Fayetteville, North Carolina

A- Overview:
Fayetteville, North Carolina is an all-American city with a proud past and a promising future. There is much to commend Fayetteville as an attraction for tourists. Residents of the city consider it an ideal place in which to live, work and bring up a family. Fayetteville is known for its gracious hospitality and Southern charm.

Thousands of soldiers and airmen reside at Fort Bragg and Pope Air Force Base in what is one of the world’s largest military complexes. From Pope Air Force Base, thousands of elite paratroopers deploy on missions to the world’s hot spots. Fayetteville’s colorful heritage includes historical leaders in the armed forces who excelled during the Revolutionary War, the Civil War the two world wars, and the war in Vietnam.

The Airborne and Special Operations Museum alone is one of the area’s premier attraction. This state-of-the-art educational facility houses exhibits and programs that speak to the honor, courage, duty, and heroic feats of this unique sector of the American armed forces from its inception in 1940 to present-day operations.

Although the military presence provides the bedrock for Fayetteville’s economy, many nationally and internationally known businesses originated in the region. Today the Fayetteville area provides the nation with one of the most diversified centers for manufacturing industries, which insures a solid economic base from which to recruit new industries and to plan comprehensive, long-term growth.

Telecommunications figure prominently in the industry mix and are attracted to Fayetteville because of the diverse labor force and the technological capability to handle the needs of any new business.

Families with children will find The Climbing Place an ideal location to work off some of that boundless energy. Conveniently located in the downtown area, the facility is professionally staffed and features every conceivable climbing surface and configuration. There are climbing roofs, corners, cracks, arches, slabs, aretes and lead routes. A great way to get in shape while having fun at the same time.

In the spring and summer, be sure to visit the Fayetteville Rose Garden. With over 40,000 roses in bloom from March until October, it’s a sight you won’t soon forget.

If you happen to be visiting in late October, there is Historic Hauntings, described as A Ghastly Ghost Tour. This annual special event features “ghostly” re-enactors and story tellers highlighting the history of Fayetteville and telling some of the spookier legends from Fayetteville’s history. Hayrides are available as well.

For hikers, the Cape Fear region offers some challenging little hills. However, not far to the west, an often-overlooked chain of ancient volcanoes provides the adventure of an Appalachian adventure close at hand. The Uwharrie Mountains rise to 1,000 feet over parts of Montgomery and Stanly counties, about 90 minutes from Fayetteville. Although they are not far from home, the mountains’ isolated vistas, cool breezes, and unusual volcanic rock give visitors the feeling of being a world away.

Fayetteville State University, part of the UNC system, is the state’s fastest growing, most rapidly advancing institution of higher education. The people of the region are committed to maintaining excellence in educational programs. In recent years the Fayetteville State University Bronco teams have brought home 17 championships in football, basketball, golf, volleyball, tennis, bowling, and softball.

Fayetteville offers a variety of cultural venues for all ages and interests. The climate is ideal, allowing for 6-8 months of water-sports activities. Whatever your interests, stop by and spend some time in Fayetteville and surrounding areas and see for yourself! Whenever you visit, whether for business or on vacation; whether military or civilian, this charming North Carolina city awaits you with a warm, welcoming smile.

B- City Information:
Population: 300,281 (includes Fort Bragg), 121,015 (without Fort Bragg)

Elevation: 240 Feet Above Sea Level

Land Area: 58.8 Square Miles

Location: Located on Interstate 95, this North Carolina city is just 66 miles south of Raleigh, 139 miles east of Charlotte and 121 miles Southeast of Winston Salem.

Time Zone: Eastern Time Zone (When it’s noon in Fayetteville, it’s 11:00am in Chicago and 9:00am in Los Angeles).

Fayetteville observes Daylight Saving Time from April – October

Weather:

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

Average temp. (°F)
41.9
44.8
52.1
60.5
68.5
76.3
80.5
78.8
73.1
61.9
53.0
44.9

High temperature (°F)
52.3
56.2
64.3
73.3
80.3
87.0
90.4
88.4
83.2
73.9
64.9
55.6

Low temperature (°F)
31.5
33.3
40.0
47.6
56.8
65.6
70.7
69.2
62.9
49.7
41.0
34.2

Precipitation (in)
4.1
3.5
4.3
3.2
3.4
4.3
5.4
5.0
4.5
3.1
2.9
3.2

Climate:

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

Days with precip.
10
10
10
9
10
10
12
10
8
7
8
9

Wind speed (mph)
8.4
8.8
9.4
9.1
8.0
7.3
7.0
6.5
6.9
6.9
7.4
7.8

Morning humidity (%)
80
78
80
81
84
86
88
91
91
90
85
81

Afternoon humidity (%)
55
52
50
47
54
57
59
60
60
54
52
55

Sunshine (%)
53
57
61
65
61
62
61
59
59
61
58
54

Days clear of clouds
9
9
9
10
8
8
7
7
10
13
11
10

Partly cloudy days
7
6
7
9
10
12
12
12
9
7
7
7

Cloudy days
15
14
14
11
13
11
12
11
11
11
11
14

Snowfall (in)
2.4
2.0
1.1
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.1
0.8

Local Seasons:

With a moderate climate year round in Fayetteville, it is no wonder there is so much to do, regardless of the season. This is a city where you can enjoy scenic beauty and a host of outdoor activities at any time of the year. If you love a cool, crisp day with a hint of snow in the air, January and February are your best bet. With temperatures averaging in the mid-40’s F both these months, it’s not too cold for that stroll through nature. Spring is beautiful in Fayetteville. Beginning in late March, you can watch Mother Nature come alive. Temperatures gradually rise throughout March, April and May. Summer can be hot and humid so be sure to bring along comfortable clothing. As in other parts of North Carolina, fall is known for colorful foliage and beauty in abundance. With temperatures similar to late spring and a myriad of events and festivals taking place, it’s a great time to experience the unique attributes of this truly wonderful city.

How to Get There:

By Air:

Fayetteville is served by the Fayette Regional Airport

The commuter affiliates of major airlines are the primary air carriers serving the region. Each has several flights daily, mainly to Atlanta and Charlotte.

400 Airport Road, Fayetteville NC 28306

910- 433-1160

Ground Transportation From Airport

Airport Taxi Service

910-481-0567

S & D Airport Express

910-424-7275 or 977-1370

Shuttlexpress

910-485-1200

By Car:

Fayetteville is easily accessible from the north or south via I-95 and from the east or west via I-40.

By Bus:

Greyhound Bus Lines

324 Person St. directly across from the Visitors Center 910-483-6107

More than thirty buses to all points stop in Fayetteville daily.

By Train:

Amtrak

472 Hay St.

800-872-7245

Four trains stop daily en-route between New York and Miami.

Getting Around Town:

Fast (Fayetteville Area System of Transit

Offers 12 routes within the urban area and Hope Mills

910-433-1747

National Holidays:

New Year’s Day: Jan. 1

Martin Luther King, Jr., Day: 3rd Mon. in Jan.

President’s Day: 3rd Mon. in Feb.

Memorial Day: last Mon. in May

Independence Day: July 4

Labor Day: 1st Mon. in Sept.

Thanksgiving Day: 4th Thurs. in Nov.

Christmas Eve and Christmas Day: Dec. 24 and 25

New Year’s Eve: Dec. 31

C- Attractions/Things To Do:
Atlantic Coast Line Railroad Station

472 Hay St.

Fayetteville, North Carolina

910-433-1612

Open every other Saturday, call for schedule

Admission Charged

Built in 1911, the station is a rare example of Dutch Colonial architecture. The outside passenger and freight platform and shelter date to World War I. The depot currently serves as an Amtrak passenger station and houses the Atlantic Coast Line Depot Railroad Historical Center.

Beldon-Horne House

519 Ramsey St.

Fayetteville, North Carolina

910-483-8133

Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8:30am-5pm.

Reconstructed after the Great Fire of 1831, it is listed in the National Register of Historic Places and is home to the Fayetteville Chamber of Commerce.

Cross Creek Cemetery

Cool Spring and Grove Streets

Fayetteville, North Carolina

910-433-1612

Call for hours of operation

Admission Charged

Established in 1785, many of Fayetteville’s prominent early citizens are buried here. The oldest Confederate monument in N.C., crafted by noted Scottish stone mason George Lauder, honors the Confederate and Union soldiers buried near Cross Creek in unmarked graves.

Heritage Square

225 Dick St.

Fayetteville, North Carolina

910-483-6009

Open by appointment. Free tours 1st Sun. each month 2-3:30pm.

Admission Charged

Owned and maintained by the Fayetteville Women’s Club, Heritage Square includes three historic structures listed in the National Register of Historic Places: The Sandford House, built in 1800; the Oval Ballroom, a freestanding single room built in 1818; and the Baker-Haigh-Nimocks House, constructed in 1804.

Kyle House

234 Green St.

Fayetteville, North Carolina

910-483-7405

Open by appointment.

Admission Charged

A victim of the great fire of 1831, this house was rebuilt in 1855 with walls 18-inches thick to provide insulation and fire-proofing. A fine example of Greek Revival and Italianate architecture.

Liberty Point

Bow and Person Streets

Fayetteville, North Carolina

910-433-1612

Call for additional information

Free to View

On this site on June 20, 1775, 55 patriots signed a petition declaring independence from Great Britain. The building at this site is the oldest known commercial structure in Fayetteville, constructed between 1791-1800.

Market House

Intersection of Hay, Gillespie, Person and Green Sts.

Fayetteville, North Carolina

910-483-2073

Call for additional information

Free to View

Fayetteville’s Market House was an early center of government and commerce. The upper level housed local government – the lower, stalls for meat and produce vendors. Built in 1832 on an earlier State House foundation, the Market House is listed in the National Register of Historic Places and is a national landmark. Its unique architecture endures as a visible symbol of the city.

Arsenal Park

801 Arsenal Ave.

Fayetteville, North Carolina

910-486-1330

Hours: Tues.-Sat., 10am-5pm; Sun. noon-5pm

Admission Charged

Poe House visit by guided tour (up to 20-min. wait if tour in progress).
In 1836, the federal government commissioned a U.S. Arsenal in Fayetteville. Taken over by the Confederacy when the Civil War broke out, this major munitions center made Fayetteville a prime target for General Sherman during his infamous march through the south. Sherman seized the city in March 1865 and ordered the Arsenal burned.

Evans Metropolitan A.M.E. Zion Church

301 N. Cool Spring St.

Fayetteville, North Carolina

910-483-2862

Open by appointment

Admission Free

Built in 1893, the Gothic-style structure reflects beautiful craftsmanship in the two-story gable front, corner towers and interior woodwork.

Orange Street School

600 Orange St.

Fayetteville, North Carolina

910-483-7038

Open by appointment.

Admission Free

In 1915, the town appropriated funds for a two-story brick structure for African-American children. It is the oldest existing structure in the state associated with public schooling.

Cape Fear Botanical Garden

536 N. Eastern Blvd.

Fayetteville, North Carolina

910-486-0221

Hours: Open Mon-Sat from 10 am to 5 pm, and Sunday noon-5 pm. Closed Sunday mid. Dec. through mid-Feb.

Cape Fear Botanical Garden is situated on 85 acres of land overlooking Cross Creek and the Cape Fear River. The garden includes wild flowers, majestic oaks, nature trails and numerous species of native plants. The Botanical Garden also features an authentic 1800s Farmhouse and outbuildings that are surrounded by a Heritage Garden and homeowner demonstration garden. A favorite site for visitors is also a large gazebo which is set amidst flowering perennial display gardens.

Fayetteville Rose Garden

Hull Rd.

Fayetteville, North Carolina

910-678-8228

Bloom time: Mar.-Oct.

Admission Free

This beautiful garden, located on the campus of Fayetteville Technical Community College, features a wide variety of roses.

Rasland Herb Farm

NC 82

Fayetteville, North Carolina

910-567-2705

Hours: Mon.-Sat. 10am-5pm.

