A new entertainment venue is preparing to open in Fayetteville this summer, bringing together interactive gaming, dining and social experiences under one roof.

Group Therapy Pub & Playground, which has a successful sister location in Greenville, South Carolina, is expanding to Fayetteville with a 10,000-square-foot facility at 1906 Skibo Road. The venue combines nostalgic games with modern technology, featuring activities designed for groups of family, friends or colleagues to enjoy together.

The Fayetteville location will offer what the company describes as "experiential entertainment," including an 18-hole indoor miniature golf course with pop-culture themes, digital axe throwing using real axes with projected targets, digital darts, ping pong and various arcade-style games. The facility also includes a 30-tap self-serve beer wall, full bar service and a kitchen serving American pub fare. “Fayetteville is building more things for people to do,” said Victoria Eppstein, events manager for Group Therapy. “Instead of having to drive to Raleigh or Wilmington, we can create a welcoming space for people
to do something unique without driving to a new city.”

The experiential entertainment concept emerged from the post-pandemic social landscape, with founders recognizing increased demand for group activities that encourage in-person social interaction. While also open to walk-in guests, the business specializes in hosting corporate events, birthday parties and bachelor/bachelorette celebrations alongside casual social gatherings.

“We’re building a community space,” Eppstein said. “We want guests to feel comfortable and have a good time, whether they’re here for a team event or just a night out with friends.”

Group Therapy’s business model centers on what industry observers call “competitive socializing” – activities that blend gaming with dining and drinking. The facility also includes a stage for live entertainment, with plans for bands and DJs on weekends. Note that the company enforces an 18-and-older policy after 8 p.m. as it transitions to an adult-oriented venue in the evening.

“All of our games are built around the idea of doing something fun with friends and family,” Eppstein explained. “Whether it’s competing in a mini golf challenge or hanging out over drinks and flatbreads, the goal is to create moments that bring people closer.”

As entertainment venues nationwide adapt to changing social preferences, Group Therapy’s expansion into Fayetteville reflects broader growth in the competitive socializing sector, which has seen increased investment and consumer interest in recent years.

Located conveniently to residential areas and the Fort Bragg Army base, the Group Therapy venue expects to open by late summer, with exact dates pending final construction and licensing approvals.

Eppstein added that Group Therapy is actively recruiting staff through local job boards and social media, with positions available in food service, bar operations and game management.

Learn more about Group Therapy and inquire about employment opportunities at www.grouptherapy.fun/fayetteville.