A close encounter with one of Scotland’s most recognizable animals awaits in the countryside near Mt. Pleasant. Highland Homestead invites guests to spend time with its friendly Highland cows, known for their long horns, gentle personalities, and wonderfully shaggy coats.
During the farm’s interactive experiences, visitors can hand-feed treats, brush the cows, take photographs, and enjoy plenty of up-close attention from the curious herd. A 30-minute cow encounter provides a simple option for families and animal lovers, while other offerings include private visits, date nights, and special gatherings beneath the stars. The relaxed setting makes the experience feel more personal than a typical animal attraction.
Instead of viewing the cows from behind a distant fence, guests can slow down and connect with them in a welcoming farm environment. Reservations are recommended because experiences are scheduled in advance. For anyone searching for a memorable Tennessee outing filled with fresh air, charming photographs, and fluffy new friends, Highland Homestead delivers a day that is difficult to forget.
Meet Tennessee’s Fluffiest Farm Residents
Bella would like a word with you. Actually, she would like a snack, a scratch, and maybe a compliment on her hair. She is one of the Highland cows living at Highland Homestead, and visitors describe her as the sweetest cow on the property.
Every member of this herd has a name and a personality to match. Guests have met Bella, Oliver, Daisy, Thor, and Odin, and reviewers love talking about them like old friends. Oliver gets called funny, Daisy has a reputation for sass, and Thor and Odin are described as flat-out adorable.
That mix of personalities is part of the fun. You are not just looking at livestock across a field. You are getting to know individual animals, each with their own quirks and moods.
Calves have also been part of the scene. Several reviewers mention two little babies on the farm, and more than one guest admitted wanting to take them home. Keep in mind that young calves need time before they are ready for close contact, so whether you can pet them depends on their age when you visit.
So why are these cows so fluffy? Highland cattle come from the rugged Scottish Highlands, where cold wind and rain are a normal part of life. Their thick, double-layered coat kept them warm in that harsh setting, and it is the reason they look like walking teddy bears today.
Those long bangs have a name too. Fans call the hair over their eyes a forelock, and it helps protect their eyes from bugs and weather. It also makes them look like they are always peeking at you through a curtain.
Here is a local insider tip. Ask the owner about each cow before you start petting. Knowing who loves attention and who prefers a little space makes the visit smoother for you and the animals.
By the time you leave, you will probably have a favorite. Most people do, and many already have plans to come back and say hello again.
A Close-Up Highland Cow Experience Unlike Any Other
Petting zoos are fine. But standing face to face with a 1,000-pound fluffball that wants your attention is a whole different level of happy.
At Highland Homestead, the experience is built around real interaction. Guests pet the adult cows over the fence, which keeps everyone safe while still letting you get your hands deep into that famous fur. Reviewers talk about cuddling and loving on the cows, and you can tell those moments stuck with them.
The farm is small, and that works in your favor. Instead of shuffling past crowds, you get a relaxed, personal visit. The owner, Corrie, is described again and again as warm, patient, and very hands-on.
Her knowledge is a big part of the appeal. Guests say she explains the basics of raising Highland cattle, from daily care to the history of the breed. One visitor called her a wealth of knowledge, and another said she answered questions they had not even thought to ask yet.
Now for some honest expectations. The adults are met over a fence, and one parent noted that the fence was a bit tall for younger kids around age six to reach easily. If you have small children, plan to give them a lift or ask the host for the best spot along the rail.
Calf snuggles are another thing to ask about before booking. Young calves stay back until they are ready for people, and the owner has explained that petting starts once they are old enough. If cuddling a baby is your main goal, call ahead and check where the calves are in that process.
What makes it special is how unhurried it feels. You can watch a cow chew, notice how its nose twitches, and feel the different textures of its coat. Those small details are easy to miss at bigger attractions.
Come with curiosity, not a checklist. The best moments here tend to happen when you slow down and let the cows come to you.
