33 Best & Fun Things to Do in Fayetteville (NC)

Fayetteville, North Carolina is a city of rich history, It is a city with lots of opportunities for a fun time, maximally providing visitors and locals with lots of amazing attractions and activities.

Fayetteville is particularly proud of its military history, this history can be clearly understood with its close proximity to Fort Bragg.

This city also has several museums and monuments that share the stories of the city’s military background, it is therefore not surprising why Fayetteville is known as “America’s Most Pro-Military Town” and a Military sanctuary community.

Things to do in Fayetteville NC are not limited to its military attractions, you will also find other exciting attractions which will definitely be of interest to you, these include farms, parks, museums, restaurants, malls, and lots more.

To help plan your trip, let’s explore the best & fun things to do in Fayetteville, North Carolina.

Things to Do in Fayetteville, NC

1. Airborne and Special Operations Museum

A visit to the Airborne and Special Operations Museum should be top on your list of best things to do in Fayetteville.

This museum aims to preserve the memory of the sacrifices made by those who served as airborne troops and special operations personnel.

Visiting this Museum, you will meet lots of historical artifacts from different periods with an array of dioramas. There are also visual and audio exhibits to show the sacrifice made by these men and women.

You will also find a motion simulator in the museum which gives the guest the feeling of what it is like to be an American Airborne soldier.

This Airborne and Special Operations Museum is open from Tuesday to Saturday of every week from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. On Sundays, the museum is open from noon till 5:00 pm.

Address: 1000 Bragg Blvd, Fayetteville, NC 28301.

2. The North Carolina Veterans Park

The North Carolina Veterans Park is the first park in North Carolina established to preserve the memories of deceased veterans and also to honor veterans who are still alive.

Veterans honored by the park include those who served in the Coast Guard, the Air Force, Navy, Marines, Army, and other Armed Service branch.

You will find the park just adjacent to the Airborne and Operations Museum.

Take to notice a chandelier measuring about 3,500 feet which was made out of 33,500 service member identification tags (or dog tags).

The North Carolina Veterans Park is perfectly situated in Fayetteville, no other city is worth being the base for this park than the “First Sanctuary Community for the Military”.

Address: 300 Bragg Blvd, Fayetteville, NC 28301.

3. Market House

Another place to visit in this North Carolina’s historic downtown district is the Market House.

This is a place that should not be missed during your visit as it is considered to be the focal point of Fayetteville.

The Market House is a revered house because it is constructed on the very spot where the Old State House once stood. This was where the state’s delegates ratified the United States Constitution.

However, it was burnt down during the Great Fire in 1831.

Today, Market House is recognized as one of the fifty National Landmarks within the state of North Carolina. It was recognized as a landmark in the year 1973 and it is the only Historical landmark that can be found in Cumberland County.

You will find a museum on the Upper Level of the Market House, do take to exploring this museum, makes one of the fun things to do in Fayetteville.

The Market House is opened 24hrs, every day of the week, you are welcomed for a fun time here.

Address: Fayetteville, NC 28301.

4. Segra Stadium

The Segra Stadium makes one of the best places to visit in Fayetteville.

This stadium is home to the minor league Fayetteville Woodpeckers baseball team which features in the Carolina League.

This is quite a large stadium, having the capacity to comfortably accommodate about 5,290 sitting guests.

In addition to being used as a stadium for baseball, the Segra stadium is also used for special events hosted by the city throughout the year.

Spots to check out during your visit includes the Kids Zone which is properly equipped for entertaining young children during a game, there is also the Riff Grill and the Bleacher Bar in the stadium which are nice spots to have a relaxed time sipping your favorite drink

Address: 460 Hay St, Fayetteville, NC 28301.

5. Fascinate-U Children’s Museum

Fayetteville is a city with the interest of kids at heart. This is shown in its children museum, the Fascinate-U Children’s Museum.

This Museum was established in the year 1994 as a non-profit organization, it makes one of the best things to do in Fayetteville, NC with kids.

