If you want to see the town of Highland and the valley from above, you must go to this park in the evening with a drink in tow and enjoy. Once home to the only Black man to run for mayor of a Southern capital during the Jim Crow Era, Dr. Manassa Thomas Pope, the house museum gives visitors a look into one of Raleighs most fascinating families. So, it shouldnt be surprising, 10 Best Things to Do in Brevard, North Carolina, 15 Best Things to Do in Hendersonville, NC, 22 Asheville Waterfalls You Shouldnt Miss, 30 North Carolina Waterfalls You WONT Believe Exist, 5 Beautiful Outer Banks Lighthouses to See, 20 Blue Ridge Parkway Drive Stops You Have to Make, Three Awesome Breweries in Boone, NC For A Beer. If the weather is nice, head to the Historic Oakwood neighborhood, where you can admire the areas 19th-century Victorian-era homes. That is the Highlander Mountain House Bar! Made with grana padano, Jarlsberg, and white cheddar, its a dish that can only be described as indulgent. Towering mountain peaks covered in verdant forests is the true essence of this small village community. In wintertime, the outdoor ice skating rink provides a magical experience. Great place for a drink. There are also plenty of shops, restaurants, galleries, and entertainment venues you can enjoy with the family. Picnics in natural surroundings are a popular thing with visitors to Highlands but sometimes you just want to sit down to a hot meal that someone else prepares for you and Primary Restaurant and Bar is one of the towns best restaurants where you can do just that! Address: 323 Franklin Rd, Highlands, NC 28741, Website: The Bascom: Center for the Visual Arts, Opening hours: Sun: 12pm - 5pm; Mon - Sat: 10am - 5pm. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Welcome to the Carolinas, as seen through the eyes of Cameron Seagle and Natasha Alden. Eat; Music; Play; Shop; Sports; Stay; See More; No available filters; Clear Filters. All ages are welcome, and the on-site shop sells a wide variety of items including locally-made gifts. From arts and culture, outdoor recreation, to world-class musicians and actors, workshops, lectures, culinary events, festivals and more, there's something for everyone at The Height of Happiness! It is near the Cullasaja Falls and the Dry Falls. Waterfalls! Hopefully you enjoy a view of these things to do in Highlands on your trip. The Cullasaja River Gorge is one of the most beautiful gorges you may ever see. Address: Whiteside Mountain Road, 28741 Highlands, United States / 3504'50.1"N 8308'38.3"W, A post shared by Sean Cullen Carroll (@theseancarroll). 145. Also, the road here is quite scenic, and the overlook is stunning. Today, its a wonderful outdoor space where you can rent a pedal boat, go swimming, ride a carousel, take an art class, and more. The trail is uphill the entire way and a bit challenging. Its a beloved college town home to the Mountaineers and some good beer. You can also learn about the history of the Playhouse theater. Wander Through Highlands Botanical Gardens They generally have music that plays on the weekend and is an ode to the casual mountain spirit of this town. Another paradise for those who love waterfalls is Lower Satulah Falls. If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. In many ways, Stanbury reflects Raleighs own personality; its casual and spirited, but elevated and thoughtful. Perched on a plateau in the southern Appalachian Mountains is picturesque Highlands, North Carolina. She exclaimed, "Everything!" The list is long: Hiking trails, shopping in small-town antique shops and boutiques, attending local community festivals. Address: 3872 Dillard Road, Highlands, NC 28741, A post shared by The Bascom Shop (@thebascomshop). You can easily spot the trail and hike up to the top of Scaly Mountain. The fact that you can walk underneath this waterfall makes this a unique experience. As you make your way through the facility, youll see paintings, sculptures and a range of multi-media artworks. He mentioned today that ticket sales for the last two shows are record setting sales. Friendly and knowledgeable staff is on hand to assist visitors and answer any questions they have about the items theyre looking at. Our essential newsletter filled with Southern musings and recipes. Some of the finest wines around are for sale here and knowledgeable staff members are on hand to help you choose the right one for you. Enjoy a two-mile loop hike on the Whiteside Mountain Trail Source: jacks987 on Instagram Visitors can drink in the beauty of Highlands' natural landscape with a hike on the Whiteside Mountain National Recreation Trail. Another falls in Highlands is the Bridal Veil Falls, visible from the highway. Explore and have a nature escape while strolling the Highlands Plateau Greenway. A visit to North Carolina wouldnt be complete without a plate of barbecue. Find out more about Travel Lens and read our editorial guidelines, Join me as we embark on a gastronomic journey, exploring the best restaurants in Flagstaff, Arizona. Every person reading this same page gets different ads that are more