We're so excited you'll be joining us in beautiful Highlands, North Carolina! Tucked away in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Highlands is full of charming shops, incredible scenery, and more waterfalls than you can imagine.

Fun fact: Highlands is one of the few temperate rainforests in North America, receiving over 80 inches of rain each year. That's what keeps the forests so lush and mossy. It's also part of the Salamander Capital of the World, with more species of salamanders than almost anywhere else on the planet. (Cass is much more excited about this fact than Matt.) Below are some of our favorite spots. Have so much fun!

Like we said, there are tons of hikes and waterfalls to choose from. You really can't go wrong with any of these:

• Whiteside Mountain – An easy-to-moderate 2-mile loop with breathtaking cliffside views. The towering 750-foot cliffs are estimated to be between 390 and 460 million years old.

• Glenn Falls – A beautiful series of cascading waterfalls tucked into the forest.

• Sunset Rock – An easy 0.6-mile walk leads to one of the best panoramic views in Highlands.

• Whitewater Falls – The highest waterfall east of the Rockies, plunging an incredible 811 feet.

• Dry Falls – One of the area's most iconic waterfalls. A short, paved trail lets you safely walk behind the 75-foot cascade.

• Bridal Veil Falls – A roadside waterfall you can drive right up to (or even under!). We felt obligated to recommend this one in honor of the bride. 😉

• Highlands Biological Station – If you're looking for more of a peaceful nature walk than a hike, this is a beautiful option. Bonus points if you report back to Cassidy with how many different kinds of moss you spotted. 🌱

A few places we'd happily visit again:

• Blue Bike Café – Our go-to for a classic, no-frills breakfast before a day of exploring.

• The Wine Garden – Tucked beside Old Edwards Inn, this is the perfect spot to relax with a glass of wine and a bite in a beautiful outdoor setting.

• The Ugly Dog Public House – A Highlands favorite for pub fare and local beer.

• Outpost Inn – Cozy coffee shop by day, organic wine bar by night.

• Whiteside Brewing Co. (Cashiers) – Worth the short drive for burgers, craft beer, and a spacious outdoor lawn perfect for yard games or tossing a frisbee.

If hiking isn't your speed, Highlands has plenty to offer.

• Stroll Main Street – Wander through charming boutiques, art galleries, bookstores, and home décor shops in the heart of downtown.

• The Bascom – Highlands' center for the visual arts featuring rotating exhibitions and beautiful grounds. We haven’t had a chance to visit ourselves yet, but we’ve heard it’s nice.

• Trailborn Highlands Experiences – Even if you're not staying there, Trailborn offers fun activities and experiences ranging from guided adventures to wellness offerings.

Grab a coffee, wander Main Street, chase a waterfall (or three), and soak in everything that makes Highlands great. We can't wait to celebrate with all of you!