27 Unique Things To Do In North Georgia (By Local!)

Planning a trip to North Georgia and want more than just the same old tourist spots? We lived here for years and spent countless weekends winding through these mountains, chasing waterfalls, and stumbling on hidden roadside gems most visitors never find.

Whether it’s floating down the Chattahoochee in summer, hiking to a misty overlook in fall, or simply spending a slow afternoon in a small-town café watching the world go by, we know these hills inside and out… and we’re sharing our absolute favorite spots with you!

This list is a mix of places we return to again and again: peaceful trails with barely a soul around, quirky general stores with surprisingly good BBQ, and scenic drives you’ll talk about for years. Whether you’re road-tripping with kids, RV camping, or sneaking away for a romantic mountain weekend, there’s something here you won’t want to miss.

Let’s dive into the best things to do in North Georgia… the kind of spots only locals rave about.

View from a mountain overlook in North Georgia, with layers of forested ridges fading into the distance under a clear blue sky. Bare winter trees frame the foreground, allowing for an expansive look at the rolling Appalachian landscape.

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Quirky & Fun Things You’ll Only Find Here

Not everything in North Georgia is rugged trails and scenic overlooks.

Some of the most memorable moments come from the weird, wonderful, and totally unexpected places tucked into the backroads and mountain towns. These are the kinds of stops that make you pull over, laugh, and say, “Well that was different.”

Here are a few of our favorite offbeat spots worth the detour.

1. School Bus Graveyard

When we first heard about this place, Morgan thought it sounded like a weird spin on the Cadillac Ranch from Route 66… and honestly, she wasn’t far off.

Located in Alto, this roadside oddity features dozens of retired school buses turned into massive, ever-changing murals by local graffiti artists. It’s part junkyard, part outdoor art gallery, and totally worth a stop.

We’ve wandered the rows more than once, snapping photos and admiring the creativity. It’s especially fun if you love photography, urban art, or just enjoy discovering the strange and wonderful things that don’t show up in most guidebooks.

2. Mountain Coaster in Helen

Two smiling riders are seated in individual alpine coaster cars, ready for a downhill adventure at the Georgia Mountain Coaster in Helen, GA. The ride platform features chalet-style architecture, with onlookers in the background and a sign detailing safety instructions.

View of the Georgia Mountain Coaster track curving through a wooded hillside near the loading station in Helen, GA, with alpine-style buildings and safety signage in the foreground. A rider in a blue cart is approaching the platform as sunlight filters through the bare winter trees.

Close-up view from a rider’s perspective on the Georgia Mountain Coaster in Helen, GA, showing a row of alpine coaster cars lined up at the loading station. A smiling woman in car number 17 looks back, while a staff member assists other riders ahead under a chalet-style canopy.

We’ve ridden alpine coasters all over — from Park City to Jackson Hole to Gatlinburg AND Pigeon Forge — and the one in Helen still stands out. It’s fast, smooth, and winds through the forest just outside of downtown, giving you a great mix of speed and scenery.

The best part? You control your own brake, so you can cruise gently or fly down the track, depending on your comfort level.

It’s open year-round, but we especially love it in the fall when the leaves are peaking or at night when the whole track is lit up. If you’re looking for something fun, affordable, and just a little different, this one’s worth adding to your North Georgia bucket list.

3. Babyland General Hospital

Large white letters spelling "BABYLAND" stand prominently in an open field under a clear blue sky, with the white-columned Babyland General Hospital nestled in the distance against a backdrop of forest and rolling mountains. Located in Cleveland, Georgia, this site is a popular North Georgia attraction known as the birthplace of Cabbage Patch Kids.

Ok, I’m probably dating myself a little bit on this one…

Even if you didn’t grow up with a Cabbage Patch Kid, Babyland General Hospital is a weird and wonderful slice of North Georgia history. Located in Cleveland, it’s part museum, part toy store, and part… birthing center?

Yep! You can watch a doll be “born” from the Mother Cabbage under a glowing magical tree. It’s quirky, kitschy, and a guaranteed hit with kids or anyone looking to relive a little 80s nostalgia.

Local Culture, History & Small Town Charm

You don’t have to wander far in North Georgia to stumble on a place that feels like it belongs in a movie. Historic gold rush towns, Bavarian-style villages, and tiny roadside stops are full of character.

These are the places where we’ve made some of our favorite memories and where we always send friends when they ask what’s worth seeing.

