Most North Carolinians have at least heard of the quaint mountain town of Highlands. Its Main Street is both charming and teeming with enough activity to fill an entire day with adventure. But most people overlook Highlands Botanical Garden, which is located less than a mile from the historic Main Street.

Begun in 1962 as a natural refuge for flora and fauna that is native to the Southern Appalachians, this hidden gem is a secret only the locals know about.
TripAdvisor/Mary B
The facility also includes an educational nature center, complete with a resident (faux) bear. But outside the nature center, and in the botanical garden, awaits a magical experience.
TripAdvisor/FlyboyTraveler
Garden trails with fairy tale foot bridges carry visitors through this wonderful natural garden.
TripAdvisor/Mary B
TripAdvisor/Sharon K

Related Stories

Most People In North Carolina Don't Know This Unique Park Even Exists

Most People In North Carolina Don't Know This Unique Park Even Exists

 The One-Of-A-Kind Park In North Carolina Where You Can See Wild Cats Up Close

The One-Of-A-Kind Park In North Carolina Where You Can See Wild Cats Up Close

 There's No Other Cemetery In North Carolina As Unique As This One

There's No Other Cemetery In North Carolina As Unique As This One
It features a small pond filled with pond lilies and creatures.
TripAdvisor/Richard R
TripAdvisor/rhucks2
Keep a keen eye out for snapping turtles. You should be fine as long as you keep your fingers out of the water and don't try to pick up any turtles on land.
TripAdvisor/Sharon K
Highlands Botanical Garden is under the stewardship of the Highlands Biological Station, a research-geared entity that also manages this amazing natural botanical garden.
TripAdvisor/Mary B
Want to see it in person? You'll be amazed how close it is to all the hullabaloo on Main Street in charming little Highlands.
Google Maps

Highlands Botanical Garden is located at 265 N 6th St., Highlands, NC 28741. The garden is open seven days a week, year-round, from sunrise to sunset. Admission is free. Learn more on the official website of Highlands Biological Station.

Love finding hidden secrets to explore? Check out this massive public garden hiding in plain sight in the middle of a residential neighborhood in a big North Carolina city.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Related Articles

Explore North Carolina