The quaint town of Highlands, NC is a hidden jewel just 2 hours drive north of Atlanta surrounded by the Nantahala National Forest and situated atop a plateau at elevation 4118 feet. Experience mother natures’ four seasons, explore scenic drives and hiking trails; stroll beneath Dry Falls, drive under Bridal Veil Falls or view Whitewater Falls – the tallest east of the Rockies at 411 feet. Visit Highlands for the ultimate mountain experience and see why Southern Living chose Highlands a Top 5 Small Town Getaway.
Maintaining a vibrant economic climate while nurturing our environment and lifestyle for our year round and second home residents is the goal of the Highlands Chamber of Commerce. The Chamber represents over 350 businesses in the area who depend on the Chamber for membership services including networking events, community and business development, tourism marketing and promotion, public policy, and a Visitor Center. The Chamber is located at 108 Main Street.
The Chamber is governed by a Board of Directors composed of nine elected members who serve three year terms with three rotating off annually. The Board hires a President who hires a staff to manage the day to day operations of the Chamber. The Visitor Center is a part of the Chamber. The Chamber promotes the town and its businesses through direct marketing Advertising Co-ops, Advertising Partnerships, publishing brochures, and working with travel Highlands, North Carolina writers and newspaper and magazine editors for editorial content on Highlands. It also puts on annual events such as the Fourth of July fireworks and games, Town Trick or Treating, the Town Lighting, and the Christmas Parade. Other events are done on a one time basis.
Networking events such as Spring Fling, Fall Finale, and Business after Hours are held throughout the year. Ribbon cuttings, economic data gathering, lead lists, business referral, relocation and visitor packets, business seminars, and being an advocate with governmental and regulatory bodies are but a few of the services provided to our members.