20 Fun & Best Things To Do In Hayesville, NC

Are you searching for enjoyable things to do in Hayesville, North Carolina, as a guest or local? There’s nowhere else to look! You’ve come to the right place since we’ll walk you through the top 20 enjoyable activities in Hayesville, North Carolina, to make your trip unforgettable.

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is not far from Hayesville, North Carolina, which is centrally located in Clay County. Known as the “Gateway of the Smokies,” this picturesque location has many of things to make your trip more exciting.

This family-friendly destination offers entertainment for all ages, from exploring the historic Historic Hayesville Inc. and the Towns County Park to indulging in the euphoria of the MindEscape rooms and the Walnut Hollow RV Ranch.

The Top 20 Fun Activities In Hayesville, North Carolina (2024)

1. Historic Hayesville Inc.

Explore the many exciting activities offered by Historic Hayesville Inc., a non-profit dedicated to preserving and restoring Downtown Hayesville, as you start your journey through Hayesville, North Carolina.

Founded in 2016, Historic Hayesville Inc. offers guided tours of historical sites, conserved historic buildings and landmarks, and orientational programs on the history of the area.

As a visitor, you will be able to fully understand and value Hayesville’s rich cultural traditions and history thanks to the various experiences and educational possibilities.

2. Cherokee Homestead Exhibit

The free outdoor Cherokee Homestead Exhibit offers educational activities for visitors of all ages in Hayesville, North Carolina. It features a restored 17th–18th century Cherokee Village homestead.

This attraction, which is close to the Native Botanical Garden and the Clay County Historical and Arts Museum, provides views of historic Cherokee dwellings as well as tales of the Cherokee people.

The Cherokee Homestead Exhibit hosts events like the Cherokee Heritage Festival to provide visitors a deeper look at the popular dance, music, and performances.

3. Molly & Me Antiques

One of the most interesting things to do in Hayesville, North Carolina, for families is to explore Molly & Me Antiques, an antique store that opened in 2010 and features an extensive assortment of retro products.

This attraction offers a collection of antiques that includes furniture, vintage apparel, décor pieces, and antiquities. Also, a warm and inviting environment is provided for guests.

Because Molly & Me Antiques is close to the Cherokee Homestead Exhibit, the Old Jail Museum, and several art galleries, visitors can also enjoy these attractions.

4. Peacock Performing Arts Center

Explore the Peacock Performing Arts Center, a gem for people looking for cultural adventures in the heart of the mountain, as one of the many fun things to do in Hayesville, North Carolina, at night.

The beehive offers a cozy space to enjoy top-notch performances, such as plays, musicals, concerts, and special occasions that appeal to a wide range of interests.

The Peacock Performing Arts Center is the ideal place for families and couples to relax and spend quality time together because of its serene atmosphere.

5. Not So Buried Treasure

A beautiful second-hand store in the center of Hayesville, North Carolina, called Not So Buried Treasure is one of the unusual things to do in Hayesville.

With its assortment of pre-owned furniture, clothes, collectibles, decorative accents, and vintage finds just waiting to be found, The Store breathes life into history.

Enter Not So Buried Treasure and take a step back in time as each object has a tale to tell and every discovery is an opportunity to create a unique memory.

Address: 2996 NC-69 Suite 3, Hayesville, NC 28904, United States.

6. Walnut Hollow RV Ranch

Are you looking for the ideal and unique fusion of rustic camping, rural adventures, and expansive mountain views? Look no farther than Walnut Hollow RV Ranch, a hub for thrilling family activities in Hayesville, North Carolina.

The 156 acres of picturesque land that make up the attraction are furnished with full connection RV sites, showers, toilets, and laundry facilities. Visit the farm store and experience ranch life at Walnut Hollow RV Ranch, which operates as a cattle ranch.

Visit Walnut Hollow RV Ranch to take in the rustic ambiance of the ranch and enjoy a unique camping experience that perfectly combines with the stunning North Carolina landscape.

7. Clay County Historical & Arts Museum

A year-round attraction that draws throngs of visitors and residents alike is the Clay County Historical & Arts Museum, one of the most interesting and informative things to do in Hayesville, North Carolina, for art enthusiasts.

