Feelin’ Pine

We’re on pines and needles for a luscious getaway in the heart of “Horse Country.”

Saddle up and swing by Southern Pines—we can assure you it’s worth the day trip (or weekend!). Once you’ve rolled into town… take a scenic stroll along the railway that stretches through downtown while you satiate your shopping fix at boutiques and cute, quaint mom-and-pop shops.

A mere hour-ish hop from Raleigh—and not to be confused with its sister city Pinehurst (aka the “Golf Capital of the U.S.”), Southern Pines is home to a happening horse community and everything from stores and local breweries to restaurants on Broad Street to resorts (five-star shuteye, anyone?) and quaint bed and breakfasts, to name a few. 

And if you’re “headed down South to the land of the pines,” no jaunt would be complete without a lil time carved out to take in the trees that earned the spot its name. It promises to be treemendous. … Here, our insider itinerary for your Southern Pines sojourn.

DO

Mid Pines Inn & Golf Club
For a golf experience that’s a putt above, tee on up to this famed Donald Ross-designed course (ranked No. 2 in NC!), shaped to flow with the countryside—perf for both amateurs and athletes to get in on the action. May the course be with you… midpinesinn.com

The Country Bookshop
You’re definitely going to want to *book* some time to peruse the shelves of this old-fashioned-esque bookshop in the historic downtown shopping district feat. selects for readers of all interests and ages. Or stop by for regular events, including author talks, book launches and more. thecountrybookshop.biz

Sunrise Theater 
The show must go on… and on it goes at this remodeled Southern Pines landmark of the ’40s, still popping with freshly dropped films, outdoor concerts and live theater performances. Lights, camera, action! sunrisetheater.com

EAT

Betsy’s Crepes
Oh, crepe! No trip to the Pines would be complete without a stop at this iconic and classically cute brick-walled cafe known for its savory and sweet crepes—among other delish breakfast items. Keep it “Sweet & Simple” with butter, powdered sugar and cinnamon, or go savory with a huevos rancheros crepe. All crepe choices, if you ask us. @betsyscrepes_sp

Chef Warren’s Bistro 
Modeled after a turn-of-the-century French diner, this white-tablecloth resto will transport you to another era—in the best way possible. The open kitchen concept allows diners to get a glimpse of the behind-the-scenes culinary magic (pro tip: order the warm pecan pie for dessert), while a full bar and extensive wine list offer plenty to pair with the seasonal menu. Bon appetit! chefwarrens.com

Ashten’s Restaurant & Bar  
“Not new things but in new ways,” is the MO of this old English manor-style elevated eatery serving up globally inspired dishes from a Southern point of view via local ingredients—think fried pork loin with mushroom gravy and double chocolate salted caramel cake—by sisters Ashley and Quinten Van Camp. So, the perf perch for a romantic evening out, family supper or anything in between. ashtens.com

DRINK

Southern Pines Brewing Company 
“Rooted in community” since bowing in 2014, this frothy concept was brewed up by friends who met at Fort Bragg and bonded over a shared love for craft beer—then traded their uniforms for brewers’ boots, passports and pints. After traveling the world in pursuit of hoppiness, the trio established the brewery with a wide selection of brews, each made with a keen attention to detail. Cheers! southernpinesbrewing.com

The Bell Tree Tavern
Legend has it that weary travelers in search of a drink would have to ring a bell hidden inside a hollowed tree in order to signal they wanted moonshine. And while the hidden bell is now no more, the aptly dubbed tavern still promises to sate your thirst with a menu chock-full of spirits, beer and wine—NTM great pub food, an outdoor bar and live music on the weekends (!). thebelltreetavern.com

Pine Scone Cafe
“Everybody must get sconed” at this “home sweet scone,” where scones are, naturally, a must. Sweet and savory flavors include cranberry lemon, maple pecan and cheddar jalapeno—plus there’s a rotating seasonal scone of the month and sconewiches that’ll ruin every other sandwich for you going forward (worth it). Pair your meal with a handcrafted coffee or espresso drink and you’ve got a breakfast—or lunch—of champs. pinesconecafe.com

STAY

The Jefferson Inn
Lemme upgrade ya. Snooze in style at this recently reno’d boutique hotel (read: yearlong multimillion dollar restoration!)  … Meaning you can still experience the history and lifestyle of Southern Pines within the 15 luxe guestrooms and one-bedroom suites, but with the renewed modern opulence of 600-thread count Egyptian cotton sheets, custom-made down-filled duvets and pillows, and a tavern-style bar reminiscent of the early 1900s serving up drinks—natch—and live music. jeffersoninnsouthernpines.com

Duncraig Manor & Gardens
Where are our manors? This restored estate house offers up the essence of wealth from the ’30s with lodgings that perfectly balance modern amenities and historical charm. You’re going to want to explore the pristine gardens, terraces, library and game room—and stop in Caroline’s Kitchen when hunger strikes. duncraigmanorandgardens.com

Pine Needles Lodge & Golf Club
This champion course (hello, USGA record four-time U.S. Women’s Open host!) is clearly on a roll—but the all-in-one retreat is more than just an award-winning golf course. Think popular restos and lounges, and premier lodging. Spend the day taking in the sunset from your porch, strolling the grounds, playing a game of tennis, or getting the par-tee started on the green (hey, when in Rome). pineneedleslodge.com