Looking for the best things to do in Sanford, NC?
Sanford (population 30,000) is a central Piedmont, North Carolina town. It is surrounded on three sides by the mountains to the west, the seashore to the east, and the gently sloping hills to the south.
The area is laced with rivers and streams, which offer chances for lucrative cash crops (mainly tobacco) and leisure amenities for pursuits like water skiing, camping, and hiking.
Sanford has been a thriving railroad and industrial hub since its incorporation in 1874. It is renowned as one of the country’s top brick and pottery goods makers.
Overall, Sanford, NC, is a pleasant city to live in. Additionally, downtown Sanford is charming and walkable and has a lot of promise.
This article explores some of the city’s important sites and attractions. Let’s check them out.
Things to Do in Sanford, NC
1. Mural Art Trail

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Enjoy the well-known Mural Art Trail in Sanford as you travel across the city.
These monumental pieces of art, such as the Tobacco Mural recognizing Sanford’s deep agricultural origins and the “Off to War” WWII Mural honoring Lee County veterans, represent the rich history and imagination of the city.
Other, more whimsical murals, such as the Dream Mural, and the Fairview Dairy Mural, the first of its type in North Carolina and incorporating 3-D cows, depict the spirit and ingenuity of the region.
You’ll have some “Instagrammable” pictures from this unforgettable must-see to show your friends and family.
2. Mann Center Of North Carolina

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On your vacation to Sanford, you should stop by the Mann Center of North Carolina if you enjoy the arts.
The Arts and Community Center of Lee County is located in this historic old school, dubbed “The Crown Jewel of Lee County.”
The Mann Center is the ideal location for gatherings and celebrations and is the site of several community theater performances, concerts, and other productions throughout the year.
Visit the Miller Art Gallery while you’re there to see works by regional artists from Lee County and the surrounding area.
Discover the creations of more than 50 artisans and bring a one-of-a-kind treasure home.
Location: 507 N Steele St #10, Sanford, NC 27330, United States
3. Sanford Iconic Chill Spot

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You’re going to be hungry after all that exercise, so stop by one of Sanford’s famous restaurants or bars to sate your hunger and quench your thirst.
Lunch at local favorites like Mrs. Lacy’s Magnolia House and Fairview Dairy Bar is ideal. At the same time, dinner at The Flame Steakhouse and La Dolce Vita Pizzeria will leave you feeling satisfied.
Local Joe’s, Hugger Mugger Brewing Company, and Camelback Brewing Company are some of the town’s most favored places to drink.
Or sate your sweet craving with a freshly baked doughnut from Sandra’s Bakery or an ice cream cone from Yarborough’s Homemade Ice Cream.
There is no possibility that you will leave Sanford with an empty stomach if you stop by any of these mouthwatering places.
4. Historic Temple Theatre

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Get the most out of your trip to Sanford by seeing a performance at the famed Temple Theatre.
The theater, which was opened in 1925, was formerly a favorite venue for Vaudeville acts and celebrities due to its handy location close to the train station.
The theater has hosted roadshows, shown local performances, and directed films over the years.
Today, it is the ideal spot to see live performances by professionals or other unique events all year long.
Location: 116 N Main St, Viroqua, WI 54665, United States
5. Depot Park

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Explore Depot Park after seeing the Historic Railroad House. In the summer, cool yourself with a splash in the well-liked interactive fountain, or participate in the December Christmas tree and train lighting event.
Look at Old Steam Locomotive #12 at Depot Park’s center. This locomotive, which has a history spanning more than a century, is a striking sight for both kids and adults.
In the center of downtown Sanford, Depot Park provides a unique, energetic environment for business, play, or leisure.
Location: 106 Charlotte Ave, Sanford, NC 27330, United States
6. Golf Exploring at Tobacco Road Golf Course

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Get ready for lots and lots of golf! With four award-winning public golf courses nearby, Sanford, NC, is the place to go to swing a club.
Tobacco Road Golf Course, ranked among the best in the world, is a challenging course with unusually shaped and sized greens that test players’ skills.
Quail Ridge Golf Course offers a lovely, cheap course with a complete grill, allowing families to spend the day on the links. Carolina Lakes Golf Course takes pride in being playable for players of any ability level.
The Sanford Municipal Golf Course completes the list, providing stunning vistas of Buffalo Creek, pine trees, and flowering azaleas while you play.
Location: 442 Tobacco Rd, Sanford, NC 27332, United States
7. San Lee Park

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Explore San-Lee Park’s 177+ verdant acres while taking in some fresh air. Take a hike along one of the park’s numerous meandering routes or go mountain biking.
Bring some PB&J sandwiches so you may have a picnic or go fishing in one of the lakes at San-Lee Park.
Look for songbirds like the Great Crested Flycatcher and Hooded Warbler if you enjoy bird-watching.
The seasonal paddle boat trips are something else you should look into.
Location: 760 Pumping Station Rd, Sanford, NC 27330, United States
8. Sanford Antique Mall

