We all feel excited and cheerful when it comes to vacation planning. At the same time, we are perplexed when it comes to selecting the ideal location to suit all of our vacation requirements.
Keeping this in mind, we’ve come up with an incredible destination, Sanford in North Carolina, to make your trip pleasurable and rewarding.
Located at the heart of North Carolina, this pretty quaint town with just 28,000 residents is a testimonial to beauty and tranquility. Sanford attracts thousands of tourists every year thanks to its magnificent attractiveness. This is owing to the town’s remote position, which contributes to a clean and calm environment. Apart from its charming and serene setting, the town is noted for its rich and diverse history.
In the early twentieth century, Sanford served as a key source of brick, coal, and brownstone and was a business and development pioneer in the entire US region. Moreover, the town is named in honour of C.O. Sanford, a Civil Engineer who laid the groundwork for the region’s development by constructing rail lines in the area.
Sanford, however, is not only about serenity and history; it also has many unexpected surprises in store for every visitor. From wonderful food for foodies to natural parks and regions for nature lovers to theatres and much more for fun and literary fanatics, here you will find something for everyone.
If you’re still unsure about visiting Sanford, NC, don’t worry; we’ve collected a comprehensive list of the 10 best things to do in Sanford, NC to help you make up your mind. So Pack your carry on luggage bag and plan your trip to Sanford, NC.
Table of Contents
Best Things To Do In Sanford, NC
1. Try Mountain Biking at San-Lee Park
Vacations are all about fun and adventure, so start your trip in Sanford, NC by taking on the challenge of a mountain hiking trail in San-lee Park. Spanning over 177 acres, the park has four miles of hiking routes that weave through the woods and pass past two lakes, providing hikers with plenty of beautiful vistas to enjoy.
Apart from hiking, the park has a lot more to offer. It is a waterfront park where you may enjoy fishing, paddle boating, geocaching, and a variety of other leisure activities. There are also picnic areas and campgrounds in the same park, allowing you to arrange a stay with your friends and family. The park allows you to watch nature up close. You may spot birds, explore gorgeous woodlands, and fully appreciate nature’s splendor.
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2. Explore The History And Art At Sanford Mural Art Trail
Being in Sanford, how could one ignore the town’s fascinating history?
Visit the Sanford Mural Art Trail to learn more about the city’s history. Through the commemorative artwork, this place transports you back to the town’s early days. Ten artworks in total provide you with a glimpse into the city’s glorious past.
The first mural, named “Off to War,” recalls the contributions of Lee County men and women during World War II. Other murals depict the town’s lively past and magnificent culture. The artworks are located along a two-mile trail that also includes many vintage treasures.
3. Treat Your Cravings at Mrs Lacy Magnolia’s House
No one should miss out on Sanford’s delights, so make sure to stop by Mrs Lacy’s Magnolia House for a meal.
This is one of the best spots in Sanford to treat yourself to delicious meals. The Magnolia House restaurant specializes in desserts, salads, teas, coffees, and sandwiches. The restaurant not only delivers wonderful food, but it also has a perfect vintage ambience. Don’t forget to order the crispy apple served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream at the end.
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4. Look for Treasures at the Sanford Antique Mall
Do you have a fascination for antique items? Then this is one of the most interesting spots for you in Sanford.
It is a massive 18,000-square-foot marketplace that houses over 75 sellers of exotic and vintage materials. It has a treasure trove of antiques and unique items that you must take home as a souvenir. Everything is available here, including furniture, pottery, home décor, books, collectables, glassware, coins, toys, and so on. If you come here, you will not want to leave without purchasing something.
5. Catch A Show At Tempe Theatre
Do catch a show at the Tempe Theatre in Sanford, NC. The Tempe Theatre, which has been entertaining Sanford residents and guests since 1925, is one of the best places to learn about the city’s vibrant history.
The theatre’s stunning construction has earned it praise. Intricately painted walls and a tiled floor with woodwork are just a couple of the architectural marvels that will astound you. The theater hosts several performances of which you can be a part and enjoy! The Glenn Miller Band, the North Carolina Shakespeare Festival, and Red Clay Ramblers are just a few of the numerous special events that take place here.
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6. Get Lost In The Beauty Of Nature At White Pines Nature Preserve
Whether you are a nature lover or not, you ought to visit this spot in Sanford.
Located atop the mountain on Rocky River Road, the White Pine Nature Reserve spreads to an expansive area of 275 acres. Since it lies at the confluence of deep and rocky rivers, it stays relatively cooler as compared to the adjoining areas.
The scenery at White Pine allows you to appreciate the actual beauty and hues of nature, thus, it has a truly divine sensation. You may take advantage of the fresh air, the forest’s natural beauties, and sounds thanks to its rich biodiversity.
You can also take pleasure in hiking to the park. The primary attraction of the park is the presence of gorgeous and colorful migrating birds, including yellow-billed cuckoos and others. But because this location is remote, be sure to bring all your essentials.
7. Treat Your Pancakes Cravings At The Fairview Dairy Bar
Have you got a sweet tooth? Your desire for something delicious doesn’t seem to manifest despite all of your explorations. Then, stop by Fairview Dairy Bar.
Fairview Dairy Bar is a well-known eatery in Sanford serving lunch, supper, breakfast, and the restaurant’s signature desserts to its customers since the 1950s. The restaurant is particularly famous for its pancakes. Banana pudding, mocha almond fudge ice cream, and chocolate chip cookies are a few additional delicious desserts served here. Apart from delicious food, the restaurant features beautiful architecture and decor that transports you back in time to the 1950s.
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8. Witness The Natural Beauty In Ole Gilliam Mill Park
Lying along highway no 42, the Ole Gilliam Park is a secret oasis where you can really bask in nature and relish in solitude.
This property was formerly a mill and has now been transformed into a museum that offers a look at the 1800s sawmill industry. The park has a variety of interesting sights to view, including the longest-covered bridge in North Carolina, vintage steam engines, demonstrations of an old sawmill, and more. You can also participate in the museum’s annual Old Mill Crank-up event to get a close-up look at old antique machinery used in the 1800s.
9. Get Acquainted with the History at the Historic Railroad House
This museum is very significant because it serves as a reminder of how the town of Sanford came to be when it was connected to the rest of the nation. Situated near Charlotte Avenue in the downtown area of Sanford, the Historic Railroad House is one of the oldest houses in the town. The house was set to be demolished in 1962, but the locals intervened and established a railroad group to preserve this landmark, and it is now a museum.
The museum is home to numerous antique collections, including items from the Victorian era, Native American tools, prehistoric remains, steam locomotives, and more. Thus, this museum is among the best places to explore to learn about the establishment and backdrop of the town.
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10. Check Out Different Species At Priority Farm
If you love animals, a visit to Priority Farm LLC is a must.
Jim and Jackey established this farm in 2015 intending to teach children of single parents real-world skills and responsibilities via farming and gardening. The communal farm, which is now home to numerous crops and animals such as alpacas, Panda, Millie, and Shari, is a 27-acre (10-hectare) faith-based, non-profit property.
Here, you will be able to meet animals in person, as well as feed and touch them. You can also go hiking and explore the nearby natural surroundings if you wish. The farm also offers an educational facility and even a shop from where you may purchase unique items for long-term remembrance.
Plan Your Trip To Sanford Today!
Sanford, North Carolina exemplifies the state’s grandeur and glitz. It seems to have it all, entertainment, art, adventure, food, history, architecture, and perhaps more. The time you spend here will live on in your memories forever and will make you want to return.
So, plan your trip now and remember to pin this list of things to do to avoid any kind of confusion.
Have a fun-filled and memorable trip!!