Museums in the Sandhills

Discover the legacy of America’s paratroopers at the 82nd Airborne Division War Memorial Museum in Fayetteville, NC. Explore exhibits spanning from World War I to today, view artifacts and immersive displays, and step outside to see aircraft and vehicles up close at the Airborne Airpark. It’s a must-visit for history lovers and a tribute to the bravery of the “All American” Division.

Visit the Bryant House and McLendon Cabin near Carthage to step back into Moore County’s early days. The 1760 McLendon Cabin, the county’s oldest standing structure, sits beside the 1820 Bryant House, a farmhouse reflecting the region’s growth and prosperity. Together, they offer a fascinating glimpse into pioneer life and local history.

Founded in 1981, the Carolinas Golf Hall of Fame recognizes individuals who have contributed to the game of golf and have a connection to the Carolinas. The plaques commemorating all of the inductees are housed in the convention hall of the Carolina Hotel of Pinehurst Resorts. The Carolinas Golf Hall of Fame is under the care of the Carolinas Golf Association.

Discover the story of Carthage at the Carthage Museum, where local history comes alive through artifacts, photographs, and exhibits. Learn about the town’s days as a buggy-manufacturing hub, explore its agricultural and community heritage, and connect with the traditions that shaped Moore County.

Discovery Place Kids in Rockingham is a hands-on children’s museum where kids learn through play. Interactive exhibits and imaginative activities inspire creativity, curiosity, and discovery for families with young children.

Malcolm Blue Farm in Aberdeen is a 1825 farmhouse and museum that showcases early Scottish settler life in the Sandhills. Visitors can explore the historic home, outbuildings, and exhibits that highlight the region’s agricultural and cultural heritage.

Dedicated to preserving and perpetuating a 200 year-old pottery tradition, staff at the museum strive to educate new generations about the history and beauty of the pottery made in and around Seagrove, North Carolina.

The Rankin Museum of American Heritage in Ellerbe, NC, highlights local history, natural history, and American cultural heritage. Exhibits range from Native American artifacts and early settlement life to wildlife displays and medical history, offering something for every visitor.

The Sandhills Woman’s Exchange in Pinehurst is a historic cabin and gift shop showcasing local crafts, handmade goods, and regional treasures. A community tradition since 1922, it’s a charming spot to shop, enjoy homemade treats, and experience the spirit of the Sandhills.

The Shaw House in Southern Pines is an 1820s homestead and museum that preserves the history of early Scottish settlers in the Sandhills. Filled with period furnishings and surrounded by historic outbuildings, it offers visitors a glimpse into life in 19th-century Moore County.

The Welcome Center hosts a historic photo display of Southern Pines and offers maps, brochures and other publications outlining many of the cultural, recreational, and business offerings available in this unique town.

The Taxidermy Hall of Fame and Creation Museum in Southern Pines is a quirky, one-of-a-kind attraction featuring an extensive collection of mounted animals, oddities, and artifacts alongside exhibits reflecting creationist perspectives. It’s a unique stop that blends curiosity, history, and conversation.

The World Golf Hall of Fame in Pinehurst celebrates the legends of the game with historic artifacts, interactive exhibits, and a new Hall of Fame locker room experience. Located at Golf House Pinehurst, it offers fans a chance to connect with golf’s greatest moments and players.

The Tufts Archives in Pinehurst preserves the history of Pinehurst Resort and the Sandhills, featuring rare photos, maps, documents, and artifacts—including treasures from famed golf course designer Donald Ross. It’s a must-visit for golf lovers and history enthusiasts alike.

Town Creek Indian Mound in Mount Gilead, NC, is a preserved archaeological site that interprets the history and culture of the Pee Dee people who lived there over 1,000 years ago. Visitors can explore the reconstructed mound, village structures, and a museum with artifacts.

In ceremonies held at Weymouth Center May 18, 1996, fifteen North Carolinians were inducted into the North Carolina Literary Hall of Fame, honoring their contributions to the rich literary heritage of the state. The first inductees included James Boyd, Paul Green, Bernice Kelly Harris, O. Henry, and Thomas Wolfe, among other notable North Carolina authors.