Grab A Brush And Help Groom The Herd
Ask any guest what their favorite part was, and there is a good chance they will say the brushing. It shows up in review after review, and honestly, the cows seem to enjoy it as much as the people do.
Grooming a Highland cow feels oddly calming. You run the brush through that long, wavy coat, and the cow often leans into it like a dog getting a belly rub. One reviewer joked about combing a cow’s head, which tells you how personal this gets.
Brushing is not just for fun, either. On a working farm, regular grooming helps remove loose hair, dirt, and tangles from a thick coat. It also builds trust between the animals and the humans who care for them.
Want to do it like a pro? Start with long, gentle strokes in the direction the hair grows. Watch the cow’s body language, because a relaxed cow will stand still or lean in, while a cow that walks away is telling you it is done for now.
Favorite spots vary by cow. Many enjoy a good brush along the neck and back. Your host can point out where each animal likes attention most, and following her lead will make you instantly popular with the herd.
Kids especially love this part. Parents in the reviews mention their children having a blast brushing the cows, and it gives little hands a clear job to do. It also teaches them how to be calm and respectful around big animals.
Here is something many visitors do not expect. Highland coats change with the seasons, growing thicker as cooler weather arrives. A fall visit might mean extra fluff, which makes brushing even more satisfying.
Be ready for some hair to come home with you. That is just part of the deal. Think of it as a fuzzy souvenir from your new four-legged friends.
Feeding Treats Is The Fastest Way To Make Friends
Want a cow to love you in under ten seconds? Hold out a treat. It works every single time at Highland Homestead.
Hand-feeding the herd is one of the most popular parts of the visit. Guests of all ages talk about it, from kids on homeschool trips to couples on date night. The second the snacks come out, those shaggy faces push forward with very clear intentions.
There is something funny about feeling a big cow’s tongue swipe across your hand. It is wet, a little rough, and surprisingly gentle. Most people giggle the first time, and kids usually shriek with delight.
Here is how to feed like a farmhand. Keep your hand flat with the treat resting on your palm, fingers together. This simple trick keeps fingers safe and makes it easy for the cow to grab its snack.
Use the treats your host provides. Farms that raise animals carefully tend to control what goes into their herd, and outside snacks can upset a cow’s stomach. Stick with the approved goodies, and everyone stays happy and healthy.
Pay attention to the horns. Highland cows have long, curved horns, and while these animals are known for being calm, they may turn their heads quickly when food is involved. Stand to the side a little and stay aware of where those horns are swinging.
Feeding also gives you a front-row seat to each personality. The bold ones push to the front. The shyer ones hang back and wait, so try saving a treat for the cow that is not crowding the fence.
One reviewer even mentioned getting to feed the babies during their visit. Whether that is possible depends on the calves and the time of year, so ask when you book.
By the end, you will have a crowd of fluffy fans following you along the fence. Not bad for a handful of snacks.
Learn What Makes Highland Cattle So Special
Did you know Highland cattle are one of the oldest recognized cattle breeds? They trace back to the misty hills and islands of western Scotland, where farmers raised them for centuries.
That long history explains a lot about how they look today. The rough Scottish weather shaped a tough, hardy animal. Their double coat, with a soft undercoat and a longer outer layer, kept them warm through cold, windy winters.
Here is a fun twist. Because that coat does so much insulating, Highlands do not need as much body fat to stay warm as some other breeds. It is one reason people often describe them as sturdy and well suited to outdoor life.
Those horns are not just for show. Both males and females can grow them, and they come in handy for scratching, sorting out who is boss, and even digging through brush for food. The shape and spread can look different from cow to cow.
Color varies more than you might think. Most people picture the classic reddish-orange shade, but Highlands can also be black, yellow, cream, white, brindle, and dun. Seeing a mix of colors in one herd is part of the charm.
A group of Highland cattle has its own special name. Instead of a herd, it is traditionally called a fold. That word comes from the stone shelters where farmers once kept them at night.
At Highland Homestead, you do not just read these facts. The owner shares the history and care of the breed during your visit, and guests rave about how much they learned. One couple said those stories made the whole experience feel more meaningful.
