If you’re ever lucky enough to stop for a stay at Fort Bragg, just west of Fayetteville, NC, not only do we offer a convenient on-post location at IHG® Army Hotels Moon Hall, but there’s also plenty of sights and experiences to visit while you’re in the area. In addition to the numerous comfortable and modern amenities found at our hotel including high speed internet access, a ‘Sweet Shop’, free laundry and a relaxing patio, you’re just a short drive away from fun opportunities, such as the following:
Cape Fear Botanical Garden
Founded in 1989, this Botanical Garden sports 80 acres of beautiful land nestled between the Cape Fear River and Cross Creek, just a couple miles from downtown Fayetteville. The garden has impressive attractions such as ornamental plants, Camellia, Daylilly, and Shade Gardens, the Butterfly Stroll, and a Heritage Garden with 1886 agricultural structures and a homestead. Be sure to take a walk on their scenic river trail and relax on the beautiful patio, and if you’re interested in a more hands on experience, grab a guided tour!
Cape Fear River Trail
If you’re looking for something more active, go for a long walk (or run) on the Cape Fear River Trail! With over 5.5 miles of paved path winding along the riverside, you’re sure to enjoy your exercise. The trail features scenic wooden bridges, over 1,000 feet of boardwalk through marsh and wetlands, and more than 700 species of plants and trees in addition to 150 species of birds. Parking is available at Jordan Soccer Complex and Clark Park, and the park is open every day from 8am to dusk.
Museum of the Cape Fear
Opened in 1988, the Museum of the Cape Fear is a regional history museum, with tours, exhibits, special events, and even live demonstrations bringing to life the rich history of the area. From Fayetteville being first being settled by Native Americans, to the Carolinian ratification of the US Constitution and through the Civil War, there’s always more to learn at the museum. The museum is open 10a-5p Tuesday through Saturday and 1p-5p on Sunday, so be sure to plan your visit!
1897 Poe House
A prominent part of the Museum of the Cape Fear, the 1897 Poe House is so named because it was built in 1897 and was the home of the Poe Family (no relation to the famous American writer). Mr. E.A. Poe was a local businessman and owner of the Poe Brick Company, and the house is still an incredible place to learn about early 20th century life, women’s roles, African American history, and the numerous changes happening in southern North Carolina during this period.
North Carolina Veterans Park
Fayetteville is also known as America’s First Sanctuary Community for the Military, so it’s fitting that downtown hosts the North Carolina Veterans Park, dedicated to veterans of all ages, living or deceased, from all branches of the Armed Services. Symbolic features pay homage to the veterans from over 100 North Carolina counties and the citizens and families who support them. Admission is free, and the park is open 8a to dusk, though the visitors center has its own hours.
Carvers Creek State Park
Located in nearby Spring Lake, the new Carvers Creek State Park centers around Long Valley Farm, the historic retreat of a Rockefeller family member, and is continuing to develop new recreational opportunities. The park is a great place to fish, hike through pine forests, and even take tours through the vacation home of the late James Stillman Rockefeller, who bequeathed the property for conservation. You can also call to set up camping reservations. There are no entrance fees, and the park is generally open from 8a to dusk every day.
There’s so much to do when you’re staying with us on historic Fort Bragg, so be sure to plan your visit ASAP! We’ll be looking forward to seeing you on-post.