Spartanburg Hosts Governor’s Conference on Tourism

News Summary

Spartanburg recently showcased its prominence in the tourism industry as it hosted the Governor’s Conference on Tourism and Travel from February 10-12, 2025. The event attracted over 350 professionals, highlighting Spartanburg’s growth potential and beautiful heritage. With recent economic investments and a thriving tourism landscape, the city is positioned as a significant player in South Carolina’s economy, bolstered by community collaboration and exciting upcoming projects.

Spartanburg Shines at Governor’s Conference on Tourism

Spartanburg is in the spotlight as the city recently hosted the annual Governor’s Conference on Tourism and Travel from February 10-12, 2025. The event proved to be a fantastic gathering, with over 350 tourism professionals attending, underscoring just how important Spartanburg is to South Carolina’s vibrant tourism scene.

A City on the Rise

Spartanburg is not just any city; it has been recognized as the third best city on the Southern Living list of “The South’s Best Cities On The Rise 2024.” This acknowledgment highlights not only the city’s beautiful heritage but also its exciting growth potential.

The beloved Governor of South Carolina praised the leadership and ongoing developments in Spartanburg, emphasizing its appeal as a beautiful place that is continually evolving and improving. It’s easy to see why Spartanburg is capturing the attention of so many with its unique charm and friendly atmosphere.

A Hub of Economic Activity

According to the state’s Department of Parks, Recreation, and Tourism, Spartanburg plays a crucial role in South Carolina’s economy. The area saw approximately $1 billion in pledged investment in 2024, a clear sign that businesses are eager to set up shop and grow their operations in the area. The community also hosted 85 sports events last year, bringing in a whopping $32 million in direct spending.

One of the standout projects making waves in the area is a $425 million mixed-use minor league ballpark. This state-of-the-art facility not only promises thrilling games but also aims to attract visitors and families who are eager to experience all that Spartanburg has to offer.

The Thriving Tourism Landscape

Tourism isn’t just a side gig in South Carolina; it’s a full-blown industry generating $29 billion annually and contributing $1.8 billion in state and local taxes. Spartanburg, with its unique attractions and growing infrastructure, is poised to capture a significant piece of that pie.

The local sports scene is bolstered by the presence of the Hub City Spartanburgers minor league baseball team, a key player in drawing crowds and enhancing the city’s reputation for sports tourism. Spartanburg is also looking to attract more collegiate events, including volleyball championships and cross-country regionals, to keep visitors coming back for more.

Community and Collaboration

Collaboration seems to be the name of the game in Spartanburg. OneSpartanburg, Inc. is actively working to elevate the area’s reputation as a dynamic community full of events and activities. The conference itself was also an educational experience for attendees, focusing on current trends, technology’s role in travel, and the importance of building personal connections within the tourism industry.

The Future Looks Bright

Exciting developments are also underway, such as the much-anticipated Saluda Grade Rail Trail. This 31-mile corridor will connect several local towns, promoting outdoor recreation and integrating with Spartanburg’s existing trail systems. Funded partially by a $450,000 grant, this project demonstrates robust local support for enhancing outdoor initiatives and improving overall quality of life.

As mayors from the neighboring towns came together to discuss collaborative tourism strategies, the sense of community and partnership stood out as strong assets for Spartanburg’s future.

Wrapping It Up

With all the buzz from the conference and the evident growth across various sectors, Spartanburg is undoubtedly a city on the move. As it continues to roll out new attractions and expand its tourism offerings, the excitement surrounding Spartanburg’s vibrant future promises to keep the spotlight shining bright on this fantastic city.

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Additional Resources

• Upstate Business Journal: South Carolina Tourism Industry
• WSPA: Governor McMaster Hosts Tourism Conference
• Post and Courier: SC Governor Tourism Conference
• Wikipedia: Tourism in South Carolina
• Fox Carolina: Travis Tritt in Spartanburg 2025
• Goupstate: Saluda Grade Rail Trail and Tourism Growth