There are plenty of activities to do in Fayetteville if you’re in the area. You’ll find an abundance of cultural attractions in this city, which date back centuries. Plus, the food here is fantastic! Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or staying for a while, these are the 22 best things to do in Fayetteville, NC.
Arnette Park
Arnette Park is a beautiful, scenic park. The park covers over 50 acres of land and features a variety of amenities for visitors to enjoy. The park’s main attraction is its large lake, perfect for fishing, swimming, and canoeing.
The park also has a playground, picnic areas, and hiking trails. In addition, the park hosts several annual events, including a Fourth of July celebration and a holiday lights display. Arnette Park is a great place to spend a day with family or friends and is sure to create lasting memories.
Cape Fear Regional Theatre
One of the best places to see live theater in the area is the Cape Fear Regional Theatre. As a regional cultural leader, the theatre has been producing high-quality live shows for over 50 years. The Cape Fear Regional Theatre houses two Main Stage Auditoriums and an intimate Black Box Theatre. The theatre presents a wide variety of programming, including classic and contemporary plays, musicals, dance performances, and educational outreach opportunities.
In addition to its commitment to presenting excellent live theatre, the Cape Fear Regional Theatre is also dedicated to supporting the local arts community. The theatre offers space for rehearsals, auditions, and other events hosted by local arts organizations. The Cape Fear Regional Theatre is an essential cultural asset in Fayetteville and continues to enrich the lives of residents and visitors alike.
J Bayard Clark Park & Nature Center
Park visitors can enjoy a range of outdoor activities at J Bayard Clark Park & Nature Center. The park is ideal for families with children with a playground, picnic spots, and a 1.5-mile walking track. The park is home to a wide range of species, including deer, turtles, frogs, and a wide variety of birds.
The Nature Center features exhibits on local history and ecology, and classrooms are available for educational programs. Its scenic beauty and amenities make it a great place to enjoy the outdoors.
Fayetteville Area Transportation and Local History Museum
This one-of-a-kind museum teaches visitors about the city’s transportation history. Various transportation-related artifacts are on display. An old trolley station now serves as the museum’s home base.
The museum has several unique artifacts, including an original trolley car from the Fayetteville Street Railway Company. It is open from 10am to 4pm on Tuesdays through Saturdays, and visitors are welcome to come anytime. The museum’s on-site gift store sells many publications and items linked to the region’s transportation heritage.
Cape Fear Botanical Garden
This is a tranquil haven in the city. Among the several gardens in the garden are a children’s garden, a herb garden, and an indigenous plant collection. Visitors may get up and personal with the beautiful animals in the butterfly house.
The Cape Fear Botanical Garden offers various educational activities and events throughout the year besides the gardens. The Cape Fear Botanical Garden has something for everyone when it comes to learning about native flora or just taking in the scenery.
Luigi’s Italian Chophouse and Bar
For decades, this place has been a Fayetteville mainstay at the historic Washington Duke Hotel. The restaurant has served authentic Italian cooking for over half a century, including everything from spaghetti and meatballs to lasagna. Luigi’s is known for its vast wine list and excellent dishes.
With more than 200 labels to choose from, there’s sure to be the perfect bottle to pair with your meal. And if you’re looking for a place to enjoy some after-dinner drinks, the bar at Luigi’s is the ideal spot to relax and unwind. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, pay a visit to Luigi’s Italian Chophouse and Bar – you won’t be disappointed!
Lake Rim Park
This park is open to the public. There is an artificial lake in the park, beautiful walking routes, and a wide range of recreational options. Fishing, picnicking, and birding are just some activities available to park goers. Concerts and festivals are just some of the yearly activities at the park. Lake Rim Park is a beautiful spot to unwind in the fresh air and forget about the stresses of daily life.
If you wish to visit more places in North Carolina, see the things you can do in Cherokee, NC.
Cultural Heritage Trails
The Fayetteville area is home to several Cultural Heritage Trails that allow visitors to learn about the region’s history and culture. The African-American Heritage Trail, for example, highlights the contributions of the area’s black community. At the same time, the Civil War Heritage Trail tells the story of the conflict that tore the nation apart.
