25 Best & Fun Things to Do in Spartanburg (SC)

Looking for the best & fun things to do in Spartanburg, SC?

Spartanburg is a city in South Carolina, United States, formed in 1785 and named after a local militia called the Spartan Regiment in the American Revolutionary War.

The city is one of the top tourist locations and the 12th-largest city by population in South Carolina.

There are many things to do and see in Spartanburg with its many attractions, which cut across various disciplines ranging from history to entertainment, art, adventure, and more.

Spartanburg is home to many unique and spectacular attractions, including Hollywild Animal Park, Milliken Arboretum, The Glendale Shoals Preserve, Hub City Railroad Museum, The Children’s Museum of the Upstate, and more.

Are you looking to make a list of things to do in Spartanburg? If yes, feel free to keep reading.

Things to Do in Spartanburg

1. Visit Cleveland Park

Another fun-filled park to visit in Spartanburg, Cleveland Park is a public park located in the Spartanburg historic center, adjacent to the Northside Redevelopment project.

Cleveland Park is one of the best places to visit if you are on a family vacation as it has something in store for individuals of all ages, including children.

Owned and operated by the Spartanburg County Parks Department, Cleveland Park has a lot to offer its visitors.

The park has many unique features, including a large playground, multiple picnic shelters, an island gazebo, a pond, and beautiful trails.

Home to the John B. Cleveland Event Center, Cleveland Park also serves as host to numerous community programs and events.

Other features of the Cleveland Park include outdoor fitness equipment, Amphitheater, Horseshoe Pit, Grill, Green Spaces, Multipurpose Room, Swings, and more.

The park’s facilities are available for rentals for birthday parties, wedding ceremonies, and other private functions.

Cleveland Park is one of the top attractions in Spartanburg, and it is definitely worth adding to your checklist of places to visit.

Address: 141 N Cleveland Park Dr, Spartanburg, SC 29303, United States

2. Hub City Railroad Museum

One of the best things to do in Spartanburg for train enthusiasts is exploring the Hub City Railroad Museum.

The Hub City Railroad Museum is one of the top museum attractions in Spartanburg. It is dedicated to showcasing engines and enlightening its visitors on the history of railroads in South Carolina.

The museum has many interesting exhibits, including a rear model of a train called the red engine.

While in this museum, visitors get to know how the railroads were connected to the textile and peach industries in South Carolina.

Other activities visitors can indulge in while at this museum include ringing the 1940 locomotive bell, operate a telegraph system, purchase souvenirs from the railroad gift shop, and more.

Additionally, This museum is also a perfect outdoor hangout area as it features comfortable picnic areas where visitors can relax and have fun.

The picnic areas are covered with beautiful grasses and features tables where visitors can place their picnic lunch and enjoy after exploring the various train engines that can be found in the area.

Hub City Railroad Museum is open to visitors on Wednesday and Saturday from 10am to 2pm.

Address: 298 Magnolia St, Spartanburg, SC 29303, United States

3. Hollywild Animal Park

Are you looking for things to do in Spartanburg with kids? If yes, add a visit to the Hollywild Animal Park to your checklist.

The Hollywild Animal Park is an exciting attraction in Spartanburg and one of the best places to visit with the family if you are in the area.

The Park features several animals which children and adults alike will love to see.

Some of the animals that can be spotted in Hollywild Animal Park include bison, deer, cattle, turtles, Scottish Highlanders, donkeys, emus, and more.

This nonprofit Animal Sanctuary is home to more than 500 animals, some of which have been featured in many movies and TV series.

Additionally, Hollywild Animal Park has interactive sections where visitors are allowed to hand-feed animals and play with them.

Visitors can also enjoy a safari ride in the park through the outback area, which comprises 70 acres filled with free-roaming animals.

Hollywild Animal Park also offers learning opportunities to visitors through field trips, outreach programs, camps, and programs for scouts.

Admission into the park is $9 for adults and $7 for children.

Address: 2325 Hampton Rd Inman SC USA Spartanburg

4. Hatcher Garden and Woodland Preserve

Covering about 12 acres of land space, the Hatcher Garden and Woodland Preserve is a beautiful natural attraction in Spartanburg which is worth adding to your checklist of places to visit.

