Itineraries
Take the guesswork out of planning your trip. Simply enjoy yourself with Sanford, NC travel itineraries uniquely curated for memorable visits.
Summer Fun Itinerary
Sanford, NC is for unforgettable summer experiences you simply can’t pass up! Here’s the perfect itinerary for a fun summer weekend filled with music, art, outdoor activities, and much more. With the season in full swing, start planning your trip now and we’ll see you in Sanford.
Day One
First Stop
Free Concert at Kiwani's Family Park
There’s nothing quite like a summer concert and Sanford has a whole series of them! Each Thursday night, Kiwani’s Family Park hosts some of the best talent around, covering a variety of music genres as part of the City Parks Summer Concert Series. Don’t miss fan favorites such as The Simpletones and Dalton Davis.
Second Stop
Check In to Check Out Sanford
Located just a few miles form San-Lee Park is Sugarneck, a venue turned glamping respite located in the Sugarneck area of Lee County. Enjoy private accommodations just near the Cape Fear River with dedicated bath houses, hot water, gas cooking and fire pits. If you prefer a hotel stay, find all our hotel brands and partners here.
Day Two
First Stop
Family-Style Breakfast
Ease into a fun-filled day with a nostalgic breakfast at the Fairview Dairy Bar. Saddle up to the diner’s counter for a blast from the past or make it a family meal seated in a comfy booth. Be sure to ask for the chocolate sauce to complement the fruit side or the character pancakes for the little ones.
Second Stop
Bike. Hike. Paddle. Repeat.
Sanford and Lee County boast miles of hiking, mountain bike and paddling trails. Download full trail maps or swing by the Sanford Visitor’s Center to pick up printed copies.
Keep your cool out on the water with plenty of river access points including the new kayak/canoe ramp at the 421 bridge at the Deep River. Need to borrow a kayak? Reserve all your gear with the Cape Fear River Adventures for easy delivery to your selected boat ramp.
Launching a power boat for fishing? Head to the access point at the Lee/Chatham line for the Cape Fear River. Anglers will also want to cast their lines at the reservoir at San-Lee Park. .
Third Stop
Enjoy the Water Works
For the kids in your traveling crew, check out the awesome (and free!) splash pad at Kiwanis Family Park. The park also has swings, a playground, picnic shelters and a winding walking trail. Grab a picnic box and a drink from Libations 139 and make an afternoon of it.
Day Three
First Stop
Sanford Famers' Market
Come meet local farmers and artisans and celebrate NC agriculture and craftsmanship! The Market offers a diverse selection of seasonal vegetables, fruit, meat, flowers, baked goods, crafts, and more, all produced within the local community. Operating hour: Saturdays, 8:30 A.M. to noon.
Second Stop
Sanford Public Mural Arts Trail
Soak up rich history on display through a public arts initiative that promotes Sanford’s roots, honors our hometown heroes and celebrates the things that make us a one-of-a-kind destination. Download the tour map and the self guided audio tour.
Third Stop
Sanford Train Scavenger
Hunt down 12 miniature replicas of engine no. 12 throughout Downtown Sanford. Explorers can pick up a passport book from the Visitors Center or download one to use as a guide to search out each train. Turn in a complete passport and receive a prize.
Fourth Stop
Sanford Antique Trail
Discover the new, old, and unique at our antique and vintage shops. Sanford Antique Trail maps are here and also at each of the seven trail stops.
Fifth Stop
Downtown Sanford Dining
Dine out and enjoy delicious eats sure to satisfy any appetite! For a full dining guide, visit the Visitors Center, or check out our online dining directory.
Outdoor Enthusiast Weekend
Get back to nature to enjoy lush green spaces and our bounty of outdoor recreational activities. Here’s the the perfect itinerary for outdoorsy types looking to discover their next great adventure in Sanford, NC.
Day One
First Stop
Last-Minute Provisions
Stock up on firewood, s’mores fixins, rain gear and any other supplies you may need for your outdoor adventures at local shops. Located on the Deep River in Gulf, NC, JR Moore & Son stocks quick-fix meals, boots, outdoor wear, snacks and other essentials. It’s also a fun place to browse. If you don’t find what you’re looking of there, head over to Broadway, NC to Broadway Hardware. Here, you’ll find the hardware to get you prepared to camp, fish, hunt and more in mere minutes. Hunting and fishing licenses can also be purchased at the store as well.
