Looking for some fun things to do in Moore County, NC, that won’t break the bank? Look no further! Plenty of free activities exist in this charming area of North Carolina. From exploring historic sites to enjoying nature trails, there’s something for everyone.
But with the abundance of choice, you might struggle to narrow it down to what you should do! That’s exactly what we will be addressing in this post!
So, let’s dive in and discover some of the best free things to do in Southern Pines!
Sandhills Horticultural Gardens
Sandhills Horticultural Gardens is a place that is just straight-up botanical bliss!
They’ve got a massive 32 acres of gardens packed with common and exotic plant species; all showcased in some of the most beautifully designed landscapes you will ever see.
You name it, they’ve got it! From the Rose, Conifer, and Fruit & Vegetable gardens to the Japanese and Wetland Trail Gardens, there is something for everyone to explore.
And get this; they’re open every day from sunrise to sunset! So, whether you’re a hardcore plant enthusiast or just looking for a chill place to hang out with your fam, Sandhills Horticultural Gardens is the perfect location you need to visit if you’re looking for free things to do in Southern Pines!
Tufts Archives
If you love to explore the true history of the areas you visit, look no further than the Tufts Archives while you’re in North Carolina!
This local history museum is a treasure trove of information, containing everything from historical photos and documents to personal letters and artifacts.
Plus, the best part? There’s no admission fee! That’s right; you can explore without having to spend a dime.
And with the Tufts Archives relying solely on donations, every contribution helps preserve Pinehurst’s rich history for future generations!
Pinehurst Harness Track
Hear the thundering of hooves and feel the excitement in the air at the Pinehurst Harness Track!
This massive racing facility is a mecca for equestrian enthusiasts and features not just one, but two, amazing tracks. And the amenities? They are out of this world!
YoYou’llave access to on-site veterinary services, a blacksmith, and even a top-notch restaurant for all your pre-and post-race cravings.
But itit’sot just about the facilities. The Pinehurst Harness Track also hosts a variety of regional harness races, so you can watch the best of the best compete. It dodoesn’tet crazier than this! This is one of the best free things to do in Southern Pines.
Camelot Playground
Looking for a fun place to take the kids to Pinehurst, North Carolina? Try out the Camelot Playground!
This playground is located in Cannon Park and is perfect for children of all ages. The jungle gym has many fun features, like swings, slides, and climbing walls. Great for families with many kids, so no one feels left out! And don’t worry parents; plenty of seats are available for you too!
You can relax in the shade and watch your little ones play to their heart’s content. It’s a great spot to spend a summer afternoon, so pack a picnic and head on over to Camelot Playground!
Reservoir Park
If yoyou’reeady for a day of outdoor fun, check out Reservoir Park in Southern Pines, North Carolina.
This place is the ultimate location for anyone who loves being surrounded by nature.
At the heart of the park is a stunning 95-acre lake that’ll take your breath away with its serene beauty. Whether you want to go fishing or boating, the lake is the perfect place to spend your day.
But wait, there’s more! Reservoir Park also has hiking and nature trails ththat’llake you on an adventure through the lush greenery and scenic views.
If you’re planning a family picnic or a cookout with friends, they’ve got you covered with plenty of dedicated shelters and grills you can use to make the most of your day. And don’t forget to pack flying discs and other fun games with you because there is plenty of space for activities here!
Weymouth Woods
If you visit Moore County, you can’t leave without spending a day at Weymouth Woods Nature Preserve in Southern Pines. This 900-acre preserve is a true wilderness wonderland with so much to explore.
Get ready to put on your hiking shoes and hit the trails! With four miles of winding pathways, you’ll be surrounded by tall, majestic pine forests and swampy wetlands begging to be explored.
But the fun doesn’t stop there! The Weymouth Woods Nature Preserve also has a museum with interactive exhibits where you can learn about this great area’s history and conservation efforts. With that, you’ll be sure to enjoy a fun day, and learn a lot more about this magnificent park before you leave!
Martin Park
If you’ve been trying to find a fun place to take your furry friend, Martin Park is the answer.
The park is a huge open space located in a beautiful wooded area, providing ample room for your dog to run, play, and explore.
You’ve also got several walking trails and open fields, giving your pup the opportunity to get some exercise and fresh air. But the fun doesn’t stop there!
A shallow creek runs through the park, allowing your dog to cool off and splash.
The park has everything you need to spend a fun day out with your furry best friend. So, bring your dog’s favorite toys, grab a leash, and head to Martin Park for some pawsome adventure!
Shaw House
Take a step back in time and visit the Shaw House, a beautifully preserved historic home seen around 1820. It’s hard to believe that this stunning house has stood on the same foundation for over 200 years!
As you wander through the Shaw House, you’ll be blown away by the intricate details and amazing craftsmanship. Every inch of this house tells a story, from the hand-carved fireplace mantles to the early Moore County pottery and pine furniture.
But it’s not just the interior that’s impressive. The Shaw House is located at the entrance to Southern Pines, and it’s stunning architecture and lush greenery make it a must-see for anyone visiting the Moore County area. This makes it one of the best free things to do in Southern Pines.
Weymouth Center for the Arts
If you want to walk through a historical marvel, This Georgian Manor-style house is the way to go! Weymouth Center for the Arts was once the residence of famous novelist James Boyd and his wife, Katharine.
The best part? You can enjoy the stunning grounds of the center for free! Stroll through the lush greenery and admire the breathtaking architecture of the manor.
Weymouth Center for the Arts is open every day from sunrise to sunset, so you can take your time and soak up all its beauty in the office beauty in hosting an event; indoor and outdoor spaces are available for rent.
But even if you are planning an event, there is still so much to see and enjoy. So, head over to the James Boyd Center and experience the charm and elegance of this historical gem for yourself, all for free!
Creation Museum
If you want a unique museum experience, check out the Creation Museum in Southern Pines, NC!
Not only does it share space with a Christian bookstore, antique museum, and Taxidermy Hall of Fame, but it also features fascinating exhibits related to creationism.
Step back in time and learn about the stories of creation while surrounded by various animals, tools, and other artifacts. From the stunning displays to the informative exhibits, you’ll be amazed at all the wonders you will encounter.
And the best part? It is all in one convenient location!
After exploring the museum, you can browse the Christian bookstore or admire the impressive collection of antiques. And if you’re a fan of taxidermy, you don’t want to miss the Hall of Fame!
The Bottom Line
While it is easy to grab your wallet and find fun things to do, it’s alot harder to find super fun things to do that won’t lose you money.
With all of the information outlined in the article above, you can take your pick of some of the best free things to do in Southern Pines! So all that’s left to do is for you to get out there and start collecting real memories that will last you a lifetime!