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Best Places to Visit & Things To Do in High Point, North Carolina, USA [Updated-2026]

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November 5, 2025

Best Places to Visit & Things To Do in High Point, North Carolina, USA [Updated-2026]

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More Than a Market: Your Ultimate Guide to the Best Things To Do in High Point, North Carolina

Mention High Point, North Carolina, and one image immediately comes to mind: the world’s largest furnishings market. For decades, this city has been the undisputed “Furniture Capital of the World,” a title earned through generations of craftsmanship and global commerce. Twice a year, the city swells with designers and buyers, transforming into a buzzing international hub. But when the market gates close, a different High Point emerges—one that is actively redefining itself with stunning public art, a rich civil rights history, and a community spirit that thrives in its beautiful parks and local eateries.

To see High Point as merely a trade show destination is to miss its authentic, year-round charm. This is a city where you can stand next to the world’s tallest chest of drawers, reflect on the struggle for racial equality in a historic building, and kayak on a serene lake, all in one day.

This guide will unlock the very best things to do in High Point, North Carolina. We’ll explore its iconic landmarks, its hidden natural gems, its profound historical sites, and the local flavors that make it a compelling stop in the Piedmont Triad.

The Heart of the City: Furniture, History & The New Downtown

High Point’s identity is a fascinating blend of its industrial past and a dynamic, creative present. The city is in the midst of a remarkable downtown renaissance.

1. Be Awestruck by the World’s Largest Chest of Drawers

You can’t visit High Point without seeing its most famous (and quirkiest) landmark. The World’s Largest Chest of Drawers is a 38-foot-tall testament to the city’s furniture-making heritage. Built in 1926 to house a furniture company, this functional building is a delightful piece of Americana and the perfect photo op. Don’t miss the giant socks hanging from the drawers—a playful nod to the region’s hosiery industry.

2. Experience the Transformation at Congdon Yards & The J.H. Adams Inn

The core of downtown High Point is undergoing an exciting revival, centered around innovation and history.

Congdon Yards: This former hosiery mill has been transformed into a vibrant mixed-use campus. It’s now home to The Factory, a collective of artist studios, unique shops, and eateries, embodying the city’s new creative energy. It’s a place to see local makers at work and find one-of-a-kind gifts.
The J.H. Adams Inn: Located adjacent to Congdon Yards, this historic hotel offers elegant accommodations in a beautifully restored property. Even if you’re not staying the night, its restaurant and ambiance are worth experiencing.

3. Reflect on History at the Historic Washington Street & the Mendenhall Homeplace

Historic Washington Street: This district was the heart of High Point’s African American community during the Jim Crow era. A walking tour here reveals beautifully preserved homes and churches, including the Hayworth Memorial Chapel, telling a vital story of resilience and community building.
Mendenhall Homeplace (in nearby Jamestown): Just a short drive away, this Quaker farmstead offers a powerful look at a different kind of history. The site includes a “station” on the Underground Railroad, where the Mendenhall family risked everything to provide refuge for freedom seekers. The guided tour is moving and essential.

Art, Culture & The City’s Creative Pulse

High Point is investing heavily in art and culture, using creativity as a catalyst for community connection.

4. Discover the “Chair City” Identity Through Public Art

High Point’s nickname isn’t just for show; it’s celebrated through an impressive collection of public art.

The “Love Chair”: Located in the new String & Splinter park, this massive, colorful chair sculpture that spells out “LOVE” has quickly become a new city icon.
The “Unity” Chair: A stunning, mosaic-tiled chair located at the High Point Theatre, representing the coming together of the community.
Sculpture and Murals: As you explore downtown, keep an eye out for numerous other sculptures and vibrant murals that add color and character to the cityscape. The public art tour is a free and engaging way to explore.

5. Catch a Show at the High Point Theatre

This professional performing arts center hosts a diverse calendar of events, from national touring concerts and Broadway-style productions to comedy shows and children’s theater. It’s a cornerstone of the city’s cultural life.

The Great Outdoors: Parks & Recreation

For a city known for indoor furnishings, High Point boasts an incredible and award-winning park system.

6. Find Peace and Adventure at City Lake Park

A jewel in the city’s crown, City Lake Park is a 300-acre oasis that feels a world away from the urban core. It’s a paradise for families and outdoor enthusiasts.

What to Do:
- Ride the Rides: Enjoy a charming, antique carousel and a miniature train that chugs through the woods and around the lake.
- Get on the Water: Rent a pedal boat, kayak, or canoe to explore the serene lake.
- Play and Picnic: The park features massive playgrounds, picnic shelters, and plenty of green space to run and play.

