Things to Do in Fayetteville NC

Fayetteville offers diverse attractions from world-class military museums to outdoor recreation, combining history, culture, and Southern charm.

Top Attractions

Airborne & Special Operations Museum

Free admission, chronicles airborne and special operations history with interactive exhibits and motion simulator.

Cape Fear Botanical Garden

80 acres of gardens along the Cape Fear River featuring native plants, walking trails, and seasonal events.

Downtown Fayetteville

Historic downtown with restaurants, shops, galleries, and regular events like 4th Friday.

Cape Fear River Trail

Scenic 5-mile paved trail perfect for walking, running, and biking along the river.

Outdoor Activities

• Kayaking on Cape Fear River
• Clark Park Nature Center
• Lake Rim Park
• Smith Recreation Center
• Multiple golf courses

Arts & Culture

• Cameo Art House Theatre
• Sweet Tea Shakespeare
• Gilbert Theater
• Fayetteville Museum of Art
• Cape Fear Regional Theatre

Family Activities

• Fascinate-U Children's Museum
• Fantasy Lake Water Park
• ZipQuest Waterfall & Treetop Adventure
• Movie theaters
• Bowling centers

Seasonal Events

• International Folk Festival (September)
• Dogwood Festival (April)
• 4th Friday (monthly downtown)
• Holiday celebrations

Fayetteville combines military heritage, outdoor recreation, and cultural attractions to offer visitors and residents year-round activities.