What was meant to be a quick drive-through—just a few murals, a few snapshots—quickly turned into something more.

 

Within the first few blocks of downtown Fayetteville, it became clear this wasn’t going to be an ordinary stop. The striking Lady Muriel mural glowed from a brick wall on Person Street. Around the corner, a dragon curled beside a local café. Tucked into an alley, a “Be Kind and Patient” mural appeared like a quiet reminder, followed soon after by a set of butterfly wings not marked on any map.

 

And farther out, in Spring Lake, the bold and reverent Special Forces mural stood tall beneath a setting sun—solid proof that Fayetteville and Cumberland County aren’t just colorful, but full of both official and wonderfully unexpected art.

 

The Painted Path is more than a mural trail—it’s a choose-your-own adventure of color, culture, and creativity. Whether you’re planning a girls’ getaway, a road trip with the kids, or a weekend escape for yourself, this trail is a weekend-worthy invitation to explore. Grab your camera, book a cozy hotel, and discover the city you didn’t see coming.

 

This is how I would schedule a weekend of art, food, and Fayetteville:

Day 1: Mural Magic & Downtown Moments

Fayetteville’s downtown core is home to a compact and easily walkable loop of street art that’s perfect for kicking off a creative weekend. If you're driving in from your hotel, you’ll even catch a glimpse of the We Are Fayetteville Mural under I‑295—a striking preview of the artistry that awaits. The downtown "Walkable Loop" section of the trail is walkable and stroller-friendly, with public parking nearby. While you're downtown, it's easy to add in a few more artistic gems—like the powerful Constant Vigilance K9 Memorial at the Airborne & Special Operations Museum, the uplifting Angel Wings outside Greg’s Pottery, and the interactive Love Locks Wall inside Cursive. These honorable mentions are just steps away and perfect for rounding out your Day 1 adventure.

Here’s the route:

  1. Festival Park Flag Mural – Located near the symphony stage, this patriotic piece sets the tone for your journey.
  2. Victory Means More Here – A mural with hometown pride on the exterior wall of Segra Stadium.
  3. Lady Muriel – At 101 Person Street, this Art Nouveau-style beauty adds elegance to the trail.
  4. Angel Wings – Painted on the exterior of Greg’s Pottery—perfect for a lighthearted photo op.
  5. Love Locks Wall – Located inside Cursive, this indoor installation is all about shared stories and commitments.
  6. Welcome to Fayetteville - J. Cole – At 208 Rowan Street, this bold tribute honors Fayetteville’s own global music icon.
  7. Arts Council Mural Walk – A curated series of public art pieces behind the Arts Council building.
  8. Old Street Oasis – Lush, vibrant, and bursting with natural inspiration.
  9. Captain of Your FAYte – Nautical imagery and an empowering message wrap up your downtown tour.

 

 

A mural of a beautiful woman in a purple, off-the-shoulder dress

Local Tip: Turn your stroll into a stay. With nearby hotels, cafés like Rude Awakening, and restaurants like Blue Moon, this mural loop makes for a great first day in town.

 

Mural of flying toucans and a stalking tiger on the side of the Prima Elements Holistic Wellness Center building on Person St. in downtown Fayetteville, NC

Day 2: Art, Nature & Small-Town Charm

Morning:
Wake up and get out into nature with a peaceful visit to Cape Fear Botanical Garden. Stroll through seasonal blooms, grab a light breakfast at the on-site café, and snap some selfies with your crew by colorful sculptures and floral murals.

Late Morning:

Drive into Spring Lake to see the Special Forces Mural, a vibrant tribute to community and service. Just around the corner, pop into A Stitch in Time—a locally-owned embroidery and quilting shop brimming with small-town charm.

For a taste of authentic Spring Lake flavor, try Legacy Rolls (less than 2 miles away), a recently opened family-run spot known for their sweet roll sandwiches and Southern soul inspired menu.

Afternoon Unwind Lakeside:
After a short drive to Hope Mills Lake you'll be in for a treat! Scenic water views and the charming local mural. Walk a bit, relax on a bench, then head over to Dirtbag Ales Brewery & Taproom for a relaxed finish to your weekend. With outdoor seating, food trucks, a playground, and local art—including its own mural—this spot is perfect for winding down with the whole gang.

 

A mural of a kneeling soldier in desert camouflage uniform with weapon at the ready, sunset color palette and multiple city skyscapes in the distance

Map It Out:

Check out the interactive Painted Path map to plan your route or tap through stops in real time.

A young girl viewing a map of Fayetteville's Cape Fear Botanical Gardens

A Weekend Full of Color

From girls’ getaways and road trips to family staycations, The Painted Path gives you an artistic itinerary full of connection, creativity, and unexpected moments. Check into one of our welcoming hotels, explore the local food scene, and let each mural introduce you to a different side of Fayetteville. The Painted Path lets you choose your own pace, style, and route—no rigid schedules here. Want to hit every mural in one whirlwind day? Go for it. Prefer to space it out with long brunches and garden stops? We're definitely here for that too.

This is a weekend meant to be captured, shared, and remembered. So grab your phone, grab your crew, and come see why Fayetteville is one of North Carolina’s most surprising (and photogenic) escapes.

Download the Digital Destination Guide for extra planning tips, dining recommendations, and hidden gems beyond the murals.

Looking for a shorter reference? Download the mobile-friendly Painted Path Weekend Itinerary here.

Come for the color. Stay for the story. And take a little inspiration home with you.

Helpful Resources:

Bed icon—Find a Place to Stay Destination Guide icon—Download the Digital Destination Guide
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