13 best activities in Helen Georgia [ Travel award 2024]

I spent a lot of time researching, trying, and experimenting the best activities in the region and I have to say, there are quite a lot of things to do . You will find below my very best selection of activities and top things to do in Helen Georgia ! Don’t miss the wine tasting : quite an awesome experience.

The picturesque scene of the county seat of the Blue Ridge mountains, Helen, takes travellers thousands of miles away from home by delivering a true Bavarian-inspired atmosphere of the Old World, Germany. Although Helen, with its 430 people, would be considered a small town, it is worth mentioning not only the third place but also the number of responses from tourists that prove the same.

Helen will forever be associated with that famous Oktoberfest festival, which takes place every year in the U.S. and is a proper blend of American culture and the famous Bavarian tradition. However, the ever-vibrant downtown reveals other fascinating tales that span the town’s heritage and culture. Wander through Bavaria-style and natural-cast-adorned streets of the city while satisfying your taste buds in local breweries and wineries.

Helen is a dreamy place, and there is scarcely anything it does not have to offer its visitors. It is no wonder why it has been the destination of choice for so many travellers around the globe. It makes no difference whether you prefer to go on your outdoor adventures viewing the falls or walking through town; Helen provides the fun, never-ending thumping in your heart. Prepare for an incredible experience and explore the must-do activities and attractions with which amusing mountain neighbourhoods glow!

13 Top Things to Do in Helen, Georgia

1. Attend Oktoberfest

Get the Bavarian Oktoberfest flavor at an authentic event in Helen, Georgia, without going far away from home, where Munich is situated. Helen executive was elected the most advanced enduring Oktoberfest in the USA, celebrating the 50th anniversary of the past year, 2024. Walking from Munich to Wisconsin Ave Festhalle from mid-September to late October or early November, you can take every inch of Bavarian culture.

German culture offers the best of German cuisine, for example, bratwurst and pretzels, a chance to drink the finest German beer, dancing, dressing up, and live music, which are some of the most awaited activities to take part in. The location between the stone roads and Alpine-style buildings contributes to the event’s realistic mood. If you want an opportunity to avoid the rush, you can go during the week instead. Explore the pleasure festivals in this unique German town carefully situated on the North Georgia Mountains.

2. Unicoi State Park

The city of Helen is charming, and Unicoi State Park is situated there. It is just one stone’s throw from the Helen downtown in The North Georgia mountains. Many who choose recreation outdoors or among nature may dedicate their spare time to participating in activities there. This name has become famous owing to a specific mystical Lake Unicoi, caused by which people of all ages gather and rest in a serene atmosphere.

From extreme Ziplines and horseback riding to the tranquillity of a relaxing park, Unicoi State Park has something for everyone. Whether you hike the picturesque trails or try archery or mountain biking, the park’s menu meets everyone’s tastes.

The park’s unique offering is the extended stay options for those looking for a temporary residence, allowing access to tent campgrounds, RV sites, and lodges. Once you’ve had enough time to explore nature, treat yourself to lip-smacking meals at the lodge’s restaurant or compliment the vivid nature with a drink at the tavern.

Marvel at the beauty of Anne Ruby Falls and take a trip to the Chattahoochee River, which is a must. Then, experience the town of Helen, where German cuisine will astonish you. If it is newness or peace you want, Unicoi State Park in North Georgia Hills is the right place to come for the beauty experience of the greenery around.

3. Downtown Helen

With each step, one can almost imagine being in a cosy German-styled village just passing through the hectic Downtown Helen. Whether it is the season of wild and particular celebration or any other time of the year, walking past the Bavarian houses is a total privilege. Bavarian architecture is vastly exposed on Main Street, where you can discover granite streets that look like the streets of Western Germany’s states.

Food is without question the heartbeat of any culture, and a good starting point is exploring the local eateries. It is an absolute must at outlets like Bodensee or Hofbrauhaus, where authentic German cuisine of schnitzel, spaetzle, and bratwurst is sold. But don’t just enjoy our traditional entertainment; delight your sweet palate with Hofer’s croissants, baked with generations of craftsmanship inherited from artisans.

When looking for exciting and trendy shops, you can find them in old boutiques and speciality shops or get involved in the glorious atmosphere of Helen’s Christkindlmarkt festival during the holidays and the season. The hyped event also features tasty German meals, drinks, and sweets.

