.png){kind=logo}
Things to do in Fayetteville, NC this Weekend
Welcome to Fayetteville, the All-American city complete with stellar dining options, shopping destinations, and outdoor recreation opportunities. Our community is tucked away in the Westover neighborhood, just fifteen minutes south of Fort Bragg and a short drive from downtown. Residents often ask us for dining and entertainment recommendations, so we’ve put together a list of our favorite spots in "The Fay."
Top 5 Restaurants In Fayetteville
Mac's Speed Shop
When Wynn Davis and Hall Johnston came up with the concept for their new restaurant, the aim was to weave together their shared passion for the three B’s— beer, BBQ, and bikes. Out of this trifecta, Mac’s Speed Shop was born. The menu is stacked with award-winning barbeque dishes like the dry-rubbed pulled pork, the St. Louis-style ribs, and perfectly smoked chicken on the bone, along with non-traditional items like garlic parmesan shrimp skewers, cedar plank salmon, and signature hamburger creations. With over twenty years in business and nine locations across North Carolina, Mac’s Speed Shop is a bonafide North Carolina BBQ legend.
Olea's Mediterranean Kitchen
La Perla Cuisine of Nayarit
The cuisine of Mexico is diverse as its beautiful land, people, and culture. In the northern regions where cattle ranching has been in practice for centuries, dishes like fajitas and arrachera emerged organically. Down south in Oaxaca, seven rich variations of mole have become the culinary staple. Yet in the southwest region of Nayarit, the food is heavily influenced by the local fishing culture and abundance of the Pacific Ocean. Lucky for Fayetteville locals, La Perla Cuisine of Nayarit has built a menu around the region’s world-famous cuisine. Choose from local Nayarit classics like the huachinango zarandeado (red snapper), patas de cangrejo (crab legs), and five different types of ceviche. The team at La Perla Cuisine of Nayarit carries the magical flavors of the Pacific Ocean right to your plate.
Luigi's Italian Chophouse & Bar
Luigi’s Italian Chophouse & Bar is a legendary Fayetteville eatery that has gone through multiple evolutions in its 70+ year history. The original location was opened in the 1950’s by Peter Parrous, a Greek immigrant with an incredible work ethic and knack for the restaurant business. Today, the restaurant is run by Pete’s children and features an expanded menu that includes tried-and-true Luigi’s Italian classics, as well as new additions like hand cut steaks and freshly caught seafood dishes. Longtime fan favorites include the chicken parm, bone-in cowboy ribeye, and homemade lasagna. Luigi’s Italian Chophouse & Bar is a true Fayetteville institution and delivers a dining experience that you won’t want to miss.
Gangnam Korean BBQ
Korean BBQ is one of the globe’s most unique culinary delights, complete with marinated meats, a plethora of colorful side dishes, and of course, the famous self-grilling stations built into each dinner table. Located just five minutes north of The Cole Apartments, Gangnam Korean BBQ brings the best of Korean cuisine to Fayetteville. The menu is simple, but effective, offering patrons the option to grill their favorite fresh meats or cook them hot pot style in a rich, savory broth of their choosing. Diners can pair their meals with drinks like soju, a traditional liquor, or makgeolli, a crisp Korean rice wine. Dining at Gangnam Korean BBQ will turn your meal into a fully interactive experience filled with sights, sounds, aromas, and tantalizing flavors.
Top 5 Places To Go In Fayetteville
The signature landmark at Raven Rock State Park is a 150-foot-tall mega structure that visitors can hike up to and enjoy panoramic views of Cape Fear River and the surrounding forest. Raven Rock itself is a 400-million-year-old geological marvel that tells a story of how the landscape around Fayetteville was shaped. Popular routes include the Raven Rock Loop Trail, the Lanier Falls Trail, and the Northington Ferry Trail which leads to a historic river crossing. If hiking isn’t your activity of choice, the park also offers ample opportunities for fishing, biking, horseback riding, paddling, and camping. Situated only 45 minutes north of the city, Raven Rock State Park is one of Fayetteville’s most cherished local treasures.
Military history buffs will find their curiosity piqued at the Airborne and Special Operations Museum, an immersive American cultural center that is specifically focused on the heroism of the U.S. Army airborne and special operations force. There are a range of captivating and interactive exhibits such as a WWII C-47 aircraft drop scene, a Vietnam War jungle patrol diorama, and displays from Desert Storm and post-9/11 military missions. Visitors will leave with a comprehensive overview of the Army’s airborne history from the early 1940’s to modern times, along with a deep appreciation for the American heroes who served and fought for our country.
The Cape Fear Botanical Garden is one of Fayetteville’s most celebrated landmarks, a world-class botanical center with a diverse collection of over 1,200 different plant species, specialized gardens, and a highly skilled team of horticulturists, botanists, and groundskeepers. Bordered by the Cape Fear River to the east and spread across 80 beautiful acres, the gardens provide Fayetteville with a peaceful setting, even while the city center buzzes and hums just two miles away. Visitors will love winding through prized exhibits like the Japanese Garden, the Rhododendron Garden, and the stunning Camellia Collection.
The Cameo Art House Theatre is a restored relic of cinema which plays a pivotal role in Fayetteville’s history while also continuing to enrich the community with fresh & modern cinematic experiences. The theater curates an exciting program of movies throughout the year that includes indie films, blockbusters, documentaries, foreign films, and more. The main auditorium is filled with a powerful Dolby digital sound system, comfy opera-style seating, and of course, a classic old-time charm that can only be found at a historic theater like the Cameo. Be sure to check back frequently to the Cameo Art House Theatre website for an up-to-date movie schedule.
Located just 15 minutes east of The Cole Apartments, B&B Bowling Lanes is a highly rated bowling facility with 24 state-of-the-art lanes, an onsite pro shop, and a friendly, welcoming atmosphere. Consistently touted as one of Fayetteville’s top bowling centers, B&B features a wide range of league options for bowlers of all ages and experience levels. One highlight is their “300-800 Club” which donates money to a local charity anytime someone bowls a perfect game of 300 or 800 series— it’s the perfect way to enjoy yourself while also giving back to the community. B&B Bowling Lanes is also the perfect venue for birthdays, team building events, and other special celebrations.