Blake Walsh

15 Best Things to Do in Aberdeen, NC

  • Published 2022/04/15

Aberdeen is a quaint, charming little town in Moore County in North Carolina, best known for its historical attractions and significance!

There are a lot of things to do and see here, from historical homes to railroads and even the flora and fauna of the surrounding woods.

If you’re looking for a relaxing getaway, Aberdeen can provide just that with their walking tours down the historical districts, a trip to their many museums and historically significant sights, and more that will take you back to the past.

Pack your bags and maximize your visit to this historical town by checking out this list of tourist attractions and destinations curated just for you.

Learn about Aberdeen’s History at Malcolm Blue Farm

Aberdeen is rich in history, and Malcolm Blue Farm can give you a glimpse into its historical past!

This historic home is located in the heart of Aberdeen, and due to its cultural significance, it has been added to the list of the US National Register of Historic Places.

Built around 1825, Malcolm Blue Farm is a one-story farmhouse where you can find educational exhibits and attractions that detail the history of this charming little town.

Named for the man who built this structure, Malcolm McMillan Blue, he was also a significant figure during this era as a farmer and civic leader in this county.

Though originally built in the first quarter of the 1800s, this farm was then converted into a museum that was open to the public in the 1900s to preserve the artifacts, exhibits, and more, that date as far back as 100 years ago!

The elegance of the Greek Revival style design elements found on both the exterior and interior of this home is a sight you wouldn’t want to miss!

Schedule a tour at Malcolm Blue Farm to kickstart your vacation at Aberdeen!

Visit a One-of-a-Kind Gem Shop at Jims, Gems and Gold

Serving the community for nearly two decades, Jims, Gems and Gold is a gem shop where you can purchase unique jewelry and precious stones!

Also known as Gems, Gold, and Minerals, this gem shop provides many educational and interesting services you can avail of.

North Carolina is known for being home to several mines where you can dig up natural resources, and this shop houses some of these finds.

From sapphires to rubies, garnets, and more, there are a lot of commodities you can see here!

Jims, Gems and Gold also gives guests the opportunity to go on a gold panning journey where interested visitors can search for precious gems and even take them home!

Perfect for the entire family, this establishment in the town’s center gives you a chance to indulge in the wonderful world of geology while hunting for treasure and other gemstones!

Grab a Refreshing Drink at Railhouse Brewery

Founded by military veterans who had a shared passion for flavorful and tasty craft brews, Railhouse Brewery sells some of the finest and most creative taps and other liquor!

Established in 2010 by Brian Evitts of the U.S Navy and Mike Ratkowski of the U.S Army, these two lads have dedicated themselves to serving the community with a variety of liquor perfect for a night cap!

Their menu includes a wide range of growlers, kegs, and cocktails that will pique the interests of avid beer enthusiasts and lovers!

They also serve delicious, fresh meals and snacks to complement your choice of drink with both indoor and outdoor seating, ensuring a relaxing and enjoyable experience.

This brewery has continued to expand across the state due to its success, so drop by Railhouse Brewery and taste their flavorful crafts for yourself!

Hunt for Treasure at A Treasure Alley

If you want to purchase a one-of-a-kind item that can serve as a souvenir to remind you of this trip, then A Treasure Valley is the place to go!

Situated right on the Main Street of Aberdeen, this small shop houses a variety of unique items, ranging from jewelry and accessories to household items, collectibles, and other bargained items which you can get for a discounted, affordable price!

Most visitors go on a little shopping spree right at this establishment with the endless selection they have to offer.

You may even learn about the possible historical background of the items you’re buying – all you have to do is ask the staff!

This thrift store has been a part of the community of Aberdeen for about 20 years and has regularly attracted tourists with their antiques, vintage and retro items, and many more!

Spend Quality Time with the Whole Family at Aberdeen Lake Park

Your trip to Aberdeen in North Carolina wouldn’t be complete without visiting this family-friendly park found in the heart of this town!

This children-approved park is packed with tons of amenities you can enjoy with the whole clan, including activities such as fishing, hiking, or playing sports in the open space!

