30 Fun Things to do in Fayetteville, NC This Summer

“I want someone to look at me the way I look at a travel magazine.” – Unknown

Heya! It’s Sam.

The other day someone asked me in the comments what happened to the lady I met in Miami. I didn’t know that you all remember these things.

So, you want to know what became of that lady? I’ll tell you in a bit, but first, I’m in Fayetteville, North Carolina exploring a myriad of things.

Guess which book I tagged along for this trip? The Alchemist! I’m still reading it. And don’t get me wrong, the book is one of the best I’ve read in a while. I’m just doing that thing where I have a problem letting go of good books. I’m having separation anxiety and so I’m holding on to it as much as  I can.

Anyway, back to the reason why you are actually still reading. Unfortunately, that ship didn’t sail, but we are good friends and we exchange book titles and travel destinations now and then. Isn’t that a good thing?

Here are some fun things to do in Fayetteville as you process this.

Fayetteville is a city in North Carolina named after Marquis de La Fayette.

He was a noble Frenchman who served as a Major General during the Revolutionary War in the Continental Army. 

This fact comes as no surprise as the city is renowned for its rich military history.

But, the city is more than this. It is also a cultural and arts destination, as you will see in the list below.

Make your North Carolina vacation a breeze with our list of the best resorts in North Carolina!

Exploring the city’s attractions will teach you so much about American history, culture, and arts. 

Fayetteville is also home to beautiful and scenic natural sites where you can go and connect with nature.

And of course, when all is said and done, there are restaurants and bars where you can taste the best of the city’s cuisines and craft beer. 

35 Things to do in Fayetteville

1. Airborne and Special Operations Museum

Rating: 4.9★

Entry tickets: Free entry

Address: 100 Bragg Blvd, Fayetteville, NC 28301

Why you should go: The Airborne and Special Operations Museum is a small five-star rated museum in downtown Fayetteville, NC.

It aims to conserve the memory of the sacrifices made by military personnel who served as airborne troops and in special operations forces. 

Things to do: The museum has an array of audio and visual exhibits where guests can see the selfless sacrifices and works of the United States military men.

Their historic work is also displayed through paintings, photographs, diorama art, and other historical artifacts gathered from different periods.

• The Airborne and Special Operations Museum opens every Tuesday to Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm, and Sundays from 12 pm to 5 pm. 

• It is 14 minutes away from Fayetteville Regional Airport.

2. The Fayetteville Area Transportation and Local History Museum

Rating: 4.6★

Entry tickets: Free entry

Address: 325 Franklin St, Fayetteville, NC 28301

• It is housed in the 1890 Cape Fear and Yadkin Valley Railroad Depot.

Why you should go: The Fayetteville Area Transportation and Local History Museum is a facility dedicated to telling the history of this city from pre-historic times to the 20th century. 

Some exhibits showcase the history of the transport sector in the area.

Things to do: The facility has two exhibition floors filled with historical artifacts and other memorabilia that take visitors on a trip back in time through the city. 

In other exhibits, you will see and learn about vintage cars, a historical gas station from the 1920s, plank roads, and a Silsby Steam Pump Engine from the 1880s. 

• The Fayetteville Area Transportation and Local History Museum opens every Tuesday to Saturday from 10 am to 4 pm.

• It is 13 minutes away from Fayetteville Regional Airport.

3. North Carolina Veterans Park

Rating: 4.8★

Entry tickets: Free Entry

Address: 300 Bragg Blvd, Fayetteville, NC

Why you should go: The North Carolina Veterans Park is the ‘First Sanctuary Community for the Military’ in the United States dedicated to honoring the sacrifices and memories of American veterans, both dead and alive.

It honors veterans from all Armed Services, including the Marines, the Army, the Navy, the Air Force, and the Coast Guard. 

Things to do: Visit the military park to pay tribute and show respect to the nation’s servicemen.

You will find a 3,500 sq. ft. chandelier that holds about 33,500 identification tags of veterans who have served or are still serving in the Armed Forces. 

• The North Carolina Veterans Park opens every Tuesday to Saturday from 8 am to dusk.

