If you’ve ever heard of High Point, North Carolina, odds are it was in the same sentence as the word “furniture.” And hey—we’re proud of that. After all, this charming city is known as the “Furniture Capital of the World.” But High Point has more than sofas and showrooms up its sleeve. Whether you’re a local, a road-tripper, or just curious, High Point’s mix of history, quirk, and small-town charm is worth a closer look.
A Little Backstory
High Point got its name because it was the highest point along the North Carolina Railroad when it was completed in the 1850s. The town quickly became a hub for manufacturing, with furniture taking center stage in the early 20th century. By the 1920s, it was the go-to place for well-crafted American furniture—and twice a year, the city still hosts High Point Market, the world’s largest home furnishings trade show.
But don’t let the showroom floors fool you—High Point is full of surprises.
5 Unusual (and Totally Fun) Things to Do in High Point
- Snap a Selfie at the World’s Largest Chest of Drawers
Yes, it’s real. Yes, it’s 36 feet tall. This oversized, sock-dangling piece of public art is a beloved High Point landmark that pays homage to the city’s furniture legacy with a quirky twist. You haven’t really been to High Point until you’ve stood in front of it. - Explore Castle McCulloch (Yes, a Real Castle)
Just on the edge of High Point sits this unexpected gem—a gold refinery-turned-medieval-style castle built in the 1830s. Today, it’s an event venue with turrets, drawbridges, and annual Renaissance Faires. It’s a time-traveling experience tucked right into the Piedmont. - Get Lost in the World’s Largest Furniture Store
Furnitureland South isn’t just a store—it’s a furniture theme park. Clocking in at over 1.3 million square feet, it has a 30-foot-tall highboy dresser at the entrance and more home inspiration than you could dream up. Whether you’re shopping or just want to ogle the decor, it’s a must-see. - Visit the High Point Museum’s Little Red Schoolhouse
Tucked in the museum’s Historical Park is an actual one-room schoolhouse from the 1930s. It’s pint-sized, charming, and full of stories from the past. Bonus: the museum also celebrates the legacy of jazz legend John Coltrane, who once called High Point home. - Sip and Stroll at Brown Truck Brewery
This award-winning craft brewery is perfect for an afternoon hang. Their outdoor space is cozy, dog-friendly, and often filled with live music. Try a flight of their seasonal brews and soak up the laid-back vibes—this is how High Point unwinds.
So, is High Point Worth a Stop?
Absolutely. It’s a city that blends tradition with whimsy, industry with artistry. Whether you’re here for a market, a castle, or a giant chest of drawers, High Point proves that even small cities can make a big impression.