Visitors can also explore the history of the local Native American tribes on the Trail of Tears or learn about the area’s agricultural heritage on the Farm Life Trail. Whether interested in history, culture, or just getting outdoors, the Cultural Heritage Trails of Fayetteville are sure to offer something for everyone.
Milton E. Mazarick Park
Milton E. Mazarick Park is a popular spot for hiking and picnicking. The park features a beautiful waterfall, the centerpiece of the hiking trails. Mazarick Park is also home to various wildlife, including deer, squirrels, and birds.
In addition to its natural beauty, the park also offers several amenities, such as picnic tables and grills, a playground, and a basketball court. Visitors can also rent canoes and paddleboards to enjoy the scenic river that runs through the park. Whether you’re looking for a challenging hike or a relaxing day in nature, Milton E. Mazarick Park is sure to please.
Chris’s Steak & Seafood House
Chris’s Steak & Seafood House is a local favorite. The restaurant is known for its juicy steaks, fresh seafood, and homemade sauces. Chris is a skilled chef who has been perfecting his craft for over 20 years.
In addition to the great food, Chris’s Steak & Seafood House offers an extensive wine list and a cozy atmosphere. The restaurant is perfect for a date night or a special occasion. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner for two or a fun night out with friends, Chris’s Steak & Seafood House is the perfect place to go.
The Wine Café
The Wine Café is a popular gathering spot in Fayetteville, North Carolina. The café offers a wide variety of wines and a menu of small plates and sandwiches. The casual and relaxed atmosphere makes it the perfect place to unwind with friends.
The Wine Café also offers weekly wine tastings, allowing visitors to try new wines and learn about different varietals. In addition, the café often hosts live music on weekends, making it the perfect spot for a night out. Whether you’re looking for a place to enjoy a glass of wine or dance the night away, The Wine Café is sure to please.
Fayetteville Rose Garden
In the heart of downtown Fayetteville, North Carolina, is a hidden gem known as the Fayetteville Rose Garden. This picturesque garden is home to over 300 roses, all meticulously cared for by a dedicated group of volunteers.
The garden is open to the public year-round, and visitors can stroll along the brick pathways or relax on one of the many benches. During the spring and summer months, the roses are in full bloom, providing a colorful oasis in the middle of the city. The Fayetteville Rose Garden is an extraordinary place, and it is well worth a visit if you find yourself in Fayetteville.
Segra Stadium
Segra Stadium is a state-of-the-art minor league baseball stadium located in downtown Fayetteville. The stadium is the home of the Fayetteville Woodpeckers, a Single-A affiliate of the Houston Astros. Segra Stadium opened in 2019 and has a capacity of just over 5,000 fans.
The stadium features a unique design with a cantilevered grandstand that provides all fans with unobstructed field views. In addition, Segra Stadium has a spacious concourse with plenty of room for concession stands and merchandise kiosks. The stadium also features a Kids Zone with activities and games for young fans. Segra Stadium is a top-notch facility that provides an enjoyable experience for all who attend.
1897 Poe House
Fayetteville’s Poe Home, built in 1897, is a historic house museum. Colonel Robert F. Poe, a well-known local lawyer, commissioned the construction of this Queen Anne-style mansion for his family. In honor of Edgar Allan Poe’s daughter, Sarah Ann Annie White Poe, Poe’s wife, the home is named after her.
The city of Fayetteville owns and operates the Poe House, which is available to the public for visits. The home’s original furniture are on display, and guests may learn about the life of Colonel and Mrs. Poe while they’re there. Many historic residences in Fayetteville are available to the public for tours and activities, including the Poe House.
Arsenal Park
Arsenal Park is a historic site. The park is home to the remains of an 18th-century arsenal, which was used to store firearms and ammunition during the American Revolution. Today, the park is open to the public and offers a variety of amenities, including a playground, picnic areas, and a walking trail.
The park also hosts several events, such as concerts and festivals. Arsenal Park is a popular spot for residents and tourists and is an excellent example of North Carolina’s rich history.
