Downtown Fayetteville is seeing some changes, from the renovations to the Market House, new businesses setting up shop, and even some closing the door. One thing is for sure, there is no shortage of space—parking is a whole different topic— and potential in the area. The building off Maiden Lane downtown next to Segra Stadium has been an underutilized space for some time, but 2025 has brought two new businesses to the once vacant building.
The building is now home to two new businesses: The Gathering Place and Sol’s Arcade + Taproom at 421 Maiden Lane, a much-appreciated sight among the vacant buildings for lease on Hay Street. The location is prime downtown real estate. It’s walking distance from the baseball stadium, bars, and restaurants, like Gaston’s and Blue Moon.
The Gathering Place is not your average event center. The event center was established to provide a quality space where “community meets celebration.” It boasts an event center, communal workspace, and community gathering space. The beautifully remodeled space is available for rent 7 days a week, with weekday rates as low as $300 and $600 for the weekend, and can accommodate events of all sizes, from large-scale to intimate.
Chairs, tables, and basic amenities are included in event packages as well as access to the outside patio space. The space is currently adding a prep kitchen to better serve clients and caterers. Entrepreneurs and businesses alike are encouraged to check out the communal workspace or business hub. This area provides small office spaces, which can be rented out by the hour, and a large space for conferences and larger meetings, and custom rental options.
The new downtown business is dedicated to bringing the Fayetteville community together. This summer and fall, every Fourth Friday, TGP will host a market on the outside patio area, Fourth Friday on the Lawn. Vendors, large and small, are encouraged to participate. They are currently looking for food trucks, mobile eats, pop-up shops, vendors, artists, creatives, community businesses, live performers, and entertainers. The vendor fee is only $10, and spaces are limited.
To sign up as a vendor, contact them via social media at The Gathering Place Fay.
Along with the weekend markets, The Gathering Place is hosting Business Meet & Greets. The next one is Friday, June 14, starting at 11 a.m. This event is an opportunity for business owners to network with one another, check out the business hub space, and make lasting connections. All attendees will get a guided tour of the business hub, an update on everything happening at TGP, and guest speakers. Chef Joy will provide a catered lunch of sandwiches, snacks, and refreshments. This event is free, but registration is required. To register, vist https://bit.ly/4mp8UW3.
For more information on The Gathering Place, visit the website at https://thegatheringplace.live/.