Looking for the perfect way to spend a day in Spartanburg? Here are some ideas to fill your day with adventure, learning, and sightseeing in the Hub City.
Start your morning off right with a coffee from Little River Coffee Bar, a specialty coffee shop serving rich coffee alongside delicious scones, muffins, biscuits, fresh bread, and more. Little River Coffee Bar is located in the historic 1927 Masonic Temple. Take a moment to admire the building’s architecture as you stroll next door to Hub City Bookshop. Browse the selection of Southern literature, literary fiction and nonfiction, history, and children’s books, and don’t forget to stop and pet the shop cat, Zora!
Zora, the Hub City Bookshop cat
Just steps outside the bookshop, you’ll find yourself in Daniel Morgan Square, the heart of the Downtown Cultural District. Daniel Morgan Square is a hub of activity, offering shops, restaurants, free events, and live music throughout the year. At the center of the square stands a statue of Revolutionary War hero General Daniel Morgan. The monument was erected in 1881 to commemorate the centennial of the victory at the Battle of Cowpens, drawing thousands of spectators from across the country to its unveiling.
Daniel Morgan Statue in Downtown Spartanburg
After snapping a few photos of the monument, you’ll spot your first signpost along the Spartanburg Music Trail. Each signpost tells the story of a celebrated artist and allows visitors to hear the music that helped launch them onto the national stage. Presented by the Spartanburg Philharmonic, the Spartanburg Music Trail honors musicians from the area who have made a national or international impact on the music industry. As new inductees are added, the trail continues to expand throughout downtown.
Spartanburg Music Trail
Next, dive deeper into Spartanburg’s arts scene at the Chapman Cultural Center, the city’s hub for the arts and humanities. Catch a matinee performance at the theatre, explore the hands-on exhibits at the Spartanburg Science Center, or visit the Spartanburg Art Museum. The museum rotates featured artists throughout the year, so you never know what might inspire you during your visit.
Spartanburg Art Museum located in the Chapman Cultural Center
By now, you’ve probably worked up an appetite! Stop by Cribb’s Kitchen for lunch. Don’t miss the smoked wings, creative sandwiches and burgers, or the extensive dessert menu featuring seasonal local fruits and produce. Chef William Cribb, a 2017 South Carolina Chef Ambassador, has created a menu of inventive dishes that you won’t want to miss.
After a delicious meal, a walk in the park is in order. Check Hatcher Garden and Woodland Preserve off your Spartanburg bucket list. What began as a backyard project on three acres more than 50 years ago has blossomed into a 13-acre protected woodland and botanical garden. As you stroll the peaceful trails, you’ll discover beautiful flowers, native plants, wildlife, tranquil streams, and plenty of picturesque spots to enjoy nature.
Hatcher Garden and Woodland Preserve
Once you’ve walked off lunch, step back in time at Walnut Grove Plantation. Here, you’ll visit a historic 360-acre property dating back to 1763. Guided tours take you through the manor house, kitchen cabin, and Rocky Spring Academy while sharing the story of the Moore family, their settlement of the South Carolina Backcountry, their involvement in the Revolutionary War, and everyday life during colonial times.
You’ll also have the opportunity to visit the doctor’s office, dry cellar, blacksmith forge, barn, smokehouse, wheat house, historic gardens, family cemetery, and the newly updated nature trail.
Walnut Grove Plantation
For dinner, head back downtown for an upscale dining experience at Rick Erwin’s Level Ten. Spartanburg’s premier steakhouse offers stunning 360-degree views of the city while overlooking Fifth Third Park, home of the Hub City Spartanburgers.
Spartanburg is the perfect destination for a day immersed in art, history, and culture. Whether you’re exploring museums, strolling scenic gardens, enjoying exceptional local dining, or discovering the city’s rich musical heritage, you’ll find plenty to experience in the Hub City.
For even more ways to experience Spartanburg and discover hidden gems, local favorites, and fresh inspiration for your next visit, visit Experience Spartanburg.