Highlands, NC

The quaint town of Highlands, NC is a hidden jewel just 2 hours drive north of Atlanta surrounded by the Nantahala National Forest and situated atop a plateau at elevation 4118 feet.

Experience mother natures’ four seasons, explore scenic drives and hiking trails; stroll beneath Dry Falls, drive under Bridal Veil Falls or view Whitewater Falls – the tallest east of the Rockies at 411 feet. Visit Highlands for the ultimate mountain experience and see why Southern Living chose Highlands a top 5 Small Town Getaway.

Winter in
Highlands, NC

The Our State team produced a nice video showing the magic of Highlands North Carolina during the winter months.

Highlands was founded in 1875 after its two founders, Samuel Truman Kelsey and Clinton Carter Hutchinson, drew lines from Chicago to Savannah and from New Orleans to New York City. They felt that the place where these lines met would eventually become a great trading center and commercial crossroads. Highlands was named for its lofty elevation.

 In the 1930s the town became a golfing mecca when Bobby Jones of Atlanta and some of his well-heeled golfing buddies founded the Highlands Country Club. Today that club is one of seven successful residential country club communities in the area. The Highlands Country Club is south of Highlands on Dillard Road (North Carolina Highway 106).

Where to Eat in
Highlands, NC

Here of some of TripAdvisor's top places to eat in Highlands, NC

Highlands, NC

This matrix of Highlands NC restaurants provides some of the top picks from TripAdvisor.  Be sure to call ahead as last minute issues from COVID could alter hours of operation.



Restaurant
Bkfast
Lunch
Dinner

Ristorante Paoletti 440 Main St Pob 189, Highlands, NC 28741-8447+1 828-526-4906
Open: Daily



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Wolfgang's Restaurant & Wine Bistro 474 Main St, Highlands, NC 28741-8447+1 828-526-3807 Bistro 4;00 Dinner 5:30
Open: Daily, Closed Tuesday



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Lakeside Restaurant 531 Smallwood Ave on Harris Lake, Highlands, NC 28741-8464+1 828-526-9419
Open: Tue - Sat 5:30



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Blue Bike Cafe 423 N. 4th St. at Creekside Village Highlands, NC 28741
Open: Daily

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Madison's 445 Main St Old Edwards Inn and Spa, Highlands, NC 28741-8447+1 828-787-2525
Open: Dialy 11:30- 2

 
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Meritage Bistro 490 Carolina Way, Highlands, NC 28741+1 828-526-1019
Open: Daily, Closed Tuesday 12:00 PM - 2:30 PM 5:30 PM - 8:30 PM
 
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Wild Thyme Gourmet 343-D Main Street, Highlands, NC 28741+1 828-526-4035
Open: Daily, Closed Wed, 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM 5:30 PM - 9:00 PM

 
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Asia House 151 Helens Barn Ave, Highlands, NC 28741-8448+1 828-787-1680
Open Daily: Noon - 9PM

 
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The Ugly Dog Pub-Highlands 294 S 4th St, Highlands, NC 28741-8371+1 828-526-8364
Open: Daily 11:30 AM - 12:00 AM (Mon 4PM-)

 
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On the Veranda Restaurant 1536 Franklin Rd, Highlands, NC 28741-8557+1 828-526-2338
Open Daily: 4PM -9/10PM, Sun 11 - 9PM

   
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Vacation Rentals Highlands NC

These are just 2 samples: find your Highlands, NC vacation rental on HighSouthRentals. com!

highlands nc vacation rentals

Tranquil Studio With Firepit, Canoe, Wooded Lot, Dogs OK, 4 Min To Town

Cozy & Well Appointed. Sleeps 4. Private, Wooded View. Awesome Location. Pets  Cozy & Well Appointed. Sleeps 4. Private, Wooded View. Awesome Location. Pets From $125 [Book Online]

Highlands NC vacation rentals

200 Main

In the city center, 200 Main is in a walkable area within minutes of great shopping and dining. [Book Online]

Weather in Highlands NC

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Things to Do

... in Highlands North Carolina!

The Highlands Biological Station and
The Highlands Nature Center 

 Highlands Nature Center

Highlands Biological Station is a non-profit research organization in Highlands, North Carolina, dedicated to advancing the scientific understanding of the Southern Appalachian region. The Station conducts various research projects in areas such as ecology, conservation, and wildlife biology.

The Highlands Nature Center is an education and outreach program of the Highlands Biological Station. It is a community-based environmental education center that provides educational programs, workshops, and events focused on promoting the appreciation and understanding of the natural history and ecology of the Southern Appalachian region. The center features trails, gardens, and exhibits showcasing the unique flora and fauna of the area.