Younger visitors can take advantage of their playground while the teenagers and adults can trail the 1.5 mile path that circles around the surrounding woods.

You can also find a variety of wildlife that have made this oasis at home, making this venue perfect for birdwatching!

Keep an eye out for these creatures that may be strolling by the side of the path while taking in the scenic beauty of this town.

Guests may even go boating or fishing in the lake or simply enjoy a lovely meal on their picnic tables.

Aberdeen Lake Park is jam-packed with a lot of activities and amenities suitable for the entire family that can keep you entertained and preoccupied for hours!

Practice Putting Green at Legacy Golf Links

This Nicklaus Design golf course is a must-visit in Aberdeen for all golf players and enthusiasts!

Priding itself in its award-winning courses, Legacy Golf Links was voted in the Top 50 Public Golf Courses in the entire United States for its high-quality rough and fairways.

Their courses are also routed around the lake, adding a hint of difficulty for the seasoned players.

First-time players and beginners are also welcome to try their hand at putting green since their courses are suited to entertain players of all skill levels!

Call ahead of time and make a booking to play golf at this renowned course in Aberdeen!

Enjoy Fresh Seafood Platters at The House of Fish

Need to satisfy your seafood craving but don’t know where to go?

If so, The House of Fish has your back!

Only a short 5-minute drive away from the town center, you can enjoy some of the town’s freshest, best seafood at The House of Fish!

Their platters are made upon order to ensure only fresh and high-quality seafood is served right to your table!

Their menu includes selections of shrimp, salmon, scallops, and oysters, among others, cooked in various ways to appeal to your taste buds!

The House of Fish has garnered a community of loyal customers with their business, serving this town since its opening in 2014!

Admire Railroad Exhibits and Artifacts at Union Station Railroad Museum

Another historic tourist attraction you can find in Aberdeen is the Union Station Railroad Museum, a museum dedicated to preserving the Union Station Depot and its artifacts!

Its estimated establishment was around the early 1900s and features Victorian architecture from its era, along with some preserved relics from the railroad community.

In this museum, you can find memorabilia that have been collected, showcasing the rich history of the Union Station that operated in Aberdeen and its surrounding area.

This museum has also made its way onto the National Register of Historic Places and has regularly attracted tourists who want to see ​​a renovated caboose that sits on tracks nearby.

Union Station Railroad Museum doesn’t accept walk-ins, so be sure to call ahead of time to book a tour!

Indulge in Delicious, Fresh Coffee at Cactus Creek Gourmet Coffee Roasters

Cactus Creek Gourmet Coffee Roasters has been serving some of the best and freshest coffee in all of Aberdeen since its opening in 2004!

Its location at the heart of this town makes it easily accessible to both locals and tourists alike, which makes them one of the most popular go-to coffee shops!

As a family-run business of veterans and military soldiers, this business’ mission and vision are to provide customers only the highest quality of coffee brewed from the best beans.

With over 55 different flavors of coffee and 25 varieties, there’s a lot to select from!

Their founder is still actively searching for new beans and flavors to incorporate into their menu, always giving their customers a taste of something new and unique!

Make sure to stop by Cactus Creek Gourmet Coffee Roasters when on your visit to this town and grab a cup of coffee for yourself!

Play Ball with the Family at ​​Colonial Heights Park

If you love playing various ball games, you should definitely check out Colonial Heights Park!

This outdoor park is best known for its baseball and softball fields where friends and families can play against each other!

Sports leagues and other championship games are also held at this park, which you can check out and watch if you’re interested!

Guests can also enjoy a nice snack on their picnic tables when they’re tired from all the running and catching that these ball sports involve.

Grab your jerseys and protective equipment and play a friendly game or two with your loved ones to guarantee some unforgettable memories.

Other Things to Do Nearby

Catch a Film or a Live Show at the Sunrise Theater

Exterior of the Sunrise Theater

Jerrye & Roy Klotz, MD, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Southern Pines is the neighboring town of Aberdeen packed with a wide range of things to do that can cater to all families!

Sunrise Theater is found within Southern Pines’ town center where you can wind back and catch a film or their newest live production with your loved ones.

