Located in the most military-friendly state of North Carolina, Fort Bragg has much leaning in its favor. Ft. Bragg is the largest military installation in the world – the WORLD – covering more than 160,000 acres. In total, more than 260,000 call the base home, with more than 54,000 active duty troops at any given time.
But Bragg is more than just a place to live while stationed in the area, it’s a place to call home. Take a look at the reasons so many flock to Fort Bragg and ask to be placed in this location time and time again.
1. Cape Fear
This incredible coastal landscape spans miles and miles along the North Carolina countryside. Part of the “Graveyard of the Atlantic,” where many boats are known to wreck (hence the name, fear), it’s a space of natural beauty and then some. From hiking, to boat tours along Cape Fear River and a colorful botanical garden, residents and guests alike are able to find solace in this gift from Mother Nature.
2. The locals LOVE military
The nearby town of Fayetteville is almost creepily obsessed with military members and their families. The area is also known as “America’s First Sanctuary City for Military Families,” and has been named the most patriotic city in the country.
Sure they have the nickname Fayet-nam, but locals discount the name every chance they get … and instead choose to brag on their military population and what they bring to the area.
3. The museums
Love history? Fort Bragg is home to many sites that are great for spending the afternoon, whether you’re a Brat on a field trip, or looking for a way to keep your in-laws occupied. The Fayetteville Area Transportation and History Museum, Airborne and Special Operations Museum, and Fascinate-U Children’s Museum, which is perfect for littles, all call the area home.
4. It’s great for travel
Love moderate seasons? Easy access to airports? Amtrak? What about golfing? (They have two courses!) There are also two airfields, allowing for ample training space. Bragg is located conveniently between the mountains and beaches, giving you the best of all of the above. Even if you move there and hate it – which we highly doubt will happen – you can travel with ease.
5. It’s a city with all of the amenities
You’ve all heard nightmare stories about being stationed at a post with stores miles away. (Maybe you’ve even been stationed there yourself.) At Bragg, this won’t be a problem. The base itself is a small city, with everything from food, restaurants, entertainment, schools, activities, and more. Residents will have access to everything they need, and then some, in quick proximity.
6. It has incredible, authentic restaurants
Want to try a new favorite? Or a taste of home? Bragg and the surrounding area has you covered. Known as “conflict food,” AKA restaurants that popped up after any major war, they’ve got authentic dishes from virtually every culture. And you can try them all during your time in North Carolina. (Just don’t forget to leave reviews so the rest of us can find the best stops.)
7. It’s a great stop for working spouses and nonprofits
Because of its size, Fort Bragg brings in plenty of resources for both military spouses and anyone looking for military-related resources. It’s true that these programs are offered at all military posts, but because it’s such a large post, Fort Bragg is known for offering more of these types of resources. It’s certainly a perk for anyone heading to this post or considering a visit.
What are your favorite things about Fort Bragg? Tell us below: