Brad Firestine Marketing Technology Specialist/NC Broker

High Point, North Carolina, is a unique city nestled in the Piedmont Triad region alongside Greensboro and Winston-Salem. It is a community deeply rooted in manufacturing, design, and education.

1. Why is it called "High Point"?

The Answer:

The city was founded in 1859 and named quite literally because it was the highest geographic point along the newly constructed North Carolina Railroad line running between Goldsboro and Charlotte. Because of this prime position at the highest intersection of the rails and the historic Fayetteville-to-Salem plank road, it naturally became a massive hub for trade and industry.

2. What is High Point most famous for?

The Answer:

High Point is globally recognized as the "Home Furnishings Capital of the World™." By the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the surrounding abundance of timber and excellent rail access made it the epicenter of American woodworking and furniture manufacturing. Today, it hosts the biannual High Point Market, the world's largest home furnishings trade show. Every April and October, the event draws more than 75,000 international designers, buyers, and exhibitors, temporarily expanding the city's population. It is also home to the famous World's Largest Chest of Drawers, a 36-foot-tall functional building facade honoring the city's heritage.

3. Can the general public shop at the High Point Market?

The Answer:

No, the actual High Point Market event is strictly "to the trade only," meaning it is closed to the general public and requires professional industry credentials (designers, buyers, showroom exhibitors) to enter. However, because the area is a furniture mecca, visitors can shop year-round at the roughly 80 retail furniture stores and clearance outlets scattered across the region. This includes Furnitureland South (located just down the road in Jamestown), which holds the title of the largest furniture store in the nation.

4. What is there to do in High Point outside of furniture?

The Answer:

While furniture is its claim to fame, High Point has evolved into a diverse cultural and family destination. Key highlights include:

• The Nido & Mariana Qubein Children’s Museum: Named one of the top visitor attractions in the state, featuring highly interactive, hands-on learning spaces.

• High Point University: Known for its striking, meticulously landscaped campus and dynamic growth.

• Sports and Downtown Life: Truist Point stadium anchors a revitalized, walkable downtown district and serves as the home turf for the High Point Rockers baseball team and Carolina Core FC soccer club.

• Arts & Inclusion: The city hosts the annual John Coltrane International Jazz & Blues Festival (honoring the jazz legend who grew up here) and is officially designated as a Certified Autism Destination, ensuring accessible and sensory-friendly local attractions.