Hidden at 4,118 feet, this North Carolina town has waterfalls, luxury spas, and gourmet dining

Highlands, North Carolina

Tucked away in the southwestern corner of North Carolina, Highlands is a small mountain town that’s a literal hidden gem. It’s over 4,100 feet above sea level, higher than most towns east of the Mississippi.

Founded in 1875, this charming place was named because its founders believed it would become a crossroads between Chicago, New Orleans, and other major cities.

That vision didn’t quite pan out, but what developed instead is something even better: a peaceful mountain retreat with incredible natural beauty, surprising sophistication, and genuine small-town warmth.

If you’re still looking for a summer getaway, here’s why Highlands, North Carolina should be top of your list.

Waterfalls You Can Actually Get To

You don’t need to hike for hours to see amazing waterfalls here. Dry Falls lets you walk behind a massive waterfall without getting soaked. Bridal Veil Falls is right next to the road and you can literally drive behind it when the road is open.

Glen Falls has three different sections to explore on one trail. Locals might tell you about Secret Falls if they trust you, and it has a perfect swimming spot that’s worth finding.

Fancy Food in a Tiny Town

For a place with barely 1,100 year-round residents, the food scene is shockingly good. Ristorante Paoletti has been serving authentic Italian food for over 60 years, and the eggplant lasagna is amazing. The seafood at Highlands is exceptional and tastes even better when you enjoy it near the water at local favorite Lakeside Restaurant.

The Log Cabin cooks mountain trout five different ways that’ll make you rethink fish, while Madison’s Restaurant serves farm-fresh meals with wine that’s won awards for decades.

An Ancient Rainforest in North Carolina

Most people don’t know Highlands sits in one of North America’s only temperate rainforests. It gets over 80 inches of rain yearly, creating a wonderland of moss, ferns, and plants you won’t find elsewhere.

The Highlands Botanical Garden shows off 500+ native plants, including the rare Oconee Bells that bloom in early spring and almost went extinct before being rediscovered.

Main Street Shopping That’s Actually Fun

Main Street isn’t filled with boring tourist traps. The Highlands’ Newspapers Archive sells framed front pages dating back to the 1880s, which make for perfect unusual souvenirs. Highland Hiker carries gear picked specifically for local trails. Kilwin’s makes fudge using a recipe that’s older than your grandparents. Acorns Boutique mixes handmade mountain crafts with fancy brands you’d expect in bigger cities.

Healing Spas That Use Mountain Magic

The natural spring water here makes spa treatments extra special. Old Edwards Inn Spa uses local plants in their treatments, including a scrub made from rhododendrons.

The Secret Garden Spa knows exactly how to treat skin affected by mountain air. Highland Therapeutic Massage has a room with glass walls facing the forest, which is possibly the most relaxing view ever during a massage.

Hikes for Everyone (Really, Everyone)

Not a serious hiker? No problem. Whiteside Mountain Trail (2 miles) gives you incredible views of 750-foot cliffs where falcons nest. Secret Falls Trail (1.5 miles) leads to a hidden waterfall perfect for summer swimming.

For the ambitious, Yellow Mountain Trail (9.8 miles) is challenging but worth it. And Sunset Rock is just a half-mile from downtown with views that explain its name.

Art That Goes Beyond Gift Shops

The Bascom art center is housed in a converted horse farm and shows work from serious artists. For shows, the Highlands Playhouse has put on professional summer theater since 1938. Friday Night Live concerts feature mountain music in the park and local galleries showcase pottery, weaving, and woodworking that continues traditions passed down for generations.

Golf Courses With Drop-Dead Views

Golf is different up here. Highlands Country Club’s course was designed by famous architect Donald Ross in 1928 and has dramatic ups and downs.

Old Edwards Club sits at 4,500 feet with views that’ll distract you from your swing. Wildcat Cliffs requires precise shots around natural rock formations. All three stay cooler in summer than courses down in the flatlands.

Scientists Doing Cool Stuff in the Woods

The Highlands Biological Station isn’t just for researchers because they welcome visitors too.

Their “Science Thursdays” let you meet scientists studying everything from salamanders (there are more types here than anywhere else in the world) to how climate change affects mountain plants and animals. Their little museum has fascinating specimens they’ve collected since 1927.

Visiting Highlands, North Carolina

You’ll find Highlands about 2 hours from Asheville, Atlanta, or Greenville. Most visitors drive, as the nearest airports require a rental car anyway.

Book accommodations well ahead, and your options range from luxury stays at Old Edwards Inn to cozy mountain cabins and vacation rentals. Summer and fall weekends fill quickly.

Main Street is walkable, but you’ll want a car to explore waterfalls and hiking trails beyond town.