• It is 12 minutes away from Fayetteville Regional Airport. 

4. Cape Fear Botanical Garden

Rating: 4.6★

Entry tickets: $10 for adults (13+) – $5 for children (6-12) – $9 for seniors (65+) 

Address: 536 N Eastern Blvd, Fayetteville, NC

Why you should go: Cape Fear Botanical Garden sits on 80 acres of lush green scenic land covered in themed gardens with exotic plants and flowers. It aims to educate and connect people with nature. 

Things to do: If you are looking for a place to enjoy a serene picnic in North Carolina, you should include this breathtaking botanical garden in your list of things to do in Fayetteville, NC.

Sit in the garden and enjoy the beautiful view of the gardens and the Cape Fear River. 

Visitors can also hold special events at the garden upon prior arrangement with the facility.

• Cape Fear Botanical Garden opens daily, Monday to Saturday from 9 am to 5 pm, and Sundays from 12 pm to 5 pm.

• It is 13 minutes away from Fayetteville Regional Airport.

5. J. Bayard Clark Park & Nature Center

Rating: 4.7★

Address:  631 Sherman Drive, Fayetteville, NC

Why you should go: J. Bayard Clark Park & Nature Center is the second-largest park in Fayetteville. It is a natural park dedicated to camping, preserving the environment, and teaching visitors about the environment.

It has a museum that offers animal viewing and has various exhibits. 

Things to do: You can enjoy a quiet picnic at the park as you overlook a waterfall and the woods. Take in some fresh air and nature’s beauty or enjoy a few days of camping.

It also has trails for those who would love to take a hike or bike. 

• J. Bayard Clark Park & Nature Center is open daily from 8 am to dusk.

• It is 16 minutes away from Fayetteville Regional Airport.

Want to learn more about what North Carolina places to visit? Here you go, enjoy fun things to do in Asheville, and top things to do in Winston Salem this weekend!

6. Lake Rim Park

Rating: 4.4★

Entry tickets: Free entry 

Address:  2214 Tar Kiln Drive, Fayetteville, NC

Why you should go: Lake Rim Park is a recreational center where visitors can enjoy an array of outdoor activities and the beautiful view of the lake and lush green vegetation. 

The park is dog-friendly as long as they are on a leash all the time. 

Things to do: For those who love sports, there is a tennis court, horseshoe pit, athletic fields, and volleyball courts. 

The park features picnic sites and a swimming pool.

There is a one-mile border trail if you would like to enjoy a hike in the woods. 

• Lake Rim Park is open from Monday to Sunday from 7 am to 5p in winter and 7 am to 9 pm in summer. 

• It is 26 minutes away from Fayetteville Regional Airport.

7. Cape Fear River Trail

Rating: 4.5★

Entry tickets: Free entry

Why you should go:  Cape Fear River Trail is a 5.5-mile trail that winds through lush green vegetation and beautiful tall trees.

You will have a spectacular view of the Cape Fear River and over 700 plant and animal species. 

It is a pet-friendly attraction.

Things to do: Include this serene river trail in your schedule.

The trail has both hilly and flat terrain but is suitable for everyone, including children. 

It is a perfect photography location with magnificent plant and wildlife sightings.

Visitors can take up jogging, hiking, or biking along the trails. 

• The park is open all year round, daily from 8 am to dusk.

• It is 54 minutes away from Fayetteville Regional Airport.

8. 1897 Poe House

Rating: 4.8★

Entry tickets: $2 for adults (13+) – $1 for children (Under 12) 

Address: 206 Bradford Ave, Fayetteville, NC

Why you should go: 1897 Poe House is a historic attraction that is the former home of Edgar Allan Poe and his family.

It acts as a museum that showcases the history of Fayetteville in the early 20th century and how this era shaped the current city. 

Things to do: Edgar Allan Poe was a renowned businessman in the city.

A tour of his home will tell you all about his family’s history, work, and contribution to the region. 

You will also learn more about African American history and the role of women and children during this era. 

• 1897 Poe House opens every Tuesday to Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm, and Sunday from 1 pm to 5 pm. 

