Planning a trip that makes everyone happy—from curious toddlers to fun-loving grandparents—can be a challenge. But in Fayetteville and Cumberland County, NC, it’s more than possible—it’s so easy! We’ve even started for you!
Whether you're traveling with grandparents, parents, and kids, or even inviting along a few cousins, this long weekend itinerary helps you create memories together—while also making space for some well-earned grown-up time.
Friday: Arrival & Easy Exploring
Afternoon – Check In & Settle In
Whether you're staying in a charming vacation rental or a centrally located hotel, Fayetteville and Cumberland County, NC offers numerous options. Need help deciding? Explore our places to stay → Best Hotels & Places to Stay in Cumberland County & Fayetteville, NC
Evening – Stroll & Supper Downtown
Ease into your weekend with a stroll through Historic Downtown Fayetteville. Browse local shops and galleries, then enjoy dinner at Blue Moon Café or Circa 1800, which both offer kid-friendly options and a relaxed atmosphere.
Pro Tip: Outdoor seating lets little ones wiggle while adults enjoy people-watching and great grub.
Saturday: History, Nature & Family Time
Morning – A Walk Through History
Start the day with a visit to the Airborne & Special Operations Museum, where interactive exhibits and life-size displays will spark stories from grandparents and inspire awe in kids. Best of all? Admission is free.
Afterward, head to North Carolina Veterans Park, just next door, for a short and peaceful walk.
Lunch – Picnic at the Park
Pick up sandwiches from Pan and enjoy lunch at Cape Fear Botanical Garden. Kids can explore the Children’s Garden while adults soak in the scenic views and peaceful walking trails. Everyone will enjoy a stroll through the Heritage Gardens.
Afternoon – Fun for All Ages
Let the family bond over a round of putt-putt golf and more at Putt-Putt Fun Center or explore Fascinate-U Children’s Museum, where younger kids can role-play in kid-sized versions of real-world places.
Evening – Wind Down
After a day of exploring everyone can enjoy a sweet treat from nearby The Sweet Palette.
If you’d rather stay in, grab takeout from a local favorite like Pharaoh's Legacy or Luigi’s, and end the night with a movie marathon or board games in your hotel or vacation rental.
Sunday: Choose Your Own Adventure… and a Grown-Up Date Night
Morning – Split up for Age-Perfect Fun
Let grandparents take the lead with a gentle visit to the Museum of the Cape Fear (be sure to take the guided tour of The 1897 Poe House!) or enjoy a scenic drive along one of Cultural Heritage Trails.
Meanwhile, parents and kids can burn some energy at Surge Trampoline Park or rent bikes to explore the Cape Fear River Trail.
Lunch – Regroup & Refuel
Meet back up at Fred Chason's Grandsons Buffet, where everyone can find something they love—from Southern comfort food to healthier fare.
Afternoon - Relax & Recharge
After lunch, stop in at Rocket Fizz Soda and Candy Shop to stock up for grandparents' babysit tonight then head back to the hotel or vacation rental for some downtime. Little ones can nap, teens can chill, parents and grandparents can kick up their feet and finalize plans for the evening.
Evening - Grandparents Babysit, Parents Reconnect
Grandparents’ Night In
Order a pizza in and leave the grandparents in charge while parents sneak out for some time to themselves. Kids will enjoy board games, bedtime stories, or a cozy movie night and hot chocolate with their grandparents.
Parents’ Date Night
Start the evening at Cursive, a local boutique, for a bit of browsing, but mostly to lock in your love at the Lock Wall. Next a cocktail at The District House of Taps followed by dinner at Antonella's Italian Ristorante or Pharaoh's Legacy for Mediterranean flair. End the night with a sweet treat from Rude Awakening Coffee House or a stroll under the downtown lights.
Everyone wins tonight—the kids feel special, the grandparents get cherished grandkid time,
and you get a well-deserved moment to reconnect.
Monday: One More Memory
Morning – Sweet Goodbyes
Before heading home, make one last stop at Leclair’s General Store for unique souvenirs and vintage charm and enjoy breakfast at M&D Pancakes and Waffles for down-home favorites.
Don’t forget a family photo at the “We are Fayetteville: Legacy and Future” mural at the corner
of I-295 and North Ramsey—the perfect way to end your multi-generational adventure.
Plan Your Visit to Fayetteville, NC
Whether it’s your first time here or one of many, Fayetteville offers genuine hospitality, diverse experiences, and fun for all generations of the family.
Explore More Things to Do → distinctlyfayettevillenc.com/things-to-do
Book Your Stay → distinctlyfayettevillenc.com/places-to-stay