This museum, housed in the former Old County Jail, which was in service until 1972, is a must-visit location for anybody interested in learning more about the history of the area. It features artifacts, images, and records that provide context for the early years of Clay County.

There are items from schoolhouses, farm equipment, Native American artifacts, historical displays, and a structure that looks like Dr. John Killian’s medical office, which is devoted to the local doctor.

Address: 21 Davis Loop, Hayesville, NC 28904, United States.

8. The Lost Room Escape Adventures

One of the most exciting things to do near Hayesville, GA, for families is to take a 45-minute journey to The Lost Room Escape Adventures, which is tucked away in Helen, GA.

This attraction offers you unique escape room experiences with a variety of themes that appeal to a range of hobbies and inclinations, as well as special challenges and plots.

This attraction is one of the more exciting locations to visit when you’re in Georgia since it offers unique puzzle sets, clues, incredible twists and turns, and 360-degree sensory experiences.

Address: 8016 S Main Street Unit 5, Helen, GA 30545, United States. 

9. Moss Memorial Library

Reading enhances cognitive performance, increases knowledge, and stimulates the imagination. Everyone can find a wealth of educational activities in Hayesville, North Carolina, at Moss Memorial Library.

The Moss Memorial Library has a large variety of items available for public library services such book, audiobook, and DVD borrowing. Computers and the internet are also available for study.

Additionally, in order to meet the diverse interests of all guests, this book center hosts book clubs, author presentations, workshops, and kid-friendly activities. As a result, exploring it is one of the most instructive things to do in Hayesville, North Carolina, for people of all ages.

Address: 26 Anderson Street, Hayesville, NC 28904, United States.

10. Mountain Harbour Golf Club

Making a golf appointment at the Mountain Harbour Golf Club, previously The Ridges Country Club, located in the Southwest North Carolina Mountains, is one of the many enjoyable things to do in Hayesville, North Carolina, this weekend.

Founded in 1992, the golf club provides a reasonable challenge for both seasoned and novice players. The well-kept public 18-hole golf course, which is situated on a large acre, is 4,493 yards long and 6,556 yards short from the back tees. It has 144 slopes and plays to a par 72.

Beyond the course, guests may enjoy breath-taking views of the surrounding mountains and lake from the 2,500 square foot bespoke pool area. It also offers the greatest facilities and playing conditions in the region for lighting tennis courts.

Address: 1665 Mountain Harbour Drive, Hayesville, NC 28904, United States. 

11. JackRabbit Mountain

A trip to JackRabbit Mountain offers a variety of enjoyable camping experiences, exciting activities, stunning natural beauty, and a wealth of entertaining family activities in Hayesville, North Carolina.

92 woodland campsites with picturesque views may be found in the campground with three loops at Jack Rabbit Mountain, which is situated on a peninsula of Lake Catuge, a TVA reservoir that spans over 130 miles of shoreline.

Swimming, boating, fishing, picnics, hiking, and mountain biking are all available to add some excitement to your visit to this captivating city, particularly in the spring.

12. Chatuge Dam

There are plenty of interesting things to do close to Hayesville, North Carolina, for tourists. Take a 16-minute trip from Hayesville to the center of Clay County and embark on an adventure at Chatuge Dam, a treasure discovered in 1942 for flood control.

Covering more than 7,000 acres of Chatuge Lake, the site offers a 1.5-mile paved trail perfect for bicycling, walking, and taking in breathtaking views of the lake and dam. There are also picnic spaces, playgrounds, swimming areas, and camping facilities available.

With 2,850 feet in length and 144 feet in height, the site offers guests over 132 miles of shoreline for boating, fishing, and other thrilling water sports.

13. Eagle Fork Vineyards

Learn about Eagle Fork Vineyards, a fascinating winery that offers wine lovers a lovely, intimate vineyard experience along with other leisurely activities in Hayesville, North Carolina.

Tucked up in the breathtaking Blue Ridge Mountains, this wine cluster offers a more intimate experience than larger vineyards, specializing in handcrafted wines to suit a variety of palates.

