- The list below includes 69 free or cheap things to do in or near Highlands, North Carolina, including 80 different types of inexpensive activities like Waterfalls, Art Gallery, Walking Trails and Movie Theaters.
- From Dry Falls to Whiteside Mountain, there are a variety of budget-friendly attractions in Highlands and in nearby cities within 25 miles like Franklin, Sylva, Walhalla and Clayton.
Showing 101-110 of
335
29.4 Miles
73%
1858 votes
226 Everett Street, Bryson City, NC 28713
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Train enthusiasts love the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad, a 'living museum' of functioning passenger trains from a bygone era. Visitors may choose from a variety of fun ride packages, and families with children should not miss their chance to ride the 'Polar Express.'
29.4 Miles
Part of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Cold Mountain sits in Asheville, North Carolina. This scenic mountain is part of the sophisticated resort experience modern Asheville offers. It is a fantastic destination for romantic getaways.
29.5 Miles
A fun activity for all ages, everyone is welcome to try gem hunting at the Nantahala Gorge Ruby Mine. An educated and knowledgeable staff will further assist with stone identification as well as cutting, cleaning and shining any discovered treasure.
29.5 Miles
Open to public fishing, Morgan Mill Trout Farm stocks a pond with rainbow trout for visitors to fish in. The farm also has a service where visitors can have their newly caught fish filleted and packed with ice.
29.6 Miles
99%
551 votes
14690 Hwy 19 W, Bryson City, NC 28713
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Bryson City, North Carolina is home to Adventurous Fast Rivers Rafting. The company provides high-octane, adrenaline-fueled whitewater rafting trips in stable, comfortable rafts and guides trained in lifesaving techniques. These are not for the faint of heart!
29.6 Miles
The Cherokee Indian Reservation in Cherokee, North Carolina is the most important Cherokee Reservation in the United States. Its residents welcome visitors and offer many traditional crafts for sale. The Reservation also hosts cultural seminars and educational events.
29.7 Miles
PaddleFish Kayaking is a tour company that takes guests on a variety of kayaking trips on scenic Fontana Lake for both half and full days. The company also leads multi-day backpacking and kayaking trips.
29.7 Miles
The over 21 crowd will enjoy a visit to Nantahala Brewing Company in Bryson City. Along with a taproom where their distinct beers can be tasted, special events such as musical concerts are often hosted at this venue.
29.7 Miles
75%
8 votes
59 Depot Street, Bryson City, NC 28713
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Offering guided kayak tours, PaddleFish Kayaking - Private Day Trips, takes paddlers on an exploration of Lake Fontana and the Great Smoky Mountain in western North Carolina. Tours range from three hours for beginners to three days for serious paddlers.
29.7 Miles
83%
219 votes
100 Greenlee St, Bryson City, NC 28713
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The collection of model trains at the Smokey Mountain Trains Museum dates back to 1918. There are actually two model railroad layouts with 7,000 Lionel engines, cars, and accessories in addition to a children's activity center and toy shop.