Admission Free

This family-owned herb farm features greenhouses, display gardens and an herb shop.

Jambbas Ranch

Tabor Church Rd.

Fayetteville, North Carolina

910-484-2798 or 910-484-4808

Hours: Mon.-Sat. 9:30am-5pm, Sun. 1pm-5pm. – Oct.-Mar.; April – Sept. open ’til 6pm.

Admission Charged

See animals in a natural habitat including buffalo, llamas, deer, elk, Watusi cows, sheep, ducks and peacocks.

Arts Center

301 Hay St.

Fayetteville, North Carolina

910-323-1776

Hours: Mon.-Thur. 8:30am-5:00pm, Fri. 9am-1pm, Sat. 10am-2pm.

Admission Free

Enjoy unique rotating exhibits in this heart-of-downtown building. Built in 1910 as a U.S. Post Office, it now houses the Arts Council of Fayetteville/Cumberland County and rotating art exhibits.

Cape Fear Studios

148-1 Maxwell St.

Fayetteville, North Carolina

910-433-2986

Hours: Tues.-Fri. 11am-5pm, Sat. 10am-4pm, Sun.1-5pm.

Admission Free

Home to a collective group of local artists and crafters displaying and selling their works.

Gallery 208

Fayetteville, North Carolina

910-485-5121

Call for days and hours of operation

Admission Free

Curated by the Fayetteville Museum of Art, Gallery 208 highlights the art of North Carolina artists with rotating exhibits year round. Outdoor sculpture also on exhibit.

Mallett Rogers House

5400 Ramsey St.

Fayetteville, North Carolina

910-630-7004

Open by appointment

Admission Free

Built about 1830 and restored in 1986, it features exhibits, paintings, sculpture and mixed-media works by Methodist College art faculty and students.

Airborne and Special Operations Museum

100 Bragg Boulevard (at intersection of Hay Street)

Fort Bragg, North Carolina

910-483-3003

Hours: Tues.-Sat. 10am-5pm, Sun. noon-5pm; Closed Mondays; Open Federal Holiday Mondays

Admission Charged

One of the area’s premier attractions, this state-of-the-art educational facility houses exhibits and programs that highlight the honor, courage, duty, and heroic feats of this unique sector of our armed forces from its inception in 1940 to present-day operations. The facility is part of the Army museum system. Highlights include:

59,000 sq. ft. building with 23,000 sq. ft. main exhibit hall

240-seat large-screen theater featuring a specially-produced movie showing these forces in action

24-seat simulator that allows riders to “experience” a helicopter attack, parachute jump and off-road pursuit

Vivid life-size dioramas

Interactive displays

Rare artifacts

Memorial Garden, parade area and unit memorials on 6.5 acre site

Atlantic Coast Line Depot Railroad Historical Center

472 Hay St.

Fayetteville, North Carolina

910-822-1950

Open 2nd & 4th Sat. each month, Noon-4pm, and by appointment.

Promotes the history of N.C. railroads.

Fayetteville Independent Light Infantry Armory and Museum

210 Burgess St.

Fayetteville, North Carolina

910-433-1612

Open by appointment.

Admission Free

The Fayetteville Independent Light Infantry Company is the oldest southern militia unit in continuous existence in the U.S., serving N.C. since 1793. The museum houses two centuries of preserved documents, uniforms and artifacts.

Fayetteville Museum of Art

839 Stamper Rd.

Fayetteville, North Carolina

910-485-5121

Hours: Mon-Sat 10am-5pm, Sun 12pm-5pm.

Admission Free

The museum offers a variety of changing art exhibits, educational programs, concerts, workshops and a gift shop.

Fayetteville State University Planetarium

1200 Murchison Rd.

Fayetteville, North Carolina

910-486-1650

Open by appointment

Admission Charged

General programs in space science and astronomy.

Mallett Rogers House

5400 Ramsey St.

Fayetteville, North Carolina

910-630-7004

Open by appointment

Built about 1830 and restored in 1986, it features exhibits, paintings, sculpture and mixed-media works by Methodist College art faculty and students.

Museum of the Cape Fear Historical Complex

801 Arsenal Ave.

Fayetteville, North Carolina

910-486-1330

Hours: Tues.-Sat. 10am-5pm, Sun. 12pm-5pm

Admission Free

Combining three resources in one setting, the complex features a modern museum building, the 1897 Poe House and the remains of the Fayetteville Arsenal. The museum and arsenal site are available for self-guided tours. Visitors receive guided tours of the 1897 Poe House upon arrival (up to 20- minute delay if tour is underway; last tour 4pm daily

Military Sites & Activities

Fayetteville is home to Fort Bragg and Pope Air Force Base which comprise two of the world’s largest military installations. There is a wide selection of things to see and do on and around the bases. Some involve an additional cost,, and availability for some is limited due to scheduling.

Fort Bragg

Fort Bragg, North Carolina

910-396-5401

Tour historical points on Fort Bragg. Packets for self-guided tours are available through the XVIII Airborne Corps GS

The 82nd Airborne Division War Memorial Museum

Ardennes and Gela Sts.

Fayetteville, North Carolina

910-432-3443

Hours: Tue.-Sat. 10am-4:30pm, Sun. 11:30am-4pm, federal holidays 10am-4:30pm; closed Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day.

Admission Free

The museum houses over 3,000 artifacts from World War I through Operation Desert Storm. Weapons, helmets, uniforms, glider, photographs, aircraft, parachutes and other items are on display. Film shown each hour. Outdoor equipment displays.

The JFK Special Warfare Museum

Bldg. D-2502, Ardennes and Marion Sts.

Fayetteville, North Carolina

910-432-4272 or 910-432-1533

Hours: Tues.-Sun. 11:00am-4pm. Closed federal holidays except Memorial Day, Labor Day, Veterans Day and the 4th of July.

Admission Free

Providing a behind-the-scenes look at unconventional warfare, the museum houses weapons, military art and international cultural items. The emphasis is on Special Operations units from WWII to present day

The JFK Hall of Heroes

Ardennes St.

Fayetteville, North Carolina

Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8am-5pm. Sign in at desk Sat.-Sun.

The JFK Hall of Heroes honors 19 Special Forces, three Rangers and 10 Indian Scout Medal of Honor recipients as well as three Australian Army Training Team (assigned to 5th SFGA in Vietnam) Victoria Cross recipients.

Iron Mike Statue

Randolph and Armistead Sts.

Fayetteville, North Carolina

Admission Free

Monument dedicated to the Airborne Trooper known as Iron Mike.

Pope Air Force Base

Public Affairs Office

910-394-4183

Tour Pope Air Force Base Flight Line.

View Pope AFB Aircraft Static Displays & C-130 Simulator.

Visit 41st Airlift Squadron Life Support Demonstration.

Tour the Fire Station

Fishing

Fresh water fishing for large-mouth bass, crappie, blue gill and perch is popular throughout the area. Please call for information about fishing permits, boat motor restrictions and special regulations.

Cape Fear River

1122 Person St.

910-868-5003

Boats can access the Cape Fear River at the N.C. Wildlife Ramp, at the junction of US 301 & Old NC 87. 485-3161. Or utilize the ramp at Riverside Sports Center.

Fort Bragg

910-396-7506

Thirteen lakes are open to the public. Lakes over 20 acres include Big Muddy Lake (71 acres), Little Muddy Lake (25 acres), McArthur Lake (45 acres) and Mott Lake (96 acres).

Glenville Lake in Mazarick Park

1368 Belvedere Ave.

910-433-1575

Daily 7am-dusk.

Hope Mills Lake

Main St., Hope Mills

910-424-4500

An 88-acre lake

Lake Rim

Old Raeford Rd.

910-868-5003

Features two public fishing piers and boat ramp.

Hiking

Clark Park Nature Center

631 Sherman Dr.

Fayetteville, North Carolina

910-433-1579

Hours: Mon.-Sat. 8am-4:30pm, Sun. 1-4:30pm.

Admission Free

Nestled on the banks of the Cape Fear River, Clark Park is a natural woodland area with hiking trails, a campground and a Nature Center featuring seasonal displays and exhibits of North Carolina wildlife, plants, geology and more.

Pauline Longest Nature Trails

5400 Ramsey St.

Fayetteville, North Carolina

910-630-7163

Call for additional information

Admission Free

The trails are located at Methodist College and offer views of the Cape Fear River, a waterfall, plants and wild flowers unique to the Cape Fear region.

Horseback Riding

Fort Bragg Riding Stables

Reilly Rd. and Butner Rd.

Fayetteville, North Carolina

910-396-4510

Hours: Thur.-Mon. (summer 9am-5pm, winter 9am-4pm).

Open to the public, offering open riding, pony rides, riding lessons, trail rides and hay rides.

Parks

Arnette Park

2165 Wilmington Hwy.

Fayetteville, North Carolina

910-485-3161

Hours: 9am-9pm (daylight saving time); Mon.-Sun. 9am-5pm (standard time).

Admission Charged

Features an 18-hole Frisbee golf course; picnic areas; nature trails; football, soccer, and softball fields; tennis courts; children’s play areas; horseshoe pits; and a sand-volleyball court.

Cross Creek Park

Green St.

Fayetteville, North Carolina

910-433-1547

Call for additional information

Admission Free

Features a magnificent central fountain, flower garden and statue of the Marquis de Lafayette.

Honeycutt Park

Fort Bragg Rd. at 352 Devers St.

Fayetteville, North Carolina

910-433-1568

Call for additional information

Admission Free

Includes a quarter-mile walking trail, children’s play area, picnic area, three baseball fields and a recreation center.

Mazarick Park

1368 Belvedere Ave.

Fayetteville, North Carolina

910-433-1547

Call for additional information

Some fees apply

Offers picnic areas, fishing in Glenville Lake, rowboat rentals, fitness trails, tennis courts, a baseball field and children’s play areas.

Rowan Park

W. Rowan St.

Fayetteville, North Carolina

910-433-1547

Call for additional information

Admission Free

Features picnic areas, playground and tennis courts, as well as a bandshell which hosts many community events and entertainment during the year.

Skating

Cleland Multipurpose Sports Complex

Reilly Rd.

Fort Bragg, North Carolina

910-396-5127

Hours: Mon., Wed.& Fri. – 11:30 am to 1:30 pm; Tues. – 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm; Fri. – 7:30 pm to 10:00 pm; Sat. – 3:00 pm to 5:30 pm & 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm; Sun. – 2:30 pm to 5:00 pm;
Admission Charged

Open for public ice skating

D- Family Fun Attractions:
The Climbing Place

436 W. Russell Street

Fayetteville, North Carolina

910-486-9638

Hours: Mon.-Sat. 10am-11pm, Sun. 12:30pm-8:30pm.

Admission Charged

Climb roofs, corners, cracks, arches, slab, aretes and lead routes with a professionally-trained staff at this indoor climbing center and retail store.

Line Drive Batting Cages

Omni Plaza, 3701 Sycamore Dairy Rd.

Fayetteville, North Carolina

910-487-1477

Hours: Sun.-Fri. 11am-10pm, Sat. 11am-11pm. Closed Christmas Day and Easter.

Admission Charged

Featuring softball, baseball and fast-pitch softball cages.

Mindboggle

Cross Creek Mall

Fayetteville, North Carolina

910-867-8075

Hours: Mon.-Thur. 10am-11pm, Fri.-Sat. 10am-midnight, Sun. noon-8pm.

Arcade featuring more than 40 video games.

Mountasia Golf & Games

Omni Plaza, 3701 Sycamore Dairy Rd.

Fayetteville, North Carolina

910-487-6000

Open 7 days a week; hours vary by season.

Admission Charged

Featuring 36 holes of miniature golf and a small game room.

Fascinate-U Children’s Museum

116 Green St.

Fayetteville, North Carolina

910-433-1573 or 910-829-9171

Hours: Tues., Thurs. & Fri. 9am-5pm, Wed. 9am-7pm (Free 1-7pm), Sat. 10am-5pm., Sun. 12pm-5pm.

