Fuquay-Varina
A Dash More! Written by Madison
Just 15 miles south of Raleigh, this lively family-friendly community is one of the fastest growing towns in North Carolina. In 1963 Fuquay Springs and Varina merged to create the town known today. Once built on tobacco and farming, Fuquay-Varina has been able to retain its small town charm full of rich history while successfully adding modern amenities. With two beautiful downtown districts, a thriving art scene, a variety of festivals, and award-winning breweries, Fuquay-Varina offers a dash more for those seeking adventure.
Parks
Fuquay-Varina has 20 parks with more than 500 acres spread throughout the town, the most notable being Fuquay Mineral Spring Park. Discovered in 1858, the Mineral Spring was believed to have healing powers and visitors came from all over to drink the mineral water. The town commemorates the spring with a restored Springhouse, memorial brick path, and renovated footbridge. The spectacularly landscaped scenery and picnic areas make it a great family outing for any time of the year.
Breweries
Fuquay-Varina is home to several award winning breweries; Aviator, Mason Jar, Fainting Goat, & Vicious Fishes to name a few. With live music, game nights, special events, and delicious food, you’ll be sure to have a great time at any location. Looking for a unique beer flight? Stop by Pints to try a beer and ice cream flight or a boozy milkshake flight. Can’t decide which brewery to go to first? Hop a ride on the BrewQuay Prowler! Hitting all the best stops in an open air rail buggy, you’ll be sure to find your new favorite brew.
Dining
It’s no secret the culinary scene is booming in Raleigh. With only a 20 minute drive to downtown Raleigh you have endless options to choose from. But you don’t have to drive out of Fuquay to find great eats! For over two decades Joyce & Family Restaurant has been a staple in downtown Fuquay. They are known for their signature brand of made from scratch southern home cooking. Taking the top spot in Fuquay is Garibaldi Trattoria. This family operated restaurant brings authentic Italian dishes as well as an extensive wine list with over 50 wines to choose from. New to Fuquay is Little Portugal. Starting out as a small home-based business, they now have a store front offering authentic Portuguese cuisine as well as market items. From local home cooking to authentic cuisine, Fuquay-Varina has plenty to offer.
Art
The Fuquay-Varina Arts Center is a main feature in downtown and was a long held dream for the community. It is a combination of new construction and renovated space of what was previously a Belk’s department store. It features a 294 seat theater, art gallery, digital studios, and classrooms for a variety of visual and performing arts classes. The Arts Center is a community favorite to see local talent on display.
Schools
Fuquay-Varina is part of the Wake County Public School System. This is the largest school system in the state and one of the top performing large systems in the nation. Fuquay-Varina has seven elementary schools, one middle school, two high schools, and one public charter school. A brand new middle school has begun construction as well as a new design for the Fuquay-Varina Middle School. Just outside of Fuquay-Varina is Wake Technical Community College. Wake Tech is the largest community college in the state with approximately 70,000 students.
Fuquay-Varina offers charm, history, and plenty to experience for a one day getaway or for those looking to set down roots.