Second Stop
Set Up Camp
From camping to glamping, Sanford has the best of the best! The campground at San-Lee Park for instance, has a bath house and loads of scenic spots for tent camping. You’re also just a short walk from lake fishing, mountain biking, paddle boating and nature trails.
Prefer a few more amenities and creature comforts? Check out Sugarneck, a venue turned glamping respite located in greater Lee County near the Cape Fear River. Enjoy private accommodations with dedicated bath houses for each tent, hot water, gas cooking and fire pits.
If you prefer a hotel stay, find all our hotel brands and partners here.
Day Two
First Stop
Family-Style Breakfast
For a hearty start to the day, pile up at Brass Kettle Family Restaurant. Famous for breakfast, and plenty of outdoor seating, the Kettle sets you up nicely for a full day on the river and/or trail.
Second Stop
Cast Off For Open Waters
If you’re especially looking to get out on the water during your trip, Sanford and Lee County boast several river access points. Kayak Ramp at U.S. 421 Bridge on the Deep River is a great launching off spot for kayaks and canoes. Got your power boat in tow? Head over to the Lee/Chatham county line for access to the Cape Fear River.
Anglers, both amateur and professional alike, will also definitely want to cast their lines at the reservoir at San-Lee Park. Check in at the nature center for complimentary fishing rods and tackle. You’ll also find great mountain bike and hiking trails there as well.
Third Stop
Afternoon Greenway Hike, A Thrilling Bike Ride, or Both
Wind down from an active day with a leisurely stroll on the Kiwanis Family Park Greenway, which winds through some naturally beautiful spots. Or, keep the adrenaline pumping over at San-Lee Park. Hop on your mountain bike and catch some major air tackling several trails of varying degrees of difficulty.
Day Three
First Stop
Pack Up and Head Out For More Recreation
Another day on the river or trail? Yes, please! Here are a few more recommendations for outdoor activities and places to stock up on the right gear.
Bonus
Gear
Back to Dirt Bike Shop can service your bike, show you the best new wheels on the market, and offer you some great accessories. They’re also in the know on the best road routes in the area if you’re looking to embark on a ride.
Bonus
Activity
For a one-mile trail with the opportunity for clay shooting at its finest, check out Deep River Sporting Clays. From their wobble deck to the full trail, the DSRC staff is ready to assist everyone from novice to seasoned shooters.
Bonus
Trails
Download full maps online of all the hiking, biking and paddle trails in the area. You can also get them at the Sanford Visitor’s Center. For an additional adventure during your trip, embark on our outdoor public art, antique, and BBQ trails as well.
Golf Getaway
Beautiful weather calls for easy travel to Sanford, NC. Enjoy renowned golf, beautiful scenery, comfortable accommodations, delicious meals and a vibrant downtown scene.
Courses
Day One
Lake Course
Take on the Lake Course with its picturesque views of Lake Trace accompanied by championship designs. Most notably, the 6th and 8th holes are par threes with dramatic downhill tee shots. In addition, the 13th hole, a par three as well, has the vast expanse of the lake as a panoramic background. Rounding out the course are two par fives for charging the green. Finally, there’s the 18th hole with an 80-ft. drop in elevation over its 507-yard layout.
Day Two
Creek Course
Tee off on the Creek Course complete with dramatic elevation changes, rolling terrain and a meandering creek. Bermuda grass covers the narrow fairways with greens composed of Mini Verde Bermuda. Notable holes include the 3rd which was featured prominently in Golf Course Home Magazine. The 4th, 15th and 16th holes also require careful navigation of streams and ponds. Similarly, the 18th green sits at one of the most dramatic junctures on the property – a slice of land surrounded by water on three sides.
Accommodations
After a day of challenging golf, kick back for an overnight stay with one of our many hotel accommodations, including Home2Suites, Hampton Inn, Holiday Inn Express, and more. Find all our hotel brands and partners here. Prefer an Airbnb? Sanford has no shortage of short term rentals to choose from.
Dining
Lunch
Settle in for a casual meal at Jones Pub where you can dine indoors, outdoors on the patio or at the full-length bar while overlooking Lake Trace, Lake #18 and the putting green. The pub serves up delightful dishes like traditional fish and chips or the more modern Southern-charred brussels sprouts salad with chicken and goat cheese. You can also enjoy craft drinks while you catch the game on the pub’s large flat screen TVs.
