Raeford North CarolinaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Raeford, North Carolina.
1. Paraclete XP Indoor Skydiving
PREMIER INDOOR SKYDIVING DESTINATION
Paraclete XP Indoor Skydiving is the largest wind tunnel in the US and home to some of the world's best skydiving teams. This premier destination offers the thrill of skydiving in a controlled indoor environment, making it accessible to beginners and professionals alike. Visitors can experience the sensation of free-falling without jumping from an airplane, making it a perfect adventure for those seeking an adrenaline rush.
2. Rockfish Creek Winery
LOCAL WINE EXPERIENCE
Rockfish Creek Winery offers visitors a taste of locally produced wines in a charming setting. The winery provides tours of their vineyards and production facilities, allowing guests to learn about the winemaking process from grape to bottle. Wine enthusiasts can enjoy tastings of various wines while relaxing in the picturesque surroundings of Hoke County.
3. Mill Prong House
HISTORIC CIVIL WAR SITE
Mill Prong House is a historic site with significant connections to both the Revolutionary and Civil Wars. In 1781, Patriot General Rutherford defeated local Loyalists in a final battle near Mill Prong, marking an important Revolutionary War event. During the Civil War, General Sherman's troops passed through the area and damaged the family piano, which has since been restored and returned to its original location at Mill Prong.
4. Wide Open MX Park
MOTOCROSS ADVENTURE PARK
Wide Open MX Park provides an exciting venue for motocross enthusiasts of all skill levels. The park features various tracks with jumps, berms, and obstacles designed to challenge riders and improve their skills. Visitors can bring their own motorcycles to experience the thrill of off-road riding in a dedicated facility that hosts regular races and events.
5. Castle Hoke
UNIQUE HISTORICAL STRUCTURE
Castle Hoke stands as one of Raeford's distinctive landmarks with its castle-like architecture. This unique structure attracts visitors curious about its history and design, making it a popular point of interest in Hoke County. The castle offers a glimpse into the architectural diversity of the region and provides an interesting backdrop for photography enthusiasts.
6. Raeford-Hoke Museum
LOCAL HISTORY PRESERVED
The Raeford-Hoke Museum began its preservation project in 2002 with the purchase of The McLauchlin-McFadyen House. The museum's mission is to preserve the history, culture, and artifacts of the local area through its extensive collection. Visitors can explore historical artifacts, photographs, and genealogies that tell the story of Raeford and Hoke County's rich heritage.
7. Carolina Horse Park
EQUESTRIAN COMPETITION VENUE
Carolina Horse Park Foundation is a 250-acre nationally recognized, premiere equestrian competition venue located in Hoke County. Founded in 1998 as a non-profit organization, the park is dedicated to the preservation of open space for equestrian and recreational purposes. Equestrian enthusiasts can enjoy various competitions and events held throughout the year at this field of dreams for horse lovers.
8. NC Fall Festival
CELEBRATED ANNUAL EVENT
The NC Fall Festival, originally known as the NC Turkey Festival, is considered one of the best festivals in North Carolina, held every September in Raeford. This week-long celebration hosts a state-wide turkey cooking contest, games, crafts, music, and entertainment for visitors of all ages. The festival continues to attract more than 60,000 visitors each year, making it a significant cultural event for the region.
9. Hoke Fest
COMMUNITY CARNIVAL CELEBRATION
Hoke Fest started in 2011 as the carnival for the Hoke County Centennial Celebration and has grown into an annual tradition. The festival features food vendors, games, rides, and various forms of entertainment for the whole family. This community event brings together locals and visitors to celebrate the vibrant culture and history of Hoke County.
10. Battle of Monroe's Crossing
CIVIL WAR HISTORICAL SITE
The Battle of Monroe's Crossing is a significant historical site that commemorates an important Civil War engagement in the Raeford area. This battle site provides visitors with insights into the military strategies and conditions faced by soldiers during this tumultuous period in American history. History enthusiasts can explore the grounds where troops once clashed and learn about the battle's impact on the local community and the broader war effort.
11. Arsenal Park
HISTORIC MILITARY SITE
Arsenal Park is the historic site of the Fayetteville Arsenal, constructed in the 1830s to provide military equipment for the U.S. Army. During the Civil War, the arsenal was seized by Confederate forces and later destroyed by Union troops in 1865. Today, the park includes remnants of the original structures and serves as a poignant reminder of the region's role in American military history.
12. Museum of the Cape Fear
REGIONAL HISTORY COMPLEX
The Museum of the Cape Fear Historical Complex provides a comprehensive look at the history of southeastern North Carolina. Exhibits cover everything from Native American history to the colonial period, the Civil War, and beyond. The complex includes the 1897 Poe House, which offers visitors a glimpse into early 20th-century life in the region.
13. Airborne & Special Operations Museum
MILITARY HISTORY SHOWCASE
The Airborne & Special Operations Museum is dedicated to the history of airborne and special operations forces in the U.S. military. The museum uses interactive exhibits, life-size dioramas, and a collection of artifacts to tell the story of these elite units and their contributions to military history. It's a must-visit for anyone interested in military history and the brave soldiers who serve in these specialized roles.
14. Fayetteville Transportation Museum
TRANSIT HISTORY COLLECTION
The Fayetteville Transportation Museum is located in a restored 1890s railroad depot, exploring the history of transportation in the region. Exhibits include vintage vehicles, model trains, and artifacts related to the development of the area's transportation infrastructure. Visitors can learn about how transportation networks have shaped the growth and development of Fayetteville and surrounding communities over time.
15. Cultural Heritage Trails
DIVERSE HISTORICAL PATHWAYS
Fayetteville's Cultural Heritage Trails offer visitors self-guided walking tours through historically significant areas of the city. These trails highlight various aspects of the region's diverse cultural heritage, including African American history, military history, and architectural landmarks. Explorers can follow these well-marked paths to discover the stories and sites that have shaped Fayetteville's unique identity over the centuries.