Calling all lizard lovers, exotic animal fans, and curious kids — something wildly fun is coming to the Greater Fayetteville area, and it’s crawling with excitement!

On August 23 and 24,  Repticon brings its nationally loved reptile and exotic animal convention to the Crown Complex Expo Center, and it’s your chance to get up close (but not too close) to some of the coolest critters you’ve ever seen.

From slithery snakes to hoppy frogs, fuzzy tarantulas to giant lizards, Repticon is the perfect weekend escape for families, pet lovers, nature nerds, and anyone who thinks turtles are just really, really cool.

 

Repticon again

Where to Stay Near Repticon

Need a cozy nest for your Repticon weekend? We have over 70 hotels for all budgets and needs. Here are a few hotels just minutes from the action:

·       DoubleTree by Hilton – Right off I-95, and a short drive to the Crown Coliseum, downtown Fayetteville, breakfast, EV charging, and a pool

·       Hampton Inn & Suites – Cedar Creek Rd – Trusted, clean, and pet-friendly for traveling families

·       Tru by Hilton Fayetteville I-95 – Modern and budget-friendly

·       SpringHill Suites by Marriott – Roomy and stylish, great for longer stays

 Book now!  These fill up fast when events like Repticon come to town. Browse all Hotel Accommodations in Cumberalnd County. 

 

What to Expect at Repticon Fayetteville

Repticon is a full-on interactive animal expo filled with educational talks, hands-on experiences, and vendors galore. Whether you’re shopping for a new scaly friend or just want to watch a bearded dragon eat its lunch (it’s more exciting than it sounds), this is the place to be.

Expect: - Live animal encounters and feeding demos - Reptile merch and accessories - Expert Q&As on pet care, conservation, and habitats - Vendors from across the Southeast selling exotic pets and supplies

Don’t worry — it’s family-friendly and there are lots of opportunities for safe, supervised interaction.

Where to Eat Nearby (Yes, Even If You’re a Picky Eater)

All that reptile-wrangling can work up an appetite. Good thing Greater Fayetteville has lots of delicious spots near the Crown Complex.

For Families & Comfort Food Lovers: - Chason’s Buffet – A new buffet/cafeteria hybrid with a wide variety of southern-style options (1758 Owen Dr) - Pizza Palace – Homemade sauce on spaghetti, pizza, and other classic Italian dishes passed down through generations (109 Hope Mills Rd) - Zorba’s Gyro on a Spit – From breakfast to dessert, enjoy fresh Mediterranean plates with variety everyone can agree on (2919 Raeford Rd)

For Adventurous Foodies: - Saigon Market – Vietnamese eats with nearby boba bubble tea (824 Santee Dr) - Bento Jubako & Sushi – Japanese favorites like sushi, noodles & grilled meats served in a contemporary (2651 Raeford Road) – Gangnam Korean BBQ & Hotpot – Cook your own Korean barbeque and hotpot right at the table, plus sushi and dessert buffet (1800 Skibo Rd)

Things To Do While You’re in Town

When you’re not picking out your new pet gecko, take time to explore these animal- and nature-loving spots nearby:

📸 Bonus tip: Share your adventures and critter moments by tagging our social media (DistinctlyFayettevilleNC) or using #FayFaves.

One More Thing

Whether coming from another state or county— Repticon is the perfect excuse for an interesting weekend adventure you’re guaranteed not to forget.

 

🗓️ Repticon Fayetteville
📍 Crown Expo Center | August 23–24, 2025
🎫 Tickets and details: repticon.com

Planning your visit?


Don’t just wing it—download our free Digital Destination Guide for even more creature-feature events, family fun, and Fayetteville favorites. It’s the easiest way to map out your wildest weekend yet.

 

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