Dinner
Nothing completes a day of golf better than sitting down to a mouthwatering steak at The Flame Steakhouse. Enjoy a 12-oz. filet mignon alongside a loaded back potato, or maybe start your meal with the restaurant’s house-made crab cakes. You can even opt for topping your steak with blue cheese, sautéed mushrooms and onions. Whatever your dinner order, the fine-dining service here will completely blow you away and make you feel like royalty.
Pet-Friendly Weekend
Do you love your pets so much that you can’t bear to travel without them? Then Sanford, NC is a wonderful and welcoming destination for a pet-friendly weekend for you and your fur babies!
Day One
First Stop
Check In at Hotel
Fido is part of the family, and Sanford has several pet-friendly hotel options that offer a comfortable stay for you and your four-legged friend!
Second Stop
Wild Dogs Brewing Company
Make you way down to Steele St. with your pet in tow to enjoy a cold craft beverage. You can rest assured that pets are welcome here because “dogs” is in the name! Most nights feature games, live entertainment or sports broadcasts paired with good-ole’ fashioned, friendly socialization.
Third Stop
Outdoor Dining
Dine al fresco on patios (heated on cold days) that include a space for your pet pal. You’ll find them at eateries like Bubba’s Pizza and Subs, Smoke and Barrel, Camelback Brewing and La Dolce Vita.
Day Two
First Stop
Brunch at Buttermilk Biscuit Bar
Check out Sanford’s first full ghost kitchen. Order online for a delectable dish like Cheshire bacon, folded egg and Harvati cheese piled high on a golden buttermilk biscuit! Gluten-free options are available. Dine on the patio and watch the goings-on of the Farmers Market and the Train Depot with your pooch.
Second Stop
Farmer’s Market For Browsing
Shop fresh produce, preserves and more from local farms. Come meet your local farmers and artisans and celebrate NC agriculture and craftsmanship at the market! Pet-friendly products are available as well!
Third Stop
Enjoy an Afternoon Hike
Let the pups run free at O.T. Sloan Dog Park or enjoy nature with a winding hike at San-Lee Park or on the Kiwanis Park Greenway.
Day Three
First Stop
Lunch at Quick Bites
Quick Bites, conveniently located near your hotel, offers a small outdoor seating area to the side of the restaurant that’s pet-friendly. Go for the chicken salad and homemade chips dipped in ranch. Absolute heaven!
Second Stop
Walk the Mural Trail
Soak up Sanford’s rich history on display through a public arts initiative that promotes the town’s roots, honors hometown heroes and celebrates the things that make us a one-of-a-kind destination. Eight murals are viewable on a walking route through downtown. Be sure to install the Otocast app and listen to the inspiration behind each work of art.
Romantic Weekend
Sanford, NC welcomes with open arms couples looking to spark a bit of romance for the weekend! Plan your trip with this curated itinerary of lovely experiences.
Day One
First Stop
Libations 139 Weekend Kickoff
Toast love, devotion or at the very least, fondness for one another. At Libations 139, you’ll find the best cocktail/mixed drinks as well as the best wine selection according to the 2021 Best of Lee County Awards. Opened by celebrated chef Greg Hamm, this bar and event space has an open, bottle shop feel that’s perfect for mixing and mingling. With craft beer on tap and a wide selection of tasty bar bites as well, there’s very little reason to pass this spot by.
Second Stop
Check-In at The Lutterloh
The Lutterloh is a fully renovated apartment in the heart of Downtown Sanford. This vacation rental is cozy and quaint for a romantic weekend and is within walking distance of Temple Theatre, restaurants and bars. If you prefer a hotel stay, find all our hotel brands and partners here.
Third Stop
Dinner and Live Music at Smoke & Barrel
Delight in live music and drinks at this unique neighborhood pub. Dishes like the slow-cooked smoked pork or the tender beef brisket are made for sharing with that extra-special someone.
Day Two
First Stop
Lunch at La Dolce Vita Pizzeria
La Dolce Pizzeria in Sanford, NC, is a top choice for lunch thanks to its delicious pizza made with fresh ingredients and a variety of toppings to suit different tastes. The inviting atmosphere creates a comfortable setting for a casual meal with friends or family, while the friendly and attentive service enhances the dining experience. Additionally, the menu offers a range of options beyond pizza, such as salads, subs, and pasta, catering to diverse preferences.
