Highlands, NC

Travel Guide

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 wooden deck with two chairs and a table, overlooking a mountainous landscape with trees and a view of the sky.
A beach with a calm sea, distant mountains, and a cloudy sky.
Two people sitting on red chairs facing each other with a mountainous landscape in the background.

Where to stay in Highlands

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

Downtown Highlands

While there might not be top attractions in Downtown Highlands, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Highlands Playhouse and Cullasaja River Gorge.

A calm lake reflecting autumn trees and a clear sky.

Mirror Lake

While there might not be top attractions in Mirror Lake, you can explore the larger area and discover places like The Bascom Center for the Visual Arts and Cullasaja River Gorge.

A mountainous landscape with dense forests and a prominent cliff on the right.

Highlands Hills

While there might not be top attractions in Highlands Hills, you can explore the larger area and discover places 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 Highlands Biological Station 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 isn't home to many top sights, Bridal Veil Falls and Dry Falls are some notable places to visit nearby.

Trailborn Highlands, Outdoor Collection by Marriott Bonvoy

Trailborn Highlands, Outdoor Collection by Marriott Bonvoy

4 out of 5
96 Log Cabin Lane Highlands NC
$169 nightly
The price is $185 total per night from Nov 15 to Nov 16
$185 total
Nov 15 - Nov 16
Total with taxes and fees
Stay at this hotel in Highlands. Enjoy free parking, a 24-hour front desk, and daily housekeeping. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (365 reviews)
"Great location!"

Reviewed on Oct 17, 2026

Trailborn Highlands, Outdoor Collection by Marriott Bonvoy
The Skyline Lodge

The Skyline Lodge

2 out of 5
470 Skyline Lodge Road Highlands NC
$280 nightly
The price is $307 total per night from Nov 1 to Nov 2
$307 total
Nov 1 - Nov 2
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Highlands. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a conference center. Popular attractions Bridal Veil Falls and Cliffside ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (128 reviews)
"Always a pleasure staying here, nice rooms and a huge plus to have the Oak Restaurant on-site! A big shout out to the great bartenders! All the staff was amazing! I highly recommend this place, we will be back for our third time here!"

Reviewed on Oct 20, 2026

The Skyline Lodge
Outpost Inn

Outpost Inn

3 out of 5
790 North 4th St Highlands NC
$250 nightly
The price is $275 total per night from Nov 4 to Nov 5
$275 total
Nov 4 - Nov 5
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this boutique guesthouse in Highlands. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a garden. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms in ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (335 reviews)
"Absolutely wonderful stay! Such a vibe! Friendly and helpful staff. This quaint mountain retreat is full of thoughtful details that make it feel cozy, almost like home. You can get wine in the lobby or bring your own. They even thought to include a wine opener in your room. Having a fireplace right ..."

Reviewed on Oct 19, 2026

Outpost Inn
See all 1,366 properties in Highlands
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Tripps Cabin- Quaint cabin a mile from downtown Highlands!

Tripps Cabin- Quaint cabin a mile from downtown Highlands!

Highlands NC
Stay at this cabin in Highlands. Enjoy laundry facilities, balconies, and an in-room coffeemaker. Popular attractions The Bascom Center for the Visual Arts and ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (32 reviews)
"This was just what we were looking for- a cabin in the mountains!!!! It is a beautiful, rustic cabin that brought back many memories!! We enjoyed every minute!!! I wish we could have stayed longer. MA Duke"

Reviewed on Oct 14, 2026

Tripps Cabin- Quaint cabin a mile from downtown Highlands!
River Love 💙 Tiny Adventure *Highlands Cullasaja River Gorge same day bookings

River Love 💙 Tiny Adventure *Highlands Cullasaja River Gorge same day bookings

Highlands NC
Stay at this vacation home in Highlands. Enjoy free WiFi, a fitness center, and a garden. Popular attractions Cullasaja Falls and Jackson Hole Gem Mine are located ...
9.8/10 Exceptional! (28 reviews)
"very accommodating"

Reviewed on Aug 28, 2026

River Love 💙 Tiny Adventure *Highlands Cullasaja River Gorge same day bookings
2 Living Areas + Fireplace: Mirror Lake Cottage!

2 Living Areas + Fireplace: Mirror Lake Cottage!

Highlands NC
Stay at this cottage in Highlands. Enjoy laundry facilities, concierge services, and furnished lanais. Popular attractions The Bascom Center for the Visual Arts ...
10/10 Exceptional! (92 reviews)
"3 bedrooms but every one has only full size beds, not even queens as you would expect for this price.Outside patio is very nice, with waterfall system. However parts not covered get slippery when damp due to mold.Kitchen is great!Tv do not have hi def cable so picture is poor."