tailored to them. Hiking trails and campgrounds are open to the public, and theres even horseback riding, if thats more your speed. The easy and short drive out of the town towards this fall makes it a favorite among the tourists at Highlands. The Wells Hotel is just off the main road as you head towards Cashiers. Catching a show at Red Hat Amphitheater is a must. If you are driving by Highlands, park at the Osage Overlook parking area along NC 106/Dillard Road. The best part about these falls is theyre easy to get to via a fairly short, paved path. You can climb and reach the top in about half an hour and enjoy the breathtaking view of nature. Nestled in the shadow of the outstanding Whiteside Mountains, the Chattooga River is a magnificent spot to cast your fishing line. Bye. This community theater hosts a variety of events, including plays, cabarets, musicals and Broadway shows that are showcased during the summer months. ncartmuseum.org, 2110 Blue Ridge Rd, Raleigh, NC 27607. Skyline Lodge is tucked away in the rural Blue Ridge Mountain area and offers guests an ideal place to unwind and have a memorable vacation. There is only a tiny pull-off for two or three cars along the road because of the position (on the left if you are heading west from Highlands). THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Highlands - Tripadvisor The Height of Happiness ELEVATION 4118 FEET The quaint town of Highlands, NC offers an engaging, warm, and welcoming spirit. Morning, afternoon and all day classes available. This great circle, designated a National Recreation Trail, ascends to the summit of Whiteside Mountain, whose breathtaking 700-foot-high sheer cliffs elevate hikers for spectacular vistas. My family has eaten there for birthdays, Thanksgivings, and when friends who havent tried barbecue before come to town, he says. raleighnc.gov, 1721 Riverview Rd, Raleigh, NC 27610, North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources. The falls freeze during the winter, and that is another photo-worthy scene. North Carolina Summer Vacation in Highlands. They also have a small collection of books and vintage clothing that you can shop for. On display are a wide variety of artworks by local artists and as you wander through the exhibits, you may even get the chance to see some of the artists hard at work on their newest ventures. Overall, this is a great place to spend a few hours and the facility is open all year round from dusk until dawn. You can also enjoy some drinks at the Skyline Lodge Bar, open daily from early afternoon until evening. Anything you buy is sure to be bursting with flavor to enhance any upcoming family meal. Whiteside Mountain is a moderate two-mile loop that offers incredible views from the top of the mountain. Whether you just want to purchase some wine to take with you or you want to sit down and enjoy some good food and drink, a stop at the Highlands Wine Shop is a must for wine lovers. Whiteside Mountain is very popular and gets crowded early. I would definitely recommend visiting Highlands, North Carolina, with your kids, especially if you love the outdoors and slower paced travel. This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. First off, nothing is sick about Planned Parenthood. Our aim is to help you get the most out of your travel around the Carolinas. The waterfall itself is about 80 feet high with waters cascading freely into the Cullasaja River from about 40 feet. The grand restaurant On the Verandah gives you everything you could want from an unforgettable dining experience: romantic setting, lakefront views, scrumptious food, and attentive service. Even if youre not a lover of fine art, youll appreciate the beautiful pieces on display at the Carolina Gallery of Fine Art. There's a lot to see here, from lighting fixtures to architectural pieces, cement molds, etc. We love the Carolinas and think they are one of the most special areas in the world. The proprietors are extremely helpful and friendly. The sale items prices are reasonable and suitable for customers with various spending strategies. Your email address will not be published. The Blue Ridge Parkway is known as Americas favorite drive. Its 469 miles in total, starting with the stunning Shenandoah National Park and ending with the gorgeous Great Smoky Mountains. This town lies on a plateau in the southern Appalachian Mountains and promises breathtaking natural beauty. This center is also comprised of fun art workshops, a pottery shed, a huge green terrace, a nature trail, and an inviting cafe. Calders Coffee is the main coffee shop in town. THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Highlands - Tripadvisor 25 Best Things to Do in Highlands, NC - Travel Lens The trip to Glen Falls will be a unique and memorable way to spend a day with your family. Even the six acres of property surrounding the building are worth exploring. One of the best things to do in Highlands with the family is zipline across the sky! It takes less than a mile to get to the top of a mountain trail. After finishing the hike, you may also carry a picnic