Craving small-town charm with big personality near Raleigh? Head to Fuquay-Varina! With two historic downtowns, craft breweries, scenic parks, and friendly vibes, this Wake County town offers a relaxed pace and rich local flavor. Whether you’re exploring shops, sipping brews, or strolling greenways, Fuquay-Varina is a delight to discover.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Fuquay-Varina is from spring through fall (April to October). Warm weather brings festivals, farmers markets, and perfect park days. Autumn colors and mild temps make fall especially lovely for outdoor events and patio dining.
How to Get There
- By Car: Fuquay-Varina is about 30 minutes south of downtown Raleigh via US-401 or NC-55.
- By Air: Fly into Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU), then drive 35–40 minutes to town.
- By Public Transit: Local bus service through GoTriangle offers limited connections to nearby cities, but a car is recommended.
Where to Stay
- Comfort Inn & Suites Fuquay-Varina – Comfortable and convenient for families and business travelers alike.
- Hampton Inn & Suites Holly Springs – Just a short drive away, with modern amenities and complimentary breakfast.
- Airbnb & Vacation Rentals – Choose from cozy downtown apartments, countryside cottages, or spacious family homes.
Top Attractions
⮕ Fainting Goat Brewing Company
Savor craft beers and unwind during an easy weekend outing.
Like many craft breweries the Fainting Goat Brewing Company started off in as one man’s passion for brewing great beer in his kitchen/garage. After teaming up with a business-savvy friend, the micro-brewing business moved out of the garage and into their Parrish Drive Brewery. Today the Fainting Goat welcomes locals and visitors to come and find out all about what goes into making a fine artisanal beer. At the Tap Room on Main Street you can look forward to tasting a variety of brilliant core brews including American Pale Ale, Pomegranate Witbier, Hefeweizen and IPA’s as well as a rotation selection of seasonal additions.
Fainting Goat Brewing Company, 330 South Main St, Fuquay-Varina, NC 27526, Phone: 919 346 7915
⮕ Aviator Brewing Company
Enjoy bold brews and explore this exciting local hangout.
Aviator Brewing Company started off in an old airplane hangar in 2008. Since then the business has grown by leaps and bounds and currently encompasses a large modern brewery complex with a canning facility, the Hangar Bar, two restaurants and a Tap Room. Visitors are welcome to stop by for an informative tour of the brewing facility, followed by a tasting in the Tap Room or at the bar, where you will find at least 19 beers on tap. At the Aviator Smokehouse, just down the road, you can enjoy a great American BBQ meal and then round off your evening with some live music at the Aviator Tap Room.
Aviator Brewery, 209 Technology Park Lane, Fuquay-Varina, NC 27526, Phone: 919-567-2337
For History Buffs
⮕ The Museums of Fuquay-Varina
Discover local history and see fascinating attractions in one quick trip.
To learn about the fascinating history of the town and explore some historic buildings, visitors should plan to visit the town on a Monday, Wednesday or Festival Day to tour the Museums. The museum complex is located just off Main Street and encompasses 6 separate buildings of historic interest. Visitors are advised to start their tour at the Centennial Museum, where a docent will meet you and guide you along your tour. The remaining 6 buildings which form the complex include the First Fuquay Post Office, the Squire Ballentine Schoolhouse, the Johnson Playhouse, the Tobacco Barn, and the Norfolk Southern Caboose #375. The museum tour is suitable for all ages and interests.
The Museums of Fuquay-Varina, 131 South Fuquay Ave, Fuquay-Varina, NC 27526, Phone: 919-552-5562
Where to Eat
⮕ Garibaldi Trattoria
Savor Italian flavors and enjoy a romantic evening for couples.
Named for the famous Franco-Italian military commander Guiseppi Garibaldi, Garibaldi Trattoria celebrates the excellence of Italian cuisine in Fuquay-Varina. The restaurant is conveniently located right on Main Street and is open for lunch and dinner. The extensive menu offers a good variety of antipasti, soups, salads and fresh, home-made pasta dishes as well as a selection of pizza and some mouth-watering entrees. The emphasis is on serving authentic Italian cuisine and great wines at an affordable price. House specialties include Zuppa di Pesci, a mélange of seafood in a delicious sauce served with linguini and house-made Ravioli de Aragosta – lobster ravioli with a creamy shrimp sauce
Garibaldi Trattoria, 900 North Main Street, Fuquay-Varina, NC 27526, Phone: 919-552-8868
⮕ Stick Boy Bread Company
Taste fresh-baked goods and explore this affordable local favorite.
Stick Boy Bread Company is a very popular bakery/coffee shop where locals and visitors can find the best bread, cookies, pastries and coffee in town. The bakery is run by a hands-on husband and wife team who take great care to ensure that every loaf of bread and cup of coffee is prepared just the way you like it. All the breads and sweet treats are made from scratch daily (favorites sell out quickly) and the bakery contracts with two specialist coffee roasters to bring the best Fair Trade coffee to your table. Bread varieties include Sourdough, Organic Whole Wheat, French Baguette, Sundried Tomato and Basil and many more. House-made pizza dough is available for you to take home and craft your own designer pizzas.
