Looking for a peaceful mountain escape with small-town charm? Head to Hayesville! Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains near Lake Chatuge, Hayesville offers scenic beauty, historic attractions, and a relaxed Appalachian vibe. Whether you’re exploring trails, tasting local wine, or enjoying live music on the square, Hayesville is a hidden gem of western North Carolina.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Hayesville is during spring through fall (April–October). Spring brings wildflowers and crisp mornings, summer is perfect for lake fun and festivals, and fall offers stunning mountain foliage and harvest events. Winter is quiet and cozy with occasional snow.

How to Get There

  • If you are traveling by car: Hayesville is located off U.S. Route 64, about 2 hours from Asheville and 2.5 hours from Atlanta.
  • By Air: The closest major airports are Asheville Regional Airport (AVL) and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), both within a 2–3 hour drive.
  • By Scenic Drive: The Cherohala Skyway, Blue Ridge Parkway, and U.S. 64 provide picturesque mountain routes to reach Hayesville.

Where to Stay

  • The Ridges Resort on Lake Chatuge (nearby in Hiawassee) – Upscale lakeside resort with mountain views, marina access, and dining.
  • Chinquapin Cabin Rentals – Cozy mountain cabins with fireplaces, porches, and wooded serenity.
  • Airbnb & VRBO Rentals – Lakeside cottages, mountain-view homes, and charming farm stays throughout Clay County.

Top Attractions

Tour a Working Farm and Shop Local Meats at Walnut Hollow Ranch

Tour a Working Farm and Shop Local Meats at Walnut Hollow Ranch

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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

Step Into the Past at the Old Jail Museum

Step Into the Past at the Old Jail Museum

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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

Activities and Attractions for Couples:

Enjoy Live Entertainment at the Peacock Performing Arts Center

Enjoy Live Entertainment at the Peacock Performing Arts Center

© 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

Marvel at Vibrant Creations at Goldhagen Art Glass Studio

Marvel at Vibrant Creations at Goldhagen Art Glass Studio

© 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

Hunt for Treasures at Molly & Me Antiques

Hunt for Treasures at Molly & Me Antiques

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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

Dine, Drink, and Unwind at Chevelle’s Restaurant & Bar 69

Dine, Drink, and Unwind at Chevelle’s Restaurant & Bar 69

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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

Learn Native American History at the Cherokee Homestead Exhibit

Learn Native American History at the Cherokee Homestead Exhibit

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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

Must-see if you are a first-time visitor:

  • Lake Chatuge – Boating, fishing, kayaking, and lakeside picnicking surrounded by forested hills.
  • Jackrabbit Mountain Trails – Over 14 miles of multi-use trails for hiking and mountain biking near the lake.
  • Clay County Historic Courthouse – Beautifully restored centerpiece of downtown with events, shops, and photo ops.
  • Eagle Fork Vineyards – Family-owned winery offering tastings, mountain views, and live music on weekends.

Where to Eat

  • Shoebooties Café – Local favorite serving steaks, seafood, burgers, and Southern comfort food downtown.
  • Hayesville Brewing Company – Craft brews and casual bites with frequent live music and outdoor seating.
  • Anejo Grill – Festive Mexican restaurant with hearty dishes and margaritas, right on Main Street.

If you are interested in local events:

  • Hayesville Friday Night Concert Series (Summer) – Free live music on the town square featuring local and regional acts.
  • Festival on the Square (July) – Independence Day celebration with crafts, food vendors, music, and fireworks.
  • Clay County Fall Festival (October) – Family-friendly autumn event with pumpkin patches, crafts, and Appalachian heritage displays.

If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes of Hayesville, North Carolina:

  • Hiawassee, Georgia (20–25 min) – Visit the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds, hike Bell Mountain, or shop local markets.
  • Brasstown Bald (30 min) – Drive or hike to Georgia’s highest point for panoramic mountain views.
  • John C. Campbell Folk School (30 min) – Located in nearby Brasstown, offering traditional crafts, music, and cultural events.
  • Fires Creek Recreation Area (15–20 min) – Great for hiking, horseback riding, and waterfall views in a remote setting.
  • Chunky Gal Stables (10 min) – Go horseback riding through mountain trails with experienced guides and beautiful views.

Frequently Asked Questions:

  • Question: Where is Hayesville located?
    Answer: Hayesville, a quaint town in North Carolina, is situated near the state’s border with Georgia.
  • Question: Which Native American tribes once inhabited Hayesville?
    Answer: Hayesville was once home to numerous Native American tribes, including the Cherokees.
  • Question: What historical significance does the Trading Path have in Hayesville?
    Answer: The Trading Path, which ran through Hayesville, was used in early America as a route to navigate the Piedmont region.
  • Question: What attractions can visitors find in Hayesville?
    Answer: Hayesville features unique attractions such as historic farms, vineyards, and art studios.

At a Glance:


Best Time to Visit Places to Stay Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Mild temperatures and beautiful wildflowers. The Ridges Resort on Lake Chatuge – A lakeside retreat with stunning mountain views. Explore Fires Creek Recreation Area – Hike scenic trails and enjoy waterfalls.
Summer (June-August) – Warm and perfect for water activities. Lake Chatuge Lodge – A cozy stay with easy access to the lake. Go boating or fishing on Lake Chatuge – Enjoy the peaceful waters and scenic backdrop.
Fall (September-November) – Crisp air and stunning autumn foliage. Brasstown Valley Resort & Spa – A rustic, luxurious mountain getaway. Drive the Cherohala Skyway – Experience breathtaking views of fall colors.

More events and things to do

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