Homeschool families get an extra treat. A visitor mentioned receiving a packet with coloring pages, a word search, and a crossword using questions from the talk. It turns a fun outing into a sneaky science lesson.
Bring your questions. The more you ask, the more you will walk away knowing about these remarkable animals.
Capture Unforgettable Photos With The Cows
Let us be real. Half the reason anyone books a Highland cow visit is for the pictures. And with faces this photogenic, you will not leave disappointed.
One guest called it a Christmas card worthy photo op, and that is pretty much the vibe. Fluffy bangs, wide horns, and a curious stare make for pictures that stop people mid-scroll. Your phone will fill up fast.
Even better, you do not have to awkwardly ask a stranger for help. Reviewers mention that the owner took pictures for them with the cows. That means everyone in your group can actually be in the shot.
Want your photos to really pop? Shoot from the cow’s eye level instead of standing tall above them. Getting a little lower makes the picture feel more personal and shows off those amazing faces.
Light matters too. Soft morning or late afternoon light is kind to both fur and people. Harsh midday sun can wash out colors, so if you have a choice of time slots, consider that.
Action shots often turn out the best. Snap a picture mid-brush or right as a cow takes a treat from your hand. Those candid moments usually look happier and more natural than stiff poses.
Evening guests get a whole different look. Reviews mention twinkle lights and a crackling fire pit during nighttime events. That warm glow sets up cozy pictures that feel perfect for fall.
Be patient with your furry models. Cows move when they want, and sometimes they turn around right as you click. Take a bunch of shots, because one of them will be the keeper.
A quick reminder: put the phone down sometimes. Some of the best memories happen when you are simply standing there with your hand buried in soft fur. The pictures are great, but the feeling is what you will remember most.
A Gentle Farm Adventure The Whole Family Can Enjoy
One family showed up with three daughters, ages 9, 11, and 13, plus a husband and a mother-in-law. Everyone left with memories, and that tells you something about how wide this experience reaches.
Highland Homestead works for just about every kind of group. Families with kids, homeschool crews, couples on date night, and friends celebrating special occasions all show up in the reviews. The common thread is a relaxed pace that nobody feels rushed through.
For kids, it is hands-on in the best way. They get to feed, brush, and pet real farm animals while learning along the way. Reviewers mention the owner being patient and friendly with children, which makes a big difference for nervous first-timers.
Homeschool families have their own options. One visitor described a homeschool special with educational activities, and another said their kids went home with crayons and a little Highland cow stuffed animal. Pricing and details can change, so check the website for current offerings.
Grown-ups have plenty to love too. Several guests attended a ladies night that included time with the cows, a charcuterie board, and s’mores by the fire. One reviewer even mentioned you are allowed to bring your own wine for those evening events.
Date night is another hit. Couples describe it as special and unexpected, especially as the weather cools. Sitting by a fire after hanging out with fluffy cows sounds a lot more memorable than another dinner downtown.
Out-of-towners are making the trip as well. One visitor from Minnesota said she found the farm while planning a Nashville birthday trip and plans to return every year. It makes a great side trip if you want a break from the city noise.
The secret ingredient here is the hosts. Guests keep saying they felt welcomed like family. That warmth turns a simple farm visit into something people actually talk about for months afterward.
What To Wear For Your Highland Cow Visit
Leave the white sneakers at the hotel. Trust us on this one.
A farm is still a farm, even when it is a charming one. There will be dirt, hay, and possibly mud, especially after a Tennessee rain shower. Dressing for that reality makes the whole visit more fun.
Start with your feet. Closed-toe shoes are a must, and boots are even better. Rubber rain boots or old hiking shoes you do not mind getting messy are a smart pick.
Next, think about your clothes. Highland cows shed, and brushing them sends hair flying. Darker clothes or a casual outfit you can toss in the wash will save you some worry.
Skip anything dangly. Long scarves, loose jewelry, and swinging purse straps can get snagged or tempt a curious cow. Keep it simple so your hands are free for brushing and feeding.
