In search of the best and fun things to do in Southern Pines, NC? Southern Pines is a North Carolina town in Moore County.
The lovely town of Southern Pines was first established as a winter health resort for northerners.
Southern Pines features its attractions nestled among longleaf and loblolly pines in what is referred to as “sand country. ”
Although the town is known for horses and golf, it has several locally owned shops, fabulous restaurants, and stunning trails nearby.
Additionally, it has successful performance and visual art scenes. With several Southern Pines attractions and activities, it is undoubtedly the ideal getaway in the central part of North Carolina.
Are you planning an exploration of Southern Pines? Check out the top things to do in Southern Pines, NC.
Things to Do in Southern Pines, NC
1. Uncover historical events at Shaw House Property
Shaw House Property
The Shaw House Property is a museum complex operated by the Moore County Historical Association.
The primary building is the Shaw House, constructed in the 19th century. Within this location, many historical structures show life in the county in the past.
It’s been perfectly preserved by the historical association and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1993.
You will discover other structures as you explore the grounds, such as a corn crib, cabin, and tobacco barn.
These offer a peek at an agricultural era that depended on simple practices and technologies.
Address: 110 W Morganton Rd, Southern Pines, NC 28387, United States
2. Go fishing at Reservoir Park
Among the best things to do in Southern Pines, NC, is to fish at Reservoir Park.
Reservoir Park, located on the outskirts of the town, is among its outstanding attractions.
It is a massive green space spanning 165 acres. There is a reservoir in the center serving as the primary geographical feature.
Encircling this body of waters are trails and forests that run for over 12 miles. Within these wooded areas, visitors will find clearings with modern amenities where they can stay.
You can grill meat, picnic, and play disc golf with your family and friends. If you are feeling more adventurous, you can hike the trails or explore them on a mountain bike.
The lake is open for activities like fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
Watercraft with gas engines are prohibited to preserve the reservoir’s pristine state.
Address: 300 Reservoir Park Dr, Southern Pines, NC 28387, United States
3. Hike the trails of Weymouth Woods – Sandhills Nature Preserve
The Peace Weymouth Woods- Sandhills Nature Park is located on the southernmost end of the town.
This frequently-visited attraction encompasses 195 acres of massive woodlands, meadows, and James Creek flowing right in the center.
The state park’s primary feature is the longleaf pine forests that cover valleys and slopes.
Due to the sparse understory of these forests, there is exceptional visibility for wildlife encounters and birdwatching.
So keep your eyes peeled for rare species like Pine Barrens, tree frogs, and red-cockaded woodpeckers.
James Creek, another ecological marvel, features acidic and tannin-stained waters.
As a result of these features, it’s become a sanctuary to the sandhills chubs and the rare mud sunfish, only discovered in the Sandhill regions.
Hiking the trails of Weymouth Woods – Sandhills Nature Preserve is undoubtedly one of the fun things to do in Southern Pines, NC.
Address: 1024 N Fort Bragg Rd, Southern Pines, NC 28387, United States
4. Check out restaurants in Downtown
This city’s historic downtown also serves as its commercial center, so you will discover many businesses in the section.
Broad Street, especially has the most restaurants in town. So if you want to taste the delicious Southern Cuisines of North Carolina, head over here.
Southern Prime Steakhouse has a more refined approach to food, with a menu of top-tier beef cuts and bottles of impressive wines.
If you have a sweet tooth, visit Betsy’s Crepes and pick from their selection of yummy sweets.
There is also Beefeaters, a simple hangout place that offers mouthwatering entrees and a colossal salad beer.
Grab a chilled beer at the Hatchet Brewing Company to complete your Southern Pines tour.
Address: Southern Pine, NC, United States
5. Play a round or two at Mid Pines Inn and Golf Club
Test your golf skills at Mid Pines Inn and Golf Club. Several people consider the Pinehurst-Southern Pines- Aberdeen area as a golfing utopia in this part of the country.
