Pinehurst, NC is renowned for its U.S Open courses, but there’s more to do in the Pinehurst area besides golf. After all the region has everything. From charming downtown shops to outdoor adventures, families and travelers will find plenty of things to keep them busy during their stay. If you’re looking for a little variety like our favorite things to do in Pinehurst NC besides golf on your next trip, then read on for our recs!
1. Pinehurst Harness Track
First, when it comes to fun things to do in Pinehurst NC besides golf look no further than the Pinehurst Harness Track. It is a historic landmark in Pinehurst, NC. Home to 10 champion standardbreds, it has been drawing crowds of racing enthusiasts for over 100 years. Whether you’re a seasoned horse racing fan or just looking for a unique day out, the Pinehurst Harness Track is definitely worth a visit!
2. Dive Into Lake Pinehurst
Located just a short shuttle ride from Pinehurst Village, this 200-acre lake has days’ worth of activities for you and your family. Lounge by the white sand beaches, rent kayaks, paddleboards, and pontoons, or break out the rod and tackle!
3. Prepare for a Challenge at Pinehurst’s Disc Golf Course
Besides being home to formidable greens and fairways, Pinehurst also has ambitious disc golf courses. Pinehurst’s wooded 10-hole disc golf course winds through rolling elevation changes encouraging new and seasoned players to explore a variety of approaches and shots.
4. Visit The Village Green
Located beside the Given Memorial Library and Tufts Archive, Pinehurst’s village green offers a quaint wooded walking path for visitors to Pinehurst to slowly unwind or refresh before or after their day filled with adventure.
5. Sink into Relaxation in the Spa At Pinehurst
True bliss is awaiting you in the Spa at Pinehurst. This gets our vote as one of the most relaxing things to do in Moore County. The Spa is truly world class. With truly something for everyone, the Spa offers not only pampering facials, body treatments, and nail care but also a Golfer’s massage that targets the core muscles most commonly used by athletes for a before or after-game treat.
6. Stroll Through the Sandhills Horticultural Gardens
Enjoy the enchanting greenery of the Sandhills Horticultural Gardens. Open to the public year-round, the Sandhills Horticultural Gardens features thirty-two acres of lush landscapes, including succulent gardens, traditional English sunken gardens, and Japanese gardens, among many others.
7. Conquer Cannon Park at the Camelot Playground
Winner of the Best Park of Moore County, Camelot is an expansive wooden playground for kids to explore and engage in a kingdom’s worth of fantastic twists, turns, and climbs.
8. Get the Best of Both Worlds at Pinehurst Brewing
Part brewery, part smokehouse, Pinehurst Brewing Company is totally worth the trip! Located in a historic brick-corbeled steam mill, Pinehurst Brewing crafts outstanding beer and brisket alongside its multitude of other offerings within it intimate and industrious atmosphere. For more of our favorite Pinehurst NC restaurants click here.
9. Let the Kids Loose at the Pinehurst Splash Pad
Looking to let some energy out for the little ones? Pinehurst’s Splash Pad is open May-September and is a blast—seriously, water jets out from over 30 geysers and bollards in every direction! Because what’s better then watching your kiddos get drenched by the big bucket water dump?!
10. Skate it Out at Rassie Wicker Park Inline Hockey Rink
Throw on a pair of ice skates, grab your family and get ready for some good old-fashioned fun. This outdoor inline hockey rink is located just behind Pinehurst’s fire station, where you can enjoy public hours from 6 pm until 10 pm every day in the cooler seasons!
11. Indulge in the Key Lime Pie at Carolina Dining Room
Arguably the best dessert in Pinehurst, Executive Chef Thierry Debailleul’s amazing menu features the decadent Mile-High Key Lime Pie generously topped with Meringue, Strawberries, Pineapple, Blackberries, and Candied Macadamia Nuts.
12. Attend a Concert Featuring the Carolina Philharmonic
If you love classical music, the Carolina Philharmonic is a must-see. This small-town orchestra has a big sound, and the intimate setting adds to the experience. The musicians are passionate about their art, and it shows in every note.
13. Book a Village Carriage Ride
What’s the best way to tour the charming streets and Central Park of Pinehurst Village? A private horse-drawn carriage, of course! Perfect for a group of four, this carriage tour traverses all the charming paths that weave throughout Pinehurst’s historic neighborhoods.
