If you’re looking for a great town in North Carolina that offers the best of both worlds between rural and cosmopolitan lifestyles, then you would do well to come to Pinehurst.
Located halfway between Raleigh and Fayetteville, this emerging hotspot has all the amenities of big cities and boasts an outstanding scenic village with just about 17,000 people that sets it apart from other tourist destinations.
In this friendly little resort village, you will find a great choice of diverse activities, including meetings and special events, beautiful landscape design, and even a family-oriented community catering to all ages.
The small village in Moore County is famous for the Pinehurst Resort, an opulent resort set in the heart of North Carolina’s lush greenery.
Dubbed “The Home of American Golf,” Pinehurst is home to nine golf courses – two of which are frequented by many famous players.
But in addition to its scenic beauty, you can enjoy plenty of other things in this stunning village, like exploring the Sandhills Horticultural Garden!
Whether you’re here to visit or play golf, you won’t want to miss these 15 things to do in Pinehurst, NC:
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Relaxation is vital when visiting Pinehurst.
For some pampering, check out The Spa at Pinehurst.
Here, you’ll have the opportunity to swim, visit the hot tubs, partake of excellent spa treatments from their skincare specialists and sip some delicious smoothies too.
All while taking in the peace and tranquility on the facility’s sprawling terrace overlooking the lush grounds!
If you’re looking for an extra special treat, reserve a relaxation appointment at The Spa.
They offer sessions including Spa Escape Package, which includes daily breakfast and dinner, two 50-minute treatments, and all-day access to the eucalyptus steam room, tranquility areas, sauna, whirlpools, or you can choose an appointment that best suits your needs.
When you visit The Spa at Pinehurst, you can be assured that your time will be enjoyed in a luxurious and rejuvenating way.
Pinehurst Resort is a mecca for golf lovers, with tales spinning around almost every corner.
Legends of the game like Arnold Palmer, Payne Stewart, and Jack Nicklaus have passed through these grounds where they competed in trickier versions of the very same course you’ll be teeing off on or mowing your way around.
The meandering fairways whisper tales of all those who have graced this location either as competitors or spectators.
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The golf resort not only hosts renowned tournaments, but its significant past has also made it one of North Carolina’s biggest tourist attractions.
It boasts nine golf courses, each featuring 18 holes, appealing to a wide range of players and offering something for the whole family.
Pinehurst No. 2 is one of the top courses in North Carolina and among the best in America, so it’s no wonder why this golf course attracts visitors from all over the world!
The resort also includes a fun 9-hole short course where families can spend time together taking their shot at golfing while enjoying not only the greens but nearby shopping and dining!
When you’re in Pinehurst, it’s important to take advantage of the charming smaller shops line the area’s main street.
The Pinehurst Olive Oil Company is one of those shops, but it can be hard to find if you know where to look.
Located on Cherokee Road in Pinehurst, The Pinehurst Olive Oil Company is a charming store where you can get all the oils and kinds of vinegar trending in the Mediterranean cuisine scene.
It’s also a prime spot where foodies visiting or living in North Carolina can gather for cooking classes about new ways to approach the popular spice blend of their choice!
Its name may make you think it sells only olive oils and balsamic kinds of vinegar, but they offer something more unique.
The staff is exceptionally well-versed in its product offerings and welcomes customers to sample their goods before purchasing them.
They also carry a selection of locally sourced honey and gourmet crackers and treats that pair nicely with the store’s signature products.
The Given Book Shop & Outpost is a library-sponsored book shop that guarantees only high-quality used books.
The proceeds from these sales go directly to the fundraising campaign of the Given Memorial Library.
They organize events such as workshops and lectures, which they will extend an invitation to, so be sure to stop by!
Volunteers run the bookshop, and when not selling books, they promote community events and socializing.
The historic book shop building can be rented as well for private parties or business functions.
The Given Book Shop & Outpost is fully committed to supporting their community and history surrounding the wonderful Given Memorial Library within the heart of Pinehurst, NC.
