If you’re looking for some things to do in Highland Falls, New York, you’ve come to the right place. The town was formerly known as Buttermilk Falls and was founded in 1906. It has a population of approximately 3,900 as of the 2010 census. Whether you’re a nature lover or an urbanite, there’s plenty to do in this scenic town.
Half-Mile Farm
A historic country inn in the beautiful Highlands of North Carolina, Half-Mile Farm is situated near the Old Edwards Inn. With its idyllic setting next to a serene lake, the inn offers luxurious accommodations and a gourmet breakfast each morning. It also features a heated mineral pool and a tavern with a full bar.
Half-Mile Farm is a cozy 1880s farmhouse that offers many amenities and activities. Guests can relax on the porch overlooking the six-acre lake, take a hike, or enjoy a relaxing massage at the Serenity Suite. During their stay, they can also visit the Old Edwards Inn and Spa, where they can use the fitness center.
Half-Mile Farm has been part of the Highlands community for more than a century, and its recent acquisition by the Old Edwards Hospitality Group has brought a renewed sense of luxury and a new level of service. The property offers free car parking, free WiFi in the rooms and common areas, and complimentary toiletries and refreshments. The 23 deluxe rooms come with a flat-screen TV and private bathroom.
Glen Falls
One of the best Glen Falls things to do is to hike down the trail to the falls. This two-mile trail, which is part of Nantahala National Forest, takes you past the three cascades and offers spectacular views. It also features a number of switchbacks.
If you’re a music lover, you might want to go to a concert or an art exhibition in the area. While you’re there, you can also go shopping and dine at local restaurants and galleries. Many of them feature live music and eclectic menus featuring local ingredients.
Another fun Glen Falls thing to do is to check out Dry Falls, a scenic 75-foot waterfall. This attraction has a designated parking area and a wheelchair-accessible observation area. In addition, you might want to check out Glen Falls, a multi-tiered waterfall with the tallest waterfall reaching 70 feet.
Cullasaja River Gorge
Cullasaja River, from which the town of Highlands derives its name, carves a deep gorge through the Southern Appalachians and runs west from Highlands, N.C. The gorge is accessible via the Mountain Waters Scenic Byway, a serpentine two-lane highway that winds through the Nanthahala National Forest. It offers spectacular views and waterfalls.
The Cullasaja River Gorge is located 8.8 miles west of Highlands on the Mountain Waters Scenic Highway. Despite its dry spell, the gorge is still a spectacular sight. In particular, Lower Cullasaja Falls tumble 250 feet along U.S. 64. Its pullout is large enough to accommodate several cars. There is also a boulder field below the falls, which stretches a short way down river.
In addition to the Cullasaja River Gorge, there are other waterfalls to see in the area. Cullasaja Falls is a 250-foot waterfall that cascades over a massive granite spire. The drive to the falls is relatively easy, but parking is limited. The road is narrow, so make sure you have a vehicle with plenty of space.
Bascom: Center for the Visual Arts
The Bascom Center for the Visual Arts is a nonprofit organization with a unique history. Founded in 1983 by Watson and Louise Bascom, the center has expanded rapidly since then. Its exhibition schedule has tripled over the past six years, and the center is now housed in a brand-new campus. It is dedicated to providing a unique art experience for everyone, including children and adults.
The Bascom Center for the Visual Arts in Highland Falls, Georgia, features a collection of artwork by a number of internationally acclaimed artists. One current exhibition, “Art for the Modern Age,” features paintings by Art Rosenbaum and large, abstract kinetic sculptures by Tim Curtis. Another exhibit, “Her Impressions,” includes works by women from the Impressionism movement. Many works are on loan from museums throughout the Southeast.
The Bascom is a nonprofit art center with six buildings on a six-acre campus. Unlike other art museums, it does not hold a large private collection, instead focusing on top-notch exhibitions from around the Southeast. Last year, it hosted six exhibitions, including shows by painter Frank Stella, glass artist Richard Ritter, and ceramics maker Ben Owen.
Highland Falls zoo
One of the many things to do in Highland Falls is visit the zoo. The zoo is free to enter and has many different exhibits that are sure to delight. There are also many activities that can be enjoyed by the whole family. Visitors can also feed the animals right from the dock. You can also spend time in the Wild Creatures Playland, which is located near the Scottish Highland Cattle and North American Porcupines. There are also alpacas, mini donkeys, and grey wolves.
Storm King Art Center
The Storm King Art Center in Highland Falls, NY, has been around for more than 50 years. The center was originally conceived as a museum showcasing the paintings and sculptures of Hudson River School artists. In the 1960s, businessmen Peter Stern and Ralph E. “Ted” Ogden purchased the site from late sculptor David Smith.
There are a variety of activities available to the entire family. Many of them revolve around art and nature. For example, a summer program includes a field trip, where children can hunt for plants and animals. There is a special environmental field station designed by artist Mark Dion. Bike rentals are also available, although they are recommended for people 4’7″ and taller. Strollers and trailers are also available to accommodate young visitors.
The Storm King Art Center has always had a concern for nature and the environment. In 2018, it held an exhibit entitled “Indicators of Climate Change,” featuring work by seventeen artists. Some of these works included a coffee-bean installation inspired by the temporary shelters that Puerto Ricans lived in after Hurricane Maria. Other pieces included a solar-powered garden with native flora that was replanted on the grounds after the show ended.
Highland Falls Intermediate School
Highland Falls Intermediate School is a middle school located in Highland Falls, NY. It is within close proximity to recreational areas, parks, and higher learning institutions. The school is also in close proximity to a number of prestigious universities and school districts. While some teachers at Highland Falls Intermediate School may be better than others, the principal is exceptional and believes in her students.
Highland Falls Intermediate School is a public school. It serves students in grades three through eight. There are approximately 312 students enrolled in the school, and 32 teachers. This results in a student-teacher ratio of 11:1. Highland Falls Intermediate School has lower-than-average academic achievement, with an average proficiency test score of 39.5%.
James I. O’Neill High School
The James I. O’Neill High School in the town of Highland Falls, New York, is a public high school for students in grades 9-12. It was founded in 1972 and has more than 600 students. It offers several extracurricular activities, including cheerleading, tennis, baseball, and cross country.
The school is known for its extracurricular activities and academic programs. In addition to the classroom experience, students have access to a cafeteria, a track, and a gym. There are over 30 clubs and organizations at O’Neill, and the administration is always looking for new ideas to engage students.
The James I. O’Neill High School in Highland Falls, NY is a public high school that serves the children of Orange County. It is part of the Highland Falls-Fort Montgomery Central School District.