where locals gather for events, and it often hosts outdoor concerts, markets, and festivals. It’s a great spot for a leisurely stroll, with benches and fountains offering a peaceful atmosphere.

What’s Special:
The square is surrounded by historic buildings and offers a vibrant blend of art, culture, and nature. Whether you’re visiting for a community event or just to relax, Morgan Square is a key landmark for experiencing Spartanburg’s charm.

Daniel Morgan Monument, Spartanburg, SC

Directions:
The Daniel Morgan Monument is located at the corner of East Main Street and Daniel Morgan Avenue, just a short walk from Morgan Square in downtown Spartanburg.

Why to Go:
This historic monument commemorates Revolutionary War hero Daniel Morgan, who played a crucial role in the Battle of Cowpens. It’s an important symbol of Spartanburg’s rich history and a must-see for history enthusiasts.

What’s Special:
The monument is a beautiful piece of public art that honors a key figure in American history. The nearby park offers green space to relax and reflect on the significance of Morgan’s contributions. It’s also a great spot for photography.

Spartanburg Historic District, Spartanburg, SC

Directions:
The Spartanburg Historic District spans the heart of downtown Spartanburg, accessible via Main Street and surrounding roads. It’s easily walkable from Morgan Square.

Why to Go:
The district is home to beautifully preserved buildings that date back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It’s perfect for those who love architecture and history. The district has a variety of shops, restaurants, and galleries to explore.

What’s Special:
The Historic District’s blend of historic charm and modern amenities makes it a perfect place to walk around and explore. It’s an excellent location for a leisurely day of sightseeing, dining, and shopping, with many local businesses and unique shops to discover.

Montgomery Building, Spartanburg, SC

Directions:
The Montgomery Building is located at 146 East Main Street in downtown Spartanburg, just a short distance from Morgan Square.

Why to Go:
This historic building is an example of early 20th-century architecture and adds to the charm of Spartanburg’s downtown. It’s worth a visit for those interested in the city’s architectural history.

What’s Special:
The Montgomery Building stands as a testament to Spartanburg’s growth in the early 1900s. Its design and history make it an iconic piece of the city’s skyline. It’s a prime example of the evolution of Spartanburg’s downtown area.

Spartanburg Memorial Auditorium, Spartanburg, SC

Directions:
Located at 385 North Church Street, the Spartanburg Memorial Auditorium is just a few blocks from the Spartanburg Historic District. It’s easily reachable by car or a short walk.

Why to Go:
This large venue hosts a variety of events, including concerts, performances, and community gatherings. If you’re visiting during an event, it’s the perfect spot to experience the city’s vibrant arts and entertainment scene.

What’s Special:
The Spartanburg Memorial Auditorium is an important cultural hub for the area. It features a variety of performances throughout the year, making it a great place for entertainment. Whether you’re attending a concert, theater show, or public event, it’s a must-visit for cultural experiences.

Additional Resources

Spartanburg offers a delightful blend of history, culture, and outdoor activities. No matter your interests, you’ll find plenty to see and do in this welcoming city.

Frequently Asked Questions About Spartanburg

Spartanburg is known for its historical significance, thriving arts scene, and as a hub for outdoor activities. It is also nicknamed “Hub City” due to its central role in the railroad industry during the 19th century.
The best time to visit Spartanburg is during the spring and fall months when the weather is mild, and the outdoor attractions are at their best.
Spartanburg is easily navigable by car. The city also offers public transportation through SPARTA buses, and many attractions are accessible by walking or biking.

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