Must-visit High Point eats, hikes and hot spots
The iconic Hanging Rock State Park in Danbury, North Carolina is worth the 45-minute drive. Photo by: visitnc.com
By Anne Davey, Opinion Editor//
High Point may not be a thriving metropolis of activity and night-life, but it is a burgeoning town in one of the greatest locations in the nation. Situated in the heart of the Piedmont-Triad, High Point is surrounded by diverse, up-and-coming cities like Winston-Salem and Greensboro. Its location right in the middle of North Carolina means there is no shortage of places, activities and terrains to keep you entertained. Whether you want to hike, see a comedy show, swim, or enjoy a freshly brewed local beer, High Point has got you covered. What’s there to do in High Point, people ask, isn’t that the furniture place? Hold the furniture thought and explore all that our city really does have to offer.
Getting Rowdy
The Deck, just up the road from HPU in Jamestown, is the coolest bar in the area. With a huge back patio, great local musicians, and a charming eclectic feel, the Deck is a favorite for the locals and college students alike.
Greene Street is a short trip away from campus in booming downtown Greensboro, where there is no shortage of every kind of nightlife your heart could desire. From clubs, to concert venues, to art-gallery cocktail hours, Greene Street is perfect for all tastes, and all budgets.
Local Flavors
Liberty Steakhouse is a favorite of HPU students that have been around the block, Liberty is just 2 minutes from campus near the Oak Hollow Mall Complex. Liberty’s menu is full of delicious classic favorites, from steaks to fried pickles. They also brew their own beer and have a dozen varieties. Stop by on Wednesdays for Trivia Night, and most weekends for fantastic live music.
Penny Path Cafe is a fan favorite of the cultured crowd. Penny Path is as charming as it is delicious. This French style creperie off Main Street in High Point offers artisan crepes and incredible coffee. Whether you want something sweet or savory, Penny Path will not disappoint.
Carter Brothers BBQ sells the best Carolina BBQ, which is a tradition and a culture all its own. For those of us not fortunate enough to have been born into the Southern institution that is BBQ, Carter Brothers is the most authentic and delicious BBQ meal you’ll likely ever have. Located right on Main Street, its a must try.
DeBeen Espresso offers many things. Whether you want a quiet place to study, an artisan cup of coffee, or a weekend yoga class, DeBeen is the hidden gem of your dreams. Perfect for a back to school caffeine boost or just to escape the hustle of campus, unwinding over a drink and digging in to your studies at DeBeen is the best idea you’ll have.
Honorable mention: Cookout, Southern Roots and Tipsy’z Tavern.
Outdoor Adventures
Hanging Rock is just a 45 minute drive from HPU. Hanging Rock State Park is an iconic NC landmark, with stunning views and hikes for all skill levels and thrill seekers. A favorite weekend activity of students, the trip to hanging rock is beautiful year round. Hike, fish, kayak and explore the great outdoors.
Oak Hollow Lake waas originally the primary water supply for High Point. Oak Hollow Lake features a scenic lake, with abundant fishing, boating and golfing along its shores. Perfect for a lunch break, sunny day picnic, or Saturday tee-off. Explore the great outdoors just two minutes from campus.
Shopping
Wicked Purple Boutique is just up the road from HPU, situated off Lexington Avenue. Wicked Purple is the perfect little boutique. Full of unique clothes, vintage inspired jewelry, party dresses and classics like Jack Rogers, there’s something for everyone in this trendy local gem. Be on the lookout for their special shopping events, with great discounts for HPU students!
For all the girls out there that wish their Pinterest closet could be their real one, Boho Blue is laden with exactly those cute pieces you’ve been coveting. From flirty dresses to statement necklaces, all the way to over-sized purses and locally made candles, Boho Blue is the perfect retail therapy break, and it’s location right in the heart of the Palladium means easy access and plenty of sweet treats just in case you work up an appetite shopping.
Have no fear, your requisite shopping mall, Hanes Mall, is just a short drive away. Hanes Mall is located in Winston-Salem which is a scenic 20 minute drive on the highway away from campus. Filled with every store you could possibly imagine, and a killer food court, Hanes is your ideal mall fix. Bonus*** HPU runs shuttles to the mall several times a semester- no car no worries!
Then there’s Friendly Center, located a short trip from Downtown Greensboro. The Friendly Center is an open air mall, with shops, restaurants and activities galore. Spend a Saturday morning playing with Puppies at Friendly Pets, getting a cup of coffee at Caribou, or shopping at a wide variety of stores.
If you’re up for a day trip….
Take in the art scene and pick from any one of the amazing restaurants that line the iconic campus of UNC Chapel Hill, and then hit the town on Franklin Street where historic bars and fraternity parties make for some of the best nightlife in the state.
Adventures surround Charlotte, where NASCAR fans and shoppers alike delight in this diverse, young city. Catch a ball game at BB&T Ballpark or a concert one of the city’s many music venues.