Commercial Truck Insurance in Spartanburg, SC

SPARTANBURG, S.C. (WSPA) — The Spartanburg Regional History Museum moved out of the Chapman Cultural Center at the end of 2022, after forming a partnership with the Spartanburg County Public Libraries.

They said working with the library system helps them reach a wider audience, and moving out of the cultural center allowed for Kids Upstate to move in.

“They [History Museum] could take it out beyond the doors of what we had at the Chapman Cultural Center and all across the county and be able to share some of those things a little more widely,” said David Wood, president of the Spartanburg County Historical Association. “More battles were fought in South Carolina during the revolutionary war than any other colonies and I think people don’t really know that so we’re excited about that and to start sharing a lot of that history.”

For more than 20 years Kids Upstate said families in Spartanburg and Cherokee counties have relied on them to take care of their children after school, and also educate them through art, fitness and learning programs. The organization tells us moving into the Chapman Cultural Center provides them with room to grow in those areas.

“This is going to let us do things that we never thought possible before, we’re already planning new programs to test with our people, our parents, our kids and other things we can do with kids starting next fall out of this facility,” said Greg Tolbert, president of Kids Upstate.

With how much time some kids spend with the organization, Tolbert hopes expanding their programs will give kids more opportunities in areas they are interested in.

“You’ll hear kids say this is a second home, you’ll hear kids say these people love me,” said Tolbert. “This is essentially free daycare, parents contribute generally about $10 a week if they can.”

Kids Upstate is actively looking to hire high school seniors who would like to become teachers. Click here for more.

Kids Upstate is not taking up the entire space that the history museum occupied. There is also now a meeting and event space called the Bell Room where a portion of the museum used to be.

SPARTANBURG — Morgan Square’s proposed redesign aims to accentuate the city’s evolving downtown business district while making the space more attractive for programs and events.

As the city continues to grow with new housing, business and office space, the square will continue to be a popular destination. With the redesign expected for final review this spring by City Council, the square’s redesign could be completed by early 2025.

“For the most part, I like everything about the redesign,” Spartanburg Mayor Jerome Rice said. “We are waiting to see the final draft and get ready for it. People are looking for all this to finish up. The work will likely interrupt traffic and business flow. We will work through it to make sure businesses are still accessible to everyone.”

The project would be conducted in phases, city spokesman Christopher George said.

The first phase would include areas along West Main Street from North Church Street to Magnolia Street. The projected cost to complete the first phase is $15 million.

For the past 21 years, Delaney’s Irish Pub on West Main Street near the square has been a popular place to dine and enjoy live music.

Owner Brian Greene is hopeful the square’s redesign will draw more people downtown.

The outdoor dining area on the street closed to vehicle traffic since May 2020 will be moved to the sidewalk. Greene said he expects the outdoor dining area to be smaller with fewer tables. While he supports some of the redesign’s features, he would rather see the square maintain a larger green space for outdoor events.

“I don’t see a great spot out there for a band to play,” Greene said about the proposed redesign. “There is a natural stage there now, but it looks like that is going to be taken out.”

Greene also questioned the plan for public restrooms and how they might be staffed by the city. He expressed concern that restrooms could potentially be a gathering spot for the homeless if left unattended.

It’s been nearly 20 years since the last redesign was completed. City Councilman Jamie Fulmer said change is needed.

“We want to see the square active and vibrant,” Fulmer said. “I think we would miss an opportunity if we didn’t try and create a city center that would be more engaging and more complementary to all the development around it.”

Three redesign options were presented to the public in April. The latest redesign presented to the city in December combines some elements from all three options. Preparation has already started at the site.

“We have some preliminary sitework that will begin taking place on the square over the coming weeks,” George said. “That includes some basic surveying and ground-penetrating radar to assess conditions under the surface.”

The city is also working with New York-based Bierdman Redevelopment Ventures to develop a programming plan for the square to attract more visitors with new events and activities.

OneSpartanburg CEO and President Allen Smith said the square’s redesign should maximize space and work to benefit small businesses while creating a more welcoming place for community events.

“Whatever we do in the city of Spartanburg, we have to think about economic impact,” Smith said. “Small businesses rise and fall on activities at Morgan Square. Six years ago, we were having conversations that Morgan Square wasn’t what it could be for driving pedestrian traffic.”

Spartanburg City Councilwoman Erica Brown said she doesn’t want to see the clock tower moved. The plan calls for moving the clock tower near West Main and South Spring streets in the plan’s second phase.