4. Explore Downtown Dahlonega

This small town is full of charm and rich with history.

We love wandering the brick sidewalks, browsing the boutiques and bookstores, and grabbing lunch on the square. Dahlonega sits on the site of one of the first major gold rushes in the United States, where thousands of people headed in the late 1820s after gold was discovered in the North Georgia mountains.

If you time your visit right, you might catch live music or a seasonal event in the town square. Even when nothing is going on, it’s one of our favorite spots to slow down and enjoy small-town mountain life.

5. Tour the Consolidated Gold Mine

Inside the Consolidated Gold Mine, a wooden support gate with two lanterns frames a narrow mining tunnel with rail tracks and damp, rust-colored ground. Overhead lighting illuminates the rugged rock walls and pathway deep underground.

Dahlonega’s gold mining roots come to life underground at the Consolidated Gold Mine. You’ll walk through actual mine tunnels, hear stories from the rush days, and can try your hand at gold panning. It’s interactive, a little gritty, and surprisingly cool inside which is a nice break on hot days.

We’ve toured it more than once with family and always come away having learned something new. If you’re traveling with kids or history lovers, this one is worth the stop.

If you’re curious about how North Georgia’s gold fever helped shape the region, this is the place to start. Here’s our full guide to visiting a Dahlonega Gold Mine.

6. Visit Wineries and/or Distilleries

Aerial view of a lake with a platform dock/stage, green grass, grape vines, and a bright blue sky while sipping wine at a North Georgia vineyard.

North Georgia has quietly built a name for itself in the wine world, and the mountain views certainly don’t hurt.

We’ve spent afternoons sipping wine on sunny patios with ridge line views and cool breezes rolling in. Some wineries are known for their sweet muscadine blends, but there’s real variety here with an increasing number of dry reds, whites, and sparkling options.

If you prefer something stronger, stop by one of the many mountain distilleries like Moonrise Distillery. You can sample a tasting flight, learn a bit about the region’s bootlegging history, and maybe bring home a mason jar or two.

7. Visit Alpine Helen

Row of charming Bavarian-style shops in downtown Helen, Georgia, featuring timber-framed facades, red roofs, and colorful signs for local businesses including Native American crafts and specialty boutiques. The cobblestone sidewalk, decorative lamp posts, and clear blue sky enhance the alpine village atmosphere that Helen is known for.

Helen is more than just a Christmas town. This Bavarian-style village is one of the most unique places in the Southeast, with timbered buildings, German food, and quirky shops lining the streets.

We’ve floated the river in summer, drank a few beverages at Oktoberfest in fall, and walked through the Christmas lights in December. In fact, Morgan sat on Santa’s lap in Helen multiple times as a kid.

Scenic view of downtown Helen, Georgia, featuring alpine-style buildings with steep red roofs and pointed towers nestled along a gently flowing river. A green pedestrian bridge spans the creek, connecting charming shops and restaurants surrounded by lush trees and blue skies.

This is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike so it can get pretty busy. And parking is semi-limited. Bring your patience but also get ready for a fun time. It won’t take you long to see why people keep coming back.

8. Visit the Indian Mounds Outside Helen

Historic roadside marker for the Nacoochee Indian Mound near Helen, Georgia, detailing its significance as a ceremonial site for the ancient Cherokee town of Gauxule. The sign highlights the mound's dimensions, cultural importance, and early exploration by archaeologists, set against a backdrop of open fields and distant wooded hills.

The Nacoochee Indian Mound rises from a wide, grassy field in North Georgia, topped by a small white gazebo with a red roof. Framed by leafless winter trees and rolling mountains in the background, the site is a visually striking historic landmark near Helen.

While you’re in the area, check out the Indian Mounds just outside of town. This quiet site offers a meaningful look into the region’s Indigenous history.

Interpretive signs help tell the story, and the peaceful setting makes it a great spot to stretch your legs or take a moment to reflect on the area’s deeper past.

Outdoor Adventures & Scenic Spots

If you’re coming to North Georgia for fresh air, mountain views, and a little leg burn, you’re in the right place. Some of our favorite days have been spent out on the trails, scrambling to scenic overlooks, or navigating winding forest roads.

These are the spots we always recommend to fellow hikers, outdoor lovers, and anyone looking to experience the quieter side of the mountains.

