The best things to do in Sanford

“Ole Gilliam Mill Park is a lovingly handmade slice of local history, built on weekends by Worth Pickard and friends. Wander the grounds, peek at the pottery setups, and keep an eye out for their annual Crank-Up festival. Perfect for a slow afternoon that still feels memorable.”

From the Sanford newsletter, August 3, 2026

“Falls Village Golf Club is a locally loved 18-hole championship course carved through Carolina pines just outside RTP, with rolling terrain, real elevation changes, and 48 strategically placed bunkers. Five sets of tees, Champion bermudagrass greens, and a friendly vibe make it perfect for a fun, thoughtful round.”

From the Durham newsletter, August 4, 2026

“Because your couch can wait. The Rialto is Raleigh’s enduring neighborhood theater curating great movies, live music, and the kind of small-town-within-the-city vibe that makes Tuesday feel like an event. Grab a friend, pick a flick, let the popcorn be your personality for the night.”

From the Apex newsletter, August 6, 2026

“From the massive Thunder Bay wave pool to chill Lazy River laps and thrill rides like Bombs Away and Daredevil Drop, Wet 'n Wild Emerald Pointe Water Park nails the mid-week reset. 40+ attractions, family vibes, and DJ-fueled summer events make it feel like a mini-vacation right here in Greensboro.”

From the Greensboro newsletter, August 5, 2026

“Round up the crew and hit ParTee Shack - Raleigh for mini golf reimagined on two over-the-top courses, plus an obstacle-packed VR laser tag arena, duckpin bowling with epic light shows, and an arcade. Easy weeknight reset or rainy-day saver, with food and drinks so you can actually linger.”

From the Goldsboro newsletter, August 7, 2026

“The Club at 12 Oaks blends an award-winning golf course fit for the pros with tennis and pickleball, F45-fueled workouts, a splash-worthy pool pavilion, and chef-driven socials, so you can swing, sweat, splash, then stick around for the food and neighborly vibes.”

From the Garner newsletter, August 5, 2026

“Two championship layouts at The Country Club of Whispering Pines await, the River Course and the Pines Course, 36 holes that play friendly or feisty depending on the day. Grab a lesson or set up an outing, then enjoy that pure Sandhills vibe locals brag about.”

From the Sanford newsletter, August 6, 2026

“Winding through majestic pines and rolling terrain, Carolina Lakes Golf Club delivers a fun, fair Sandhills golf vibe with excellent conditions. When your short game needs truth serum, this daily-fee spot offers instruction and junior programs, so it's an easy call for a quick escape from Fayetteville this week.”

“Whether you’re grooving the swing or just escaping the inbox, The Woods Golf Club delivers friendly Sandhills golf on an Ellis Maples design with 18 Champion Bermuda ultradwarf greens, then Filly & Colt’s handles the victory lap with pizza, wings, and breakfast. Sneak in a round this week.”

“Chain of indoor trampoline parks featuring freestyle bouncing, dodgeball, fitness programs & more.”

“Golfers appreciate the well-maintained greens and reasonable price at this municipal course.”

“Golf club featuring a course with a driving range, practice greens, and pro shop.”

“Relaxed country club with a golf course, tennis courts, a pool and a dining room.”

“Fun mini water park with sprinklers and a bucket that's popular for its playground and clean setting.”

“Trampoline center featuring a foam pit, dodgeball court and ninja-style obstacle courses.”

“Family amusement center with several attractions, including mini-golf, go-karts & a roller rink.”

“Formal place for hosting weddings as well as parties such as birthday gatherings.”

“Indoor and outdoor facility with 25-yard lap pools and a playground.”

“Country club featuring a remodeled clubhouse, a golf course, a pool and tennis courts.”

“Community recreation center with an indoor track, fitness center, and basketball court, plus classes.”

“Chain of indoor trampoline parks featuring freestyle bouncing, dodgeball, fitness programs & more.”

“Public golf course featuring East and West courses, a driving range, and an instructor.”

“Golf club centered around a Nicklaus-designed course, along with a clubhouse, pool and tennis.”

“Go-karts, laser tag, batting cages, bumper boats, flight simulators, mini-golf, arcade games & more.”

“Casual neighborhood movie theater with reclining seats.”

“Cinema offering feature films in 6 auditoriums & beer & wine at the concession stand.”

“Tom Kite–designed golf course with a driving range, in a wooded, rolling setting.”

“Wildlife refuge & agricultural-history site centered around an 18th-century water-powered gristmill.”

“Designed by Arnold Palmer, this 18-hole public course offers a clubhouse restaurant.”

“Large-scale indoor trampoline center hosting open jump, fitness classes, dodgeball & parties.”

“Trampoline park, laser tag and go-kart spot for all ages.”

“Large venue for weddings with elegant spaces, also offering an 18-hole golf course, an indoor and outdoor tennis center and an outdoor pool.”

“Independent stadium-style cineplex offering feature & art films, plus food, beer & wine.”

“Golf club featuring practice facilities, a pro shop, and a course that includes varied terrain.”

“Elegant hotel set on 300 acres offering luxe quarters, a golf course & multiple dining options.”

“High-end private golf course since 1910 with a Southern style clubhouse, pool & tennis courts.”

“Relaxed indoor playground featuring kid-friendly activities, exhibits and party facilities, plus a cafe.”

“Public golf course offering a swimming pool, event venue, and banquet hall.”

“Family-run attraction featuring three 18-hole indoor mini golf courses alongside arcade games and a snack bar.”

“Private golf course and tennis club offering facilities for weddings and other events, plus food.”

“Established in 1986, this golf course features a variety of tee options and Champion Bermuda Grass greens.”

“First-run movie theater chain featuring plush seating, all-digital presentations & 3D screenings.”

“Aquatic complex chain with additional land attractions including mini-golf, laser tag & go-karts.”

“Private country club offering golf, swimming, tennis, and dining, plus a ballroom.”

“Public, 18-hole golf course, with a pro shop and friendly staff, featuring open, scenic fairways.”

“Warehouse-style trampoline park with bright murals hosts family days, open jumps & fitness programs.”

“Private club featuring 2 championship-golf courses with lake views, plus a pool and tennis courts.”

“Members-only country club with a private golf course, plus a ballroom and other event venues.”

“Modern entertainment venue offering interactive golf games, American eats, cocktails & draft brews.”

“Established in 1988, this country club features a private golf course, updated fitness center, and tennis courts.”