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High on Fun: Best Places to Visit and Things to Do in Highlands, NC

Cullasaja Falls sits 8.8 miles west of Highlands and can be seen from the road. Dry Falls lets you walk behind the water and take the mist on your face. Bridal Veil Falls lets you drive your car straight underneath it. Whiteside Mountain National Recreation Trail runs a loop up to the long view. And the Waterfall Byway strings a run of them together in one drive.

Are you planning a trip to Highlands, North Carolina? You are in for a treat. This charming town sits in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains and is known for its natural beauty, outdoor activities and unique experiences. A relaxing getaway or an adventure-filled vacation, Highlands has an answer for each.

The waterfalls and hiking trails are one of the main draws of Highlands. Dry Falls through the moderate hike at Glen Falls, the chances to work through the great outdoors run long. For the adventurous, take a dip in one of the many swimming holes or go whitewater rafting on the nearby rivers.

When the great outdoors is done for the day, the shopping and dining in the charming downtown area take over. Boutique shops through upscale restaurants, every taste and budget is covered. And for art and culture, take the local galleries and museums. With that much to see and do, the things to do in Highlands, North Carolina do not run out.

Key Takeaways

• Highlands, North Carolina is a charming town nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
• The town is known for its natural beauty, outdoor activities, and unique experiences.
• Visitors can enjoy waterfalls and hiking trails, shopping and dining, and art and culture in Highlands.

The Natural Beauty of Highlands, North Carolina

You are in for a real treat when it comes to the natural beauty of Highlands, North Carolina. This charming mountain town sits in the Southern Appalachian Mountains, surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains. Everywhere you turn, the views hold you where you stand.

The Cullasaja Falls is one of the natural wonders to take in the area. Sitting just 8.8 miles west of Highlands on US Highway 64, this waterfall can be seen from the side of the road as it winds through the Cullasaja River Gorge in the Nantahala National Forest. It is a sight to behold, and your Instagram followers will feel it.

For a hike, head over to Whiteside Mountain National Recreation Trail. This heavily trafficked loop trail runs moderately difficult and suits peaceful nature walks, serious hiking and fun bird watching. The views from the top hold up, and the world sits under you from there.

For something more relaxing, take a stroll through the Highlands Botanical Gardens. This 12-acre garden holds a long list of plants, rare and endangered species among them. It fills an afternoon and covers the local flora along the way.

Whatever you choose to do, the natural beauty of Highlands, NC sits around you. So get out there and explore.

Waterfalls and Hiking Trails

For an adventure in Highlands, North Carolina, the waterfalls and hiking trails are the answer. With that many waterfalls and scenic trails, knowing where to start takes some doing. Here are the highlights:

Glen Falls

Glen Falls is a moderate hike that pays out with a three-tiered waterfall at the end. The trail is well-maintained and easy to follow, and some sections run steep. And bring your camera.

Bridal Veil Falls

Bridal Veil Falls is a unique waterfall that you can actually drive under. Yes, you read that right. You drive your car underneath the waterfall. It earns the stop if you are in the area.

Dry Falls

Dry Falls is the other waterfall to take in the area. You walk behind the waterfall and take the mist on your face. It is a short, easy hike that suits families with kids.

Waterfall Byway

The Waterfall Byway is a scenic drive running past some of the finer waterfalls in the area. It covers a lot of waterfalls in a short amount of time.

East Fork Overflow Creek

The East Fork Overflow Creek trail follows a creek through the forest. It is where you go for a peaceful, quiet hike.

So there you have it, some of the stronger waterfalls and hiking trails in Highlands, North Carolina. Experienced hiker or someone just after a fun day trip, each has an answer here. And pack your hiking boots and your sense of adventure.

Outdoor Activities

Looking for some fun in the sun? Highlands, North Carolina has it covered. Here are the outdoor activities to take during your visit.

Whiteside Mountain

You cannot visit Highlands without hiking Whiteside Mountain. The view of the surrounding areas from the top carries it. Be warned though, because the hike is not for the faint of heart. The trail runs steep and rocky, so bring your hiking boots and plenty of water.

Sunset Rock

For a romantic evening, head to Sunset Rock. The sunset over the mountains does the work from there. Bring a picnic and some wine and take the view with your loved one.

Cliffside Lake Recreation Area

For a day of fun in the sun, head to Cliffside Lake Recreation Area. You swim, you fish, and you can even rent a paddleboat. Plenty of picnic tables and grills sit there too, so a whole day works.

Chinquapin Mountain Trail

For a challenge, try hiking the Chinquapin Mountain Trail. This trail is not for the faint of heart, and the views from the top are worth it.

