DAKOTA RANCH HIGHLANDS

Highland Cow Experience at the Tallahassee Highland Games

Step into the world of Scotland’s most iconic cattle. Dakota Ranch Highlands joins the Tallahassee Highland Games as an official sponsor, bringing two of their beloved Highland cows for an immersive, heritage-driven encounter you won’t forget.

About Dakota Ranch Highlands

Dakota Ranch Highlands is a family-operated ranch in the rolling hills of southern Illinois, dedicated to raising quality Highland cattle with intention, care, and respect. Their herd is AHCA-registered, pasture-raised, and treated as family—valued for their heritage, temperament, and health.

On the ranch, the Highlands roam open pasture, graze naturally, and live in a calm, low-stress environment. That same philosophy comes with them to Tallahassee: guests will meet animals that are handled gently, thoughtfully, and with a deep commitment to preserving their traditional Highland characteristics.

The Highland Cow Experience at the Games

All weekend long, Dakota Ranch Highlands will host a dedicated Highland Coo Experience zone inside the Tallahassee Highland Games. This is a family-friendly, educational space built around two of their stunning Highland cows.

• Pet & Feed the Highlands – Safely meet, pet, and hand-feed these gentle, long-haired cattle under the guidance of the ranch team.
• Hear the Heritage – Learn how Highland cattle shaped Scottish farm life, why their coats and horns evolved the way they did, and how this breed connects directly to the traditions celebrated on the field.
• Heritage Preservation in Action – Discover how Dakota Ranch Highlands focuses on keeping the breed protected, healthy, and as close to its natural heritage state as possible, from breeding choices to daily care practices.
• Ask the Ranchers – Talk directly with the family who raises them and get answers about temperament, care, land management, and what it takes to steward Highland cattle in the modern world.

This is a true “meet the Highlands” encounter—grounded in education, respect, and a rare opportunity to connect face-to-face with Scotland’s gentle giants.

Highland Cow Photography, Prints & More

Dakota Ranch Highlands is known for capturing the breathtaking beauty of their herd through stunning photography—each image highlighting the unique charm, gentle nature, and personality of their Highlands.

• Fine-art style Highland cow prints perfect for home, office, or ranch decor.
• Photo products and select ranch-branded items, available directly from their booth.
• Conversation with the photographer and ranch family about the stories behind the images.

Visit their space in Vendor Village to browse Highland cow art, ask questions, and take home a piece of the ranch.

Where to Find Them at the Games

Look for the Highland Coo Experience zone inside the Tallahassee Highland Games grounds at Apalachee Regional Park. The Dakota Ranch Highlands exhibit runs both days of the festival, with educational talks and continuous opportunities to meet the cows, snap photos, and learn.

Entry to the Highland Cow Experience is included with your Tallahassee Highland Games ticket. Plan your visit, bring your clan, and come meet the Highlands.

Learn more about Dakota Ranch Highlands and their herd:

Website: dakotaranchhighlands.com