Fun Things to Do in Fayetteville

By Julie Gordey

Apr. 19, 2025 at 5:00 PM CST

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The hype is true. Fayetteville is a fun place to call home. This North Carolina city will please people of all ages including families, retirees, and young professionals. Cumberland County makes it easy to relax and play with Southern hospitality, charm, and stunning natural beauty. Fayetteville is calling your name, and it is time to see why.

Must-Do Attractions

Whether you are seeking exciting adventures or tranquil relaxation, Fayetteville has something for you here. For those wanting to immerse themselves in the history and rich culture, the notable museums including the Airborne & Special Operations Museum and the Fayetteville Area Transportation and Local History Museum deliver. Heroic feats of airborne soldiers are featured along with interactive exhibits and artifacts. The Fayetteville Museum of Art offers a diverse collection of contemporary and traditional artworks. Feeling fancy? The Museum of Cape Fear Historical Complex whisks you back to Victorian times with the stunning 1897 Poe House.

Explore the Great Outdoors

The natural splendor and outdoor escapades will refresh your soul and energy. Choose to escape the hustle and bustle at the extensive network of parks and recreational areas. Cape Fear Botanical Garden is a serene oasis where you can stroll amidst stunning floral displays, tranquil ponds, and winding pathways. Lace up your walking shoes and explore the Cape Fear River Trail, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a scenic bike ride. Feeling more active? Lake Rim Park offers hiking trails, fishing opportunities, and picturesque picnic spots, making it an ideal destination for a day of outdoor fun with family and friends. Feeling adventurous? Zipquest Waterfall & Treetop Adventure Park lets you soar through the trees! And for a taste of the wild side, venture to Raven Rock State Park, where stunning waterfalls and hiking trails await. Additionally, the Carvers Creek State Park, located just a short drive from Fayetteville, beckons with its pristine forests, scenic trails, and historic Rockefeller House.

Dining and Shopping

There is an abundance of retail therapy and culinary delights. Indulge your inner shopper in Downtown Fayetteville with its treasure trove of boutiques, art galleries, and shops. Savor delicious meals at quaint cafes, upscale restaurants, and coffee shops. Palate pleasing flavors include North Carolina barbecue, fresh seafood, Southern comfort food, and international cuisines. Some local favorites are found at The Pharmacy and The Market House. The Fayetteville Farmers Market is bursting with fresh produce and artisanal goods.

Unique to Fayetteville

Those taste bud tempting flavors are often incorporated in the vibrant calendar of events and festivals. The annual Fayetteville Dogwood Festival is a win with its live music, arts and crafts, and carnival rides. Celebrate the rich cultural heritage of the region through cuisine, music, and dance at the International Folk Festival. Catch a live show at the Cape Fear Regional Theatre. Enjoy live music at one of the bars or sample some chili at the fall chili cookoff.

Entertainment Options Await

Sports enthusiasts definitely have a place in Fayetteville. If you love minor league baseball, Segra Stadium offers a quintessential Fayetteville experience. Get ready for a perfect night of hot dogs, cheer, and memories while supporting the Fayetteville Woodpeckers, an affiliate to the Houston Astros.

Fayetteville has the goods to make life fun. Fayetteville is a lifestyle that allows you to spread your wings and live life on your own terms.


Julie Gordey

A lifelong educator, Julie Gordey, is a retired school administrator.  After years of focusing on education, this University of Texas graduate now travels and enjoys freelance writing for BDX and NewHomeSource.com.