• It is 12 minutes away from Fayetteville Regional Airport.

9. Fascinate-U Children’s Museum

Rating: 4.2★

Entry tickets: $3 for adults– $4 for children 

Address:  116 Green St, Fayetteville, NC

Why you should go: Fascinate-U Children’s Museum is a facility for kids in Fayetteville, NC, that aims to educate children entertainingly.

  It is designed like a mini-city that children can tour and engage in interactive activities through role-playing. 

It is ideal for children from twelve years and below. 

Things to do: Children can be anything they aspire to be here.

There is a mini farmers market where children can pass by and buy groceries of their choice. Children can host shows and anchor news at the WNUZ studios. 

Other interactive exhibits are a mini-theater, a mini-bakery, a mini-farm, and more!

• Fascinate-U Children’s Museum is open every Tuesday to Friday from 9 am to 5 pm, Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm, and Sunday from 12 pm to 5 pm.

• It is 12 minutes away from Fayetteville Regional Airport.

10. Auman Vineyards

Rating: 4.8★

Address:  1300 71st School Rd, Fayetteville, NC

• It was established in 1968.

Why you should go: Auman Vineyards has been growing scuppernongs and muscadines since its opening in 1968. In 2000, they started growing grapes organically. 

The facility invites visitors to pick their own muscadines and scuppernongs from their beautiful farm.

You can also buy grapes that have already been pre-picked. 

Things to do: Explore the vineyard and learn all about grape farming and its history.

Afterward, get into the farm and pick grapes to your satisfaction. 

There are picnic tables around the farm where visitors can enjoy snacks and meals.

You are advised to bring your own meal.

• Auman Vineyards opens every Monday to Saturday from 7.20 am to 6.45 pm.

• It is 22 minutes away from Fayetteville Regional Airport.

11. Cape Fear Regional Theater

Rating: 4.8★

Address: 1209 Hay St, Fayetteville, NC

Why you should go: A good theater show always makes for a good evening plan.

Thus, you should include Cape Fear Regional Theater in your vacation plan.

It has grown to become one of the best theaters in the region.

It showcases live performances by local actors and artists. 

Things to do: Learn and be entertained at this fine local theater.

Find out when shows are airing. You will marvel at the costume and production design.  

• Cape Fear Regional Theater opens every Monday to Friday from 9 am to 5 pm.

• It is 13 minutes away from Fayetteville Regional Airport.

12. Market House

Rating: 3.9★

Address: Fayetteville, NC

Why you should go: Market House is a National Historic Landmark that stands in what is considered the central point of Fayetteville.

The facility stands on what used to be America’s old State House, which burnt down in 1831. 

It carries rich political history as it is the site where delegates of North Carolina ratified the Constitution of the United States. 

Things to do: As a historical facility, visitors travel to North Carolina to learn more about the country’s political history and the facility’s contribution to it.  

Black slaves were sold here back in the era of slavery.

People come here to pay respect to the black community that went through so much pain in the facility in the 19th century.

• Market House is open daily for 24 hours.

• It is 12 minutes away from Fayetteville Regional Airport.

13. Museum of the Cape Fear

Rating: 4.7★

Entry tickets: Free entry 

Address: 801 Arsenal Ave, Fayetteville, NC

Why you should go: The Museum of the Cape Fear is a facility created to preserve the history and culture of southern North Carolina.

It’s affiliated with the North Carolina Museum of History.

It consists of two floors of exhibits showcasing local history dating back to over four hundred years ago.

Things you should do: Explore the exhibits to see and learn more about slavery, Native Americans, naval stores industry, Fayetteville during the Civil War, folk pottery, plank roads, and European settlers and explorers.  

• Museum of the Cape Fear is open every Tuesday to Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm, and Sundays from 1 pm to 5 pm.

• It is 12 minutes away from Fayetteville Regional Airport.

14. Arsenal Park

Rating: 4.5★

Entry tickets: Free entry 

Address: 215 Myrover St, Fayetteville, NC

Why you should go: Arsenal Park is a picnic and recreational site that was historically commissioned as one of the five arsenals in the United States. Its main designation was to produce gun carriages, ammunition, and rifles before it was demolished by Union Troops in 1865. 