It is an interactive place where kids are encouraged to explore the world around them through creative and fun role-playing, interaction, and gaming.

Fascinate-U Children’s Museum features static displays, classroom space, and a variety of interactive and safe exhibits.

There are also the hands-on exhibits which are designed to represent a miniature city.

Your kids can practice dentistry, be on television, run a store, dress up as soldiers or take on any other role here.

If you plan to come along with your kids it Fayetteville, do no deprive them of this fun experience.

Fascinate-U Children’s Museum is open every day of the week except Mondays and other major holidays.

Address: 116 Green St, Fayetteville, NC 28301.

6. Cape Fear River Trail

One of the trails to explore in Fayetteville for outdoor enthusiasts is the Cape Fear River Trail. This trail consists of a paved path which is about ten feet wide.

Covering more than 5 miles, the Cape Fear River Trail is an ideal path for cycling, walking, jogging, or biking.

As you move along this trail, you will find yourself in the presence of beautiful flowers, majestic trees, and wildlife such as deers and turtles.

You will also get to meet the stunning view of the Cape Fear River. Also, get to find a 700-foot boardwalk that takes you through wooden bridges and lush wetlands.

Photography enthusiast will have an amazing time here as the environment is quite picturesque

Address: Fayetteville NC, 28301

7. Cape Fear Botanical Garden

The Cape Fear Botanical Garden sits in a spectacular seventy seven-acre land space, this garden also boast of an amazing view over the Cross Creek River and the Cape Fear River.

Visiting here, you will notice several smaller gardens with different themes and exhibits which are both quite educational and interesting.

Do not miss a view of the water-wise garden display.

Cape Fear Botanical Garden features native plants of North Carolina, abundant colorful wildflowers, and oak trees which are centuries-old.

You will also find in the garden a restored farmhouse that shows period farming tools and live demonstrations.

Get to learn how to harvest crops like tobacco and cotton as well as other crops native to the Southern part of the United States.

Cape Fear Botanical Garden makes one of the top things to do in Fayetteville for nature lovers.

It is opened to visitors all through the week, Monday to Saturday from 9am whereas Sunday at noon, closing time is 5pm except Thursday which has closing time to be 7pm.

Address: 536 N. Eastern Blvd, Fayetteville, NC 28301.

8. 1897 Poe House

The 1897 Poe House situated in Fayetteville was built by the great Poet, Edgar Allan Poe in the year 1897.

Edgar Allan Poe is famous for writing the poem titled “The Raven”.

When Edgar lived here with his wife Josephine, he was a prominent businessman.

You are free to visit this house from Tuesday through Friday, to get a guide tours through this house. The schedule for the tours is 11:00 am, 1:00 pm, and 3 pm.

On Saturdays, tours are offered every hour starting from 10:00 a.m. to 4 pm. While on Sundays, tours are offered hourly from 1:00 pm.

It will amaze you how the 1897 Poe House still looks exactly the way it did during the early 20th century. You will also find memorabilia and period antiques in the house.

This makes what to do in Fayetteville for lovers of poet who will love to peek into the life of Edger.

Address: 206 Bradford Ave, Fayetteville, NC.

9. Grillis Hill Farm

One of the best things to do in Fayetteville is a visit to the Gillis Hill Farm. This is a family-operated and owned farm situated in Fayetteville, North Carolina.

Gillis Hill Farm dates back more than eight generations, and have since been taken to raises cattle with their pastures and poultry. They also grow hays, wheat, corn, and soybean.

The farm has plenty of space for animals to roam and feed.

Apart from raising animals and farming, Gillis Hill Farm also offers school tours, they also have an on-site ice cream shop for visitors to indulge in some great taste.

The farm is open to visitors from April to October. To get a free walking tour of the farm, you just have to purchase an ice cream from the ice cream shop.

This makes one of the free things to do in Fayetteville NC, do consider adding to your list of Fayetteville NC attractions to visit.

Address: 2701 Gillis Hill Rd, Fayetteville, NC 28306.

