Fayetteville, NC: 10 Amazing Things to Do
by PCSgrades Staff - October 3rd, 2022
Time Magazine has declared Fayetteville, North Carolina as ‘America’s Most Pro-Military Town.’ It is also a city with a mix of rich history and lots of southern hospitality! Many spots around Fayetteville celebrate the military service of America’s men and woman. Those stationed at nearby Fort Bragg get to experience this vibrant, historical city up close.
Our list of amazing things to do in Fayetteville, NC
1. Smith Lake Recreation Center
If you enjoy camping as well as other outdoor activities, the tranquil setting of Smith Lake in the midst of North Carolina’s long-leaf pine tree forest is the place for you. You can camp or rent a rustic cabin through Fort Bragg’s MWR program. Outdoor and recreational equipment such as bounce houses, campers, and kayaks are also available for rent. However, pets and hunting are not allowed. All cabins are air-conditioned/heated, but you must supply your own sheets, blankets, pillows, and towels.
2. 82nd War Memorial Museum
Fort Bragg is a great post for Army families, and there are plenty of events in Fayetteville for military kids. The 82nd War Memorial Museum and outdoor Airplane Park on Post is a favorite with the kids who love looking at retired planes, helicopters, and tanks up close. You can find this hidden gem off of Ardennes Street on post.
For more reasons you'll love being stationed at Fort Bragg, read our highlights here.
3. Need an adrenaline rush?
If you can't jump out of planes with the troops, then indoor skydiving at Paraclete XP Indoor Skydiving will fill the bill! Located in Raeford, a short drive south of Fayetteville, this unique facility also has a few different chain restaurants nearby to enjoy after your skydiving experience.
4. Cape Fear river boat rides
Experience the beauty and natural history of the Cape Fear region during a narrated nature cruise along scenic coastal rivers. This one is a favorite on our list of things to do in Fayetteville NC. Two, four, and eight-hour cruises start at Riverside Marine at Campbellton Landing. Prices vary depending on the size of the group. They offer military discounts, and children 12 and under are free.
Want to get off base and explore North Carolina? Check out our list of fun day trips form Fort Bragg here.
5. Dogwood Festivals
The Dogwood Festival is a highlight of the spring in downtown Fayetteville. On the fourth weekend in April, the community comes together to enjoy free concerts, food, a street fair, and art exhibits. If you're stationed at Fort Bragg, the festival is a great way to experience fun things to do in Fayetteville.
6. Need to relax?
Floating Shanti is the coolest holistic health and wellness business to join the Fayetteville community. This veteran-owned business provides massage therapy, reflexology, Reiki, yoga, and float therapy. Unfortunately, couples are not allowed to float together, but this place will surely help you both relax.
7. The Coliseum
Our list of amazing things to do in Fayetteville NC would not be complete without the Coliseum. The Harlem Globetrotters and Fayetteville ComicCon are just two of the many popular events held at the Crown Coliseum. Concerts, sporting events, and much more scheduled throughout the year in Fayetteville make this venue a must attend.
8. 1897 Poe House
Yes, Edgar Allan Poe was born in Fayetteville. The Poe family home was built in the year 1897. On a visit to the Poe house, you can learn about life in the first decades of the twentieth century and the changes that defined this era. Tours highlight women’s roles, African American history, children’s roles, and technological, economic, and social changes in southern North Carolina.
9. Celebrate the Army
The U.S. Army Airborne and Special Operations Museum is a free museum located downtown Fayetteville. This museum is donation only and provides a unique look at the US military’s Airborne and Special Operations groups throughout many eras in U.S. history.
10. Enjoy the theatre
Don’t miss the restored Cameo Art House! Billed as an ‘alternative’ art house experience in Fayetteville, the Cameo Art House shows a range of films including new releases as well as classics and art house films.
If you are stationed at Fort Bragg, we hope you enjoy all these amazing things to do in Fayetteville North Carolina!