14. Honor the Heritage and History Found Within Tufts Archives
Filled with over 125,000 historical images, the Tufts Archives offers free exhibits open to the public, including James W. Tufts’ original marble and silver 19th century Soda Fountain machine and artifacts from the founder of Pinehurst.
15. Dine at The Deuce’s “19th Hole”
Voted the “Best New Restaurant in Golf” by Golf Inc Magazine, The Duece is one of the best things to do in Pinehurst NC! The historic 18th hole of Pinehurst No. 2. Featuring a wide array of delicious pub fare, including their “Golfers on the Run Buffet,” The Duece is a charming dining club with just the right mix of sophistication and charm.
THINGS TO DO IN MOORE COUNTY IN NEARBY SOUTHERN PINES NC
16. Visit the Historic Shaw House in Southern Pines NC
One of the five historic homesteads maintained by the Moore Country Historical Association, the Shaw House sits on its original foundation beside the famed Native Trail, the Pee Dee Road. The home’s interior is a treasure trove of history and traditional craftsmanship, and guests can tour the nearby tobacco barn and corn crib as well.
17. Explore the Campbell House
The beautiful Campbell House is home to the Arts Council of Moore County’s gallery and showroom. Peruse the interior exhibits or meander through well-groomed grounds and gardens behind.
18. Weymouth Center for the Arts & Humanities
Undoubtedly, when it comes to fun things to do in Moore County, the Weymouth Center is a great option! Located in the beautifully restored estate of Author James Boyd, the Weymouth Center for the Arts is celebrating its 100th year by hosting artists’ workshops, live music, and other enriching events throughout 2023. Feel free to tour the museum’s galleries and gardens as well!
19. Wander Through Weymouth Woods
Undeniabley, there is something indescribable about being surrounded by towering pines that date back to before America was even founded. The Round Timber Trail offers a leisurely 1-mile trek through Weymouth Woods and is home to the oldest living longleaf pine in North Carolina!
20. Shop and Dine in Downtown Southern Pines
Downtown Southern Pines is full of excellent boutiques to explore, like Against the Grain Shoppe and Mockingbird on Broad. After popping into a few stores, head over to The Bell Tavern or diVine for excellent dinners and lively nighttime atmospheres.
21. Visit Reservoir Park
The perfect place to get some exercise, Reservoir Park in Southern Pines is a great place to take a walk. It’s a beautiful stroll under tall pine trees and next to a pretty body of water. Here you can enjoy some peace and quiet and maybe even take in a sunset!
THINGS TO DO IN MOORE COUNTY IN NEARBY ABERDEEN NC
22. Tour Malcolm Blue Farm
One of the more historical things to do in Aberdeen NC, the Malcolm Blue Farm is like taking a step back in time. Originally built in 1825, here you can experience first-hand what life was like for the first pioneers of Aberdeen by touring the farmstead’s windmill, gristmill, water well, and numerous barns.
23. Find Family Fun at Aberdeen Lake Park
Looking for some wide open spaces? Lake Aberdeen is a fantastic open for families to stretch their legs and find some fun. Situated beside the 39-acre Pages Lake, Aberdeen Lake Park offers great gravel trails, playgrounds, and hidden fishing spots where everyone in the family can unwind.
24. Rally ‘Round Great Brew at the Railhouse Brewery
Owned and operated by veterans, this patriotic brewery is located a short drive away from Fort Bragg and prides itself on the service and sacrifice of its military-affiliated staff and community. Grab a KA-BAR Brown ale or buy a drink for a veteran on Railhouse’s “Beer Forward Wall.”
25. Relax at Ray’s Mill Park
Time moves slower in this woodland oasis take a deep breath and enjoy the serenity of Ray’s Mill Park. Whether you plan on grabbing your rod and canoe to float along Powell’s Pond or have packed the perfect picnic, Ray’s Mill Park is a particularly great way to refresh between adventures.
BONUS: Brunch at Masons Restaurant And Grocery
Looking for the perfect Sunday brunch? Adding contemporary flair to all your midday favorites, Mason’s is undefeated in the comfort food category. From its Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich to its scratch-made biscuits, this bright brunch spot is a local gem through and through.
Lastly, if you are looking for places to stay when visiting Pinehurst NC!