Second Stop
Sanford Antique and Mural Trails
Third Stop
Afternoon Hike at San Lee Park, Golf or Clay Shooting
Save room for an adventure this afternoon. From scenic trails at San-Lee Park to championship golf at Carolina Trace to world-renown clay shooting at Deep River Sporting Clays. Enjoy quality time well spent in each other’s company.
Fourth Stop
Dinner at Davison’s Steaks
If you’re looking for romantic ambiance, Davison’s Steaks offers a candle-lit dinner along with wonderful entrée selections. Book a reservation for a meal to remember!
Day Three
First Stop
Lunch at La Dolce Vita Pizzeria
Wrap up a romantic getaway at this Italian-inspired restaurant. Formerly the federal building, this beautifully restored restaurant has hints of its prior life as a post office. The menu boasts everything from bountiful salads to classic lasagna. Be sure to also leave room for gelato or cappuccino!
Second Stop
Matinee at Temple Theatre
Linger in town a little longer and take in live, professional theatre in a historic space. Performances are held on Sundays at 2 pm. Check the theatre website for details and tickets. For a little more intimacy, grab seats in the balcony section and enjoy the view.
Fall Weekend with Friends
The fall season is the perfect time to pack your bags and head on over for an amazing escape complete with festivals, plays, delicious food, comfy accommodations, and more!
Day One
First Stop
Airbnb or Hotel Check-in
Settle into one of many Airbnbs in and around Sanford including a beautiful home built in 1910. Reserve the lower level to enjoy a wrap-around porch and a private entrance leading into a grand foyer, living room, and kitchen. Best of all, this gorgeous place is only four blocks from downtown shopping, restaurants, Temple Theatre, and more. If you prefer a hotel stay, find all our hotel brands and partners here.
Second Stop
Fall Festivals & Events
Kick off your weekend trip by visiting one of the many festivals and events Sanford has planned all season long. Come experience it all from music festivals to haunted pub crawls.
• Gross Farms Fall Activities – Sept. 13 – Nov. 2
• Carolina Indie Fest – Sept. 26-27
• Triple Crown Car Show – Oct. 4
• Downtown Sanford StreetFest – Oct. 11
• Boo and Brew Ghost Tours – Oct. 24-25; 30-31
Third Stop
Late Night at Local Joe’s
For over 20 years, this local pub and restaurant has offered locals and visitors a friendly spot to relax, grab a beer or cocktail, and chow down on delicious wings, burgers, and pizza.
Day Two
First Stop
Farmer’s Market
Shop fresh produce, preserves, and more from local farms. Come meet your local farmers and artisans and celebrate NC agriculture and craftsmanship at the market!
Second Stop
Dinner at Smoke & Barrel
At this unique neighborhood pub, folks crave the slow-cooked smoked pork, savor the beef brisket, and take delight in live music and drinks.
Third Stop
Temple Theatre
Catch a hilarious and heartwarming performance of The Addams Family at Temple Theatre. This musical comedy brings the iconic, spooky family to life with original songs, witty humor, and endless laughs. Follow Wednesday Addams as she surprises her parents with a love story they never saw coming. Keep an eye on the calendar for a full season of exciting shows and special performances.
Day Three
First Stop
Lunch at Ron’s Barn
Dig into smoky barbecue, fresh seafood, and classic Southern sides at this family-friendly favorite. With a casual vibe and hearty portions, it’s the perfect spot to refuel before your afternoon adventures.
Second Stop
Afternoon Corn Maze and Pumpkin Patch
Make your way over to Gross Farms for fall delights and wholesome family fun! Start by getting lost in the largest corn maze in all of Lee county, spanning a 10-acre field. Once you’re free of the maze, the farm’s pumpkin patch greets you with gorgeous gourds of all shapes and sizes. End a perfect evening with a hayride around the property, bundled up next to loved ones in the crisp fall air.
Holiday Weekend
There’s no place quite like Sanford for the holidays! Swing by for a weekend to enjoy everything from tree-lighting events and dazzling theatre shows to epic Christmas parades and holiday shopping.
