Things to Do Near WakeMed Soccer Park in Cary, N.C.
Tuesday, July 29, 2025, 3pm
WakeMed Soccer Park is one of the premier soccer complexes in the U.S., located in Cary, N.C., just minutes from downtown Raleigh. The 150-acre venue is home to two professional teams—North Carolina Football Club and North Carolina Courage—and has hosted elite events such as the ACC Men’s and Women’s Soccer Championships, NCAA College Cup and the Nike Cross National Southeast Regional. With a 10,000-seat stadium, seven soccer fields and a dedicated cross-country course, the park attracts teams and spectators from across the country year-round.
Whether you’re visiting for a weekend tournament or catching a professional match, there’s no shortage of things to do near WakeMed Soccer Park before or after games.
Explore Fenton
Just a short drive from the park, Fenton is a mixed-use development in Cary with dining, shopping, entertainment and more (live music in the summer, ice skating in the winter!). Teams and spectators can unwind with a stroll through its shops, grab a sweet treat from Honeysuckle Gelato or enjoy a celebratory drink from one of its numerous bars like Dram & Draught and AVA Rooftop Bar.
Fenton is also home to several chef-driven restaurants perfect for team dinners. Options include M Sushi, helmed by acclaimed chef Michael Lee, and Crawford Brothers Steakhouse from award-winning chef Scott Crawford. For large group reservations, popular choices include Colletta, Superica, PBR Cowboy Bar Cary and Sports & Social.
Part restaurant, part entertainment hub, Sports & Social is a 20,000-square-foot, two-story destination that goes beyond the typical dining experience. Teams can enjoy a meal while watching games on a massive, 30-foot diagonal HD LED screen or compete in arcade games like skee-ball, shuffle puck, table tennis, air hockey and even a golf simulator. It’s a great spot for bonding, celebrating a big win or simply relaxing after a long day of competition.
Head to downtown Cary
If you’re looking for an easily walkable and charming spot to unwind, downtown Cary is just minutes away. Downtown Cary offers an array of attractions within a few blocks. Stay at the boutique Mayton, savor freshly baked pastries at La Farm Bakery or enjoy acclaimed dining at Faulisi Caffè & Enoteca, MC Restaurant, SAAP or Geluna Gelato for a sweet finish.
When it comes to nightlife, sip local brews at Bond Brothers Beer Company, grab cocktails at The Walk Up or toast with champagne at RBF, Your Authentic Champagne Bar. For a little friendly competition, head to Graffiti, an axe-throwing bar, or The Albatross, where teams can take swings at a high-tech golf simulator.
Get outdoors
Cary is also rich in outdoor attractions, ideal for active teams. The recently opened Downtown Cary Park, a seven-acre, state-of-the-art public space, has quickly become a must-visit. Visitors can take in views from the Skywalk, grab coffee at Market 317, enjoy a craft beer at The Bark Bar or gather around fire pits after exploring the playground, sports lawn, performing arts pavilion and dog park.
For a bigger adventure, Fred G. Bond Metro Park—a 310-acre oasis—offers picnic shelters, athletic fields, hiking trails, a challenge course and even a 300-seat amphitheater. Beyond Cary, the Raleigh area’s 200 miles of greenways invite visitors to hike, bike or run through beautiful natural landscapes. Click here to learn more.
Nearby attractions also include the JC Raulston Arboretum at North Carolina State University and the North Carolina Museum of Art (NCMA). The JC Raulston Arboretum offers 10 acres of themed gardens and walking trails. Art lovers can visit NCMA home to a renowned collection, outdoor trails and sculpture gardens.
The area around WakeMed Soccer Park offers plenty to see and do. From dining and entertainment at Fenton to the charm of Downtown Cary and nearby attractions like JC Raulston Arboretum and NCMA, it’s easy to make the most of your time on and off the field.
The Greater Raleigh Sports Alliance (GRSA) is always pleased to assist you with questions and requests related to sports event planning in Greater Raleigh. Contact Jason Philbeck, STS, GRSA associate director, if you are interested in hosting your next event in Raleigh, N.C., named Best Sports Host City by SportsTravel Magazine!