It's no secret, most of us would like to stay in our own home as we age. Yet, sometimes our loved ones just need a little extra help to remain comfortable at home. That's where Always Best Care can help....we are dedicated to exceeding expectations....always.
They say that your golden years are the best years of your life. For most older Americans, that's how it should be - a time to relax, reflect, and live life in a familiar place. After all, senior citizens in the U.S. have worked tirelessly to build a better economy, serve their communities, and raise families.
However, as seniors grow older, completing daily tasks like showering and enjoying activities such as visiting the historic Fort George gets harder without someone by their side. Unfortunately, many older Americans aren't able to rely on their adult children for help. The reality in today's world is that family members do not have the skills or time to dedicate to caring for their parents. That's where Always Best Care Senior Services comes in.
Our in-home care services are for people who prefer to stay at home as they grow older but need ongoing care that family or friends cannot provide. More and more older adults prefer to live far away from long-term, institutionalized facilities and closer to the place where they feel most comfortable - their home. Home care in Highlands, NC is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.
Home Care Services
Service AreasSince 1996, Always Best Care has provided non-medical in-home care for seniors to help them maintain a healthy lifestyle as they get older. We are proud to have helped more than 25,000 seniors maintain higher levels of dignity and respect. We focus on providing seniors with the highest level of in-home care available so that they may live happily and independently.
Unlike some senior care companies, we genuinely want to be included in our clients' lives. We believe that personalized care is always the better option over a "one size fits all" approach. To make sure our senior clients receive the best care possible, we pair them with compassionate caregivers who understand their unique needs. That way, they may provide care accordingly without compromising their wellbeing.
The Always Best Care difference lies in life's little moments - where compassionate care and trustworthy experience come together to help seniors live a fruitful, healthy life. Whether you are an aging adult that can't quite keep up with life's daily tasks or the child of a senior who needs regular in-home services, Always Best Care is here to help.
“I have been working for Always Best care for 1.6 years and my experience has”
“A special shoutout to our primary caregivers: Marie C. and Florette P.. They were outstanding!”
“My working experience with Always best care has been a blessings and a life changing.”
“Terrific company. Management is tops. Very caring staff. I highly recommend them.”
“The dementia class was very helpful,I learned about it ,it was good to know.Thank you”
“I enjoyed learning and understanding the pros and cons of dementia How deal and coupe”
“Good”
“Always Best Care Senior Services in Princeton Junction exceeded our expectations. Their team was kind,”
“Could not have asked for a more caring group of professionals. From care giver to”
“ABC COULD NOT HAVE DONE BETTER IN A CHANGING SITUATION WITH TWO TERMINALLY PATIENTS HAVING”
“Always best care took care of my father for about 10 years..Though my father was”
“ABC and their amazing care givers enabled our Aunt to get her last wish was”
“Mom developed an infection in the afternoon that left her too weak and disoriented to”
“Faithful, Love, and Family.”
“Very professional organization and sent the right aide, Sam, to help me with my father”
“I had a great experience with the agency, Always Best Care! I am attending college,”
“Roberto took care of my husband like he was a member of his family. He”
“The aide's were respectful, reliable and friendly and staff responds timely to calls and needs”
“Everyone was great. I’ve come a long way due to the help of your aides.”
“You have a GEM in Mrs. Terry. She is worth so much more than she”
“Very very helpful, I was desperate when I called and that same day I had”
“We had an exceptionally good experience with Always Best Care during my mother's illness. The”
“Thank you Jahima, Esther, Satta, Myra, Kelly & Susan. Carmen should be pleased. Keep up”
“Words cannot express how grateful my family and I am for the kindness, care, and”
“Gimbert & Carmen were very accommodating and knowledgeable with the needs of my father. They”
“I have been working for Always Best care for 1.6 years and my experience has been nothing but amazing. Although there are some hiccups here and there with cancellation of confirmed shift but regardless, it’s been a pleasure and good experience working for the company.”
“A special shoutout to our primary caregivers: Marie C. and Florette P.. They were outstanding! And extra thanks to Carli, who always came through when we needed backup. Many thanks to the ABC team for all the care you gave to my husband Al H. through 3 years of Parkinson's suffering, and the support you gave me through a hard time.”
“My working experience with Always best care has been a blessings and a life changing. Always best care have been a blessings also to my friends have introduce to the company”
“Terrific company. Management is tops. Very caring staff. I highly recommend them.”
“The dementia class was very helpful,I learned about it ,it was good to know.Thank you”
“I enjoyed learning and understanding the pros and cons of dementia How deal and coupe with the everyday and new behaviors How to help assist respect and enjoy every day life with clients How to help and assist with maintaining their respect. Dignity individuality their purpose of life”
“Good”
“Always Best Care Senior Services in Princeton Junction exceeded our expectations. Their team was kind, attentive, and provided excellent care tailored to our family’s needs. Communication was clear and supportive throughout. We’re so grateful for their compassion and professionalism. Highly recommend them for anyone seeking trusted senior home care in the area!”
“Could not have asked for a more caring group of professionals. From care giver to support staff, they are exceptional”
“ABC COULD NOT HAVE DONE BETTER IN A CHANGING SITUATION WITH TWO TERMINALLY PATIENTS HAVING ALZ AND STAGE IV PANCREATIC CANCER. QUALITY OF CARE TAKER WAS SUPERB AND RESPONSIVENESS TO CHANGING NEEDS PERFECT.”
“Always best care took care of my father for about 10 years..Though my father was very lucid and managed his own care with the agency, I was at his house alot and participated in his care with the aids. They were all very caring and he kindly spoke of the owners being very attentive and offered very personalized care. They even visited him. I am very fond of many of the home health aids..they were loving and concerned. They took their job to another level. I even formed friendships with some of them. The golden years are a very delicate part of our lives. Always best care not only offered good physical care to my father, but unbounded love and compassion !!!! Thank you and he is looking down at us. I'm sure.”
“ABC and their amazing care givers enabled our Aunt to get her last wish was to die in her home. I can’t say enough about how ABC was able to give her a quality of life that she valued as well as provide comfort to her family knowing that she was in good hands with ABC's Caregivers. From the caregivers that always went the extra mile to the fast response we got 24x7 from folks like Carli…you were there for us!”
“Mom developed an infection in the afternoon that left her too weak and disoriented to care for herself for that night. I called Always Best Care Senior Services (ABC) at the very end of the business day, asking if they could find someone for one night of 12-hour private duty care on pretty much an emergency basis. The ABC team went to work and secured a caregiver for mom within a matter of hours for an 8pm-to-8am care shift at mom's senior living community. We had worked with ABC in the past on a scheduled basis, but this experience was above and beyond the call of regular duty and it truly helped us get through a difficult and stressful episode. We would recommend ABC for any and all of your senior care needs.”
“Faithful, Love, and Family.”
“Very professional organization and sent the right aide, Sam, to help me with my father in day to day activities. Sam helps him with gait training and understands dementia care and how to handle care, the way the client needs it. I would not hesitate using this agency and Sam is excellent.”
“I had a great experience with the agency, Always Best Care! I am attending college, and they always provided me an aide that is helpful, considerate, and hardworking. Thank you for always providing me with an aide like Ms. Colleta!!”
“Roberto took care of my husband like he was a member of his family. He was God sent; thank God for him”
“The aide's were respectful, reliable and friendly and staff responds timely to calls and needs”
“Everyone was great. I’ve come a long way due to the help of your aides. Thank you again!”
“You have a GEM in Mrs. Terry. She is worth so much more than she is paid! I miss her. Her help was timely, professional, and invaluable”
“Very very helpful, I was desperate when I called and that same day I had professional help. Tremendous your service”
“We had an exceptionally good experience with Always Best Care during my mother's illness. The management met with us and assigned caregivers almost immediately. As our needs evolved and increased, they were responsive and flexible. The caregivers were well-trained, kind, hard-working, and truly fine people whom we enjoyed having in the house.”
“Thank you Jahima, Esther, Satta, Myra, Kelly & Susan. Carmen should be pleased. Keep up the good work, and be safe!”
“Words cannot express how grateful my family and I am for the kindness, care, and concern that was shown for my husband by the Always Best Care staff. Thank you for the exceptional attention to his comfort, as well as the wonderful insights, strength, knowledge, and emotional support you showed our entire family. Watching someone you love make the transition out of this life is a really difficult thing, and your wisdom and comfort helped us navigate this challenging time. I will always be thankful for the service you provided for him. I would also like to acknowledge the excellent care provided to my husband by Ms. Marie Louisjean. We thank Ms. Louisjean for her incredible patience, tenderness, and attention to his needs. We thank her for being such a dedicated caregiver. God has given her a very special talent and He has blessed her with a compassionate heart. I could not have asked for a more passionate group of people. May God continue to bless the Always Best Care staff as you continue to care for people in need.”
