Summer is in full swing! School is out, the pools are open, and we’re all looking to make the best memories. We’ve gathered some of the best places in High Point to make this summer one you will never forget! Whether you’re looking for sweet treats, places for the adults to kick back on those warm summer evenings, or the best ways to tire out those kiddos, read on because we’ve gathered just that for you!
1. Check out High Point's Certified Autism Centers!
High Point recently announced its new designation as a Certified Autism Destination! This was made possible through the commitment and training of local attractions, restaurants, hotels, recreational facilities and civic organizations. The staff at these local businesses are trained to welcome those on the autism spectrum or with sensory-sensitivities and their families. Be sure to check out our two-day itinerary featuring these inclusive partners. Checking out High Point’s Certified Autism Centers is the key to a perfect summer!
2. Get social during Social Saturday!
High Point launched Social Saturday this past May! Social Saturday takes place the first Saturday of each month throughout Uptowne and Downtown High Point. Your favorite restaurants, shops, and bars will have everything from drink specials to live music. The best part? The free trolly rides! Hop on a trolly at one of the stops and ride it to other exciting destinations throughout Uptowne and Downtown High Point. Be sure to check out Downtown High Point’s Facebook page to stay informed on what’s in store for the next Social Saturday.
3. Fuel up with refreshing summer treats!
When the temperatures start rising, you and your family will be craving something sweet AND refreshing and High Point has what you’re looking for! Be transported to the beach with Sunset Slush’s delicious Italian ice or travel back in time with the soda-shop style of Mayberry’s Ice Cream Parlor. If you and your crew prefer to be refreshed with some boba tea, Tea Time Lounge has what you’re looking for! Also, be sure to check out Miso’s Ice Cream and Pop’s Mini Doughnuts for some out-of-this-world milkshake creations!
4. Hit up a local brewery, winery, or bar!
High Point has many amazing local wineries, breweries, and bars for you to relax at during those warm summer evenings. Kick back on Brown Truck Brewery’s patio, try a locally crafted wine or mead from High Point’s urban winery Nomad Wine Works, or explore the incredible beer and wine selection at the Brewer’s Kettle! A summer in High Point wouldn’t be complete without sampling local NC beer at Paddled South Brewing Co. or Goofy Foot Taproom and Brewery.
5. Explore High Point's parks, trails, and greenways!
High Point has beautiful green spaces for you and your family to explore. Whether you run on the paved greenway or explore City Lake Park on the newly constructed bridge, there is an outdoor experience for you! High Point’s many parks and trails can be explored using the Piedmont Discovery app, where you can filter by terrain, difficulty, and amenities. Get some exercise, explore nature, and spend quality time with loved ones.
6. Slip and slide at High Point City Lake Park
City Lake Park is your one-stop-shop for summer fun! The City Lake Park reopened Memorial Day Weekend 2023 after undergoing a massive renovation. The updates include a splash pad, a lazy river, three water slides, and more. The pool is open seven days a week and tickets can be purchased in advance for $10 for High Point and Jamestown residents and $15 for non-residents. City Lake Park pool also offers swimming lessons and party rentals.
7. Head to the ballpark!
There’s nothing quite like spending a summer evening at a ball game! The High Point Rockers and Truist Point Stadium are here to make sure your summer experience is complete with fireworks, ball park food, a splash pad, and an exciting game at our beautiful stadium. Be sure to check out their Facebook page to see what unique experiences each game has in store from giveaways and Thirsty Thursday to Christmas in July and Dino Night!
8. Beat the heat!
Everyone knows that summer heat is no joke, but High Point has you covered! Head indoors with some of the area’s best attractions and know that your kiddos are still going to be worn out when it’s time to head home. The Nido & Mariana Qubein Children’s Museum, Q’s Corner, and Distractions Art Studio offer air-conditioned spaces where you and your family can still make those wonderful summer memories.
9. Try something new at the lake!
Head to Oak Hollow Marina or City Lake Park to test your kayak, paddleboard, or even sailboat skills! You can rent kayaks, paddleboards, canoes and sailboats to explore the lakes on your own or with a group. Take in the beautiful scenery while trying something new! City Lake Park also offers pontoon boat tours if you would prefer to take in the scenery while lounging. Both parks also allow fishing and offer picnic areas.
10. Check out High Point's live music scene!
High Point is quickly becoming a destination for live music! Be sure to check out Ziggy’s at Stock + Grain—they feature multiple bands performing on their stages, along with delicious eats and drinks from the restaurant vendors. High Point Arts Council is hosting Arts Splash Summer Concert Series—this series of pop-up concerts will take place at different venues throughout Jamestown and High Point with a variety of bands that will appeal to just about every musical preference. COHAB.SPACE will have live music acts throughout the summer at their unique venue—including Sam Bush and Moon Taxi.
11. Jam out at the 12th Annual Jazz Festival!
The John Coltrane International Jazz & Blues Festival takes place every Labor Day Weekend and his year will be the 12th iteration of the festival. Every year hundreds of people gather on the water at the Oak Hollow Lake Festival Park to jam out to jazz musicians, enjoy delicious soul food from food trucks, and browse the booths of local vendors and artisans. This year’s lineup is already looking exciting, including Keb’ Mo’, Dave Koz, and Samara Joy. With the John Coltrane International Jazz & Blues Festival each year is better than the last and this year is sure to be no different.
12. Experience The Black Luxe Expo!
The Black Luxe Expo is a free community tradeshow created by local celebrity, Whitney Middlebrooks. This annual event features hundreds of vendors from all across the southeast. This one-day festival will have cultural performances, food trucks, shopping, and endless networking opportunities. This year’s Black Luxe Expo will take place Saturday, September 9th from 2 pm to 8 pm. It is free and family-friendly and you don’t want to miss it!
For more exciting events and happenings, check out High Point’s events calendar to find more fun summer activities and events!