Admission Charged

Hands-on exhibits where children can explore their world through creative role-playing and interaction. Exhibits include City Bank, Gro-Right Grocery, Fayetteville News and many more!

Fun Fun Fun

Omni Plaza, 3729 Sycamore Dairy Rd.

Fayetteville, North Carolina

910-864-1307

Hours: 10am-10pm, 365 days per year

One of the largest family amusement centers in N.C. featuring more than 125 games and rides. Six lighted, hard courts

Water Parks

Fantasy Lake

5869 Permastone Lake Rd.,

Hope Mills, North Carolina

910-424-9999

Open Memorial Day through Labor Day weekends.

Admission Charged

A complete water park featuring water slides, paddle boats, trapeze swings, picnic areas with grills, video arcade and sandy beaches.

Lake Pines

1129 Lake Pines Dr. off Murchison Rd.

Fayetteville, North Carolina

Open Memorial Day through Labor Day weekends, 10am-7pm daily.

Admission Charged

This two-acre spring-fed lake features a sandy beach, picnic area, two volleyball courts, tennis court, two horseshoe courts, diving boards and slides.

Smith Lake Recreation Area

Smith Lake Rd.

Fort Bragg, North Carolina

910-396-5979

Open May-Oct. 9am-7pm. Bike trails, camping and paintball open all year.

Admission Charged

Enjoy swimming, cable water-skiing, sandy beaches, paintball games, mountain bike trails, playgrounds, picnic areas, volleyball and basketball courts, paddleboats and a water ski pro shop.

Sports Center

5951 Cliffdale Rd.

Fayetteville, North Carolina

910-864-3303

Call for days and hours of operation

Admission Charged

Indoor swimming pool open to the public

Waldo’s Beach

Waldo’s Beach Rd.

Fayetteville, North Carolina

910-423-8701

Open Memorial Day through Labor Day weekends. 10am-7pm.

Admission Charged

Enjoy beaches, picnic areas, paddleboat and canoe rentals, fishing, swimming pools and more.

Historic Sites

oric Places.

The Climbing Place

436 W. Russell St.

Fayetteville, North Carolina

910-486-9638.

Admission Charged

Hours: Mon.-Sat. 10am-11pm, Sun. 12:30pm-8:30pm.

Climb roofs, corners, cracks, arches, slab, aretes and lead routes with a professionally-trained staff at this indoor climbing center and retail store.

Fun Fun Fun

Omni Plaza, 3729 Sycamore Dairy Rd.

Fayetteville, North Carolina

910-864-1307

Hours: 10am-10pm, 365 days per year

One of the largest family amusement centers in N.C. featuring more than 125 games and rides.

Jambbas Ranch

Tabor Church Rd.

Fayetteville, North Carolina

910-484-2798 or 910-484-4808

Hours: Mon.-Sat. 9:30am-5pm, Sun. 1pm-5pm. – Oct.-Mar.; April – Sept. open ’til 6pm.

Admission Charged

See animals in a natural habitat including buffalo, llamas, deer, elk, Watusi cows, sheep, ducks and peacocks.

Cape Fear Regional Theatre

1209 Hay St.

Fayetteville, North Carolina

910-323-4233

Call for schedule

Admission Charged

For over 40 years, this award-winning theater has been delighting audiences with elaborate musicals, comedies and classic dramas, off-Broadway productions and children’s favorites — often featuring well-known stars of stage and screen.

Airborne and Special Operations Museum

100 Bragg Boulevard (at intersection of Hay Street)

Fayetteville, North Carolina

910-483-3003

Hours: Tues.-Sat. 10am-5pm, Sun. noon-5pm; Closed Mondays; Open Federal Holiday Mondays.

Admission Charged

One of the area’s premier attractions, this state-of-the-art educational facility houses exhibits and programs that highlight the honor, courage, duty, and heroic feats of this unique sector of our armed forces from its inception in 1940 to present-day operations. The facility is part of the Army museum system. Highlights include:

59,000 sq. ft. building with 23,000 sq. ft. main exhibit hall

240-seat large-screen theater featuring a specially-produced movie showing these forces in action

24-seat simulator that allows riders to “experience” a helicopter attack, parachute jump and off-road pursuit

Vivid life-size dioramas

Interactive displays

Rare artifacts

Memorial Garden, parade area and unit memorials on 6.5 acre site

Gift shop

The 82nd Airborne Division War Memorial Museum

Ardennes and Gela Streets

Fayetteville, North Carolina

910-432-3443

Hours: Tue.-Sat. 10am-4:30pm, Sun. 11:30am-4pm, federal holidays 10am-4:30pm; closed Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day.

Admission Free

The museum houses over 3,000 artifacts from World War I through Operation Desert Storm. Weapons, helmets, uniforms, glider, photographs, aircraft, parachutes and other items are on display. Film shown each hour. Outdoor equipment displays.

The JFK Hall of Heroes

Ardennes St.

Fayetteville, North Carolina

The JFK Hall of Heroes honors 19 Special Forces, three Rangers and 10 Indian Scout Medal of Honor recipients as well as three Australian Army Training Team (assigned to 5th SFGA in Vietnam) Victoria Cross recipients.

Lakeview Park Fishing Pier

3775 Waldo’s Beach Road

Fayetteville, North Carolina

910-424-4814

Admission Charged

Call for days and hours of operation

Features 500-ft. fishing pier.

Fayetteville Rose Garden

Hull Road

Fayetteville, North Carolina

910-678-8228

Bloom time: Mar.-Oct.

Admission Free

This beautiful garden, located on the campus of Fayetteville Technical Community College, features a wide variety of roses.

Arnette Park

2165 Wilmington Hwy.

Fayetteville, North Carolina

910-485-3161

Hours: -9pm (daylight saving time); Mon.-Sun. 9am-5pm (standard time).

Admission Charged

Features an 18-hole Frisbee golf course; picnic areas; nature trails; football, soccer, and softball fields; tennis courts; children’s play areas; horseshoe pits; and a sand-volleyball court.

Cleland Multipurpose Sports Complex

Reilly Rd.

Fort Bragg, North Carolina

910-396-5127

Hours: Mon., Wed.& Fri. – 11:30 am to 1:30 pm; Tues. – 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm; Fri. – 7:30 pm to 10:00 pm; Sat. – 3:00 pm to 5:30 pm & 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm; Sun. – 2:30 pm to 5:00 pm;
Admission Charged

Smith Lake Recreation Area

Smith Lake Rd.

Fort Bragg, North Carolina

910-396-5979

Open May-Oct. 9am-7pm. Bike trails, camping and paintball open all year.

Admission Charged

Enjoy swimming, cable water-skiing, sandy beaches, paintball games, mountain bike trails, playgrounds, picnic areas, volleyball and basketball courts, paddleboats and a water ski pro shop.

E- Events & Entertainment:
Annual Events

April

USA Climbing

The Climbing Place

910-486-9638

Local competition leading up to the National Climbing competition. All ages: indoor rock climbing.

Fayetteville Dogwood Festival

In and around downtown Fayetteville

910-323-1934.

This annual festival includes approximately 30 events that take place downtown and around town. The street fair includes arts and crafts vendors, food booths, and live entertainment on several stages as well as a Midway and a festival especially for for children, which is known as KidStuff. Opening with a beach music concert, the event cherished as “Fayetteville’s Favorite Festival” begins on the 4th Friday of each April.

Black River Festival

Rhodes Pond (Highway 301 North)

910-980-5593

Rural Arts & Bluegrass Festival located beside Rhodes Pond and Black River. Fishing events will also be held.

September

Remax Intl World Long Drive Competition Final

Carver’s Falls Golf Range & Pro Shop

910-488-4481

The Remax World Long Drive Championship is the premier grass-roots golf event in the world and the local competition gives an opportunity to all ages to become the next world champion. Don’t miss you chance!

Sandhills Sankota Festival

Mendoza Park in Spring Lake

910-497-7657

The festival celebrate rural African American heritage and features the Miss Sankofa Queen pageant, gospel, Blues & Jazz Musicians, Arts & Crafts, food & Clothing Vendors, educational exhibits, and a the best variety entertainment in the Sandhills.

Greek Festival

St. Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Church

910-484-2010

This festival is usually held in September.

International Folk Festival

Hay Street, Downtown Fayetteville

910-323-1776

Over 30 nations will celebrate the diversity of the region with food, costumes and the parade of nations

Fayetteville After Five

Fayetteville Museum of Art

910-485-5121

Bring the entire family to Fayetteville Museum of Art for music, food & Fun.

October

Free Day at the Garden

Cape Fear Botanical Garden

910-486-0221

Come stroll through 85 acres over looking Cross Creek and the Cape Fear River.

Haunted Hayride

Arnette Park

910-321-6506

Join us for a scenic hayride through Arnette Park and a brief stop at our “haunted house” The Marlowe Mansion.

Historic Hauntings: A Ghastly Ghost Tour

Downtown Fayetteville

910-486-0739

This annual special event features “ghostly” re-enactors and story tellers highlighting the history of Fayetteville and telling some of the spookier legends from Fayetteville’s history. The special hayrides depart every half-hour starting at 6pm.

Annual Pet Walk & Howl-O-Ween Festival

Mazarick Park

910-988-0990

There will be a Pet Walk, obedience competitions, Frisbee contest, a photo contest (so cats and other non canines are not left out!) and a pet and human costume contest. Also, the annual Friends for Life Tunnel Race will be held and there will be a “No-Fleas” Market for new and used pet items.

December

The Singing Christmas Tree

Snyder Memorial Baptist Church

910-484-3191

A Fayetteville tradition for 25 years, this production features 200 singers, 2 hand bell choirs and a 40 piece orchestra.

Christmas Tour of Homes

Various Homes

910-483-6009

Tour five lovely homes decorated festively for the Christmas season.

Arts and Entertainment

The Crown Center

1960 Coliseum Dr.

Fayetteville, North Carolina

910-323-5088

Call for additional information

Concerts, sporting events, family shows and theater productions are offered year-round. It includes a 13,500-seat Crown Coliseum, 60,000 sq. ft. Expo Center, 11,200 sq. ft. Pre-function Area and Ballroom, 5,300-seat Arena and a 2,430-seat Auditorium.

Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra

5400 Ramsey St.

Fayetteville, North Carolina

910-433-4690

Call for schedule

Admission Charged

The local symphony performs several concerts a year. Reeves Auditorium, Methodist College.

North Carolina Symphony

Reeves Auditorium, Methodist College. 5400 Ramsey St.

Fayetteville, North Carolina

910-868-3213

Call for schedule

Admission Charged

Based in Raleigh, the North Carolina Symphony performs several concerts in Fayetteville each year featuring guest artists.

Theatre

Cameo Theatre

225 Hay St.

Fayetteville, North Carolina

910-486-6633

Open 7 nights a week, call for schedule

Admission Charged

Restored to 1920’s splendor, this intimate downtown theater shows classic, independent and foreign films. Open for just two and one half years, the CAMEO Art House Theatre was recognized nationally in the official program book of the Sundance Film Festival. In an article titled “Beyond the Maddening Multiplex”, Fayetteville’s CAMEO was pictured along with just four other theatres from around the country. The CAMEO was selected for its commitment and quality.

Cape Fear Regional Theatre

1209 Hay St.

Fayetteville, North Carolina

910-323-4233

Call for schedule

Admission Charged

For over 40 years, this award-winning theater has been delighting audiences with elaborate musicals, comedies and classic dramas, off-Broadway productions and children’s favorites — often featuring well-known stars of stage and screen.

Fayetteville State University Theatre Program

1200 Murchison Rd.

Fayetteville, North Carolina

910-486-1006 or 910-486-1571

Call for schedule

Admission Charged

The theater produces three plays a year featuring the works of African-American and other playwrights.

