We know you're a cool G'ma. Or Gigi. Or Mimi. Or Nana. Or Grandpa/Papa—and if you’re here, we’re guessing you’re the kind who always has a snack in your pocket.
So, you’ve got the grandkids for the morning. Now what?
We’ve got you! Consider this your shortcut to being the grandparent who knows exactly where to grab breakfast, which playground is worth the trip, where to wander when everyone needs some fresh air, and—most importantly—where to end the morning with a treat.
No texting Mom asking what to do next! Pick your adventure, pack a snack (or head to that lovely bakery across the street), and go make a morning of it.
Pick Your Morning
Pinehurst: Coffee + Playground
Start at Given Tufts Bookshop, where you can grab a coffee from Brim, browse the books and let little ones enjoy some light play.
Then head over to Camelot Playground to really get the wiggles out — the grands will know it as the “Castle Park.” It's an easy morning, everything feels very Pinehurst, and you'll look like you planned the whole thing beautifully.
Aberdeen: Brunch + Play
Start with brunch at Mason's before heading to Blue Bird Play Café. Reservations are required at Blue Bird, so be sure to book ahead online (or give them a call at 910-637-0070) so you’re guaranteed a play spot!
Southern Pines: Crepes + Downtown
Take them to Betsy's Crepes for breakfast, then walk over to Downtown Park for the playground. It’s great for all ages, with two separate areas for big kids and littles.
Bonus points for wandering around downtown afterward and letting them feel like they're taking you on an adventure.
Or Pack Your Walking Shoes
If breakfast isn't the main event, make it an outdoor morning.
Explore the Sandhills Horticultural Gardens, walk around Reservoir Park, or head into the woods at Weymouth Woods.
None of these require an elaborate plan. Bring water, a snack, and let the kids lead the way.
Want to Look Really on Top of Things?
Libraries and businesses around Moore County regularly host storytimes and other activities for little ones. Check the MoCo Mom calendar before you head out and see what's happening that day:
Mom will be impressed. You don't even have to tell her we helped.
Obviously, There Should Be a Treat
A grandparent outing without a treat feels like a missed opportunity.
Step back in time at The Ice Cream Parlor or stop by Bravery Bakehouse for one of the largest cookies in, truly, one of the cutest venues.
Looking for more options? Check out a few more of our local guides!
Feeling Ambitious? Make It a Day Trip.
If you're ready to graduate from morning with the grandkids to Grandparent of the Year, you've got options.
Head to Discovery Place Kids in Rockingham for hands-on play, spend the day exploring the Greensboro Science Center, or make the drive to the North Carolina Zoo in Asheboro. If you choose the zoo, stop at The Table for a bite and make a full day of it.
We've rounded up even more adventures worth the drive here.
Now Go Be the Favorite
That's it. Breakfast. Adventure. Playground. Maybe a storytime. Definitely a treat.
Take a few pictures, let them get a little dirtier than Mom normally would, and send them home happy.
After all, isn't that what grandparents are for?