lunch or enjoy a meal at the Dillard House and reward yourself. Address: 1536 Franklin Rd, Highlands, NC 28741, Opening hours: Sun: 11am - 2pm, 5:30pm - 9pm; Mon - Sat: 5:30pm - 9pm. You can also see stuffed animals and information about them in the visitor's area. Wolfgangs Bistro, if you cant get into Paolettis, this is a lovely place next door to dine! As you walk along the boardwalks, youll see a pretty pond, colorful flowers, trees, shrubs, mosses, a meadow and wetlands. Equipped with a picture-perfect waterfall and a fabulous wetlands boardwalk, Highlands Botanical Gardens is the ideal place to enjoy a sunny afternoon. Highlands Events Calendar - Highlands Chamber of Commerce As you zip through the forest canopy, be sure to check out the views consisting of distant mountains and stunning natural scenes. Its a really special thing to have access to, says Christensen. If youre looking for travel adventures or want a nature escapade, youll surely enjoy your stay in this town. Likewise, you can bring your family for a Movie Night in the Park. Cameron grew up in Charlotte and spent his childhood traveling around this great region. The store has a vast collection of reclaimed articles and items to look around and marvel at. Paolettis is easily the most iconic spot in town. Top off your meals with indulging desserts like Pavlova or Decadence Cake from Madison's Restaurant and Wine Garden. Wintertime, when the leaves are gone, offers the best vistas. 63 Things to Do with Kids in Highlands, NC | TripBuzz Being so high up and free of crowds early in the morning and late evening, this is also a great place to watch sunrises and sunsets. Raleigh is filled with great restaurants, bars, and bakeries, and is surrounded by lots of really cool agricultural entitiesfrom small farms and ranches to cheese producers, to heirloom grain projects, Christensen explains. This 45-foot-tall waterfall is unique in that you can park your car in the nearby lot and walk behind the falls. Located 9 miles from Highlands and 9 miles from Franklin, the family-owned Jackson Hole Gem Mine is another popular tourist destination. This is sick. How this article was written: Our team, Come along with me as I introduce you to some of the best restaurants this in Jackson, Michigan - I guarantee you won't be disappointed. Landmark Vacation Rentals Highlands Nc - VacationTalk.net Sliding Rock 4 "This is fun! However, their dream of a luxe mountain retreat still prevailed. On the way to the top, youll see cliffs that are said to be the highest in the eastern United States and the Devils Courthouse, which is a mesa looking out over the Pisgah National Forest. If you happen to be in the area during the off-season, you might be able to catch one of the films that are shown from time to time. For 61 miles through the Nantahala National Forest, youll enjoy these views and many places where you can pull over and take pictures and explore the natural wonders. Today Highlands NC is home to a delightful town square brimming with antique shops, world-class resorts, surrounded by breathtaking hikes and excellent restaurants. Top 16 Things To Do In Highlands, North Carolina, For An - Trip101 Started in 1962 as a small demonstration garden, it has since grown into a large facility thats home to hundreds of plants that are native to the southern Appalachian region. Mirror Lake Antiques is yet another beautiful shop when you are in the Highlands. Its incredibly affordable and where I would go instead of Mountain Fresh in town. As you have probably noticed, there are many stunning waterfalls across the Highlands, including Secret Falls. The world-class hotel has an award-winning spa, an excellent piano bar, and two restaurants to choose from. From its neighborhood location to its unassuming atmosphere and amazing food [Stanbury] is always a win, says Angela Salamanca, owner of Raleighs Centro and Gallo Peln Mezcaleria. Pro tip: Download the free walking tour brochure before you go. 7 Spectacular Things to Do in Highlands, NC in the Fall Top 10 Best Things to Do near Highlands, NC 28741 - Yelp THE 10 BEST Things to Do in Highlands - 2023 (with Photos) - Tripadvisor Bring a picnic, stay and watch the sunset. You can either visit the museum itself, which has an extraordinary collection, or you can take a stroll down the park. Flat Mountain Farm is the new kid in town and already making a big splash! Situated only nine miles away from Highlands this family-run facility features a covered gem mine where you can safely mine for native and enriched stones. thepit-raleigh.com, 328 W Davie St, Raleigh, NC 27601. 31 American (New) Wine Bars $$ "Spoke to us about the menu talked about drinks was very helpful about activities to do in the area." read more 2. Review of: Mountain Theatre Company at The Highlands Playhouse . Tourists can relish a diverse assortment of activities such as hiking, fishing, golfing, and whitewater rafting. Things To Do In Highlands NC | The Highlands Inn Whatever gems you discover, from rubies to aquamarines, you get to keep! Dutchman Designs is an eclectic store filled with home goods, antiques, and new pieces to fill your home with. You can mostly find paintings exhibited here; however, some sculpture and multi-media art can also be seen here. This article may contain affiliate links. (Do a quick search on the following sites). Whitewater Fly Fishing Toxaway, NC 828-966-9646 Fly fishing instruction. Her work has been published in Travel + Leisure, Cond Nast Traveler, and Garden & Gun, among others. 