This charming city in South Carolina is one of best places for retirees.

South Carolina is filled with towns that blend Southern hospitality, delicious food, and a touch of natural beauty—and Spartanburg is no exception.

Spartanburg, located between Charlotte and Atlanta is a hidden gem. It offers a variety of weekend getaways, including scenic parks, a walkable downtown, great coffee, and an exploding culinary scene and craft beer scene. Its balance between small-town charm and big-city energy is what makes it so special.

I recently spent some time exploring this vibrant Southern town and found myself amazed at its local events and activities, including minor league baseball, hidden trails, and locally-inspired restaurants.

Spartanburg was also named one of the best places to retire in South Carolina—which means you can expect exactly what I found: a friendly, welcoming atmosphere, remarkable affordability, and a balance of energy and relaxation. Spartanburg has it all, whether you like hiking, patios with strings lights, or sipping a peachy drink at a nearby brewery.

Plan your unforgettable vacation with these tips. South Carolina escape.

How to get There

If you’re flying in, the closest airport is Greenville-Spartanburg International (GSP), located about 30 minutes from downtown. GSP provides direct and affordable flights to and through major hubs including Atlanta, Charlotte Dallas Denver Miami and others.

Spartanburg’s easy to get to by car. It is about 1.5 hours drive from Columbia and less than 1,5 hours from Charlotte. It’s also roughly three hours drive from Atlanta. I took the scenic route from Virginia. It was a beautiful drive through farmland and scenic foothills.

Know Before You Go

Spartanburg offers a walkable city, affordability, and a unique personality. It’s growing fast, but the city still has a small-town feel. From baristas and bookstore owners to tourists, everyone I met was kind and proud of the city.

Zach Fox is the director of Spartanburg’s communications. He agrees that Spartanburg – particularly its downtown – is a warm and welcoming city. It is a blend of big-city amenities and small-town charm.

It’s important to bring comfortable shoes for those who enjoy the outdoors like me. The downtown area is surrounded by beautiful gardens, well-maintained trails and parks.

Last but certainly not least, you can also apply if your profession is a beer lover Come hungry and thirsty to Spartanburg, because it knows how flavorful food is.

The Best Time to Visit

Summer is a time of excitement, with outdoor concerts, baseball games and buzzing brewery patios. You can enjoy a relaxing garden or hike in the spring or fall. The mild weather, wildflowers blooming, and changing leaves are all equally beautiful.

Fox says his favorite time in Spartanburg is the fall, when the crisp, cool air finally rolls in after the hot, humid summer—a refreshing change that makes those first few weeks especially enjoyable.

What to Do in Best Things to See

Relax in Cleveland Park

This lakeside park features walking trails, trees that provide shade, and peaceful views. This was the perfect place to relax after a long day of exploring downtown.

Watch a Spartanburgers Minor League Baseball Game.

Take a seat and enjoy a night of baseball in Fifth Third Park. The energetic home crowd and family-friendly environment make it a great stop, whether you are a sports fanatic or simply there for the snacks.

Streaking Birdies will help you beat the heat.

Streaking Birdies offers a great way to avoid the sun while still staying active. This indoor golf facility, located opposite the AC Hotel, has high-tech simulators, a friendly atmosphere, and is a great place to practice your swing.

Hub City Bookshop & Little River Coffee Bar: Support local businesses

The following is a list of the most popular ways to contact us independent bookstore This downtown favorite is filled with Southern authors’ titles and delightful gifts. This is a great spot to browse, cool down, and support Spartanburg’s literary scene.

Right next door is Little River Coffee Bar. It is impossible to go wrong with a book and a tasty cup of coffee.

Go shopping downtown.

Spartanburg, with its walkable downtown, is home to a variety of shops. The area’s mix of boutiques gives it a welcoming, creative energy.

Fox says: “I always recommend a stroll in downtown Spartanburg. Especially because I came from there. [the city] When downtown was in real danger of dying, it was a very difficult time. There were few people and many storefronts were empty. It has certainly changed over the past years.

The Best Places To Stay

AC Hotel Spartanburg

The 10-story chic hotel is located in a central location. AC Hotel Spartanburg Located in downtown, it was the perfect place to stay during my trip. The rooftop restaurant offers stunning views of the city, and the art collection is curated throughout the entire property. The outdoor pool is a great way to cool down in the South Carolina heat. The property is located near coffee shops, restaurants and the baseball stadium.

Spartanburg Marriott

You can also find out more about the following: Spartanburg Marriott There is an outdoor pool as well as an American Restaurant with ample seating on the outside.

The Best Places to Eat

The Kennedy

It’s great when a restaurant offers high-quality, delicious food, without making it feel too formal. The Kennedy The sweet spot is hit. What really impressed me was the cocktail, the cheddar cookies, and the chicken Parmesan.

FR8yard

I am a huge fan of beergartens and was eager to visit FR8yardIt is known for its vibrant atmosphere, which welcomes dogs, children, and adults alike. Fox calls it one of the best places he’s ever been. “They offer a wide variety of drinks, and have some great bar food,” he says. The bar also has live music every night. And when they don’t have a show, they will often use a large screen to show sports events or movies.

Blue Moon Specialty Foods

Start the day with a delicious breakfast this gourmet market and cafe. I enjoyed the homemade sauces, and the Southern specialties. The quiche was my favorite.

Cribb’s Kitchen

Cribb’s Kitchen This is a must-visit for all burger fans. This modern bistro features a wide variety of sandwiches, Southern classics and other dishes, such as deviled egg and fried green tomato, in a warm and friendly atmosphere.

Fox’s favorite way to spend an afternoon is by combining a couple of local favorites. He would catch a Spartanburgers match, stop at FR8yard before or after the game, and finish off with a dinner at Cribb’s Kitchen.

Rockers Brewing Co.

For craft beer enthusiasts, Rockers Brewing Co. Local favorite known for its innovative brews, and welcoming taproom. The taproom is the perfect place to unwind while sampling Spartanburg’s top beers.