7. Explore the Vast Oak Hollow District

This is High Point’s premier destination for active recreation. The Oak Hollow area includes a marina, a campground, and multiple parks centered around a 800-acre lake.

Oak Hollow Lake: Perfect for sailing, fishing, and pontoon boating. The lake is also surrounded by a scenic trail popular with walkers and runners.
Oak Hollow Festival Park: A large, open space that hosts major community events, concerts, and festivals throughout the year.
Golf and Sports Complex: The area also features a championship golf course and extensive athletic fields.

8. Hike and Bike the Piedmont Greenway

Part of the larger Piedmont Triad Regional Greenway network, this trail system offers paved pathways for walking, running, and cycling. It’s a wonderful way to experience the natural beauty of the area and connect different parts of the city.

A Taste of High Point: The Local Food Scene

High Point’s culinary scene is as varied as its history, with a mix of long-standing Southern institutions and exciting new additions.

Southern Classics and Seafood: You’ll find fantastic, no-frills restaurants serving up heaping plates of Southern comfort food—think fried chicken, barbecue, and fresh, local seafood. Kepley’s Bar-B-Q is a legendary, family-owned spot that has been serving its unique, vinegar-based barbecue since 1949.
The “Krispy Kreme” Birthplace: While the original shop is long gone, High Point is the birthplace of the iconic Krispy Kreme doughnut. You can still get your hot-now fix at a modern location in town.
A Growing Craft Beverage Scene: The Piedmont Triad’s craft beer movement has reached High Point. Check out local breweries and taprooms that are becoming popular community gathering spots.
International Flavors: Reflecting its diverse community, High Point offers a range of international cuisine, including excellent Mexican, Vietnamese, and Mediterranean restaurants.

Day Trip Gateway: High Point’s Central Location

Nestled in the heart of the Piedmont Triad, High Point is perfectly positioned for exploring the region.

Greensboro: Just 15 minutes north, offering major museums, a vibrant downtown, and the Greensboro Science Center.
Winston-Salem: A 30-minute drive west, home to the renowned Reynolda House Museum of American Art, Old Salem Museums & Gardens, and a thriving innovation district.
Charlotte: For a big-city experience, North Carolina’s largest city is just a 90-minute drive south.

Planning Your High Point Getaway: Practical Tips

Best Time to Visit:
- Spring (April-June) and Fall (September-October) offer the most pleasant weather for enjoying the parks and outdoor activities.
- Be Mindful of Market Weeks: The High Point Market occurs in April and October. During these weeks, the city is incredibly busy, and hotel prices are at their peak. For a quieter, more local experience, plan your visit outside of these dates.
Getting Around: Having a car is the most convenient way to explore High Point and the surrounding Triad area. The city is spread out, and while downtown is walkable, the parks and other attractions require a vehicle.
Where to Stay: You’ll find a wide range of national hotel chains. For a unique and historic stay, the J.H. Adams Inn in downtown is the premier choice.

Your High Point Adventure Awaits

High Point, North Carolina, is a city confidently navigating the balance between its proud heritage and its exciting future. It’s the hum of a sewing machine in a repurposed mill and the laughter of children on a vintage carousel. It’s the quiet dignity of a historic home and the bold statement of a 38-foot-tall chest of drawers.

So, come with an open mind. Explore the parks, discover the art, savor the food, and connect with the history. You’ll find that High Point’s true value isn’t just in its showrooms, but in the vibrant, welcoming community that calls it home year-round.

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Explore More USA City

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Best Places to Visit & Things To Do in High Point, North Carolina, USA [Updated-2026]

More Than a Market: Your Ultimate Guide to the Best Things To Do in High Point, North Carolina

The Heart of the City: Furniture, History & The New Downtown

1. Be Awestruck by the World’s Largest Chest of Drawers

2. Experience the Transformation at Congdon Yards & The J.H. Adams Inn

3. Reflect on History at the Historic Washington Street & the Mendenhall Homeplace

Art, Culture & The City’s Creative Pulse

4. Discover the “Chair City” Identity Through Public Art

5. Catch a Show at the High Point Theatre

The Great Outdoors: Parks & Recreation

6. Find Peace and Adventure at City Lake Park

7. Explore the Vast Oak Hollow District

8. Hike and Bike the Piedmont Greenway

A Taste of High Point: The Local Food Scene

Day Trip Gateway: High Point’s Central Location

Planning Your High Point Getaway: Practical Tips

Your High Point Adventure Awaits

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