In this town alone, a few stunning courses are visited by amateurs and experts alike.
One of these is the majestic Mid Pines Inn and Golf Club, located close to the historic downtown.
It is an internationally acknowledged golf course with scenic fields and manicured fairways.
Tourists will discover 18 holes on a challenging layout that will test their course management skills.
And if you are looking for where to stay during your tour of the town, the Inn offers comfortable accommodation for your tired body.
Address: 1010 Midland Rd, Southern Pines, NC 28387, United States
6. Honor literature at Weymouth Center for The Arts & Humanities
Weymouth Center for The Arts & Humanities is where creativity and human talent in the town are lauded.
It used to be a part of the vast Weymouth property bought by the grandfather of author James Boyd to preserve the forests in the region.
This is why Weymouth Woods- Sandhills Nature Preserve has the same name as this center. The center used to be a part of the expansive property before it was donated to the local government.
James Boyd constructed a winter house back then and now stands as the major building of the Weymouth Center for The Arts & Humanities.
Here James’ dearest pursuits, such as literature, nature, and music, are preserved and celebrated.
Tours of the house are available, allowing you to see the stunning antique furnishings of the interiors and the lush grounds outside.
The North Carolina Literature Hall of Fame is also situated here, with photos, books, and memorabilia of North Carolina’s prolific writers on display.
Address: 555 E Connecticut Ave Box 939, Southern Pines, NC 28388, United States
7. Marvel at the specimens in Creation Museum
Creation Museum
One of the best places to visit in Southern Pines, NC, is Creation Museum.
Some people may find the extraordinary Creation Museum disturbing, but others would be curious.
This facility, situated in a Christian bookstore, is home to taxidermied animals, antique tools, and other strange artifacts.
It is part of the owner’s goal to foster “the Genesis account of creation.”
Whether you accept this idea or not, it is still an intriguing experience to see all the animals in the state in one place, which can be lawfully hunted and preserved.
These include wolves, deer heads, canine specimens, and fur-bearing trout-a mythical creature that allegedly lives in the cold lakes of the United States.
The museum accommodates over 200 animals, so take your time to look at the preserved animals up close.
Address: 156 NW Broad St, Southern Pines, NC 28387, United States
8. Ride a horse at Walthour-Moss Foundation
The lovely Walthour-Moss Foundation is the most notable attraction in Southern Pines, encompassing 4,000 acres.
It is also among the least developed ones, with unspoiled wilderness maintained in honor of William O. Moss, a land preservation supporter who cherished the wildlife.
The pristine beauty of this attraction makes it a perfect location for outdoor adventures, particularly horseback riding
So while here, anticipate thundering hooves approaching you as you check out the numerous trails.
It is also a haven for the wildlife native to the Sandhills region, so watch out for rare flora and fauna.
Some include fluttering insects, colorful wildflowers, and tiny mammals scampering about in the undergrowth.
Head to the blackwater creek running in the center of the preserve, to increase your chances of seeing these animals.
Address: 226 Equestrian Rd, Southern Pines, NC 28387, United States
9. Partake in a community event at Downtown Park
Downtown Park, as implied by the name, is situated in the crowded centers of Southern Pines.
Its location makes it one of the most easily accessible attractions around the area, with the Creation Museum and numerous restaurants a few steps away.
Staff from nearby establishments come here during breaks or after work to relax.
Although it is not as massive as the other attractions, Downtown Park still contains large spaces for every guest.
You can sit on the benches and enjoy the gorgeous, verdant scenery. Or you can go to the lit basketball or tennis courts to play a round or two with your buddies.
If you are lucky, you can also catch the numerous events held at the park, such as Autumnfest, Movies in the Park, and the seasonal farmers market.
Address: SE Broad St, Southern Pines, NC 28387, United States
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10. Play golf at Longleaf Golf & Family Club
Longleaf Golf & Family, a top-tier semi-private facility, welcomes locals from Southern Pines and Pinehurst and tourists worldwide.
