To a Golfer, it’s a World Class Bucket List stop, but if golf isn’t on your list you may have skipped over this little southern gem as a vacation stop. Imagine the most beautiful manicured greens surrounded by miles of the pine trees–hence the name. Pinehurst and Southern Pines. As your drive down the road and pass beautiful green pastures some filled with golfers and the others with white fences and elegant horses, you can’t help but feel drawn in to the sights before you. Possibly not as majestic as the mountain range to the west or the beaches to the east in North Carolina -but still absolutely breathtaking. You will want to stop and stare in AWE. Something about it is so Peaceful and Heavenly. Since we were here during December, it is far from its most beautiful. Spring and Summer is EVEN more Amazing.
My family and I have been trying to give experiences rather than the gift of things that will be lost and forgotten. If we do the experience, we will always hold the memory. Since we have two golfers in my household, we decided a trip to Pinehurst and Southern Pines would be perfect.
But this left me wondering what in the world there would be for me to do while they played golf! Lots!!
First Stop Southern Pines………
As my boys hit the course for their round of golf, I headed down to Board street in Southern Pines. It’s a cute little street with old school charm. Antique stores, a charming bookstore, a Cheese store called Southen Whey (so cute), a Wine Cellar, boutiques, gift shops and restaurants. It was all decorated for Christmas with lights and trees. Everyone was so festive and after a while, I NEEDED to stop off for an egg nog at Chapman’s Food and Spirits.
Around the corner is one of my son’s favorite places to eat – Sweet Basil. They have great sandwiches and they even leave simple syrup on the tables in case your Sweet Tea needs to be even sweeter! Can you see the pattern here?
Next Stop, Pinehurst
If you haven’t been to Pinehurst, one of the first things you need to be sure to add to your list is the Pinehurst Resort. One of the Historic Hotels of America built in 1895. It’s southern charm and character will draw you in the minute you walk in. Full of pictures, memories of some of golf’s greatest legends, along with many other famous historic people through the years such as, Anne Oakley and Amelia Earhart who once graced its doors. The walls tell a story worth checking out. When we arrived it was all decorated for Christmas, with Christmas Goodies, hot cider, horse-drawn carriage rides, gingerbread house displays, and ice skating. It was very easy to get into the Christmas Spirit. What a beautiful memory to share with the family.
Whenever we got to Pinehurst we have to stop at one of my favorite restaurants.
Ironwood Cafe. They have wonderful Brunch and it’s not to miss! My favorite is Red Velvet Waffles with Rosemary fried chicken and Rosemary infused syrup. Just get it! All of their dishes are Great.
Here are a few other Great dishes they offer……
We didn’t have time to get to Pinehurst Village on this visit but it is also a fun little area to check out. Cool restuartants and shops. I will do a post from there in the future to add to this.
Tips and Tricks……
- If you aren’t a golfer, Pinehurst and Southern Pines still have something for you. Beauty, Fun, relaxation, good food, shopping, history and southern charm. Don’t miss it!
- If you are a golfer, you will be in Heaven! No need to say more!
- Don’t miss the Pinehurst Resort anytime of the year. But Christmas time is extra special!
- Walk down Broad Street in Southern Pines.
- Be sure to visit Pinehurst Village!
- Make a reservation at Ironwood Cafe for Brunch. You won’t be disappointed.
Thanks for joining us on this Journey. Looking to the New Year and our new adventures ahead! Please subscribe, Like and Follow us on Instagram, Facebook and Pinterest.
Joys On A Journey
*These are just some of my favorite spots. I was not paid to promote any of these places. Try at your own risk!! Let me know if you do check them out. I would love to hear your feedback and comments!