The Hatcher Garden and Woodland Preserve feature a conifer garden that comprises over 200 species of plants, including trees and shrubs.

Among the many plant species found in the garden include pines, shrubs, junipers, firs, spruces, sequoias, and lots more.

Creeping cypresses such as the bald cypress and others can also be found in the Hatcher Garden and Woodland Preserve.

Other features of the woodland preserve include seasonal flower gardens, dense forests, reflective ponds, meandering creeks, and a cascading waterfall.

The Hatcher Garden and Woodland Preserve are also home to different kinds of birds and wildlife.

Feel free to explore the gardens and preserve through any of the available walking trails or paved pathway.

The Hatcher Garden and Woodland Preserve is open to the public, and admission is free.

One of the most frequented tourist attractions in Spartanburg, The Hatcher Garden and Woodland Preserve is one of the best places to visit to experience nature.

Address: 832 John B White Sr Blvd, Spartanburg, SC 29306, United States

5. The Children’s Museum of the Upstate

One of the best things to do in Spartanburg with kids is visiting the Children’s Museum of the Upstate.

The Children’s Museum of the Upstate is a unique but spectacular museum attraction designed for children aged 5 and below.

The museum has several interactive all of which are developed on a smaller scale most suitable for early learners.

The museum features counters built to suit the children’s height and there are also padded crawling areas, perfect for infants.

The Children’s Museum of the Upstate provides an appropriate and excellent environment where kids can learn in a fun way.

Among the many sections of this museum is the Palmetto Basics Toddler Zone, perfect for children ages 18 months and under and teaches healthy lifestyle choices through collaborative pretend play.

Another special section among many KS the Spartanburg Regional Healthcare System, where the kids can play the role of doctor, caregiver, or patient through imaginative pretend play.

The Children’s Museum of the Upstate is open on Tuesday through Saturday from 9am to 5pm and closed on Sunday and Monday.

This makes what to do in Spartanburg, SC, with the kids, consider an addition to your bucket list if they are tagging along.

Address: 130 Magnolia St, Spartanburg, SC 29306, United States

6. Edwin M. Griffin Nature Preserve

Among the many natural attractions in Spartanburg, Edwin M. Griffin Nature Preserve is worth adding to your checklist of places to visit while in the area.

Edwin M. Griffin Nature Preserve is a beautiful nature area that covers over 115 acres of land space.

This vast nature area comprises diverse geography ranging from grasslands, wetlands, and geographical features.

Edwin M. Griffin Nature Preserve also features different species of beautiful flowers and plants that are amazing to behold.

Also, the preserve is habitat to different kinds of animal including beavers, wild turkeys, fox, deer, raccoons, and more.

Among the many activities individuals can indulge in while in this nature preserve, you can take to hiking and biking on any of the trails which cut across the area.

Other activities that can be carried out in the Edwin M. Griffin Nature Preserve include canoeing, kayaking, picnicking and more.

Visiting the Edwin M. Griffin Nature Preserve is one of the best fun things to do in Spartanburg for an outdoor time.

Address: Beechwood Dr, Spartanburg, SC 29307, United States

7. Artists Collective | Spartanburg

Are you interested in art? If yes, add a visit to the Art connoisseurs throng to your list of things to do in Spartanburg.

Artists Collective is an amazing art center focused on assisting young, local, budding artists and bringing the community together through art.

The art center is Housed by a building made using red stones and spans about 20,000 square feet.

The building which houses the Artists Collective was once a Baptist Church which still gives the surrounding an ancient vibe making it a unique place to watch art while in Spartanburg.

Artists Collective comprises about 32 studios which inspire art lovers by displaying the beautiful works of as many as 40 artists at a time.

Additionally, the Artists Collective has other remarkable exhibits which are on rotation throughout the year.

If you a true art enthusiast, exploring the various art galleries in this art center should not be left out in your checklist of things to do while in the area.

Address: 578 W Main St, Spartanburg, SC 29301, United States

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8. Spartanburg Historic District

One of the best things to do in Spartanburg for those interested in history is touring the Spartanburg Historic District.

Spartanburg Historic District is a significant historical area listed in the National Register of Historic Places in 1983.