“The clock tower had sentimental value to folks,” Brown said. “I am not sold on moving the clock tower.”

The redesign project’s first phase would be funded by the city’s hospitality tax revenue initially, with private funding used to complete additional phases.

Spartanburg, S.C. The BMW Charity Pro-Am presented by TD SYNNEX tournament officials are pleased to announce that American musician and singer-songwriter, Phillip Phillips, will headline this year's downtown Spartanburg Concert. Presented by The Johnson Group, the concert will take place on Thursday, June 6th, at Morgan Square with free admission to the public. The evening's festivities will kick off at 5:00 pm, culminating in Phillip Phillips' performance later in the evening.

"We are excited to have Phillip Phillips headlining this year's Spartanburg Concert," said Bob Stegner, President of South Carolina Charities, Inc., the non-profit foundation of the BMW Charity Pro-Am presented by TD SYNNEX. "This concert is not only a highlight of the tournament week but also a fantastic way to give back to the Spartanburg community. We are grateful to The Johnson Group and the City of Spartanburg for their continued partnership and contribution to making this event possible."

Phillip Phillips, the American Idol winner known for his soulful music and engaging performances, will provide an evening of musical excellence for concertgoers in Spartanburg. Renowned for his chart-topping hits like "Home," "Gone, Gone, Gone," and "Raging Fire," Phillips has toured with artists such as John Mayer and Gavin DeGraw, as well as performed alongside Bruce Springsteen.

Geordy Johnson, CEO of The Johnson Group, also expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, "We are thrilled to partner with the BMW Charity Pro-Am and sponsor the Phillip Phillips concert. This event is a wonderful opportunity to amplify downtown Spartanburg and bring the community together in a fun and meaningful way while supporting South Carolina Charities.”

This year marks the 3rd year of the downtown Spartanburg concert series, following successful performances in previous years by Diamond Rio and Marshall Tucker Band. Opening acts for the Phillip Phillips concert will include Spartanburg’s own Back 9 Band, James Radford Band, and Gritty Flyright. iHeartMedia Greenville will be the official radio partner for this event; make sure to tune in to 102.5 The Lake for the chance to win VIP tickets to the tournament and the Thursday night concert. For those seeking a VIP experience, tickets which include food, beverage and access to Delaney’s Irish Pub during the concert, can be purchased through the tournament's website, complementing the free concert for all attendees.

Additionally, the BMW Charity Pro-Am is offering a "Stay and Play" package to help keep the party going. This package includes two Clubhouse credentials to the tournament, two VIP Tickets to the concert, and a one-night stay at the AC Hotel Spartanburg for Thursday night, enhancing your experience with a touch of luxury and hospitality.

The BMW Charity Pro-Am is scheduled to take place at Thornblade Club and The Carolina Country Club from June 6th to June 9th. After attending the tournament at the Carolina Country Club on Thursday, plan to continue the fun at the special concert event that evening. For additional details regarding the tournament, sponsorship opportunities, exclusive events, and supported charitable causes, please visit www.bmwcharitygolf.com.

ABOUT THE BMW CHARITY PRO-AM PRESENTED BY TD SYNNEX

South Carolina Charities, Inc. (SCCI), the non-profit foundation of the BMW Charity Pro-Am presented by TD SYNNEX, was created in order to showcase the beauty of Upstate South Carolina and hospitality of its citizens to the world; to create an event that brings the upstate a fun and entertaining week centered around professional athletes and world-renowned celebrities; and raise money and awareness for South Carolina charities. Since 2001, the tournament has distributed more than $15 million to numerous Upstate SC non-profit organizations, part of the PGA TOUR’s $3 billion plus raised for charity.

ABOUT THE JOHNSON GROUP

The Johnson Group, headquartered in Spartanburg, South Carolina, is a family of diverse companies fueled by an entrepreneurial spirit, united in shared values and committed to the success of its team members, partners and communities. From commercial real estate to hospitality to auto finance, The Johnson Group’s foundation for business is the same: Building enduring relationships of trust and accountability with partners, and relentlessly pursuing profitable results. For more information, visit www.TheJohnsonGroup.com.

SPARTANBURG — A popular Latin buffet on the east side of Spartanburg is adding Mexican cuisine to its portfolio.

El Chinchorro Boricua is known for its buffet featuring Puerto Rican, Dominican and Cuban food.

But on March 23, it’s opening a new Mexican buffet next door with offerings including seafood, chicken mole, handmade tortillas, a plethora of taco fillings and a salsa bar. They’ll also have several different soups including menudo.