Gilbert Theater

Fayetteville, North Carolina

910-678-7186

Call for Schedule

Admission Charged

A non-profit theater with a volunteer staff dedicated to providing contemporary, socially relevant, and entertaining theater as well as the classics, and original works by local playwrights.

Methodist College Monarch Theatre

5400 Ramsey St.

Fayetteville, North Carolina

910-630-7000

Call for schedule

Admission Charged

The theater presents a variety of productions year-round.

Stage Door Theatre

934 Cambridge St.

Fayetteville, North Carolina

910-322-2873

Call for schedule

Admission Charged

Features improvisational comedy

Every Friday and Saturday night.

Several scripted performances are produced each year.

Sports

Baseball

J.P. Riddle Stadium. 2823 Legion Rd.

Fayetteville, North Carolina

910-426-5900

Call for schedule

Admission Charged

Fayetteville Swamp Dogs season runs from early June through the middle of August

Basketball

The Fayetteville Patriots

At the Crown Coliseum

Fayetteville, North Carolina

910-213-1000

The season runs from November through March. Tickets

Admission Charged

A member of the National Basketball Development league, Come and watch the future of the NBA.

Arena Football

The Cape Fear Wildcats

At the Crown Coliseum

Fayetteville, North Carolina

910-222-WILD

The season runs from March through August

Admission Charged

Don’t miss one minute of the action when they play. It’s a 50-yard indoor war!

Hockey

The Cape Fear FireAntz

At the Crown Coliseum

Fayetteville, North Carolina

910-321-0123

The season runs from October through March.

Admission Charged

It’s action on ice as the skate.

Auto Racing

Fayetteville Motor Sports Park

Doc Bennett Rd.

Fayetteville, North Carolina

910-484-3677

Open: Mar-Oct, Sunday 10 am, sanctioned by the International Hot Rod Association. April -Sept., Sat. nights, 7 pm. Streetcar Madness, Fri. nights 5-10 pm.

The drag strip features Professional E.T. and Street E.T. drag racing on a 1/4 mile track with a 200-foot concrete starting line. The speedway features stock car dirt-track racing on an oval .4-mile clay track

Golf

ReMax World Long Drive Championship

910-488-4481

Call for exact date and time

Each year Carvers Falls Golf Range & Pro Shop hosts state qualifying rounds for the Championship.

Tennis

Arnette Park

2721 Wilmington Hwy.

Fayetteville, North Carolina

910-485-3161

Call for additional information

Admission Free

Eight hard courts (four lighted)

Fort Bragg Tennis Club

Normandy Dr., Bldg. #1-5426,

Fort Bragg, North Carolina

910-436-1171

Call for hours of operation

Admission Charged

Six lighted, hard courts. Open to civilians.

Massey Hill Park

1612 Camden Rd.

Fayetteville, North Carolina

910-433-1547

Call for additional information

Admission Free

Two lighted, hard courts

Mazarick Park Tennis Center

1612 Belvedere Ave.

Fayetteville, North Carolina

910-433-1576

Call for additional information

Admission Free

Eight lighted, hard courts

Durham, North Carolina

A- Overview:
Close your eyes and imagine a city set among acres of hardwood and evergreen forests, hills and dales, serene lakes, meandering rivers and streams, and you will have an accurate picture of Durham, North Carolina. Durham is the fourth largest city in the state, and is located about halfway between the Blue Ridge Mountains and the pristine beaches of North Carolina’s Outer Banks. Durham is a colorful, creative, and entrepreneurial community and is the proud home of Research Triangle Park, Duke, and North Carolina universities. Visitors have found this congenial town to be filled with an engaging spirit where diverse and passionate people are open and welcoming. Both residents and visitors enjoy the host of cultural, historical, educational, and natural amenities that Durham has to offer.

Durham has also been called the City of Medicine for its outstanding hospitals, major national and multinational health care companies, cutting-edge research companies, specialty clinics, nationally recognized medical teaching facilities, and acclaimed centers for weight management.

Although each is separate and distinct, Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill are the three main cities that make up the family of communities sometimes referred to as the Research Triangle or the Triangle Region. Research Triangle Park (RTP) carved from Durham pinelands in 1959 as a special Durham County tax district for research and production, is encompassed on three sides by the City of Durham and a mere four miles from downtown Durham. The Triangle now refers to two metropolitan statistical areas (a four county MSA with the city of Durham at its core, and another around Raleigh-Cary), a 13-county state planning region, and other regional cooperatives

If you are wondering what to do during your trip to Durham, visiting adults and children enjoy the highly acclaimed, entirely hands-on Museum of Life and Science. Durham has many historic sites from which to choose, such as Bennett Place (where the Civil War ended) or Stagville (the largest plantation in North Carolina with the original big house, slave quarters, and a monumental barn still standing). Explore the miles of nature trails along the Eno River, or take a restful stroll through the Sarah P. Duke Gardens. At night, you may want to enjoy a live performance at Duke University or at the beautifully restored Carolina Theatre in downtown Durham.

No trip to Durham would be complete without visiting Duke University. The highlight of this showplace is the Duke Chapel, reminiscent of England’s Canterbury Cathedral. The bell tower rises 210 feet and houses a 50-bell carillon that rings out at the end of each workday and on Sunday. A half-million-dollar Flentrop organ with more than 5,000 pipes is in a special oak gallery, and renowned organists perform public recitals on the first Sunday of each month. During a visit to the West Campus, take a look at Cameron Indoor Stadium, the home of the Duke Blue Devils basketball team since 1935.

Thousands of locals and tourists fill the stands each summer as the Durham Bulls play a full season in the Class AAA International League as an affiliate of the Tampa Bay Devil Rays. The Bulls shot to fame (and have been credited with rejuvenating minor league baseball ) on the shoulders of Kevin Costner catching for rookie pitcher Tim Robbins in the 1988 movie “Bull Durham”. While the Bulls no longer play in Historic Durham Athletic Park where the film was actually shot, the park is still standing and hosts numerous events and festivals each year. In 1995, the Bulls moved from the wonderful old-time ballpark to a state-of-the-art stadium about a mile south in downtown Durham.

Throughout the year, Durham is jumping with festivals and events. From free music concerts and chili cook-offs to art exhibits and world class film festivals, visitors to the Durham area will find both their days and nights filled with stimulating entertainment.

B- City Information:
Population: 203,778

Elevation: 394 feet

Area: 94.6 square miles

Location: Twenty-three miles from the Virginia border, Durham is in the northeast corner of North Carolina’s central piedmont, a geographic foothills region lying between mountains and coastal plains. Durham is 140 miles from the Appalachian highlands and 130 miles from the coast.

Nearest city: Raleigh, NC; 21.5 miles

Time Zone: Eastern Standard Time and observes daylight saving time from April to October.

Local Seasons: Durham has a moderate climate during spring, fall and winter, but summers are hot and humid. Winter temperatures are chilly but temperate, ranging from highs in the low 50s F to lows in the upper 20s-mid-30s F, with snowfall rare. Spring and fall days are perfect sweater-weather days, with daytime temperatures usually in the low to mid-70s F, falling at night into the 50s F. Summer days are often in the upper 80s and low 90s F with high humidity.

Weather:

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

Average temp. (°F)
38.6
41.6
49.7
58.6
67.0
75.0
79.2
77.2
70.7
59.0
49.8
41.7

High temperature (°F)
49.3
53.5
62.1
71.3
78.6
85.1
88.7
86.9
81.1
71.4
62.1
52.8

Low temperature (°F)
27.9
29.7
37.2
45.8
55.4
64.9
69.6
67.5
60.2
46.6
37.6
30.6

Precipitation (in)
4.4
3.7
4.6
3.3
4.5
3.9
4.0
4.3
4.4
3.7
3.4
3.4

Climate:

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

Days with precip.
10
10
10
9
10
10
11
10
8
7
8
9

Wind speed (mph)
8.2
8.6
9.3
8.8
7.7
7.0
6.7
6.3
6.7
6.6
7.1
7.7

Morning humidity (%)
80
78
80
81
85
87
89
91
92
90
85
81

Afternoon humidity (%)
55
52
49
46
54
56
58
59
59
53
52
55

Sunshine (%)
52
56
60
63
59
60
60
58
58
60
57
53

Days clear of clouds
9
9
9
10
8
8
7
7
10
13
11
10

Partly cloudy days
7
6
7
9
10
12
12
12
9
7
7
7

Cloudy days
15
14
14
11
13
11
12
11
11
11
11
14

Snowfall (in)
2.8
2.5
1.3
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.1
0.8

Getting around:

By Bus

Public transportation is offered by DATA (Durham Area Transit Authority).
919-687-7055.

By Car

The Triangle area is a transportation hub; I-85 comes in from the Virginia/Washington D.C. area bringing traffic from I-95. I-40 comes up from the Fayetteville/Wilmington area to the south and skirts Raleigh before heading northwest to Greensboro, Winston-Salem, and Charlotte.

Getting there:

By Car

Reached from the east via U.S. 70 and I-40 to N.C. 147, from the north via I-85, from the west via I-40/85 to I-85, and from the south via U.S. 15/501 joining I-40 to N.C. 147.

By Train

Amtrak, 800-USA-RAIL, has a station on Pettegrew Street, 919-872-7245.

By Plane

Raleigh-Durham International Airport

1600 Terminal Blvd., Morrisville

919-840-2123

Charlotte Douglas International Airport
5501 Josh Birmingham Parkway, Charlotte

704-359-4000

National Holidays:

New Year’s Day: Jan. 1

Martin Luther King, Jr., Day: 3rd Mon. in Jan.

President’s Day: 3rd Mon. in Feb.

Memorial Day: Last Mon. in May

Independence Day: July 4

Labor Day: 1st Mon. in Sept.

Thanksgiving Day: 4th Thurs. in Nov.

Christmas Eve and Christmas Day: Dec. 24 and 25

New Year’s Eve: Dec. 31

C- Attractions/Things To Do:
Bennett Place State Historic Site

4409 Bennett Memorial Road.

919-383-4345

Open Monday through Friday from 9 – 5

Perhaps the official end of the Civil War was General Lee’s surrender at Appomattox, but the big surrender was at the Bennett farmstead where Confederate General Joseph E. Johnston surrendered to Union General William T. Sherman 17 days after Lee’s Appomattox surrender.
Here you can view the reconstructed farmhouse and outbuildings and visit the interpretive center and museum.

Duke Homestead State Historic Site

2828 Duke Homestead Road

Durham, North Carolina

919-477-5498

919-489-3364

Hours: Mon-Fri 9am-5pm. Hours may vary.

Admission Free

As a Confederate soldier (circa mid-1800’s), Duke learned about the Union soldiers’ love of Bright Leaf tobacco, and he returned home to begin the enterprise that would one day establish North Carolina as the heart of a worldwide tobacco empire. National Historic Landmark of the Duke family’s home, this historic site includes authentic tobacco barns and original factories, as well as a museum filled with cigarette manufacturing and marketing memorabilia. Living history demonstrations of life on a typical yeoman farm in the 1800’s are regularly performed

Rosenzweig Gallery

2115 Cornwallis Road

Durham, NC 27705,

Judea Reform Congregation Building, 919-932-1844, Dedicated to presenting exhibits of Jewish religious and creative arts and crafts, this gallery features traveling exhibits of highly acclaimed Israeli and regional artists, as well as original programs of Judaica and religious prints and books from the Rosenzweig Collection.

Sarah P. Duke Gardens

418 Anderson Street

919-684-3698

Open daily from 8am to dusk.

Admission Free

55 acres of landscaped and wooded gardens featuring over 2,000 kinds of plants. Of special interest is their 20-acre Culberson Asiatic Arboretum. About 550 species and cultivars of Asian plants present a living example of the close relationship between the flora of the Eastern U.S. and the flora of eastern Asia. Five miles of pathways with landscaped bridges, courts, lawns, ponds and waterfalls help create a very enjoyable experience for the visitor. Docent-led tours are also available by advance arrangement.

