Those shaggy, long-horned Highland cows with their rusty coats and fluffy bangs have become some of the most popular farm animals around. Tennessee is home to a growing number of farms and spots where you can get up close with these gentle giants, whether you want to brush their coats, snap photos, or just watch them graze.
From hands-on farm experiences to scenic stays where Highland cattle roam the pastures, there’s something for everyone who wants to meet these charming creatures.
1. Cedar Pond Farms — New Market
Cedar Pond Farms has built its reputation around one thing: letting people get seriously cozy with Scottish Highland cows. Their year-round “Fluffy Cow Encounters” take place at 1600 Fluffy Cow Way in New Market, and they’re designed for anyone who’s ever wanted to feed, brush, and learn about these famous shaggy cattle. The farm keeps the experience intimate and educational, so you’re not just snapping selfies—you’re actually connecting with the animals.
During your visit, you’ll have the chance to hand-feed the cows, which is a surprisingly calming experience. These Highland cattle are used to human interaction, so they’re patient and gentle, even with kids. The staff walks you through the basics of their care, diet, and quirky personalities, making it easy to appreciate why these cows have such a devoted following.
Brushing their thick coats is a highlight. That iconic fluffy fur isn’t just for show—it’s surprisingly soft and fun to groom. The cows seem to enjoy the attention, and it’s a great photo opportunity without feeling rushed or crowded.
Cedar Pond Farms is straightforward about what to expect, and the experience is well-suited for families, couples, or anyone looking for a unique afternoon. The farm is easy to find in New Market, and they run encounters throughout the year, so you can plan a visit no matter the season. If you’re after a genuine, hands-on introduction to Highland cattle, this is one of the most accessible and well-organized spots in Tennessee.
Reservations are typically required, so it’s smart to book ahead, especially during weekends and holidays when slots fill up quickly.
2. Mill Creek Farms — Cookeville
Mill Creek Farms in Cookeville is a working Scottish Highland cattle farm that opens its gates to visitors who want to see these animals in a more traditional farm setting. Their “Visit the Farm” program includes herd meetups, special events, and photography sessions, giving you a chance to experience Highland cattle life beyond the typical petting zoo vibe. The farm also runs a small shop where you can pick up farm-related goods and learn more about the breed.
One of the standout offerings here is the calf meet-and-greets during pop-up events. Baby Highland cows are ridiculously cute, with their fluffy coats and curious personalities, and getting to interact with them is a treat. These events are announced periodically, so following the farm’s schedule is key if you want to catch one.
The farm takes a more educational approach than some other spots, focusing on the history and care of the Scottish Highlands. You’ll learn about their hardy nature, their origins in the rugged Scottish Highlands, and why they’re so well-suited to Tennessee’s climate. It’s a great fit for anyone who wants more than just a quick photo op.
Mill Creek Farms is a solid choice if you’re near Cookeville and want a more in-depth farm experience. The staff is knowledgeable and welcoming, and the farm’s focus on the breed’s heritage adds a layer of authenticity. Check their site for event schedules and visitor guidelines before planning your trip.
3. Wild Magnolia Farm — Morristown
Wild Magnolia Farm in Morristown is all about getting visitors into the pastures with their Highland cows. Located at 5267 Stuffel Rd., the farm offers visits and events where you can enter the fields with the tame cows, feed them, pet them, and take as many photos as your phone can handle. It’s a more immersive experience than watching from a fence line, and the farm’s laid-back vibe makes it easy to relax and enjoy the animals.
The Highland cows here are socialized and comfortable around people, so you’re not dealing with skittish or standoffish animals. They’ll come up to you, take treats from your hand, and generally act like the gentle giants they are. The farm staff is hands-on and happy to share stories about each cow’s personality, which adds a personal touch to the visit.
Wild Magnolia Farm also hosts seasonal events and private visits, so you can tailor the experience to your group size and interests. Whether you’re planning a family outing, a date, or a photography session, the farm can accommodate different needs. The setting is picturesque, with rolling fields and plenty of space for the cattle to roam.
Feeding and petting the cows is the main draw, but the farm also emphasizes the importance of ethical animal care and sustainable farming practices. You’ll leave with a better understanding of what it takes to raise Highland cattle and why they’re such a popular breed.
