Spartanburg has experienced a surge in tourism and has established itself as a regional economic leader at the intersection of Interstates 85 and 26. Its growing downtown area, diverse outdoor amenities, and strong employment metrics contribute to its rising prominence as a destination.

The area’s tourism sector has expanded significantly, particularly over the last decade. The destination now offers an impressive selection of restaurants, top-tier hotels, exciting attractions, a vibrant downtown, and excellent sports facilities. Sports tourism alone has played a major role in driving the economy, with 85 events across 20 sports generating over $32 million in direct spending in the market last year.

The parks and recreation sector has also contributed to the region’s economic growth. In 2024, the local parks and recreation department hosted 63 athletic tournaments, attracting over 4,000 teams and 100,000 visitors, resulting in an economic impact of more than $10 million. Plans for 2025 include hosting 81 tournaments, further boosting visitor spending, which in turn supports improvements to local parks and recreation facilities. This growth helps reduce the financial burden on local taxpayers while enhancing the community’s quality of life.

The future of tourism in Spartanburg and the Upstate region looks promising, with continued investment in infrastructure, downtown revitalization, and eco-friendly tourism initiatives. These efforts aim to attract even more visitors while preserving the region’s natural beauty.

Many travelers are drawn to the area for its events, festivals, growing food and arts scene, and abundant nature-based experiences. Additionally, Spartanburg and the Upstate have become key destinations for business professionals.

A major event on the horizon is the South Carolina Governor’s Conference on Travel and Tourism, set for February 10-12. As the largest annual gathering of the state’s tourism industry, this conference will bring together professionals from across South Carolina for discussions on emerging consumer trends, tourism marketing strategies, workforce development, and more.

With an increasing number of visitors discovering its charm, Spartanburg continues to thrive as a dynamic and welcoming destination.

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