9. Hike Tallulah Gorge & Cross the Suspension Bridge

A man in a red hoodie stands on a wooden landing partway down the metal-grated stairs leading to the Tallulah Gorge suspension bridge. The bridge stretches over a rushing river below, framed by steep rocky cliffs and dense, leafless forest.

This hike is as dramatic as it gets.

The main trail at Tallulah Gorge State Park takes you down hundreds of stairs (like 300+) into the canyon and across a suspension bridge that sways high above the river and gorge below.

It’s one of our favorite hikes in Georgia and we’ve written a full post on what to expect! AKA be prepared for some cardio when you have to come back UP all those stairs.

Sweeping view of Tallulah Gorge State Park showcasing the winding green river at the bottom of the steep canyon, flanked by rugged cliffs and dense forest. Bare winter trees and patches of evergreens highlight the dramatic landscape, with small waterfalls visible along the rocky banks.

If you’re only doing one big hike while you’re here and you aren’t scared of heights, this one should be a top contender.

PS. If you are into camping like us, Tallulah Gorge has a campground with RV hookups!

10. Hike to Amicalola Falls

A dramatic winter scene at Amicalola Falls in North Georgia shows the cascading waterfall partially frozen, with sheets of ice and icicles clinging to the rocky slope. Bare trees line the steep hillside, and mist rises from the flowing sections of water that remain unfrozen.

If you’ve never seen Amicalola Falls in person, make sure it is on your list of things to do!

It’s the tallest waterfall in Georgia at over 700′, and you’ll hear it before you see it.

You can walk to the base, climb the long staircase to the top, or take one of the trails that wind through the woods around it. We’ve done all of the above and still go back whenever we’re in the area.

This is also where the Appalachian Approach Trail begins; it is an 8-mile scenic path up to Springer Mountain, the official starting point of the Appalachian Trail. You’re not on the AT just yet, but it’s where many thru-hikers start their journey north.

Even if you’re just here for a casual hike, it’s fun to walk a little of that trail and soak in the energy from people setting out on something big.

11. Zipline or Ropes Course at Amicalola

For a more adrenaline-fueled view of the forest, check out the treetop zipline and ropes course at Amicalola Falls State Park.

We did the ropes course here and had a blast navigating swinging bridges, platforms, and zip lines tucked into the canopy.

It’s a fun challenge for adults and older kids, and a great way to see the park from a different angle.

12. Visit Unicoi State Park

Peaceful view of the lake at Unicoi State Park in North Georgia, featuring a sandy beach area, wooden boardwalks, and a long fishing or swimming dock extending into the calm water. The lake is surrounded by dense forest with trees showing hints of fall color under an overcast sky.

Just a few miles from Helen, Unicoi State Park & Lodge offers a peaceful escape with hiking, kayaking, mountain biking, and even archery. There’s a beach area at the lake, tons of picnic spots, and several cabins and campsites if you want to stay overnight.

We’ve come here for quick hikes, lunch breaks between Helen adventures, and peaceful mornings on the water. It’s a solid all-around state park with a little something for everyone.

13. Check Out Anna Ruby Falls

If you’re looking for a short and rewarding hike, this is it.

The paved trail to Anna Ruby Falls is just under a mile and ends at a gorgeous waterfall tucked into the forest. It’s manageable for most ages and fitness levels and one of the most photogenic spots in the region.

Anna Ruby Falls in North Georgia cascades down a rocky mountainside in twin streams, surrounded by lush evergreens and bare winter trees. A wooden observation deck on the left offers visitors a close view of the powerful, rushing water as it flows into a creek below under a clear blue sky.

Two cascading streams of water tumble down the rocky slope of Anna Ruby Falls in North Georgia, surrounded by dense evergreens and fallen leaves. The twin falls split at the top and flow side by side over smooth stone, creating a scenic, tranquil setting in the Chattahoochee National Forest.

We’ve visited in every season, and it’s always beautiful… especially after a good rain!

If you are looking for other hiking trails with beautiful waterfalls, we have compiled the perfect list.

14. Hike Raven Cliff Falls Trail

This moderate trail follows a scenic creek with several small cascades before ending at the dramatic Raven Cliff Falls, where the water splits through a massive rock wall. It’s about five miles round trip but mostly gentle with a few short climbs.

Bring water (we love our CamelBaks) and snacks, and take your time. This is one of those hikes where the journey is just as good as the destination.