Morristown is centrally located in East Tennessee, making Wild Magnolia Farm an easy day trip from Knoxville or other nearby cities. Booking ahead is recommended, especially for weekends and special events when spots fill up fast.
4. True South Farm — Columbia
True South Farm in Columbia offers a one-hour Highland Cow Experience that’s perfect for small groups—up to eight people can join each session. The experience includes feeding, brushing, and taking photos with both Highland and Highpark cattle, giving you a chance to compare the two breeds and see what makes each one special.
The farm’s Highland cows are calm and used to visitors, making the experience enjoyable even for first-timers. Brushing their thick coats is a tactile highlight, and the farm provides brushes and feed so you don’t need to bring anything. The staff is patient and informative, walking you through the best ways to approach and interact with the cattle.
Highpark cattle, which are a cross between Highland and Shorthorn breeds, are also part of the experience. They share some of the Highlands’ hardiness but have their own distinct look and temperament. Getting to meet both breeds in one visit is a nice bonus and adds variety to the experience.
True South Farm keeps the group size small, which means you’re not competing for the animals’ attention or jockeying for photo angles. The one-hour format is long enough to feel meaningful but short enough to keep kids engaged. It’s a good middle ground for families or friend groups who want a structured but relaxed outing.
Columbia is just south of Nashville, making this farm an easy addition to a weekend trip or day out. Reservations are required, and the farm typically books up quickly, so plan ahead. The experience is priced reasonably for what you get, and the quality of the interaction makes it worth the visit.
5. Highland Homestead — Chapel Hill
Highland Homestead in Chapel Hill specializes in hands-on Highland cow experiences, offering private 30-minute sessions, seasonal events, and even date-night options for couples looking for something different. The farm is located at Chapel Hill, TN 37034, and it’s designed around making Highland cattle accessible to visitors in a personal, low-pressure setting. The focus here is on quality over quantity, with smaller groups and personalized attention.
The private cow sessions are the signature offering. In 30 minutes, you’ll have dedicated time with the Highland cattle, learning about their care, feeding them, and getting plenty of photo opportunities. The farm’s staff tailors the experience to your comfort level, whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned farm visitor.
It’s an ideal setup for families with young children or anyone who prefers a quieter, more intimate encounter.
Seasonal experiences add variety throughout the year. Depending on when you visit, you might catch special events tied to the farm’s calendar, like calf season or holiday-themed meetups. The date-night option is a fun twist, giving couples a unique way to spend an evening together while learning about and interacting with the cattle.
Highland Homestead’s location in Chapel Hill puts it within easy reach of both Nashville and the surrounding countryside. The farm’s setting is peaceful and scenic, with plenty of space for the cows to roam and for visitors to explore. The emphasis on private sessions means you won’t feel rushed or crowded, which is a big plus.
Booking in advance is essential, as the farm’s small-scale approach means availability can be limited. Check their schedule for seasonal offerings and plan accordingly.
6. Lochan Zanda Highlands Farm — Fall Branch
Lochan Zanda Highlands Farm near Johnson City in Fall Branch is a working Highland cattle farm that also offers glamping, farm stays, and hands-on Highland cow experiences. It’s a unique combination that lets you immerse yourself in farm life while still enjoying comfortable accommodations. The farm hosts family events, farm tours, and interactive sessions with the cattle, making it a destination rather than just a quick visit.
Staying on the farm gives you a different perspective than a day trip. You’ll wake up to the sight of Highland cattle grazing in the fields, and you can spend your time exploring the property, learning about the farm’s operations, and getting to know the animals at a slower pace. The glamping setup is a nice middle ground between roughing it and staying in a hotel, with amenities that make the experience comfortable.
The farm tours are informative and cover the basics of raising Highland cattle, from their diet to their breeding. You’ll also get to participate in feeding and interacting with the cows, which is a highlight for most visitors. The farm’s location near Johnson City makes it accessible while still feeling remote and peaceful.
Family events are held periodically, and they’re designed to be engaging for kids and adults alike. From seasonal celebrations to educational workshops, there’s usually something happening if you time your visit right. The farm’s emphasis on hands-on experiences means you’re not just observing—you’re actively participating.
Lochan Zanda Highlands Farm is a great choice if you want to combine a farm visit with an overnight stay. The working farm atmosphere gives you a real sense of what it’s like to raise Highland cattle, and the staff is welcoming and knowledgeable.