“Gimbert & Carmen were very accommodating and knowledgeable with the needs of my father. They came out to his house and offered suggestions so that he would be able to get around with his walker easily. Their person took great care of my Dad. It is such a relief to my sister and I that we had someone stay with my Dad that was so reliable. I highly recommend them.”
Home is where the heart is. While that saying can sound a tad cliche, it is especially true for many seniors living in America. When given a choice, older adults most often prefer to grow older at home. An AARP study found that three out of four adults over the age of 50 want to stay in their homes and communities as they age.
When you begin to think about why, it makes sense. Home offers a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity.
The truth is, as we age, we begin to rely on others for help. When a family is too busy or lives too far away to fulfill this role, in-home senior care is often the best solution. Home care services allow seniors to enjoy personal independence while also receiving trustworthy assistance from a trained caregiver.
At Always Best Care, we offer a comprehensive range of home care services to help seniors stay healthy while they get the help they need to remain independent. As your senior loved one gets older, giving them the gift of senior care is one of the best ways to show your love, even if you live far away.
To give our senior clients the best care possible, we offer a full spectrum of in-home care services:
If your senior loved one has specific care needs, our personal care services are a great choice to consider. Personal care includes the standard caregiving duties associated with companion care and includes help with tasks such as dressing and grooming. Personal care can also help individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes.
Common personal care services include assistance with:
Sometimes, seniors need helpful reminders to maintain a high quality of life at home. If you or your senior has trouble with everyday tasks like cooking, our home helper services will be very beneficial.
Common home helper care services include assistance with:
Using this kind of care is a fantastic way to make life easier for you or your senior loved one. At Always Best Care, our talented caregivers often fill the role of a companion for seniors. That way, older adults can enjoy their favorite local activities, such as visiting Grayson Highlands State Park with friends while also receiving the care they need daily or weekly.
Common companionship services include:
According to AARP, more than 53 million adults living in the U.S. provide care to someone over 50 years old. Unfortunately, these caregivers experience stress, exhaustion, and even depression. Our respite care services help family caregivers address urgent obligations, spend time with their children, and enjoy nearby activities. Perhaps more importantly, respite care gives family members time to recharge and regroup. Taking personal time to de-stress reduces the risk of caregiver burnout. So, if you've always wanted to eat at the local The Secret Garden or visit Urquhart Castle, don't feel bad. Doing so is great for both you and your loved one.
At the end of the day, our goal is to become a valuable part of your senior's daily routine. That way, we may help give them the highest quality of life possible. We know that staying at home is important for your loved one, and we are here to help make sure that is possible.
If you have been on the fence about non-medical home care, there has never been a better time than now to give your senior the care, assistance, and companionship they deserve.
Always Best Care in-home services are for older adults who prefer to stay at home but need ongoing care that friends and family cannot provide. In-home care is a safe, effective way for seniors to age gracefully in a familiar place and live independent, non-institutionalized lives. The benefits of non-medical home care are numerous. Here are just a few reasons to consider senior care services from Always Best Care:
According to AARP, 9 out of 10 seniors prefer to age in place within the comfort of their own home. With in-home care, seniors have a way to stay at home, receive the care they need, and maintain a sense of independence, improving overall wellness.
If you or a member of your family have assumed the role of caregiver for your senior loved one, you know how stressful the job can be. Between caregiver burnout and constant worry, being a family caregiver is hard. In-home care relieves your burden and gives you peace of mind knowing that your older family member is in expert hands.
Unlike nursing homes, where the staff and residents rotate frequently, seniors can foster new friendships and build bonds with their caregiver. Seniors who socialize on a regular basis are often happier, which fosters positivity and leads to increased wellbeing.
No two seniors need the same kind of in-home care assistance. That is why each of our Care Plans is tailored to meet our client's individual needs. We offer plans that cover everything from light housekeeping to more involved duties like transportation to doctor's appointments. Our Care Coordinators will work closely with you to develop a personalized plan to ensure your senior's needs are exceeded.
Always Best Care offers a full array of care options for patients at all levels of health. With our trusted elderly care services, your loved one will receive the level of care necessary for them to enjoy the highest possible quality of life.