So there you have it, some of the stronger outdoor activities in Highlands, North Carolina. Hiker, swimmer, or someone just after a peaceful escape, Highlands has an answer for each.

Shopping and Dining in Highlands

Highlands carries a lot on shopping and dining. Main Street through the boutique shops, something here suits your taste and budget. Here are the places to visit for shopping and dining in Highlands.

Reclamations

For unique and stylish home décor, take Reclamations. They run a strong selection of vintage and reclaimed furniture, alongside home accessories and gifts. A statement piece or just something to spruce up your home, Reclamations covers both.

Mirror Lake Antiques

Antique lovers should take Mirror Lake Antiques. They run antique furniture, décor and collectibles, all in excellent condition. Serious collector or someone just after something unique for the home, Mirror Lake Antiques earns the visit.

Carolina Gallery of Fine Art

Art lovers should take the Carolina Gallery of Fine Art. They run a strong selection of contemporary and traditional art, paintings, sculptures and more among them. Adding to a collection or just looking, the Carolina Gallery of Fine Art holds up either way.

So a strong meal or some unique shopping, Highlands has an answer for each. Take these spots on your next visit.

Art and Culture

In Highlands you are surrounded by a deep cultural scene running theater through music through the visual arts. Here are a few places to check out:

The Bascom

For design, glass or ceramic art, take The Bascom: Center for the Visual Arts. This arts center sits in a historic building that was once a school and has been turned into a hub for creativity. With rotating exhibits, classes and workshops, something new keeps turning up at The Bascom.

Highlands Playhouse

For a night of entertainment, head to the Highlands Playhouse. This theater has been around since the 1930s and has entertained locals and visitors alike ever since. A classic play or a Broadway musical, something there will tickle your funny bone or tug at your heartstrings.

Highlands-Cashiers Chamber Music Festival

Classical music fans should not miss the Highlands-Cashiers Chamber Music Festival. This annual event brings some of the more talented musicians in the world together for a series of concerts that leave you inspired. Beethoven through Bach, the music runs in an intimate and welcoming setting.

Art aficionado or someone just after a fun night out, Highlands runs plenty on art and culture. So take a break from hiking and exploring and let the creative side of this charming mountain town work on you.

The scale is the thing you notice here, and it does not let up at all. The Cullasaja River Gorge runs through the Nantahala National Forest below the road. A three-tiered waterfall waits at the end of a moderate hike at Glen Falls. Whiteside Mountain puts the whole world underneath you once you reach the top. And the Blue Ridge runs in every direction at once from Osage Overlook.

Accommodation Options

Looking for a place to stay in Highlands, NC? You are in luck. Plenty of options run here, cozy bed and breakfasts through luxurious resorts. Here are a few of our top picks:

Old Edwards Inn and Spa

For a genuinely luxurious experience, the Old Edwards Inn and Spa is the answer. This European-style resort is filled with amenities, dining venues and individually appointed guest rooms, suites and cottages. You feel like royalty soaking in the heated mineral pools or taking a massage at the spa. And the on-site restaurants run some of the stronger dining in town.

Half-Mile Farm

For a more rustic experience, take Half-Mile Farm. This charming bed and breakfast runs cozy rooms and suites with long views of the surrounding countryside. Take a delicious breakfast each morning and give the days to the nearby hiking trails or the fishing in the on-site pond.

Skyline Lodge

On a budget, Skyline Lodge is a strong option. This no-frills motel runs clean, comfortable rooms at an affordable price. And it sits conveniently near many of the top attractions in town.

Wherever you choose to stay, the time in Highlands, NC holds up. So pack your bags, book your room, and get ready for a weekend getaway that sticks.

Local Delicacies

On food, Highlands, North Carolina carries a lot. Fine dining through casual eateries, each has an answer here. Here are the local delicacies not to miss.

Madison’s Restaurant

For a fancy night out, Madison’s Restaurant is the answer. This upscale eatery runs a menu of classic American dishes with a modern twist. Start with the crab cakes, which hold up against any you have had. For the main course, try the filet mignon or the duck breast. And save room for dessert, because the chocolate mousse cake is out of this world.

Kilwins

With a sweet tooth, you have to stop by Kilwins. This charming little shop runs handmade chocolates, fudge and ice cream. Try the sea salt caramel truffles or the dark chocolate seafoam. And for something cold, the mint chocolate chip ice cream is the order.

Whatever your taste buds are craving, something delicious turns up in Highlands, North Carolina.

Nearby Towns and Attractions

In Highlands, plenty of nearby towns and attractions are worth checking out. Here are a few not to miss:

Franklin

A short drive from Highlands, Franklin is a charming town known for its gem mining. To strike it rich, head to the Franklin Gem and Mineral Museum or try your luck at one of the many gem mines in the area. And for the adventurous, hike to the top of Wayah Bald for the long views.

