Carlyle & Ryan

October 18–19, 2024 • Highlands, NC, USA

Carlyle & Ryan

October 18–19, 2024 • Highlands, NC, USA

Things to Do

*Note: We recommend booking reservations asap as it's a small town and things book up quick in October!

Dry Falls

Picture of Dry Falls
US-64, Highlands, NC 28741, USA

Dry Falls, a popular waterfall located a few miles outside of Highlands gives you the rare treat of walking safely behind a waterfall. This 75-ft. tall waterfall in the Nantahala National Forest flows over a cliff, allowing you to walk behind the falls and stay dry (hence the name). During rainy spells when the water volume is higher, the spray will prevent you from staying totally dry.

Whiteside Mtn Trail

Picture of Whiteside Mtn Trail
Parking lot, 91-170 Deville Dr, Highlands, NC 28741, USA

Our favorite hike in Highlands, NC! Whiteside Mountain. Boasting the highest cliffs in Eastern North America, this 4,930 ft beauty is a magnificent site to see. It is also easily accessed via a 2 mile loop trail that takes you to the top of Whiteside Mountain right above sheer 750ft cliffs for spectacular views to the East, South and West.

where to eat/drink:

Old Edwards Inn and Spa

Picture of Old Edwards Inn and Spa
445 Main St, Highlands, NC 28741, USA
(866) 526-8008

Visit The Hummingbird Lounge at Old Edwards in Highlands for hand-crafted cocktails, premium wine and beer, light fare and live music in the relaxed and refined atmosphere or grab a delicious lunch at Madison's restaurant at the hotel.

Four65 Woodfire Bistro + Bar

Picture of Four65 Woodfire Bistro + Bar
465 Main St Box 2130, Highlands, NC 28741, USA
(828) 787-2990

Our favorite more casual spot for lunch and dinner! Four65 Bistro handcrafts wood-fired pizzas, cast-iron sandwiches, and fresh salads using ingredients from our own gardens, local growers and purveyors.

Ristorante Paoletti

Picture of Ristorante Paoletti
440 Main St, Highlands, NC 28741, USA
(828) 526-4906

Our favorite upscale spot for dinner! A traditional Italian restaurant located in central Highlands, New Carolina. Taste the difference with the Paoletti family recipes perfected over decades.

Canyon Kitchen

150 Lonesome Valley Rd, Sapphire, NC 28774, USA
(828) 743-7967

One of our very favorite upscale dinner spots in the entire area! It's really hard to get a reservation here so I would recommend reserving your table early. Get here before dark as the restaurant is in the valley of a canyon and the views are literally breathtaking especially at sunset!


Upscale restaurant serving sophisticated Appalachian-style cuisine in a rustic-chic atmosphere.

Oak Steakhouse

470 Skyline Lodge Rd, Highlands, NC 28741, USA
(828) 482-4720

We LOVE this spot for a nice dinner. One of our faves! Oak Steakhouse Highlands continues the legacy of the original Oak Steakhouse in Charleston, SC, with a modern take on the classic steakhouse at Skyline Lodge.

On The Verandah

1536 Franklin Rd, Highlands, NC 28741, USA
(828) 526-2338

A delicious, upscale dinner spot in Highlands. Enjoy your meal and the view at On The Verandah. An international cuisine and seafood restaurant with a focus on mixing new, exciting flavors with classic favorites.

The Ugly Dog Public House- Highlands and Cashiers

294 S 4th St, Highlands, NC 28741, USA
(828) 526-8364

Locations both in Cashiers and Highlands. Low key and casual vibes. Great for a quick bite to eat. Crafted cocktails, regional beers and elevated pub food served at a cozy, classic pub.

The Orchard Restaurant, Events Barn & Guest Cottage

905 State Rte 107, Cashiers, NC 28717, USA
(828) 743-7614

If you're staying in Cashiers / Sapphire this one is for you! A popular destination since 2000, The Orchard promises to provide you the highest quality seasonal dishes using the finest ingredients available. The extensive menu consists of American Cuisine with a Southern flavor.

Micas Restaurant and Pub

25 Logan Crk Trl, Sapphire, NC 28774, USA
(828) 743-5740

If you're staying in Cashiers / Sapphire this one is for you! Homey tavern offering basic American eats, plus an open, covered patio with a fire pit.

Bucks Coffee Cafe of Cashiers

6 State Rte 107, Cashiers, NC 28717, USA
(828) 743-9997

Our favorite coffee shop in Cashiers!

Calders Coffee Cafe

384 Main St, Highlands, NC 28741, USA
(828) 200-9308

Our favorite coffee shop in Highlands!