Spartanburg’s Best Off-The-Field Offerings with Kristyn Smith
Get off the field or the court and experience more of what Spartanburg County has to offer. From delicious food to peaceful scenery, use this guide to maximize your time in Spartanburg with OneSpartanburg, Inc. Director of Sports Tourism Management Kristyn Smith.
Of the tournaments you’ve hosted in Spartanburg, which are you most proud of, and why?
I think it is honestly pretty hard to choose. Our county saw $7.5 million in economic impact from hosting the USA Softball Junior Olympic Cup, so that is a memorable one.
Recently, we welcomed the Adidas 3 SSB Basketball girls’ and boys’ tournaments, with teams of future NCAA and possibly professional players. We also played host to NCAA coaches, national media and professional scouts during the Boys and Girls 3SSB, Gold Gauntlet, and Junior Exposure Circuits.
Anytime you can host a governing body and a global company like Adidas for an event like this, it definitely puts you on the map.
What off-site activity in Spartanburg do you most often recommend to groups/clients?
I’ve heard rave reviews about the test track at the BMW Performance Center, so that’s up there. For families or younger kids, Strawberry Hill USA has great activities, and their café is full of as much ice cream as you could want.
What’s your favorite way to spend your leisure time?
Swimming, and playing and coaching softball. I also live getting outside at Glendale Shoals and Croft State Park – they both offer a peaceful getaway while being close to Spartanburg. I’ve also been known to shop, and I love Vintage Warehouse and all of the boutiques downtown.
Tell us about a Spartanburg restaurant that’s a favorite of yours, or a hidden gem?
The Kennedy, and burgers and fries at Ike’s. I also recommend Burgers and Bakery to a lot of the sports teams we host in Spartanburg!
How do you stay connected with colleagues in your industry?
I primarily stay connected to colleagues on Facebook and other social media platforms. I’m also fortunate enough to entertain clients and prospects at events like Carolina Panthers Training Camp at Wofford College, and recently, the BMW Charity Pro-Am which came back to Spartanburg. And I love taking clients to see everything we’ve got going on downtown.
