While you’re in the Upstate, don’t miss the chance to visit the Arts Center in Spartanburg, SC. Not only does it feature fine art, but it also supports aspiring artists and brings the community together through art. The building, which was once a Baptist Church, is made of red stones and exudes an ancient vibe. You can tour 32 studios to see works by 40 different artists. Other exhibits rotate throughout the year, as well.
The culinary scene in Spartanburg is diverse, with global flavors and classic Southern fare meeting in upscale smokehouses and modern bistros. In addition to fine dining, you can eat at classic greasy mainstays, like the Beacon Drive-In, which has been serving Chili-Cheese-A-Plenty burgers since 1946. If you’re looking for something a little more casual, check out Sugar-n-Spice, which has been around for 60 years. And don’t forget Wade’s, a cafeteria-style meat-n-three serving the world’s best yeast rolls.
In addition to historic buildings and museums, Spartanburg also hosts several festivals. The annual Hub City Hog Fest, a barbecue festival that benefits Mobile Meals, features food trucks, 40 barbecue teams, and live music over two days. The Spartanburg Music Trail is another great way to discover local musicians. If you’re in the mood for a movie, check out the Beacon Drive-In, a local institution that’s been operating for 65 years.
If you’re a beer lover, you might want to stop by the RJ Rockers Brewing Company in Downtown Spartanburg, a microbrewery that features barrel-aged beers and other unique flavors. The company opened in 1997 and has been producing beer for over twenty years. The brewery also offers free tastings and has a capacity of 16,000 barrels. It also hosts live music and big-screen sports games, making it a fun place to watch the game and relax with a few beers.
Another historic neighborhood in Spartanburg is South Converse. This area features historic homes from the 1770s to the early 1800s. You can still see many original single-family homes in the area, as well as some modern amenities. Additionally, the homes are close to downtown Spartanburg, making them a good investment for a starter home. If you’re looking to purchase a new home in Spartanburg, consider South Converse.
Another cultural venue in Spartanburg is the West Main Artists Co-op, a community-oriented arts center with 32 working artists. You can see the work of these artists at rotating exhibitions, as well as educational programs and workshops. You can also catch a live performance in one of the galleries. The town’s historical architecture lends Spartanburg a distinctive look. Its re-purposed Baptist church provides a great setting for the WMAC’s art exhibitions.
If you’re interested in the history of art, the city also has some excellent museums to explore. The Andrew Wyeth Museum has the largest public collection of Andrew Wyeth watercolors in the world, while the Jasper Johns Museum focuses on contemporary art. Both museums are open Tuesday through Saturday, with Sunday and Monday closed. Admission is free for groups of ten or more. The museum is open to the public, and guided tours are available at no cost.