Things to Do in Spartanburg, SC
Nestled in the heart of South Carolina’s Upstate region, Spartanburg, SC, is one of the most fascinating destinations! It blends the lively urban setting with the serene beauty of nature very well. Whether you are walking down any historic street, taking a breath in the lush gardens, or engaging in any adventurous activities, there’s something exciting for every kind of traveller. From scenic parks to vibrant downtown spots, Spartanburg offers the perfect mix of adventure, culture, and great food.
Table of Contents
Having a lot on the plate, considering things to do in Spartanburg SC, often becomes overwhelming. Therefore, we’ve got a guide for you which informs you about all the places to go and stuff to do in Spartanburg. Prioritize the activities as you desire. However, in the hustle and bustle to explore more places, don’t forget to try the freshest seafood at Red Crab Juicy Seafood! It will be a perfect choice to end your day on a good note.
Explore the Hatcher Garden and Woodland Preserve
Imagine a place where the beauty of nature meets learning and a wildlife sanctuary. Sounds interesting, right? You can experience it at the Hatcher Garden and Woodland Preserve. Beyond the bustle of Spartanburg, you can visit this place to attend any event, lend a hand, or just stroll and explore. Speaking of events, this place organizes seasonal plant sales, art camps, and music in the garden, featuring various bands. Besides, every year, a noble tree contest is held for those residing in Spartanburg County, with the nomination announced at the ‘Twilight in the Garden’ event.
Among things to do in Spartanburg, you can explore the Hatcher Garden and Woodland Preserve for free. This garden, located at 832 John B White Sr Blvd, is open to the public every day. Thus, you can plan your visit between 7 AM and 8 PM to immerse yourself in the sounds of the changing seasons. However, to ensure a smooth experience, take notes of unpermitted things, such as carrying unleashed pets, smoking, littering, or picking flowers, etc.
Visit the NCG Cinema in Spartanburg
Considering the things to do in Spartanburg SC for couples, Neighborhood Cinema Group, also known as NCG Cinema, is a great option. It’s a family-owned movie theatre chain where you can watch romantic or thriller movies to enjoy and spend more time together. Even though it charges full price for the movie every day, Tuesdays are discount ticket days. Therefore, if you are on a low budget or seeking an economical plan, visit NCG Cinema on Tuesday. You’ll get tickets for most shows for about 6 dollars.
Visitors mention its comfortable seating and cozy atmosphere following the recent renovation. Moreover, free popcorn and drink refills are an add-on. So, in case you want to visit NCG Cinema, note down the opening hours! Throughout the week, it welcomes visitors from 11 AM to 9 PM, except on Mondays and Wednesdays. The timings are cut short on these days. The Cinema opens around 11 AM and closes at 7 PM.
Check Out Hollywild Animal Preserve
Leaving the social media world, technology, and daily life stress behind, Hollywild Animal Preserve is a perfect retreat. Once you surround yourself with nature and wildlife, you’ll see how you allow yourself to slow down and enjoy your hideout in nature. Are you wondering why Hollywild Animal Preserve? Why not some other place? Well, it’s considered among the unique things to do in Spartanburg SC, for the drive-through safari experience. For over 27 years, families have been visiting this park to experience an exceptional wildlife adventure.
Covering about 100 acres of land, this park is a refuge to approximately 400 domesticated, endangered, and wild animals. During the seasonal events, you can have the sight of millions of twinkling lights in this magical wonderland, captivating the hearts of visitors of all ages! For such an unforgettable experience, visit this place in the Wellford area, outside Spartanburg. You’ll get 1 to 2 hours for the drive-through, charging 15 to 25 Dollars per vehicle. However, costs may vary according to season. Besides, here’s one tip for you! Visit this place on weekdays and during early hours for fewer crowds and active animals.
Discover Cleveland Park in Spartanburg
If you are on a vacation with your family and searching for family things to do in Spartanburg SC, we’ve got your back with the Cleveland Park in Spartanburg. This place offers a perfect combination of outdoor fun activities and community events. You can engage in year-round activities like hiking and camping. If you don’t have an adventurous personality, you may take a walk around the walking trails, have fun with your children in the playgrounds, or arrange a picnic in the picnic areas.
As the park hosts numerous concerts and events throughout the year, families enjoy gathering in open spaces where nature adds to the relaxation. Although admission to this park is free, events may charge separately. Moreover, if you are short on time, you must know that 2 to 3 hours are more than enough to explore every corner of this park! Coming to the pro tip, don’t forget to carry a camera! You will get aesthetic photographs around the scenic pond. Additionally, to avoid the crowd and spend a peaceful time, visit this park during early hours on weekdays.
Fun Things to Do in Spartanburg
For fun things to do in Spartanburg SC for adults or families, you should explore the Trapped in the Upstate Escape Rooms in Spartanburg, SC. This place offers live game rooms for all ages. You have fun and learn more about your problem-solving skills by playing these games with your friends and family. However, coming to particularly fun family things to do in Spartanburg SC, the Children’s Museum of the Upstate and Spartanburg Science Center could be perfect. Both places ensure parent-child interaction and fun learning.
