THINGS TO DO IN HIGHLANDS, NORTH CAROLINA
Out here,
days unfold differently.
Waterfalls before lunch. Main Street after.
Or absolutely no plans at all.
HIGHLANDS, NORTH CAROLINA
Big mountain scenery meets a small town with a lot to discover. Use this guide to shape your stay, then follow your own pace.
01 / ON THE TRAIL
Find a view worth the walk.
Start with Whiteside Mountain, a moderate two-mile loop with dramatic cliff-top views. For a shorter outing near downtown, explore Sunset Rock and settle in for the changing light.
Choose a route that suits your group, bring layers and water, and check current trail conditions before setting out.
Explore Highlands hikes
02 / WATERFALL COUNTRY
Follow the sound of the water.
Dry Falls and Bridal Veil Falls are classic stops along US 64 west of Highlands. At Dry Falls, the path can take you behind the waterfall when conditions allow. Glen Falls is a forest hike with a steeper return uphill.
Use designated paths and overlooks. Wet rocks can be slippery, and access can change with weather and maintenance.
Explore eight nearby waterfalls
03 / DOWN MAIN STREET
A little browsing. A little lingering.
Make an afternoon of downtown Highlands. Browse boutiques, art, jewelry, and home shops, then pause for a coffee or a long lunch. The pleasure is in taking your time.
Mix a morning outdoors with an afternoon around Main Street for a lovely change of pace.
Discover Highlands shopping
04 / AROUND TOWN
See what’s happening while you’re here.
Seasonal outdoor concerts, art events, live performances, and downtown celebrations add another reason to come back. Check what’s happening at Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park and around town during your visit.
Use the current calendar to plan around your dates; schedules and seasonal programming change.
See the Highlands events calendar
05 / ON THE FAIRWAY
Make it a mountain golf day.
The Highlands-Cashiers area is known for mountain golf, but many local clubs are private or restrict access. Arrange eligibility and tee times directly before planning your day.
For public-play options farther afield, the Highlands visitor FAQ points to The Golf Club at Mill Creek in Franklin and Kingwood Resort in Clayton. Confirm current public access and availability with the course.
Read the visitor golf guidance
06 / A LITTLE INDULGENCE
An Old Edwards afternoon.
Make time for The Spa at Old Edwards Inn. Explore its treatment menu and inquire directly about appointments and access for visitors staying elsewhere.
A reservation at Netsi Place does not include Old Edwards amenities. Spa appointments and access are arranged separately and are subject to the inn’s policies and availability.
Explore The Spa at Old Edwards
07 / PULL UP A CHAIR
Good days deserve a lovely dinner.
For a special meal, look into Madison’s at Old Edwards Inn or Ristorante Paoletti. Try Four65 Woodfire Bistro + Bar for wood-fired pizza, or explore Wild Thyme Gourmet and The Ugly Dog Public House around downtown.
The Wine Garden at Old Edwards Inn is another option for seasonal outdoor dining. Check current hours, public access, and reservations directly; outdoor dining depends on weather and season.
Local planning information checked October 22, 2026, using Visit Highlands and Old Edwards Inn. Follow the links for current details, conditions, and reservations. Netsi Place is independently operated and is not affiliated with the attractions or businesses in this guide.