ALSO READ: Nags Head, North Carolina’s 32 Most Exciting Activities
One of the greatest things to do in Hayesville, North Carolina on Saturdays is to visit this destination, which has taprooms and live music to guarantee optimum delight.

Address: 8 Cedar Cliff Road, Hayesville, NC 28904, United States.

14. Vogel State Park

Vogel State Park, Georgia’s 233-acre oldest and most recognized state park, offers a variety of outdoor experiences and stunning landscapes for exploration. It is conveniently located 16 minutes drive from Hiawassee. Explore Vogel State Park’s distinctive activities.

Vogel State Park was established in 1931 and features a 17-mile hiking trail, camping spaces, swimming, boating, miniature golf, fishing at the 20-acre Lake Tralyta, and picnic spots.

In addition, the attraction invites guests to investigate Trahlyta Falls, a waterfall reachable by a short hiking trail that appeals to all visitors, including children and outdoor enthusiasts, and to keep an eye out for the park’s plentiful wildlife.

Address: 405 Vogel State Park Road, Blairsville, GA 30512, United States.

15. Bell Mountain

If you love the outdoors, you should include a visit to Bell Mountain, which is 16 minutes from Hiawassee, on your list of must-see unusual things to do in the vicinity of Hayesville, North Carolina. The mountain scenery offers breathtaking views and an exciting sense of adventure.

The 18-acre gem, which is 5 miles from Hiawassee Town Square, has an observation platform and parking lot for safe access to the wonder. It gives 360-degree views of Lake Chatuge and the North Georgia Mountains.

Bell Mountain, which dates back to the 1960s, is covered in colorful graffiti that covers the white rock, further illustrating the attraction’s status as a pinnacle of artistic expression.

16. MindEscapes Escape Rooms

Located in Helen, GA, less than 50 minutes away from Hayesville, the MindEscapesEscape Rooms is an exhilarating gaming hub that provides thrilling experiences close to Hayesville, NC, on the weekends.

This attraction offers special time-limited puzzles, riddles, and challenges that promote teamwork and improve problem-solving abilities. The four themed rooms are called Wanderland, Club Me In, Cabin in the Woods, and Bigfoot Rampage.

Engage your family and yourself in the mentally taxing activities offered by MindEscapes Escape Rooms to expand your creative horizons and discover pleasure in new ways.

17. Georgia Mountain Fair Inc

One of the most enjoyable and enjoyable things to do near Hayesville, GA is to see the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds, which is just an 18-minute drive from Hiawassee. The fair is a well-known venue for events and pleasant outdoor activities.

Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds, conveniently located for visitors exploring the North Georgia Mountains, is situated in Towns County Park on the shore of picturesque Lake Chatuge. It offers over 207 campsites with views of the lake, as well as a variety of live acts and concerts.

Additionally, to make your trip unforgettable, the site holds the yearly August Georgia Mountain Fair, which includes cattle exhibitions, agricultural exhibits, live music, delectable fair food, carnival rides, and a variety of competitions.

Address: 1311 Music Hall Road, Hiawassee, GA 30546, United States

18. Goldhagen Art Glass

There are many of interesting and instructive things to do in Hayesville, North Carolina, for art enthusiasts, like Goldhagen Art Glass, a fascinating place to explore unique artwork experiences.

Beautiful glass artworks in various styles with vivid colors and crystals may be found in the museum. Other artworks include sculptures, furniture, fountains, waterpods and vessels, pods and platters, flowers and vases, and fusing.

Visit Goldhagen Art Glass to see the completed artwork up close, watch the glassblowing process, or buy artwork straight from the studio.

19. Towns County Park

Situated in Hiawassee, GA, approximately 14 minutes’ drive from Hayesville, NC, Towns County Park is a multipurpose recreational area that provides a variety of facilities and fun family activities close to Hayesville, NC.

A basketball court, a 1/10 walking route, a soccer field, and exercise rooms to keep weightlifters active are among the attractions offered by this site.

Views of Towns County Veterans Memorial Park, a tranquil and lovely green area honoring veterans of the US armed forces, are also available from Towns County Park.

