Passing through Moore County Airport? A layover in Pinehurst-Southern Pines is more doable than you might think. The city is only about 45 minutes from the airport, and with a bit of planning you can stretch your legs, grab a real meal, and see something new before your next flight.
Important Details Before You Go
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at SOP:
First, verify that you can enter United States — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the Taxi/Ride-share takes about 45 minutes into Pinehurst-Southern Pines, so add that up for the round trip plus security buffer. Third, have your payment sorted — USD is the currency here. You’re in USD territory, so no currency conversion needed.
Getting to Pinehurst-Southern Pines from the Airport
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Taxi/Ride-share | ~45 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~65 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the Taxi/Ride-share is usually the way to go. It’s predictable, which matters when you have a flight to catch. Taxis can be faster in ideal conditions but slower when traffic builds up.
What to Budget for Your Pinehurst-Southern Pines Side Trip
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Pinehurst-Southern Pines, budget roughly $40 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $20 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $10 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
Cards are increasingly accepted in Pinehurst-Southern Pines, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Things to Do During Your Layover
For a layover visit to Pinehurst-Southern Pines, we’d suggest The Village of Pinehurst and Downtown Southern Pines. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Pinehurst-Southern Pines. No tickets or reservations needed — just explore at your own pace.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside SOP, you can spend time at Signature Flight Support Lounge or try Aircraft Spotting at SOP. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Food Worth Trying
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Pinehurst-Southern Pines: The Pik-N-Pig BBQ and The Sly Fox Gastropub. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Signature Flight Support Refreshments or SOP Airport Vending Machines. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Luggage Storage Options
Specific locker facilities at SOP aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Pinehurst-Southern Pines itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and SOP is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Pinehurst-Southern Pines and want data on the go, pick up a local SIM from a shop in the arrivals hall or download an eSIM before you land. Airalo and Holafly are popular options that let you set up data access before you even touch down.
Sleep & Lounge Options at SOP
Long overnight layover? Your options at SOP include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in United States also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Pinehurst-Southern Pines is a chance to see a slice of somewhere new — even if it’s just for a few hours. Plan your time, keep an eye on the clock, and don’t forget to enjoy the detour. Some of the best travel memories come from the unplanned ones.
Safe travels, and enjoy Pinehurst-Southern Pines.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.