Day One
First Stop
Check In at Hotel
Second Stop
Dinner at The Flame
Treat yourself to a delicious mean of prime rib, grilled salmon or homemade crab cakes. The Flame delights visitors with both an elegant dining room and a casual pub atmosphere.
Third Stop
Take in a Show
For over 20 years, this local pub and restaurant has offered locals and visitors a friendly spot to relax, grab a beer or cocktail, and chow down on delicious wings, burgers, and pizza.
• Christmas With The Embers – Nov. 22
• Sweet Potato Pie – Dec. 13
• A Christmas Carol – Dec. 1-18
Day Two
First Stop
Brunch at Mrs. Lacy’s
Seeing this Victorian home/restaurant snuggly decorated with seasonal greenery is sure to put you in the holiday spirit. If that doesn’t work, try the mimosas! Known year round for its delectable dishes, Mrs. Lacy’s Magnolia House pulls out all the sweet finishes to make this time of year simply delicious!
Second Stop
Holiday Events to Remember
With a beautifully decorated downtown and a bevy of nostalgic, holiday events, Sanford has all the charm of the North Pole with the milder winter weather of the American South.
• Downtown Holiday Open House – Nov. 6
• Artisan Fair Market – Nov. 12
• Overture to Christmas – Dec. 3
• Sunday with Santa Train and Tree Lighting – Dec. 4
• Sanford Christmas Parade – Dec. 5
• Broadway Christmas Parade – Dec. 10
Third Stop
Candlelight Tour at the Alston House
Step back in time this holiday season and experience the Alston House by candlelight. Guided tours take visitor through the downstairs rooms, exploring 18th-century Christmas traditions. After the tour, enjoy a warm cup of cider and a ginger care to-go.
Day Three
First Stop
Lunch at Ron’s Barn
Savor comfort food at its finest! Ron’s Barn is known to have some of the best fried chicken in all of Sanford. You can also get all the fixins for the perfect Sunday dinner. Be sure to save room for pie and banana pudding!
Second Stop
Take Home a Tree
Looking for the perfect holiday tree? Head on over to The Christmas Tree Path or Griffin’s Evergreens to choose and cut your own. What could be a better souvenir than that?
Spring Events Itinerary
Spring is in the air, and there’s no better time to visit Sanford, NC! From lively festivals and outdoor adventures to beautiful blooms and seasonal flavors, this itinerary has everything you need for the perfect spring getaway.
Day One
First Stop
Airbnb or Hotel Check-in
Settle into one of many Airbnbs in and around Sanford including a beautiful home built in 1910. Reserve the lower level to enjoy a wrap-around porch and a private entrance leading into a grand foyer, living room, and kitchen. Best of all, this gorgeous place is only four blocks from downtown shopping, restaurants, Temple Theatre, and more. If you prefer a hotel stay, find all our hotel brands and partners here.
Second Stop
Spring Festivals & Events
Kick off your weekend trip by visiting one of the many festivals and events Sanford has planned all season long. Come experience it all from live music to downtown festivals.
• Farmer’s Market Opens – April 5
• Downtown Alive! Concerts – April 14; May 15
• Broadway Our Way – April 19
• Southern Side x Side – April 24-27
• Strawberry Jammin’ – May 10
• Ole Mill Crank Up – May 17-18
• Carolina Indie Fest – May 23-24
Third Stop
Late Night at Local Joe’s
For over 20 years, this local pub and restaurant has offered locals and visitors a friendly spot to relax, grab a beer or cocktail, and chow down on delicious wings, burgers, and pizza.
Day Two
First Stop
Farmer’s Market
Shop fresh produce, preserves, and more from local farms. Come meet your local farmers and artisans and celebrate NC agriculture and craftsmanship at the market!
Second Stop
Dinner at Smoke & Barrel
At this unique neighborhood pub, folks crave the slow-cooked smoked pork, savor the beef brisket, and take delight in live music and drinks.
Third Stop
Temple Theatre
Catch an amazing show like Ring of Fire at Temple Theatre. The songbook of Johnny Cash comes to life in this musical about love and faith, struggle and success, and the healing power of home and family. More than two dozen classic hits— “I Walk The Line,” “A Boy Named Sue,” “Folsom Prison Blues,” and the title tune — performed by a multi-talented cast, paints a musical portrait of The Man in Black that promises to be a crowd-pleasing salute to a unique musical legend!
