Discover Fayetteville's Painted Path: A Mural Trail Worth the Trip
As the Digital Marketing Manager for DistiNCtly Fayetteville—and someone who loves a good road trip—I recently set out to scout the route for our new mural trail, The Painted Path. I planned a quick drive-through. A few murals, a few photos—just enough to get a feel for the stops.
But within the first few blocks, I knew this wasn’t going to be a quick stop.
Lady Muriel stood glowing against the wall on Person Street, and around the corner, a dragon curled up beside a café. A few turns later, I found a “Be Kind and Patient” mural tucked into an alley. Then a butterfly wing mural I hadn’t seen on any map. And by the time I reached the Spring Lake Special Forces mural—bold and reverent in front of a setting sun—I realized Fayetteville and Cumberland County were full of art that was both official and wonderfully unexpected.
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
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.
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.
Map It Out:
Check out the interactive Painted Path map to plan your route or tap through stops in real time.
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.
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