Southern Pines North CarolinaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Southern Pines, North Carolina.
1. Weymouth Center for the Arts & Humanities
HISTORIC LITERARY HUB
The Weymouth Center for the Arts & Humanities is a magnificent venue that housed the beginning of the Southern literary revival and hosted renowned writers like Thomas Wolfe and F. Scott Fitzgerald. The property includes the North Carolina Literary Hall of Fame and was the first nature preserve in the North Carolina parks system. Tours of the Boyd House are offered during weekdays, while the beautiful grounds are open to the public daily.
2. Reservoir Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION HAVEN
Reservoir Park is one of the top-rated outdoor attractions in Southern Pines, offering visitors a peaceful natural retreat. The park features walking trails, picnic areas, and beautiful scenery for visitors to enjoy. It's conveniently located near other attractions like the Sandhills Horticulture Gardens, making it easy to combine multiple activities in one visit.
3. Weymouth Woods Sandhills Nature Preserve
NATURAL WILDLIFE SANCTUARY
Weymouth Woods Sandhills Nature Preserve is a highly-rated natural area where visitors can experience the unique ecosystem of the North Carolina Sandhills. The preserve offers hiking trails through longleaf pine forests and opportunities to observe local wildlife in their natural habitat. Nature enthusiasts can enjoy educational programs and seasonal events that highlight the preserve's ecological importance.
4. Sunrise Theater
HISTORIC ENTERTAINMENT VENUE
The Sunrise Theater is a beloved cultural landmark in downtown Southern Pines offering films, live performances, and special events. This historic venue serves as a community gathering place and hosts the popular First Friday events from May through November. Visitors can enjoy local bands, food trucks, and Southern Pines beer on the grassy knoll beside the theater during these monthly celebrations.
5. Creation Museum
EDUCATIONAL FAMILY EXPERIENCE
The Creation Museum offers visitors an educational experience focused on natural history from a specific perspective. The museum features exhibits and displays that aim to engage visitors of all ages. It has become a notable attraction in Southern Pines with a 4.0 rating from visitors.
6. Bhawk (Brad Halling American Whiskey Ko)
PREMIUM SPIRITS DESTINATION
Bhawk, also known as Brad Halling American Whiskey Ko, is a highly-rated spirits destination in Southern Pines boasting a perfect 5.0 visitor rating. The establishment offers premium whiskey tastings and a unique experience for spirits enthusiasts. Visitors can learn about the whiskey-making process while enjoying the warm atmosphere of this local gem.
7. Southern Pines Brewing Company
CRAFT BEER EXPERIENCE
Southern Pines Brewing Company is a popular craft brewery offering locally made beers in a welcoming atmosphere. The brewery serves a variety of craft beer options and is featured at local events like First Friday celebrations. Visitors can enjoy tastings, tours, and the opportunity to purchase their favorite brews to take home.
8. Pine Needles Golf Club
CHAMPIONSHIP GOLF COURSE
Pine Needles Golf Club is a prestigious 4.6-rated golf destination that offers a championship course in the heart of North Carolina's golf country. The club has hosted multiple U.S. Women's Open Championships, reflecting its world-class status and challenging design. Golfers can enjoy the beautifully maintained fairways and greens while experiencing a course that has tested the skills of the game's best players.
9. Sandhills Horticulture Gardens
BOTANICAL PARADISE
Sandhills Horticulture Gardens is a breathtaking 12-garden complex located adjacent to Reservoir Park, offering free admission to visitors. The gardens feature various themed areas, including the stunning Sir Walter Raleigh Garden with its beautiful flowers like Daylilies, Sweetbay Magnolias, and Kousa Dogwoods. Established as a public garden in 1978, the complex showcases different blooms each month and provides endless opportunities for photography enthusiasts.
10. Moore County Mural Trail
ART SCAVENGER HUNT
The Moore County Mural Trail features more than a dozen murals scattered throughout the area, with five concentrated in the courthouse square in Carthage. Each mural celebrates different aspects of local history, creating a unique cultural experience and photo opportunity for visitors. The trail makes for an excellent scavenger hunt activity that can be easily incorporated into a weekend getaway to the Southern Pines area.
11. Downtown Southern Pines
CHARMING SHOPPING DISTRICT
Downtown Southern Pines offers visitors a charming shopping experience with local boutiques and specialty stores lining its streets. The district combines historic architecture with modern amenities, creating a welcoming atmosphere for shoppers and diners alike. Visitors can stroll through the downtown area, discovering unique gifts, apparel, home goods, and enjoying the small-town charm of this lovely community.
12. Moore County Farmers Market
LOCAL PRODUCE PARADISE
The Moore County Farmers Market is a producer-only market where visitors can purchase fresh, locally grown produce and artisanal products directly from area farmers. The market showcases the agricultural bounty of the region and supports local food producers and craftspeople. Visitors can enjoy seasonal fruits and vegetables, baked goods, handmade crafts, and the opportunity to connect with the local farming community.
13. Pinehurst Resort
HISTORIC GOLF DESTINATION
Pinehurst Resort is a world-renowned golf destination located just a short drive from Southern Pines, featuring multiple championship courses including the legendary Pinehurst No. 2. The historic resort combines luxury accommodations with exceptional dining and spa services, creating a complete vacation experience. Visitors can walk in the footsteps of golf legends while enjoying the resort's elegant facilities and the charming Village of Pinehurst that surrounds it.
14. Seagrove Pottery
ARTISAN POTTERY HUB
Seagrove is a renowned pottery destination with a centuries-old tradition, located within day-trip distance from Southern Pines. The area is home to nearly 100 pottery shops and studios where visitors can watch artisans at work and purchase handcrafted pieces directly from the creators. Pottery enthusiasts can explore the North Carolina Pottery Center to learn about the region's rich ceramic history before visiting individual studios scattered throughout the countryside.
15. First Friday Celebrations
MONTHLY COMMUNITY FESTIVAL
First Friday is a popular monthly event that runs from May through November (excluding July) where the community gathers for live music on the grassy knoll beside the Sunrise Theatre. The celebration features food trucks, vendors, and Southern Pines beer available for purchase while visitors enjoy performances by local bands. This family-friendly event showcases the vibrant community spirit that makes Southern Pines such a charming destination.