The Dan Maples-designed layout and the Bill Bergin-remodeled layout provide some of the best playing opportunities in both Carolinas.
Furthermore, guests to the sites and members can register for classes at the U. S. Kids Golf Academy, the massive practice range, and the fast six holes at Bottlebrush Short Course.
Visitors will find a championship golf course, terrific dining options, and other facilities at the popular Longleaf Golf & Family Club.
Visit Longleaf Golf & Family Club to uncover why it grew as one of the most loved establishments.
Address: 10 Knoll Rd #2900, Southern Pines, NC 28387, United States
11. Enjoy the green spaces at Sandhurst Park
Among what to do in Southern Pines, NC, is to have a date with nature at Sandhurst Park.
The 4-acre Sandhurst Park is a well-loved gathering space for residents, and you are welcome to visit.
Beneath the thick canopy of trees are modern amenities for everybody to enjoy.
There is a well-maintained playground with many shadings, making it ideal for kids to have fun and meet new people.
For those bringing the entire family, you can have a fun cookout in the picnic area, which features grilling stations.
You can also take your four-legged furry friend if they are leashed.
But if you desire a calm afternoon under the shade, there are many areas where you can spread a blanket and relax.
Address: 134 Barcroft Ct, Southern Pines, NC 28387, United States
12. Admire art at Raven Pottery
Raven Pottery is Anne Raven Jorgensen’s workshop. Her workshop serves as a sales gallery and is where she makes her artwork.
The most current examples of her works and pieces produced by many other clever North Carolina artists may be found in the sales gallery.
Every piece is handcrafted, unique, and contains a little dose of Anne’s passion.
The pottery is hand-decorated in different styles, and the collection is frequently updated.
Visit Raven Pottery, and you may find what you have been looking for.
Address: 260 W Pennsylvania Ave #5431, Southern Pines, NC 28387, United States
13. Watch a show at Sunrise Theater
Sunrise Theater is the epicenter for entertainment and performance art in Southern Pines.
With its 1940s moviehouse theme, the theater has an old-school vibe, complete with a marquee and neon lights.
It has been recently refurbished to accommodate the needs of a modern audience, so anticipate excellent seating, lighting, and sounds.
With these features, you can conveniently watch indie flicks, movies, and arthouse films.
You can also watch live performances like music concerts and operas, showcasing the best of the town and neighboring towns.
The theater has only 360 seats, so if you want a secured seat, booking your tickets in advance is advisable.
Check out their calendar so you can see their list of upcoming shows.
Address: 250 NW Broad St, Southern Pines, NC 28387, United States
14. Purchase a book at Given Book Shop & Outpost
This attraction is a library-sponsored bookshop that assures only high-quality used books.
The earnings from the sales of books in Given Books Shop & Outpost go straight to the Given Memorial Library fundraising campaign.
They arrange events like lectures and workshops, to which they will extend an invitation, so feel free to stop by.
Volunteers manage the bookshop; when they are not selling books, they promote community events.
The bookshop’s buildings can be rented for business functions or private parties.
The Given Book Shop is fully dedicated to supporting their community and history, encircling the incredible Given Memorial Library within the center of Pinehurst.
Address: 95 Cherokee Rd, Pinehurst, NC 28374, United States
15. Have a delightful dinner at Full Moon Oyster Bar
Full Moon Oyster Bar
The Full Moon Oyster Bar is a popular bar and seafood restaurant located in Southern Pines and other cities in North Carolina.
Their creative entrees and soups are one of the best in the Southeast, thanks to their use of fine seafood and handcrafted recipes. They offer prepared grills, baked and a few fried dishes.
Regulars and guests are rewarded with more than a tasty meal when they come to this bar.
Given the vibrant ambiance and happy expressions of the seafood lovers seated next to you, you will feel elated.
Drop in and have a glass of refreshing beer or wine, and you will discover that nobody is a stranger at Full Moon Oyster Bar.