Day Three
First Stop
Lunch at Buttermilk Biscuit Bar
Established chef Gregg Ham delivers a virtual kitchen concept, offering a variety of scratch-made biscuits, sides, coffee, mimosas and more. Or try Fairview Dairy Bar for a diner experience.
Second Stop
Hike, Bike, or Paddle
Spend the afternoon enjoying the great outdoors! Paddle along the Deep River, hike scenic nature trails, or unwind in one of Sanford’s many parks. Whether you’re seeking adventure or a peaceful escape, there are endless places to explore.
Strawberry Jammin’ Weekend
Get ready for a berry sweet weekend in Sanford, NC! With delicious strawberry treats, live music, local shopping, and farm-fresh fun, the Strawberry Jammin’ Festival is the perfect way to soak up the season.
Day One, Friday, May 9
First Stop
Airbnb or Hotel Check-in
Settle in for a fun-filled weekend by checking into one of three charming Airbnbs in downtown Sanford, each offering a unique stay just steps from the action. Prefer a hotel? There are plenty of great area hotels to choose from, as well as glamping options for those looking for a more adventurous stay.
Second Stop
Food & Drinks in Downtown Sanford
Begin your weekend with a delicious meal at one of Sanford’s standout restaurants. Be sure to make reservations in advance:
• Smoke & Barrel – Slow-smoked barbecue, brisket, and craft cocktails.
• La Dolce Vita Pizzeria – Gourmet pizzas and Italian-inspired dishes.
• The Flame Steakhouse – An upscale dining experience with hand-cut steaks.
• Explore the Taco Trail – Taste your way through some of the best tacos in town, featuring a variety of authentic flavors at multiple local spots!
Third Stop
Temple Theatre Show
Celebrate 100 years of Temple Theatre with a live performance at this historic venue. Experience an incredible show in one of Sanford’s most beloved theaters. Book your tickets here before they sell out!
Day Two, Saturday, May 10
8:30am - 12:00pm
Farmer’s Market
Start your morning at the Sanford Farmer’s Market, where strawberries take center stage! Browse fresh, locally grown berries from featured strawberry vendors, watch recipe demonstrations showcasing creative ways to enjoy this seasonal favorite, and visit the Master Gardener booth for expert gardening tips. Kids will love the interactive children’s activities, while the Strawberry Blender whips up fresh, delicious strawberry smoothies on-site. As you explore the market, enjoy a live bluegrass jam to soundtrack to your morning.
10:00am - 10:00pm
Strawberry Food and Shopping Stroll
Take your taste buds on a tour of Downtown Sanford with special strawberry-themed dishes, cocktails, and mocktails at 14 local restaurants and breweries. Pop into downtown shops for strawberry-inspired merchandise, “shop & sip” deals, and unique pop-up vendors.
Throughout Festival
Strawberry Sips Refillable Tea Cup
Enjoy unlimited sweet tea and flavored teas throughout the festival with a Strawberry Sips Cup, available for preorder here.
1:00pm - 3:00pm
Downtown Alive! Concert
Head over to Steele Street for an afternoon featuring live music from the Carolina Soul Band. Enjoy great food from local trucks, grab a drink from beer vendors, and soak up the lively downtown atmosphere. With a fun zone for all ages, it’s the perfect way to spend the afternoon!
3:00pm - 5:00pm
DJ Party at Charlie Watson Lane
The celebration continues with a DJ party at Charlie Watson Lane! Get ready to dance, vibe with the crowd, and enjoy a high-energy mix of music in the heart of downtown. Whether you’re keeping the festival fun going or just stopping by for a quick groove, this lively set will have you moving!
Day Three, Sunday, May 11
First Stop
Brunch at Fairview Dairy Bar
Wrap up your weekend with a hearty brunch at Fairview Dairy Bar, a local favorite since 1954. From fluffy pancakes to classic country breakfasts, this nostalgic diner serves up comforting favorites with a side of small-town charm.
Second Stop
Farm Fun & Strawberry Picking
Sanford is home to more you-pick farms than anywhere else in North Carolina, making it the perfect place to embrace farm life before heading home. Visit Gross Farms or Buchanan Farms to pick your own fresh strawberries or enjoy family friendly farm activities.