Things to do: Explore this historical park to see the remains of the Confederate arsenal including the ghost tower and Civil War trail markers. 

It is also a beautiful place for a picnic on the manicured grass lawns. 

• It is 13 minutes away from Fayetteville Regional Airport.

15. Mazarick Park

Rating: 4.5★

Address: 1400 Belvedere Ave, Fayetteville, NC

Why you should go: Mazarick Park is a recreational park that is open to the public on a first-come, first-serve basis. However, visitors can call in advance to reserve space.

It features picnic sites, a baseball field, a playground, trails, a tennis court, and a Disc Golf Course. 

The leisure park is home to Glenville Lake.

Things to do: Explore the 80-acre facility and engage in the array of activities available with family, friends, or children.

Take a walk on the lovely trails, play sports, or enjoy a picnic under the blue sky. You can also go fishing at the lake or go for a boat ride. 

• Mazarick Park opens daily from Monday to Sunday, 8 am to 9 pm. 

• It is 15 minutes away from Fayetteville Regional Airport.

16. Arts Council of Fayetteville/Cumberland County

Rating: 4.8★

Address: 301 Hay St, Fayetteville, NC

Why you should go: The Arts Council of Fayetteville has a gallery that exhibits artwork by local, regional, and national artists.

It showcases rotating exhibits so that there is something fresh every time. 

The institution also holds arts festivals and events to celebrate art. 

Things to do: If you are an art lover, be sure to include a visit!

You will be wowed by the artwork of talented artists from this region and all over the country. 

Check out the Arts Council calendar for upcoming events, festivals, and competitions that you can attend during your vacation here. You can also attend an art class if this is something that might interest you.

• Arts Council of Fayetteville/Cumberland County opens every Monday to Friday from 9 am to 5 pm, and Saturdays from 12 pm to 4 pm.

• It is 13 minutes away from Fayetteville Regional Airport.

17. Arnette Park

Rating: 4.5★

Entry tickets: $10 per family vehicle; $30 per commercial vehicle; $75 per coach or bus

Address: 2165 Wilmington Highway, Fayetteville, NC

Why you should go: Arnette Park is a recreational park that spreads out in over one hundred acres of land.

Half of the park features plants, trees, and wildlife, making it an outdoor lovers’ paradise. 

Things to do: There are picnic sites where you can just chill and enjoy nature. 

Take a hike or a nature walk in the natural trails surrounded by scenic trees and plant life. 

If you feel like engaging in sports, you can play tennis, volleyball, golf, softball, and soccer at the designated courts and fields. 

There is a playground for your children to have fun.

Ready to explore North Carolina? Why not check out the top things to do in Greensboro and fun things to do in Raleigh with friends and family!

• Arnette Park opens daily from 7 am to 7 pm. 
• It is 13 minutes away from Fayetteville Regional Airport.

18. Luigi’s Italian Chophouse and Bar

Rating: 4.6★

Address: 528 N McPherson Church Rd, Fayetteville, NC 

Why you should go: Luigi’s Italian Chophouse and Bar is a veteran-owned restaurant that offers the best Italian cuisine in Fayetteville.

It is a family-friendly eatery that offers fresh foods, wines, spirits, and beers.

Things to do: After a long day of exploring things to do in Fayetteville, visit the premises and enjoy a quiet night eating good food and a drink of your choice.

• Luigi’s Italian Chophouse and Bar opens every Monday to Friday from 5 pm to 9 pm, Saturday from 12 pm to 10 pm, and Sunday from 12 pm to 9 pm.

• It is 17 minutes away from Fayetteville Regional Airport.

19. Winterbloom Tea

Rating: 4.9★

Address: 238 Hay St, Fayetteville, NC

Why you should go: Winterbloom Tea is a tea store in Fayetteville that aims to create a culture of vigor, Zen, and health through its tea.

It has a beautiful story centered on the welfare of people. 