Cashiers

Sitting in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Cashiers is a picturesque town that suits a day trip. Take a stroll through the quaint downtown area and browse the local shops, or head to one of the nearby waterfalls for a refreshing swim.

Cherokee

A short drive from Highlands, Cherokee is where you pick up Native American history and culture. Visit the Museum of the Cherokee Indian for the history of the tribe, or try your luck at the Harrah’s Cherokee Casino.

Wherever you go, something fun and exciting runs near Highlands. So grab your friends and family and start exploring.

Unique Experiences

Looking for something out of the ordinary? Highlands, North Carolina runs plenty of unique experiences. Here are a few of our favorites:

Brookings Anglers

Fishing fans should not miss Brookings Anglers. They run guided fly fishing trips on some of the stronger trout streams in the Southeast. Seasoned pro or beginner, they provide everything you need for a successful day on the water. And on the lucky days you land a trophy-sized fish to brag about.

Osage Overlook

For a long view of the mountains, head to Osage Overlook. This scenic overlook runs panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Chattooga River. It suits a romantic picnic or a peaceful moment of reflection. And on the lucky days some wildlife turns up while you are there.

Ziplining

For an adrenaline rush, try ziplining through the treetops. Highlands Aerial Park runs a variety of zipline courses, one of them over 1,100 feet long and reaching speeds of up to 35 miles per hour. It is a thrilling way to take the beauty of the mountains. And for the genuinely brave, try their “Leap of Faith” freefall experience.

So a relaxing day on the water, a long mountain view, or an exhilarating adventure, Highlands, North Carolina has an answer for each.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the deal with Dry Falls in Highlands, NC?

Dry Falls is a waterfall you can walk behind without getting wet. It is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike, and the reason is not hard to see. The path to the falls is well-maintained, and the view from behind the waterfall holds you where you stand. And bring your camera.

Where can I find the best food in Highlands, NC?

Highlands runs a strong food scene, with options for every taste and budget. For delicious Southern comfort food, head to Mountain Fresh Grocery. For something a little fancier, take Wolfgang’s Restaurant & Wine Bistro. And for a quick bite, stop by The Ugly Dog Public House for some tasty pub fare.

What are some unique things to do in Downtown Highlands?

Downtown Highlands is a charming area running plenty of unique shops and attractions. Take The Dry Sink for some one-of-a-kind antiques, or stop by the Highlands Playhouse for a live performance. And do not miss The Bascom center for the visual arts, which runs rotating exhibits and classes for all ages.

Is The Bascom center for the visual arts worth a visit?

Absolutely. The Bascom is where you explore your creative side, experienced artist or beginner. The center runs classes in a variety of mediums, painting, pottery and sculpture among them. And the rotating exhibits stay interesting and thought-provoking.

Why should I spend a weekend in Highlands, NC?

Highlands is a town that carries a lot for visitors. Waterfalls through delicious food through unique shops and attractions, each has an answer. And the town runs a relaxed and friendly feel that settles you in quickly.

What’s the best time of year to visit Highlands, NC?

Highlands works as a destination year-round, though the timing depends on your preferences. For fall foliage, plan the trip for October or November. For outdoor activities like hiking and fishing, visit in the spring or summer. And for winter sports, hit the slopes at nearby ski resorts from December through February.

Frequently asked questions about Highlands, North Carolina

Which Highlands trail is worth the climb?

Whiteside Mountain, and it costs you nothing. The National Recreation Trail is a moderately difficult loop that suits peaceful nature walks, serious hiking and bird watching, and the view from the top pays for the steep and rocky sections. Chinquapin Mountain Trail is the harder one to take instead of that. That one is not for the faint of heart either, by any measure. East Fork Overflow Creek runs quiet and flat along a creek instead.

Is Dry Falls worth the walk behind it?

Yes, and it is a short and easy hike. You walk behind the waterfall and take the mist on your face, which is why it suits families with kids. Bridal Veil Falls is the one you drive underneath instead of that. Cullasaja Falls sits 8.8 miles west on US Highway 64 and needs no walking at all. And Glen Falls asks for a moderate hike and pays out with three tiers.

Which lake near Highlands suits a free day?

Cliffside Lake Recreation Area, without much argument. You swim, you fish, and the picnic tables and grills are already there, so a whole day costs about what you packed into the basket. A paddleboat is the one thing you actually rent there. Sunset Rock is the other free spot to take instead of that. That one wants a picnic and the sun going down over the mountains behind it.

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