Overview
Spartanburg is called "The Crossroads of the New South" because of the two major interstates that connect near it - I-85 and I-26, and because of its convenient location. Within 2 to 3 hours of major cities such as Charlotte and Atlanta, it is also within close proximity to the Appalachian ski slopes and the beautiful coastal region of South Carolina. It is home to more than 60 companies from 12 different countries and the recently revitalized downtown area is busy with over a thousand employees from major international companies. A $2.5 million renovation in 2005 transformed the hub of the city, Morgan Square, into a pedestrian friendly area with many dining and nightlife gathering spots as well as a variety of shops. For the shopaholics, Spartanburg has one of South Carolina's largest malls, Westgate, which features over 150 stores and a food court. Adjacent to the mall is Westgate Crossing which has 5 major department stores, restaurants and a movie theater. Five colleges and a regional campus of the University of South Carolina make Spartanburg a true college town. The Wofford College campus is also the location of the NFL's Carolina Panther's summer training camp, which draws a large group of fans each summer. Travel south on I-85 and you'll find the only BMW museum in North America. The Zentrum is located next to the BMW manufacturing plant which is the United States home for assembling the Z3 Roadster and the X5 SAV. The original Z3 from the James Bond movie Golden Eye is on display along with its infamous license plate "007."