15. Check Out the Highest Point in Georgia!

At 4,784 feet, the Brasstown Bald Visitor Center is the highest point in Georgia — and the view from the top is worth the trip. You can drive most of the way up and hike the final half-mile to the summit, where there’s an observation deck with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

On a clear day, you can see 4 different states – Georgia, Tennessee, South Carolina, and North Carolina. It’s one of our favorite scenic stops, especially in early fall when the leaves start to change.

If you are feeling adventurous, there are several hiking trails available at Brasstown Bald that are approximately 4.5-6 miles in length.

16. Horseback Riding in the Mountains

There’s something peaceful about exploring these mountains on horseback. Several stables and outfitters in the region offer guided trail rides that take you through forests, along ridges, and sometimes even across streams.

It’s a slower pace, but the views and the quiet make it a really memorable way to experience North Georgia’s natural beauty.

17. Go Off-roading

Whether you have your own off-road vehicle (ORV) or need to rent one, we have some great suggestions for you. If you are not into hiking on foot, the North Georgia mountains are scattered with trails, parks, and Forest Service Roads that offer another great way to get into nature.

Some popular destinations include:

Nimblewill Gap
Beasley Knob
Tray Mountain
Iron Mountain Resort: Georgia Offroad Park (they have side by sides for rent)

Depending on what you want to ride (dirt bike, 4 wheeler, side by side, jeep, etc), your preferred destinations may differ.

Iron Mountain is our go to off-roading destination in North Georgia… we’ve been there more times than we can count!

Laid-Back Things to Do in North Georgia

Not every day has to involve climbing a mountain or racing down a zip line. Some of our favorite memories come from slow mornings at a farmers market, floating down a river, or soaking up a sunset on the water. If you’re in the mood to relax, these stops are easy, scenic, and full of that slow mountain charm.

18. “Shoot the Hooch” AKA Tube the Chattahoochee River

A group of people enjoy a sunny day tubing down the Chattahoochee River in Helen, Georgia, floating in bright green and pink inner tubes from Helen Tubing. Surrounded by lush greenery, the relaxed scene captures a popular summer activity in North Georgia.

There’s nothing more “Helen” than tubing the Chattahoochee. Locals and visitors alike head to the river during the summer months to float through town in bright neon tubes, usually with a cooler and plenty of laughs along the way.

We’ve done this more than once and always recommend it to first-timers. You can rent from several outfitters in town (recommended as they will drive you upstream) or bring your own gear. Water shoes and a waterproof bag are a good idea.

19. Boat on Lake Lanier

f the weather’s warm and the sky is clear, you’ll find us on the water. Lake Lanier is massive, with quiet coves, open water for tubing or skiing, and marinas where you can rent a boat for the day.

Morgan actually grew up on this lake; her family had a house with a dock for 13 years, and she spent countless summers here kneeboarding, swimming, and watching fireworks from the boat.

A lively summer scene on Lake Lanier shows families swimming and wading in shallow water while boats anchor along the sandy shoreline backed by dense forest. The sky is bright with scattered clouds, and a pontoon boat with a Yamaha motor is docked in the foreground.

It’s also where the two of us met, which makes it even more special.

We’ve boated here with friends and family more times than we can count, and it’s still one of our favorite ways to cool off and enjoy the North Georgia sunshine. Don’t forget snacks, sunscreen, and a good playlist. And before you ask… no, the lake is NOT haunted.

A lakeside campsite at Shady Grove Campground on Lake Lanier features a gravel area with a picnic table, grill, and fire ring, all shaded by mature trees. A dog stands on the wooden steps leading down to the site while a person enjoys the peaceful water view under a cloudy sky.

Sound like fun and want to stay nearby? We’ve written about some of our favorite Lake Lanier campgrounds for RVers and tent campers alike. And if you’re hungry after a day on the water, check out Pig Tales, one of our go-to lakeside restaurants for great food and a sunset view.

20. Stop at Jaemor Farms

This family-run farm market in Alto is one of our favorite roadside stops. Whether we’re picking up fresh fruit, grabbing fried pies, or checking out the seasonal produce, we always seem to leave with more than we planned.

They also offer U-pick fruit in season, fresh ice cream, and plenty of photo-worthy displays. If you’re driving through the area, it’s a fun and tasty break from the road. You can check out the full history of Jaemor Farms here.

21. Relax at a Cabin with a View

After a long hike or a busy day exploring, nothing beats sitting on a cabin porch (or in a hot tub) with a view of the mountains. Whether you’re sipping a sugar-free redbull at sunrise or winding down by the fire pit at night, it’s one of our favorite ways to unplug.

