Highlands
,Highlands, United States is a charming small town nestled in the picturesque mountains of North Carolina. Known for its stunning natural beauty and panoramic views, Highlands is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. The town features a vibrant downtown area with unique shops, art galleries, and gourmet restaurants.
Visitors to Highlands can enjoy a range of activities such as hiking, fishing, and exploring waterfalls in the surrounding area.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $250
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $150
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Scenic Highland Adventures
morning
:Start your day with a refreshing hike through the stunning trails of Highlands. Enjoy the fresh mountain air and spot local wildlife along the way.
afternoon
:After lunch, visit the beautiful Bridal Veil Falls, where you can take photos and relax by the water. Don't forget to explore the nearby shops for unique souvenirs.
evening
:Enjoy a cozy dinner at a local restaurant, sampling regional dishes. End your day with a peaceful stargazing session in the clear Highlands sky.
Outdoor Escapade
morning
:Kick off your day with a guided fishing trip in one of the pristine lakes. Cast your line and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
afternoon
:Have a picnic lunch by the lake before heading out for an exhilarating ziplining experience. Feel the thrill as you soar above the treetops.
evening
:Return to your cabin for a barbecue dinner with friends or family. Gather around a campfire to share stories and roast marshmallows.
Highlights
Good
- Scenic landscapes with beautiful mountains and natural beauty.
- Numerous outdoor recreational activities such as hiking, skiing, and fishing.
- Strong sense of community and friendly atmosphere.
- Cultural and historical significance with charming small towns.
- Lower cost of living compared to urban areas.
- Access to fresh, local produce and farmer's markets.
Bad
- Limited access to large shopping centers and amenities.
- Potential for harsh weather conditions, especially in winter.
- Job opportunities may be scarce in certain areas.
- Healthcare facilities may be less accessible than in urban areas.
- Transport links can be less frequent, making travel more difficult.
- Isolation from larger metropolitan areas may lead to limited social activities.
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Hiking
Explore the numerous trails in the Highlands, experiencing stunning views and diverse wildlife.
Fishing
Enjoy fishing in the many lakes and rivers, including opportunities for trout and bass fishing.
Mountain Biking
Ride through scenic mountain trails, suitable for various skill levels in the picturesque Highlands.
Camping
Set up camp in designated areas to enjoy the serenity of nature under the stars.
Wildlife Watching
Observe local wildlife in their natural habitat, including deer, birds, and other native species.
Kayaking/Canoeing
Paddle through tranquil waters of lakes and rivers, perfect for both beginners and experts.
Rock Climbing
Challenge yourself on local rock formations with varying difficulty levels.
Picnicking
Find a beautiful spot to relax and enjoy a meal surrounded by nature.
Adventures
Uncover the best of Highlands with these unforgettable adventures.
Attractions
Visit one of these nice places.
Mountain Lake
This beautiful high-altitude lake offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and is a perfect spot for capturing nature photography, especially during sunrise or sunset.
Highlands Scenic Byway
Drive along this scenic route that provides numerous overlooks and pull-off spots, ideal for photographing lush landscapes and breathtaking mountain vistas.
Whiteside Mountain
Hike to the summit of Whiteside Mountain for breathtaking views of the gorge below and the surrounding peaks, perfect for wide-angle shots.
Rainbow Falls
Capture the beauty of this cascading waterfall, which is especially photogenic after rain or during the fall when the leaves change color.
Dry Falls
This stunning waterfall allows you to walk behind the cascading water, offering unique photo opportunities and perspectives for both nature and portrait photography.
Pinnacle Park
A hidden gem with a variety of trails leading to stunning views of the Highlands area and is perfect for capturing both wildflowers and expansive mountain vistas.
Sapphire Valley Overlook
An excellent vantage point for panoramic views of the Sapphire Valley, especially beautiful at sunset or during the fall foliage season.
Lake Sequoyah
This tranquil lake surrounded by mountains is great for reflection shots, particularly in the early morning when the water is calm.
Cuisine
Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Southern Fried Chicken
Crispy, succulent chicken fried to perfection, often seasoned with a blend of herbs and spices. A must-try dish that embodies the essence of Southern comfort food. Recommended at The Log Cabin Restaurant.
Must-Try!
Shrimp and Grits
A beloved Southern classic featuring plump, juicy shrimp served over creamy, buttery grits. Best enjoyed at Wolfgang's Restaurant & Wine Bistro.
Biscuits and Gravy
Soft, fluffy biscuits smothered in rich sausage gravy - a hearty and indulgent breakfast staple. Found at Buck's Coffee Cafe.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Highlands better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Highlands Farmers Market
A vibrant market offering a wide array of fresh produce, artisanal goods, and homemade treats. Visitors can sample local snacks and browse for organic groceries, herbs, and local honey.
Food Trucks on Main Street
On weekends, Main Street buzzes with food trucks offering diverse street food options, from gourmet hot dogs and barbecue to creative fusion dishes. Don't miss the opportunity to savor the flavors of local street cuisine.
Weather
How To Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Personal Space
Respect personal space by maintaining a comfortable distance during conversations. In highland cultures, invading personal space can be seen as intrusive.
Greetings
Use polite greetings such as 'Hello' or 'How are you?' A firm handshake is common, but be mindful of individuals who may prefer less physical contact.
