Highlands, North Carolina, is a charming mountain town with a permanent population of just over 1,000 people. Even though we are small, we have plenty of attractions in Highlands, NC, to keep vacationers busy. Whether you want to chase waterfalls, zipline above the forest canopy, check out the local arts scene, or hike challenging mountain trails, there is an experience for everyone’s interests. Plan your visit with Highlands Vacation Rentals and find the perfect accommodations for your North Carolina mountain vacation.
Art and Cultural Attractions
1. The Bascom: Discover the hub of Highlands art scene, offering rotating exhibitions, art classes, workshops, and a shop featuring local artists’ work.
2. Mountain Theatre Company: North Carolina’s oldest continuously operating professional theatre, offering three mainstage shows in the summertime. Attend one of their performances for a night of world-class entertainment.
3. Highlands Performing Arts Center: This community arts center offers everything from bluegrass performances to comedy shows.
4. The Ugly Dog Public House: Head to this local restaurant for libations, delicious food, and entertainment like live music and bingo.
Adventure Attractions
5. Highlands Aerial Park: Visit this outdoor adventure park and enjoy exhilarating zipline tours and adventure courses high above Nantahala National Forest.
6. Highlands Outpost: Discover year-round fun at this local recreation center, offering snow tubing in the winter and mountain coasters, gem mining, and trout fishing in the summer.
7. Jackson Hole Gem Mine: Gem mining is fun for the whole family. Visit this indoor gem mine and look for treasures together.
Nature and Outdoor Attractions
8. Waterfalls: Visit several breathtaking waterfalls along the Mountain Waters Scenic Byway, including Dry Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and Bust Your Butt Falls.
9. Highlands Biological Station & Botanical Gardens: Stroll through Highlands botanical gardens and see thousands of native plants highlighting the botanical diversity of the region.
10. Whiteside Mountain: Climb up Whiteside Mountain, one of the most popular hikes in Highlands, for panoramic views of the mountains. You can also see the Shadow of the Bear phenomen here in the fall and winter.
Reserve Your Highlands, NC, Vacation Rental Today
Book your getaway with Highlands Vacation Rentals and check out the top attractions in Highlands, NC, during your stay. Stay in the heart of Highlands with our hotel suites just two blocks from Main Street, or stay further away in one of our beautiful mountain view homes. Whether you are traveling with your partner or your extended family, we have accommodations for groups of all sizes. Book with us online today!
