With the U.S. Open Golf Championship in Pinehurst, North Carolina getting underway today, we figured we would share some of the lore of the course and area with you!
There are some hidden gems, collectibles, and traditions that really make this place special!
Some of these are attainable while in the area for the U.S. Open and some you’ll have to come back for, when you can spend a weekend playing No.2 or some of other amazing courses.
The Deuce Coin
First off, if you fancy a keepsake from a round of golf in Pinehurst, and if you’re one of the few that happen to score a two on No. 2, then you’re in for a treat – a Deuce coin! It’s a token from The Deuce that acknowledges the huge accomplishment and then on the tail side says: “I’ll drink to that.” A really cool and unique piece of memorabilia you can brag about to your friends.
Mile High Key Lime Pie
Our second hidden gem is an oh so tasty one! Make sure you don’t skip the Mile High Key Lime Pie at The Carolina. It’s the biggest piece of pie I can remember and is a must-try!
The Fox Squirrel
Number 3: Have you heard of a fox squirrel? A lot of people get confused when they come to Pinehurst and see these cute black and white squirrels running around the course. And it’s pretty simple why people are a little bit bewildered. It’s because they just don’t look like a regular squirrel. So, while you’re strolling around, keep an eye out because you may see a new-to-you unusually colored cute critter. Rumor has it they especially like having fun around the 18th tee box on No. 2.
The Cradle Hole In One Chip
Now, this one you sadly won’t be able to do during the Open. But, when you return to Pinehurst for a round, if luck is on your side and you score a hole in one on The Cradle, you’re in for a treat. After the celebration walk on up to the Starter’s Hut and tell them your good news. You’ll be awarded a coveted chip, reminiscent of a poker chip, boasting the logo and number of the hole you aced. There’s nine in total to collect. Get ‘em all!
Who knew you could find so many diverse and free tees in Pinehurst? You’ll find a bunch at the Starter’s Hut and even more secretly tucked away at The Nest. They even have exclusive spring tees at the main golf shop during springtime with the pink and white Cradle logo. Then you’ll also find that The Cradle Crossing, The Manor, and The Carolina all have their own tees too – perfect for any collector. Can you find them all on your visit? There’s also the super secret Dornoch Cottage tee, named after a cottage owned by Donald Ross, that you should keep an eye out for around No. 2. Good luck and if you collect ’em all let us know!
The Pinecone
This is not necessarily a secret or a hidden gem, but it is a wonderful visit for anyone that completed No. 2. It’s The Pinecone mobile bar that is situated in between the 18th Green and the range. It’s a landmark that more people should know about.
Alright, here’s a delicious secret. If you have a sweet tooth and you are in the area of the Magnolia Inn you’re in luck. Mosy on up to the second floor and you’ll find a guest book full of stories of amazing stays at the inn. Next to it, there’s a basket full of free Cranberry Almond White Chocolate Cookies. Supposedly, they’re for guests only, but who’s really checking?
A Cup Collection
Now, if you’re like me, you have a tee shirt and a cup from everywhere you have played or visited. Well, when it comes to a unique piece of memorabilia in Pinehurst there’s actually an entire collection of golf (clear stadium) cups you can obtain if you visit the right places? The main resort features the standard Pinehurst Resort cup that you can get at the 91st Hole and The Deuce. Then at the Nest you can stumble upon a unique cup: the Red-cockaded Woodpecker cup that says “Dodging Shots At Pinehurst,” and there’s also The Spa at Pinehurst cup, but you have to order a smoothie to get one. Then, there’s the Cradle Crossing cup, which is a real catch too!
Bagpipe Playing
The coolest tradition that I love happens every Thursday to Sunday at 6 pm: A bagpiper plays for 20 minutes at the front of the Carolina Hotel. It’s a musical ritual you can’t miss!
Build Your Own Bloody Mary Bar
And lastly, you gotta check out the Build Your Own Bloody Mary Bar at the Carolina Dining Room, and don’t forget to add the hot honey bacon – it’s an absolute gamechanger.
Enjoy some of our other shots here around beautiful Pinehurst:
