Find free, cheap and fun things to do in Fort Bragg and Fayetteville, NC area, from inexpensive date nights to fun family activities!

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It’s summer, and that means that for a lot of families, school is out. If you’re kids are anything like mine then they’ve been counting down the days until summer vacation all year long. With an ever evolving curriculum and the amount of homework kids seem to be accumulating these days, it’s no surprise that they’d want a few months off to decompress and regain their bearings. Summer break is the perfect way to let off some steam and celebrate being a family without the added extra stress of school work.

Unfortunately, now summer break is coming to a close and the new school year is approaching fast. It’s never been a better time to get the kids out of the house to get the most out of this last week before they begin the year back at school. You might be a little exhausted from all the summer break shenanigans you’ve participated in during the last few months and your bank account might be looking a little bare but that doesn’t mean you can’t find a few activities that are local to you that won’t break the bank. If you’re stationed at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, I’ve dug up some great things to do to help say goodbye to summer and the best part is they’re fairly inexpensive so you won’t need to take out a second mortgage to afford them!

Cheap and Fun Things To Do in Fort Bragg, Fayetteville, NC

Airborne Lanes Bowling Alley

Open from Monday-Thursday from 11 a.m to 10 p.m, Friday from 11 a.m to 12 p.m and Saturday from 11 a.m to 12 a.m, Airborne Lanes on Ardennes is the perfect way to spend an afternoon with the little ones. It even has a concession stand that offers snacks and drinks while you bowl. Of course, you can also visit Dragon Lanes on Reilly.

Athlete’s Choice Batting Center

If you have a family full of baseball fans this the one is for you. It’s the best way to get your batting practice in while also spending time and getting outdoors with your family. Hours of operation are Monday-Friday from 3 p.m to 9 p.m. Visit https://www.facebook.com/AthletesChoiceBattingCenter for more info.

82nd Airborne Division Museum

This is one museum you have to visit. The 82nd Airborne Division Museum was established in 1945 to share the history of the Division from 1917 to the present time. Kids will especially love learning about the paratroopers and “why mommy and daddy jump out of planes at work.” Hours are Tuesday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and closed on Monday and Sunday.

Fascinate-U Children’s Museum

If you don’t think the kiddos would be too into the Airborne Museum, the Fascinate-U Children’s Museum just might do the trick! Fun exhibits include a Farm, Army Fort, Fire Station, Post Office, Grocery Store, and many more. They even have a toddler room laid out as a mini-house for children under four.

Festival Park and the Dogwood Festival

This can get pricey, especially if you love food trucks (and, well, food period), because there is always so much of it! But even if you go to walk around and take in the happenings, be sure to check out the Spring and Fall Festivals! For more events, check out http://www.faydogwoodfestival.com/events

Black River Paintball

I don’t know about you, but I enjoy a good round of paintball. Black River is open for business on Friday from 12 p.m to 7 p.m, Saturday from 9 a.m to 5 p.m and Sunday from 11 a.m to 5 p.m. Whether you’re in a small group or a large one, Black River Paintball is a fantastic option for get-togethers. This would make for a pretty fun date night, too 😉

Cape Fear Botanical Gardens

This one has to go on your list for sure. Talk a nature walk, have a picnic, and stop and smell the roses at the Cape Fear Botanical Gardens! There are workshops and volunteer opportunities that you won’t want to miss. Grab your girlfriends for a day out and a chance to enjoy the beautiful weather – especially in the Spring months!

Cumberland County Libraries

Not only is it free to visit, but the library is a great place to foster imagination and quench your love of reading, whether you’re on your own or taking your little ones for “Story Time”. Don’t forget that you can rent DVDs from the library, too! They’re open Monday-Wednesday from 9 a.m to 9 p.m and Thursday-Saturday from 9 a.m to 6 p.m. Visit http://www.cumberland.lib.nc.us/ccplsite to find a location near you.

Cape Fear Regional Theater

Boasting a selection of children’s favorites, elaborate musicals, dramas, comedies and more, the Cape Fear Regional Theater is wonderful for all ages. They even offer behind the scenes tours if you call ahead to make the arrangements.

Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or wanting to have fun that will help you beat the heat, the Fort Bragg area has something for everyone in your family to enjoy. The best part, other than offering a huge variety of free or cheap activities, is that it’ll help you in your effort to bond with your family as well as make the remaining of their summer a memorable past time.