Explore
Spartanburg
There’s no better way to get to know a city than to explore it. Experience Spartanburg’s authentic dining, nightlife and active-living opportunities, and you’ll Love Where You Live like the locals do.
There’s no better way to get to know a city than to explore it. Experience Spartanburg’s authentic dining, nightlife and active-living opportunities, and you’ll Love Where You Live like the locals do.
Spartanburg is blossoming as a foodie destination. Whether you’re dining on a budget, or someone else is paying, you don’t need to look far for a tasty meal. Downtown Spartanburg has a complete collection of pizza and burger joints, coffee and ice cream shops, and international cuisine. Need even more? There are great diners, restaurants and bars well beyond downtown.
With year-round weather on our side, Spartanburg is home to plenty of festivals, events and community gatherings. Become a regular at Music on Main, ArtWalk and Second Sundays, or celebrate the season at the International Festival, Dickens of Christmas and Spring Fling. Follow the Chapman Cultural Center for arts and culture events or the City of Spartanburg for special events.
There’s no excuse not to get out there and get moving in Spartanburg. We’ve got more than 200 miles of walking and biking trails. Take a stroll along the Cottonwood Trail, ride a B-Cycle along the Rail Trail, or take in the fresh air at Croft State Park. Want to get wet? Rent a paddle board on Lake Cooley, or kayak down the Pacolet River. If sitting still is more your speed, there are plenty of parks in Spartanburg where you can simply sit back and relax – we recommend Cleveland Park, Duncan Park or Hub City Art Park.
We know you’ll probably explore the nightlife scene during your college days in Spartanburg. There are a collection of bars that cater to the college crowd, just don’t forget your 21+ ID! Most nightlife happens in the heart of downtown, but there are also a whole stream of underground spots to enjoy local brews, listen to live music, and dance the night away.
When you’re ready to move off-campus, there are lots of living options in the City. Check out the brand-new downtown apartments at Aug Smith on Main, The Montgomery Building and Church Street Lofts. Looking to live closer to campus? Choose a student hot-spot like Valley Falls Apartments, Campus Evolution Villages, or Drayton Mills Lofts.
Giving back is one of the best ways to get to know your community. Spartanburg is home to hundreds of nonprofits, many of which accept volunteers. Sign up for a service event through your campus, check out the service opportunities on our calendar, or volunteer for a need of a local nonprofit.