If your days are packed with plans and you are seeking things to do in Spartanburg SC at night, you can go bowling at UnderPin Lanes ‘N Lounge. Visit this place any day except Mondays, as it’s closed. However, on the other days, the bar and dining area alongside a bowling alley with 8 lanes will make your night unforgettable! Although many of these fun places entertain walk-in visitors, it’s better to make reservations to avoid any inconvenience. Besides, the charges at each of these places vary.
Visit the Glendale Shoals Preserve & Waterfalls
The Glendale Shoals Preserve & Waterfalls, dating back to the 19th century, is one of those places that can take your breath away with historic sights and a beautiful waterfall. Diving deep into its details, this place covers 13 acres of land. It offers the sight of the ruins of an ancient mill and bridge. The easy walking trails through these ruins and along the creek ensure a peaceful escape, making it one of the best things to do in Spartanburg SC.
As the ideal time to visit this place is 1 to 2 hours, you can count it in the list of things to do in Spartanburg SC today! History enthusiasts, nature lovers, and photographers would enjoy it the most. Wondering about the expenses? Keep your apprehensions aside! It’s completely free of cost. Now, since you’ve got no reason to skip visiting this place, here’s a tip! To get the best view and pictures, visit this place during the golden hours. Also, don’t rely completely on the GPS, as it may give you the wrong directions!
Enjoy a Day at Croft State Park
As the list of things to do in Spartanburg SC, continues, we’ve got a hidden gem for you! Located only a few minutes from Spartanburg, Croft State Park offers an extraordinary retreat to nature. Covering about 7054 acres of land, this park offers a pristine lake with scenic trails for hiking and biking. You can have fun at the lake by fishing and canoeing. However, if you aren’t up for any adventure or activity, and only want to take a deep breath in the fresh air, you can sit by the water’s edge.
Croft State Park is one of the perfect places to go in Spartanburg for families, hikers, nature enthusiasts, and photographers. If you consider it for the things to do in Spartanburg SC this weekend, you can explore the most in 3 to 5 hours. Nevertheless, make sure that you visit this place during the early hours of the day for cooler temperatures. Besides, if you intend to visit this park during the summer, don’t forget to carry insect repellent!
End Your Day with Delicious Seafood at Red Crab Juicy Seafood
Going from place to place can be fun and exhausting at the same time. Besides, to tick all the things to do in Spartanburg SC, it’s important to keep your energy levels high. Therefore, we’ve got a perfect plan for you to get nutrients and have fun in the same place. As you spend your whole day exploring new places and discovering hidden gems, end your day with a delicious seafood boil in Spartanburg SC, at Red Crab Juicy Seafood.
Red Crab is one of those seafood places that would never disappoint you! The friendly staff would ensure your warm welcome and be at your service until you leave the premises. Additionally, this place offers a comprehensive seafood menu with a variety of seafood items, like crab, lobster, shrimp, crawfish, and more. However, what makes it famous is the personalization feature. You can choose any seafood item and get it tossed in your favorite sauce. Moreover, you can adjust the spices to your liking, from no spices, mild, medium, hot, or extra hot.
frequently asked questions
What are the best things to do in Spartanburg, SC?
The list of the best things to do in Spartanburg SC is long! However, some of those include visiting the Glendale Shoals Preserve & Waterfalls and checking out the Hollywild Animal Preserve. Apart from these, adults can visit the RJ Rockers Taproom and The Silo for an unforgettable brewing experience.
Are there free things to do in Spartanburg, SC?
Yes! Among the free things to do in Spartanburg SC, you can explore the Hatcher Garden and Woodland Preserve. Additionally, you can engage in outdoor fun activities at Cleveland Park. Walking on the trails around the ancient ruins and water creek at Glendale Shoals Preserve & Waterfalls is also free!
What are fun things to do in Spartanburg for families?
On a trip to Spartanburg with family, you should visit Trapped in the Upstate Escape Rooms. By forming a group, you can play live problem-solving games. If there are children in your family, the Children’s Museum of the Upstate and Spartanburg Science Center can be a perfect choice for fun learning and parent-child interaction.
What can you do in downtown Spartanburg, SC?
For things to do in downtown Spartanburg SC, you should consider go-karting at Speed Factory and playing darts, pool, shuffleboard, and similar games at Craft Axe Throwing. These places are suitable for adults. Thus, if you visit these places, make a reservation to avoid inconvenience.
Where can I eat after visiting Spartanburg attractions?
You can eat at Red Crab Juicy Seafood! This place offers various seafood items, ensuring freshness and authenticity. You can personalize your seafood meals according to your preferences. Besides, a live bar and casual atmosphere with delicious seafood ensure an unforgettable dining experience.
Conclusion
Spartanburg, SC, is one of the best vacation destinations for its outdoor activities and cultural essence. Besides, no matter with whom you are visiting, be it your spouse, friends, or family, you can always engage in numerous fun activities. From sipping beer at any brewery to exploring scenic trails, each experience would gift you a lasting memory. However, don’t forget to consume good food! After exploring the best things to do in Spartanburg, SC, instead of searching ‘seafood near me’, visit Red Crab Juicy Seafood to enjoy bold Cajun flavors and a memorable seafood dining experience.