(Paid partnership with The Park on Main. All opinions are my own.)

Traveling is not easy anymore. First, your flight can be canceled at any time by the airlines. Second, you’re worried about finding a hotel that follows Covid safety protocol. Did you pack masks? Did you remember hand sanitizer? For this reason, Gary and I chose a destination that was driveable for us (from South Florida) – a road trip to North Carolina that ultimately exceeded our hopes for a fun-filled vacay regardless of the pandemic. Lucky us, we researched and chose to stay at The Park On Main, the best place to stay in Highlands, North Carolina.

But before I tell you the details about The Park on Main in North Carolina, let me share a little about Highlands.

Where to Stay in Highlands, NC

The views in Highlands are a poet’s dream. All we wanted was to unplug, sit back and take in the beauty of the magnificent mountains, and of course, get in a little recreation and shopping (my favorite recreational activity!). Shopping, parks, playhouses, hiking, dining—there is an endless list of things you can do and see in Highlands, including exploring the area itself.

If you try to avoid overcrowded places (sad Covid reminder), you will have lots to explore and do in Highlands (cliché, but there is not a dull moment). Even sipping coffee right outside your hotel room, overlooking the gorgeous garden terrace at The Park on Main, is a treat. There is art, beauty, calm, and serenity all around. For us, we wanted this vacation to be full of comfort, luxury, good food, and beautiful scenery. And that’s why we were delighted when we checked into The Park On Main.

The Park on Main

Located on Main Street at the western end of Highlands— The Park on Main is a pet owner’s dream come true. Yes! If you have a pet (or several), the 24-room luxury suite hotel not only provides free accommodations but also spoils your furry fellow with treats and toys. We don’t have any pets right now, but Gary is a huge dog-lover, so it was a bonus when we found out The Park on Main welcomes furry friends. That way, he could get his doggie fix, and I could get my shopping on-a-vacay fix, and we could BOTH get our sightseeing and recreational fixes!

Our Stay at the Pet-Friendly The Park on Main

When we arrived at the hotel, we were immediately charmed by its quaintness and personality – even from the outside. Gorgeous landscaping, lush flowers, beautiful trees… And the inside – sooo cute! The black and white lobby with animal prints and pictures, custom drapery, and a dazzling chandelier gives a very warm and luxe vibe. You can sense instantly that you are in for a special time.

Meet Mr. Pickles of The Park on Main…

The Park on Main is not just a regular pet-friendly hotel. The hotel’s uniqueness and life are Mr. Pickles.

You will see the Scottish terrier everywhere – at least in portraits, your door do-not-disturb tags, etc. If you are here with your pet, you will also receive complimentary dog treats and toys from Mr. Pickles. BTW, don’t underestimate Mr. Pickles. He has the largest suite with two bedrooms and three terraces- named after him. If he could, Mr. Pickles would tell you himself that The Park on Main is the best place to stay in Highlands, North Carolina.

Our Suite

We stayed in suite 203, and it was beautiful. I couldn’t get over the rustic and rugged meets cozy and romantic vibe. Once you start settling in, you will notice that every piece of furniture is placed with the guest’s comfort in mind. The small office table with a coffee corner, the cozy couches next to the fireplace, and the huge dog bed on the side of the hall dresser —everything makes you feel like you are at home – yet away. Make sense?

Throughout our stay, whenever we came back from shopping or sightseeing, the first thing I wanted to do was plop (in a ladylike manner, of course!) on the living room couch and turn on the fireplace. Just thinking about that makes me want to go back there (really).

The Bathrooms

I have one rule in my traveling book: a hotel is as good, clean, and comfy as its bathroom. So yes, a bathroom is the deal maker and breaker for me! And, at The Park on Main, the bathrooms are glorious. With white marble floors, built-in showers, double sinks, and makeup towels—you will feel like you are in your own little spa. (Not all rooms have double sinks.)

The Experience

When you are staying at The Park on Main in Highlands, it is hard to leave the comfort of your room and get out.

But once you do, you will find that there is much to do!

Because of the pandemic, we were cautious in choosing safer outdoorsy activities, which is very easy to do in Highlands.

Shopping On-the-Go

There’s something for every shopper on Main Street and some of the surrounding areas as well. So whether you’re shopping for souvenirs, designer clothing, goodies for the kids or grandkids, or want a glass of wine or cup of coffee, you’ll find it here.

Dry Falls, Bust Your Butt Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, Satulah Falls- (no, I am not making up these names)- there are so many beautiful waterfalls that you can see up close at Highlands. My husband loved the Dry Falls- they are mesmerizing. Have you walked under the waterfall without getting wet? You can try that here. And so close to The Park on Main.

Dining

There are plenty of options for fine dining. However, we also wanted to try the ‘Ugly Dog Public House’ for its famous burgers and brunches. And, we are so glad that we did!

The food was scrumptious. They offer a nice beer selection, and you can also stay late at the night bar.

So many yummy spots. Wolfgang’s Restaurant, Madisons, Midpointe Highlands. The list goes on and on.

If you are planning to visit Highlands, NC- check out these places, but most of all, stay at The Park on Main. You will love the suites, the staff, and the service. Most importantly, the hotel’s prime location makes it one of the best places to stay in Highlands. It is so easy to explore nearby locations in the area from the hotel.

Treats for Fido

When we entered the lobby our eyes are drawn to the credenza against the wall. Below the center portrait of Mr. Pickles (surrounded by more portraits of all his friends), is a table with a plate filled with sweet treats for people, as well as a basket with adorable biscuits for pets. And although there was coffee available in our room, we also enjoyed helping ourselves to complimentary coffee (and snacks) from the lobby, whenever we were leaving or returning to the hotel.

Want to Make it More Fun?

Forget the Pets for a Moment, Because I’ve Got a Treat for You!

If you book The Park on Main by calling this special number (833-776-0535) and use my code, GWEN21, you will receive a specially selected bottle of Schug Pinot Noir as a gift from the hotel. So, go ahead! Plan your visit and when you get back, tell me what you loved the most about The Park on Main and the beautiful Highlands, NC area.

Final Tidbits: The Best Place to Stay in Highlands, North Carolina

• Free parking in the cleanest hotel garage we’ve ever seen
• Convenient grab-and-go breakfast in lobby (due to Covid)
• Fabulous location in the heart of town
• Tesla Destination Charging Stations in garage
• TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Award – top 25 small hotels in the United States

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