Let’s be honest: Attendees don’t get excited about another generic ballroom in another major city.
That’s one reason smaller destinations like Greenville and Spartanburg are having a moment. These Upstate South Carolina communities offer the amenities planners need—modern hotels, flexible event space, convenient air access, and strong infrastructure—paired with something attendees increasingly want: authentic experiences that feel connected to the destination.
Located between Atlanta and Charlotte and served by Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport (GSP), the Upstate is easy to reach and even easier to enjoy. Greenville’s award-winning downtown consistently ranks among the nation’s best, with walkable streets, chef-driven restaurants, public art, and the iconic Liberty Bridge overlooking Falls Park on the Reedy. Just 30 minutes away, Spartanburg offers a vibrant mix of historic character, cultural attractions, and a growing food and beverage scene that surprises first-time visitors. For planners, that translates into more opportunities to create memorable agendas both inside and outside the meeting room.
Sports and entertainment venues add another layer of flexibility. Groups can catch a Greenville Drive baseball game at Fluor Field, widely known for its mini Green Monster and downtown atmosphere, enjoy a Greenville Triumph soccer match, or attend concerts and major touring events at Bon Secours Wellness Arena. In Spartanburg, the new Fifth Third Park, home of the Hub City Spartanburgers, has quickly become a gathering place for community events, hospitality experiences, and group outings.
Accommodations continue to expand alongside the region’s growth. In Greenville, the newly opened DoubleTree by Hilton Greenville Airport brings 146 guest rooms and more than 8,000 square feet of meeting and event space to the market, providing a fresh option for conferences, association meetings, training events, and social gatherings. Conveniently located near the airport and major business corridors, the hotel offers full-service amenities while keeping attendees close to everything the Upstate has to offer.
In Spartanburg, planners can take advantage of the Westgate Pointe hospitality collection, anchored by 1881 Event Hall and supported by more than 400 guest rooms across Hilton, Marriott, and IHG hotels. Conveniently located at the intersection of I-85 and I-26, the collection provides easy access for attendees traveling throughout the Southeast while placing groups near Spartanburg’s shopping, dining, and entertainment districts. Whether hosting a board retreat, regional conference, gala, or wedding weekend, planners benefit from a built-in combination of unique event space, trusted hotel brands, and flexible accommodations. It’s the kind of seamless experience that’s often difficult to find in larger destinations—and one more reason Spartanburg continues to attract meetings and events of all sizes.
While planners certainly appreciate the value, the real advantage of Greenville and Spartanburg goes beyond affordability—it’s the ability to create events that feel intentional. Here, attendees can network over a baseball game, explore vibrant downtown districts, discover locally owned restaurants, and experience a destination that feels genuine rather than interchangeable.
That’s the sweet spot meeting planners are looking for today: destinations that are large enough to deliver, yet small enough to leave a lasting impression.
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Samantha Reynolds Regional Director of Sales at Pinnacle Partnership 
With 16 years of hospitality experience, Samantha Reynolds is passionate about creating exceptional experiences. As Regional Director of Sales for Pinnacle Partnership, she helps planners bring meetings and events to life with ease.
Contact: 864-607-6782 | samantha.reynolds@pinnaclepartnership.com PinnaclePartnership.com |
