Things To Do

HIKING

Whiteside Mountain

One of the most popular hikes in Highlands, Whiteside Mountain is a 2-mile loop with panoramic views. It's definitely a must-do during your time in Highlands!

Glen Falls

A 10-minute drive from downtown Highlands, Glen Falls is a moderate 2.6-mile hike to a beautiful waterfall.

Dry Falls

Dry Falls is a unique 0.5-mile trail that runs behind a waterfall. The path is mostly paved and has handrails, but there are a lot of stairs. It is a 10-minute drive from downtown Highlands.

DINING

The Ruffed Grouse

The Ruffed Grouse is a charming farm-to-table restaurant inside the Highlander Mountain House. It is great for brunch, lunch, dinner, and drinks. Reservations are recommended.

On The Verandah

On The Verandah is a fine dining restaurant with international cuisine, seafood, and a focus on locally sourced ingredients. Great for a nice dinner on the porch, which overlooks Lake Sequoyah. Highly recommend the Spicy Thai Coconut Shrimp! Reservations are also recommended.

Oak Steakhouse

Located at Skyline Lodge and on a mountain top, Oak Steakhouse is a great option for dinner. Don't skip their bread service! Reservations are recommended.

Four65 Woodfire Bistro

Owned by Old Edwards, Four65 is a fabulous upscale woodfire pizza restaurant. Sit on the patio if you can! They do not take reservations, so go early to put your name on the waitlist.

Highlands Tavern

Highlands Tavern uses local ingredients in all of its unique dishes and is a great dinner option. It is a favorite of Logan's parents! They do not take reservations, so we recommend arriving early.

The Wine Garden

The Wine Garden (part of Old Edward's Madison's Restaurant) is an idyllic al fresco spot for lunch, dinner, glass of wine, or appetizer. They do not take reservations, so put your name on the waitlist and walk around downtown while you wait!

Highlands Wine Shoppe

Sit on their front patio under the trees and enjoy a glass of wine!

The Ugly Dog

A local favorite! Casual pub with great food, drinks, and live music. They do not take reservations, so grab a drink at the bar while you wait.

Mountain Fresh Grocery

Local grocery store with great paninis (and yummy homemade chips!), hamburgers, pizza, salads, breakfast, and coffee. Right across the street from where our wedding will be!

Wild Thyme Gourmet

Great option for lunch. Make sure to get their butterscotch pudding for dessert! Reservations are recommended.

Blue Bike Cafe

Casual breakfast and lunch spot, right off downtown Highlands. They do not take reservations and are closed on Sundays.

Calders Coffee Cafe

Great spot for coffee, bagels, breakfast sandwiches, and pastries.

SHOPPING

Wit's End

Wit's End is one of our favorite ladies' clothing stores. Mention you're with our wedding to get 10% off your purchase!

Highland Hiker

Highland Hiker is the go-to spot for mountain clothing and outdoor gear. The flagship location is tucked away in a log cabin on Main Street (near Mountain Fresh Grocery and the Church of the Incarnation). They also have two other stores next door: Highland Hiker Shoes and The Hiker on Main.

ckSWAN

Great place to shop for home goods, art, gifts, jewelry, & kids. Right off Main Street.

The Bascom: Center for the Visual Arts

The Bascom is a beautiful visual arts center just a short walk from downtown Highlands. Located in a renovated barn, you can shop for locally made pottery or take your own pottery class!

Vivace

Vivace is an upscale women's boutique in downtown Highlands. They also have a location in Cashiers.

TJ Bailey's

TJ Bailey's is a great men's clothing store with brands such as Peter Millar, Brackish, and Barbour. They also have a location in Cashiers.