The downtown area of Helen captures the essence of the interests that combine culture, cuisine and retail, juxtaposed with the majestic mountain range of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Whether you are a nature lover or just seeking a place to unwind, this cosy little town is a great destination full of the qualities it possesses.

4. Chattahoochee River Tubing

Relish the peacefulness of drifting along in the tributary parts of the Chattahoochee River in the enchanting little town of Helen in Georgia. It costs $12 for the whole day of work on weekdays or $16 for weekends and holidays. You can select the tube length, a maximum hour or an entire day-time. It will be convenient for you and the river’s water level, too.

Don’t worry about making reservations unless you are part of a big crowd. This area could be picnic-friendly, where you can lie down under canopies along the company’s river. On-site lockers, showers, cabins, and dressing rooms are available at a low cost.

While Memorial Day represents the beginning of our activity season, it may end earlier due to all sorts of weather once summer is over. Valhalla Resort Hotel and Lorely Resort are among the establishments located nearby that have made staying outside the lines of the park convenient. You can go tubing face-to-face with Helen’s gorgeous wooden streets and the broader spectrum of nature at Chattahoochee National Forest.

5. Yonah Mountain Trail

The proposed itinerary involves hiking the Yonah Mountain Trail close to Helen, Georgia, an adventure to diverse beauty and a day-to-remember. Listen to that honking signifying a flock of geese. Just a minute away from the city that houses the Blue Ridge Mountains, this trail features picturesque landscapes and challenges you to stretch your limits like an experienced hiker.

While walking through thick forests with mossed rocks, you will be tuned to the songs of birds and bombarded with the beauty of the North Georgia Mountains. The top offers the most perfect views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, which will make your heart skip a beat just before sunrise.

After your hike, take it easy at the nearby Yonah Mountain Campground, where you can enjoy an outdoor romp in the cool mountain air. You can even put up your tent and spend a chilly night under the open blue skies. I triumphantly survived the entire day of the festival, and it’s the best way to eliminate toxins from the endeavour.

For travelers looking for a weekend getaway, Helen, Georgia, with its Bavarian-themed facades, cobblestone streets, and stores exuding the artistry of the locals, is within short distances of the city. Let no hiccup in planning your trip come in the way of marketing emails from the visitors bureau and the White County Convention. Let nobody prevent you from having fun in this black Neverland of the North Georgia Chattahoochee National Forest.

6. Hardman Farm State Historic Site

Experience the enthralling Hardman Farm State Historic Site, where you are immersed in Helen, Georgia’s history and unique way of life. A city cut into deep cultural heritage, it is a place where visitors have a trip in time. The town’s smoking is displayed, and the street’s architecture resembles Bavaria.

The burial mound of Sautee Nacoochee, which used to be the burial ground of the ancient Indian tribe, lies as a relic of the place shrouded in myths and stories told by the tribe members, thus creating an atmosphere of mysticism and worship. Legend shares Saute and Nacoochee as their names, two young natives from different tribes since they found their eternal rest near this spot.

A trip along the restored Hardman Farmhouse and the 19th-century dairy barn will awaken you by the achievements made to restore the North Georgia Mountains. This museum serves as one of the famous landmarks in the area. Guided tours give an understanding of the cultural aspect, where visitors can walk through the region and experience the glorious past.

It is a peaceful and imaginative site with numerous paved walkways connected by benches and creations of different-looking pavilions. It is a perfect place to come to and enjoy the beauty of history and destress simultaneously. Feel the magnetism of Hardman Farm State Historic Site while time-travelling to one of the obscure eras.

7. Anna Ruby Falls

Anna Ruby Falls in Helen, Georgia, is a must-visit for nature lovers. A 1-mile trail, paved, will take you to the astonishing waterfalls, ideal not only for endurance but also for children. I’ve been back to Helen multiple times recently, but Anna Ruby Falls still has its place among the best of the best. Tracks are open between 9 am and 5 pm for $ 3 a ticket. I arrived roughly at 10 am and had to rush to find a parking place as the parking lot was already filled. Taking my time can cause me to miss the party’s fun.

The trek is pretty level; thus, one can always admire the lovely views surrounding you. When we finally started our way down, however, the noisy trail, becoming busier every minute, made navigation a little more complicated. Weekends might prove too crowded, so come as soon as the shop opens or try to come in the late days of the week to avoid the rush. 

