From Highlands early days as a serene summer retreat to its vibrant present, the town’s heritage is beautifully preserved and waiting to be explored. Every street, building, and vista tells a story, inviting visitors to step back in time while enjoying modern comfort and mountain elegance.
Highlands Historical Society & Historic Village
Begin your exploration at the Highlands Historical Society's Historic Village at 524 N. 4th Street. This charming complex includes:
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The Prince House: The oldest existing home in Highlands, dating back to the late 19th century.
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Highlands Historical Museum and Archives: Featuring exhibits such as Moonshining in the Mountains and The Mountain Music of Highlands, offering insight into the region’s cultural heritage.
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Highlands Sanatorium Tent (Bug Hill Cottage): A unique open-air structure which housed patients in recovery, reflecting the town’s early medical history.
Historic Buildings Audio Tour
In celebration of Highlands 150th Anniversary, The Highlands Historical Society has unveiled the Historic Buildings Audio Tour of 17 of the most important buildings in Highlands’ history. Bring your smart phone to scan the QR Code on the plaques found at each location to learn about the original owners of these historic sites and what has made each such an integral part of Highlands' history.
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The Highlander Mountain House: A beautifully preserved landmark, once known as the Boynton-Norton Home, was built in 1881 and now stands as a popular boutique hotel complete with a chic English-pub style Tavern.
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Old Edwards Inn: This elegant luxury hotel was once a single-story shop known as The Rock Store, built in 1889, which sold common goods and general merchandise to town citizens.
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First Presbyterian Church: Built in 1885 for a cost of $3,000, this landmark stands as a testament to the community’s faith and architectural style.
George Masa & "A Celebration of Place"
Explore the vision and artistry of George Masa, the Japanese-American photographer whose work in the 1920s captured the Southern Appalachians and helped shape the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
On September 13, 2025, the Highlands Biological Station hosts A Celebration of Place, a special day honoring Masa and the region’s natural heritage. Visitors can enjoy guided garden tours, a rare and unusual native plant sale, presentations by local experts, and a book signing reception, all amid the Highlands Botanical Gardens. This immersive event offers a unique opportunity to connect history, art, and nature in one unforgettable experience.
Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust
Learn about the Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust, North Carolina’s oldest land trust, which was founded in 1909. The organization has safeguarded the region’s historic landscapes and natural beauty for over a century, preserving the essence of the Southern Appalachians for generations of visitors and residents alike.
The summit of Satulah Mountain was the first property purchased by the Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust, back when the organization was known as the "Highlands Improvement Association". This public trail leads hikers through an old growth meadow of mountain laurels before unveiling remarkable views of Blue Valley and South Carolina. Learn more about other historically signficant conserved properties and public trails on the Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust's website.
Highlands invites you to wander its streets, explore its preserved heritage, and immerse yourself in a mountain town where history, culture, and natural beauty intertwine. Whether you’re a dedicated history enthusiast or a curious traveler, Highlands offers a uniquely enriching escape.