12 Things To Do in Spartanburg This Summer (That'll Make You Want to Stay Forever)

Thinking about moving to Spartanburg or exploring your own hometown? This summer is packed with reasons to fall in love with the Upstate—and plenty of neighborhoods you’ll want to call home. Whether you're new to the area or just ready for a change of scenery, these 12 summer activities will show you why calling this Spartanburg home is something truly special.

1. Catch Live Music at FR8yard

There’s no better way to enjoy a warm summer night than at FR8yard in downtown Spartanburg. As South Carolina’s first open-air biergarten, this laid-back, community-focused venue brings together live music, tasty bites, and cold drinks. All summer long, FR8yard hosts concerts, trivia, and outdoor movie nights—making it a go-to spot for fun and relaxation.

📍Neighborhood Spotlight: Love being in the heart of it all? Converse Heights and Hampton Heights offer beautiful, established homes full of character—just minutes from Downtown Spartanburg. These neighborhoods are perfect for buyers looking for historic charm and a strong sense of community.

2. Cool Off at Lake Bowen

Boating, swimming, fishing, or floating—Lake Bowen is a summertime favorite. It’s a favorite spot for families and friends to gather, picnic, paddleboard, and make the most of warm weekends—all just a quick drive from Spartanburg.

📍Real Estate Tip: If you’re dreaming of owning a home near the water, neighborhoods like Woodfin Ridge, Lakewinds, and Wilkins Pointe offer beautiful waterfront and lake-access homes. These communities combine scenic lake living with convenient access to Spartanburg’s amenities.

3. Explore the Rail Trail

The Mary Black Foundation Rail Trail is one of Spartanburg’s most beloved outdoor spots, offering a scenic path for walking, jogging, and biking. Lined with local favorites like Fretwell, Flock Shop, the Rail Trail Dog Park, the Subaru Bike Park, playgrounds, and more, it’s easy to see why this trail is a go-to destination for residents of all ages.

📍Neighborhood Spotlight: Neighborhoods like Andrews Farm, Hillbrook, and Fernwood offer beautiful homes just minutes from the Rail Trail. These established areas provide the perfect mix of quiet living and easy access to outdoor fun and community spots along the trail.

4. Take the Kids to Shipwreck Cove

Located in Duncan, Shipwreck Cove is a water park packed with slides, a lazy river, and pirate-themed fun. A hit with families all over Spartanburg County!
📍Real Estate Tip: Neighborhoods like River Falls, Stonegate, and Rainwater offer beautiful homes just minutes from Shipwreck Cove—perfect for families who want summer fun close to home.

5. Attend Music on Main

Nothing says summer in Spartanburg like Music on Main. This free Thursday night concert series brings live bands to downtown, filling Main Street with great music and friendly faces. It’s a weekly tradition where locals gather to relax, dance, and enjoy the energy of a summer evening.
📍Neighborhood Spotlight: Live just minutes from Main Street in neighborhoods like Converse Heights, Hampton Heights, and Hillbrook—perfect for enjoying downtown events all summer long.

6. Visit Hub City Farmers Market

Spend a Saturday morning at Hub City Farmers Market, Spartanburg’s go-to spot for fresh peaches, produce, flowers, and handmade goods. Located at Northside Harvest Park, it’s a great way to support local farmers and start your weekend with something fresh.
📍Real Estate Tip: Dreaming of space for a garden or backyard chickens? Let us show you homes with acreage in Campobello, Pauline, or rural parts of Spartanburg and Union County.

7. Hike to the Top of Glendale Shoals

This peaceful nature preserve features waterfalls, walking trails, and a historic mill bridge—perfect for a summer escape.
📍Neighborhood Spotlight: Consider nearby areas like East Spartanburg or Glendale if you want scenic surroundings and unique homes with character.

8. Cheer on the Spartanburgers

Spartanburg’s new Minor League Baseball team, the Spartanburgers, is hitting it out of the park at the brand-new Fifth Third Park—an elite, state-of-the-art stadium in the heart of downtown. With fun theme nights, great seats, and summer energy, catching a game is a must this season.
📍Real Estate Tip: Live near the excitement in neighborhoods like Hampton Heights, Converse Heights and Duncan Park all offering great homes just minutes from the stadium.

9. Sip Something Cold on a Rooftop

Spartanburg is on the rise—literally. Rooftop spots like Level 10 at the AC Hotel offer sweeping city views, craft cocktails, and an upscale atmosphere perfect for summer nights. Just down the street, RJ Rockers serves up local brews with live music and a relaxed environment that’s hard to beat.
📍Neighborhood Spotlight: Interested in owning a home close to Spartanburg’s food and brew scene? We can help you find homes just minutes away in some of our favorite historic neighborhoods.

10. Spend a Day at Croft State Park

Just minutes from town, Croft State Park offers 7,000 acres of scenic trails, lakes, and peaceful picnic spots. Whether you're hiking, biking, fishing, or horseback riding, it’s the perfect place to soak up summer in the great outdoors.

📍Real Estate Tip: Love being close to nature? Explore homes in Carolina Country Club, Woodwind, and Pauline—all conveniently located near Camp Croft with room to spread out and unwind.

11. Take a Day Trip to Strawberry Hill USA

Just outside Spartanburg in Chesnee, Strawberry Hill USA is a summer staple. From fresh strawberries and peaches to homemade ice cream and hearty breakfasts, it’s the perfect spot for a laid-back day with family or friends.
📍Neighborhood Spotlight: Love farm visits, wide-open spaces, and lake views? Explore communities around Lake Bowen and Lake Blalock—think Woodfin Ridge, Lake Bowen Estates, and Blalock Shores—where peaceful, waterfront living is only a short drive from Strawberry Hill and all the amenities of Spartanburg.

12. Cool Off with a Local Treat 

Beat the summer heat with something sweet from one of Spartanburg’s favorite dessert spots. Grab a cone at Two Scoops, Spill the Beans, or sip a refreshing smoothie from Health in Hand—because summer just tastes better here.

📍Real Estate Tip: Want to live near Spartanburg’s best local eats and treats? Explore homes in Downtown Spartanburg, Hillbrook, Hampton Heights and Converse Heights for walkable charm and flavorful convenience.

🏡 Love Where You Live—Or Make It Happen This Summer

Whether you're drawn to downtown charm, lake life, or quiet countryside, Spartanburg has a home for every lifestyle—and Brad Liles & Associates is here to help you find it.

 📲 Let’s talk about your goals and make this summer your season of new beginnings.