Family Fun in Highlands, NC: A Trip Planning Guide

Looking for a perfect family getaway that blends natural beauty, fun activities, and free adventures? Highlands, North Carolina, is a charming mountain town offering everything from hikes to scenic waterfalls and great shopping. Our family recently spent a few days here, and it’s now at the top of our list for family-friendly destinations. Here’s a guide to help you plan your own Highlands adventure.

Morning Coffee & Treats

We started our days at Caulder’s Coffee, a cozy spot perfect for parents to fuel up on caffeine before heading out for the day. Grab a latte (or iced vanilla latte, heavy on the vanilla) and let the kids enjoy breakfast while you map out your itinerary. This local coffee shop has a welcoming vibe, making it the ideal pit stop before a day full of exploration.

Next up: a little treat. Head over to Kilwins for some of the best ice cream and chocolates! Whether your kids love chocolatey creations or refreshing sorbets, Kilwins has something for everyone. Nothing beats strolling through downtown Highlands with an ice cream cone in hand! We love doing this at the end of the day, after burning some calories in advance, on our hikes! It’s a great place to find a sweet gift for a loved one.

Outdoor Adventures: Hikes & Waterfalls

Highlands is known for its breathtaking scenery, and hiking is one of our favorite family activities. There are tons of trails suited for families with young children, and one of the best parts is that many are free to access.

The Bascom Art Center and Storybook Nature Trail

The Bascom Art Center is an unexpected gem, with an outdoor trail perfect for a mini adventure. We took a kiddie hike on their storybook trail, perfect for little legs but still packed with fun activities along the way.

Dry Falls: Our Favorite Highlands Walk-Through Waterfall

For a real nature experience, Dry Falls is a must-see. Located less than 10 minutes from the town of Highlands, this waterfall is easy to reach and incredibly family-friendly. You can walk right under the falls without getting soaked! It’s the kind of experience that wows both kids and adults. The path is well-maintained and safe with steps and guardrails, making it great for all ages.

Sunset Rock: A Quick Hike with Stunning Views

Just a half-mile from downtown Highlands, Sunset Rock offers one of the most spectacular views in the area. It’s a short, .5-mile hike up a gravel path, making it perfect for families with kids. The trail is manageable, even for little ones, and the payoff at the top is more than worth it. Once you reach the summit, you’ll find yourself on a massive rock with panoramic views of the rolling landscape. It’s an ideal spot for a picnic or just to relax and take in the scenery.

This is also a great spot to catch a sunset (hence the name!) as the view of the sun dipping below the horizon is absolutely breathtaking. Pack some snacks, bring a blanket, and enjoy the show. Just be sure to head down the mountain with at least 20 minutes to spare before dark. And be on the lookout for bears along the way!

Whitewater Falls: A Worthwhile Drive to the Tallest Waterfall

If your family is up for a short road trip, make the 45-minute drive to Whitewater Falls, the tallest waterfall east of the Rockies. The falls plunge an astonishing 411 feet, and the sight is nothing short of awe-inspiring. While it’s not a long hike, the path to the observation deck includes several staircases. So while you won’t be walking far, you’ll get a workout on the way down and back up!

Despite the stairs, the view is well worth the effort. Your family will love the feeling of standing so close to such a powerful natural wonder. The observation deck provides a safe and stunning vantage point, perfect for taking photos and soaking in the beauty of the falls.

Scenic Overlooks on the drive in

To add to the list of beautiful, free sights to see, be sure to stop at one of the overlooks on the drive into Highlands on Dillard road. The Scaly Mountain views are unbeatable and it’s worth stopping for the photo opp!

Shopping Downtown

After some time in nature, we usually head back to town for a little shopping. Highlands has a charming downtown area with local shops offering unique finds, from clothing to home decor. It’s the perfect way to wind down the day while supporting small businesses.

Some of my favorite places to stop in are Dutchman’s for the prettiest home decor, Highlands Kids for fun toys and kid’s clothes, and TJ Bailey’s upstairs for menswear (the upstairs has all the sale items for deep discounts!).

Why Highlands is Perfect for Families

What makes Highlands such a great destination is the balance of outdoor beauty, family-friendly activities, and laid-back small-town charm. Whether your family loves hiking, indulging in sweets, or just spending time together in a beautiful setting, Highlands has something for everyone. With so many free activities, it’s an affordable getaway that doesn’t skimp on fun.

So pack up your hiking boots, grab the stroller, and head to Highlands for a trip your family will love!

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