10. Lake Rim Park

One of the popular parks in Fayetteville is the Lake Rim Park. This park is a great place to engage in outdoor recreation activities or relax.

This park is one of Fayetteville NC attractions to add to your checklist.

Some of the fun activities in this park include playing a game of soccer, going on a picnic with family and friends, or taking a hike on the 1-mile nature trail to the Bones Creek. Or you can also explore the wetlands too!

Note that the facilities in the park honor the first-come, first-served service rule, you can also make reservations on the park’s website.

If you have a pet, you are allowed to bring it along provided you keep them under control and they stay on leash.

Address: 2214 Tar Kiln Dr, Fayetteville, NC 28304.

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11. Cumberland County Crown Complex.

Talking of a HubSpot for entertainment, Cumberland County Crown Complex is worth a visit during your stay in Fayetteville.

Cumberland County Crown Complex is a place where lots of events are held in the city all through the year.

The newest facility added to the center is the Crown Coliseum which has become a major Fayetteville attraction has a seating capacity of 11,000.

Events held here cut across live concerts, plays, and many others.

Other teams and institutions which made this complex their home include the Fayetteville Marksmen, Fayettevill’s Southern Professional Hockey League Team, the Arena Indoor, and the Cape Fear Heroes.

Address: 1960 Coliseum Dr, Fayetteville, NC 28306

12. Cross Creek Mall

One of the most famous shopping malls in the city is the Cross Creek Mall. This mall is one of the best places to shop in Fayetteville, NC.

Cross Creek Mall is situated off the 401 Bypass, you will find it in between the Morganton Road and All-American Freeway.

Some of the large stores Cross Creek Mall features include the Belk, JCPenny, and Macy’s. You will also find a lot of other specialty shops among which you will find the Vans, H&M, White House Black Market, Chico’s, and Build-A-Bear Workshop.

Cross Creek Mall also has a lot of dining options. Take yourself on a treat at Starbucks, Red Robin, Chili’s, Zoe’s Kitchen, Sarku, or Japan Panda Express.

Do take out a day to explore this mall, also purchase items to save the memory of a visit to Fayetteville.

Address: 419 Cross Creek Mall, Fayetteville, NC 28303.

13. Museum of Cape Fear Historical Complex

Amongst awesome places in Fayetteville is the Museum of Cape Fear Historical Complex.

Museum of Cape Fear Historical Complex is located in the downtown area of Fayetteville.

This museum displays more than four hundred years of local history along with stories of patriots and their patriotism.

As you move through the museum, you will get to see several historical exhibits kept on two floors, these include objects obtained from events that are related to patriotism.

Get to meet exhibits which cut across pottery, toys, general store, textiles, agriculture implements, exploration, and settlement of early Europeans.

You will also meet exhibits of those assembled from the Antebellum years, the Civil War, Scottish Immigration, and Native Americans.

During your exploration, you will get to learn a lot about the past and how its events are influencing events of the present.

Address: 801 Arsenal Ave, Fayetteville, NC 28305.

14. Huske Hardware House Restaurant and Brewery

Situated in the downtown area of Fayetteville, Huske Hardware House Restaurant and Brewery is the oldest BrewPub in the city.

What makes this restaurant/brewery unique is the passion and the scientific principles which it applies to its craft brewery. These inputs can be seen clearly in how extraordinary their beers taste.

Huske Hardware House Restaurant and Brewery is owned by a veteran and has been around for more than 20 years.

The structure which houses this business is more than a hundred years and it is listed under the National Register of Historic Places

Take to tasting their four seasonal brews and six custom-crafted brews. The restaurant also has a patio, a perfect outdoor dining space.

Huske Hardware House Restaurant and Brewery makes one of the best places to eat or take a drink with a travel companion in the city.

Address: 405 Hay Street Fayetteville, NC 28301.

15. Sweet Tea Shakespeare

Sweet Tea Shakespeare was established to provide the public with an accessible theatre inspired by the works of Shakespeare.