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The Tufts Archives is a collaboration of the Tufts Family Foundation and Pinehurst’s Given Memorial Library.
It has been in existence since 1975 and showcases Pinehurst’s rich history.
The Tufts Family Foundation supported the creation of this archive by providing an initial endowment and investing additional resources each year.
Specific fundraisers, graphics and images sale, and donations keep it going.
Researchers, scholars, media, and everyone can access the archives for free.
A trip to Tufts Archives is fun to do with your kids interested in local history!
Nestled off Rassie Wicker Drive, Wicker Park is a 103-acre facility with various amenities.
Numerous facilities available within the community park include the soccer field, bocce court, two tennis courts, splash pad, in-line hockey, and more.
Visitors will also enjoy finding an expanded trail system as well as a beautiful playground – perfect for grabbing your camera and capturing those family memories that you’ll treasure forever.
No matter if you’re looking to burn off the day with some exercise or want to stop by and let your children play on some toys, Wicker Park is sure to meet your needs!
The Arboretum has 33 acres of mesmerizing gardens to host receptions, weddings, and other events.
You can stroll through Joyce’s Meadow, Timmel Pavilion, the Pergola Garden, and Magnolia Lawn to take in the sights or play a game of croquet or bocce ball.
Camelot Playground is ranked number one among Pinehurst’s most favorite family-friendly activities.
It has a vast open space that offers room to run and play with incredible scenery of tall, shady pine trees and rolling hills.
Children can navigate through the mazes of the small brown wooden structures that connect an apple slide, a treehouse, ledges and archways, ladders, and winding climbing ramps.
There are special ramps and staircases designed explicitly for disabled parents or children.
There is only one way into or out of the playground, so your child will always stay safe while having fun!
Other things that should get you excited about are swings, tunnels, walkways made out of recycled tires, and wooden cars.
All these plans are suitable for various age groups, from toddlers to adults.
This playground is truly a haven for families to come and interact with each other while taking in some fresh air and sunshine.
Leonard J. DeFrancisci, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Located at 105 Magnolia Lane, Mystic Cottage is a large but quaint cottage with three stories.
It was James W. Tufts who founded Pinehurst, and his son and successor Leonard Tufts got The Mystic Cottage in 1899 as their first Pinehurst home.
Leonard J. DeFrancisci, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
A “model cottage” was built to showcase the newest concepts for family living in the late 1800s.
At one time described as elaborate, this cottage features a grand facade in Victorian-style architecture, boasting a room count of 14, and now has many modern improvements.
Its interior has retained its original plan and finishes throughout the years!
Belonging to the Pinehurst Historic District, the Mystic Cottage’s prestigious National Register of Historic Places designation in 1973 and notable National Historic Landmark District recognition in 1996.
Leonard J. DeFrancisci, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
The Village Wine Shop is a great little wine shop on Pinehurst’s main street.
The fantastic local merchant is a great resource for those interested in wine around the Pinehurst area.
The shop has an excellent selection of bottles and accessories as well as seating toward the back near their tasting bar if you’d like to try some varietals, after which you can make purchases from your favorite brands at reasonable prices.
The business owner, Gwen, is easy-going but great to have conversations about all things wine.
So if you are planning on visiting Pinehurst, you should definitely take her advice on an exquisite glass of your favorite grape.
Pinehurst Brewing Company has had roots in Pinehurst since 1895, once known as a steam plant.
Moving seamlessly from an industrial site to a local pub, the Pinehurst Brewing Company is now famous for providing visitors with good conversation and full stomachs – thanks to their skilled chefs who prepare fare that’s wholesome but far from lackluster.
You can sip on brews anytime throughout the day without feeling out of place since there are no set meal times at this establishment!
Exposed original brick and woodwork remain intact while repurposed metal valves and pipes add unexpected pop against rich woods and unique textures.
There are vintage arches along the brick walls and wrought-iron light fixtures above several of the booths.