Originally made up of only Morgan square, the district portray some of the vital histories of Spartanburg and featurs the renowned Daniel Morgan monument.

Over the years, the district was expanded due to economic and commercial reasons. It is now made up of a vast area that features railroads and different textile industries.

In Spartanburg Historic District are spectacular buildings and architectures which predates the 19th and early 20th century.

Most of the ancient buildings in the district are two or three-story structures made with materials that give it a Roman-style look.

Among the various ancient structures you should look out for while in the Spartanburg district include the Cleveland hotel, the waterworks building, and the Masonic Temple.

Spartanburg Historic District is one of the best places to visit in Spartanburg for architecture enthusiasts with its many ancient architectural wonders.

9. Spartanburg County Regional Museum of History

Spartanburg County Regional Museum of History is an exciting museum attraction Located at Chapman Cultural Center, on the second floor of the west wing.

A large room of historical wonders, this Museum of History is filled with historical exhibits and relics collected through over 400 years of Spartanburg County history.

Most of the relics are carefully displayed on an easy-to-follow timeline and features interactive computers which give detailed information on each of the items available in various exhibits.

Among the many exhibits featured in this museum of history is the Pardo Stone, which was discovered by a farmer in Inman, it is known to be the oldest piece in the museum.

Spartanburg County Regional Museum of History also features other temporary exhibits which are on rotation throughout the year.

Admission into the museum is $4 for adults, $3 for seniors and veterans, $2 for children aged 6 to 17, and free for children aged 5 and below.

Visit the Regional Museum of history on Tuesday to Saturday from 10am to 4:30pm.

Address: 200 E St John St, Spartanburg, SC 29306, United States

10. The Wade’s Restaurant

To experience a feel of history alongside dining, visit the Wade’s Restaurant while you are in Spartanburg, SC.

Established in 1947, Wade’s Restaurant is a wonderful and unique restaurant that offers classic and delicious delicacies in a beautiful setting.

The restaurant menu features delicious Southern homemade cuisine expertly prepared using carefully selected fresh and locally sourced ingredients.

The Wade’s Restaurant has a beautiful and neat interior which gives a conducive and comfortable environment where visitors can enjoy any of the available delicacies of their choice.

Some of the delicious delicacies found in the restaurants’ menu include chicken pie, hush puppies, turnip greens, homemade meatloaf, pecan pie, and more.

The Wade’s Restaurant is open to visitors on Saturdays from 11am to 8pm and on Sundays from 11am to 3pm.

Address: 1000 N Pine St, Spartanburg, SC 29303, United States

11. Westgate Mall

For a unique and memorable shopping experience, visit the Westgate Mall while you are in Spartanburg.

With a lot to offer its visitors, the Westgate Mall is a remarkable shopping center frequented by tourists and locals.

Westgate Mall comprises several unique and popular brands which serve different kinds of goods and services.

Among the many famous brands featured in this mall include JC Penney, Bed Bath & Beyond, Dick’s Sporting Goods, Costco, Belk, and more.

This main shopping center also features impressive facilities and amenities to give its visitors a comfortable and unique shopping experience.

Some of these facilities and amenities include modern restrooms, accessible parking, ATMs, and lots more.

Feel free to come along with the kids while visiting the Westgate Mall as it has a safe and easily accessible play area where the kids can have fun as you go for a shopping spree.

Westgate Mall is one of the best shopping centres in Spartanburg and one of the best to shop at while in the area.

Address: 205 W Blackstock Rd, Spartanburg, SC 29301, United States

12. Jammie Seay House

One of the best things to do in Spartanburg for history and architectural lovers is stopping by the Jammie Seay House.

Jammie Seay House is a spectacular historic building, recognized as the oldest still-standing house in Spartanburg.

Known to have been built between 1770 to the 1800s, Jammie Seay House has ancient architectural pattern which give its visitors a clear picture of the houses of old in Spartanburg.

This historic one-story log house was built by a soldier in the second Virginia infantry during the Revolutionary War, by the name, Jammie Seay.

Jammie Seay House consists of a chimney, a gabled roof, and a loft. The house was listed on the National Register of Historic places in 1971.

Currently owned and managed by the Spartanburg County Historical Association, Jammie Seay House is open to tours.

