12 Things You'd Never Expect To Find In Spartanburg (But You Can Find In The Underground Guide To Spartanburg)

You could hike into the Andes of Peru, or you could drive to Inman and visit the North Woods Farm Fiber and Yarn Shop. Knit, needle, and hook your way to happiness!

Thanks to the nearby BMW plant. the German scene is thriving in the Upstate. Hankering for some fine Deutsche Schokolade? Find these sweet imported treats at spots like the Deli Korner or one of the two European Markets in town.

Many cities can boast of omnipresent Starbucks, but Spartanburg ups the ante with a pair of dueling Krispy Kremes. The original, built in 1969, stands as homage to some great vintage neon while the new facility across the street will happily serve you a dozen original glazed.

Spartanburg County has a Buddhist presence as vibrant as it surprising. Near Wellford, visit Wat Sao Sokh San, or see the larger-than-life Buddha statue at Wat Preah Ang Thom near Boiling Springs.

Carolina Foothills Resorts offers everything you could expect in a resort--hot tub, saltwater pool, cabins, a billiards table--with one notable omission. Clothes! Yes, the Upstate has its very own nudist resort, but be forewarned, it's Member's Only. Join the fun and who knows - you could be the next Mr. Nudist.

While the Carolinas abound in lakes, we're left high and dry when it comes to the ocean, but that doesn't mean we can't scuba! The Scuba Shop offers certification and chartered trips to Honduras, Florida, or the Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta.

It's one thing to host an annual Pride March and Festival; it's another thing to host one that brings in over 3,000 participants in the heart of the often-conservative South. Spartanburg's Upstate Pride happens every September.

It's not just for dip and sandwiches anymore. Get some fried pimento cheese fritters at Cribb's Kitchen, try an Upstate Omelet (with pimento cheese and fried green tomatoes) at The Farmer's Table, and don't forget the cheeseburgers - try a Terrier Burger at Ike's or, if you dare, the Redneck at the Nu-Way.

Tank is just one of the many celebrity animals at Hollywild Animal Park. Take an open-air bus ride through 70 acres of deer, emu, cattle and zebras, or stop by during the holidays for their spectacular light display.

Sweet Co. in nearby Inman has everything to satisfy your Slavic cravings, as well as a selection of vintage Soviet souvenirs. Check out their collections of local produce and honey as well as a wide variety of international treats!

One thing we have in abundance in the Upstate is nature, and Spartanburg is packed with trails, creeks, and nature preserves for the explorer in you. Need some gear? Go by the Local Hiker and then hit the trail!

All of these surprises and more can be found in The Underground Guide to Spartanburg, Vol. 2, published by Hub City Press in Spartanburg. Buy your copy today and have an adventure!