10 Things to Do with Kids in Southern Pines, NC

Whether you’re just visiting or settling into your new home, Southern Pines, NC, is full of hidden gems and family-friendly spots perfect for young children. From outdoor adventures to cozy cafés, here’s your guide to the best things to do in town with little ones in tow.

1. Betsy’s Crepes – Classic Diner Feels

Betsy’s Crepes is a quirky and colorful local staple that makes you feel like you’ve walked onto the set of Gilmore Girls. Sweet or savory—there’s something for every palate, even the picky ones.

2. Downtown Park – Toddler + Baby-Friendly Play

This centrally located Downtown Park features shaded benches, toddler-safe equipment, and lots of open space. It’s perfect for babies just learning to crawl or kids ready to climb.

Downtown Park in the heart of Southern Pines, NC - Photograph taken by Camryn Hollar Photography

Downtown Park in the heart of Southern Pines, NC - Photograph taken by Camryn Hollar Photography

3. Coffee Stops: Maisonette or Amor Ciego

Grab a treat at Maisonette for European-style ambiance (with a small play area for kids!) or pop into Amor Ciego Coffee Co. for smooth espresso and cozy seating.

Maisonette, a coffee shop in downtown Southern Pines, just a few blocks from Downtown Park

4. Weymouth Woods + Weymouth Center – Nature and History

Explore nature trails and kid-friendly exhibits at the Weymouth Woods Sandhills Nature Preserve, or stroll through the gardens at the historic Weymouth Center for the Arts & Humanities.

Weymouth Center for the Arts & Humanities, Photography by Clara Henk

Weymouth Center for the Arts & Humanities, Boyd Tract Trail, Photography by Clara Henk

5. Red’s Corner – Playground + Food Trucks for All

Red’s Corner is a local favorite, combining outdoor seating, a fenced-in playground, food trucks, and local drinks. It’s the perfect spot for parents to unwind while the kids stay entertained.

6. The Ice Cream Parlor – Burgers, Fries & Nostalgia

Step back in time at The Ice Cream Parlor, an at-home diner serving burgers, dogs, and homemade ice cream that’s as much fun for parents as it is for kids.

7. Reservoir Park – Walk, Paddle, or Picnic

This hidden gem offers around 2 miles of stroller-friendly trails, water views, and kayak rentals. Reservoir Park is ideal for nature lovers and casual strolls in nature.

Reservoir Park Trail Walk in Southern Pines, NC - Photo taken by Clara Henk

Reservoir Park Trail Walk in Southern Pines, NC - Photo taken by Clara Henk

Reservoir Park Trail Walk in Southern Pines, NC - Photo taken by Clara Henk

8. Sandhills Horticultural Gardens – Explore & Learn

Wander through Sandhills Horticultural Gardens and introduce your kids to plants of all kinds. Educational signage and quiet paths make it a peaceful outing for the whole family.

Sandhills Horticultural Gardens offers the most shade for our hot summer outings, just outside of Southern Pines, NC - Photo taken by Clara Henk

Alongside trails, Sandhills Horticultural Gardens offers fun trails and activities for kids - Photo taken by Clara Henk

Be on the lookout for seasonal hunts and events here - Photo taken by Clara Henk

9. Drop-in Classes

Relax and get indoors with two of our favorite local businesses:

• The Connection Corner hosts sensory play, music, yoga, and art sessions for young children—check their calendar for drop-in options!

• KidCentric Creative Studio is a sensory and craft space where kids can get messy, creative, and hands-on — and parents don’t have to worry about the clean-up! Open five days a week.

The Connection Corner, Downtown Southern Pines

10. Need a Break? Drop-Off Options for Kids

Whether you’re running errands or just need a few hours to yourself, try these options:

• DropZone Kids: Offers flexible short-term childcare with fun, supervised activities.

• Virto Kids: Virto Kids is a completely customized, hands-on space offering trusted drop-off care and play and stay opportunities.

Added Bonus: Browse the moco mom event calendar

Looking for what’s happening this week? The MoCo Mom calendar is the easiest way to find playdates, local classes, library events, and seasonal activities for families with young children. Save time, skip the scroll, and explore everything happening across Moore County for your crew.

And, if you’re looking for something a little more adventurous—something the whole family can enjoy and you’re willing to drive for—here are a few top picks:

• Museum of Life + Science (Durham) – A favorite for hands-on science, nature trails, and outdoor play

• Marbles Kids Museum (Raleigh) – Endless indoor play, plus grab lunch after at Transfer Co. Food Hall

• Discovery Place Kids (Rockingham) – Smaller, more affordable, and packed with fun for younger kids

• Greensboro Science Center (Greensboro) — Aquarium, zoo, treetop adventures, and wide-open space to learn, explore, and play — absolutely worth the drive!

• Miriam P. Brenner Children’s Museum (Greensboro) — Most similar to Discovery Place Kids. The entire museum is on one floor and packed with hands-on exhibits for a wide range of ages. It’s located right by LeBauer Park, making it easy to grab a cup of coffee or ice cream, play at the outdoor park, and head right back inside.

• North Carolina Zoo (Asheboro) — It’s an easy drive to Asheboro! With littles, we suggest picking either the North America or Africa side to explore and then turning around at Junction Plaza in the middle. We personally love the Africa side for the animals, but the play spaces on the North America side are incredible. There are even streams where kids can splash and play for some hands-on fun. And if you’re making a day of it, head to The Table afterward for some seriously good grub.
  

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