The owner, Joshua Choi, says he opened the tea store to supply loose leaf tea upon learning that most bagged tea provides little to no nutritional value. 

Things to do: The store is a local and travelers’ favorite.

That’s why we have included it in our best things to do in Fayetteville. Make your way there during your stay and enjoy a snack and a cup of cold or hot tea in a variety of flavors. 

The store also offers tea classes!

• Winterbloom Tea opens every Wednesday to Saturday from 12 pm to 9 pm, and on Sundays from 11 am to 3 pm.

• It is 13 minutes away from Fayetteville Regional Airport.

20. Gaston Brewing Company

Rating: 4.5★

Address: 124 Hay Street, Fayetteville, NC 

Why you should go: Gaston Brewing Company is an award-winning brewery and craft kitchen located in downtown Fayetteville. It is owned and run by military servicemen and their wives.

It sells freshly brewed craft beers and meals.

Things to do: If you love craft beer, make your way to this local brewing company.

You can visit after a long day of exploring the city to have dinner and a mug of craft beer. 

• Gaston Brewing Company opens every Monday to Saturday from 12 pm to 10 pm, and Sundays from 12 pm to 7 pm.

• It is 13 minutes away from Fayetteville Regional Airport.

21. Gillis Hill Farm

Rating: 4.7★

Entry tickets: $3 per person 

Address: 2701 Gillis Hill Road, Fayetteville, NC

Why you should go: Gillis Hill Farm is a family-owned facility currently run by the ninth generation. 

It is a family-friendly attraction in Fayetteville, NC, and both children and adults will enjoy interesting activities. 

Things to do: The farm features historical sites, ice cream made at the farm, wagon rides, farm animals, corn mazes, and playgrounds. 

It is the perfect destination for you and your kids to experience farm life and enjoy enchanting views of rolling hills. 

• Gillis Hill Farm is open every Monday to Saturday from 11 am to 7 pm.

• It is 13 minutes away from Fayetteville Regional Airport.

22. ZipQuest – Waterfall and Treetop Adventure

Rating: 4.8★

Address: 533 Carvers Falls Rd, Fayetteville, NC

Why you should go: ZipQuest – Waterfall and Treetop Adventure is a world-class recreational park named one of the best zip-line parks in the United States.

It features the famous Carver’s Waterfall, enchanting forests, and beautiful views of Fayetteville city. These are all visible as you go down the zip-line.

Things to do: Visit the scenic park and enjoy a zip-line adventure.

You can choose the longer Waterfall Expedition or a shorter trip dubbed the Treetop Excursion. 

If you love nighttime adventure, go for the NightQuest. 

Raise your adrenaline with Swing Shot which will fly you over Carver’s Creek

• ZipQuest – Waterfall, and Treetop opens daily from Monday to Saturday from 9 am to 5 pm, and Sundays from 10 am to 5 pm. 

• Make a reservation in advance.

• It is 24 minutes away from Fayetteville Regional Airport.

23. Cultural Heritage Trails

Why you should go: Fayetteville has a rich cultural history that you can explore through Cultural Heritage Trails.

They will take you to major historical attractions in the city, depending on the type of trail of your choice. 

Things to do: Explore over 750 miles of themed trails and take a dive in history.

These trails include the African-American Heritage Trail, Antiquing Trail, Gaelic Beginnings Trail, Historic Architecture Trail, Civil War Trail, and more!

24. Sandhills Family Heritage Center

Address: 255 Vass Rd, Spring Lake, NC

• It is formerly known as the Spring Lake Civic Center

Why you should go: Sandhills Family Heritage Center is a historical attraction site in Fayetteville.

It was founded in 1951 by the African American community for the local black youth to use as a community activity facility.

The youth rented out the space for social gatherings. 

Things to do: You can stop by the facility to learn more about African American history.

An outdoor exhibit features a farmers’ market, a plank road, and a brush arbor replica. 

• Sandhills Family Heritage Center opens daily. Viewing of the outdoor exhibit is by appointment only. 
• It is 28 minutes away from Fayetteville Regional Airport.

