Business Details
Experience Historic Elegance at Highlands Inn
Since 1880, Highlands Inn has been a cornerstone of hospitality in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Our historic 31-room inn combines 19th-century charm with modern comforts, offering guests an immersive experience in a National Registry of Historic Places-listed property. Through meticulous renovations in 1989 and 2006, we preserved authentic features like antique furnishings, colonial paints, and the Sequoya Room's Victorian parlor ambiance while adding contemporary amenities. Owned by the Hawkins family since 2000 - descendants of Highlands' original settlers - we maintain a legacy of personalized service and community stewardship.Our property features 1,000 feet of historic front porch space, a rooftop terrace, and event venues accommodating intimate weddings to corporate gatherings. With 145 years of continuous operation, we provide unparalleled access to Highlands' shopping, dining, and outdoor recreation while maintaining our reputation as the region's premier historic hotel.
Services
Accommodations
Event Hosting
Dining
Shopping
Outdoor Recreation
Highlights and features
- Preserved historic charm since 1880 with modern comforts
- Hosts events from intimate weddings to corporate meetings
- Family-owned since 2000 with deep local roots
- Direct access to Highlands' shopping and dining district
- Features unique architectural elements like 1,000' front porch
Associations and certifications
- National Registry of Historic Places
What people say
Timeless elegance
Prime downtown location
Exceptional service
Historic charm
Beautiful grounds
Services
Accommodations
Highlands Inn offers 31 uniquely decorated rooms across its historic main building and Rock Garden cottages. Each room features period furnishings, modern amenities like high-speed internet, and special touches including evening cookie service. The property maintains its 19th-century charm while providing contemporary comforts such as air conditioning and flat-screen TVs.
Event Hosting
The Sequoya Room provides 2,000 sq ft of event space for weddings, banquets, and business meetings. The property also offers outdoor ceremony options in the Rock Garden and rooftop terrace access for special events. Complete with Victorian-era decor and modern audiovisual capabilities, our venues combine historic charm with functional design.
Dining
While the inn itself doesn't operate a restaurant, it provides evening cookie service with coffee and tea. Guests enjoy immediate access to Highlands' renowned dining scene featuring international cuisine and American classics from award-winning chefs located just steps from the main entrance.
Shopping
The inn's location on Main Street provides direct access to Highlands' premier shopping district. Guests can explore boutique stores, antique shops, and specialty food vendors offering homemade jellies and jams. The property serves as a gateway to the town's commercial corridor while maintaining its historic ambiance.
Outdoor Recreation
Situated at 4,118 feet elevation in the Blue Ridge Mountains, the inn offers proximity to hiking trails, waterfalls, and fishing streams. Guests can access the Nantahala National Forest's 500+ miles of trout streams and 47 peaks over 4,000 feet. The property's location makes it an ideal base for exploring the region's natural attractions.
People
Sabrina Hawkins
Co-Owner
Sabrina Hawkins co-owns Highlands Inn with her husband Bill. As part of the original settler family, she brings deep local knowledge and historical stewardship to the property's management.
Bill Hawkins
Co-Owner
Bill Hawkins, whose great-grandfather was Highlands' first doctor, co-owns the inn with Sabrina. His family's 150-year connection to the area informs their preservation-focused approach to ownership.
Questions
When was Highlands Inn established?
Highlands Inn was established in 1880 as Highlands House, making it the first hotel in Highlands.
What amenities do the rooms include?
All rooms include air conditioning, private bathrooms, televisions, coffee makers, mini fridges, and high-speed internet access.
Can I host events at the inn?
Yes, the Sequoya Room accommodates up to 150 guests for weddings and business events, with additional outdoor space available in the Rock Garden.
Is the inn accessible for guests with mobility needs?
Elevator service is available to second and third floor rooms, and the main building has ADA-compliant features.
What nearby attractions are accessible from the inn?
Guests can walk to shopping, dining, and cultural attractions including the Highlands Playhouse and Bascom Lodge art gallery.
Does the inn offer dining options?
While we don't have a restaurant, our evening Highlands Nightcap includes fresh baked cookies, coffee, and tea selections.