Sunset Rocks in Highlands, North Carolina

Sunset Rocks
Sunset Rocks in Highlands, North Carolina, offers a breathtaking natural vista that captures the essence of the region's pristine beauty. Perched atop a gentle elevation, this vantage point provides an awe-inspiring panoramic view of the surrounding landscape. As the sun dips below the horizon, the sky transforms into a vivid canvas of warm hues, casting a golden glow upon the rolling hills, verdant forests, and meandering rivers below. A favorite destination for both locals and visitors, Sunset Rocks epitomizes the serene charm of the Highlands, inviting all who venture there to witness nature's enchanting spectacle and create cherished memories amid its tranquil grandeur.

To drive to Sunset Rocks in Highlands, North Carolina, you can follow these general directions:
Start: Begin your journey from your current location or the town of Highlands, NC.
Head West: If you're in Highlands, start by heading west on US-64 W/Main St E toward N 5th St.
Turn Right: Turn right onto Horse Cove Rd, which is also known as NC-106 N.
Continue: Follow Horse Cove Rd/NC-106 N for several miles as it winds through the scenic countryside.
Turn Right: Look for signs indicating the way to Sunset Rocks. You may need to turn right onto a smaller road or trail that leads to the Sunset Rocks viewpoint.
Parking: There might be a designated parking area or a spot where you can safely park your vehicle.
Please note that road conditions and specific directions might vary, so it's a good idea to consult a current map or navigation app for real-time directions. Also, consider checking with local resources or the Highlands visitor center for any updated information, as trails and roads could change over time.

Bull Pen Bridge near Highlands, North Carolina

Bull Pen Bridge
Bull Pen Bridge near Highlands, North Carolina, is a captivating gem nestled within the lush beauty of the Southern Appalachian Mountains. This charming wooden bridge spans over the tranquil waters of the Cullasaja River, offering a serene and picturesque escape for both nature enthusiasts and curious travelers. As sunlight filters through the dense canopy of trees, dappling the water's surface below, the Bull Pen Bridge exudes an air of timeless allure. Its rustic elegance and the soothing sound of flowing water create a harmonious symphony with the surrounding forest, making it a cherished spot for contemplation, photography, and a moment of connection with the natural world. Whether sought after for its scenic allure or the therapeutic ambiance it imparts, Bull Pen Bridge stands as a captivating testament to the serene landscapes that define the Highlands, NC region.

Start: Begin your journey from your current location or from the town of Highlands, NC.
Head South: If you're starting from Highlands, head south on US-64 E/Main St E.
Turn Left: After approximately 4.5 miles, you'll need to turn left onto Bull Pen Rd. There might be signs indicating the way to Bull Pen Bridge.
Follow Bull Pen Rd: Continue along Bull Pen Rd as it winds through the picturesque landscape. You'll likely encounter unpaved sections and scenic views along the way.
Arrive at Bull Pen Bridge: You should eventually arrive at Bull Pen Bridge, where you can park your vehicle and explore the area around the bridge and the Cullasaja River.
Keep in mind that road conditions, landmarks, and specific directions may have changed since my last update. It's a good idea to use a reliable navigation app or map to get real-time directions and to inquire about the most accurate route from local sources or the Highlands visitor center.

Rabun Bald

Rabun Bald is located in Georgia, near the border with North Carolina, and offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding area. To drive to Rabun Bald from Highlands, North Carolina, you can follow these general directions:

Start: Begin your journey from your current location or from Highlands, NC.
Head South: Drive south on US-64 E/Main St E and cross into Georgia.
Turn Left: In Clayton, Georgia, turn left onto US-23 S/US-441 S.
Continue South: Stay on US-23 S/US-441 S as it passes through Dillard and heads further south.
Turn Left onto Kelsey Mountain Road: Look for the turn onto Kelsey Mountain Road (also known as Forest Service Road 7), which will lead you toward Rabun Bald.
Follow the Road: Kelsey Mountain Road is a gravel road that will take you closer to Rabun Bald. The road can be steep and winding, so drive carefully.
Park and Hike: At a certain point, you might reach a parking area where you can leave your vehicle. From there, you'll need to hike to the summit of Rabun Bald. The trail is well-marked and offers a moderately challenging but rewarding hike.

 Attribution / Content Courtesy of:

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2. Top Content: Highlands Chamber of Commerce

3. Bottom Content: WikiPedia

4. Events: Highlands Chamber of Commerce

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