The Mexican buffet will go in the space that used to be the restaurant's bar area.

Owner Rosendo Duran told The Post and Courier that diners would have at least 25 different meal options and would be able to build their own tacos.

“It’s going to be 100 percent authentic Mexican food,” said Duran, noting the chef is from Mexico. “We’re taking a chance. For a lot of people it’s going to be new to them. What they sell here as Mexican food is not truly Mexican food. What they sell here is more Tex-Mex and California style.”

After the weekend launch, the Mexican buffet will be open Thursday through Sunday. On Friday and Saturday, it will be open from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. and on Thursday and Sunday, it will be open from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.

The charge for adults will be $16.99 and for kids under 10 years old, $10.99.

Duran is originally from Mexico but moved to Texas when he was 13 before eventually heading to Puerto Rico.

He and his wife moved to Spartanburg from Orlando, Florida several years ago and opened El Chinchorro Boricua in 2021 to serve the area’s large Puerto Rican population.

Now he’s hoping folks enjoy the Mexican buffet as well.

“We know you can find Mexican restaurants on every corner, but we’re focusing on authentic food,” Duran said. “We’ve been working really hard and I see on social media, the response is huge. I think we’re gonna have a big crowd on Saturday and Sunday, so we’re kind of nervous.”

Are you looking for free things to do in Spartanburg, SC? Do you have an idea in your head that doing something fun with your kids in Spartanburg is going to cost money (and probably a lot of it)? We are setting the record correct today once and for all: Spartanburg has tons of fun free things to do and even more that are really cheap.

And here’s where you can find a giant list of things to do in Spartanburg, SC!

Free Places to Go in Downtown Spartanburg

Spartanburg Library – Ask your average person why you would visit the library and they will say to “check out books”. The Spartanburg Library offers much more than just books though. On their schedule you can find everything from puppet shows, to LEGO programs, to even exercise classes. The Spartanburg Headquarters Library even has a playground right outside the children’s area.

Hub City Railroad Museum – This free train museum downtown allows children to sit in a caboose, watch trains from a special deck, and use a telegraph.

Sparkle City Mini Putt – You can pick up your putters and ball from several local businesses and play mini-golf for free in this Spartanburg themed mini putt. Now with the addition of FR8 Yard, you can also grab dinner.

Spartanburg Art Museum – Spark your child’s creativity by viewing some well curated art. SAM has great programs for kids, little art goers are always welcome. Check out their Learning Lounge for some interactive art activities.

The Johnson Collection – A private art collection shared with the public by esteemed philanthropists Susan and George Johnson. A wonderful place to cultivate your little one’s eye for art and expanding their imagination. This museum is the feather to Spartanburg’s art-filled cap.

Easy Free Walking Trails

The Rail Trail – This paved trail near the Spartanburg YMCA is perfect for biking, scooters, and walking. The trail is also located beside the free Hot Spot Skate Park and Play 60 Park with a ninja warrior style obstacle course.

Cottonwood Trail Preserve – These easy trails will take you over boardwalks, through forests, and into open picnic areas.

Tyger River Nature Park & Tyger-10 Nature Park – These two parks offer scenic easy hiking along the Tyger River. It’s common to see families wading and picnicking on the riverside.

Glendale Shoals Preserves – This park is a favorite of photographers and offers a pleasant place to walk.

Hatcher Garden & Woodland Preserve – This garden is beautiful in all seasons and easy to walk or picnic in.

Drayton Mills Trail & Beaumont Mill Village Pathway– This paved trail can be accessed at a couple of points, the easiest is probably the large parking lot across from Drayton Mills. Or, start at the small parking lot for the Beaumont Mill Village Pathway beside Adam’s Park on East Boundary Drive. This is where the Story Walk trail starts if you have kids who would enjoy that.

You could walk the story trail, take a left onto the Drayton Mill Trail after you cross the bridge over the river, head up to Drayton Mill for a coffee or a treat, and then head back up the trail to your car. This trail is stroller-friendly, but there’s a big hill and you will have to cross Drayton Road to get to the mill for that coffee! You may even be lucky enough to watch a train crossing the tall bridge over the river!

Amazing Playgrounds Near Spartanburg

Cleveland Park – The playground at this park in downtown Spartanburg has bright colors and imaginative structures that encourage pretend play. The park also offers a walking trail that bends around a pretty pond with a gazebo. One disadvantage of this park is the playground is not fenced and it’s difficult to watch your child if they are quickly moving from place to place.

