Things to do in Highlands

Activities, attractions and tours

A mountainous landscape with dense forests, a valley, and distant mountains under a cloudy sky.
A calm river with a waterfall, surrounded by dense forest and houses on the opposite bank.
A beach with a calm sea, distant mountains, and a cloudy sky.
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ranger falls, Highlands, NC

Things to do

Carolina Waterfalls and Highlands Private VIP Boutique Tour

Carolina Waterfalls and Highlands Private VIP Boutique Tour

€237
per adult
Carolina Waterfalls and Highlands Private VIP Boutique Tour
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What to do in Highlands

Stay near popular Highlands attractions

A waterfall cascading over a rocky cliff surrounded by dense foliage.
Photo by Kurt Huey
Open Photo by Kurt Huey

Dry Falls

9.6/10 (129 reviews)
Walk behind the 75-foot waterfall at Dry Falls without getting wet, a rare natural phenomenon. The short paved trail leads to an immersive experience where cascading water frames your view of the lush forest.
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Where to stay in Highlands

Find the best Highlands areas for the activities you enjoy most.
A town nestled in a valley with a lake, surrounded by mountains.

Downtown Highlands

When in Downtown Highlands, you can plan a visit to The Bascom Center for the Visual Arts and Bridal Veil Falls, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

A calm lake reflecting autumn trees and a clear sky.

Mirror Lake

While Mirror Lake may not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like The Bascom Center for the Visual Arts and Bridal Veil Falls.

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Highlands Hills

Though Highlands Hills may not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Bridal Veil Falls and The Bascom Center for the Visual Arts.

A multi-tiered waterfall surrounded by dense green foliage.

Highlands Falls

Highlands Falls might not have many top sights, but Whiteside Mountain and The Bascom Center for the Visual Arts are two attractions nearby that you can check out.

A calm river with a waterfall, surrounded by dense forest and houses on the opposite bank.

Lake Sequoyah

While Lake Sequoyah may not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Bridal Veil Falls and Dry Falls.

A calm lake reflecting autumn trees.

Mountain Rest

Frequently asked questions

Is Highlands worth visiting?
One of the most popular things to do in Highlands is explore Bridal Veil Falls. Check this leading sight off your agenda, then discover more of this area's golfing and walking trails.
How do I spend a day in Highlands?
Begin your day with a visit to Bridal Veil Falls and Cullasaja Falls. Then, check out other areas of Highlands for tasty eats and some shopping.
What is the top tourist attraction in Highlands?
The top tourist attraction in Highlands is Bridal Veil Falls, so don't forget to include it on your sightseeing agenda.
Is three days enough to stay in Highlands?
Three days will be enough time to tick off many city highlights, like Bridal Veil Falls, Cullasaja Falls and Glen Falls. The average stay in Highlands is three days. If you feel the urge to extend your trip, Cherokee isn't far away.
Is Highlands a walkable city?
Some top sights in Highlands, such as Bridal Veil Falls and Glen Falls, are within walking distance. You can also discover several of the city's neighbourhoods on foot. Just 2 kilometres from central Highlands is Mirror Lake and Highlands Hills is 2 kilometres away.
What are some activities to do in Highlands with kids?
If you are after activities and attractions for all ages, check out these fantastic ideas for what to do in Highlands with kids.

What to do in Highlands for adults?
Adults of all ages will have lots of things to do in Highlands. Whether you're into art, history, outdoor adventures or just love exploring new places, there's something here for everyone.
Are there free things to do in Highlands?
One of the easiest ways to find free things to do in Highlands is to chat to a local tour guide. You'll get insider tips on cool neighbourhoods, parks and other highlights you can visit without reaching into your pocket. Whiteside Mountain is one place that doesn't charge an entrance fee.