As the summer heat fades and crisp breezes rustle through the trees, central North Carolina’s residents rediscover adventures right around the corner. With a variety of beautiful communities across the area, residents of JSJ Builders’ neighborhoods have endless options for fall fun. Imagine leaving your custom-built home and finding a new favorite activity within minutes! From family-friendly festivals, outdoor adventure, and cozy cafes, autumn exploration is now open for business. 

Fayetteville: Patriotism Meets Outdoor Adventure!

• Hit the Cape Fear River Trail to find cooler temperatures and vibrant foliage. Fall is the perfect season to walk, bike, or jog the Cape Fear River Trail. Its 5-mile paved path winds through scenic wetlands and hardwood forests.
• A visit to the Airborne & Special Operations Museum is both educational and moving as it honors the legacy of elite U.S. Army units. The immersive exhibits transport visitors through the history of paratroopers and special forces. 
• Downtown Fayetteville is brimming with charm. Spend a fall afternoon browsing local boutiques, checking out the mural art, or enjoying a meal on the patio at one of the many farm-to-table restaurants. Seasonal dishes made with local sweet potatoes, collards, and North Carolina pork are in abundance this time of year.
• The International Folk Festival celebrates Fayetteville’s rich cultural diversity. Mark your calendar for the last weekend in September!
• Beartoberfest is a fun-filled event with an entertaining facial hair competition aimed at camaraderie as well as philanthropy to better the local community. 

La Grange: A Hidden Gem with Bold Flavor and Big Sky

• Thanks to La Grange’s proximity to Seymour Johnson AFB, residents of A&G Residential’s newly built homes catch flyovers of F-15 fighter jets—especially around fall’s holidays. It is quite common to see the skies filled with the country’s best pilots as they perform training maneuvers year-round.
• For outdoor enthusiasts, Cliffs of the Neuse State Park is a must-visit. This natural wonder features dramatic cliffs that overlook the Neuse River—perfect for hiking, leaf peeping, or simply enjoying a picnic under a canopy of fall colors. The park’s scenic overlooks offer incredible photo ops, especially during peak foliage season in late October. And, with minimal light pollution, stargazing here is spectacular.
• Downtown Goldsboro’s Public Arts Trail combines art and exploration with a self-guided walking tour of the city’s colorful murals.
• The Wayne County Museum showcases the area’s history while also hosting events throughout the year, such as trivia or plays featuring local actors.

Johnston County: Farm-Fresh Fun, Local Flavor, and Rich Roots!

• Drive through Johnston County in the fall, and you will be treated to a magical landscape! As leaves turn shades of crimson and gold, the gently rolling hills offer a postcard-perfect backdrop. Hop off the main corridors and explore or follow one of these Fall Foliage guides. 
• The Johnston County Heritage Trail is popular among history buffs as it explores the region’s unique contributions to North Carolina’s story. Visit the Ava Gardner Museum in Smithfield before a stop at the Bentonville Battlefield State Historic Site, one of the most significant Civil War battlefields in the state.
• Celebrate at Local Festivals! Favorites for Johnston County residents include Benson Mule Days and the Smithfield Ham & Yam Festival. Benson Mule Days celebrate the area’s agricultural roots with a parade, rodeo, and live music. While the Ham & Yam Festival is a huge spring event, coordinators offer “pop-up” events throughout the fall. 
• Sip, Savor & Shine on the Johnston County Beer & Wine Trail. This self-guided tour includes stops at wineries, breweries, and distilleries. Fall flavors like pumpkin beer and mulled wine are seasonal specialties worth trying.

There’s a particular kind of magic in central North Carolina come fall, as the heat of summer has passed but the excitement of exploration is just getting started. Focus on the three L’s for a winning adventure!

• Leaves: Fall foliage in Central and Eastern NC typically peaks between late October and early November. Check local foliage trackers to time your visit for the most stunning views.
• Layers: Fall weather can shift quickly—start the day with a sweater, and you may be in short sleeves by lunch. Bring layers, and don’t forget comfortable walking shoes for trails or downtown strolls.
• Local: Small towns thrive when visitors eat, shop, and stay local. Whether it’s a family-run BBQ joint, a boutique selling handmade goods, or a bed-and-breakfast, your support goes a long way.

This fall, discover a new trail in Goldsboro, sip cider in Johnston County, or stroll the historic streets of Fayetteville. Better yet, do all three! Get out, breathe in that crisp autumn air, and fall in love with North Carolina all over again. JSJ Builders is currently building beautiful new homes in over a dozen central North Carolina communities featuring a variety of fabulous floorplans. With price points ranging from the mid $200s to the mid $500s, we have options for everyone’s homebuying journey.

Reach out to the team at JSJ Builders today and start exploring your new community this fall!