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While it's true that some seniors have complicated medical needs that prevent them from staying at home, aging in place is often the best arrangement for seniors and their families. With a trusted caregiver, seniors have the opportunity to live with a sense of dignity and do so as they see fit - something that is unavailable to many older people today.
In-home care makes it possible for millions of seniors to age in place every year. Rather than moving to a strange nursing home, seniors have the chance to stay at home where they feel the happiest and most comfortable.
How much does a senior's home truly mean to them?
A study published by the American Society on Aging found that more than half of seniors say their home's emotional value means more than how much their home is worth in monetary value. It stands to reason, then, that a senior's home is where they want to grow old.
With the help of elderly care in Highlands, NC, seniors don't have to age in a sterilized care facility. Instead, they can age gracefully in the place they want to be most: their home. In contrast, seniors who move to a long-term care facility must adapt to new environments, new people, and new systems that the facility implements. At this stage in life, this kind of drastic change can be more harmful than helpful.
Institutional care facilities like nursing homes often put large groups of people together to live in one location. On any given day, dozens of staff members and caregivers run in and out of these facilities. Being around so many new people in a relatively small living environment can be dangerous for a seniors' health and wellbeing. When you consider that thousands of seniors passed away in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, opting for in-home care is often a safer, healthier choice for seniors.
Aging in place has been shown to improve seniors' quality of life, which helps boost physical health and also helps insulate them from viral and bacterial risks found in elderly living facilities.
For many seniors, the ability to live independently with assistance from a caregiver is a priceless option. With in-home care, seniors experience a higher level of independence and freedom - much more so than in other settings like a nursing home. When a senior has the chance to age in place, they get to live life on their own terms, inside the house that they helped make into a home. More independence means more control over their personal lives, too, which leads to increased levels of fulfillment, happiness, and personal gratification. Over time, these positive feelings can manifest into a healthier, longer life.
More independence, a healthier life, and increased comfort are only a few benefits of aging in place. You have to take into consideration the role of cost and convenience. Simply put, it's usually easier and more affordable to help seniors age in place than it is to move them into an institutional care facility. According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, seniors who age in the comfort of their homes can save thousands of dollars per month.
In-home care services from Always Best Care, for instance, are often less expensive than long-term solutions, which can cost upwards of six figures per year. To make matters worse, many residential care facilities are reluctant to accept long-term care insurance and other types of payment assistance.
With Always Best Care's home care services, seniors and their families have a greater level of control over their care plans. In-home care gives seniors the chance to form a bond with a trusted caregiver and also receive unmatched care that is catered to their needs. In long-term care facilities, seniors and their loved ones have much less control over their care plan and have less of a say in who provides their care.
In-home care is a valuable resource that empowers seniors to age in place on their own terms. However, a big concern for many families and their loved ones is how much in-home care costs. If you're worried that in-home care is too expensive, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that it is one of the most affordable senior care arrangements available.
Typically, hiring an Always Best Care in-home caregiver for a few hours a week is more affordable than sending your loved one to a long-term care facility. This is true even for seniors with more complex care needs.
At Always Best Care, we will work closely with you and your family to develop a Care Plan that not only meets your care needs, but your budget requirements, too. Once we discover the level of care that you or your senior need, we develop an in-home care plan that you can afford.
In addition to our flexible care options, families should also consider the following resources to help offset potential home care costs:
When you or your senior loved one needs assistance managing daily tasks at home, finding a qualified caregiver can be challenging. It takes a special kind of person to provide reliable care for your senior loved one. However, a caregiver's role involves more than meal preparation and medication reminders. Many seniors rely on their caregivers for companionship, too.
Our companion care services give seniors the chance to socialize in a safe environment and engage in activities at home. These important efforts boost morale and provide much-needed relief from repetitive daily routines. A one-on-one, engaging conversation can sharpen seniors' minds and give them something in which to be excited.
At Always Best Care, we only hire care providers that we would trust to care for our own loved ones. Our senior caregivers in Highlands, NC understand how important it is to listen and communicate with their seniors. A seemingly small interaction, like a short hug goodbye, can make a major difference in a senior's day. Instead of battling against feelings of isolation, seniors begin to look forward to seeing their caregiver each week.
Understanding the nuances of senior care is just one of the reasons why our care providers are so great at their job.