25. All-American Fencing Academy

Rating: 4.8★

Address: 207 Donaldson St, Fayetteville, NC

Why you should go: The All-American Fencing Academy is the only Olympic fencing instruction center in Fayetteville.

If you have ever been interested in the sport out of curiosity or want to take it as a hobby/career, make sure to pass by the facility. 

Beginner classes are available at every start of the month. 

Things to do: If you are the kind of person who is interested in learning new things, the All-American Fencing Academy should be one of coolest things to do in Fayetteville.

Visit the facility and learn fencing from expert Olympic-level trainers. 

• The facility opens every Tuesday to Thursday from 6 am to 9 pm. 
• It is 13 minutes away from Fayetteville Regional Airport.

26. Cameo Art House Theater

Rating: 4.8★

Address: 225 Hay St, Fayetteville, NC

Why you should go: The Cameo Art House Theater is a movie theater that features foreign, classic, and independent films. 

The theater, located in downtown Fayetteville, was opened in 1920 and was recently restored to its former architectural glory of the 20th century. 

Things to do: Visit the theater to catch one of your favorite films or let the selection surprise you.

It is an ideal way to spend your evening after a long day. 

• Check their website to find out when the movie theater is open.

• It is 13 minutes away from Fayetteville Regional Airport.

27. Campbellton Landing

Why you should go: Campbellton Landing is a historical site on the east side of the Cape Fear River.

It was established as a ferry landing point in 1762. Today, it is a scenic entertainment venue that features an outdoor amphitheater. 

Things to do: The site hosts several events including, movie screenings.

You can visit the site to learn its history and catch an event as you overlook the beautiful view of the Cape Fear River and the lush greenery. 

Fishing is available every day for 24 hours.

28. Fayetteville Rose Garden

Rating: 4.6★

Entry tickets: Free entry

Address: 2201 Hull Rd, Fayetteville, NC

Why you should go: Fayetteville Rose Garden is a scenic attraction site that hosts over one thousand roses.

The garden features picnic sites, gazebo areas, water fountains, and trails.

It is also grounds for special events like weddings and birthday parties.

Things to do: Visit the garden to take in the lovely scent of roses and enjoy their beauty.

You can take a leisure walk around the designated trails. If you wish to learn more about them and how they are grown, some horticulturalists can take you around as they answer all your questions.

If you are planning to hold an event while visiting Fayetteville, be sure to check out the site. 

• Fayetteville Rose Garden is open daily for 24 hours. 

• It is 16 minutes away from Fayetteville Regional Airport.

29. Carter Blueberry Farm

Rating: 4.5★

Entry tickets: Free entry 

Address: 4120 Clinton Rd, Fayetteville, NC

Why you should go: If you love blueberries, blueberry farming, or general farming you should pay a visit to the Carter Blueberry Farm.

It is owned by the Carter Family and was established in 1970.

Locals and visitors are allowed into the farm to pick their own berries. 

Things to do: Go into the beautiful farm and enjoy the outdoor weather as you pick your own berries.

It is also an ideal way of interacting with locals and learning more about the area.

The berries sell at a relatively low price of $2 for every pound.

• Carter Blueberry Farm opens every Wednesday and Saturday from 7 am to 12 pm.

• It is 17 minutes away from Fayetteville Regional Airport.

30. Cross Creek Mall

Rating: 4.0★

Address: 419 Cross Creek Mall, Fayetteville, NC

Why you should go: Of course, a list of things to do in Fayetteville cannot be complete without a shopping mall.

Cross Creek Mall is the best place to visit to fulfill all your shopping needs and explore different cuisines offered in this beautiful city. 

Things to do: The mall features over one hundred restaurants and shopping stores.

You will find local and international designer stores like H&M, Macy’s, JCPenney, and more! 

Buy a souvenir in any of the stores and have a sumptuous meal in one of the eateries. 

• Cross Creek Mall is open every Monday to Saturday from 10 am to 9 pm and Sunday from 12 pm to 6 pm. 
• It is 19 minutes away from Fayetteville Regional Airport.

What are you currently reading and which city are you visiting right now? Let’s talk.