Spartanburg Travel Guide

Discover the top things to do, places to visit, where to stay, and local culture of Spartanburg, South Carolina. Plan your visit today with this comprehensive travel guide.


Comprehensive Travel Guide to Spartanburg, South Carolina

Located in Upcountry South Carolina, Spartanburg is a vibrant city surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty, rich history and culture, and endless opportunities for outdoor adventures. With so much to see and do, it can be hard to know where to start. That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive travel guide to help you plan the perfect trip to Spartanburg.

List of Places to Visit in Spartanburg

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Spartanburg County Historical Association: Explore the rich history of Spartanburg through exhibits, interactive displays, and special events.

  2. Hub City Railroad Museum: Discover the story of the railroad and its impact on Spartanburg.

  3. Spartanburg Art Museum: One of the region’s leading art museums, featuring local, regional, and national contemporary art.

Natural Attractions of Spartanburg: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Croft State Park: With miles of hiking and biking trails, fishing and boating opportunities, and even an equestrian center, there’s something for everyone at Croft State Park.

  2. Hatcher Garden and Woodland Preserve: A beautiful oasis in the middle of the city, featuring over 10 acres of gardens and walking paths.

  3. Glendale Shoals Preserve: A popular spot for kayaking and fishing, this 13-acre park is also home to historic mill ruins.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Spartanburg

  1. Northside Greenway Trail: A 2-mile unpaved trail that winds through urban and natural environments, providing a peaceful respite from the city.

  2. Hub City Connector Trail: A popular biking and walking trail that connects several parks and neighborhoods throughout the city.

  3. Cottonwood Trail: A 115-acre nature preserve with over 4 miles of hiking and biking trails, scenic views, and a variety of flora and fauna.

Best Things to Do in Spartanburg: Activities and Tours

  1. Chapman Cultural Center: A hub for the arts in Spartanburg, featuring galleries, theaters, and a variety of cultural events.

  2. Spartanburg Philharmonic Orchestra: Enjoy live classical and pops music performances by the region’s premier symphony orchestra.

  3. Carolina Panthers Training Camp: Catch a glimpse of NFL superstar Cam Newton and the rest of the Carolina Panthers during their annual summer training camp in Spartanburg.

Week-Long Itinerary for Spartanburg

Day Activities
1 Explore Spartanburg’s historic landmarks, including Spartanburg County Courthouse and Morgan Square.
2 Enjoy an outdoor adventure at Croft State Park, with hiking, biking, and equestrian trails.
3 Take a tour of nearby Cowpens National Battlefield and learn about this important Revolutionary War battle.
4 Discover the region’s arts and culture scene at Chapman Cultural Center and Spartanburg Art Museum.
5 Relax and unwind at Hatcher Garden and Woodland Preserve.
6 Experience the thrill of a Carolina Panthers Training Camp practice or enjoy a live concert at the Spartanburg Memorial Auditorium.
7 End your trip with a delicious meal and drinks at one of Spartanburg’s many local restaurants and breweries.

Food and Drink Scene of Spartanburg

Must-Try Dishes

  1. BBQ: Spartanburg is famous for its BBQ, with several local joints serving up delicious pulled pork, ribs, and chicken.

  2. Potatoes: A true Spartanburg classic, you can’t visit the city without trying a famous Spartanburg Potato.

  3. Sweet Tea: A Southern staple, sweet tea is a must-try when visiting Spartanburg.

Local Beverages

  1. RJ Rockers Brewing Company: The first brewery in Spartanburg, RJ Rockers serves up a variety of handcrafted beers and hosts live music and events.

  2. Ciclops Cyderi and Brewery: Enjoy craft ciders and beers in a lively atmosphere at this popular brewery.

  3. Wine Tasting: There are several wineries in the area, including Campbell’s Covered Bridge and Mountain Brook Vineyards, where you can sample local wines.

Where to Stay in Spartanburg: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  1. The Westin Spartanburg: A stylish hotel in the heart of downtown Spartanburg, featuring luxurious amenities and a rooftop pool.

  2. The Clevedale Historic Inn and Gardens: A romantic and historic bed and breakfast with beautiful gardens, perfect for a relaxing getaway.

  3. Hostel Spartanburg: Budget-friendly accommodations in a fun and vibrant atmosphere.

What to Buy in Spartanburg: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  1. Potatoes: Bring home a bag of Spartanburg Potatoes, the city’s famous potato dish.

  2. Local Art: Browse the galleries and shops around Chapman Cultural Center for unique and beautiful local artwork.

  3. BBQ Sauce: Take home a jar of authentic Spartanburg BBQ sauce to add some Southern flavor to your next barbecue.

Local Culture and Customs of Spartanburg

Spartanburg is known for its friendly and welcoming culture, with a strong sense of community and Southern hospitality. Visitors should be prepared to say “hello” to everyone they meet and strike up a conversation with locals, who are always happy to share their stories and recommendations.

Best Time to Visit Spartanburg

The best time to visit Spartanburg is during the fall and spring, when the weather is mild and comfortable. However, the city has something to offer visitors year-round, with plenty of indoor activities and winter sports at nearby ski resorts during the colder months.

Do’s and Don’ts of Spartanburg

Do:

  • Do try the local BBQ, sweet tea, and Spartanburg Potatoes.

  • Do explore the city’s rich history and culture, including its many museums and landmarks.

  • Do take advantage of the stunning natural beauty of the area, with hiking, biking, and boating opportunities.

Don’t:

  • Don’t be afraid to strike up a conversation with locals. They love to share their stories and recommendations.

  • Don’t forget to pack sunscreen and insect repellent when exploring the great outdoors.

  • Don’t miss out on the city’s many live music and cultural events.

Safety and Health

Safety in Spartanburg

Spartanburg is generally a safe city, but visitors should still take precautions when traveling, especially at night. Be aware of your surroundings and avoid walking alone in unfamiliar areas.

Health in Spartanburg

Spartanburg has several hospitals and healthcare facilities, including Spartanburg Regional Medical Center and Mary Black Health System. Visitors with specific medical needs should consult their insurance provider before traveling.

Getting to Spartanburg: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Spartanburg

  • Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport (GSP): Located approximately 20 miles from downtown Spartanburg, GSP is the closest major airport to the city.

  • Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT): Located approximately 74 miles from downtown Spartanburg, CLT is a larger airport with more flight options.

Bus Stations Near Spartanburg

  • Greyhound Bus Lines: Located at 100 Francis Ave in Spartanburg, this bus station offers service to several major cities in the region.

Other Options

  • Amtrak: The nearest Amtrak station is located in Greenville, approximately 30 miles from Spartanburg.

  • Car Rental: Several car rental companies, including Enterprise and Hertz, have locations in Spartanburg.

How to Get Around in Spartanburg

The best way to get around Spartanburg is by car, as the city is spread out and public transportation is limited. However, there are several inexpensive taxi and rideshare services available, such as Uber and Lyft.

Where to Go Next from Spartanburg: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. Asheville, NC: Just an hour’s drive from Spartanburg, Asheville is a vibrant and artistic city surrounded by the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains.

  2. Greenville, SC: Located just 30 miles from Spartanburg, Greenville is a charming city with a thriving arts and culture scene, beautiful parks, and world-class dining.

  3. Charlotte, NC: A larger city with plenty of Southern charm, Charlotte is just over an hour’s drive from Spartanburg and offers a variety of attractions and entertainment options.

Conclusion

Spartanburg is truly a gem of the South, with something to offer visitors of all ages and interests. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or just a relaxing getaway, Spartanburg has it all. Use this comprehensive travel guide to plan your visit today!

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