Stick Boy Bread Company, 127 South Main Street, Fuquay-Varina, NC 27526, Phone: 919-557-2237
⮕ Nil's Mediterranean Cuisine
Savor authentic dishes and enjoy a flavorful summer lunch.
Nil's Mediterranean Cuisine was established in 2000 and served breakfast and café meals for several years before new owners extended the offering to include lunches with a Mediterranean flair. With over 30 years of international experience as a chef, the new owner has recently started offering mouth-watering Mediterranean dinners in addition to his popular lunches. The menu offers a large selection of appetizers, soups, salads, sandwiches and flavorful Greek dishes like Gyro-grilled beef or chicken in pita bread or a wrap and a delicious phyllo pastry spinach pie. The menu offers a very good choice of dishes suitable for vegetarians.
Nil's Mediterranean Cuisine, 513 Broad St, Fuquay-Varina, NC 27526, Phone: 919-567-0887
Must-see if you are a first-time visitor:
- Downtown Fuquay & Downtown Varina – If you love boutique shopping, dining, and local character, explore both vibrant districts.
- Fuquay Mineral Spring Park – Visit the historic healing spring that gave the town its name and enjoy peaceful gardens.
- Carroll Howard Johnson Environmental Park – Hike woodland trails, cross rustic bridges, and enjoy nature close to town.
Where to Eat
- Stick Boy Bread Co. – Grab coffee, pastries, or a casual lunch in this cozy café and local favorite bakery.
- Nil’s Mediterranean Cuisine – Enjoy authentic Turkish and Mediterranean dishes with warm, welcoming service.
- Vicious Fishes Taproom & Kitchen – A hip spot for craft beer, creative burgers, and outdoor seating.
If you are interested in local events:
- Celebrate Fuquay-Varina Festival (October) – Live music, crafts, food trucks, kids’ activities, and community fun.
- Follow Me to Fuquay-Varina Concert Series (Spring/Fall) – Free outdoor concerts downtown with food vendors and local brews.
- En Plein Air Paint-Off (April) – Watch artists create outdoor scenes live and vote for your favorites.
If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes of Fuquay-Varina, North Carolina:
- Raleigh (30 min) – Visit museums, dine downtown, or stroll through scenic parks in North Carolina’s capital city.
- Holly Springs (15–20 min) – Catch a movie at the cinema, visit Bass Lake Park, or check out local eateries.
- Jordan Lake State Recreation Area (30 min) – Swim, boat, fish, or picnic by this sprawling reservoir and nature area.
- Apex (20–25 min) – Explore antique shops, breweries, and historic downtown charm in this neighboring town.
- Clayton (30 min) – Check out the Clayton Center for the Arts, walk the greenway, or catch a concert or market event.
- White Deer Park (25 min) – Nature center, walking trails, and picnic spots in nearby Garner.
FAQ:
- What is Fuquay-Varina known for?
- Originally a resort town centered around the Fuquay Mineral Spring Park, known for the healing powers of the spring water.
- What can visitors do at Fuquay Mineral Spring Park?
- Visitors can take a pleasant walk, have a picnic, or enjoy the spring water at the park.
- What historical attractions are there in Fuquay-Varina?
- There are several historic sites and buildings to visit, including the Fuquay-Varina Museum Complex and the historic district on a walking tour.
- What can children enjoy during the summer in Fuquay-Varina?
- Children can have loads of fun at the South Park Splash Pad during the summer months.
- What are some popular spots to grab a drink in Fuquay-Varina?
- Visitors can head to a couple of the town’s craft breweries or make their way to the Stick Boy Bread Company for the best cup of coffee in town.
Unique Breweries
At a Glance:
Best Time to Visit
Places to Stay
Top Activities
Spring (March-May) – Mild temperatures and beautiful blooms.
Hampton Inn & Suites Holly Springs – A comfortable and convenient stay nearby.
Visit Fuquay Mineral Spring Park – Enjoy a relaxing stroll in this historic park.
Summer (June-August) – Warm and great for outdoor events.
Comfort Inn & Suites Fuquay-Varina – A top-rated local hotel.
Explore Carroll Howard Johnson Environmental Park – A great spot for hiking and picnics.
Fall (September-November) – Pleasant weather and fall festivals.
Quality Inn Fuquay-Varina – A budget-friendly and cozy option.
Enjoy the Celebrate Fuquay-Varina Festival – A fun community event with food and music.
Winter (December-February) – Cool but great for holiday events.
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Raleigh SW – A modern stay with great amenities.
Visit Downtown Fuquay-Varina – Explore local shops, breweries, and holiday lights.
Plan Your Trip