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Highlands Vacation Rentals Logo
Highlands Vacation Rentals Logo
828-526-9999

Visit Highlands, North Carolina: Weekend Getaway Itinerary

Road with fall foliage in North Carolina

If you are looking for a weekend getaway in North Carolina where you can spend time in the great outdoors hiking through mountains, visiting waterfalls, and fly fishing for trout, consider heading to Highlands. Our mountain town is located in the beautiful Nantahala National Forest, just 85 miles from Asheville and 170 miles from Charlotte. Spend a weekend in the mountains with Highlands Vacation Rentals and enjoy the perfect blend of privacy, convenience, and top-notch amenities!

Friday

Arrive in Highlands and check in to your vacation rental after 4 pm. Get settled for the weekend and then head into town to start your exploration:

  • Walk down Main Street and explore the charming downtown area. Browse local shops and stroll past historic buildings.
  • Head east down Main Street towards the Nature Center and set out for a short hike on the Sunset Rock trail. This is a great place for a short hike on your first day, especially at sunset!
  • Grab a meal at one of Highlands’ restaurants or head back to your vacation rental to make dinner from the comfort of your rental home. 

Saturday

Wake up bright and early for a full day of adventures in Highlands:

  • Make breakfast in your vacation rental or grab breakfast in town. 
  • Drive down Highway 64 and visit several waterfalls along the Mountain Waters Scenic Byway. Start your waterfall tour at Bridal Veil Falls, continue to Dry Falls, and end your trip at Whitewater Falls.
  • Explore the diverse natural beauty of the region on our hiking trails. From challenging hikes up the mountains to strolls through botanical gardens, there is a trail for everyone. Bring a lunch with you and enjoy a meal on the trails.
  • Take a break from your outdoor exploration and check out the local art and culture scene. See a live performance at Highlands Performing Arts Center and stroll through art exhibitions at The Bascom.
  • If you still have time left in the day, we recommend casting your line in one of our local rivers for some epic trout fishing
  • Cap off the day with drinks and dinner at The Ugly Dog Public House.

Sunday

Check out of your vacation rental by 10 am. If there are any attractions or activities you missed during the first two days, check them out before heading back home!

Find the Perfect Weekend Getaway Retreat in Highlands, North Carolina

Escape to nature and plan your next weekend getaway in Highlands, North Carolina. Whether you are looking to escape the city or want to get away with your loved ones, Highlands offers the perfect destination. Be immersed in nature with our mountain view homes or stay close to town with our properties blocks from Main Street. Book with us online today!

By |2025-08-29T13:41:01-04:00August 29, 2025|Blog|Comments Off on Visit Highlands, North Carolina: Weekend Getaway Itinerary

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