This indie theater hosts various productions with a passion for performing arts, and occasionally even live music and performances, that are sure to pique the interests of theater enthusiasts.

You can use their calendar as a reference to see what shows and events they have upcoming, ranging from dramatic plays to live entertainment and performances, as well as film screenings and showings.

Buy a ticket ahead of time to ensure a seat at the Sunrise Theater!

Eat a Hearty Breakfast at Betsy’s Crepes

Named after the woman who started this business, Betsy’s Crepes is dedicated to serving only the best sweet and savory crepes in Southern Pines!

Open since 2010, this eatery is one of the most sought-after destinations for breakfast and lunch options with its crepe menu along with tasty soups, sandwiches, paninis, and more.

They also serve gluten-free and other healthy, customized meals to cater to those with dietary restrictions and preferences to ensure an inclusive environment for all to enjoy regardless of being vegetarian, vegan, and the like!

Found within minutes of Southern Pines’ center, Betsy’s Crepes is a casual diner with an eclectic and charming aura that regularly attracts tourists and locals who are craving a hearty meal.

Drop by this cafe and order a crepe with fun and creative flavors and toppings!

Go On a Hike at Weymouth Woods Sandhills Nature Preserve

Trees and nature view at Weymouth Woods Sandhills Nature Preserve

bobistraveling, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

This nature preserve in Southern Pines is one of the more popular destinations for hiking, walking, and enjoying nature as a whole.

This forest once covered over millions of acres wide, having been home to flora and fauna and other ecological wildlife that is continually being preserved by the community’s association.

The pines that line this forest have been standing for about hundreds of years and are home to a myriad of species, including woodpeckers, tree frogs, fox squirrels and so much more, that you should keep an eye out for!

The network of trails around this nature preserve makes it easy for hikes, and they even offer various group events that you can join!

Bring your camera with you to snap some photos of rare species you might come across!

See a Historic Home at Shaw House

Built as early as 1821, this historic home in Southern Pines is the oldest house left standing in the entire town, conveniently located on the Main Road!

Shaw House has earned its place on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places due to its cultural significance, which gives tourists a glimpse into the history of the town’s first Scottish settlers.

Named after the man and his family who first occupied this structure, Charles C. Shaw, this home has preserved its name until the present day despite the county’s association acquiring the land and preserving it for historical purposes.

Tourists who visit this town are encouraged to schedule a tour around Shaw House to learn all about the history of this quaint county and even gain some new insights into the Sandhills settlers that have influenced this town.

This property is open to the public as a historic site with lots to learn and see, serving as a reminder of the cultural roots of this town’s ancestors that have since then been transformed into the thriving community it is today!

Challenge Yourself in an Escape Room at Southern Pines Escape

If you’re looking for something more thrilling and adventurous, Southern Pines Escape provides a fun-filled experience in an escape room that’s perfect for you and the entire family or your friends!

Using critical and logical thinking along with your detective skills, this game room gives you 60 seconds to solve all the obstacles you need to win!

Featuring various puzzles, riddles, clues, and other fun challenges, you’ll be tested on how well you’ll do under pressure.

This veteran- and woman-owned business provides a new, unique experience to aspiring detectives who visit this town!

Make sure to cooperate with your teammates to uncover the hidden clues and follow your leads, to make it out of the room successfully.

Unleash your inner Sherlock Holmes and try your hand out at being a detective here at Southern Pines Escape, found within the town center!

Final Thoughts

Aberdeen attracts tourists of all kinds from all over the world but is a major hit with history buffs and enthusiasts with all the historically significant establishments and structures found here!

From museums to local favorite restaurants and recreational parks, this town is the ideal destination for a relaxing getaway for the entire family!

Its rich history, dating back as far as the 1700s, and its Scottish ancestral roots have greatly shaped and influenced the community.

You can travel back in time and bask in the glory of this ancestral town just by admiring the buildings and homes that have made it onto the National Register of Historic Places.

There are a plethora of wonderful places to visit, so book a trip now to Aberdeen, North Carolina!

Discover More of Moore County, NC

Things to Do in Pinehurst, NC

Things to Do in Southern Pines, NC

© All rights reserved.