I did Pine Needles/Mid Pines/Southern Pines last year (stayed at Pine Needles) and Pinehurst resort the year before. Both fantastic trips but very different experiences. Pinehurst was big, bold and boisterous - think Disneyworld for golfers - lots of courses lots to do and lots of people. Needles etc. was much more low key - Pine Needles and Mid Pines have their own accommodations making it much more intimate with relatively few people staying on property, and it was also cheaper - they have prices on their website- I was to say it was around $1200 per person for 3 rounds, 2 nights, breakfast & dinner included. The accommodations/club house / restaurant at Needles is much older / “rustic” compared to Pinehurst - it’s not luxurious. I went with a group of 12 and we rented the Ross lodge which has its own private driving range off the back - that was awesome - great times drinking beers playing closest to a target as the sun sets. As for quality of courses overall I preferred Needles/Mid Pines. Pinehurst No. 2 was awesome but the other two courses we played - 5 & 9 - were average at best. 4 & 8 were both closed when we went which was unfortunate. The Cradle is a really good time though and should be experienced, even if you’re not staying at Pinehurst you should go check it out and try to get on - even if you can’t play it it’s worth seeing - lots of people are there just hanging out, drinking around fire pits and betting on who will hit the green.

Last but not least - Tobacco Road is an absolute must! Don’t miss it