Just like what was obtainable in Shakespeare’s time, the Sweet Tea Shakespeare features a theatre with a surrounded space, this way, the stage is at the center surrounded by the audience.

This type of staging is known today as “thrust and arena staging “. It’s worth noting that this is the best type of staging for the audience to get the feeling of being part of the play.

Create time to watch a play performed in this theatre, you will be glad that you did.

Address: 206 Bradford, Ave, Fayetteville, NC 28305.

16. Fayetteville Area Transportation and Local History Museum.

Fayetteville Area Transportation and Local History Museum is a place worth adding to your checklist of things to do in Fayetteville.

This is a history museum that is situated in Cape Fear and Yadkin Vally Railroad Depot.

Cape Fear and Yadkin Vally Railroad Depot was built in 1890. After being restored and beautifully renovated, it now serves as the location of the Fayetteville Area Transportation and Local History Museum.

At Fayetteville Area Transportation and Local History Museum, you will find two different floors that are filled with artifacts and exhibits.

You will find objects which tell the history as far back as the early twentieth century.

Do check out an interactive steamboat and the recreated Station Agent’s Office. There is also an area that features vintage cars as well as a recreation of a 1920’s gas station.

Fayetteville Area Transportation and Local History Museum is a place you will love to revisit, its numerous exhibits are regularly rotated which makes the whole experience ever new.

Address: 325 Franklin St, Fayetteville, NC 28301.

17. The Climbing Place

The Climbing Place is a popular gym place in Fayetteville, it is also the oldest gym place in the state of North Carolina.

Opened first in the early years of the 1990s, the gym has endured the test of time.

Some of the features of the Climbing Place includes a two thousand square feet of space for climbing, this consist of exercising equipments such as military ropes, obstacles, cargo nets, campus boards, ledge, top out, Ninja warrior, travel, bouldering and so many more.

There is also a gym transverse that features more than three hundred feet of wall climbing meant only for skilled climbers.

This is a place to go for a fun time, They are opened from Monday to Saturday at 10am, closing time is 8pm.

Address: 436 W Russel St, Fayetteville, NC 28301.

18. Carter Blueberry Farm

One of the places you should check out while you are in Fayetteville is the Carter Blueberry Farm.

This farm is arguably the largest pick-your-own-blueberry farm in the whole of North Carolina.

You can be one of the thousands of visitors who cash into the opportunity provided by these farms to come pick blueberries.

Having been around for more than forty years, this Blueberry Farm has become a part of the community.

Carter Blueberry Farm began as a small farm in 1970 when Buck and Ellon Carter planted blueberry bushes. Today, the Farm sits on a six-acre land space containing more than two thousand blueberry bushes.

You can also buy some of the blueberries (which the farm sells) for yourself at a low price.

Address: 4140 Clinton Rd, Fayetteville, NC 28312.

19. Luigi’s Italian ChopHouse and Bar

Established in the year 1982, Luigi’s Italian ChopHouse and Bar is one of the favorite restaurants in Fayetteville.

This restaurant is known for offering dishes of high quality at a very moderate price.

Some dishes Luigi’s Italian ChopHouse and Bar specializes in includes pan-sauteed pasta dishes, hand-cut chops and Black Angus steaks, and homemade sauces.

Features of the restaurant include main dining rooms, two private dining rooms, patio dining, and a bar, all of which are set in a casual atmosphere.

While having a nice meal here, don’t forget to check out the drinks in their drink menu such as delicious wines, spirits, and beers, they also serve cocktails if that’s your pick.

Address: 528 N. McPherson Church Rd, Fayetteville, NC 28303.

20. David Mc Cune International Art Gallery.

A visit to David Mc Cune International Art Gallery makes one of the best things to do in Fayetteville, NC. This gallery is located on the grounds of the Methodist University Campus in Fayetteville.

This University art gallery plays host so many exhibitions all through the year. Some artworks featured in these exhibitions were created by the students of the Methodist University. Others were obtained from artists from other parts of the country as well as international artists.

