1. A Military Town, Through And Through
The first thing people think of when you mention
Fayetteville is probably Fort Bragg, the largest United States Army installation and home of the 82nd Airborne Division and XVIII Airborne Corps. There’s a lot of military and ex-military in and around Fayetteville and military-related businesses. So no wonder that...
2. You Might Even Hear It Called “Fayettenam”
In Fayetteville, you might hear banter such as: “Hey, I’m headed into Fayettenam for some brews”. Why? In the '60s, protesters were in opposition to shipping out U.S. troops from Fort Bragg to Vietnam, and thus the nickname “Fayettenam” was born. You’ll still hear locals using the name to this day.
3. Downtown Is So Much More Nowadays
Downtown Fayetteville used to be a little...um, how do I say this? Sorta shady. But cute shops, businesses and restaurants have moved in and the area is becoming much more lively and fun.
4. It’s Easy Being Green In Fayetteville
If trails and parks are your thing, be prepared to be thrilled. There are countless parks and greenspaces in Fayetteville. Notables are Cross Creek Linear Park (which has been going through a major facelift to get even more awesome), Freedom Memorial Park, the Cape Fear Botanical Garden, Clark Park Nature Center and the Riverside Dog Park.
5. And Even Easier To Hit The Green
Fayetteville is made for golf lovers, with four courses by famous designers and 19 miles of fairways. Grab your clubs and hit the 360 uncongested holes. And you better train up: The 2014 U.S. Open Championship is held less than an hour away in Pinehurst.
6. Iron Mike Is Your New Best Friend
The Airborne Trooper, aka Iron Mike, stands guard over the entrance to the Airborne & Special Operations Museum in Fayetteville. He’s over 16’ tall and a little intimidating, holding a Tommy Gun. Just so you know, there is no special “Mike” in town—he’s a general tribute to all paratroopers, even the ladies.
7. Less Is More At The Farmer’s Market
You can shop and eat like a local at the Fayetteville Farmer’s Market. It’s not the largest farmer’s market you’ve ever been to, but it’s growing and has introduced a lot of new options over the last few years. Fun fact: All items are produced within 50 miles of Fayetteville.
8. The Great Bambino Made History Here
In 1914, when George Herman Ruth, Jr. was 19 years old, he hit his first home run in Fayetteville. He was only here for a month, and since he didn’t know what to do he followed his manager, Jack Dunn around town. Everyone kept saying “There goes Dunn’s new babe”—and Babe Ruth was born. Or so the story goes.
9. Everyone Comes Out To The International Folk Fest
If you’re planning to visit or move to Fayetteville around September, it’s a must to time your arrival with the International Folk Festival. 2014 marks the 36th year of great international music, food, and dancing in the streets.
10. And Every Other Festival Too
There are a lot of festivals in Fayetteville, and it would be too trying to name them all. If there’s an excuse for music and dancing outdoors, count them in. These people are always looking for a reason to party.
11. The Favorite Sweet Tooth Cure Is Gelato
Sure, everyone loves the coffee at The Coffee Scene, but what they really crave is the drool-worthy gelato. Try some caramel latte, cheesecake, cookie dough and chocolate hazelnut, as well as seasonal and special concoctions. Tip: Every Tuesday is BOGO - buy one, get one free - and yes, that includes pints and quarts.
12. An Adrenaline Rush Is Just A Zipline Away
Grab a zipline and soar over Fayetteville’s only waterfall, Carver’s Falls, at ZipQuest. This is one of the most fun activities in area, and with 16 tree platforms, eight ziplines, three canopy sky bridges and spiral staircases, it’s a world class experience. Want the ultimate adventure? Try their night quest.
13. Sometimes You Might Feel Like You’ve Stepped Back In Time
Whether it’s a festival, demonstration or a presentation you stumble across, there are going to be times in Fayetteville when you’ll be sure you’re in the Victorian era or a Civil War scene. Don’t panic, just pull out your smartphone to remind yourself that this is indeed 2014.
14. There’s Only One Place For Sushi In Fayetteville
Everyone knows the best sushi in town is at Mikoto. This Japanese steakhouse offers a fantastic hibachi experience and the best sake bar in Fayetteville with more than 27 different kinds. Take your time to sip and dine, because they aren’t known for rushing you out the door like some other places.
15. Who Needs Sundance When You Have The Cameo?
The CAMEO Art House Theatre is a favorite for art, independent, foreign, and classic films, and is the go-to spot for film festivals. Need another reason to go? They serve alcohol during shows.
16. No Matter Your Jam, You’ll Find It Here
Prefer to watch live music than squeeze into a crowded nightclub? The Rock Shop Music Hall is known for the best local, national and international bands and live music. You’ll hear everything from rock, metal and hip-hop, to indie and soul. If you’re into performing, they have a killer open mic night.
17. Fayetteville Is A Meat And Potatoes Kind Of Place
When you’re famished and have some cash to spare, head to The Mash House. Get the Monster Mash, a 40 oz. slab of prime rib, soup or salad, two sides, dessert and a pitcher of beer all included. Finish it all, if you dare.
18. Forget Pub Crawls, The Cool Kids Do Gallery Crawls
Every fourth Friday of the month, with the exception of December, locals do an old fashioned "Gallery Crawl" around downtown to visit local businesses, shops, art galleries and restaurants, and to see live performance art and music. It’s just one way that downtown is being revitalized, and one of the best ways to meet your neighbors. The best thing is that it’s totally free.
19. Artisan Food Is A No-Brainer In Fayetteville
Local provisions are easy to get in Fayetteville, and not just at the farmer’s market. The Butcher and the Baker offers delicious artisan breads and fresh baked goods, grass-fed meats and dairy products. High quality, local everything.
20. Fayetteville Takes Their Dickens Very Seriously
In December downtown Fayetteville is turned into a Victorian wonderland as the scent of gingerbread and cider wafts through the air and horse drawn carriages cart you around. You might even spot Ebenezer Scrooge with the ghost of Jacob Marley not far behind. The candlelight procession by the costumed townspeople is followed by an incredible fireworks display. OK, that last bit isn’t very Dickens, but still awesome.
21. Insider Tip: Elizabeth’s Pizza Is The Only Slice You'll Ever Need
Now you know: The best pizza in town is at Elizabeth’s. Don’t even try it anywhere else. This is pretty great information, because everyone hates bouncing around from one pizza joint to the next.
