Fayetteville is a friendly town – warm and congenial, a small city with a big heart.

We spent 6 nights in this not-so-sleepy military mecca. Our favorite highlights?

We planted a garden for the Salvation Army. Our hands got dirty. Our feet got bit (by ants!). After an afternoon of work in the North Carolina breeze, we ended up with a young garden – zucchini and tomato plants in a row. The vegetables will help feed the homeless later this summer.

We explored the Cape Fear Botanical Gardens. A stunning paradise of 77 acres, the gardens would be the perfect backdrop for a wedding, bloggers reception, or business event. Admission is $8 for adults ($2.50 for kids ages 6-12; FREE for kids 5 and under).

We walked through history at the Airborne & Special Operations Museum. Although it is not the best choice for young children, this museum offers a fascinating glimpse at our armed forces – past and present. There are a number of visual displays of soldiers, jeeps, planes, and more. Best of all, the museum is completely free.

We sampled new beers at The Mash House Brewery and Chophouse. By “we,” I mean: “Tim.” Tim enjoys locally brewed beers – particularly porters and stouts. I’m not a beer drinker, but I did enjoy my club sandwich. The girls were delighted by the [$5] kids menu that included a huge portion of macaroni & cheese, a drink, and an ice cream sundae.

Have you every been to Fayetteville? What did you like/not like about it?

What restaurant in your area has the best children’s menu (and how much is it)?

* Special thanks to the Fayetteville Area Convention & Visitors Bureau for providing passes for area attractions.