Address: 134 Brucewood Rd, Southern Pines, NC 28387, United States
16. Feel a sense of peace in Spiritquest
You can find Spiritquest in the center of the Downtown Area. Fall madly in love with all the alleys, trees, and blooms decorating the specialized stores, cafes, galleries, and restaurants.
Spiritquest is dedicated to reviving harmony in your health, soul, and mind by combining cutting-edge medical technology with tested and authentic therapeutic methods that have existed for a century.
They provide many holistic methods and services, allowing them to design a therapeutic experience tailored to your requirements.
Pick a message of the day from one of their inspirational cards, check out their gift store, and put down a name of a loved one in their healing prayer fountain.
Address: 135 E Pennsylvania Ave, Southern Pines, NC 28387, United States
17. Go on a Sandhills Pour Tour
If you are a beer lover, you want to get a passport for the Sandhills Pour Tour. The passport contains places for stamps at six various area breweries and one cidery, making it seven locations.
After you have collected the stamps, you can take them to the Convention & Visitors Bureau for some exciting prizes.
The brewery included on the passport are Southern Pines Brewing Co, Hatchet Brewing Co, Pinehurst Brewing Co, Railhouse Brewery, and Southern Pine Growler.
The cidery on the passport is James Creek Cider House, located in Cameron.
If you want to visit numerous spots in a day, you can use a Lyft or an Uber.
You can also discover car and taxi services via the QR code on the passport.
Address: North Carolina, United States
18. Spend a day with nature at Wicker Park
The 103-acre Wicker Park on Rassie Wicker Drive is teeming with different amenities.
Several facilities available within the community park include a bocce court, soccer field, splash pad, two tennis courts, in-line hockey, and more.
Guests will also enjoy finding a comprehensive trail system and a stunning playground.
Whether you want to burn off the day with some exercise or stop by and allow your kids to play, Wicker Park is guaranteed to meet your needs.
The Arboretum features 33 acres of captivating gardens to host weddings, receptions, and other events.
You can stroll through Timmel Pavilion, Joyce’s Meadow, the Magnolia Lawn, and the Pergola Garden to admire the sights or play a bocce ball or croquet game.
Address: 10 Rassie Wicker Dr, Pinehurst, NC 28374, United States
19. Tour the Sandhills Wine Trail
Aside from having a Pour Tour, Moore County also has a wine trail. Touring this Wine Trail is one of the top things to do in Southern Pines, NC.
This activity operates in the same manner as the Pour Tour Passport. As you go to the locations on the passport, you will gather a stamp at every stop.
The Triangle Wine Company and the Wine Cellar are both in Southern Pines. The Village Wine Shop is a wine bar in the neighboring town of Pinehurst.
Sandhills Winery is a wine bar in West End, and James Creek Cider House is a Cidery in Cameron.
Cypress Bends Vineyard is in Wagram, nearly 35 minutes from downtown Southern Pines.
Address: North Carolina, United States
20. Go shopping at Marie & Marcele Boutique
This mother-daughter-operated shop aims to provide its patrons with a family-like experience.
Marie & Marcele Boutique’s primary goals are to provide the latest styles at competitive prices, create awareness of companies supporting good causes worldwide, and give back to their neighborhood.
Knowing they are improving an individual’s life is one of their greatest delights.
Marie & Marcele promotes charity organizations and businesses within the community since they acknowledge that everything starts with simple things.
Coats, dresses, jumpsuits, jewelry, handbags, hats, home décor, activewear, and more are some items at this boutique.
Address: 200 NW Broad St, Southern Pines, NC 28387, United States
21. Unwind at The Spa at Pinehurst
Relaxation is necessary during a vacation, so if you are looking for pampering near Southern Pine, head to The Spa at Pinehurst.
Here you can swim, visit the hot tubs, participate in great spa treatments from their skincare specialists, and drink some tasty smoothies.
You will also take in the peacefulness on the facility’s sprawling terrace facing the verdant grounds.