Address: 106 Darby Rd, Spartanburg, SC 29306, United States

13. OnAgain OffAgain Farm

If you wish to see some award-winning alpacas, add a visit to the OnAgain OffAgain Farm to your checklist of things to do in Spartanburg.

OnAgain OffAgain Farm is a family-owned and operated alpacas farm that was established in 2009.

The farm is primarily focused on raising and breeding stock as well as alpacas for fiber and pets.

OnAgain OffAgain Farm provides fiber that is hypoallergenic, warm, and has different uses, ranging from making fine garments to insulation.

Additionally, OnAgain OffAgain Farm offers breeding services, and it has a store that has many products made from alpaca fibers.

Some of the items available in the store include raw fleece, rug yarn, bird nesting balls, roving, felted soaps, dryer balls, felt sheets, and other handknitted items such as scarves, hats, and toys.

The store also offers the USA made alpaca, boot insoles, socks, hats, and lots more.

OnAgain OffAgain Farm also provides never-ending supply of alpaca poo that can be used as fertilizers for farmers and gardeners.

Address: 262 Hollis Dr, Spartanburg, SC 29307, United States

14. Motte & Sons Bootlegging Company

An unusual but striking attraction in Spartanburg, the Motte and Sons Bootlegging Company, is also worth adding to your checklist of places to visit in Spartanburg.

A family-owned and operated , the Motte and Sons Bootlegging Company offers various fine spirits, some of which include vodka, brandy, whiskey, and rum.

Situated at Daniel Morgan Avenue, this spectacular distillery is open for guided tours by interested visitors.

While on the tour, visitors get an opportunity to explore the facility and taste the several handcrafted tipples.

Motte & Sons Bootlegging Company also has a handmade custom packaged selection of nuts and candy available for sale.

Visitors can purchase any of the custom packaged candy and nuts as gifts or souvenirs for their loved ones.

Address: 220 E Daniel Morgan Ave, Spartanburg, SC 29302

15. Croft State Park

For a memorable outdoor time, add a visit to the Croft State Park to your checklist of things to do in Spartanburg.

Croft State Park is a beautiful tourist attraction that was once an army training base and it is also one of the best places to visit in Spartanburg for a fun time.

Covering over 7,000 acres of land space, Croft State Park is a vast area of wooded terrain located close to downtown Spartanburg.

The park has a lot to offer its visitors, including hiking and biking on the 20 miles trail available in the area.

Other activities that can be carried out in this park include picnicking, camping, and having fun on the available safe playground.

For visitors who take to fishing and boating, there are two lakes in the area where they can freely indulge in these activities.

Additionally, Croft State Park is also famous for Horseback riding, and the park is recognized nationwide for its equestrian facilities.

Admission into Croft State Park is $3 for adults, $1.50 SC seniors, and $1 for children from 6 to 15 years of age. Children at the age of 5 and below can get in for free.

This makes what to do in Spartanburg, SC for some exploration time, consider an addition to your bucket list of Spartanburg SC attractions to visit.

Address: 450 Croft State Park Rd, Spartanburg, SC 29302, United States

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16. RJ Rockers Brewing Company

Are you looking for some of the best brewery products in Spartanburg? if yes, do not omit a visit to RJ rockers Brewing Company from your Spartanburg things to do list.

Located in the downtown area of Spartanburg, the RJ rockers Brewing Company is a locally owned and operated family business that offers some of the best beers and rums in the city.

Though a small brewery company, RJ rockers Brewing Company is a remarkable place to visit for wine lovers. They also offer some of the best whiskeys and Bourbons in Spartanburg.

RJ rockers Brewing Company is powered by solar, and this helps it maintain a friendly and comfortable environment.

Most of the spirits available in the RJ rockers Brewing Company are brewed using recipes which have been constantly improved for over 22 years now.

RJ rockers Brewing Company is open for tasting tours on Thursdays through Saturdays.

Additionally, the brewery hosts music sessions and trivia nights where customers can come and have fun while sipping any wine of their choice.

Address: 226-A W Main St, Spartanburg, SC 29306, United States

17. Anderson’s Mill

Another historic structure in Spartanburg, Anderson’s Mill is worth adding to your checklist of places to visit if you are interested in history.

