Pinehurst is famous for golf, but you need not play golf to enjoy this town. First-time visitors are often surprised by all that there is to do apart from the courses. Pinehurst is peaceful, easy to walk in key areas, family-friendly, and overflowing with simple experiences that make a trip relaxing and memorable. This guide has a focus on the best things to do in Pinehurst, NC, if you do not golf, with clear ideas on what to do for couples, families, and first-time visitors.
Pinehurst is best eaten by walking rather than running. The purpose is not to hurry from one attraction to the next, but to savor the ambiance, food, and little moments in between.
Things to Do in Pinehurst, NC
Take a tour of Weymouth Center and Gardens
Weymouth Center for the Arts and Humanities
A historic estate with quiet gardens all around. Visitors can walk the grounds for free and enjoy peaceful paths and shaded benches. The home has literary history and holds cultural events throughout the year. Best for a dead quiet morning or early afternoon visit.
Visit the Taxidermy Museum
Taxidermy Museum Campbell House Galleries
A distinctive and educational destination with historical displays of wildlife. This is not a lengthy visit, but it is interesting to adults and curious kids. Good add-on when exploring downtown Southern Pines.
Breathe In and Chill Out at a Salt Spa
Solasta Salt Cave
A quiet wellness experience of relaxation. Guests sit down in a room filled with salt, with the aim of calming their breathing and alleviating stress. Best for couples or solo travelers who wish to slow down.
Catch a Production at the Historic Sunrise Theater
Sunrise Theater
A resurrective theater with live performance, concerts, film, and community presentations. Check the schedule in advance, as shows are different by season. Great evening activity.
Fill Up Your Shopping Bag
The design of Southern Pines downtown is walkable and filled with boutiques, gift shops, bookstores, and local stores. This is one of the best areas in Moore County for browsing and casual shopping. Easy to use in conjunction with lunch or coffee.
Take a tour of the Village Arboretum
Village Arboretum
A still botanical space with labelled native plants and shady paths. Ideal for a slow walk and a photograph.
Watch the Sunrise or Sunset at Lake Pinehurst
Lake Pinehurst
A serene place for early mornings or golden hour views. Calm water, light reflections, and few people.
Visit the Old Golf Shop Museum
Old Golf Shop
A small museum-style shop of rare golf artifacts and history, even interesting to the non-golfer.
Take a Scenic Drive Through the Sandhills
Drive the back roads around Pinehurst and Southern Pines to see horse farms, longleaf pines, and classic southern landscapes.
Attend a Seasonal Festival/Market
Moore County
Local markets and seasonal festivals display crafts, food, and community culture. Dates vary by season.
Take the Lake Loop Hike at Reservoir Park
Reservoir Park
An easy and scenic loop trail around the water. Flat and appropriate for all ages. Ideal for morning strolls, family, and anyone who would like a simple activity to do outdoors without going crazy with too many people.
Visit the Winter Home of Champions (Pinehurst Harness Track)
Pinehurst Harness Track
A historic area of horse training related to the equestrian history of Pinehurst. Visitors can walk the grounds and read about the lesser-known history of sports in this town. Quiet and educational.
Peek Into The Past Of Pinehurst At The Tufts Archives
Tufts Archives
A small but informative archive on the history and development of Pinehurst. Best for those visitors interested in local stories, photos, and early town planning.
Would You Care for a Spot of Tea? (Lady Bedford’s Tea Parlour)
Lady Bedford’s Tea Parlour
A traditional tea room, which provides afternoon tea, light meals, and desserts. Popular with visitors who are seeking a relaxed, traditional experience. Reservations are recommended during busy seasons.
Relax With A Bit of Retail Therapy
Pinehurst Village has small shops, gift stores, and specialty boutiques. The atmosphere is calm, and it is easy to walk around. Ideal for Slow Afternoons & Casual Browsing
Other Things to Do in Moore County
Visit Dalton Pottery
Dalton Pottery
A famous pottery store for North Carolina handmade pottery. Visitors can browse, shop, and learn about the pottery traditions of the region. Best for souvenirs and unique gifts.
Visit a Special Sanctuary for Unwanted, Injured, and Mistreated Animals
Carolina Tiger Rescue
An educational wildlife sanctuary dedicated to the rescue and conservation of animals. Visits are guided and must be booked in advance. Creaturesicle is Great for families and animal lovers.
Search for the Hidden Objects in the Carthage Murals
Carthage Murals
Public Murals Throughout Carthage That Contain Hidden Images And References To History. A Locally Fun and interactive activity for kids and adults. Works well as a short stop or photo walk.
There is much more to Pinehurst than golf. From historical sites and nature trails to shopping, eating, and outings to nearby towns, it is absolutely perfect for first-time visitors and travelers with families, or just relaxed travelers. With wise planning, Pinehurst and Moore County provide for the easy and enjoyable getaway for every type of traveler.
See the Boyd House Literary Grounds
Boyd House
Walk the grounds where famous American writers once lived. Quiet, reflective, and culturally meaningful.
Visit Seagrove Pottery Highway Studios
Seagrove
Drive the pottery highway to see working pottery studios, see artists at work, and purchase one-of-a-kind handmade pieces.
Horse Watching at Walthour-Moss Foundation
Walthour-Moss Foundation
Open land preserve featuring trails you can walk, and often see horses running freely. Peaceful and very local.
Cartagena Historic Courthouse Square Walking Tour
Carthage Courthouse Square
A small town historic square with architecture, local stores, and quiet streets that are perfect for a short walk.
Tasting Great Sandhills Local Wine
Sandhills
Small wineries and tasting rooms in the region have relaxed tasting with no crowds. Best for couples and slow travelling days.
Pinehurst has a great deal to offer other than just golf. From historical sites and nature trails to shopping and dining, nearby towns offer experiences to relax. The area is perfect for first-time visitors, families, and other visitors looking to relax. With a bit of thought put into your trip, Pinehurst and Moore County make a simple and enjoyable getaway for all types of travelers.