Book a relaxation appointment at The Spa if you want an extra special treat.
They offer various sessions, including the Spa Escape Package, which consists of daily breakfast, dinner, and all-day access to the eucalyptus steam room, two 50-minute treatments, sauna, tranquility areas, and whirlpool.
When you go to The Spa at Pinehurst, you can be sure that your time will be revived and elegant. You can pick an appointment that best matches your needs.
The Spa at Pinehurst is in Pinehurst, NC, 11 minutes from Southern Pines.
Address: 180 Barrett Rd E, Pinehurst, NC 28374, United States
22. Go on a shopping spree on Broad Street
There are many locally owned shops lining Broad Street in downtown Southern Pines. Visit Against the Grains for gifts and locally-produced North Carolina products.
Another shop is Mockingbird, an attractive shop for fun home goods and gift items.
Two military wives began Riveter with a sewing machine but now include handbags and accessories on the list of things they offer.
Stop at Southern Whey, where you can produce your charcuterie board and buy snack items.
You can also go to Nani’s Soap Boutique, where you will discover natural and sustainable laundry detergents, bath products, candles, etc.
Finally, River Jack Outfitters is where any outdoor lover must buy gear and outfits suitable for outdoor activities.
Address: Southern Pines, NC, United States
23. Shop for cooking oil at Pinehurst Olive Oil Company
When visiting the neighboring town, it is necessary to explore the lovely smaller stores that line the main street in the area.
The Pinehurst Olive Oil Company is among such shops, but it may be tricky to find if you don’t know where to look.
This lovely shop on Cherokee Road is where you can buy all the oils and varieties of vinegar popular in the Mediterranean cuisine scene.
It is also a prime spot where food lovers visiting the town can gather for cooking classes and learn fresh ways to approach the famous spice blends.
Its name may make visitors think it sells only balsamic kinds of vinegar and olive oil, but they have other unique things to offer.
The staff is well-versed in its product offering and welcomes guests to sample their goods before buying them.
Address: 105 Cherokee Rd, Pinehurst, NC 28374, United States
24. Take the kids to Camelot Playground
Camelot Playground is rated number one among Pinehurst’s most favored family-friendly destinations.
It has a huge open space that offers room to play and run with fantastic scenery of rolling hills and tall, shady pine trees.
Kids can navigate through the mazes of the tiny brown wooden structures that link an apple slide, ledges and archways, a treehouse, ladders, and winding climbing ramps.
The playground features special ramps and a staircase for disabled children or parents.
There is only one way to go in or out of the playground, so your kid will always be safe while having fun.
Additional things that should excite you are tunnels, swings, wooden cars, and walkways made from recycled tires.
All these plans are ideal for different age groups, from toddlers to full-fledged adults.
Camelot Playground is truly a place for families to come and socialize with each other while taking in a bit of fresh air and sunshine.
Address: 90 Woods Rd, Pinehurst, NC 28374, United States
25. Red’s Corner
Red’s Corner is a family and dog-friendly outdoor food truck park. It is one of the best places to visit in Southern Pines, NC.
Red’s Corner hosts several live music acts when the weather is lovely.
You can order something to eat from any food truck you prefer, like the cookie truck, or order a drink from the bar.
You will discover twelve beers on tap and a non-alcoholic root beer. They also serve canned beers, wines, mimosa, seltzers, slushies, and kombucha.
They provide heaters and fire pits during winter, making it an ideal hangout spot.
Address: 901 SW Broad St, Southern Pines, NC 28387, United States
North Carolina has quite some attractions and activities to visit. Here is a list of things to do in Asheboro, and things to do in Oak Island for a fun exploration.
Plan Your Trip to Southern Pines
You can’t be looking for what to do in Southern Pines, NC, as the city has many activities and attractions that make for a terrific destination for indoor and outdoor lovers.
From extensive woodlands to downtown parks and green spaces, modern theaters to restaurants, there’s something for everybody here.
Start planning your trip to this town now.