West Point on the Eno

5101 North Roxboro Road,

Durham, NC 27701

919-471-1623

Located along a two mile stretch on the scenic Eno River, this 388 acre city park offers a variety of recreational activities such as picnicking, hiking, canoeing, and rafting. An amphitheater is also inside the park, as well as many historic buildings such as a reconstructed 1778 working gristmill, the McCown-Mangum House built in the 1880s, the Hugh Manhum Museum of Photography, and a recreation of a 19th century blacksmith shop

Museum of Life and Science

433 Murray Avenue just beyond the State Museum of Life and Science and adjacent to the NC Museum of Life and Science.

919-220-5429

Family Fun magazine wrote that the NC Museum of Life and Science is among the top four family-friendly museums in the Southeast.

This 78-acre, 50,000 square foot regional science-technology campus offers user-friendly learning experiences and a sense of discovery.

Includes renowned Magic Wings Butterfly House, new interactive outdoor exhibit Catch the Wind, Bayer CropScience Insectarium, Ellerbee Creek Railway, weather and aerospace, daily science shows and ever-changing traveling hands-on exhibits.

Magic Wings Butterfly House and Bayer Crop Science Insectarium

433 Murray Avenue

Durham, NC

919-220-5429

The Butterfly House is just beyond the State Museum of Life and Science and adjacent to the NC Museum of Life and Science.

This 3-story, tropical conservatory, largest museum butterfly house east of the Mississippi, features over 1,000 tropical butterflies in free flight including many rare species from Asia, Africa, and Central and South America. Butterflies are drawn to certain plants and blooms. This butterfly-friendly vegetation is available here with beds of exotic flowers, tropical fruit trees and a flowering meadow in a rainforest area (that even includes a stream garden).
The Insectarium presently has more than 25 live exotic and native species of insects and insect predators plus an extensive collection of mounted specimens.

Duke University Chapel

Chapel Drive

Duke University West Campus

919-684-2572

The Chapel is normally open to tourists daily from 8a to 5p. Tourists are also invited to attend Sunday service at 11am.
Durham’s most popular tourist attraction, the Duke University Chapel (built in 1930) is a prime example of English-Gothic architecture and represents one of the last great collegiate Gothic projects in the United States. It features the only significant Æolian Organ built for a church. This 4-manual, 5,200 pipe instrument is being restored to its original condition and has a pleasant tone. In the 210-foot tower of the chapel is installed a 50-bell carillon; the bells range up to 5 tons in size. The beautiful, stained-glass windows accent the aesthetic impact of the chapel.
The Inter-denominational chapel serves the university community and holds Sunday morning worship at 11am to which all are welcome. During the fall and spring semesters, there are numerous recitals and concerts by the university organists and guest performers. The carillonneur gives a recital at 5pm weekdays, and before and after the Sunday worship service.

Historic Stagsville (circa 1787)

5825 Old Oxford Highway

Durham, NC 27722,

919-620-0120

One of the largest pre-Civil War plantations, this historic plantation offers visitors a glimpse into the past, particularly of the African American slaves who worked the plantation. Two beautifully restored historic buildings and an old barn are on site and self guided tours of the extensive grounds are available, as well as an array of learning opportunities

Patterson’s Mill Country Store

5109 Farrington Road

Durham, NC 2751

919-493-8149

An authentic turn-of-the-century country store and doctor’s office/pharmacy that features relics from the Patterson’s Mill community, as well as extensive pharmaceutical exhibits and tobacco paraphernalia.

St. Joseph’s AME Church (circa 1869)

804 Old Fayetteville Street

Durham, NC 27412

919-683-1709

One of the first autonomous African-American churches in America, this beautiful church was converted into a performance hall in 2001 and features an 1891 brick sanctuary that includes a stained glass portrait of Washington Duke.

D- Family Fun Attractions:
Funwerks

4350 Garrett Road

Durham, NC 27701

919-401-6301

This amusement venue offers an array of activities for families to enjoy including a miniature golf course, go-carts, bumper boats, batting cages, paintball, and video games.

Magic Wings Butterfly House and Bayer Crop Science Insectarium

433 Murray Avenue

Durham, NC

919-220-5429

The Butterfly House is just beyond the State Museum of Life and Science and adjacent to the NC Museum of Life and Science.

This 3-story, tropical conservatory, largest museum butterfly house east of the Mississippi, features over 1,000 tropical butterflies in free flight including many rare species from Asia, Africa, and Central and South America. Butterflies are drawn to certain plants and blooms. This butterfly-friendly vegetation is available here with beds of exotic flowers, tropical fruit trees and a flowering meadow in a rainforest area (that even includes a stream garden).
The Insectarium presently has more than 25 live exotic and native species of insects and insect predators plus an extensive collection of mounted specimens.

Museum of Life and Science

433 Murray Avenue just beyond the State Museum of Life and Science and adjacent to the NC Museum of Life and Science.

919-220-5429

Family Fun magazine wrote that the NC Museum of Life and Science is among the top four family-friendly museums in the Southeast.

This 78-acre, 50,000 square foot regional science-technology campus offers user-friendly learning experiences and a sense of discovery, which enhances the learning experience.

Patterson’s Mill Country Store

5109 Farrington Road

Durham, NC 2751

919-493-8149

An authentic turn-of-the-century country store and doctor’s office/pharmacy that features relics from the Patterson’s Mill community, as well as extensive pharmaceutical exhibits and tobacco paraphernalia.

Bennett Place State Historic Site

4409 Bennett Memorial Road.

919-383-4345

Open Monday through Friday from 9 – 5

Perhaps the official end of the Civil War was General Lee’s surrender at Appomattox, but the big surrender was at the Bennett farmstead where Confederate General Joseph E. Johnston surrendered to Union General William T. Sherman 17 days after Lee’s Appomattox surrender.
Here you can view the reconstructed farmhouse and outbuildings and visit the interpretive center and museum.

Duke University Chapel

Chapel Drive

Duke University West Campus

919-684-2572

The Chapel is normally open to tourists daily from 8a to 5p. Tourists are also invited to attend Sunday service at 11am.
Durham’s most popular tourist attraction, the Duke University Chapel (built in 1930) is a prime example of English-Gothic architecture and represents one of the last great collegiate Gothic projects in the United States. It features the only significant Æolian Organ built for a church. This 4-manual, 5,200 pipe instrument is being restored to its original condition and has a pleasant tone. In the 210-foot tower of the chapel is installed a 50-bell carillon; the bells range up to 5 tons in size. The beautiful, stained-glass windows accent the aesthetic impact of the chapel.

The Inter-denominational chapel serves the university community and holds Sunday morning worship at 11am to which all are welcome. During the fall and spring semesters, there are numerous recitals and concerts by the university organists and guest performers. The carillonneur gives a recital at 5pm weekdays, and before and after the Sunday worship service.

Sarah P. Duke Gardens

418 Anderson Street

919-684-3698

Open daily from 8am to dusk.

Admission Free

55 acres of landscaped and wooded gardens featuring over 2,000 kinds of plants. Of special interest is their 20-acre Culberson Asiatic Arboretum. About 550 species and cultivars of Asian plants present a living example of the close relationship between the flora of the Eastern U.S. and the flora of eastern Asia. Five miles of pathways with landscaped bridges, courts, lawns, ponds and waterfalls help create a very enjoyable experience for the visitor. Docent-led tours are also available by advance arrangement.

West Point on the Eno

5101 North Roxboro Road,

Durham, NC 27701

919-471-1623

Located along a two mile stretch on the scenic Eno River, this 388 acre city park offers a variety of recreational activities such as picnicking, hiking, canoeing, and rafting. An amphitheater is also inside the park, as well as many historic buildings such as a reconstructed 1778 working gristmill, the McCown-Mangum House built in the 1880s, the Hugh Manhum Museum of Photography, and a recreation of a 19th century blacksmith shop

Wheels Family Fun Park

715 North Hoover Road, Durham, NC 27701

919-598-1944

An enjoyable activity for the whole family can be expected at this full service family entertainment amusement park that features a race course for remote controlled cars, a miniature golf course, a skateboarding park, an indoor playground, an indoor roller skating rink, go-carts, and batting cages

E- Events & Entertainment:
Events

January

Kwanzaa Celebration with the African American Ensemble (formerly KwanzaaFest)

919-683-1709
Durham Armory

Call for date and time.

Admission Free.
A full day of cultural festivities, entertainment, and educational activities, including an African style marketplace, a variety of live poetry readings, dance, music, and children’s activities.

Nevermore Horror and Gothic Film Festival
Carolina Theatre

919-560-3030

Call for date, time and admission charges.
Created in 1999, the Nevermore Horror and Gothic Film Festival is dedicated to screening audience-requested horror flicks as well as brand-new films from around the world.

February

Native American Powwow
North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics

919-416-2730

Call for date, time and admission charges.
Full day of traditional Native American dancing, singing, crafts, food, and socializing.

North Carolina Jewish Film Festival
Carolina Theatre of Durham, Royall Center for the Arts

919-560-3030

Call for date, time and admission charges.
A celebration of Jewish history and culture through internationally acclaimed films and short features from around the globe, including motion pictures direct from theatrical release in Israel.

March

Annual Bike Show – Harley-Davidson
Durham Harley-Davidson, Inc.

919-682-6695

Call for date and time.

Admission Charged.
Events include a chili cook-off, Harley-Davidson motorcycle show, door prizes, and lots of food and fun for the whole family.

Annual Durham Spring Carnival

Durham County Stadium

Admission Charged.
Games, rides, prizes, music, food and entertainment for the entire family.

April

Annual Grady Tate Jazz Festival
B.N. Duke Auditorium, North Carolina Central University Campus
Two nights of Jazz greats featuring the NCCU Jazz Vocal Ensemble, Grady Tate, and various jazz vocalists.

Earth Day Festival and Celebration
Durham Central Park

919-560-4100
The Triangle’s largest Earth Day celebration featuring an eclectic mix of music, educational booths and events.

“Getting a Jump on Easter” Egg Hunt

Durham Central Park, Downtown
919-682-2800

Admission Free.

Features a traditional egg hunt and also educational activities with farmyard and domestic animals.

Bennett Place Living History Civil War Surrender Reenactment
Bennett Place State Historic Site
Reenactment of negotiations and surrender between Generals Sherman and Johnston that ended the Civil War. Occurs bi-annually in odd years.

Full Frame Documentary Film Festival
Carolina Theatre of Durham, Royall Center for the Arts
The only international festival of its kind celebrating strictly the power and artistry of documentary cinema. Formerly Doubletake Documentary Film Festival.

May

May Day Music at Durham Central Park

Durham Central Park, Downtown
919-560-2788

Admission: donation suggested. Children and students free.

Classical Music is performed in the park. Also includes an orchestral instrument petting zoo, cake walk, May pole, instrument-making session, and other activities.

June

Alive After Five Concert Series (summer months)

Durham Bulls Athletic Ball Park

Admission Free.
FREE concerts and outdoor fun for the entire family. Concerts are normally held on the last Thursday of the month. Musical entertainment provided by various artists.

Durham Arts Council’s Edible Arts Festival
Durham Civic Center

Admission Charged.
Sample gourmet creations and signature dishes by Durham’s finest culinary artists and nationally acclaimed chefs.

American Dance Festival
Various locations on Duke University West Campus
The largest and most influential modern dance festival in the world, featuring more than two dozen modern dance companies and hundreds of choreographers, writers, and students participating in classes, seminars, and performances.

Duke Homestead Herb, Garden and Craft Festival
Duke Homestead State Historic Site

Admission Free.
Enjoy this historical outdoor herb festival, which features traditional herbal-use displays and a wide variety of herb and craft vendors. Musical entertainment, guided tours of the Homestead and food are available.

July

Children’s Independence Day Parade & Family Fun Day

Durham Central Park, Corner of Hunt St. and Foster St.
919-682-2800

July 4

Admission Free.

