Enjoy some fresh air while exploring 177+ lush acres of San-Lee Park. Hike through the park’s many winding paths or hit the trails with your mountain bike. Pack some PB&J’s to enjoy a picnic or fish in one of San-Lee Park’s well-stocked lakes. If you’re a birdwatcher, be on the lookout for songbirds such as the Great Crested Flycatcher and Hooded Warbler. (San-Lee is featured on the North Carolina Birding Trail list.) You’ll also want to check out the paddle boat rides available seasonally.

Get ready for golf, golf, and more golf! With four award-winning public golf courses in the area, Sanford is a go-to destination to swing a club. Voted one of the top golf courses in the world, Tobacco Road Golf Course is an extreme course with skill-challenging greens that aren’t the typical shape or size. For a more leisurely round of golf, Carolina Trace Golf Course prides itself on being playable for golfers of any skill level. Quail Ridge Golf Course offers a pleasant, affordable course as well as a full grill, so families can spend the day on the links. Rounding out the list is the Sanford Municipal Golf Course, which offers beautiful views of blooming azaleas, pine trees, and Buffalo Creek.

Experiencing all there is to do in Sanford is bound to make you hungry. Stop by one of Sanford’s iconic eateries or drink spots to satisfy your appetite and quench your thirst. Local favorites like Fairview Dairy Bar and Mrs. Lacy’s Magnolia House are perfect for lunch. For dinner, snag a table at restaurants like The Flame Steakhouse or La Dolce Vita Pizzeria. Local Joe’s, Hugger Mugger Brewing Company, Camelback Brewing Company and Wild Dogs Brewing Company are some beloved establishments to grab a drink. Or satisfy your sweet tooth at Yarborough’s Homemade Ice Cream. On the whole, there’s no chance you’ll leave Sanford with an empty stomach.

As you wind your way through the city, be sure to take in Sanford’s popular Mural Art Trail. These larger-than-life works of art capture the city’s rich history and imagination, including the Tobacco Mural celebrating Sanford’s rich agricultural roots and the “Off to War” WWII Mural honoring Lee County veterans. Other more whimsical murals capture the spirit and creativity of the area, such as the Dream Mural and the Fairview Dairy Mural — the first of its kind in North Carolina, featuring 3-D cows. This memorable must-see will certainly leave you with some “Instagrammable” photos to share with friends and family.