Nicknamed Hub City for the seven rail lines that once converged here, Spartanburg is a city on the rise — literally and figuratively. Downtown, new buildings are transforming the landscape, while plans for new pedestrian streets and green spaces around central Morgan Square are in the works. Baseball fans have a place to cheer for the Hub City Spartanburgers (High-A affiliate of the Texas Rangers) at the new stadium, Fifth Third Park.
A modern-day hub of visual and performing arts, the four-square-block Downtown Cultural District centers on Chapman Cultural Center, which provides a venue for Ballet Spartanburg, Spartanburg Little Theatre and the Spartanburg Philharmonic. Spartanburg Science Center and the Spartanburg Art Museum are also here, all under one remarkable roof.
Art lovers can peruse contemporary exhibits at Upstate Gallery on Main and iconic artwork of the American South at The Johnson Collection. Modern masterworks associated with legendary Black Mountain College in North Carolina are on display at AC Hotel Spartanburg.
Dig into the city’s railroad roots at Hub City Railroad Museum, a cool spot to train watch; then let the little ones spark their creativity at The Children’s Museum of the Upstate. A new addition to Spartanburg Headquarters Library, the Planetarium Learning Center features constellation talks in its domed theater.
Many a local crooner has found national fame, including The Marshall Tucker Band, Pink Anderson and The Sparkletones, the source of Spartanburg’s other moniker, Sparkle City. Learn more downtown along the Spartanburg Music Trail.
For contemporary music, there’s a robust performance roster (and addictive Pretzel Nugs) at Fr8yard, an outdoor biergarten built from shipping containers. If metal and punk are your jam, check out GroundZero.
Eat and Drink
At mainstay Cribb’s Kitchen, chef and founder William Cribb serves up craveable American fare.
The Art Deco fine-dining space at The Kennedy is just the place for a delicious dinner out.
Go to Rockers Brewing Co. for the tasty local brews and stay for the live music lineup.
Wade’s Restaurant received the James Beard Foundation America’s Classic Award in 2024 for its scratch-made meat-and-three meals and timeless appeal.
Come evening, head to The Zeplin, a new cocktail lounge in the basement of the Montgomery Building.
Shop
Independent Hub City Bookshop has the definitive collection of Southern literature. While there, grab a cup of joe from Little River Coffee Bar.
Local toy store Imagination Station has been sparking joy, creativity and learning since 1987.
James & James Collection is a one-stop shop for fine menswear, custom suits and accessories.
Paisley Paw carries all the treats, toys and supplies you need for your four-legged friends.
Find the latest trends in women’s clothing and jewelry at Two Doors Down.
