our guide of things to do for a long weekend getaway in highlands, NC
Want Elevate’s trade secrets on how to make the most of a long-weekend trip to Highlands, NC? We have years of experience under our belts and an immense pride in our local businesses. These are our recommendations of things to do in the area for a quick vacation to Highlands, NC.
Friday:
- Indulge in a hearty breakfast al fresco at the Blue Bike Cafe- order a biscuit with housemaid jam- they are just divine.
- No trip to Highlands is complete without a traipse in nature. Trek over to Whiteside Mountain for our most well-known hike with a view. This trail takes about an hour and offers some of the most splendid panoramic views in our area. Don’t forget to snap a few photos up top.
- Continue on over to Cashiers where you can reward yourself with a cold brew and get in some people-watching at family/pet-friendly Whiteside Brewing Co.
- After a quick spiff up, enjoy dinner at The Primary or snag a patio table at Wild Thyme (advance reservations highly suggested). Afterwards you are primely situated to enjoy some after dinner entertainment.
- Stash our lawn chairs in your car to sit back and take in some local mountain bluegrass. Music In The Square is put on by the Highlands Chamber of Commerce every Friday May-October from 6-8pm in the square by Kilwins. Enjoy a cone of your favorite flavor- if you’re this close, it’s wrong not to.
Saturday:
- A morning hike up Sunset Rock starts any day off right. Swing by the Highlands Biological Station afterwards to soak in their wealth of knowledge on our extensive native mountain botany.
- From there, take a stroll along the Highlands Greenway. Maps and some first-class shopping can be found at Highland Hiker.
- Worked up an appetite? Make your way to The Wine Garden at Old Edwards Inn for a gourmet lunch al fresco. We suggest the charcuterie board- it’s always a well-thought out culinary delight.
- Not to be missed is our first-rate shopping in downtown Highlands. From high-end stores like Rosenthals and CK Swann to Bear Mountain Outfitters and Highlands Mercantile, our downtown has something for every shopper and budget.
- After a short rest from the long day, grab those lawn chairs and some grab-n-go from Dusty’s Suprette or The Secret Garden and post up at Kelsey-Hutchinson Park for more live music put on by the Chamber of Commerce.
Sunday:
- Assuredly tired from your action-packed weekend, we can’t send our renters home until they’ve been rejuvenated. A day spent at The Spa at Old Edwards will do just the trick. Plan enough time for lunch and rose at The Spa Cafe and be sure to use of the spa facilities before and after your treatment.
- Those who still haven’t had enough action, tee off and shoot 18 holes at Sky Valley Country Club, one of the few public courses in the area.
- Afterwards, refresh with a juice from Nectar Juice Bar. The Orchard is our favorite and is sure to leave guests feeling their best.
- Feeling foodie? Enjoy the culinary delight of Highlands Tavern or Four65 Bistro , both of which are first-come first-serve so go early and put your name on the list.
- Those who have not witnessed the Broadway-quality level of talent at the state of the art Highlands Performing Art Center are absolutely missing out. Go- you will thank us!
If you’re still not ready for the night to end, stumble on over The High Dive for some drinks and darts until midnight.
There are endless things to do in Highlands, North Carolina for an extended stay. Our suggestions will allow guests to experience all Highlands has to offer in enough time to get back to reality. At Elevate, we are not just here to provide a luxury vacation rental, we provide an experience. Let us answer your questions and share our expertise with you on your next Highlands getaway.