Things To Do
in High Point
High Point, located in the Piedmont region of North Carolina, blends a strong furniture heritage with a growing arts and dining scene. It’s known worldwide as Furniture City, hosting showroom visits and design events that attract visitors from around the country. The city pairs quiet residential neighborhoods with convenient access to the broader Triad region, making it a practical base for day trips.
In short, High Point offers a approachable mix of culture, commerce, and comfortable Southern hospitality.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the historic High Point Museum, where you can learn about the city's rich heritage and its role in the furniture industry. After that, stroll around the charming streets of downtown, admiring the beautifully restored buildings and local art installations. Grab a coffee from a nearby café and take in the vibrant atmosphere of the city.
In the afternoon, head to the High Point City Lake Park, where you can enjoy a picnic lunch under the shade of towering trees. Spend some time walking along the scenic trails or rent a pedal boat to explore the tranquil lake. As the sun begins to set, find a cozy spot to relax and enjoy the natural beauty around you.
For dinner, indulge in a delicious meal at one of High Point's renowned local restaurants, featuring everything from Southern cuisine to international flavors. After your meal, take a leisurely stroll through the downtown area, where you might catch live music or seasonal events. Conclude your evening by visiting a local pub for a nightcap and mingling with friendly locals.
Begin your day at the High Point Arts Council, where you can explore rotating exhibits that showcase local artists and their unique talents. Spend some time in the nearby galleries and studios, appreciating the diverse range of artistic expressions. Don't forget to stop by a local bakery for a pastry to fuel your creative exploration.
Head over to the High Point Theatre for a behind-the-scenes tour, where you can learn about its history and upcoming performances. After the tour, enjoy lunch at a nearby café, followed by a visit to the John Coltrane Statue, paying tribute to the legendary jazz musician who was born here. Take some time to reflect on the artistic legacy of High Point before moving on to the next adventure.
Attend a live performance at the High Point Theatre, where you can enjoy everything from concerts to theatrical productions. Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere as the audience engages with the performers. After the show, discuss your favorite moments over dessert at a charming local diner.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🏠One-bedroom apartment (city area) | $900-1,300/mo |
| 🚆Public transit monthly pass | $20-50 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $2-5 |
| 🍽️Dinner for two at mid-range restaurant | $40-80 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Central location in the Piedmont Triad with easy access to Greensboro and Winston-Salem
- Value for money with a diverse dining scene
- Strong furniture and design heritage; lots of showroom visits and design inspiration
- Family-friendly with parks, museums, and cultural events
- Nightlife is more low-key compared with larger cities
- Traffic can be heavier during Market Week
- Public transit outside the core is limited; car access remains convenient
- Some neighborhoods require travel by car to reach key attractions
Places to Visit in High Point
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic storefronts, vibrant street life, and seasonal events provide great urban photography with a Southern backdrop.
Calm water reflections and golden light create serene landscape shots, especially at dawn.
Architectural variety and manicured grounds offer compelling campus photography and wide-angle views.
Characterful streets, color contrasts, and period details ideal for architectural photography.
Mid-Atlantic historic charm, cobblestone streets, and preserved buildings perfect for nostalgic and cultural imagery.
Food in High Point
High Point Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Traditional North Carolina pork with a vinegar-based sauce; widely available at local BBQ joints and casual eateries.
Must-Try!
Fluffy biscuits served with creamy sausage gravy; a comforting staple at many breakfast spots and diners.
Delicate, peppery-sweet cookies from the broader Triad area, often found in bakeries and specialty shops.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market offering local produce, prepared foods, and artisanal goods—great for tasting regional flavors and picking up picnic supplies.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Friendly greetings, politeness, and small talk are common; address people with 'Sir' or 'Ma'am' in formal situations.
Be on time for appointments; keep conversations respectful and avoid overly charged topics in casual settings.
Safety
Tipping in High Point
Ensure a smooth experience
In the United States, tipping is customary: 15-20% for table service in restaurants; $1-2 per drink for bartenders; tips expected for most service workers.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid days are common; stay hydrated, wear lightweight breathable clothing, and enjoy evening outdoor events when possible.
Pleasant temperatures and fall foliage make outdoor strolls and weekend markets especially enjoyable.
Mild to cool with occasional cold snaps; layering is key and indoor cultural venues are a good fallback plan.
Blooming landscapes and moderate temperatures; great time for outdoor photography and garden visits.
High Point at Night
Hiking in High Point
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Wooded and hillier trails near Clemmons suitable for varied hiking levels and photography.
Forest trails along streams in a larger county park; day-use recreational area.
Water-themed trails and greenways suitable for easy to moderate hikes near Kernersville.
Airports
How to reach High Point by plane.
Primary regional airport serving the Greensboro–High Point–Winston-Salem area, about 20-25 miles away.
Major international airport about 1.5-2 hours drive to the northeast.
Major international hub roughly 2-3 hours to the south along interstate routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Historically the largest demographic group with growing diversity in many neighborhoods.
Significant community presence; varied neighborhoods and cultural activities.
Increasing share; influences local cuisine and community events.
Smaller but growing representation across the region.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Common recreational activity and school-age sports; local leagues and gym facilities are accessible.
Active youth and adult leagues; outdoor fields and community programs available.
Several public and semi-private courses in and around High Point for casual rounds.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting High Point.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most venues offer vegetarian options; look for salads, veggie mains, and pasta dishes. When dining out, ask about farm-fresh produce or vegetarian specials.