This July 4 event has been expanded to include a family picnic and ice-cream social following the parade. Children decorate their bikes and scooters using patriotic colors and will then follow a police escort around the block. Afterwards, everyone can enjoy a tasty lunch and additional entertainment.

Festival for the Eno
West Point on the Eno City Park

Admission Free.

One of the region’s premier Independence Day celebrations with exhibits, displays, arts, crafts, and live entertainment on the banks of the Eno River to benefit efforts to preserve this beautiful natural area.

Durham Music Festival

Various Downtown Durham locations.
919-560-2730

Call for information.

Admission Charged.

Come out and enjoy the music, artists, exhibits and activities. Past festivals have featured more than 35 live bands!

Bimbe Cultural Arts Festival
Durham Central Park, Downtown

919-560-4965
African-American music and arts festival. One of the oldest cultural festivals in the country and one of the region’s most comprehensive celebrations of music, art and dance, from African and Caribbean to reggae and rap.

August

Bull City Chili Challenge

Durham Central Park

919-682-2800

Call for exact date and time.

Admission Charged.

The Bull City Chili Challenge is an annual event featuring sampling and judging of a wide selection of tasty chili showcasing local restaurants and produce. The area’s first cook-off is sanctioned by the Chili Appreciation Society International! Tasting kits will be sold and you will be able to sample chilies in 5 categories: Vegetarian, Youth, Restaurant, Free Style, and Texas Style. All proceeds will benefit Durham Special Olympics. Also features live music, a raffle and special activities for children.

North Carolina Gay and Lesbian Film Festival
Carolina Theatre of Durham, Royall Center for the Arts

919-560-3030
One of the nation’s premier gay and lesbian film festivals, with more than 100 films screened (including world-premiere showings) and more than 10,000 tickets sold each year.

September

Bull Durham Blues Festival
Historic Durham Athletic Park

919-683-1709
A celebration in the birthplace of the Piedmont Blues, featuring national, regional, and local blues, from the mournful sounds of the Mississippi Delta to the fine finger-picking and ragtime exuberance of the Piedmont Blues.

Durham Arts Council’s Centerfest
Five Points Plaza, Downtown Durham

919-560-2723
One of North Carolina’s oldest and one the Southeast’s largest street-arts fairs. The streets of Downtown Durham come alive with arts, crafts, entertainment, food, and fun.

North Carolina Gay Pride Parade
Duke East Campus and Ninth Street District
The largest lesbian, gay, bisexual, & transgender event in a five-state area, attracting 6,000 festival participants.

World Beer Festival
Historic Durham Athletic Park

500 West Corporation Street

919-530-8160
Featuring more than 300 beer vendors from all over the country as well as local restaurant vendors, family entertainment, and great music by local and regional artists.

October

Broadway at Duke Series
Page Auditorium, Duke West Campus
Since 1968, Broadway at Duke has brought the best of Broadway, off-Broadway, and major national and international repertory companies to Durham.

Oktoberfest
Main Quad, Duke University West Campus

Admission Free.
Oktoberfest is a day-long party on the main quad featuring craft and food vendors as well as a large variety of local artists.

November

Durham Art Guild’s Annual Juried Art Show
Durham Arts Council, Royall Center for the Arts

Admission Charged.
Durham’s more than 100 working artists join with regional artists to compete and display in a variety of media.

December

Christmas by Candlelight at Duke Homestead
Duke Homestead State Historic Site

Call for exact date and time.

Admission Free.
A celebration of an 1870 Christmas with evening candlelight tours of the Homestead featuring period decorations, caroling, hot apple cider, and other goodies.

Light Up Durham
Downtown Durham

Call for exact date and time.

919-687-6561

Admission Free.
Seasonal music, performers, tree lighting, food and fun, including a parade that brings Santa to town.

Wilmington, North Carolina

A- Overview:
Just minutes from the beaches, Wilmington’s picturesque riverfront emerges from the Cape Fear River. Gracing its banks is one of the state’s largest historic districts, numbering approximately 230 blocks. Downtown Wilmington is a place where revitalization has proceeded with honor, dignity and respect, preserving the social and artistic heritage of days gone by. See the historic district’s mansions and landmark buildings via horse-drawn trolley or carriage tour, riverboat cruise, restored trolley car, or take a walking tour given by some of the port city’s most intriguing residents.

Across the river on Eagles Island rests the majestic Battleship North Carolina, a restored World War II memorial. There are also other museums for children, fine art lovers, railroad and history buffs, including North Carolina’s oldest history museum.

Feast upon the Atlantic Ocean’s bounty of fresh seafood, or enjoy a variety of ethnic cuisine and regional specialties, all served with Southern flair and hospitality. Visitors can lose track of time as they browse distinctive specialty and antique shops, clothing boutiques, shopping complexes, pottery outlets, and year-round holiday shops.

At day’s end, relax outdoors and behold nature’s beauty as the sun sinks into the river. Saunter along historic Wilmington’s riverwalk or taste the salty ocean spray as you stroll along the beach. Enjoy an evening at the theatre, a symphony concert, or other exciting nightlife options.

Whatever your pleasure, the visitor to this historic North Carolina town is sure to find what they are looking for at North Carolina’s Cape Fear Coast, a variety vacationland for the discriminating traveler. Visitors find out first-hand why those who live in Wilmington are fond of saying, “It’s always a beautiful day at the Cape Fear Coast.”

The city itself is nestled between North Carolina’s mighty Cape Fear River on the west and the powerful Atlantic Ocean on the east, has long been known as the “Port City of Progress and Pleasure.” Founded in 1739, Wilmington prospered during its early years as a major port and ship-building center. Today the city continues to flourish.

Boasting one of the largest districts listed in the National Register of Historic Places, Wilmington takes pride in its reputation as a leader in preservation efforts. Along the river, a number of Victorian, Georgian, Italianate and antebellum-style homes, buildings and churches have been carefully restored to their original grandeur. Many of these beautiful structures are now used as museums, shopping venues and bed-and-breakfasts.

Downtown Wilmington offers eclectic shopping, vibrant nightlife, theatrical productions, coffeehouses and outstanding restaurants that feature fresh local seafood and regional specialties. Inland, visitors will find excellent golf courses, department stores, parks, entertainment complexes, amusements, plantations, a state university and restaurants galore.

Local attractions and annual events are as diverse as the city itself. Visitors can enjoy more than 45 attractions, including day or evening riverboat cruises, museums showcasing North Carolina artists and history, and a variety of tours of the historic district, nature preserves, or movie studios. Traditional festivals such as the N.C. Azalea Festival and RiverFest, among others, celebrate the area’s arts and culture.

The city of Wilmington has experienced a dramatic and exciting growth. With the influence of the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf Stream, some 45-60 miles offshore, Historic Wilmington enjoys a temperate subtropical climate year-round. It’s no wonder that it is one of the fastest growing East Coast deep-water ports. Summer temperatures are usually in the 80s. Seasons are mild, with an average 212 sunshine days and a mean average temperature of 63.7 degrees Fahrenheit. The average winter temperature is about 50 degrees.

A climate like this affords the lucky visitor to take advantage of many of the sites and attractions available. The Historic Battleship North Carolina allows visitors to come aboard and experience the North Carolina’s “Star Appeal”. Because she is preserved just as she was in World War II, the Battleship North Carolina has been the site for many dramatic documentaries. For those brave souls who are adventurous the Haunted Pub Crawl is a unique adventure. Guests partake in an evening of spirituous adventure on a journey to Wilmington’s most vividly haunted pubs. They can revel in the seamy red-light district of yore & uncover startling truths of life in a violent 18th century port city. From the disreputable obsession of the merry wench Gallus Meg, to the barbarous haunts of a notorious madman, it’s an evening of levity & libations!

For a family outing, be sure to visit Jungle Rapids Family Fun Park. Open seasonally, Jungle Rapids is Wilmington’s coolest place to play and a full day of fun for the entire family. After a full day of activity, visitors often take in a play at Thalian Hall. The Hall is one of the oldest and most beautiful theatres in America. THCPA has been in continuous use since it opened in 1858. Forming the east wing of Wilmington’s magnificent City Hall, the facility hosts over 250 performance events annually.

Whatever the interest of any visitor, this historic, yet modern North Carolina city has something new and interesting for even the most experienced and discriminating traveler.

B- City Information:
Population: 75,838

Elevation: 50 feet above sea level

Land Area: 41.0 square miles

Location: Located in the southeastern portion of North Carolina, just minutes from the Atlantic Ocean

Time Zone: Eastern Time Zone (when it’s noon in Wilmington, it’s 11am in Chicago and 9am in Los Angeles). Wilmington observes Daylight Savings Time from April – October

Weather:

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

Average temp. (°F)
45.8
48.2
54.8
62.5
70.0
76.8
80.9
79.5
74.7
64.5
56.3
48.6

High temperature (°F)
56.3
59.4
66.2
74.1
80.6
86.4
89.9
88.3
84.0
75.5
67.8
59.5

Low temperature (°F)
35.3
37.0
43.4
50.7
59.4
67.2
71.9
70.5
65.4
53.4
44.7
37.6

Precipitation (in)
4.6
3.7
4.2
3.0
4.4
5.3
7.7
7.3
6.9
3.2
3.3
3.8

Climate:

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

Days with precipitation
11
10
10
8
9
10
13
12
10
7
8
9

Wind speed (mph)
9.0
9.6
10.0
10.1
9.1
8.4
7.9
7.3
7.8
7.9
8.1
8.4

Morning humidity (%)
81
80
82
81
84
85
87
90
90
89
85
82

Afternoon humidity (%)
56
52
52
48
55
60
63
64
62
56
53
55

Sunshine (%)
56
59
64
70
67
66
64
62
61
64
63
59

Days clear of clouds
10
9
10
11
8
7
6
7
8
12
12
10

Partly cloudy days
6
6
8
8
11
11
12
12
10
7
7
7

Cloudy days
15
13
14
11
12
12
13
12
12
11
11
14

Snowfall (in)
0.5
0.5
0.4
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.6

Local Seasons:

At any time of year there is something wonderful taking place in this historic and beautiful North Carolina town. With the influence of the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf Stream, some 45-60 miles offshore, Historic Wilmington and North Carolina’s Cape Fear Coast enjoy a temperate subtropical climate year-round. Summer temperatures are usually in the 80s. Seasons are mild, with an average 212 sunshine days and a mean average temperature of 63.7 degrees Fahrenheit. The average winter temperature is about 50 degrees. Summers tend to be busy as tourists come to the area to experience the many attractions in and around Wilmington as well as bask in the sunshine at the nearby beaches. With the daytime temperatures in the high 80’s F and relatively low humidity, it’s the perfect time to work on an enviable tan. Evenings are cool, with the temperature dropping into the 60’s, making it ideal for a casual dinner followed by a walk through the historic downtown area. Spring and fall bring cooler temperatures with the change of seasons. During these periods visitors can take advantage of both indoor and outdoor activities in comfort. Winters are generally mild with just a dusting of snow. It doesn’t usually stay on the ground but while it’s there, it transforms the area into a postcard like effect.

How to Get There:

By Air:

Wilmington International Airport

1740 Airport Blvd.

Wilmington, NC 28405

910-341-4333

Conveniently located to the town, the airport has daily departures and arrivals available with direct flights in major hubs along the East Coast.

Ground Transportation:

Most of the major car rental companies, as well as taxi, limousine, and shuttle services are available at the airport as well as at select locations throughout the town.

By Car:

The major East/West Interstate artery I-40 leads to the Cape Fear Coast, which is located midway between New York & Florida just off I-95 and I-40; also served by Highways 17, 74/76, 117, and 421. Interstate I-95 is 73 miles from Historic Wilmington and North Carolina’s Cape Fear Coast.

By Bus:

Greyhound

201 Harnett St.
Wilmington, NC 28402

910-762-6073

How to Get Around:

The best way to get around is by either personal or rental car. In addition, other local transportation is available:

Front Street Free Trolley

910-343-0106

Greenleaf Carriage & Trolley Co. (Beach Trolley, Pleasure Island)

910-458-1141

National Holidays:

New Year’s Day- Jan. 1

Martin Luther King, Jr., Day- 3rd Mon. in Jan.

