Whether you're arriving early or staying the weekend, there's plenty to explore around Sanford, Southern Pines, Pinehurst, and Raleigh. Here are some of our favorite local spots for relaxing, dining, and making memories.

San‑Lee Park: A beautiful riverside park with hiking trails, lakeside views, picnic spots, and even paddle boating and fishing. Great for strolls or family time.

Sandhills Horticultural Gardens (Pinehurst): 27 acres of gardens, wetlands, and native plant collections—free to the public and lovely for a peaceful morning walk.

Carolina Trace Golf Course: A short drive from the venue, this scenic course is a favorite for golf lovers visiting Sanford.

The Carolina Hotel at Pinehurst Resort: Even if you're not golfing, it’s worth visiting for afternoon drinks, Southern charm, or a walk through the grounds.

Southern Pines Brewing Co.: A local favorite for craft beer lovers with a dog-friendly patio and laid-back vibe.

Elliotts on Linden (Pinehurst): Upscale Southern dining with seasonal, locally sourced ingredients.

Big T’s (Sanford): Casual breakfast & brunch spot for anyone staying local.

Downtown Sanford Historic District: Filled with boutiques, antique shops, art galleries, and charming architecture in Colonial Revival, Tudor, and Art Deco styles.

Hawkins Avenue & Lee Avenue Historic Streets: Residential districts lined with beautifully preserved early-20th-century homes—perfect for architecture buffs and a peaceful stroll.

Downtown Southern Pines: A charming downtown filled with boutiques, bookstores, coffee shops, breweries, and wine bars. It's perfect for a relaxed day of wandering and grabbing lunch.

Pinehurst Village: Known for its historic charm and golf legacy, this village features cobblestone-style streets, cute cafés, and great souvenir shopping.

Temple Theatre (Sanford): Catch a live show in this restored 1920s theater if you're in town Friday or Saturday night.

Antique Shopping in Downtown Sanford & Southern Pines: If you love thrifting or vintage finds, these towns are full of gems.

Gipson Play Plaza at Dorothea Dix Park: 18.5‑acre adventure playground that officially opened in June 2025. This lively space offers everything from multi‑level climbing towers and mega‑slides to a waterfall wall, tactile sand bowl, rope bridges, sensory maze, picnic grove, and public art installations. Opened 8 a.m.–9 p.m.

North Carolina Museum of Art: Incredible outdoor sculpture park and rotating indoor exhibits. Free admission!

North Hills or The Village District: Outdoor shopping districts with restaurants, boutiques, and great spots to walk around and relax.

State Farmers Market: Open year-round with local produce, baked goods, flowers, and a restaurant famous for Southern breakfasts.