Couple hiking at Carvers Creek

Whether you are visiting family or friends, spending a night before traveling on I-95, or spending a weekend (or a week!) exploring the greater Fayetteville region, you will find plenty to keep everyone entertained all Spring and Summer. Summertime tends to be more relaxed, and you can take the time to explore some of our community’s gems. Make one of our 72 hotel properties your home base, and take the time to explore. 

Although there are plenty of things to do each spring, here are five of our favorites

 

#1 Stroll Like a Rockefeller

Visit Carvers Creek State Park to stretch your legs and explore 10 miles of easy trails. At the Long Valley Farm access point in Spring Lake, two hikes lead to Long Valley farm, James Stillman Rockefeller’s winter estate. At the Sandhills Access on McCloskey Road in Fayetteville, hikers, bikers, and horseback riders can explore seven trails of varied length. Each of the trails offers a unique look at the ecology and wildlife in this rare Longleaf Pine ecosystem. During a hike, visitors will likely see the active red-cockaded woodpeckers (marked with a white band), and even a fox squirrel scampering into the woods. Red-cockaded woodpeckers are a federally protected endangered species and one of the largest populations resides in this region.

#2: Cool Down On the Water 

If water sports are your thing, rent a kayak, canoe, or paddleboard from Yakalacky Outfitters and spend the day on the water. Yakalacky Outfitters, located in Hope Mills, takes reservations to nearby parks/lakes Tuesday through Sunday starting at 9 a.m. We recommend spending your time on the water at Hope Mills Lake. Aside from the beautiful location, Hope Mills Lake offers community favorite Big T’s, which serves up SnoBalls, Snow Creams, and many other cool treats.

 

#3: Shop Farm Fresh Products and Hande-made Goods 

Every Sunday morning from late March to Thanksgiving, the Dirtbag Ales Farmer's Market attracts a large following that comes to sip beer, enjoy music, take a yoga class and shop the best local produce and products from area farmers and artisans. For lunch, choose from one of the local food trucks or the on-site restaurant Napkins. Also, on Sunday mornings, Napkins creates its menu from items available at the Farmers Market. In addition to the brewery and restaurant, the Dirtbag Ales complex offers a large family-friendly playground and dog park.

 

#4: Explore Downtown Before Catching a  Baseball Game at the World-class Segra Stadium 

 Spend Saturday exploring downtown Fayetteville and then catch the Fayetteville Woodpeckers in action at Segra Stadium. Here are a few ideas to enjoy before heading to Segra for a 5 p.m. first pitch:

  • Grab a refreshing iced tea at Winterbloom Tea, or try one of their fabulous tea cocktails. 

  • Enjoy lunch outside or cool off inside at Blue Moon Café, Gaston Brewing Company, or the Fried Turkey Sandwich Shop.

  • Experience sculptures downtown or view the current displays of artistry at Cape Fear Studios or the Arts Council of Cumberland County. 

Once you arrive at Segra Stadium you’ll find a little park that packs all the fun of the major leagues into a smaller format. Brats and brews, popcorn and peanuts, an outfield bar, and a children’s play area and grassy hillside for family picnics welcome America’s pastime. And typically, before the 7th-inning stretch, railroad cars rumble down the adjacent tracks and toot their horn into the stadium. The best part of a Woodpeckers’ game? The seats are so close to the playing field that you can hear the players chattering in between pitches and the balls whizzing by.

 

#5 Ice Cream

Take the kids to visit the Gillis Hill Farm in western Fayetteville, which has been farmed by the Gillis family since the 1700s. Start your visit at the farm's ice cream shop, where the ice cream and other desserts are all homemade and utterly delicious. If you purchase a cone during ice cream season, you can then take a self-guided farm tour for free. The kids will delight in seeing all the farm animals and exploring the old farm buildings and equipment on display. Otherwise, simply take your scoop of deliciousness to the front porch and just "sit a spell" in the rocking chairs. 

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If your question was not answered here, please call us at (910) 483-5311 or email us at travelnfo@distinctlyfayettevillenc.com.
 
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trip ideas & Greater Fayetteville inspiration

FAQ

What are the best outdoor activities to enjoy in Greater Fayetteville this spring?

Visitors can explore scenic places like Carvers Creek State Park for hiking and wildlife watching, rent kayaks or paddleboards on Hope Mills Lake, stroll through spring blooms, and enjoy family‑friendly parks and trails throughout the region.

Are there family‑friendly events or attractions happening in the spring?

Yes — spring in Fayetteville offers plenty for families, including farmers markets with music and local vendors, baseball games with the Fayetteville Woodpeckers at Segra Stadium, and seasonal outdoor fun perfect for all ages..

What should I know about local food and drink experiences during spring?

Spring is a great time to enjoy outdoor dining and local food gatherings. Sunday markets like the one at Dirtbag Ales combine local produce, artisan goods, and community vibes — plus on‑site options like Napkins often serve fresh seasonal menus inspired by market finds