Then, once you are ready for something after the hike, Georgia’s outdoor adventure destination is destined to be your final vacation destination with its craft beers, wine tours, and horse riding. Anna Ruby Falls would be worth checking out and becoming part of Helen’s picturesque landscape. So, here is something for you if you are looking for the perfect day trip away from home!

8. Wander around downtown Helen, GA

Sightseeing through the streets of downtown Helen, Georgia, gives an impression that you have stepped into a beautiful Bavarian Alps village in one moment. Those counted particular stone paths with exciting boutiques, restaurants, and stores are ideal places for walking and taking pictures. The Chattahoochee River, the perfect sensory complement, accounts for the area’s idyllic setting and results in an ideal place to relax.

I lodged at the Holiday Inn Express, which I found suitable for the night and was only a few blocks from downtown. Walking in the tasting room, tasting different wines, relaxing in a local place for wine, and the best Georgia ice cream were the things my visit was complete, and I loved. Water tubing is a thrilling alternative; for adventurous people, the zip lines are exactly what they need.

Don’t take advantage of the Lavender Cottage to find the perfect token. The Russell-Brasstown Scenic Byway is a place to take pictures that will blow your mind, and you can plan a day trip around it. It is very convenient because of the marketing emails of the Visitors’ Bureau and the White County Convention; you can plan your visit to the locality smoothly. Not without reason, Helen, well-known for its Alpine-style streetscapes and abundance of drawers, is Glenville, beloved by thousands of tourists.

9. Go wine tasting

Deciding to participate in a wine-tasting tour rather than just the well-known beers in Helen reveals an attractive variation to the German beer accident in Helen, GA. Take the Unicoi Wine Trail touring Sweet Acre FarmsFarms’ and other North Georgia small wineries’ wine selections while visiting breweries from around the state right in the heart of downtown Helen.

Travel just one mile south to Habersham Winery, established in Georgia more than 39 years ago and now larger and more popular. Here, you can sip elegant wines, observe the winemaking process, and purchase speciality goods. During your drive, enjoy the beautiful scenery of CeNita and Yaugh Mountain in Cleveland, only 15 minutes away by ride.

To make your getaway more memorable, it is recommended that you book the services of reputable outfits like North Georgia Wine Tours or Elite Excursions and Wine Tours. The lunches and catering are tailored for different occasions and reflect a lovely day in North Georgia. Make sure to let Helen’s wine country go unnoticed by leaving its flavours out of the tasting when you’re in town.

10. Go horseback riding in the mountains

Helen Georgia is a stunning place with many options to find the best activity for horseback riders. Riding a horse through the hills, valleys, and flat fields is especially appealing to the eye and is a perfect way to discover this area. From the experienced to the newcomers can now when they visit Sunburst Adventures this time to head on guided horseback tours. These tours will provide an opportunity to experience the alluring Blue Ridge Mountains and how to create wonderful memories all year round.

If you take the Blue Ridge Parkway from the north to the south part of the Appalachian Mountains, you will see beautiful views and can arrange a stop at such riverside beauty spots as Raven Cliff Falls and Smithgall Woods State Park. It travels through some excellent places to view local art and learn about the history of the Native American culture. The cost per person ranges from $75 onwards, which makes it an exciting activity for the entire family. After the ride, one can visit the beautiful suburb of Helen and enjoy some diver tubing or wine tasting at Yonah Mountain Vineyards. This is an exciting idea for someone involved in outdoor activities or who wants to see his favorite places in the neighborhood.

11. Taste the Best of Helen on a Food Tour

If you are looking for something different, you can take a gourmet walking tour of Helen, Georgia, with Helen & Back Food Tours. This experience unfolds as a dream of sampling the marvelous restaurants and pubs that grace this Bavarian town. It is exceptional for all seasons and is suitable for those who want to taste traditional German food or local wine.

Visitors can walk along downtown Helen’s cobblestone streets and feel that everyone is in a re-enactment of the Bavarian alpine village. The tour provides the visitors with a more effective way of visiting the Nacoochee Village Antique Mall and the Hardman Farm, both tourist attractions. Suppose you have had good food and Georgia ice cream – one of the options on the menu- then the closest activity could be a short hiking trail within the Chattahoochee National Forest or a water-tubing expedition within the Chattahoochee River.

The price for each diner is $35 – $60, which is not that considering other restaurant prices. Helen’s food tours are a unique excursion for people visiting the town or anyone who wants to explore the beautiful Russell-Brasstown Scenic Byway as they have set up great day tours for those visiting the Holiday Inn Express, Helen.