7. Little Tail Farms — Dunlap
Little Tail Farms in Dunlap is a farm-stay destination where you can play and cuddle with farm animals, including Scottish Highland cows, and stay in a charming “Highland Cottage.” It’s a good fit for families or groups who want to spend more than a few hours on a farm and really settle in.
The Highland Cottage is the centerpiece of the stay, offering a comfortable and themed lodging experience. You’ll be surrounded by the farm’s animals, with Highland cows grazing nearby and plenty of opportunities to interact with them during your visit. The farm’s setup encourages you to take your time, whether you’re feeding the cows, exploring the property, or just relaxing in the cottage.
Playing and cuddling with the farm animals is part of the appeal here. The Highland cows are gentle and approachable, and the farm’s other residents add to the variety. It’s a hands-on experience that’s especially popular with kids, who love the chance to get close to the animals in a safe and supervised environment.
Dunlap is located in the Sequatchie Valley, which gives the farm a scenic backdrop of rolling hills and open fields. The area is peaceful and removed from the hustle of larger cities, making it a great spot for a quiet getaway.
Booking the Highland Cottage in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons when farm stays are in high demand. Little Tail Farms offers a unique blend of lodging and animal interaction that’s hard to find elsewhere in Tennessee.
8. Mulberry Lavender Farm and B&B — Mulberry
Mulberry Lavender Farm and B&B in Mulberry offers a different kind of Highland cow experience—one that’s more about observation than hands-on interaction. Guests staying at this historic farm can watch Scottish Highland “coos” along with mules and sheep as they roam the property. It’s a stay-and-see experience rather than a dedicated cow-petting tour, which gives it a more relaxed, pastoral vibe.
The farm’s setting is picturesque, with lavender fields, historic buildings, and plenty of space for the animals to graze. Highland cows are part of the farm’s charm, adding to the overall atmosphere of a working farm that’s been thoughtfully preserved. You won’t be brushing or feeding them in a structured session, but you’ll have plenty of opportunities to watch them from the porch, during walks around the property, or while exploring the grounds.
Staying at the B&B gives you the luxury of time. You can observe the Highland cows at different times of day, from early morning when they’re most active to the evening when they settle in for the night. It’s a more contemplative experience, perfect for visitors who want to unwind and enjoy farm life without a packed schedule.
The lavender farm adds another layer of interest, especially during blooming season when the fields are in full color. The combination of lavender, Highland cows, and other farm animals creates a unique aesthetic that’s great for photography and simply soaking in the scenery.
Mulberry Lavender Farm and B&B is best suited for guests who want a peaceful retreat with farm animals as part of the backdrop. It’s not a high-energy, interactive experience, but rather a chance to enjoy the presence of Highland cattle in a beautiful, historic setting.
9. Nashville Zoo — Nashville
The Nashville Zoo offers a chance to see Scottish Highland cattle without leaving the city. The zoo’s Historic Farm has featured Highland cattle, including Hamish and a newer resident named Elinor, giving visitors a chance to stop by and observe these distinctive animals as part of a larger zoo visit. It’s more of a zoo exhibit than a hands-on farm encounter, but it’s a convenient option if you’re already planning a day at the zoo or live in the Nashville area.
The Historic Farm section is designed to showcase heritage breeds and traditional farm animals, and the Highland cattle fit right into that mission. You’ll see them grazing in their enclosure, and interpretive signage provides information about the breed, their history, and their characteristics. It’s educational and accessible, especially for families with young children who might not be ready for a full farm visit.
Hamish and Elinor are the stars of the Highland cattle exhibit, and they’ve become favorites among regular zoo visitors. While you won’t be able to feed or pet them, you can get a good look at their impressive horns, shaggy coats, and calm demeanor from the viewing areas. The zoo’s setup allows for safe observation while still giving you a sense of what makes these cows so appealing.
Visiting the Nashville Zoo’s Historic Farm is a low-commitment way to introduce kids to Highland cattle or satisfy your curiosity without booking a farm tour. The zoo’s location in Nashville makes it an easy addition to a day of sightseeing or a weekend outing.
It’s not the immersive farm experience you’ll find at some of the other spots on this list, but it’s a solid option for a quick encounter with these charming animals.