1. Toxaway, NC 828-966-9646 Fly fishing instruction. However, it is totally worth it and thoroughly enjoyable. CK Swan is a beautiful store for home goods and accessories. The exhibits and outdoor grounds are one of my favorite spots in Raleighespecially ideal for exploring as a family, and introducing to visiting friends, says Shepherd. Dry Falls 1,634 Waterfalls By 792annas This is one of many waterfalls in this area which has the highest concentration of waterfalls in our majestic country. A North Carolina summer vacation in Highlands offers endless outdoor recreation opportunities such as hiking, fishing, biking, kayaking, ziplining, and golfing. When you are around Highlands, watch a play at the Playhouse with a glass of wine. Submit your event in Highlands NC today! Another major attraction here is the cute Lilly pond. Elevation Change: ~250ft. From May to October, Highlands hosts the Outdoor Concert Series with free concerts every Friday and Saturday night at various locations around the town. The trip to Glen Falls will be a unique and memorable way to spend a day with your family. The brisket and the fried pimento cheese balls. The Ruffed Grouse just opened inside of the Highlander Mountain House and it couldnt be more perfect of a setting for this mountain city. Spend the weekends for a night of great music at the Outdoor Concert Series. The grounds are very wooded and situated on fantastic green rolling hills. As you browse the galleries, youll see a variety of artworks including pottery, paintings, ceramics and sculptures. Youll definitely experience a mix of small-town charm and nature-loving bliss when you visit. From the parking area, a short, steep track descends the hill; however, it is not a designated trail. This walking tour offers two choices: an easy three-block walk or a lengthy 20-block walk, about 3.5 miles (5.63 kilometers). There are a variety of excellent shops in Downtown Highlands, you really cant go wrong with any of them. Although you can see Bridal Veil Falls from the roadway, nothing beats seeing this waterfall up close! A great way to explore the natural side of Highlands is with a hike through the Highlands Plateau Greenway. Treat yourself to a memorable spa experience at The Old Edwards Inn Spa. This mountain town has a charming downtown area with boutique shops, art galleries, and restaurants. But before you do that you need to visit the Highland Hiker on Main Street. The prices of the items on sale are fair and suit shoppers with different budget plans. There are guardrails; you can take their support and walk up to the river. Raleigh has more than 80 music venues and hosts a number of music festivals throughout the year. Fishing Highland Hiker. The beautiful cascades are a sight to behold any time of year, but in the winter, the waterfall freezes and offers up quite a unique photo op! Highlands NC Travel Guide Blog - Best Things to Do in Highlands NC The High Dive oozes an after-hours ambiance and cold beer and tasty cocktails fill the mugs and glasses of patrons. Easely an Artist can be entertainment for the entire family or a fun date-night setting. Guided tours are available. We are using cookies to give you the best experience on our website. Possessing an average elevation of 4,118 feet (1,255 meters), Highlands offers a magical setting in an abundantly green and wooded area tucked away in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains, a province within the Appalachian Mountains. Nestled at 4118 feet above sea level, it is the highest town east of the Mississippi River and has a cool climate to match. A unique feature is that the falls sometimes display a beautiful rainbow in the afternoon light. liberationstationbookstore.com, 208 Fayetteville St, Raleigh, NC 27601. A post shared by Sayde Faraday (@saydefaraday). The indoor exhibitions, which span thousands of years, and the outdoor Ann and Jim Goodnight Museum Park are both free to the public. On hot days, you can even swim in that pool to cool off before making the hike back to your car. If you arent an experienced hiker, its best not to hike down. Its definitely a mountain institution. In my 5 years of traveling here, Ive seen it all, done it twice, and am putting together the best Highlands NC travel guide for you to use on your next weekend retreat up there. Its one of the most frequently visited mountain towns in NC, and for good reason. The trail is free and open to the public daily, so you can enjoy the sunrise or gaze at the magnificent sunset in the afternoon. Whether youre a seasoned pro or a complete novice, Easely an Artist welcomes you to have a great time. Subscribe to our newsletter for inspiring travel