Anderson’s Mill is a significant historical attraction in Spartanburg, which was completed in the late 19th century.

History has it that the foundation of the Mill dates as far back as the 18th century, making it a point of interest for any history enthusiasts.

Anderson’s Mill has been a part of the National Register of Historic places since 1988. The building comprises a main floor, a basement, an attic, and Christ at the base.

Located on the west side of the river, Anderson’s Mill has not been functional since 1975. The mill is still in shape, but its windows are positioned irregularly.

Address:

18. Mary Black Rail Trail

A trail worth exploring while you are in Spartanburg, SC, is the Mary Black Rail Trail, a 6.1-kilometer trail that is opened to the public.

Mary Black Rail Trail is built what used to be the Norfolk Southern rail line, once called the Spartanburg-Union Railroad, that was constructed in 1849.

The Mary Black Rail Trail is however paved, flat, and cuts across Spartanburg’s industrial neighborhood.

Popular among tourists and locals, the trail is basically used for walking, running, and road biking.

Open all year round, you can hike the trail with your dogs with the condition that they must be kept on leash.

19. Milliken Arboretum

To witness some of the beauty of nature Spartanburg has to offer, visit the Milliken Arboretum located on the private corporate campus of Milliken and Company.

Part of this 600 acres beautifully manicured greenspace campus, the Milliken Arboretum is a nationally recognized arboretum with lots of beautiful plants and flowers.

The Milliken Arboretum was once a peach orchard, and it features a system of official trails.

The Arboretum is a popular space for several 5 K cross-country events, including the NCAA National Cross-Country Championship, Eye Opener Cross-Country Race, Jr. Olympic National Cross-Country Championship, and Milliken Earth Run.

Feel free to visit them while in the Milliken Arboretum while in the area as it is open to the public.

Opened from Dawn to dusk, a visit to Milliken Arboretum is one of the best free things to do in Spartanburg, SC.

Address: 920 Milliken Road Spartanburg, SC 29303, United States

20. The Crepe Factory

To get some of the most delicious crepes in Spartanburg, visit The Crepe Factory, a unique, quaint store with a lot to offer.

The most delectable crepes in Spartanburg can be found at this quaint store, the Crepe factory.

With many goodies to offer its visitors, The Crepe Factory has something in store for everyone, be it savory or sweet crepes.

The Crepe Factory is a perfect place to visit with the family or loved ones for brunch as they also serve freshly brewed delicious coffee, which can be paired with their amazing crepes.

Aside from crepes and coffee, The Crepe Factory also has a menu that features yummy sandwiches and salads.

Also, this eatery has a beautiful setting with beautiful decor, which creates a comfortable environment to relax as you enjoy the crepes.

With its well-ventilated structure, The Crepe Factory also features a fireplace and a perfect seating arrangement.

Do not forget to add The Crepe Factory to your checklist of places to visit in Spartanburg for brunch.

Address: 137 W Main St, Spartanburg, SC 29306, United States

21. The Zimmerli Amphitheater

Located in Barnet Park, The Zimmerli Amphitheater is a huge and beautiful amphitheater that is quite famous in Spartanburg.

The Zimmerli Amphitheater has a great seating capacity and was constructed using funds donated by the Zimmerli Family.

The Amphitheater can comfortably accommodate 1,100 spectators, and its surrounding lawn can accommodate 4,900 more.

With this large seating capacity, Zimmerli Amphitheater hosts a major international festival and various events throughout the year.

The amphitheater also serves as a host to several musicals and concerts, making it a perfect place to visit if you have an interest in music.

Most of the events hosted in this amphitheater are open to the public, and some are even free. This makes visiting the Zimmerli Amphitheater one of the best free things to do in Spartanburg.

Address: 200 E St John St, Spartanburg, SC 29306, United States

22. Glendale Shoals Preserve

To enjoy amazing sights alongside having fun, add a visit to the Glendale Shoals Preserve to your checklist of top things to do in Spartanburg.

The Glendale Shoals Preserve is a beautiful nature preserve in Spartanburg covering about 13 acres of land space.

One of the most frequented tourist attractions in Spartanburg, Glendale Shoals Preserve has several unique features, including a dam and a waterfall.