Unlike some senior care companies, our caregivers must undergo extensive training before they work for Always Best Care. In addition, our caregivers receive ongoing training throughout the year. This training ensures that their standard of care matches up to the high standards we've come to expect. During this training, they will brush up on their communication skills, safety awareness, and symptom spotting. That way, your loved one receives the highest level of non-medical home care from day one.
While it's true that many seniors prefer to age at home, sometimes in-home care isn't the best fit. For those seniors and their families, choosing an assisted living facility makes more sense. Unfortunately, finding the optimal care facility is easier said than done in today's day and age. That's when Always Best Care's assisted living referral services begin to make a lot of sense.
Assisted living is a form of housing intended for seniors who require varying degrees of medical and personal attention. Accommodations may include single rooms, apartments, or shared living arrangements. Assisted living communities are typically designed to resemble a home-like environment and are physically constructed to encourage the independence of residents.
At assisted living communities, seniors receive help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating. They may also benefit from coordination of services with outside healthcare providers, and monitoring of resident activities to ensure their health, safety, and well-being. Caregivers who work at assisted living communities can also provide medication administration and personal care services for older adults.
Other services offered within assisted living communities can include some or all of the following:
At Always Best Care, our representatives can match your senior's emotional, physical, and financial needs with viable assisted living communities nearby. Results are based on comparative data, so you can select the best choice for you or your loved one.
Always Best Care works closely with local senior living communities to gain valuable knowledge that we then use to help seniors and their loved ones make informed decisions. This information can include basic care and rent, resident availability, and services provided. Because Always Best Care is compensated by these communities, we provide senior living referral services at no extra cost to you.
Some of the most popular assisted living communities to consider in our area include the following:
For many seniors, moving into a senior living community revolves around how and when they want to make a transition to more involved care. Some seniors are more proactive about transitioning to independent living. Others choose to remain home until their care needs or other requirements are satisfied. Remember - our staff is here to help. Contact our office today to learn more about assisted living communities and how we can find a facility that exceeds your expectations.
The first step in getting quality in-home care starts with a personal consultation with an experienced Always Best Care Care Coordinator. This initial consultation is crucial for our team to learn more about you or your elderly loved one to discover the level of care required. Topics of this consultation typically include:
A discussion of your needs and how our trained caregivers can offer assistance in the most effective way
A draft of your care plan, which includes highly detailed notes and a framework for the care that you or your senior will receive
Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider
Our caregivers are trained to spot changes that clients exhibit, like mental and physical decline. As your trusted senior care company, we will constantly assess and update your Care Plan to meet any new emotional, intellectual, physical, and emotional needs.
If you have never considered in-home care before, we understand that you and your family may have concerns about your Care Plan and its Care Coordinator. To help give you peace of mind, know that every team member and caregiver must undergo comprehensive training before being assigned to a Care Plan.
At the end of the day, we only hire the best of the best at Always Best Care. Whether you need home care in Highlands, NC 24-hours a day or only need a respite for a couple of hours, we are here to serve you.
When you're ready, we encourage you to contact your local Always Best Care representative to set up a Care Consultation. Our Care Coordinators would be happy to meet with you in person to get to know you better, discuss your needs, and help put together a personalized Care Plan specific to your needs.
With its The Marvelous Wonderettes, Mountain Theatre Company serves up a radiant explosion of nostalgia, harmony, and heart – a true delight for anyone seeking an afternoon or evening of feel-good entertainment.Set against the backdrop of a 1958 high school prom and a later (more shadowed) 10-year reunion, The Marvelous Wonderettes whisks audiences away on a delightful journey through pop music history. Featuring hits from the ‘50s and ‘60s, the show serves up a jukebox of timeless classics like “Lollipop,&rdqu...
With its The Marvelous Wonderettes, Mountain Theatre Company serves up a radiant explosion of nostalgia, harmony, and heart – a true delight for anyone seeking an afternoon or evening of feel-good entertainment.
Set against the backdrop of a 1958 high school prom and a later (more shadowed) 10-year reunion, The Marvelous Wonderettes whisks audiences away on a delightful journey through pop music history. Featuring hits from the ‘50s and ‘60s, the show serves up a jukebox of timeless classics like “Lollipop,” “Dream Lover,” and “It’s My Party.” But this isn’t just a concert – it’s a heartfelt story of friendship, love, and self-discovery, told through the lens of four unforgettable characters.