guides and articles from around the world! This trail is moderately difficult and great for peaceful nature walks, serious hiking, and fun bird watching. Address: 6.5 miles (10.46 kilometers) west of Highlands via US Highway 64. Events Calendar Shopping Cultural Arts Mountain Adventures and Recreation Wellness and Beauty Trails Filters View Back To Top 11 Best Things to Do in Highlands, North Carolina - VacationIdea.com BREWS on the Alley. The menu features a variety of delicious options for lunch and dinner including salads, burgers, sandwiches, seafood dishes and specialty house items. Raleigh offers the best of both worlds, says Sarah Shepherd, owner of Heights House Hotel. Found on the Cullasaja River, Bust Your Butt Falls has the added thrill of a nicely positioned jumping-off boulder that affords an exciting dive into the quite icy waters. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Hi! Although some of the descent is steep, those areas are covered by stairs. The major attraction of the Cullasaja River Gorge is the magnificent drive through Rt.1. Dustys Rhodes Superette if all of the places in town have too long of a wait, you can always jot over to Dusty Rhodes to pick up some freezer meals and a quick sandwich, pie or cheese plate to take home. Hiking Located in the Nantahala National Forest there are plenty of gorgeous places to get out for a day hike. Enjoy the Stunning Cullasaja Falls Address: Highlands (GPS) Located 8.8 miles west of Highlands on US Highway 64 (also known as Mountain Waters Scenic Highway & Waterfall Byway), along a lovely cliff drive Cullasaja Falls can be seen from the side of the road as it winds through the Cullasaja River Gorge in the Nantahala National Forest. Required fields are marked *. You can find incredible things there like the bentwood table and chairs I scored for $40. Lydia Mansel has written about travel, and the South, in particular, for nearly a decade. You can enjoy your wine with chocolate, cheese, and many other things. We typically like to stop here on the way out of town for an iced coffee before heading down the mountain. 3. 3. In fact, the entire building is a piece of art by itself. The walk around the lake is very relaxing and promises to fill you with happiness. Best of Highlands: Find must-see tourist attractions and things to do in Highlands, North Carolina. The states capital, Raleigh mixes your typical city featurestall buildings, museums, dedicated green spaces, and a variety of restaurants and barswith a decidedly North Carolinian authenticity and quaintness. Make sure you give yourself adequate time to look around and make the most of your visit. . Our love story begins in Wilmington, where we met while attending UNCW. It is made from an Amish barn from Pennsylvania. The entire restaurant is situated facing the lake with full view of it in every direction. Dont forget to grab your lawn chair or blankets and pack some food and drinks while you enjoy the performances. Perfect for a remote retreat for couples. Try their Farmers, Garden, or Cheese Omelets, all served with Country White and Sour Wheat Toast, then add some sides and morning beverages like coffee, tea, juice, Mimosa, or Titos Bloody Mary. 10 Fun Things to Do in Highlands July 2023 | Expedia The medium-intensity hike is worth every bit, as the view of the waterfalls in the woods is stunning. Its pretty well priced for the majority of their items. 1. While it can be a little challenging to find, the locations splendor will completely enthrall you once you get there. If you like to explore antiques, especially architectural salvages, this is the right place. Youll likely need a reservation in the high season as tables fill up pretty quickly on a nice day. Morgan Street Food Hall, located in the Warehouse District, is home to 20-plus culinary concepts, including handcrafted burger spot Cow Bar, Oak City Fish & Chips, and Curry in a Hurry. Overlooking peaceful Lake Sequoyah, On the Verandah offers a sophisticated menu that blends Asian, European, and American cuisine cooked with fresh ingredients and locally grown produce. Dry Falls 1,632 Waterfalls By 792annas This is one of many waterfalls in this area which has the highest concentration of waterfalls in our majestic country. The property is incredibly lovely and has its own waterfall. There are plenty of other trails in the area but these are the closest to town without having to actually leave the city. Highlands NC is a beautiful mountain town set at what the founders at the time thought would be the ideal intersection of Midwestern and NorthEastern train travel. Reservations tend to book up in advance so if you know when youre going, grab a reservation as soon as possible. And most of all, enjoy the best things to do in Highlands, North Carolina. By DougJ25. 05/29/2021 | by Cynthia. After all the outdoor activities, youll look forward to relaxing at a comfortable downtown accommodation. Distance: ~1.5 miles roundtrip. Because of its unparalleled natural beauty and agreeable climate, Highlands was intended as a health and recreational resort by its founders.