The beauty captured in this unique attraction gives it a perfect picturesque scenery which any Photography enthusiast will love to add a picture or two to his/her portfolio.

There are many things to do while in Glendale Shoals Preserve, one of them being hiking through any of its popular trails.

The Glendale Shoals Preserve also boost bird watching as different species of birds flock to the area due to its varied landscapes and dense foliage.

The preserve also has something in store for history enthusiasts, one of which is the Glendale mill that once stood in the area. The ruins of the mill can still be spotted alongside other ruins that predate the 19th century.

Address: Emma Cudd Rd, Spartanburg, SC 29302, United States

23. BMW Zentrum

A rare but spectacular attraction, BMW Zentrum is a famous museum in Spartanburg which offers all there is to know about BMW.

BMW Zentrum focuses on bringing the history of BMW to its visitors, starting from its beginnings to its rise to prominence worldwide.

The only BMW museum in South Carolina and North America in general, BMW Zentrum, features many interesting exhibits capable of exciting any car enthusiast.

Please take a tour of this museum to witness some of its mind-blowing exhibits, including numerous milestones in racing and traveling vehicles.

Among the notable exhibits that can be found in BMW Zentrum include the famous Isetta “Bubblecar,” a very significant automobile from BMW’s past.

The museum also features several old beautifully restored BMW vehicles taking you on a mind trip through BMW history.

There are several current BMW classics that consist of state-of-the-art technologies and rarely seen models that can be spotted in the museum’s exclusive collection.

BMW Zentrum is open for visitors on Monday through Friday from 9:30am to 5:30pm and closed on Saturday and Sunday.

24. Ciclops Cyderi & Brewery

Are you looking for a relaxing location to kick back and enjoy tasty beverages and delectable appetizers? If yes, go to Ciclops Cyderi & Brewery to socialize with the locals.

Ciclops Cyderi & Brewery has a no-discrimination policy, offers gender-neutral restrooms, and is wheelchair accessible. Feel free to bring your dogs. If you visit in a personal vehicle, there is adequate parking.

Relax and try out some of the delicious appetizers while you listen to music, accompanied by drinks and games. Their veggie and cheese plates are a visitor’s favorite on the food menu.

This establishment has built a great reputation in the sight of its visitors as it is always lively. They offer a variety of beers and ciders, and unlike an average brewery environment, the facility is completely kids friendly.

A nice time to visit this location is on Karaoke night; lively but not very crowded. They also welcome group visits, so feel free to visit with friends and coworkers for a weekend fun night.

Ciclops Cyderi & Brewery also offers live musical performances by local and regional bands. It is also a lovely place to celebrate a birthday party, but you must call and make a reservation beforehand.

Address: 197 E St John St, Spartanburg, SC 29306, USA

25. Hobo Hollar Farms

If you love to cook homely meals with freshly produced ingredients, or you’re someone who is fascinated by farms, you will enjoy a visit to Hobo Hollar Farms.

The farm offers so much sightseeing and so much produce that it would be difficult to mention them all. The spectacular part is that Hobo Hollar Farms processes all of its produce on-site.

You can also visit the farm to see fields of vegetables, corn, fruits, and more. The farm also produces freshly made ciders, fruit juices, syrups, nuts, chips, and baked items such as banana muffins and fruit cakes.

People from neighboring towns come here to stock up on sweet and Irish potatoes and other products they might not find at home. The farm is a hot spot for people looking for natural carbs, proteins, and vitamins.

Aside from food items, you can also purchase natural and artificial landscaping supplies to give your home a natural look at Hobo Hollar Farms.

Some of the products you can find at the farm include apples, Beets, figs, green onions, cilantro, cabbage, blueberries, butter beans, Pecans, Peas, Pumpkins, Peanuts, and lots more.

Address: 124 Old Converse Rd, Spartanburg, SC 29307, United States

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Plan to visit Spartanburg

Filled with many unique and fun-filled attractions to explore, Spartanburg is a perfect place to visit for a vacation.

The city has something in store for everyone as it has several attractions which are suitable for individuals of all ages, including children.

Start planning your trip to this beautiful city. Feel free to quickly refer back to this article while making your checklist of things to do in Spartanburg.