There is extensive dialogue surrounding Fayetteville as a travel destination or city aimed at recruiting new businesses and new residents. 

As someone who moved here from out of state, I thought it could be fun to share my personal experience as a newcomer to the area, and what businesses were the first to catch my attention. Of course, these are subject to my interests, but here are some local businesses that I visited in my first month of living here that caught my eye.  

FOOD 

Rude Awakening - As a lover of coffee shops and aesthetic spaces, I was immediately intrigued when I found Rude Awakening on my search for local cafes. Their outdoor seating area is the perfect space to settle in with a good book when the weather is nice. 

Antonella’s - This locally owned Italian restaurant is a favorite of many for a reason. Funnily enough, the first time I went here, one of the first weekends I’d been in town, I ran into my boss Marty and his wife! 

Pate’s Farm Market - This was recommended to me by my coworkers for their delicious peaches, and it certainly delivered. Additionally, the machine that slices the pineapple for you is a unique convenience that now feels like a necessity when enjoying the spiny fruit.

FUN 

Greg’s Pottery - I believe this was also a recommendation from a coworker, but this paint-your-own-pottery business is a fun local treasure. I’ve got a small spotted mushroom and a little ceramic pumpkin adorning my shelves, both personally painted at Greg’s. 

Live theatre - As a theatre geek, I was quick to Google the arts scene in Fayetteville. The first I found was Gilbert Theater, and I quickly became a patron of their shows. As I continued to become plugged into the community, I became an avid supporter of Sweet Tea Shakespeare and Cape Fear Regional Theatre as well. 

Outdoor exploring - (Not a business, but studies show access to outdoor spaces boosts livability and makes a city more desirable to new businesses and residents.) Being from The Natural State and having moved in August, I was eager to enjoy the beautiful nature North Carolina has to offer. I went walking/ hiking around local trails. One of my favorites for a casual walk remains the Cape Fear River Trail. I’ve yet to walk the full thing, which is about 5.3 miles one way, but I always enjoy it, especially in the spring and fall.

Since those first few weeks, I’ve continued to enjoy all of these Fayetteville treasures as well as many more that I have discovered, and even new businesses I’ve been lucky enough to see open during my time living here. 

Before moving, I did some research online and found plenty of less-than-stellar reviews, but I am glad I did not let those prevent me from finding all of the positives this city has to offer. And each year, local leaders are working hard to make Fayetteville an even better place to live, work and recreate.