The smokestack that used to stand outside the Pinehurst Brewing Company back in the day got torn down a few years ago, but now it has been rebuilt and restored with a brand new trellis constructed overhead!
Besides looking pretty cool, this trellis is quite similar to the original one – it’s actually built on top of the same pylons that held up the train tracks that helped deliver coal into Pinehurst once upon a time.
If you’re looking for some thrills while staying at one of our Pinehurst vacation rentals, then head over to Pinehurst Harness Track.
Pinehurst’s reliable and mild weather makes it an ideal place for horse owners who want their Standardbreds trained and groomed with competitive success in mind.
The Pinehurst Harness Track is quintessential to the North Carolina community.
The 111-acre Harness Track was formed initially in 1915 and continues to be a significant catalyst for spectacular opportunities in the horse industry.
With an ongoing tradition of excellence, competitive spirit, and family-oriented excitement, it attracts trainers from across the country!
Pinehurst Harness Track now hosts an annual matinee and is recognized as a harness racing landmark.
The Harness Track has been included on North Carolina’s Register of Historic Places since 1992.
In addition to that, this site also includes both a piece of history and the home of champions.
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Sandhills Horticultural Gardens offers a timeless kind of beauty and wonder that is timeless and cherished.
Sandhills Horticultural Gardens have been around since 1978.
Today, they consist of 32 acres for visitors to explore.
Different gardens are available to explore, including the Sandhills Water Garden, Hackley Woodland Garden, Atkins Hillside Garden, Sir Walter Raleigh Garden, Ebersole Holly Garden, Desmond Native Wetland Trail Garden, Rose Garden, Fruit & Vegetable Garden, and Conifer garden.
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They offer educational fun fueled by a passion for plants and nature and an appreciation for design composition.
The cultivated landscape offers an experience like no other: fun for your mind, body, and heart.
Whether the natural curiosity takes you to learn more about the Sandhills or if it takes you to spend time with nature by learning about plants found here, this Pinehurst experience will be one of a kind!
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The Broadhurst Art Gallery is a fantastic art gallery located in downtown Pinehurst.
The gallery often features works from many talented artists and has exhibits of up-and-coming artists as well.
Not only will the artwork take your breath away with its gorgeous presentation, but it will also leave you feeling energized and enlightened.
With works by Jason Craighead, Bruce Dorfman, and Jane Filer, you’re bound to walk out of here with a piece that not only pleases your eyes with stunning artistry but also delights your mind with each new detail that unfolds with every glance.
It’s also free for you to enter and enjoy anytime you visit!
If you’re looking for something new and fun to do during your stay, be sure to check out Broadhurst Art Gallery.
Carolina Philharmonic has been a local, non-profit symphony orchestra based in Pinehurst since 2009.
They’ve grown to become one of the most sought-after orchestras in North Carolina.
They know that music is about sharing, and they love nothing more than bringing music to those who need it the most.
If you’re a music enthusiast, then you’ll enjoy their live performances.
They make sure that you get a chance to hear more of what they love.
You’ll find this non-profit symphony orchestra at 5 Market Square, Pinehurst.
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Six miles east of Pinehurst (about 12 minutes of car drive) is Southern Pines, which has a finer feel than the cradle of American Golf.
It has the charm of a cute downtown when you walk around.
There are quite a few places here where you can enjoy no matter how many times you drop by.
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A perfect start to the day is scooping up a cool treat at The Ice Cream Parlor and following it up with a pint and some grub at Hatchet Brewing Co. or Southern Pines Brewing.
If you keep your wanderings to the downtown area, you might also want to stop by the Country Bookshop for all of your reading needs.
Also, make sure to visit Against the Grain Shoppe for souvenirs before hitting the town!
When deciding where to go on vacation, there’s no better choice than Pinehurst.
With its wide range of fun places like shops, parks, and art galleries, this town is the ideal getaway for chilling out and enjoying family time.
Pinehurst is famous for its various worthy pastimes, like golfing or horse racing.
It’s just full of historical, natural, and unique spots, so don’t leave any of them out on your itinerary!
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