20. Blairsville Cinema

One of the most exciting things to do around Hayesville, NC, for couples is to take in a screening of your favorite film at Blairsville Cinema, which is located in Blairsville and is less than a 30-minute drive from Hayesville.

With three screens showing new releases, the entertainment center makes sure that moviegoers see the newest blockbusters when they buy tickets at comparatively cheaper costs. Soft pretzels and popcorn are offered for added entertainment.

Blairsville Cinema is a fantastic option if you want to see a vintage movie theater in a warm setting that will liven up your trip to the charming town.

Check it out! This attraction is also included in our list of enjoyable things to do in Blairsville.

21. Crane Creek Vineyards

Wineries are wonderful locations to relax after a stressful day. For wine lovers, one of the most tranquil things to do close to Hayesville, Georgia, is Crane Creek Vineyards, a hub for various wines.

The wine hub is situated near Hiawassee and is less than a half-hour’s drive from Hayesville, North Carolina. It has more than 20 acres of vines growing a range of grapes, from French-American blends like Vidal Blanc and Chambourcin to European varietals like Cabernet Franc, Gruner Veltliner, and Albario.

Additionally, Crane Creek Vineyards has two distinct taproom experiences: the Farmhouse Market and the Stone-House tavern. The winery also offers a wide range of upscale snacks and presents.

Address: 1040 Crane Creek Road, Young Harris, GA 30582, United States.

22. Hamilton Rhododendron Gardens

A must-visit for lovers of the outdoors and gardens is Hamilton Rhododendron Gardens, a non-profit year-round botanical garden situated on the shores of Lake Chatuge, which is about a 20-minute drive from Hayesville to Hiawassee.

Encompassing 33 acres of forest beauty, the park boasts the greatest assortment of native azaleas and rhododendrons in the Southeast United States, with over 1,500 varieties and a strolling walking track.

A peaceful escape from the hectic city life is provided by a trip to the Hamilton Rhododendron Garden, where one may immerse themselves in the scenic vegetation and discover new things while also strengthening their connection to the natural world.

Address: 96 Pavilion Road, Hiawassee, GA 30546, United States.

23. The Ridges Resort Of Lake Chatuge

Discovering Ridges Resort on Late Chatuge, a resort complex that offers amenities and activities that draw both locals and visitors to the neighborhood, is one of the family-friendly things to do close to Hayesville, Georgia, and is only a 16-minute drive from Hayesville.

Situated in the heart of the North Georgia Mountains, right on the shores of picturesque Lake Chatuge, this attraction offers breathtaking views of the lake, housing options, a restaurant, and outdoor pools to promote outdoor exploration and relaxation.

In addition, the resort offers hiking trails, a fitness center, a golf course, a spa, historical sites to enhance your adventure, and an on-site dock where guests can hire boats, jet skis, and other watercraft.

Address: 3499 US HWY 76 W, Hiawassee, GA 30546, United States.

24. VIP Fieldstone 6

One of the most fun things to do near Hayesville, NC, for families and parties is to enjoy your best options at VIP, which is located in Hiawassee, less than 20 minutes away by car.

This opulent, contemporary theater offers first-run films on its enormous six-screen screen, along with a first-rate experience that includes plush seats, roomy auditoriums, improved sound systems, and top-notch projection to maximize comfort.

Families and couples can enjoy a peaceful atmosphere at VIP Fieldstone 6 while watching their favorite movies and indulging in their favorite delicacies.

Address: 1159 Jack Dayton Circus, Hiawassee, GA 30546, United States. 

25. Groves Farmers Market

Visiting Groves Farmers Market this weekend to see the fresh local vegetables is one of the Unique things to do in Hayesville, North Carolina.

This market, which is open every day from Thursday to Saturday, is a fun location to buy fresh goods including pork, eggs, and beef as well as handmade crafts and delicious sweets from nearby sellers.

This market is a great place to taste the local cuisines of Hayesville and the surrounding area in addition to being a great place to get some unique souvenirs.

Address: 880 Swaims Road, Hayesville, NC 28904, United States.

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