Stretch Out the Summer With a Day Trip!

July 08, 2025

Cotton Farms, a Fuquay-Varina community filled with fabulous new-construction floor plans, offers a blissful spot for homeowners to enjoy North Carolina’s countryside while having easy access to endless activities. Custom-built homes sit on generous lots where residents enjoy the natural beauty from spacious screened porches. Summer is a favorite season of many here, but it often goes by too quickly! Ready to stretch out your summer fun beyond the charming streets of Cotton Farms? There are memories to be made just a short drive away, no matter which direction the day takes you.

When the heat of the summer is at its peak, cool down with a day on the water.

Falls Lake Recreation Area is less than an hour from Cotton Farms. It is the perfect place to fish, hike, and splash within a gorgeous landscape. Pack a lunch for a midday picnic!
Fuquay Mineral Spring Park is a historic, local spot whose waters were once a famed healing destination! Today, the mineral spring is covered by a gazebo and is steps away from boutique-lined streets.
Jordan Lake spans nearly 14,000 acres and has 180 miles of shoreline just waiting for visitors to sit a spell. Hiking trails are tree-lined and a favorite spot for bald eagles to build their nests. Boats are available for day rentals at this favorite destination.
The Neuse River is lined with small businesses offering tubes, kayaks, and paddle boards making it easy to choose your transport for floating the day away. Don’t forget to pack snacks and sunscreen for some midsummer zen!
Saxapahaw, NC is just 90 minutes west of Fuquay-Varina and is experiencing a revival as an arts-meets-water hotspot! With summer concerts, farmer’s markets, and micro-breweries, there is something for all ages. For water bugs, kayaks and paddle boards are available for use on the Haw River.
South Park’s Splash Pad, in Fuquay-Varina, is bustling from Memorial Day to Labor Day as its buckets and jets delight all who visit. Take a stroll along the Jeff Wells Memorial Trail before cooling down in the splash pad.

For a day-trip that stays on the dry side, options are just a short drive away.

Apex and Cary, NC, each sit just 20 minutes away from Cotton Farms, offering a nice change of scenery for those who love small-town charm but want a new view. With quaint downtown spaces, tranquil parks, and terrific food, both offer a delightful day.
Breweries Galore! Central North Carolina is well-known for its barbecue and basketball, but did you know it is also a hotspot for craft breweries? Fuquay-Varina has three (Aviator Brewing, Mason Jar Lager Company, and Fainting Goat Brewing Company), and the trend continues in nearly every direction. From Raleigh’s Neuse River Brewing Company to Durham’s Durty Bull Brewing Company and beyond, North Carolina is home to over three hundred craft breweries.
Pilot Mountain stretches to the sky, offering unbelievable views to visitors. Hike Little Pinnacle Overlook or Mountain Trail for breathtaking, sweeping sites! Pilot Mountain is about two hours away from the Cotton Farms community–perfect for a picturesque day!
Washington, NC, known as “Little Washington,” sits east of Fuquay-Varina among North Carolina’s Inner Banks. The Pamlico River offers a beautiful backdrop for serene boardwalks, a waterfront Underground Railroad Museum, and delicious seafood restaurants. Don’t forget to grab a Bill’s hot dog while exploring downtown Washington.

Maximizing a Day Trip is Easy with Just a Few Tips:

Plan Ahead: Create a rough agenda for the day that leaves room for flexibility.
Check Event Schedules: No matter which direction you’re pointed, check for pop-up activities in the days before leaving. These can be a welcome discovery or a reason to steer clear, depending on your preferences.
Start Early: Beat traffic, heat, and crowds by starting early. This will also leave more time to explore on the return end!
Pack Snacks: Bring snacks or a picnic. Many day trips will lead you to the ideal location to enjoy a little al fresco dining.
Bring Layers: While it may be hot in the sun, riverbanks and shaded trails can be chilly. Bring an extra layer so that your day isn’t shortened by surprise drops in temperatures.
Multi-Stop: Combining more than one activity into a stop is a great way to keep everyone happy. Choose a restaurant that sits among cute shops or a brewery that offers games for kids.

The Cotton Farms community is growing quickly as new homeowners put their design dreams into place among the rolling hills of central North Carolina. While there are still home sites available, they are going quickly to the lucky residents. If you haven’t explored this community yet, include a stop at Cotton Farms on your next day trip! Available homes are open for tours each Saturday and Sunday from 12 pm to 3 pm.

Find your future at Cotton Farms!