President’s Day- 3rd Mon. in Feb.

Memorial Day- last Mon. in May

Independence Day- July 4

Labor Day- 1st Mon. in Sept.

Thanksgiving Day- 4th Thurs. in Nov.

Christmas Eve and Christmas Day- Dec. 24 and 25

New Year’s Eve- Dec. 31

C- Attractions/Things To Do:
Sadgwar Family Home
15 N. 8th Street
Wilmington, NC 28401
910-762-7074

Hours: Call for days and hours of operation

Admission Charged

An African American Heritage site

St. Stephen AME Church
501 Red Cross Street
Wilmington, NC 28401
910-762-9829

Hours: Call for additional information

Admission Free

An African American Heritage site

Haunted Pub Crawl
The Cotton Exchange
321 N. Front Street

Wilmington, NC 28401
910-794-1866

Hours: Open year round, call for additional information

Admission Charged

Partake in an evening of spirituous adventure on a journey to Wilmington’s most vividly haunted pubs. Revel in the seamy red-light district of yore & uncover startling truths of life in a violent 18th century port city. From the disreputable obsession of the merry wench Gallus Meg, to the barbarous haunts of a notorious madman, accompany us on a fun-filled night of levity & libations!

Hollywood South on Location Tours
Historic Downtown Wilmington
Corner of Water & Market Streets

Wilmington, NC 28401
910-763-0288

Hours: Vary by season, call for additional information

Admission Charged

Take a Magic Hour Walking Tour through historic downtown Wilmington, the movie capital of the Southeast. Learn about the “Magic of Making Movies” and “behind-the-scenes” tales from a Movie Pro, tour actual locations from Dawson’s Creek, One Tree Hill, Empire Records, Ramblin’ Rose, Domestic Disturbance, Black Dog, Sleeping with the Enemy, Matlock and many more!

Jungle Rapids Family Fun Park
5320 Oleander Drive
Wilmington, NC 28403
910-791-0666

Hours: Open May – September, call for additional information

Admission Charged

Located between downtown Wilmington and Wrightsville Beach, Jungle Rapids is Wilmington’s coolest place to play, offering something for the entire family.

Thalian Hall
310 Chestnut Street
Wilmington, NC 28401
800-523-2820
Hours: Call for additional information

Admission Charged

One of the oldest and most beautiful theatres in America, THCPA has been in continuous use since it opened in 1858. Forming the east wing of Wilmington’s magnificent City Hall, the facility hosts over 250 performance events annually. The complex houses three performance venues, the Main Stage, the Grand Ballroom, and the Studio Theatre.

The Stadium Batting Cages
5570 Oleander Drive
Wilmington, NC 28403
910-791-9660

Hours: Call for additional information

Admission Charged

Try your batting skill. It’s fun for the whole family.

Wilmington Children’s Museum
1020 Market Street
Wilmington, NC 28401
910-254-3534
Hours: Tuesday – Saturday 10am – 5pm; Sundays 1pm – 4pm;
Summer Hours: Open Mondays in June, July & August

Admission Charged

The Wilmington Children’s Museum stimulates children’s imagination, curiosity and innate love of learning.

Wilmington Ice House
7201 Ogden Business Lane
Wilmington, NC 28411
910-686-1987

Hours: Call for days and hours of operation

Admission Charged

30,000 square foot ice-skating and recreation center is located near Ogden Park off Market Street. It features an NHL regulation sized ice surface, snack bar with viewing area, pro shop stocked with the latest equipment and private rooms for birthday parties and meetings.

Airlie Gardens
300 Airlie Road
Wilmington, NC 28403
910-798-7700

Hours: Vary by season, call for additional information

Admission Charged

Savor the seasons year-round in Wilmington’s Historic Garden by the Sea. Airlie Gardens offers tranquility and natural delights all year long. Take a meandering stroll back in time among towering ancient oaks, southern magnolia and native palms. Wander along freshwater lakes, spying on tree-perched egrets and gracefully circling swans. Catch the sunset over scenic Bradley Creek and its ever-changing salt marsh.

Battleship North Carolina
Eagles Island
Wilmington, NC 28402
910-251-5797

Hours: Vary by season, call for additional information

Admission Charged

Come aboard and experience the North Carolina’s “Star Appeal”. Because she is preserved just as she was in World War II, the Battleship North Carolina has been the site for many dramatic documentaries. This supporting actress received 15 battlestars for her performance in WWII and will deliver an award winning performance for you. Explore nine decks and see her new visual displays.

Bellamy Mansion Museum & Gardens
503 Market Street
Wilmington, NC 28401
910-251-3700

Hours: Call for days and hours of operation

Admission Charged

Visit the Bellamy Mansion Museum, one of North Carolina’s premier architectural and historic treasures, that offers tours, changing exhibitions on history and design arts, and an informative look at historic preservation in action.

Burgwin-Wright Museum House & Gardens
224 Market Street
Wilmington, NC 28401
910-762-0570

Hours: Vary by season, call for additional information

Admission Charged

Today, the Burgwin-Wright House, beautifully restored, is one of the oldest museum houses in Southeastern North Carolina. Visitors will enjoy the fine detail of the Georgian style architecture, the 18th and early 19th century furnishings and stories of the people who have lived in this house. The house is graced by a formal or parterre garden, a terraced garden, and an orchard, all featuring appropriate plants and trees.

Cape Fear Museum of History & Science
814 Market Street
Wilmington, NC 28401
910-341-4350

Hours: Call for additional information

Admission Charged

Guests find more history, more science and more fun at Cape Fear Museum!

Cape Fear Serpentarium
20 Orange Street
Wilmington, NC 28401
910-762-1669

Hours: Call for days and hours of operation

Admission Charged

The Cape Fear Serpentarium houses the world’s largest collection of Bushmasters and other reptiles from all over the world.

Ghost Walk of Old Wilmington
Riverfront at Market & Water Streets
Wilmington, NC 28401
910-794-1866

Hours: Vary by season, call for additional information

Admission Charged

Join locally renowned actors and ghost hunters on a journey into the depths of Old Wilmington. Traverse 270 year old alleyways littered with tales of pirates and cut-throats who frequented Wilmington’s bustling port. Stumble upon the south’s most actively haunted homes and landmarks, nestled quietly beneath the outstretched canopy of centuries old live oaks, their cryptic limbs straining under the duress of thick clumps of dangling Spanish moss. Hear the dismal accounts behind our most unfortunate wretches and discover the poor lost souls that still linger in this fine city. Hear tales past and present, including the most recent encounters with these spirits (many of which have been experienced on past tours).

Greenfield Park & Gardens
Burnett Boulevard of South 3rd Street
Wilmington, NC 28401
910-341-7868

Hours: Call for additional information

Admission Charged

Halyburton Memorial Park
4099 17th Street
Wilmington, NC 28412
910-343-4750

Hours: Open dawn to dusk

Admission Free

Halyburton Memorial Park contains a 58-acre nature preserve, a 1.5 mile walking and biking trail, picnic shelters and playground equipment, and a unique environmental education and events center.

Latimer House Museum
126 S. Third Street
Wilmington, NC 28401
910-762-0492

Hours: Call for additional information

Admission Charged

The Latimer House, built in 1852 by local merchant Zebulon Latimer, has housed the Historical Society since 1963 and is currently open to the public as a house museum exemplary of upper-class life in Wilmington during the Victorian period. With 14 rooms containing over 600 historic objects (including furniture, jewelry, ephemera, tableware, tools, and more), the Latimer House lets visitors step back in time to a more elegant era.

Louise Wells Cameron Art Museum
3201 S. 17th Street
Wilmington, NC 28412
910-395-5999

Hours: 10am – 5pm Tuesday – Saturday; 10:30am – 4pm Sunday

Admission Charged

The Louise Wells Cameron Art Museum is dedicated to displaying the state’s rich artistic heritage. The 42,000 sq. ft. Museum boasts 15 galleries, displaying a unique blend of artwork ranging from 18th century paintings to 20th century ceramics, decoys, sculptures and even computer generated art. After viewing the renowned permanent collection and fascinating traveling exhibitions, stroll the 10-acres campus including the Civil War Battlefield and Sculpture Park.

New Hanover County Arboretum
6206 Oleander Drive
Wilmington, NC 28403
910-452-6393

Hours: Call for additional information

Admission Free

Poplar Grove Historic Plantation
10200 US Hwy. 17 North
Wilmington, NC 28411
910-686-9518

Hours: 9am – 5pm Mon – Sat & 12pm – 5pm Sun

Admission Charged

Poplar Grove Plantation preserves the homestead of a successful farming family, and the outbuildings and crafts typical of a 1800s era working community. Poplar Grove is preserved through the efforts of the non-profit Poplar Grove Foundation.

Tregembo Animal Park
5813 Carolina Beach Rd
Wilmington, NC 28412
910-392-3604

Wilmington Railroad Museum
501 Nutt Street
Wilmington, NC 28401
910-763-2634
Hours: Vary by season, call for additional information

Admission Charged

The Wilmington Railroad Museum is dedicated to preserving the history of the Atlantic Coast Line Railroad and the history of railroading in the southeastern United States. The Wilmington Railroad Museum has an eclectic collection of displays, which you and your children should find fun and educational.

Wilmington Trolley Company
Corner of Dock & Water Streets
Wilmington, NC 28401
910-763-4483

Hours: Vary by season, call for additional information

Admission Charged

Experience the Grandeur and Charm of Old Wilmington with an 8 mile sightseeing trolley tour.

Cape Fear Riverboats, Inc.
101 South Water Street Unit 1
Wilmington, NC 28402
800-676-0162

Hours: Call for reservations and additional information

Admission Charged

‘Welcome aboard!’ is the motto of Henrietta III’s Captain and crew as they strive to offer the finest in Southern hospitality. A favorite for locals and visitors.

D- Family Fun Attractions:
Hollywood South on Location Tours
Historic Downtown Wilmington
Corner of Water & Market Streets

Wilmington, NC 28401
910-763-0288

Hours: Vary by season, call for additional information

Admission Charged

Take a Magic Hour Walking Tour through historic downtown Wilmington, the movie capital of the Southeast. Learn about the “Magic of Making Movies” and “behind-the-scenes” tales from a movie pro, tour actual locations from Dawson’s Creek, One Tree Hill, Empire Records, Ramblin’ Rose, Domestic Disturbance, Black Dog, Sleeping with the Enemy, Matlock and many more!

Jungle Rapids Family Fun Park
5320 Oleander Drive
Wilmington, NC 28403
910-791-0666

Hours: Open May – September, call for additional information

Admission Charged

Located between downtown Wilmington and Wrightsville Beach, Jungle Rapids is Wilmington’s coolest place to play, offering something for the entire family.

The Stadium Batting Cages
5570 Oleander Drive
Wilmington, NC 28403
910-791-9660

Hours: Call for additional information

Admission Charged

Try your batting skill. It’s fun for the whole family.

Battleship North Carolina
Eagles Island
Wilmington, NC 28402
910-251-5797

Hours: Vary by season, call for additional information

Admission Charged

Come aboard and experience the North Carolina’s “Star Appeal”. Because she is preserved just as she was in World War II, the Battleship North Carolina has been the site for many dramatic documentaries. This supporting actress received 15 battlestars for her performance in WWII and will deliver an award winning performance for you. Explore nine decks and see her new visual displays.

Cape Fear Serpentarium
20 Orange Street
Wilmington, NC 28401
910-762-1669

Hours: Call for days and hours of operation

Admission Charged

The Cape Fear Serpentarium houses the world’s largest collection of Bushmasters and other reptiles from all over the world.