The Mountain Theatre Company has pulled out all the stops to bring this production to life. From the moment the lights dimmed, and the four talented performers took the stage, the audience was swept up in the magic. Each actor brought a unique sparkle to their role, embodying their characters with authenticity, humor, and charisma. Their chemistry was palpable, and their voices – oh, their voices – blended, in exquisite harmony that sent chills down the spine. It was impossible not to smile (and occasionally sing along) as they recreated these beloved hits with energy and flair.
Catara Brae brings a vibrant energy to the character of Missy. Known for her powerful voice and dynamic stage presence, Catara’s song choices often include upbeat and soulful numbers that showcase her vocal range and ability to connect with the audience. Her “Secret Love” – reveals her crush on her off-limits Mr. Lee, and the clandestine relationship is limned through “Wedding Bell Blues” and “With This Ring.” She’s somehow channeling the young Aretha Franklin with her astonishing range and unexpected display of raw vocal power on “You Don’t Own Me,” a performance that made me gasp!
Abigail Gordiany portrays Betty Jean with brilliant comic beats and a charming and heartfelt performance. Her song choices typically feature classic hits and emotional ballads that highlight her expressive singing style and ability to convey deep emotions through her music. As evidence, consider her unfiltered “I Only Want to Be With You,” “That’s When the Tears Start” and “It’s My Party.” Betty Jean’s venting to a castmate who’s covertly playing with her boyfriend, “Lipstick on Your Collar” – is a cri de cœur with exquisite comic timing.
Erin Leigh Knowles captures the essence of Suzy with her delightful and engaging performance. Her song selections often include playful and catchy tunes that reflect her character’s fun-loving personality. She dazzles with “Stupid Cupid” – bubbly and flirtatious, dedicated to her prom date Ritchie and continues to enchant with “Hold Me, Thrill Me, Kiss Me,” and “Maybe I Know.” She finds her inner Aretha with “Rescue Me,” raw, full-throated and drenched with heart-felt passion blended with a dash of pathos; and brings it all home with “Respect.” That last is an anthem for the ages, and Ms. Knowles extracts every bit of conviction from its clarion call lyrics.
Jillian Worthing brings a captivating presence to the role of Cindy Lou. Her song choices usually consist of nostalgic and melodic pieces that emphasize her smooth vocals and ability to evoke a sense of nostalgia and warmth in her audience. Cindy Lou is a nonchalant Mae West, a player for the ages before the world knew the word “player.” (Though this breed of coquettes has been reliable chaos agents since the days of Eve, with her friendly curves and silver-tongued words and sweet, sweet temptations.) She slinks and simmers through “Lucky Lips” (a paeon to her confidence and charm), “Leader of the Pack,” and “Maybe.” And let’s face it, her “Son of a Preacher Man,” is enough to, in the immortal words of Raymond Chandler (who knew plenty about Cindy Lous) “make a bishop kick a hole in a stained-glass window.”
The staging and design were equally commendable. The set, with its vibrant streamers and vintage prom decor, was a trip down memory lane. Costume changes dazzled the eye, with each outfit meticulously capturing the era’s style while reflecting each character’s personality.
Attention to detail was everywhere, from the clever lighting cues that underscored emotional moments to the playful choreography that had the entire theater tapping their toes.
Perhaps what makes The Marvelous Wonderettes so special, though, is its heart. Beneath the glitz and catchy tunes lies a touching narrative about life’s ups and downs and the enduring power of friendship. The Mountain Theatre Company has tapped into this emotional core with sensitivity and grace, ensuring that, while audiences are entertained, they’re also deeply moved.
By the time the final curtain fell, the standing ovation was inevitable. Laughter, nostalgia, and a few tears filled the room as the cast took their well-deserved bows. It’s rare to find a show that so seamlessly combines entertainment with genuine emotional resonance, but this production achieves it with aplomb.
The Marvelous Wonderettes isn’t just a musical – it’s a celebration of the moments and melodies that bring us together.
And like its playbill brother Forever Plaid, Wonderettes at first registers as light pop entertainment, as insubstantial as a cotton candy souffle, yet through the nuanced performances of its quartet it acquires an emotional heft that cannot be denied.
For those who haven’t yet experienced this treasure, do yourself a favor and grab a ticket – visit mountaintheatre.com or call (828) 526-2695.
