Our golf trip is probably headed to Pinehurst next year. Looking forward to knocking that one off the list. Haven't played since early may here.
I can give you some advice on Pinehurst.....but I've never played the actual Pinehurst courses as they are pretty expensive. We stay at the Comfort Inn, which is a great spot and right next to awesome sports bar. We plan packages through first tee and usually get 3 rounds plus 2 nights at less than $250 per person.
Lagacy is my favorite course down there. You also have to play Tobacco Road once and probably only once just to say you played it. Its the most interesting course I've ever played.