Overview
High Point sits in the Piedmont Triad region of North Carolina, roughly equidistant from Greensboro and Winston-Salem. With a population around 110,000, it is a mid-sized city whose identity is almost entirely shaped by its role at the center of the American furniture industry.
Twice a year — typically in April and October — the High Point Market draws tens of thousands of trade professionals from around the world, temporarily transforming the city into one of the busiest convention destinations in the Southeast. Outside of Market weeks, the city is calm and easy to navigate, offering a handful of genuine cultural and historic attractions without the crowds.
For most leisure travelers, High Point works best as a stop within a broader Piedmont Triad itinerary that might also include Greensboro's civil-rights history or Winston-Salem's arts scene. That said, furniture enthusiasts, design professionals, and anyone curious about American manufacturing heritage will find it worth dedicating specific time to.
Before You Go
Visas
High Point is a US city, so standard US entry requirements apply. Requirements vary significantly by nationality. Check TravelerPulse's Visas section and the official US Customs and Border Protection website (cbp.gov) for current rules before booking.
High Point Market dates
If you are not a trade attendee, strongly consider checking Market dates before you visit. The spring and fall markets bring massive increases in hotel prices and road congestion. Dates shift slightly each year — verify on the official High Point Market website before planning.
What to pack
- Spring and fall are mild but variable; layers are useful
- Summers are hot and humid; light, breathable clothing and sunscreen are recommended
- The city is car-dependent, so comfortable walking shoes matter mainly for specific attractions rather than general transit
Getting There
By air
The nearest major airport is Piedmont Triad International Airport (GSO) in Greensboro, roughly 20–25 minutes by car. Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) is about 90 minutes southwest and offers significantly more flight options for domestic and international travelers.
By car
High Point is well served by Interstate 85 and US-29/70. The city is approximately 90 miles northeast of Charlotte and about 80 miles west of Raleigh. Driving is the most practical way to arrive.
By train and bus
Amtrak's Carolinian/Piedmont corridor stops at High Point's Amtrak station on South Main Street, connecting the city to Charlotte, Greensboro, and points beyond — verify current schedules and booking at amtrak.com. Greyhound and regional bus services also provide connections to neighboring Triad cities; check schedules locally.
Getting Around
High Point is a car-dependent city, and the vast majority of attractions, hotels, and restaurants are most easily reached by personal vehicle or rideshare. Parking is generally available and not difficult to find outside of Market periods.
Rideshare apps (Uber, Lyft) operate in the city, though availability can be limited compared to larger urban areas — confirm coverage before relying on them for time-sensitive travel. The city does operate a public transit system (High Point Transit); route information and schedules should be verified directly with the city or via the PART (Piedmont Authority for Regional Transportation) website.
The downtown area and a few specific corridors are walkable once you are at your destination, but distances between major points of interest make walking as a primary mode impractical for most visitors.
Things to See & Do
Furniture Discovery Center
This museum dedicated to the history and craft of American furniture making is one of High Point's most distinctive cultural offerings. It explores how the region became the center of the furniture industry and includes hands-on exhibits. Verify current hours and admission fees before visiting.
Angela Peterson Children's Museum
A well-regarded interactive museum for families with young children, located in downtown High Point. Confirm current admission and hours on the museum's official website.
World's Largest Chest of Drawers
High Point is home to a well-known roadside landmark — a giant chest of drawers structure that serves as a whimsical symbol of the city's furniture identity. It is free to view from the exterior and makes for a quick, memorable photo stop.
High Point City Lake Park
The city's main outdoor recreation area offers walking trails, picnic areas, a beach, and seasonal activities around a reservoir. It is a popular spot for locals and a good option for a relaxed half-day outdoors.
Kersey Valley
Just outside the city, Kersey Valley is a large agritourism and entertainment complex known for its seasonal corn maze, zip lines, and a major haunted attraction in October. Verify seasonal availability and book ahead during peak periods.
Food & Drink
High Point's dining scene is modest compared to larger Piedmont Triad cities but has grown in variety in recent years. Downtown has seen new restaurant openings, and the broader city offers a range of casual American, barbecue, and international options.
North Carolina-style barbecue (typically slow-smoked pork with a vinegar-based sauce in the Lexington tradition, as this area sits near the boundary between eastern and Piedmont styles) is a regional staple worth seeking out. Several local spots specialize in this style — ask locals for current recommendations, as the restaurant landscape shifts.
For coffee, craft beer, and casual dining, the downtown corridor has seen the most development. During High Point Market, restaurants operate at capacity and waits can be long; reservations are strongly advised in that period.
Shopping
Furniture shopping is, predictably, the dominant retail draw in High Point. The city has a number of furniture showrooms and outlet stores that sell to the public (distinct from the trade-only Market showrooms). These outlets can offer significant value on home furnishings, particularly for shoppers willing to arrange their own shipping or transport.
Beyond furniture, the standard range of retail — national chains, strip malls, and a few local shops — is available throughout the city. The downtown area has independent boutiques and local businesses worth exploring.
Note that many of the large Market showrooms are open only to verified trade professionals during Market events and may be closed or have restricted access at other times. Confirm access policies before planning a shopping visit around specific showrooms.
Practical Information
Emergency services
In any emergency in the United States, dial 911 for police, fire, or medical assistance.
Health
High Point has hospital facilities; Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist has a presence in the region. Verify the nearest urgent care or emergency facility to your accommodation upon arrival.
Money
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted. ATMs are available throughout the city. No currency exchange concerns apply within the US.
Connectivity
Mobile coverage (major US carriers) is reliable throughout the city. Most hotels and many restaurants offer Wi-Fi.
Tipping
Standard US tipping conventions apply: 18–20% at sit-down restaurants, a few dollars for housekeeping, and similar amounts for other service workers is customary.
Safety
High Point, like most mid-sized American cities, has neighborhoods that vary in character. The downtown area and main commercial corridors are generally safe for visitors during daylight hours. As with any city, exercising standard precautions — being aware of your surroundings, not leaving valuables visible in parked cars, and staying in well-lit areas at night — is sensible.
For current and specific safety information, consult the High Point Police Department's public communications or ask hotel staff about areas to be aware of around your accommodation. The US State Department does not issue domestic travel advisories, so local knowledge is your best resource.
