In the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the town of Highlands is an unforgettable spot for your next North Carolina vacation. Experience the perfect blend of outdoor recreation, art, and culture and discover fun things to do in Highlands throughout the seasons. Explore hiking trails, visit local waterfalls, uncover the arts scene, dine on Main Street, and ski down the mountains when the snow falls. Use the categories below to plan your visit, and let Highlands Vacation Rentals help you find the perfect place to stay.
Arts & Culture
Highlands is a place that has inspired artists for generations. Experience the thriving arts scene at The Bascom, the Highlands Performing Arts Center, and the Mountain Theatre Company. Listen to live music, browse local art, watch a theatrical performance, and wander through exhibitions.
Day Trips
Highlands makes a great starting point for exploring North Carolina’s charming mountain towns. Set out on a day trip from Highlands to discover waterfalls, hiking trails, and great attractions in neighboring cities like Cashiers, Brevard, and Sylva.
Events & Festivals
With a full calendar of events and festivals in Highlands, there is always something happening here. Make the most of your trip and join us for signature events like the Highlands Food and Wine Festival in fall, the Highlands-Cashiers Chamber Music Festival in the summer, and the Bear Shadow Music Festival in the spring.
Golf
Tee off amid rolling terrain, lush forests, and the towering Blue Ridge Mountains at the area’s public golf courses. Play a round at Sapphire National Golf Course or Sky Valley Golf Course.
Hiking Trails
There are endless hiking trails in and around Highlands, taking you through mountains, waterfalls, forests, overlooks, and wildflowers. Take an easy stroll at Highlands Botanical Gardens or challenge yourself on the climb up Whiteside Mountain.
Kid-Friendly Activities
Highlands is fun for all ages. Enjoy kid-friendly activities year-round at Highlands Outpost, Highlands Aerial Park, and the Highlands Nature Center. From ziplining to snow tubing, the days fill themselves.
Outdoor Adventures
Why stay inside when you can play outdoors? Discover four seasons of outdoor adventures in Highlands and spend your time hiking, fishing, watching wildlife, chasing waterfalls, golfing, ziplining, ice skating, skiing, and snow tubing.
Restaurants
Enjoy great food at the restaurants in Highlands, NC. From elegant Italian restaurants to laidback pizza joints, there is something for every craving along Main Street.
Scenic Overlooks
Looking for that memorable vacation photo? Drive to the scenic overlooks in Highlands for beautiful views, quiet sunsets, and peaceful moments amid nature.
Waterfalls
Highlands is one of the best places to chase waterfalls in North Carolina. See the dramatic cascades of Dry Falls and Bridal Veil Falls from the road or hike to waterfalls like Glen Falls or Whitewater Falls.
Watersports
Lake Glenville is a popular destination for those who enjoy watersports, just a short drive from Highlands. Head to the lake in the summer months for boating, fishing, kayaking, swimming, jet skiing, paddleboarding, and sightseeing.