Tyger River Park – The newly renovated massive park in Duncan contains perhaps one of the most impressive play areas in the Upstate. The playground has many surprises including a small cave, climbing structures, and a sandbox. During the summer, a splash pad is also open.

Stoneledge Park – Right beside Shipwreck Cove in Duncan, Stoneledge Park is tucked away. This large playground is unique in that it has a rubber turf floor and decent shade. There are also two large picnic shelters that are relatively cheap to rent for parties.

Happy Hollow Park – This park is small but nestled in the scenic Converse Heights area. The playground is fenced in and offers plenty of shade. There is a small walking trail and green space as well.

Lake Bowen Park – This playground in Inman has a lake as the backdrop making it a scenic spot for picnics and evening play times.

McMillan Park – This large playground in Boiling Springs is unique in that the entire play area, including small kid playground, big kid playground, picnic shelters and swings, is entirely fenced-in making it a very easy place to keep track of your kids.

The Airport Park – This playground at the Spartanburg Downtown Airport features an aviation playground plus a splash pad. Of course, the big attraction is watching the planes land and fly while you play.

Conestee Park & Lake Conestee Nature Preserve – While these two parks are located in Greenville, they are certainly worth the drive. We recommend entering in the Conestee Park main entrance where you will find a large playground, green space, and picnic shelters. A short walk from the playground, you will find a main trail head that leads into Lake Conestee Nature Preserve where you will find several simple trail loops that include educational stops, boardwalks, and observation decks. Lake Conestee offers a wide variety of wildlife to observe as well.

Runway Park – It’s easy to make a day trip to this playground in Greenville because not only does it offer a fun place to play while watching planes, but you can also grab lunch at Runway Cafe and eat it in the park.

Herdklotz Park – This playground in Taylors is one of the largest in the area and has a lot of shade.

Simpsonville City Park – This park has new play equipment which includes a zip-line. PLEASE NOTE: As of June 2023, this park is closed for construction. It is expected to open in fall 2024

Inexpensive Things to Do in Spartanburg

Spartanburg Science Center – Spartanburg Science Center has fun exhibits and summer camps. They also have a very cute hedgehog (plus other animals). Admission is just $5 and kids under 5 are free.

The Children’s Museum of the Upstate – The Children’s Museum of the Upstate-Spartanburg is designed for children aged 5 and under. Admission is just $8 (SC adult and child) and a membership for $120+ includes both museums allowing you to also enjoy the larger museum in Greenville.

Croft State Park – This wonderful state park includes boating, fishing, and hiking. Admission is only $3/adults.

Free or Inexpensive Day Trips Near Spartanburg

Reedy Creek Nature Center & Preserves (Charlotte) – You won’t believe it but this nature center is completely free. Amenities include two large playgrounds (one that is a treehouse theme and covered with shade), an indoor nature center with a play space, and hiking.

Roper Mountain Science Center (Greenville) – Once you figure out how much there is to do at Roper Mountain Science Center, you will want a family membership. Events include several 2nd Saturday events, planetarium shows, and the Butterfly Adventure where you can see butterflies up close. In addition, the grounds are open on non-event day open hours and the grounds include a walking trail, imaginative play areas, and the gardens.

Upcountry History Museum (Greenville) – Throughout the year, Upcountry History Museum offers fun events like Toddler Times and Family Night. In the summer, they traditionally feature a large children’s exhibit. It’s all contained in one room making it an easy place for the kids to play without the parents having to worry about them getting out of sight.

Paris Mountain State Park (Greenville) – Paris Mountain State Park is a pretty place to hike and spend the day. During the summer season, they open the swim area on Lake Placid. Attend a free ranger-led hike or lecture at Paris Mountain’s 4th Saturday Events. In the fall, their Music in the Woods lets your family enjoy live music in the outdoor amphitheater. Events are free with regular park admission of $6 per adult and $3.50 per children 6-15 years old (5 and under are free).

Jocassee Gorges (Upper SC) – The Jocassee Gorges have been named one of the 50 World’s Last Great Places by National Geographic. This large wilderness area includes the beautiful Lake Jocassee and Devils Fork State Park.

Clemson University’s Bob Campbell Geology Museum (Clemson SC) – Located inside Clemson’s botanical garden. A fantastic little museum for your rock collector. Check out the glow-in-the-dark room of minerals for a nice surprise. Free. Check their website for visiting hours.

What are your favorite free things to do in Spartanburg?