Huske Hardware House Restaurant and Brewery
In 1998, the Huske Hardware House Restaurant and Brewery opened its doors to the public for the first time. The restaurant and brewery are well-known in the area for their Southern-inspired food and beer. There are grits, shrimp, and fried green tomatoes on the menu at this establishment.
The brewery’s flagship beer is the Husker Red Ale, but other popular beers include the hardware IPA and the brewed seasonal beer. In addition to serving food and drinks, Huske Hardware House hosts live music on Fridays and Saturdays. The restaurant has a casual atmosphere and is popular with locals and tourists alike.
Dirtbag Ales Brewery and Taproom
There is a local brewery called Dirtbag Ales Brewery and Taproom. Beers, including India pale ales (IPA), chocolate stouts (ST), and sour ales (SO), are available at the brewery. Additionally, Dirtbag Ales offers seasonal and rotating taps in addition to their usual selections. Growler fills, and crowler cans are available in the taproom, open from Wednesday through Sunday.
On Wednesdays, the brewery offers a free tour of the brewing process. Dirtbag Ales takes pride in being a part of the Fayetteville community and partners with local businesses to host events and fundraisers. The next time you’re in Fayetteville, stop by Dirtbag Ales and try one of their delicious beers!
Campbellton Landing
Campbellton Landing is a popular spot for visitors. The landing is on the Cape Fear River and offers stunning views of the downtown area. Visitors can take a stroll along the riverfront walkway, relax in one of the many parks, or go for a swim in the pool. The landing also features a playground and picnic areas, making it an excellent spot for families. Campbellton Landing is a scenic spot perfect for an afternoon of relaxation.
Sweet Tea Shakespeare
Sweet Tea Shakespeare is a theater company. The company was founded in 2009 to produce exciting and accessible interpretations of Shakespeare’s plays. Sweet Tea Shakespeare has since become known for its innovative productions, which often incorporate elements from other genres such as comedy, drama, and romance.
In addition to its mainstage productions, Sweet Tea Shakespeare offers workshops and classes for students and adults. Whether you’re a longtime Bard fan or just starting, Sweet Tea Shakespeare has something to offer everyone.
Cornerstone Design Co.
Cornerstone Design Co. is a full-service interior design firm in Fayetteville, North Carolina. The company was founded in 2006 by designer Tricia Ward and has since earned a reputation for producing beautiful, timeless interiors. Whether working on a new build or a remodel, the team at Cornerstone Design Co. takes a collaborative approach to each project, ensuring that the client’s vision is brought to life.
In addition to residential design, the company offers commercial design services and has worked on projects ranging from small retail spaces to large corporate offices. No matter the size or scope of the project, Cornerstone Design Co. is dedicated to creating interiors that reflect their clients’ unique styles and personalities.
Cameo Art House Theater
There’s an independent and international film theater in Fayetteville; North Carolina, called the Cameo Art House Theater. After operating for almost a decade, the cinema has developed a dedicated following of local moviegoers. Movies at the Cameo Art House Theater vary from big-budget blockbusters to obscure art-house flicks.
The theater also offers a variety of special events, such as Q&As with filmmakers, trivia nights, and themed movie nights. In addition to its regular programming, the Cameo Art House Theater hosts several film festivals, including the Fayetteville Film Festival and the NC Gay & Lesbian Film Festival. Whether you’re a diehard cinephile or just looking for something different than your standard multiplex fare, the Cameo Art House Theater is worth checking out.
Carter Blueberry Farm
Carter Blueberry Farm is a family-owned farm that produces fresh blueberries. The farm was established in 2009, and since then, the Carter family has been dedicated to growing high-quality blueberries. The farm is open to the public for picking from late May to early July.
During this time, visitors can enjoy picking their berries and participating in other activities such as hayrides and picnics. The Carter Blueberry Farm also offers a variety of blueberry products for sale, including jams, pies, and ice cream. The Carter Blueberry Farm is perfect for those looking to taste North Carolina blueberries.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a city that offers plenty of things to do, Fayetteville is the place for you. With its rich history and variety of cultural attractions, there’s something for everyone in this North Carolina city. Don’t miss out on all that Fayetteville has to offer!
