Make a Day of It in North Georgia
Browse the shops around Dahlonega’s historic square, explore the area’s gold-rush history or visit a vineyard in the surrounding hills. For lunch, sit down to family-style Southern cooking at The Smith House, a Dahlonega institution. (Dahlonega, GA)
Take in mountain views and the 729-foot waterfall from an overlook, or choose a trail that suits your group. In the fall, stop at nearby Burt’s Pumpkin Farm for pumpkin bread or a pumpkin roll. (Dawsonville, GA)
Wander the shops and restaurants of this Alpine-style mountain town. Helen’s Oktoberfest runs through November 1, 2026. Enjoy a German lunch at Bodensee Restaurant, then pick up apple strudel at Hofer’s Bakery & Café. (Helen, GA)
Make a day of it in North Georgia with a visit to B.J. Reece Orchards, one of our favorite spots for fall apple picking. Pick your own apples, browse the farm market and take home apple cider doughnuts or fried apple pies from the bakery. U-pick is offered daily in September and October; check the orchard’s calendar for available varieties before you go. (Ellijay, GA)
On your way to or from Ellijay, stop for lunch at Cascades Restaurant at Amicalola Falls State Park & Lodge. Enjoy Southern favorites and sweeping mountain views, then take time to see the 729-foot waterfall from an overlook before heading back to camp.
Ride through the North Georgia countryside along the Toccoa River. Choose a shorter trip or a longer ride with time to explore McCaysville and Copperhill. Before or after the train, enjoy Southern cooking at Southern Charm in downtown Blue Ridge. Book ahead for your preferred train date. (Blue Ridge, GA)
Wind through the Chattahoochee National Forest for fall color, mountain views and scenic overlooks. Make the drive part of a full day in North Georgia, with a Southern lunch at The Sawmill Place in Blairsville and a stop for boiled peanuts at Sunrise Grocery. (North Georgia Mountains)