Dossenbach’s Finer Furniture

Eighty years in business is no small thing, and Dossenbach’s Finer Furniture has earned every one of them. This longtime family-owned Sanford staple carries a broad selection of home furnishings and mattresses from well-known brands including Ashley, Tempur-Pedic, Sealy, Catnapper, Rowe, Vaughan-Bassett, and more, with delivery available across most of central North Carolina. Whether you’re furnishing a new space or just ready for an upgrade, Dossenbach’s brings the kind of selection and staying power that only comes with eight decades of doing things right.

Vintage Vanity Salon

Vintage Vanity Salon in Sanford is not your typical hair salon. Owner-operated and styled as a throwback to the 1950s home salon experience, personalized consultation and genuine attention to the client take center stage here. The vibe is nostalgic, but the services are anything but dated, covering cuts and styles for men, women, and kids, fashion colors, and even fairy hair (hair tinsel) for a little extra sparkle. If you’ve ever left a salon feeling like you were just processed and sent on your way, Vintage Vanity is a refreshing change of pace.

Steve Jones Mural

With NFL Opening Day kicking off the 2026 season on September 9th, there’s no better time to visit one of Downtown Sanford’s most impressive murals. The mural at 114 N. Steele Street honors local legend Steve Jones, a standout at Sanford Central High School who helped the team claim three consecutive 3-A state championships in 1966, 1967, and 1968, went on to become an All-American at Duke University, earned ACC Player of the Year honors in 1972, and later played for the St. Louis Cardinals. Jones was inducted into the Duke University Hall of Fame and the North Carolina Sports Hall of Fame, and artist Chris Dalton captured the full scope of that legacy right here in the heart of downtown.

Shops of Steele Street

If shopping is your sport, Shops of Steele Street is your arena. Nearly ten small shops clustered under one roof make this Downtown Sanford destination an emporium worth spending an afternoon in. Women’s clothing, jewelry, handbags, accessories, home décor, books, fine soaps, stationery, and more are all within easy reach, whether you’re hunting for the perfect gift or just seeing what catches your eye. New finds are always waiting, which makes it just as good a destination for a first-time visitor as it is for a regular.

The Liberation

Tucked into a century-old building in Downtown Sanford, The Liberation sets the scene before you even sit down. A century of character is baked into the exposed brick walls and original oak floors, and the menu of craft cocktails, small plates, and artisan desserts give you a reason to make an evening of it. The menu is rooted in what’s growing locally, with farm partnerships across four central North Carolina counties and a location just one block from the Sanford Farmers Market. You can taste the difference.

Black’s Tires & Auto

Providing top automotive and tire services, Black’s Tire & Auto Service supports the Sanford, NC, community with expertise and care. The slogan “Black’s Has Your Back” captures the business’s focus on helping customers every step of the way. This welcoming spirit is even embodied in the message on the doors: “Through These Doors Pass the Best People in The World…Our Customers!”

Oxide Gallery of Fine Arts

As a creative hub in Downtown Sanford, Oxide Gallery of Fine Arts offers a space where artists and art lovers can come together. With a variety of local artwork on display, from paintings to sculptures, the gallery celebrates the talent and passion within the local community. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or just curious about the local scene, Oxide Gallery provides an engaging way to explore, connect, and be inspired by the arts.

Vineland & Hickory

Craftsmanship meets creativity at Vineland & Hickory. Founded by Ivy and Todd Childers, this shop specializes in upcycled furniture and handmade leather goods, offering customers one-of-a-kind finds with a personal touch. Named after the founders’ hometowns and opened when they decided to move to Sanford, the store reflects their passion for giving old materials new life. Whether you’re browsing for beautifully restored furniture or a handcrafted leather wallet, Vineland & Hickory promises a shopping experience that blends artistry, sustainability, and local charm.

La Dolce Vita Pizzeria

La Dolce Vita Pizzeria, nestled in the heart of Sanford, NC, offers more than just delicious pizza—it brings new life to a historic downtown building. Owner Renee Fincher restored the former post office building, adding charm and character to this cozy eatery. Known for its authentic Italian flavors and welcoming atmosphere, La Dolce Vita serves up handcrafted pizzas alongside a curated selection of wines and craft beers. Whether you’re stopping by for a quick slice or dining in for a relaxed evening with friends, this pizzeria invites you to experience a little taste of “the sweet life” right in downtown Sanford.

Karen Stanley

Karen Stanley, owner of Stanley’s Home Center, has transformed her family’s business into a thriving interior design destination. As a skilled interior designer and an official Bassett Furniture dealer, Karen has successfully pivoted the store from its hardware roots to a celebrated home furnishings hub, proudly carrying on her family’s legacy. Stop in at Stanley’s Home Center for unique home décor, expert design advice, and the latest furniture collections.