Winter Sips And Strolls in Sanford, NC

One of the many amazing things about Sanford, NC is its mild winters. We’re just far enough south to enjoy the occasional chilly day without all the heavy snow. This means outside adventures like exploring Sanford’s Mural Art Trail still have a place on your travel itinerary. Especially, when they’re perfectly paired with warm and cozy cups of coffee.

Cinnamon Hazlenut Latte from Kathy’s Java Express

For a quick pick-me-up, Kathy’s Java Express is the place to go. This casual coffee shop/restaurant is known for outstanding coffee, awesome food and warm friendly service. Order up the Cinnamon Hazlenut Latte and stroll over to see trail murals “Off to War” WWII War Memorial, Piedmont Blues and Caterpillar and Wings. Close by, you’ll also find Sanford’s Antique Mall where you can shop 18,000 sq. ft. of showroom for wonderful treasures.

La Dolce Vita Pizzeria Cappuccino

Sure, the pizza at La Dolce Vita is amazing, but did you know they whip up a mean cappuccino as well? Grab yours in a to-go cup to sip while you marvel at another mural trail stop, Herb Thomas and the Fabulous Hudson Hornet. This colorful work of art pays homage to one of NASCAR’s 50 Greatest Drivers. If you need a minute or two to warm up, grab a table and some dessert at La Dolce Vita. We highly recommend the tiramisu. If you’re in the mood to go antiquing (and let’s be real, who isn’t?), stop off at The Cotton Lily for vintage wares, local crafts and sourced tea and accessories. Right across the street is A Few Simple Things, another fabulous shopping option for art/picture frames, crafts and more.

French Vanilla Cappuccino from Sandra’s Bakery

Where there are delicious baked goods, there’s coffee to match. Sandra’s Bakery serves up fresh donuts, mini donuts and other pastries as well as their French Vanilla cappuccino. Warm milk, bold espresso, vanilla flavoring, and a dollop of foam make this drink complete. Best of all, donuts and the coffee travel well and make popping over to the Silent Wings mural or into Redoux Home for some shopping a brisk winter breeze!

Fairview Dairy Bar’s Regular Cup of Joe

When it comes down to it, a regular cup of drip coffee just can’t be beat. Luckily, the OG java over at Fairview Dairy Bar delivers simple bliss in a diner-like setting. Stop in to satisfy your caffeine craving before taking in the creativity and history of the Tobacco Mural. Be sure to snap pictures with the 3-D mule and tobacco plants as well.

Stroll a bit further to browse Vineland and Hickory, an antique furniture showroom and design studio specializing in repurposed furniture. You’ll also find a great selections of antiques and home décor as well!

Tea Party Tea from Ms. Lacy’s Magnolia House

Enjoy a spot of tea along with a light lunch and some delicious desserts at Ms. Lacy’s Magnolia House Tea Room. This lovely Victorian home turned restaurant is famous for its homemade recipes and lovely atmosphere no matter the weather. Grab a seat in the interior dining room, or on the wraparound porch if it’s not too chilly out and cozy up to a great selection of hot teas.

Once sufficiently warm and full, set out to find one of the Sanford’s latest murals which pays homage to Dr. Mary Mcleod. It’s truly awe-inspiring! On the antique tip, swing by Braston-Gail Antiques. This hodge-podge of store with furniture, china, décor and more is sure to hold a hidden gem or two that you’ll want to take home.

Coffee to Go from Family Grounds

Here’s another no-frills entry in the coffee game that’s well rounded and grounded. Family Grounds pours it up hot and fresh while also serving delicious bagels, muffins, and teas!

Order a coffee to go, and make your way over to the J.D. McDuffie mural. Marvel at the bright colors of this trail stop – a tribute to another NASCAR legend.

Toasted Marshmallow Coffee from Brick City Boba

Far be it for us to suggest hitting up a Boba tea spot for coffee on the daily. One sip of their toasted marshmallow coffee however, and you’ll understand why we added Brick City Boba to our list. If you’re not a coffee drinker, then the teas as well as the hot chocolate will certainly do the trick. Right next door is Southern Kreations Antique Boutique, another swell stop for antique-lovers. You can also pair your dreamy hot drink from Brick City with a selfie in front of the DREAM mural.

The Café Italiano at Valenti’s 

If you like coffee with an added kick, make a beeline to Valenti’s Italian Restaurant and Pizzeria. Their Café Italiano pairs Franglico and Tuaco liqueurs with Brooklyn House coffee, brown sugar, fresh whipped cream and chocolate shavings. It’s part of a trio of adult coffee beverages that’s sure to keep you nice and toasty. While in Jonesboro, be sure to check out Jonesboro Cornet Band — another historical mural that highlights the area’s musical roots.

Other Winter Delights

Antiques, art and coffee are just the tip of the iceberg that is a winter trip to Sanford. Head on over to catch amazing shows at the Temple Theatre including A Christmas Story and ‘Til Beth Do Us Part. In addition, the Dennis A. Wicker Civic Center will also host the third annual Taylor Phillips HITS Lee County with Friends Benefit Concert on Dec. 10. For more great winter fun, check out our events calendar and we’ll see you in Sanford.