Ghost Walk of Old Wilmington
Riverfront at Market & Water Streets
Wilmington, NC 28401
910-794-1866

Hours: Vary by season, call for additional information

Admission Charged

Join locally renowned actors and ghost hunters on a journey into the depths of Old Wilmington. Traverse 270 year old alleyways littered with tales of pirates and cut-throats who frequented Wilmington’s bustling port. Stumble upon the south’s most actively haunted homes and landmarks, nestled quietly beneath the outstretched canopy of centuries old live oaks, their cryptic limbs straining under the duress of thick clumps of dangling Spanish moss. Hear the dismal accounts behind our most unfortunate wretches and discover the poor lost souls that still linger in this fine city. Hear tales past and present, including the most recent encounters with these spirits (many of which have been experienced on past tours).

Cape Fear Riverboats, Inc.
101 South Water Street Unit 1
Wilmington, NC 28402
800-676-0162

Hours: Call for reservations and additional information

Admission Charged

‘Welcome aboard!’ is the motto of HENRIETTA III’s Captain Carl Marshburn and crew as they strive to offer the finest in Southern hospitality. A favorite for locals and visitors.

E- Events & Entertainment:

Events & Entertainment

January

Gingerbread Fantasy

Held through early January

Location: Holiday Inn SunSpree Resort

910-256-2231

Highlights includes 5 life size gingerbread houses in an enchanting holiday winter setting, a gingerbread house workshop, a display of miniature gingerbread houses, evening fireside storytelling with cookies and cocoa for the children, visits from Santa and the hotel’s mascot, Gabby the Parrot, and special holiday Sunday brunch buffets.

Annual Holiday Lighting of the Battleship

Held through early January

Location: Historic Downtown Wilmington

910-251-5797

Part of historic downtown Wilmington’s annual holiday light celebration and naval tradition, the Battleship is dressed in lights strung from the bow up to the masts and down to the stern. Enjoy nightly. Free viewing from downtown Wilmington.

February

North Carolina Jazz Festival

Held in early February

Location: Riverside

910-763-8585

The Annual North Carolina Jazz Festival features eight sets nightly with a different combination of musicians.

Annual Camellia Show

Held in late February

Location: Scottish Rite Temple

910- 791-3455

The Tidewater Camellia Club presents this long standing community event free of charge to the public. Come and see approximately a thousand camellia blooms, grown inside and outdoors. The blooms will compete for exquisite prizes and more importantly, “bragging rights.” A panel of American Camellia Society certified judges adjudicates the blooms.

March

Annual Festival of Black Film

Held in early March

Location: Varies throughout the city

The four-day jury and invitational screenings of independent and major motion pictures by African-American filmmakers showcases feature-length, short subject, animation and documentary films.

Annual Summer Camp Fair

Held in early March

Location: Coast Line Convention Center

910-763-6739

Admission Free
A variety of local and regional camps for children of all ages. The fair includes entertainment, demonstrations and door prizes.

Cucalorus Festival of Independent Film

Held in late March – early April

Location: Thalian Hall, Community Arts Center, City Stage Theatre

910-343-5995

The Annual Cucalorus Film Festival is a five-day showcase of independent film. Dubbed “the best kept secret on the indie-fest circuit,” by MovieMaker magazine, the festival brings shorts, documentaries and features to Wilmington audiences.

Master Gardener Plant Sale

Held in late March – early April

Location: The Arboretum

910-452-6393

Over 30 varieties of Azaleas, perennials, annuals, vines, hanging baskets, flowering trees, shrubs and herbs.

April

North Carolina Festival Street Fair

Held in early – mid April

Location: Downtown Wilmington

910-794-4650

The annual North Carolina Azalea Festival Street Fair provides more fun, excitement and action with each passing year. The event includes arts, crafts, food, dance troupes, jugglers, costumed characters, rock-climbing walls and many other events for families and children of all ages to enjoy. Over 200 crafters converge on Water Street, over thirty-five food vendors stretching from Red Cross Street to Dock Street; offer something for every taste, from alligator tail to funnel cakes, costumed characters stroll throughout the day. Also four stages of non stop entertainment with dance troupes on the Riverfront Stage will perform.

North Carolina Festival Horse Show

Held in mid April

Location: Hugh MacRae Park

910-791-5773

Competitions in dozens of classes and various styles of riding are featured in the North Carolina Azalea Festival Horse Show, which is held at Hugh MacRae Park. Organized by the Seagate Saddle Club, the show awards trophies and ribbons to competitors in the Game Show, Hunter-English Show and Western Pleasure Show. Competitors from across the state compete in this well-known annual event.

Pleasure Island Chowder Cook-Off

Held in mid April

Location: Jubilee Park

910-200-3288

Taste and vote on all types and styles of delicious chowder prepared by some of the finest restaurants in South Eastern North Carolina. The daylong event features live blues, rock, and beach music. Children can take part in the activities planned for them. If you love chowder, music, and family fun, don’t miss this annual event presented by the Pleasure Island Merchants Association.

May

Jazz-in-the-Park

Held in early May

Location: Wrightsville Beach Park
CFJAS holds its annual “Jazz-In-The Park”. Several bands perform at Wrightsville Beach Park. The music is free and open to the public. Bring the family, a picnic lunch and lawn chairs.

Annual Thalian Hall 5K/1 Mile Walk

Held in early May

Location: Thalian Hall

The annual Thalian Hall 5K/1-Mile Walk benefits Thalian Hall Center for the Performing Arts in its continued effort to bring the finest in entertainment to the southeast region and to be a first-class facility for the more than 30 area non-profit groups that utilize the building each year.

Airlie Arts Festival

Held in early May

Location: Airlie Gardens

910-798-7700

The Airlie Arts Festival is an annual event that showcases outstanding art and music in one of the Southeast’s most beautiful and historic venues, Airlie Gardens, in Wilmington, NC. It is held every year during the first full weekend in May, when the garden is in spring bloom and the weather is likely to be pleasantly warm.

Cape Fear Disabled Sportsman’s Tournament

Held in mid May

Location: Kure Beach Fishing Pier
910-458-1202

The Cape Fear Disabled Sportsman’s Tournament is put on annually by the Got Em On Live Bait fishing club and they really throw a shindig. The tourney is held at the Kure Beach Fishing Pier in Kure Beach, North Carolina and is free for disabled anglers. Participants are provided with rods, tackle, bait, refreshments, food, t-shirts and prizes.

Surf-Sun-Sand Co-ed Volleyball Tournament

Held in mid – late May

Location: Wrightsville Beach Park

910-256-7925

Wrightsville Beach Parks and Recreation is hosting the Annual Surf-Sun-Sand Volleyball tournament. This six or four-person co-ed volleyball tournament has divisions for skill levels including Novice and Intermediate. All players receive a t-shirt, and prizes are awarded to the players from the winning team in each division. There is a limit of 36 teams for this tournament, and pre-registration is required.

Seaside Soccer Classic

Held in mid – late May

Location: Soccer Fields throughout NHC
910-392-0306

Spring soccer tournament that includes youth teams from throughout North Carolina and other states.

Port of Wilmington Maritime Day Festival

Held in mid May

Location: North Carolina State Ports

910-763-1621

The festival is designed to promote in an entertaining and educational way, the importance of maritime commerce on the Cape Fear River, and to honor past and present members of our nation’s merchant marine. It’s an opportunity for those of us in the maritime community and the general public to come together and learn more about international and domestic waterborne commerce, and the business, industry and labor throughout our region that use and depend on the Port of Wilmington. Highlights of the day’s activities will include a special dockside Maritime Day Memorial Ceremony. Other activities will include port tours and vessel tours. Maritime businesses, as well as historical and environmental agencies, will have special exhibits.

Wilmington Exchange Festival

Held in late May

Location: SoapBox Laundro Lounge

An annual celebration of independent music, featuring bands that range from country to experimental to metal, across all genres.

June

Annual Beach Music Festival

Held in early June

Location: Ocean Front Beach Stage

910-200-3288

Carolina Beach Music Festival features four beach music bands.

Greater Wilmington King Mackerel Tournament

Held in late June

Location: Wrightsville Beach

910-452-9740

Annual tournament benefits Teach a Kid to Fish, Children’s Fishing Foundation. Largest cash prize King Mackerel Tournament.

July

Cape Fear 7’s Rugby Tournament

Held in early July

Location: Ogden Park

910-264-5277

Admission Free

The Cape Fear Rugby Football Club hosts the Annual Cape Fear 7’s Rugby Tournament. Cape Fear 7’s is one of the oldest and largest 7-a-side weekend rugby tournaments in the entire United States of America and attracts over 60+ teams from throughout the United States and from many international locations, as well.

Battleship Blast

Held on the fourth of July

Location: Battleship North Carolina

910-251-5797

The Battleship NORTH CAROLINA hosts the Annual “BATTLESHIP BLAST” fireworks spectacular. This production by PYRO SHOWS, an international award-winning pyrotechnics company, is guaranteed to dazzle residents and visitors alike. Watch one of the largest choreographed fireworks displays in North Carolina cascade over the Battleship. Bring the entire family and enjoy an explosive evening! Primary viewing from historic downtown Wilmington.

Annual East Coast Got-Em-On Classic

Held in early – mid July

Location: Carolina Beach

Enjoy this long running fishing tournament. Sponsored by the East Coast Got Em On Live.

Cape Fear Blues Festival

Held in late July

Location: Battleship Park & other locations
910-350-8822

Four days of Blues music nestled between the beautiful beaches of the Cape Fear Coast and the Historic Riverfront of downtown Wilmington. Cruises, concerts, workshops and more.

September

Art in the Gardens Tour

Held in late September

Location: Various Gardens
910-452-6393

Gardens are on tour, both private and public and feature beautiful designs and floral displays enhanced by art and music.

October

Pleasure Island Seafood, Blues & Jazz Festival

Held in early October

Location: Fort Fisher Military Recreation

910-458-8434

A 2-day event at Fort Fisher on the Cape Fear River. Feast on fresh seafood prepared by top Southeastern NC restaurants. Three music stages with non-stop Blues and Jazz music.

November

Annual Battleship Half Marathon

Held in mid November

Location: Battleship North Carolina

910-251-9622

The Wilmington Roadrunners conduct this challenging TAC-certified race that starts and finishes at the Battleship, encompassing three bridges and Greenfield Lake. Funds benefit the Battleship and the Wilmington Family YMCA.

North Carolina Holiday Flotilla

Held in late November

Location: Wrightsville Beach
910-509-1204

The spectacular lighted boat parade is a holiday tradition at Wrightsville Beach for locals, boat lovers, and tourists. It is one of the top 20 November events in the Southeast with over 30 boats ranging from yachts to personal watercrafts decorated for the holiday display. Spend the day in the park (10am to 4:30pm) and enjoy a lighted boat parade on Banks Channel with fireworks in the evening.

December

Annual Holiday Lighting of the Battleship

Held in early December – early January

Location: View from Historic Downtown Wilmington

910-251-5797

Part of historic downtown Wilmington’s annual holiday light celebration and naval tradition, the Battleship is dressed in lights strung from the bow up to the masts and down to the stern. Enjoy nightly. Free viewing from downtown Wilmington.

Entertainment

Showtime Theatre
103 North Lake Park Blvd.
Carolina Beach, NC 28428
910-458-1771

Call for performance schedule

Thalian Hall

310 Chestnut Street
Wilmington, NC 28401
800-523-2820

Call for performance schedule

One of the oldest and most beautiful theatres in America, THCPA has been in continuous use since it opened in 1858. Forming the east wing of Wilmington’s magnificent City Hall, the facility hosts over 250 performance events annually. The complex houses three performance venues, the Main Stage, the Grand Ballroom, and the Studio Theatre.

Kenan Auditorium – UNCW
600 South College Road
Wilmington, NC 28403
800-732-3643
Call for performance schedule

Level 5 at City Stage
21 North Front Street
Wilmington, NC 28401
910-342-0272

Call for performance schedule

SRO Theatre
UNCW, 601 S College Rd
Wilmington, NC 28403
910-962-3500

Call for performance schedule