Nestled on Main Street in the heart of Highlands, NC, two of the town’s oldest and most iconic hotels—Highlands Inn and Old Edwards Inn & Spa—offer visitors a chance to experience the charm and elegance of a bygone era. Each property carries with it a deep connection to the town’s history, alongside modern comforts that make them perfect destinations for today’s traveler.
Dating back to 1880, the Highlands Inn stands as a testament to the town’s early days. Originally known as Highlands House and built by Joseph Halleck, the Inn has changed hands many times over the years, but it officially became known as Highlands Inn in 1925 after being purchased by Frank Cook.
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1991, this beloved landmark has been a centerpiece in the historical and cultural fabric of Highlands. It has witnessed significant events, including the notorious Moccasin War of 1885, a tumultuous episode in local history. During this conflict, the Inn served as a makeshift jail for two bootleggers arrested by a U.S. revenuer. The arrest incited the Moccasin Township from Georgia to march on Highlands, leading to a dramatic standoff right on Main Street, with the Highlands Inn caught in the middle. The stalemate ended when a Highlander fatally shot a Moccasin youth, which led to the withdrawal of the Georgian contingent.
Highlands Inn also played a significant role in the regional conservation efforts through the work of George Masa, a Japanese-born photographer who stayed at the Inn for two weeks in 1929. Invited by the then-owner Frank Cook, Masa captured nearly 100 black-and-white photographs of the surrounding landscapes, significantly contributing to the area's historical documentation. Masa's work not only showcased the stunning vistas but also supported conservation causes, including the establishment of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Today, owners Bill and Sabrina Hawkins, descendants of some of Highlands' earliest settlers, continue to preserve the Inn’s historic charm. Renovations over the years, such as the 1970s addition of the Rock Gardenand the 1989 restoration of the Inn’s country manor aesthetic, have maintained its allure. The Sequoya Room, revamped in 2006, mirrors Victorian elegance of the late 1880s and serves as a beloved venue for various events.
Highlands Inn has seen its fair share of unique moments, including a famous photograph from October 1923, where guests watched in awe as a circus parade—complete with elephants—made its way down Main Street. The blend of deep-rooted history and cultural significance continues to draw visitors, making it a unique destination in Highlands. Today, the Inn continues to welcome guests from April through November, offering a peaceful retreat in one of North Carolina’s most scenic towns.
Just steps from the Highlands Inn stands Old Edwards Inn & Spa, a property that traces its roots back to 1878 when it was first known as Central House. As Highlands first boarding house, this charming spot quickly became a beloved community hub, cherished for the warm hospitality of David “Uncle Dave” and Martha “Aunt Mat” Norton, who managed it from 1880 to 1897. Over time, Central House evolved from its modest origins into the Old Edwards Inn & Spa we know today and one of the Southeast’s premier luxury destinations.
The transformation began in 1934 when Grover “Diamond Joe” Edwards and his wife Minnie purchased Central House and eventually expanded it to include the three-story Hotel Edwards, which combined the original boarding house with a stone storehouse foundation from 1893. This development cemented Old Edwards’ place in Highlands' history, and it continues to hold that status, having earned its place on the National Register of Historic Places.
Over the decades, Old Edwards Inn has undergone several enhancements, most notably in the early 2000s when Art and Angela Williams invested $150 million into transforming the property into a world-class resort. Their vision brought to life luxurious amenities like a renowned spa, the picturesque Farm venue, an executive conference center, and the prestigious Old Edwards Club golf course.
Today, under the new ownership of James and Jessica Whitley who purchased the property in 2024, Old Edwards continues to build on its legacy. The Whitelys have embraced the Inn’s history while working to expand the Old Edwards Hospitality Group, incorporating their previously owned properties—like The Reserve at Lake Keowee—under the Old Edwards umbrella. Their plans include the introduction of a premium membership that will offer guests exclusive access to not only Old Edwards Club and Glen Cove Adventure-Wellness Community but also The Reserve at Lake Keowee, creating a new experience across multiple locations.
In addition to its storied past, Old Edwards is celebrated for its world-class spa, which has earned national recognition for its lavish treatments and wellness experiences. Visitors can indulge in some of the best dining in Highlands, with the farm-to-table elegance of Madison’s Restaurant, the cozy yet sophisticated experience of Four65 Woodfire Bistro + Bar, and the casual charm of Highlands Burrito.
With its historic roots and modern-day accolades—including a recent win from the 2024 Oprah Daily Hotel O-Wards for "Resorts and Destinations to Jump-Start Your Healing Journey"—Old Edwards Inn & Spa continues to enchant visitors from around the world. It remains a cornerstone of both Highlands’ history and its thriving tourism economy.
Whether you're drawn by the quaint, historic allure of Highlands Inn or the luxury and rejuvenation offered by Old Edwards, these two inns remain the heart of Highlands' hospitality, inviting visitors to enjoy the timeless elegance of the town.