With Charlotte to the west, Raleigh just north, and Fayetteville to the east, Southern Pines could do a lot worse for neighbors. Its proximity to larger cities makes Southern Pines an easy reprieve for tired city dwellers who first escaped to Southern Pines to shape the American golf community in the late-1800s. Southern Pines and Pinehurst remain havens to the golfing community, but residents of Southern Pines get to enjoy much more than lush greens and well-built courses.

In addition to fostering the growth of modern day golf, Southern Pines also has a history of supporting the arts, a fact that's on display at the statuesque Weymouth Center for the Arts. A grand estate beautifully preserved, the Weymouth Center's missions span across conservation, art, music, and literature. And at the nearby Campbell House, expansive gardens and a mix of local, regional, and national art remains on display year-round at the historic residence.

Beyond art, make time to escape to the trails winding through Weymouth Woods-Sandhills Nature Preserve, trying to spot a protected Red-Cockaded Woodpecker if you can, and stop at the Black Rock Winery to sample local vintages made from grapes grown right in Moore County. While you're out, don't let concerns for your home cloud your day. Invest in an ADT monitored security system early so you're free to make Southern Pines feel like home.