Reviewed on Sep 22, 2026

2 Living Areas + Fireplace: Mirror Lake Cottage!
See all properties in Highlands
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Stay near popular Highlands attractions

A waterfall cascading down a rocky cliff surrounded by lush greenery. A wooden walkway with a railing runs alongside the water.
Photo by Pon Xayavong Photography
Open Photo by Pon Xayavong Photography

Dry Falls

9.6/10 (129 reviews)
Explore the great outdoors at Dry Falls and enjoy the mountain views during your trip to Highlands. Discover the area's entertainment venues, or seek out its hiking trails.
See properties

Things to do

Carolina Waterfalls and Highlands Private VIP Boutique Tour

Carolina Waterfalls and Highlands Private VIP Boutique Tour

$275
per adult
Carolina Waterfalls and Highlands Private VIP Boutique Tour
See all activities in Highlands

Frequently asked questions

Is Highlands worth visiting?
Highlands is worth visiting for its natural beauty, featuring impressive sights like Dry Falls and Bridal Veil Falls. Travelers can also explore a diverse culinary scene, with options ranging from classic North American dishes to authentic Italian cuisine.
When is the best time to visit Highlands?
The best time to visit Highlands is from May through September, when the climate is most favorable for exploring. For fewer crowds and better value, the quieter months of November through February are a good option, offering a different, more serene experience.
What is Highlands known for?
Highlands is known for its beautiful natural landscapes, featuring waterfalls like Dry Falls and Bridal Veil Falls. Travelers can also enjoy the amenities at Highlands Country Club, and the area offers a North American food culture.
What is a good itinerary length for Highlands?
A good itinerary length for Highlands is two to three days to explore natural highlights like Dry Falls and Bridal Veil Falls. An extended stay of four to five days allows more time to enjoy the Highlands Country Club or take a Carolina Waterfalls and Highlands Private VIP Boutique Tour. See Highlands Activities.
What are the top things to do in and around Highlands?
Highlands offers beautiful natural sights and unique experiences for travelers:


How do I plan a trip to Highlands?
To plan your trip to Highlands, search for places to stay and book flights in advance. Consider booking the Carolina Waterfalls and Highlands Private VIP Boutique Tour to see Dry Falls and Bridal Veil Falls. Remember to pair outdoor plans, like visiting these waterfalls or Highlands Country Club, with indoor backups for weather flexibility.
What cuisines can you find in Highlands?
In Highlands, you can find New American cuisine, offering dishes like gourmet burgers, grilled sandwiches, and fresh salads. Travelers can also enjoy Italian favorites such as pasta and pizza, Mexican options like tacos and burritos, and various Asian dishes.
Can I book a refundable hotel in Highlands?
Yes, Expedia offers many flexible booking options, and you can look for refundable hotels in Highlands by entering your dates and using the refundable or fully refundable filter. Always check the hotel's cancellation policy before you book, since terms can vary by hotel, and visit Expedia help center for further details.
Why book a trip to Highlands with Expedia?
Expedia makes it easier to plan your Highlands trip with travel tools, flexible search options, and bookable trip components all in one place. You can organize your plans in one account and use Expedia to help build a trip that fits your budget and travel style. Find out more about how by visiting Expedia's Trip Planner page.
Should I stay in a hotel or vacation rental in Highlands?
The best choice depends on your travel style. Hotels in Highlands can be a good fit for convenience, on-site amenities, and shorter stays, while vacation rentals may offer more space, privacy, and home-style amenities for longer trips, families, or groups. With Expedia, you can compare both options side by side, read traveler reviews, and filter by amenities to find the right fit for your trip.
How can I manage my Highlands trip on Expedia?
Once you've booked your Highlands trip, you can manage it through your Expedia account or the Expedia app. You can view your itinerary, access booking details, make eligible changes, and check for updates in My Trips. The Expedia app can also help you stay organized while you travel.
What if I need help during my Highlands trip?
Expedia offers customer support before, during, and after your Highlands trip. If your plans change or something unexpected happens, you can review your booking in My Trips and use Expedia help center channels for help with eligible changes, cancellations, or travel issues.
How can Expedia help me plan my first trip to Highlands?
If it's your first trip to Highlands, Expedia can help you plan by bringing together stays, flights, activities, traveler reviews, and trip-planning tools in one place. With Expedia's Trip Planner you can compare options, read reviews from other travelers, and build an itinerary that matches your interests and budget.
How can I save on my Highlands hotel booking with Expedia?
Join One Key™ for free to unlock instant discounts with Member Prices on select hotels. You can also earn and use OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings on Expedia. Booking in advance is usually another great way to save on your Highlands hotel.

*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.

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