Hayesville, a quaint North Carolina town, is situated near the state’s border with Georgia. Hayesville was once the home of numerous Native American tribes, including the Cherokees. It also held part of the Trading Path which was used during early America as a way to get around the Piedmont region. This small town features many unique attractions, including historic farms, vineyards, and art studios.
Walnut Hollow Ranch
Walnut Hollow Ranch gives guests a unique agritourism experience. Offering stunning views of the Smoky Mountains, the ranch teaches visitors about the hundreds of black Angus cattle that roam the surrounding fields and how they are raised with the best welfare standards and without the use of hormones and antibiotics. Walnut Hollow Ranch also tirelessly works to help protect the environment by using various methods that conserve energy and water.
Tours are available of the grounds with stops by the farm’s gift shop where fresh beef can be bought. Campers and RVers can also stay at the ranch’s campground which has numerous amenities, such as hiking trails.
Address: Walnut Hollow Ranch, 1100 Carter Cove Road Hayesville, North Carolina 28904, Phone: 828-389-8931
Old Jail Museum
Situated inside the town’s former jail, the Old Jail Museum tells the history of Hayesville and about some of the notorious criminals who were once locked away inside its cells. This 1912 building features most of the original jail cells, furniture, and other items that were used by the sheriff.
The museum houses a collection of vintage photographs of the town as well as Cherokee artwork, quilts, and baskets. Visitors can also step into a connecting building which was used by a local doctor and features his medical instruments, desk, and log books.
Address: Old Jail Museum, 21 Davis Loop Hayesville, North Carolina 28904, Phone: 828-389-6814
Peacock Performing Arts Center
The Peacock Performing Arts Center is designed to celebrate the local arts and culture. The center was created in the 1980s and puts on many performances throughout the year which range from plays to concerts. Its theater holds over 250 seats and has an impressive lighting and sound system for its size.
There are many special classes held during the year guests can sign up for here, including those that teach acting, ballroom dancing, and singing. The center offers season packages that come with their own discounts and perks.
Address: Peacock Performing Arts Center, 301 Church Street Hayesville, North Carolina 29804, Phone: 828-389-2787
Goldhagen Art Glass
Goldhagen Art Glass displays the vibrant glass creations of David Goldhagen. His pieces, which include vases, furniture, and fountains, are known for their quirky curves and swirling color palettes. The gallery is open for tours Monday to Saturday and includes a behind-the-scenes look at Goldhagen using kilns and torches to make his art. Items can be bought at the gallery and shipped all over the world. Visitors can also have a piece commissioned. During the summer, Goldhagen Art Glass hosts a summer music festival that celebrates the arts.
Address: Goldhagen Art Glass, 7 Goldhagen Studio Drive Hayesville, North Carolina 28904, Phone: 828-389-8847
Molly & Me Antiques
Molly & Me Antiques, a long-time favorite for antiquers, was purchased in 2010 by Carol Moffit as a way to help keep its legacy alive. The antique store is located in the middle of Hayesville’s downtown center and sells a spectacular amount of vintage items such as pottery, glass, furniture, clocks, linens, and books. When shoppers step inside this small cozy store they’ll be able to browse for items on their own or chat with Moffit to learn more behind the intriguing history of the items being sold.
Address: Molly & Me Antiques, 892 US-64 BUS, Hayesville, North Carolina 28904, Phone: 828-361-3364
Chevelle’s Restaurant & Bar 69
This restaurant and bar is a hidden gem in this tiny town. Featuring a motorsports theme, Chevelle’s Restaurant & Bar 69 is a family-run business that focuses on using fresh and local ingredients in its meals. The restaurant is known for making its own salad dressings, soups, and desserts. Its vast menu offers something for all tastes, such as cheesy pasta, colorful salads, and juicy hamburgers. Diners will be able to consume their meals while listening to live entertainment throughout the week. The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner and also has a catering service.
Address: Chevelle’s Restaurant & Bar 69, 983 NC Highway 69, Hayesville North Carolina 28904, Phone: 828-389-6069
Cherokee Homestead Exhibit
Hayesville is located in what was once a thriving Cherokee tribal valley. Today visitors can brush up their knowledge about the Cherokee Nation when they explore the 2-mile Quanassee Path, which links five Cherokee heritage sites. Possibly the most interesting of these sites is the Cherokee Homestead Exhibit where you can get a glimpse of what everyday life was like back during the 17th century.
The outdoor exhibit contains replicas of several buildings including a summer house, a winter house, mound gardens, a dugout canoe and a corn crib. Adjacent to the Homestead Exhibit you will find the Clay County Historical and Art Museum which further showcases Cherokee art and culture.
Address: Cherokee Homestead Exhibit, 21 Davis Loop, Hayesville, NC 28904, 828 415 1623