When Wonderettes is paired with its playbill brother Forever Plaid, you can be certain that Mountain Theatre Company is providing the Plateau with entertainment that’s destined to lodge in your heart and the playful part of your brain.
Inside: Local mom reviews Highlands, NC, and shares all of the best spots to eat, explore, and relax! You’ll also find recommendations of places to stay and the best things to do in Highlands, NC.We recently spent the weekend in Highlands, North Carolina, and had the best time together as a family! If you’re looking for some fun things to do in Highlands, NC, then this quaint mountain town is perfect for a weekend trip or even a day trip. Highlands, NC, is a small town, but there are so many things to enjo...
Inside: Local mom reviews Highlands, NC, and shares all of the best spots to eat, explore, and relax! You’ll also find recommendations of places to stay and the best things to do in Highlands, NC.
We recently spent the weekend in Highlands, North Carolina, and had the best time together as a family! If you’re looking for some fun things to do in Highlands, NC, then this quaint mountain town is perfect for a weekend trip or even a day trip. Highlands, NC, is a small town, but there are so many things to enjoy! Here is what I would suggest you do in Highlands, whether you’re there for a short trip or a long trip!
The first thing I recommend you do is go straight to Downtown Highlands. Highlands, NC, is a small town, so the downtown area is where you will find the bulk of your “things to do”. This area makes you feel like you’re walking around the set of your favorite Hallmark movie. From the flower beds lining the streets to the storefronts, all perfectly curated for the summer season, it all makes you feel enchanted.
There is ample parking, although it does get busy on the weekends, and all the parking areas were free where we parked. Once you park, you can walk up and down the streets where you’ll find high-end shopping, a toy store, many restaurants, and more. Most of the shops closed at around 5 pm, so be sure to check their websites and social media pages before heading downtown. Here is a list of our favorite shops and restaurants:
There are so many more shops and places to eat that we didn’t venture inside, so there is certainly something for everyone to explore in downtown Highlands. We saw lots of spas and golf courses to enjoy as well.
In addition to the restaurants downtown, we also had dinner at Highlands Supper Club. It was so good that I have given the Supper Club its own section in this article. When you arrive, you walk through a quaint yard with outdoor tables that leads into an old log cabin house. This cabin was built by local legend Joe Webb. Webb was a renowned home builder and carpenter who specialized in building rustic log cabins that were known for their intricate designs. The inside was so beautiful, and they have preserved the cabin perfectly. The food here was the best food we had the entire trip.
????Hot Tip: Order the Biscuits! For our appetizers, we ordered biscuits with honey butter and a side of the burnt pork ends. We haven’t stopped thinking about those biscuits since that evening we enjoyed them. The biscuits melted in your mouth, and the honey butter was so fluffy. If I could have those delivered to my doorstep today, I would.
We really love any kind of burnt pork ends, so they were much enjoyed as well. The drink menu had many options, whether you were looking for a cocktail, soda, glass of wine, or tea. We had water and cocktails, while the kids had Sprite. When the main courses came, they were really large portions and divine. I had fried chicken and collard greens while my husband had the elk tenderloin with cheddar grits. Then we shared a family-style macaroni and cheese as another side.
Our children ordered the kids’ cavatappi pasta with fries and said it was good. The food was so delicious that we didn’t have room for dessert, but the kids got a bowl each of homemade vanilla bean ice cream, which my husband said was fresh and delicious. This is a must-visit!
Highlands, NC is pretty well-known for its hiking trails and waterfalls. We are not a big hiking family simply because our kids are just now getting to the age where they can hang for miles and miles. This trip was a great introduction to hiking for them.
We headed to Highlands Aerial Park to see the hidden waterfall. Highlands Aerial Park offers zip-lining, several hiking trails, and adventure courses. They have a trail that goes to a waterfall and a trail that goes to a suspension bridge, so we did both! We did not do any of the ziplining or other activities, but they did look fun (if you like heights). Each hike was a little under a mile both ways.
The BEST part of this experience was that while the kids were hiking with us, they had to look out for a very specific gnome. This gnome would win them a prize back at the base station, so they had a blast looking for him. Every single part of the trail had the most intricate detail worked into the landscape. There were so many fairy houses, gnome sculptures, and hidden faux insects peppered along the trail. It was so neat!
