Small-Town Shopping Charm

Small Town Shopping in Southern Pines & Aberdeen, NC

By Hayley Hutson

You may have discovered Moore County through Pinehurst’s legendary golf courses, but the neighboring towns of Southern Pines and Aberdeen offer a different kind of charm—one rooted in an inviting community feel, walkable downtowns, and a thriving local business scene.

If you love shopping small and want to experience the heart of Moore County beyond the fairways, here are some of the must-visit stops to check out on your next visit.

Where to Shop in Aberdeen – For the Home

Many of Aberdeen’s most beloved gems can be found on Main Street, making it easy to lose yourself in a sea of handcrafted goods and unique gifts. Head to Eloise Trading Company to find trendy and timeless home decor and furnishings in a Southern-chic space. If you love all things girly and adorable, a trip to Lily Rose Boutique is a must. Whether you’re hunting for the perfect housewarming gift or looking to spruce up your own home, there’s plenty to love inside this boutique-meets-market.

Just a few minutes down the road, Design Market awaits with a goldmine of vintage treasures and contemporary pieces. As Moore County’s largest consignment warehouse, the sprawling space is a haven for antique lovers.

Caption: Eloise Trading Company

For Gifts & Unique Finds

No Aberdeen shopping trip would be complete without stopping by Made & Found, an eclectic market where more than 100 local artisans sell everything from stylish clothing and accessories to hand-poured candles and artwork. If you’re shopping for a one-of-a-kind gift you won’t see anywhere else, that’s a great place to start.

Bride of the Pines features a bespoke collection of wedding gowns and bridal accessories. It’s owned by a celebrated wedding photographer, so every dress is selected with an expert’s eye for beauty and detail. As Moore County’s only veteran-owned military surplus store, The Bunker is easily one of the most unique shops in Aberdeen. Perfect for history buffs looking for memorabilia that tells a story, the store sells gear and antiques dating back to World War I.

Where to Eat & Drink in Aberdeen – For Coffee & Treats

Before you take on Aberdeen’s shopping scene, you’ll need some fuel. The aptly-named High Octane is housed in a repurposed gas station, with a coffee menu so long it comes in a hardcover book. Pair your latte with a scone or muffin and embrace the industrial, vintage-inspired charm.

For an expansive selection of freshly baked bread and pastries, The Bakehouse is not to be missed. The European-style bakery is sixth-generation family-owned, with Austrian and Spanish roots infused into every bite. It’s the kind of spot where you won’t be able to choose just one dessert, so go ahead and treat yourself.

Caption: High Octane, Aberdeen

For Casual Bites & Comfort Food

Mason’s is a popular choice among Aberdeen brunch-goers, and it’s not hard to see why. The trendy yet laid-back eatery serves a drool-worthy menu of Southern classics with a modern twist, like the fan-favorite Train Wreck—made with fried chicken and a scratch-made biscuit. At Workshop Tavern, it’s all about comfort food and craft cocktails. The neighborhood tavern has an inviting feel and a stacked lineup of indulgent dishes, like the skillet BBQ mac and cheese.

Looking for the best pupusas and tamales in town? Aberdeen probably isn’t a place that comes to mind when you think “authentic Guatemalan cuisine,” but that’s exactly what you’ll find at El Chapin. The space is small and simplistic, but the sensational flavors speak for themselves. If you’re craving wood-fired pizza, you’ll love the perfectly charred Neapolitan slices at Pizzeria Grazia. Pro tip: Stop by on Tuesday for the $12 pizza special.

For Drinks & Brews

The veteran-owned Railhouse Brewery is Moore County’s oldest craft brewery, with rustic vibes and a warm, relaxed atmosphere. Their beer lineup has everything from crisp ales to hoppy IPAs, and the fried cheese curds are not to be missed.

Local Shopping in Southern Pines – For Local & Handmade Goods

Every great Southern Pines shopping adventure starts in the historic district. Broad Street is lined with a vibrant mix of trendy boutiques and charming shops, perfect for leisurely strolls with a latte in hand. Grab your coffee at Swank Coffee Shoppe, and stick around to peruse handcrafted goods by local artisans in their market. Against the Grain is a great spot to explore for North Carolina-themed gifts, handmade jewelry, and home decor.

Looking to support military families? Named after the cultural icon, R. Riveter sells American-made leather handbags and stylish accessories made by military spouses. For sustainable household products and eco-friendly gifts, stop by Willabee Market—Moore County’s first zero-waste market. They offer a wide selection of refillable liquids and dry goods, along with raw milk and honey from local farms.

Caption: Railhouse Brewery

For Books, Toys, & Specialty Items

The Country Bookshop is a local favorite in downtown Southern Pines for its handpicked reads and weekly story times. Their selection includes everything from modern bestsellers and classics to books by local authors. Shopping for children? The Little Toy Shop has been putting big smiles on tiny faces for nearly three decades with its nostalgic, feel-good energy and thoughtfully curated collection of toys and games.

Casino Guitars is a treasure trove for musicians and collectors alike, with rows of high-quality instruments both new and old. If you’re shopping for your next fishing or camping trip, River Jack is the go-to spot. Housed in a historic building on Broad Street, the rustic shop sells an expansive array of high-end outdoor apparel, accessories, and adventure gear. Pace Yourself Run Co. is the trusted pick for runners and nature buffs in need of a reliable pair of shoes.

Caption: Downtown Southern Pines, NC

Drinks & Dining in Southern Pines – For Coffee & Sweets

Maisonette is a Parisian-style café with specialty coffee and teas infused with house made syrups, alongside a menu of flaky pastries, sausage rolls, and quiches. Inspired by Europe’s café culture, it’s an ideal spot to start the day. For brunch, Betsy’s Crepes is an easy choice. The light and airy eatery is a staple in the downtown Southern Pines dining scene, with an eclectic menu of sweet and savory crepes.

Craving an old-fashioned float with a side of nostalgia? The Ice Cream Parlor has been serving its homemade ice cream for nearly fifty years, with both classic flavors and more unique ones like the fan-favorite lavender and honey.

For Cozy Drinks

Set in a historic theater that’s been lovingly reimagined, Cork blends old-world charm with a modern wine bar feel. The brick walls and exposed ceilings create a rustic-chic ambiance, making it an inviting spot to unwind with a glass of pinot.

Sante has quickly become one of the best cafes in Southern Pines to grab coffee and pastries by day and craft cocktails by night. They regularly host live music and events like charcuterie workshops and supper club nights. Southern Pines Growler Co. spotlights some of North Carolina’s best local brews, along with top-rated beers from around the world.

Caption: Southern Pines Growler Co.

For Memorable Meals

With so many Southern Pines restaurants to choose from, deciding where to snag a table can be tough. For chef-driven American classics, Chapman’s is hard to beat. The menu features everything from gourmet burgers and fresh salads to their signature cajun crawfish fries. Ashten’s is a farm-to-table gem with a rotating menu of refined eats and a warm, intimate atmosphere. It’s a popular spot for special occasions and date nights, with a comfortable patio for al fresco dining.

Looking for more ways to enjoy the Sandhills? Check out The Perfect Southern Pines Weekend Getaway: A Relaxation Itinerary!

Other Blogs

Related

Cork

Welcome to Cork - An Elevated Adult Cocktail and Southern Bar Experience

A North Carolina Cocktail and Beverage Bar Serving Community Energy, Craft Cocktails, Wine, Beer, Local Brews and Bourbon Located in an Incredible Reimagined Historic Theatre Building and Hidden Patio Outdoor Seating Seasonally - Stroller and Pet-Friendly