David Mc Cune International Art Gallery was established to create an avenue to teach both the students and the public the various aspects of arts, how arts affect living, and how to appreciate its works.

The art gallery is open from Tuesday to Saturday every week during the academic year.

Address: 5400 Ramsey St, Fayetteville, NC 28311.

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21. Sandhills Family Heritage Center

As you take a guided tour around the Sandhills Family Heritage Center, you will get to learn a lot about the history of African American heritage in the North Carolina area.

Some of the stories you will hear during your visit cover through the slavery period up to the Civil Rights Movement.

As you pass through galleries and antique memorabilia, you will learn a lot about how life was like during this era.

22. Mash House Brewery and Restaurant

One of the best restaurants in Fayetteville North Carolina is the Mash House Brewery and Restaurant.

The Mash House Brewery and Restaurant was opened in 2001, it is today known for serving some of the best cuisines in the city.

While enjoying your meal, check out also the award-winning beers which they serve. Most of these beers were brewed in-house by the restaurant using the Old World Brewers traditional brewing methods.

Mash House Brewery and Restaurant makes what to do in Fayetteville for some relaxation time enjoying a nice meal, do consider a visit.

Address: 4150 Sycamore Dairy Rd, Fayetteville NC 28303.

23. Mazarick Park

Mazarick park sits on an eighty-acre land space, this park is a heaven for outdoor recreational activities.

Some of the features of Mazarick park include a picnic shelter, hand areas, a lake for fishing, a playground for kids, a hiking trail, and other fun-filled areas.

You will also find a baseball field, a golf course, and a tennis court in the park for some game time.

The Glenville Lake Pier is a water body in this park, you must provide a fishing license issued to you by the state for a pass to fish here.

Mazarick park also offers lots of educational programs to the public.

If you plan on visiting the city with your kids, visiting this park makes what to do in Fayetteville with kids for a fun time, it is one of Fayetteville NC attractions you should not miss.

Address: 1400 Belvedere Ave, Fayetteville, NC 28305.

24. Pierro’s Italian Bistro

Pierro’s Italian Bistro is a family-owned restaurant that is situated in the downtown area of Fayetteville.

A gem in the city, this restaurant features exposed brick walls and vintage hardwoods, all of which creates a homely atmosphere.

You can enjoy any of the wine from their very diverse selection, you will find both the meal, drink, and the atmosphere of this place memorable.

Dishes offered by this homely restaurant include salads, brick-oven pizza, pasta dishes, desserts, and lots more.

Address: 217 Hay St, Fayetteville, NC 28301.

25. Chris’s Steak and Seafood House

Chris’s Steak and Seafood House was opened by Chris Poulus for more than fifty years now.

This is a legendary steakhouse in Fayetteville which was established with one goal in mind – to serve the highest quality seafood and steaks available.

This goal is reflected in the touch of excellence in the food they serve as well as the service rendered. This has been the major reason for the restaurant’s success.

Some of the dishes you will find in the restaurant menu includes fresh Atlantic Seafood, Angus Beef hand-cut in-house, homemade specialties, and a very extensive fine wine selection.

You can check out Chris’s Steak & Seafood House every day of the week for dinner by 5:00 p.m, closing time is 10pm except Sundays which is slated at 9pm.

Address: 2620 Raeford Rd, Fayetteville, NC 28303.

26. Cameo Art House Theatre

Another great place to add to your checklist of fun things to do in Fayetteville, NC is the Cameo Art House Theatre.

This Theater was first opened in 1920, it is popular as one of the oldest theatre in the city.

Recently renovated, Cameo Art House Theatre now shows quite a range of movies including recent releases. You can get to watch classics and art-house films here.

During your visit, take out time to appreciate the gorgeous features of the building which is close to a hundred years old.

Address: 225 Hay St, Fayetteville, NC 28301, United States

27. Arnette Park

A visit to Arnette Park is one of the top things to do in Fayetteville.

Arnette Park covers more than 100 acres, it features hiking trails which run through the park.