Other outdoor adventures near Highlands, NC include:
We lucked out and caught the annual Highlands Motor Show the weekend we were there. It gave the town even more southern charm as we strolled through the lines of classic cars with our warm coffees in hand. It turns out that the Highlands Motoring Festival is an annual festival. It was free to attend. They had several vendors set up, and they even chose a winning car. In addition to this event, they have an extensive list of other annual events and festivals that you can attend. The Highlands Performing Arts Center is rather popular. Check out the Highlands Chamber of Commerce events page to stay current on their upcoming events.
We opted for a rustic cabin in the woods and had a really great time there. There are a few boutique-style hotels downtown as well that we saw. Here is a list of the boutique hotels we noticed while walking around. If you don’t want to stay downtown, you can search for private rentals online.
Lastly, if you want to take another adventure about 30 minutes outside of Highlands, NC, you can go to Julep Farms in Dillard, GA! Read our Kidding Around Review of Julep Farms! If you visit Highlands Aerial Park, you can keep driving up the road and head to Julep Farms!
Have you been to Highlands, North Carolina?
Summer brings visitors to Western North Carolina in droves. It's no wonder the region dominates entries on a new list of the most scenic towns in the state.Founded in 1994 by cartographer John Moen and his wife, Chris Woolwine-Moen, WorldAtlas publishes educational materials and articles on geography, sociology, demography, environment, economics, politics, and travel.The publication has given attention to WNC many times, including ...
Summer brings visitors to Western North Carolina in droves. It's no wonder the region dominates entries on a new list of the most scenic towns in the state.
Founded in 1994 by cartographer John Moen and his wife, Chris Woolwine-Moen, WorldAtlas publishes educational materials and articles on geography, sociology, demography, environment, economics, politics, and travel.
The publication has given attention to WNC many times, including coolest towns for summer vacations, most beautiful drives and strangest attractions this year alone. A new list, honoring nine towns as the most scenic in N.C., includes almost exclusively areas located right here in WNC.
Here's what writers say about the WNC towns, plus the whole list of N.C. towns.
"Blowing Rock is a mountain town that feels painted into the landscape," WorldAtlas writers say about the town. "Perched along the Blue Ridge Parkway, the town offers endless views across the sweeping valleys below."
Writers also appreciate the following in Blowing Rock:
"Bryson City offers one of the most immersive nature experiences in North Carolina," WorldAtlas writers say about the town. "Just steps from the southern entrance of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the town is surrounded by thick forests, misty ridges, and the ever-changing drama of the mountains."
Writers also appreciate the following in Bryson City:
"Highlands feels like it’s floating above the rest of the world," WorldAtlas writers say about the town. "At over 4,000 feet in elevation, the town is surrounded by towering peaks, lush hardwood forests, and cascading waterfalls."
Like Bryson City, WorldAtlas writers appreciate the closeness of Highlands to the Nantahala National Forest. Writers also appreciate the following:
"Lake Lure is a place where water and mountains meet in a gentle embrace," WorldAtlas writers say about the town. Surrounded by the Blue Ridge foothills, the lake itself gleams like a mirror beneath the North Carolina sun."
Much like recent recognition on a USA TODAY 10BEST Readers' Choice list, WorldAtlas includes Lake Lure on the list despite the severe damage the area suffered during Tropical Storm Helene. Acknowledging that the lake and well-known Flowering Bridge remain closed, writers appreciate the following in Lake Lure:
"Saluda feels like a mountain tale come to life - tucked neatly into the forested ridges and perched just above the breathtaking Green River Gorge," WorldAtlas writers say about the town.
Writers also appreciate the following in Saluda:
"Banner Elk is a quiet mountain haven surrounded by some of North Carolina's tallest peaks," WorldAtlas writers say about the town. "The air here is crisp, and the sky feels slightly closer."
Writers also appreciate the following in Banner Elk:
"This little town is in the unspoiled wilderness of the Pisgah National Forest, and it’s one of the only places in North Carolina where the Appalachian Trail runs directly through town," WorldAtlas writers say about the town. "Plenty of trails wind through fern-carpeted woods, past ancient boulders and clear mountain streams."
Though Hot Springs was another area that took serious blows at the hands of Helene, writers appreciate the following about the town:
The full list of WorldAtlas's picks for the state's nine most scenic towns:
Iris Seaton is the trending news reporter for the Asheville Citizen Times, part of the USA TODAY Network. Reach her at [email protected].
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