12. Play Mini-Golf

While in Helen, Georgia, with the family for a short outing, visit the Alpine Mini Golf course at the south end of Main Street. This popular 18-hole site is designed for young families with small children. Operating seasonally, the course is stunningly designed with garden courts and some hard mini-golf sections that some players may find tricky.

Following your game, max out at the “Scoop De Scoop” ice cream shop, which offers at least 20 flavors of ice cream and anything one can make with ice cream, from sundaes and shakes to floats. For more interesting choices, one must visit Bavarian Mountain Miniature Golf, which has the area’s biggest arcade. Georgia can boldly be said to fulfill most people’s expectations regarding food and restaurants.

Helen offers many experiences like great wine or zip-lining experiences for those searching for something special. It is many visits to Helen or the first time Helen has visited, but it is a constant connection to the fun. Georgia as an outdoor adventure destination: Evaluating the use of the cabin rental vacation option. There is nowhere better to ride horses and attend an authentic Oktoberfest than to go through this whole town from the start to the finish.

13. Drive Down Russell-Brasstown Scenic Highway

The Russell-Brasstown Scenic Highway is one of the biggest attractions of North Georgia; it offers a chance to view and enjoy the beauty of Mother Nature with your own eyes as you drive through the highway—the narrow and curvy 40-mile route along the mountains featuring some of the region’s most stunning landscapes. I have been using this route for several years and have never experienced it the same way every time.

Remember to take your camera with you since several viewpoints offer good panoramic shots of the park. Each of these stops provides a diverse view of the outdoor adventure destination in Georgia. 

At the same time, you can visit the area and enjoy zip lining, riding a horse, or visiting the heritage center to learn more about the area’s history.

There are traditional cabin rentals for more extended stays, which can be perfect as a place to escape. After a long day in the car, you can take a wine-tasting tour of the vineyard. The entire route allows for chances for fun, rest, and relaxation, making the trip memorable through Helen in Georgia.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Helen, Georgia, often referred to as ‘the little city in the mountains,’ is a land of fascinating attractions featuring Bavarian architecture and breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Helen may be a small town with only a few thousand inhabitants, but you can participate in a large selection of activities while staying in Helen. Georgia’s diverse and beautiful landscape includes Oktoberfest’s cultural richness and the natural beauty of the Russell-Brasstown Scenic Highway.

Picking Germanic downtown Helen with its cobblestone streets, Alpine-style architecture, interiors, and the possibility to try truly German dishes and drinks offers its visitors the feeling of being in the German Alps. Those who love the great outdoors have a lot to keep them busy; Yonah Mountain Trail, the Chattahoochee River Tubing, and the Unicoi State Park are some attractions for the outdoor enthusiast. Some of the highlights of his town include the natural beauty combined with art and culture, local breweries and wineries, and historical landmarks such as the Hardman Farm State Historic Site.

For those who want to experience the town’s flavor, Helen & Back Food Tours is there to take you through the most delectable places, while Alpine Mini Golf is ready to offer some entertainment thrill for the children and adults. Helen is a sight to behold in any season and has everything you dream of for a perfect holiday. Tourists desiring to relax or entertain themselves can expect to spend an experience filled with memorable moments in this idyllic Bavarian hamlet in middle Georgia.

WHO AM I ?

Hello !

I am Eric, a French Australian citizen based between Australia, Asia and Bali and I love to travel and experience the world. I generally like outdoor activities, wellness, great food and venues , party and real local adventures ! I am a Yoga practitioner and fitness lover

I created this blog because I love to travel and I want to share my experiences with others. I’ve been traveling since I was a child, and I’ve been to over 50 countries. I’ve seen some amazing things and met some amazing people, and I want to help others experience the same things.

I believe that travel is one of the best ways to learn about the world and about yourself. When you travel, you’re forced to step outside of your comfort zone and experience new things. You learn about different cultures, different religions, and different ways of life. You also learn about yourself, your strengths, and your weaknesses.

Travel can also be a great way to make new friends. When you’re traveling, you’re surrounded by people from all over the world, and you’re all in the same boat. You’re all there to explore and experience new things, and that can create a bond between people.

Let’s connect together !

I hope that my travel blog will inspire others to travel and to see the world. I also hope that it will help people to learn about different cultures and to become more open-minded.