Things To Do
in 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 Trips
Spend a day exploring around
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.
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.
Enjoy a cozy dinner at a local restaurant, sampling regional dishes. End your day with a peaceful stargazing session in the clear Highlands sky.
Kick off your day with a guided fishing trip in one of the pristine lakes. Cast your line and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Have a picnic lunch by the lake before heading out for an exhilarating ziplining experience. Feel the thrill as you soar above the treetops.
Return to your cabin for a barbecue dinner with friends or family. Gather around a campfire to share stories and roast marshmallows.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- 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.
- 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.
Best Activities in Highlands
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the numerous trails in the Highlands, experiencing stunning views and diverse wildlife.
Enjoy fishing in the many lakes and rivers, including opportunities for trout and bass fishing.
Ride through scenic mountain trails, suitable for various skill levels in the picturesque Highlands.
Set up camp in designated areas to enjoy the serenity of nature under the stars.
Observe local wildlife in their natural habitat, including deer, birds, and other native species.
Paddle through tranquil waters of lakes and rivers, perfect for both beginners and experts.
Challenge yourself on local rock formations with varying difficulty levels.
Find a beautiful spot to relax and enjoy a meal surrounded by nature.
Tours
Uncover the best of Highlands with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Highlands
Visit one of these nice places.
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.
Drive along this scenic route that provides numerous overlooks and pull-off spots, ideal for photographing lush landscapes and breathtaking mountain vistas.
Hike to the summit of Whiteside Mountain for breathtaking views of the gorge below and the surrounding peaks, perfect for wide-angle shots.
Capture the beauty of this cascading waterfall, which is especially photogenic after rain or during the fall when the leaves change color.
This stunning waterfall allows you to walk behind the cascading water, offering unique photo opportunities and perspectives for both nature and portrait photography.
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.
An excellent vantage point for panoramic views of the Sapphire Valley, especially beautiful at sunset or during the fall foliage season.
This tranquil lake surrounded by mountains is great for reflection shots, particularly in the early morning when the water is calm.
Food in Highlands
Highlands Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
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!
A beloved Southern classic featuring plump, juicy shrimp served over creamy, buttery grits. Best enjoyed at Wolfgang's Restaurant & Wine Bistro.
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
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.
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
Respect personal space by maintaining a comfortable distance during conversations. In highland cultures, invading personal space can be seen as intrusive.
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.
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 in Highlands
Ensure a smooth experience
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 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.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Highlands.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
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 (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 (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 (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.
Highlands at Night
Hiking in Highlands
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful area with trails that explore the scenic beauty of the Highlands region, offering a mix of easy to moderate hikes.
A popular hiking destination known for its spectacular views and challenging trails. The summit offers breathtaking panoramas of the surrounding landscape.
A moderate hike through lush forest to a stunning waterfall, perfect for a day hike and enjoying nature.
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.
A relatively unknown gem, with various trails providing stunning views and the opportunity to explore diverse wildlife.
Aiports
How to reach Highlands by plane.
Located approximately 30 miles from Highlands, EWR is one of the major international airports serving the New York metropolitan area.
Situated about 40 miles from Highlands, JFK is another key international airport in New York, handling a significant number of international flights.
Located roughly 70 miles away from Highlands, PHL serves as a major airport for domestic and international flights in the Philadelphia area.
About 35 miles from Highlands, LGA primarily handles domestic flights but also offers some international services.
Approximately 30 miles from Highlands, TTN serves domestic flights and some limited international services.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Highlands, representing a significant majority of the population.
A growing demographic group comprising a notable portion of the Highlands population, reflecting a rich cultural presence.
A significant minority group in Highlands, contributing to the ethnic and cultural diversity of the area.
A smaller demographic group in Highlands that adds to the multicultural landscape of the community.
An increasingly recognized group that represents individuals identifying with multiple racial backgrounds.
A small demographic group with deep historical roots in the region, contributing to its cultural heritage.
A very small demographic group in Highlands, adding unique cultural influences to the community.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular sport in the Highlands, with local high schools often participating in competitive leagues during the fall season.
Widely played in schools and community centers, basketball is a favorite pastime with many local leagues available.
A traditional sport in the region, baseball is played at various levels from youth leagues to adult recreational teams.
Gaining popularity among youth, soccer is played in leagues throughout the Highlands, promoting teamwork and athletic development.
With its scenic landscapes, hiking is a favored outdoor activity, attracting both locals and tourists to the numerous trails.
There are several golf courses in the Highlands, catering to enthusiasts and providing opportunities for competitive play.
During winter, skiing becomes a popular recreational activity in the nearby mountains, drawing winter sports enthusiasts.
Biking trails are abundant, and cycling clubs organize regular rides, making it a beloved sport among locals.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Highlands.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many eateries in Highlands provide diverse vegetarian and vegan choices, such as plant-based burgers, salads, and vegan-friendly entrees.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can find accommodating menus at various establishments, including gluten-free pasta dishes, pizzas, and baked goods.