Showing Appreciation
Demonstrate appreciation for hospitality and local customs. Saying 'thank you' and acknowledging cultural practices fosters good relationships.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Highlands with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping & Payment
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping
Tipping in the Highlands, United States is customary in various service sectors, including restaurants, bars, and taxis. It typically ranges from 15% to 20% of the total bill, depending on the level of service provided. In some cases, especially in higher-end establishments, tips may be expected to be higher. Tipping is considered a way to show appreciation for good service.
Payment
Payment practices in the Highlands generally accept various forms of payment, including cash, credit/debit cards, and mobile payment apps. It is common for businesses to provide digital payment options, but small businesses may still prefer cash. When dining out, checks are typically presented at the end of the meal, and it's common to split the bill among diners. Some establishments may automatically include gratuity for larger parties.
Best Activities
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Highlands.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring
Spring (March to May) is a beautiful time to visit the Highlands as the flowers begin to bloom and temperatures start to rise. Expect mild weather, with temperatures ranging from the mid-40s to mid-70s Fahrenheit. This season offers opportunities for hiking and enjoying the vibrant nature.
Summer
Summer (June to August) is the peak tourist season in the Highlands, with warm weather and numerous outdoor activities available. Expect temperatures to range from the low 60s to high 80s Fahrenheit. Popular activities include hiking, fishing, and attending local festivals, but be prepared for crowded attractions.
Autumn
Autumn (September to November) is a stunning time to visit the Highlands as foliage transforms into vibrant fall colors. Temperatures range from the mid-40s to mid-70s Fahrenheit. This season is perfect for scenic drives, apple picking, and enjoying harvest festivals, with fewer tourists compared to summer.
Winter
Winter (December to February) brings cold weather and opportunities for winter sports in the Highlands. Expect temperatures to typically range from the low 20s to mid-40s Fahrenheit. Visitors can enjoy activities such as skiing, snowboarding, and cozying up in local cabins or lodges. However, be prepared for snow and potential road closures.
Nightlife
Hiking Spots Nearby
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Highlands Nature Center
A beautiful area with trails that explore the scenic beauty of the Highlands region, offering a mix of easy to moderate hikes.
Whiteside Mountain
A popular hiking destination known for its spectacular views and challenging trails. The summit offers breathtaking panoramas of the surrounding landscape.
Rufus Morgan Falls
A moderate hike through lush forest to a stunning waterfall, perfect for a day hike and enjoying nature.
Panthertown Valley
Often referred to as the 'Yosemite of the East,' this area offers over 30 miles of trails through beautiful scenery, including waterfalls and stunning vistas.
Sky Valley
A relatively unknown gem, with various trails providing stunning views and the opportunity to explore diverse wildlife.
Aiports Nearby
How to reach Highlands by plane.
Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)
Located approximately 30 miles from Highlands, EWR is one of the major international airports serving the New York metropolitan area.
John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)
Situated about 40 miles from Highlands, JFK is another key international airport in New York, handling a significant number of international flights.
Philadelphia International Airport (PHL)
Located roughly 70 miles away from Highlands, PHL serves as a major airport for domestic and international flights in the Philadelphia area.
LaGuardia Airport (LGA)
About 35 miles from Highlands, LGA primarily handles domestic flights but also offers some international services.
Trenton-Mercer Airport (TTN)
Approximately 30 miles from Highlands, TTN serves domestic flights and some limited international services.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
White
The largest demographic group in Highlands, representing a significant majority of the population.
Hispanic or Latino
A growing demographic group comprising a notable portion of the Highlands population, reflecting a rich cultural presence.
Black or African American
A significant minority group in Highlands, contributing to the ethnic and cultural diversity of the area.
Asian
A smaller demographic group in Highlands that adds to the multicultural landscape of the community.
Two or More Races
An increasingly recognized group that represents individuals identifying with multiple racial backgrounds.
Native American
A small demographic group with deep historical roots in the region, contributing to its cultural heritage.
Pacific Islander
A very small demographic group in Highlands, adding unique cultural influences to the community.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football
A popular sport in the Highlands, with local high schools often participating in competitive leagues during the fall season.
Basketball
Widely played in schools and community centers, basketball is a favorite pastime with many local leagues available.
Baseball
A traditional sport in the region, baseball is played at various levels from youth leagues to adult recreational teams.
Soccer
Gaining popularity among youth, soccer is played in leagues throughout the Highlands, promoting teamwork and athletic development.
Hiking
With its scenic landscapes, hiking is a favored outdoor activity, attracting both locals and tourists to the numerous trails.
Golf
There are several golf courses in the Highlands, catering to enthusiasts and providing opportunities for competitive play.
Skiing
During winter, skiing becomes a popular recreational activity in the nearby mountains, drawing winter sports enthusiasts.
Cycling
Biking trails are abundant, and cycling clubs organize regular rides, making it a beloved sport among locals.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
Many eateries in Highlands provide diverse vegetarian and vegan choices, such as plant-based burgers, salads, and vegan-friendly entrees.
Gluten-Free Dining
Visitors with gluten intolerance can find accommodating menus at various establishments, including gluten-free pasta dishes, pizzas, and baked goods.