Families come to Fayetteville for a lot of reasons: a Green Beret graduation, a homecoming, a PCS move, or a long weekend with their Soldier. Getting on post takes a little planning, and in 2026 there's a big change at the main gate. Here's what to know before you go.
Fort Liberty or Fort Bragg? Same post
The post was renamed Fort Liberty in 2023 and changed back to Fort Bragg in 2025. You'll still see Fort Liberty on some websites, signs and paperwork. It's the same place, right next to Fayetteville.
Heads-up: the All American Gate is closed
The All American Gate closed on July 27, 2026 so crews can rebuild part of the All American Freeway and replace Gruber Bridge. Fort Bragg says the gate could stay closed for up to two years.
The All American Visitor Center is still open. Plan extra driving time, use another gate, and request your pass online before you leave home.
Get your visitor pass online first
- Up to 30 days before your visit, go to pass.aie.army.mil and choose Army, then Fort Bragg, then Visitor Pass. The online option is for U.S. citizens with a REAL ID-compliant license and a mobile phone.
- Have every adult in your car apply. Everyone 18 and older needs a background check.
- Wait for the text. Requests are reviewed during visitor center hours, and you'll hear whether you're approved.
- Show your REAL ID license at any open gate. Once you're approved, it works as your pass.
No REAL ID? Go to the All American Visitor Control Center, open 5 a.m. to 9 p.m. every day. Details are on Fort Bragg's visitor information page. Check it again the week you travel, since gate hours and steps change.
Special Forces graduation week
Graduating from the Special Forces Qualification Course is when a Soldier is formally welcomed into the Special Forces Regiment. At the Regimental First Formation, new Green Berets put on the beret for the first time in front of family and friends. It's one of the proudest days a military family gets to share.
Your Soldier will get the date and pass along times and locations. Some ceremonies have been held off post in Fayetteville and some events are on post, so get your visitor passes either way.
Other reasons families come to Fayetteville
- Homecomings. Return dates can move with little notice. Flexible plans and a place with room to gather make the wait easier.
- PCS moves and house hunting. A furnished house with a full kitchen and a washer and dryer beats a hotel room while you look for your next place.
- Museums. The Airborne and Special Operations Museum is in downtown Fayetteville, off post, so no pass is needed. The JFK Special Warfare Museum is on post and open to the public with a visitor pass.
"When I reached out to Danny with any questions, he literally responded within 5 minutes. He went out of his way to make our stay fantastic!"
Lisa, Keizer, Oregon
Where to stay near Fort Bragg with a big group
Sweet Caroline
Summertime / Terry Sanford neighborhood, minutes from Fort Bragg
- 5 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, room for 16 or more
- Private pool and hot tub
- Outdoor movie theater and fire pit
- Game room and speakeasy lounge
- Washer and dryer, free parking, pets welcome
Booking direct on our site saves you 5%, and you'll hear from us, not a call center.
Frequently asked questions
Is Fort Liberty the same as Fort Bragg?
Yes. It was called Fort Liberty from 2023 until it went back to Fort Bragg in 2025.
Is the All American Gate open?
No. It closed on July 27, 2026 for construction that could last up to two years. The All American Visitor Center is still open.
Can I get on Fort Bragg without a military ID?
Yes, with a visitor pass after a background check. Apply online at pass.aie.army.mil, or go to the All American Visitor Control Center if you don't have a REAL ID.
How far ahead can I request a pass?
Up to 30 days before your visit.
Where can a big family stay near Fort Bragg?
Sweet Caroline sleeps 16 or more, with a pool, hot tub and outdoor movie theater, minutes from post.
Questions about dates or the house? Send us a message. We usually answer within the hour.