A Highlands Tail:
Good day, fine humans and fellow four-legged explorers. I, Mr. Pickles, am back with another thrilling escapade! My humans recently whisked me away to more magical places nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains. As someone with refined taste in both fire hydrants and fresh Appalachian air, I feel it’s my duty to share the best pet-friendly spots in and around the charming Highlands, North Carolina.
If you’ve ever dreamed of a getaway where you can stretch your paws and dine like a canine king, this is the place. It’s a paradise fit for a visit no matter the season.
So, is Highlands, North Carolina actually dog friendly?
Yes! From the restaurants, to the trails, to my luxurious home at The Park on Main, Highlands, North Carolina, is a beacon for dog-lovers across the country. You’ll see plenty of my kind in your everyday travels and even during special festival events. I’m always raring to make more friends; it’s easier to chase another fur-legged companion than my own tail.
🐾Pet-Friendly Restaurants
Highlands, North Carolina, is a pup’s paradise when it comes to pet-friendly dining out, with plenty of spots that welcome furry friends with open arms and maybe even a treat from the kitchen. Whether you’re into patio lounging or people-watching, this mountain town serves up plenty of welcoming charm. Let me guide you to the best tail-wag-worthy dining experiences in town.
Wild Thyme Gourmet
Wild Thyme Gourmet provides a sophisticated menu and extensive wine selection in an upscale environment with dog-friendly patio seating, weather permitting. With daily lunch and dinner hours, I often make an appearance bearing combed fur and a bowtie to match. Delicious dishes include black bean burgers, crab cake sandwiches, shrimp and sea scallops, bacon-wrapped quail, double cut pork chops and ricotta ravioli. They say “all dogs go to heaven” but I’ve found it here on Earth!
Blue Bike Cafe
If I were a sled dog, I’d take my human to Blue Bike Cafe every day. True, the bicycle is a more convenient mode of transportation, but I just couldn’t resist. I feel the same way about the specialty burgers and sandwiches, so tasty! Fortunately, this establishment has dedicated outdoor space for me and all two-legged patrons. Ask if their “doggy menu” is still available and you might get some hound-centric delectable treats.
Highlands Dive
Openly advertising “Pets are welcome on our patio.” was all I needed to hear before I took my first trip to the Highlands Dive. Admittedly, I might have “dove” toward the chicken wings before my owner gave me a proper toy to chew on. Still, I’ve got no bone to pick with the selection of bar food and craft cocktails. They even open up the dance floor and bring in a DJ during select hours. I’d recommend you try the pork belly bites; I’d totally “pig out” and gorge on those delicacies but my refined upbringing would be called into question.
Western Carolina Brew and Wine
I’m used to lapping up cold water, but the human in my life might enjoy a chilled beverage from this local brewery. Take advantage of the barktacular add-on options, earning some locally-crafted, small batch beer when you first book a room with The Park on Main! My kind are a welcome sight at the pet-friendly Western Carolina Brew and Wine; I earned a scrumptious ice cream pup cup during my last visit.
Primary Restaurant + Bar
My refined palate always feels at home when visiting this mountain modern restaurant in Highlands, North Carolina. Furrier guests congregate around the patio, as do an assortment of human connoisseurs enjoying a prime rib or lobster. I assure you, there’s enough surf and turf to choose from on their menu, plus, the tantalizing starters are paw-fectly scrumptious. I don’t whine much anymore, but my human compatriots might find some delectable wines on the Primary Restaurant + Bar mixed drinks menu.
🐾Great Parks in the most Dog-Friendly City in North Carolina
At the average Highlands dog park, the air is crisp and the grass feels just right under paw. If you’re anything like me, a dog with a keen nose for adventure and a deep appreciation for a well-thrown tennis ball, then you’re in for a tail-wagging treat. This charming little town is home to some truly fantastic pet-friendly spots to make new four-legged friends. Let me give you the scoop on where the best romps happen around here.
Highlands Dog Park
This gem is tucked behind the Highlands Civic Center and is an absolute delight. There are separate areas for big and small dogs, so I didn’t have to worry about being trampled by overenthusiastic Labradors. The locals are friendly and there are plenty of tennis balls to chase. Overall, it’s a five-bone experience. One of the most pet-friendly spots in Highlands, North Carolina.
Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park
Right in the heart of downtown Highlands, this park is a social hub for both humans and dogs. It’s where I perfected my “sit and look charming” routine, earning more than a few head pats and compliments. There’s a splash fountain in summer, various local events and wide green lawns to lounge on. Come back and play in the park, no matter the season.
Mr. Pickles Dog Park
Look, it’s my name! Available exclusively for guests at The Park on Main, this outdoor venue is found a block from the hotel at the intersection of Spring Street and 2nd Street. Feel free to take your furry friend off the leash; it’s entirely fenced in for us pooches. What’s more, the best-named park in all of North Carolina is open 24/7 to fit your human’s sleep schedule. There’s plenty of grass with some pebble landscaping thrown in too.
🐾Turns Out, Dogs are Allowed in the Blue Ridge Mountains
There’s nothing quite like the call of the wild; my ears are always perked for it. Just outside Highlands, North Carolina, the forest stretches wide and the mountains rise tall, offering endless paths for curious paws and eager noses like mine. Every rustling leaf is a mystery, every cool stream a welcome splash. Whether you’re up for a quiet stroll or a full-on hike with plenty of squirrel sightings, the scenic spots around these parts are perfect for pups and their people alike. Let me show you where the real adventures begin.
Waterfall Walks
Highlands is surrounded by stunning natural beauty; easily accessible and perfect for pets. Start Chasing Waterfalls (and Squirrels) yourself by reading my top Highland Hikes. I’ve been scampering down the slopes of the Blue Ridge Mountains since before I could bark!
There are so many pet-friendly waterfalls in Highlands, North Carolina, it’s hard to keep count! From the quaint Silver Run Falls to the thundering Upper Whitewater Falls, new sights abound across the Nantahala National Forest. Keep your furry companion leashed at all times; I’d hate to have a friend wash away in the tumbling rapids or get lost after running toward an animal distraction.
Sunset Rock
Now, no visit to Highlands is complete without a hike and Sunset Rock is the place to be. The trail begins at the edge of town, just off Horse Cove Road. It’s a short and manageable climb; perfect for shorter legs like mine. The reward at the top is breathtaking: a wide-open view of the valley that turns to pure magic as the sun eases down over the horizon. I recommend bringing plenty of treats to enjoy the show. And don’t forget water. We dogs appreciate hydration too.
🐾Final Ruffs
Highlands, North Carolina, is more than just a pretty place. It’s a haven for hounds; a retreat for retrievers; a sanctuary for Scotties. Whether you’re into trails or tail wags, this mountain town rolls out the red carpet for pets.
So pack the leash, bring your favorite chew toy and tell your human it’s time for a Highlands adventure. I’ll see you at The Park on Main. I’ll be the one in the bowtie.
Yours in biscuits and belly rubs,
Mr. Pickles
Your Highlands Blog Dog 🐾