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Step back in time and explore the Sanford Antique Mall’s treasured treasures. Visitors are guaranteed to uncover a hidden gem to take home thanks to the 75 merchants and more than 18,000 square feet of display.
Look through the crockery, glassware, retro jewelry, and apparel. Explore the varied selection of historical pieces, including Victorian, Queen Anne, Art Deco, American Primitive, and Mid-Century Modern pieces.
At the largest antique mall in the Sandhills, there is always something new to discover, thanks to a constantly changing inventory.
Location: 118 S Moore St, Sanford, NC 27330, United States
9. Historic Railroad House

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Visit the Historic Railroad House to find out more about the history of the Town of Sanford if the Sanford Antique Mall aroused your interest in it.
The Raleigh & Augusta Airline Railroad was extended from Raleigh to downtown Sanford, and the Railroad Residence, the oldest house in Sanford, was first constructed for the family of the first station agent.
The Railroad House, which narrowly escaped demolition in 1962, now welcomes tourists as a neighborhood museum.
Location: 110 Charlotte Ave, Sanford, NC 27330, United States
10. White Pines Nature Preserve

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Were you trying to find even more open areas? The 275 acres of some of the most stunning nature preserves you’ll ever see makeup White Pines Nature Preserves.
The white pines that formerly flourished there during the last ice age, over 10,000 years ago, gave the preserve, nestled between the Rocky and Deep Rivers, its name.
The preserve is now a calm haven for tourists and white pines to avoid the summer heat since its temperatures can be up to 10 degrees lower than those of adjacent towns.
Year-round hiking routes provide breathtaking views of the forest and waterways. Even one of the numerous animal species that call the preserve home could be visible.
Location: 548 S Rocky River Rd, Sanford, NC 27330, United States
11. Hugger Mugger Brewing Company

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Do you want to know where to go that is good in Sanford, NC? You’ll be happy you stopped by the Hugger Mugger Brewing Company afterward.
The Hugger Mugger Brewing Company is a neighborhood brewery serving 18 locally made beers in a kid- and family-friendly setting along Wicker Street in Sanford, NC.
When you walk in, the size of the establishment and its beer variety are the first things you notice.
This is perfect for unwinding with friends and having drinks on a Friday night. Hanging out at Hugger Mugger Brewing Company is one of Sanford’s residents’ preferred nighttime activities.
If you decide to attend, sample their Belgian Quad or Chocolate Milk Stout if you have a sweet taste.
12. Ole Gilliam Mill Park

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Are you trying to find free activities in Sanford? Visit Ole Gilliam Mill Park, a hidden historical gem, when you want to unwind in nature and escape the hustle and bustle of the city while learning a little about its past.
You can find Ole Gilliam Mill Park on Highway 42 West in Sanford, NC.
The park has several historic structures, a stage, a theater, a covered bridge, and other fascinating sights.
If you’re looking for something different to do in Sanford, visit Ole Gilliam Mill Park. Check out the historic sawmill, old steam engines, and other fascinating sights.
The Old Mill Crank-up, an annual event where keepers operate antique machinery as a demonstration, is another thing you wouldn’t want to miss.
Location: 4717 Carbonton Rd #4637, Sanford, NC 27330, United States
13. Priority Farms LLC

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Are you searching for fun things to do in Sanford? We advise taking your children to the Priority Farm so they may have a fun and instructive tour while learning about all the farm’s animals.
Sanford, NC’s Buckhorn Road is where you can find Priority Farm LLC. Alpacas, chickens, and other farm animals may be seen on the farm.
You may also check out various trails, a store, and a learning facility. Meet some of Priority Farm’s adorable resident alpacas.
Visit Panda, Millie, Shari, and Awie so you may feed and pet these cuddly, hairy creatures.
Location: 1042 Buckhorn Rd, Sanford, NC 27330, United States
14. Kiwanis Children’s Park Place Shelter

Credit: CityofSanfordNC / sanfordnc.net
The Kiwanis Children’s Parkplace Shelter is a great place to have your next gathering. Bring your streamers, balloons, and birthday banners to liven up the space.
Are you on a trip? Wondering where you should go today? Why not spend a pleasant afternoon with your kids at the Kiwanis Children’s Parkplace Shelter?
The Kiwanis Children’s Parkplace Shelter, which may accommodate small neighborhood gatherings and festivities, is situated at 807 Tryon Street in Sanford, NC.
The covered area may also be used to picnic with family or friends.
Location: 101 Park Ave, Sanford, NC 27330, United States
15. Kiwanis Family Park

Credit: CityofSanfordNC / sanfordnc.net
At 1800 Wicker Street in Sanford, NC, Kiwanis Family Park has a playground, a greenway, a walking track, workout equipment, and much more.
It’s one of the most incredible things to do in Sanford, NC, especially if you enjoy being outside.
Bring the kids to the Kiwanis Family Park in their swimwear, and let them splash about on the free splash pad there.
It is ideal for hot summer days when most local children go there to cool down and have fun while on summer vacation.
Location: 1800 Wicker St, Sanford, NC 27330, United States
Conclusion
Sanford, NC, is a great city, and if you’re planning a trip to this city, you’re in for a fantastic time. Regardless of age or race.
Use this article as your friendly guide to exploring some of the city’s best locations and attractions.