BMW Manufacturing Plant Tour — Spartanburg, South Carolina

Discover the BMW Spartanburg Factory Tour in South Carolina

The BMW Manufacturing Plant Tour in Spartanburg, SC, offers visitors a behind-the-scenes look at the largest BMW factory in the world. This cutting-edge plant produces BMW’s popular X models (X3, X4, X5, X6, and X7), serving markets around the globe.

On the guided tour, guests ride trams through assembly halls, body shops, and paint shops to see vehicles built from raw steel to finished cars. You’ll learn about robotics, automation, and precision craftsmanship as BMW’s signature luxury SUVs come together step by step. After the factory tour, visitors can explore the BMW Zentrum Museum, featuring historic vehicles, racing legends, concept cars, and exhibits about BMW’s innovation in design and engineering.

Why it’s special:
BMW’s Spartanburg plant isn’t just an auto factory — it’s a global hub of automotive excellence. Visitors see production in real time while also connecting with BMW’s history through the Zentrum Museum. For car enthusiasts, families, and school groups, it’s a rare opportunity to witness world-class engineering up close.

History/Story of BMW Spartanburg Plant

BMW announced its Spartanburg plant in 1992 as its first full manufacturing facility in the United States. Production began in 1994, and the factory has since grown into BMW’s largest plant worldwide, employing thousands of workers and producing more than 400,000 vehicles annually.

The Spartanburg facility specializes in BMW’s X series SUVs, many of which are exported internationally. The addition of the BMW Zentrum Museum further transformed the site into a visitor destination celebrating BMW’s global heritage and innovation.

What You’ll See & Do on the BMW Spartanburg Tour

• Ride a tram through the body shop, assembly hall, and paint shop.

• Watch BMW X models built in real time with robotics and skilled workers.

• Learn about BMW’s engineering standards and sustainability practices.

• Explore the BMW Zentrum Museum, featuring historic cars, racing vehicles, and design exhibits.

• Visit the BMW gift shop for apparel, accessories, and scale models.

Hands-On Elements: Interactive exhibits in the Zentrum Museum, opportunities for Q&A with guides.

Photo/Video Policy: Photography strictly prohibited inside factory production areas; permitted in museum and visitor center.

Souvenirs & Extras:

• BMW Zentrum gift shop with apparel, memorabilia, and car models

• Exclusive BMW factory souvenirs

Pricing of BMW Spartanburg Factory Tour

• Factory Tour: $15 Adults, $7 Students (ages 12–17)

• Children under 12: Not permitted on factory tours

• BMW Zentrum Museum: Free admission

Practical Info for Visiting BMW Spartanburg

Duration: ~90 minutes for factory tour; 30–60 minutes for Zentrum Museum
Format: Guided tram factory tour + self-guided museum visit
Schedule & Seasonality: Tours offered Mon–Fri; advance reservations required; closed weekends and major holidays
Audience: Car enthusiasts, families with teens, school and engineering groups
Accessibility: Visitor center and museum accessible; tram accommodates most mobility needs
Safety & Restrictions:

• Children under 12 not allowed on factory tour

• Closed-toe shoes required

• Bags, phones, and cameras not permitted on the factory floor

Languages: English; special arrangements for group interpreters may be available
Group & School Visits: Educational STEM-focused tours available by group booking

What to Bring/Wear: Closed-toe shoes, valid ID, comfortable clothing
Facilities: Visitor center, museum, restrooms, free parking
Closures & Downtime: Closed weekends and major holidays; tours paused during plant maintenance

Location & Booking

Getting There: Located off I-85 between Greenville and Spartanburg; free parking onsite
Booking: Reserve factory tours in advance online at BMW Spartanburg Plant
Cancellation & Refunds: Nonrefundable; contact visitor center for rescheduling
On-Site Extras: BMW Zentrum Museum, gift shop, event spaces

Nearby

• Greenville Downtown & Falls Park on the Reedy

• Spartanburg Regional History Museum

• BMW Performance Driving School (nearby)

FAQs About Visiting the BMW Spartanburg Tour

What cars are built at BMW Spartanburg?
The plant produces BMW X series models, including the X3, X4, X5, X6, and X7.

How long is the tour?
Factory tours last about 90 minutes; allow extra time for the Zentrum Museum.

Is the museum free?
Yes, the BMW Zentrum Museum is free to visit.

Can children attend the factory tour?
No, children under 12 are not permitted inside the factory.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, all factory tours require advance reservations, and spots fill quickly.

Can I take photos inside?
Photography is not allowed on the factory floor but is welcome in the museum.