Tennessee weather keeps you guessing, so layer up. A spring morning can start cool and warm up quickly. A light jacket or flannel you can tie around your waist is perfect.
Evening events call for extra warmth. If you book a nighttime experience with the fire pit and s’mores, bring a cozy sweater or hoodie. Once the sun goes down in the country, the temperature can drop fast.
Bug spray is worth tossing in your bag, particularly in summer. Sunscreen and a hat are smart for daytime visits too. Pastures do not always offer a lot of shade.
Planning photos? Solid colors tend to look great next to those reddish or cream coats. Earthy tones like denim, green, or mustard blend nicely with the farm setting without stealing attention from the cows.
Finally, pack some hand wipes or sanitizer. After feeding and petting, your hands will definitely need it, especially if a snack or charcuterie board is waiting after your cow time.
Why Advance Reservations May Be Required
Showing up unannounced at a working homestead is a bit like dropping by a friend’s house at dinnertime. It might work, but it probably will not go the way you hoped.
Highland Homestead is a small family farm, not a big theme park with a ticket booth. Visits are organized around time slots and specific experiences. One reviewer encouraged others to book a timeslot, which is a strong hint about how things run.
Small groups make for better visits. When the farm controls how many people come at once, the cows stay calmer and every guest gets real time with them. That personal attention is a huge part of why the reviews glow.
The animals need their own schedule too. Cows eat, rest, and get cared for on a routine. Booked visits let the hosts plan around the herd instead of making them perform all day.
Special events fill up fast. Ladies nights, date nights, homeschool days, and evening fire pit gatherings include extras like charcuterie and s’mores. Those take prep, so the hosts need to know who is coming.
Weather can shake things up. One guest said their first event was cancelled because of rain, but they were quickly offered a private event instead. Booking ahead makes it easier for the farm to reach you if plans change.
Ask questions before you reserve. Want to cuddle a calf? Bringing small kids?
Celebrating a birthday? A quick message or call helps set clear expectations and avoids disappointment.
Check the official website at highlandhomestead.net for current options and booking details. You can also call the farm at 801-232-4208 if you have specific questions.
Hours listed online show daytime availability most weekdays and Saturday, plus evening slots on Fridays and Saturdays. Sunday is listed as closed. Still, confirm everything when booking, since schedules on small farms can shift with seasons and events.
Plan Your Visit To This Charming Tennessee Farm
Mt Pleasant sits in Maury County, about an hour south of Nashville, and it feels a world away from Broadway’s neon glow. Rolling hills, quiet roads, and open pasture set the mood before you even meet a cow.
You will find Highland Homestead at 3936 Cecil Farm Rd, Mt Pleasant, TN 38474. Plug the address into your map app before leaving, since cell service on country roads can be spotty. Downloading directions ahead of time is a smart move.
Timing your visit is easy once you know the basics. Listed hours show daytime slots from 9 AM to 3:30 PM Monday through Friday, with Saturday ending at 3 PM. Friday and Saturday evenings also offer events from 7 to 9 PM, and Sunday is listed as closed.
Which slot should you pick? Daytime visits are great for families and homeschool groups who want bright light and lots of learning. Evening events lean cozy, with twinkle lights, a fire pit, charcuterie, and s’mores.
Fall is a crowd favorite. One recent guest loved finishing by the fire just as the weather turned crisp. Cooler months also mean extra-fluffy coats, which makes brushing even more fun.
Make a day of it in the area. Mt Pleasant and nearby Columbia have small-town charm, local shops, and places to grab a bite. Pairing your cow visit with a scenic drive turns it into a full Middle Tennessee outing.
Bring a few basics. Pack boots, layers, hand wipes, and a charged phone for photos. For evening events, guests mention being allowed to bring their own wine, but double-check the current policy first.
Above all, arrive ready to slow down. With a 4.9-star rating and visitors already planning return trips, this little farm clearly leaves an impression. Book your slot, grab your boots, and go make some shaggy new friends.
Share this story