Interior of a rustic log cabin with knotty pine walls, ceiling, and cabinetry, featuring a cozy open-concept kitchen and living area. The kitchen island is cluttered with snacks and drinks, and the space includes leather sofas, exposed wooden beams, and a staircase leading to a loft.

North Georgia has a ton of rental cabins, from rustic and remote to luxurious and fully stocked. If you can, book one with a hot tub and a killer sunset view.

22. Ride the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway

Take a ride on the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway! This old-fashioned train ride takes you from the town of Blue Ridge along the Toccoa River and into the mountains.

Depending on the time of year, they offer both open-air and enclosed train cars. We rode it one chilly fall afternoon and loved watching the mountain scenery roll by from our cozy window seat.

This is a laid-back and family friendly option.

Seasonal Favorites Worth Planning Around

North Georgia is beautiful all year, but some activities really shine in certain seasons.

From pumpkin patches and Oktoberfest to fiery fall hikes and local festivals, these are the things we love planning trips around. They are also the ones we make time for year after year.

23. Gold Rush Days in Dahlonega

The Gold Rush Days annual festival is held in the Dahlonega square and draws quite a crowd.

The square comes alive with craft vendors, food stalls, bluegrass music, and gold panning demonstrations.

We’ve attended several times and always love the energy, the local pride, and the chance to stock up on early holiday gifts.

Gold Rush Days will be held on October 17-18, 2026.

Image: Ornament purchased during Gold Rush Days Festival 2024

Plan for a lot of walking! You can learn more about the Gold Rush Days Festival here. This link also includes the schedule of events.

24. Oktoberfest in Helen

Helen goes all in for Oktoberfest, with beer gardens, live music, and Bavarian-themed celebrations that stretch across several weeks in the fall. We’ve listened to polka bands, tried more bratwursts than we care to admit, and enjoyed the cooler mountain weather with a beer in hand.

A large wooden signboard in Helen, Georgia advertises the 2023 Oktoberfest at the Festhalle, listing event dates from September 7 to October 29 and featuring playful Bavarian illustrations. Surrounding panels promote additional town events and seasonal festivities, reinforcing Helen’s German alpine village theme.

Even if you’re not a beer drinker, the town’s festive vibe this time of year is reason enough to stop by.

25. Fall Foliage Hikes (or Drives)

Peak leaf season in North Georgia usually hits in mid to late October. We try to be in the mountains every year when it does. Trails like Brasstown Bald, Raven Cliff Falls, and the view from atop Tallulah Gorge are stunning when the hills are covered in reds, oranges, and golds.

Pro tip: go early in the morning or on weekdays to avoid the biggest crowds and catch that golden morning light.

Even if you aren’t into hiking, you can catch some beautiful colors and views from your car.

The Russell-Brasstown Scenic Byway is one of the most beautiful drives in Georgia. The byway loops through the mountains past waterfalls, hiking trailheads, and scenic overlooks where you can pull off for photos or a picnic.

We love taking this drive in late October when the colors are at their peak and the light makes everything glow.

26. Pumpkin Patches & Corn Mazes

If you’re visiting in October, don’t miss Burt’s Pumpkin Farm. This spot is perfect for families, with rows of pumpkins, hayrides through the woods, and the smell of fresh popcorn and boiled peanuts in the air.

It gets busy on weekends, so go early or hit it midweek if you can.

27. Apple Picking & Cider Stops

Fall in North Georgia means it’s apple season, and that’s one of our favorite times to visit. Local orchards open up for U-pick fun, and the farm stands are packed with fresh apples, jugs of cider, and homemade goodies. Even if you don’t plan to pick your own, it’s worth the stop for a crisp apple and a cold cider slushie.

We’ve visited several over the years, but Jaemor Farms is one we always recommend. It has a little bit of everything — produce market, bakery, gift shop, and a few surprises depending on the season.

Ready to Plan Your Own North Georgia Adventure?

There’s something special about North Georgia that keeps calling us back — the misty mountain mornings, the hidden roadside gems, the way every season brings a whole new reason to explore. Whether you’re hiking to a waterfall, floating the river, or just taking the scenic route to your favorite small-town café, we hope this list helps you make the most of your time here.

We’ve done every single thing on this list and would do them all again. So whether you’re planning your first visit or coming back for more, we hope you find a few new favorites to add to your own adventure.