If you are looking for a nice place to stroll with your loved one or take in the beautiful view of North Carolina while you are in the city, this park is the best place to come visit.

You can also be a part of the many games held in the ball fields found in the park.

If you are visiting with kids, the park has a playground for the younger visitors.

Address: 2165 Wilmington Hwy, Fayetteville, NC 28306, United States

28. Campbellton Landing

Campbellton Landing is situated on the east bank of Cape Fear River, this is a place with a long and illustrious history.

Founded in the year 1762, this area was just a ferry landing for the community that lived in what was known as the Campbellton village. Today, it is a popular entertainment venue.

This makes one of the best places to have a fun time as you attend one of the special events held here.

Campbellton Landing also provides its visitors with free fishing opportunity, do come with your fishing gears to engage in this activity.

Some marine life you may find include catfish, spotted Bass and Striped Bass.

Address: 1122 Person Street, Fayetteville, NC 28301.

29. All-American Fencing Academy

You will find All-American Fencing Academy in the downtown area of Fayetteville.

Fencing is a great way to exercise the body, at this academy, you get to learn the skill as well as meet new friends.

If you haven’t engaged in fencing but wish to learn the art, you can be part of the beginner classes which start at the academy every month.

All American Fencing Academy is an Olympic fencing institution, thus, you will get to learn from highly talented teachers and experts.

Address: 207 Donaldson St, Fayetteville, NC 28301, United States

 30. Arsenal Park

Though a small park, Arsenal Park is a historical park to explore in Fayetteville.

After the 1812 war, the United States government decided to strengthen its defense, five arsenals were commissioned, one of these arsenals was built in Fayetteville, NC.

This arsenal was used to produce ammunition, rifles, and gun carriages, however it was destroyed in 1865 by Union troops.

Take to exploring its ruins during your visit, you will meet explanation signage – two Civil war trail marker and a semblance of what was known as the ghost tower.

This is one of the top things to do in Fayetteville, North Carolina.

You will find gorgeous grassy meadows and hiking trails, these will bring a fun hiking during your vacation.

Address: 215 Myrover St, Fayetteville, NC 28305, United States

31. Cape Fear Regional Theatre

In the Hay Street, Fayetteville, you will find one of the best theatres in North Carolina, Cape Fear Regional Theatre.

Here you will get to watch some off-Broadway Productions, elaborate musicals, children’s films, and classic comedies.

These performances are aimed at enlightening, inspiring, educating, and entertaining their audience.

This theatre provides a behind the scene tour of the theatre production (though the tour has to be arranged in advance). They as well offer educational programs and extensive outreach to the public in the region.

Address: 1209 Hay St, Fayetteville, NC 28305.

32. Escapology Fayetteville

Whether you are visiting with your family or not and want a more comprehensive list of things to do in Fayetteville, add a stop at Escapology Fayetteville.

Escapology Fayetteville offers visitors a fake real-life experience where they are transported to a new world.

The game can be played by up to eight players who have to challenge themselves by solving riddles and searching for clues and hints that would help them escape the room in time.

This escape facility was carefully crafted to offer players the kind of thrills they seek and assure them of a fantastic experience.

Address: 2770 Freedom Pkwy Dr. Suite #4, Fayetteville, NC 28314, United States

33. Auman Vineyards

Auman Vineyards has been cultivating scuppernongs and muscadines since 1968, and they began growing grapes naturally in 2000.

The owners give visitors a chance to pick their own grapes or purchase pre-picked grapes from selected Roadside farm markets or vineyards.

 Having grown these crops for more than thirty-five years, Auman Vineyards is an excellent place to tour and learn about the plants.

 Address: 1300 71st School Rd., Fayetteville, NC, 28314, United States

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Plan a Trip to Fayetteville

Fayetteville is one of the best cities to visit as a tourist, this lovely city is filled with all things beautiful to give you a fun vacation.

What next? Start planning your trip to this city of North Carolina, pin this article to always have a go-to guide as you explore this city.