One of the most fun ways to make the most out of your visit to Fayetteville, North Carolina is to check out some of the local attractions. Some of the places are historical, while others are one of a kind. The local brochures have plenty of information on places and attractions that are worthwhile.
Jambbas Ranch is a private zoological park that allows animals to thrive in a natural atmosphere. This private sanctuary houses animals such as buffalos, llamas, deer, elk, cows, sheep, ducks, swans, and peacocks. The zoo recently added a bear to their family. The zoo allows you to feed some of the smaller animals, while feeding the larger ones is prohibited. If you tour the entire facility, expect to be there at least two hours. Besides the animals, there are other scenic attractions including a welcome center, a covered bridge, and a swinging bridge. The facility is also located by the Cape Fear River. Admission to the private zoo is reasonable: Adults, $6.00 and Children, $4.00.
The Airborne & Special Operations Museum is located in downtown Fayetteville. In the lobby area two deployed parachutes are featured, a WWII era T-5 round chute and a modern MC-4 square chute. These parachutes are the symbol for airborne penetration. Natural light from the glass walls provides the illumination for these exhibits. The history of airborne units and special operations units is also displayed in the lobby area.
In the main exhibit gallery, the exhibit titles are featured in chronological order. The Early Airborne Exhibit (event happened in 1940); World War II Exhibit (event happened in 1948); Korea and Cold War (event happened in early 1950s); Vietnam (event happened in mid 1950s); and Contingency Operations and Training (event happened in 1975). There is also a smaller exhibit gallery that tells stories not listed in the main gallery. The museum also has a large movie theater, a motion simulator and a video theater. Even though admission is free at the museum, they do accept donations.
Fascinate-U Children’s Museum allows children to discover beyond the norm by role playing. Exhibits include a grocery store, courtroom, weather center and emergency dispatch center. The museum also provides interactive programs that have to do with health, fitness, space and science. The museum also allows members and non-members to rent their facilities for birthday parties and the museum offers art classes. Admission is $3.00 for children and $1.00 for adults. The museum is open on Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, 9AM – 5PM; Wednesday, 9AM – 7PM; Saturday, 10AM – 5PM; and Sunday, 12PM – 5PM.
If you’re into horticulture, the Cape Fear Botanical Gardens is for you. This facility in encroached on 79 acres of land between Cross Creek and the Cape Fear River. The nature trails compliment the facility along with an amphitheater and a natural forest area. The botanical garden’s mission is to provide an enriching experience for its visitors. The key to a thriving environment is education, and the facility provides tours projects and workshops for adults. Children can participate in story telling time, nature hunts, summer day camps and different field trips. May Day and the Heritage Festival are two family-friendly events offered at the botanical gardens. Their gazebo is popular for weddings. Admission fees vary, depending on the time of year you visit or if you’re in a group. Free admission is offered every first Saturday of the month and the entire month of April.
There are places to go in Fayetteville that are educational and enriching, and they don’t have to cost you an arm and a leg.
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