A natural beauty perched on the Chattahoochee River in the north Georgia mountains, Helen is Georgia’s official outdoor adventure destination. Discover the charm of Bavaria in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains when you travel to a place with old world towers, gingerbread trim, cobblestone walkways, and traditional German foodstuffs. It’s the perfect spot for a family vacation or romantic getaway.
Cover photo: Downtown Helen, photo courtesy of Helen CVB
Day One:
Morning
Start your day downtown at Hofer’s Bakery for breakfast at an authentic German bakery before hiking to one of the most visited waterfalls in the south—Anna Ruby Falls. Located just two miles away from Downtown Helen, take a short, paved path to the thundering falls surrounded by Chattahoochee National Forest.
Afternoon
After lunch at one of the delicious restaurants along Main Street, stroll through cobblestone alleys and shop at over 150 different stores, including clothing, gifts, home decor, and more. Plan a visit to the new Babyland General Hospital to pick out your very own cabbage patch kid.
Evening
After a long day on your feet, dine at one of the best German restaurants you’ll find in America–Bodensee Restaurant. From homemade sausage to sampler platters of the best specials, you’ll find the menu is full of mouthwatering delights.
Day Two:
Morning
Spend your morning riding the new Georgia Mountain Coaster as you look out over town and the river as you race down the track, reaching speeds up to 28 miles per hour. Keep up the energy at Nacoochee Adventures where you can soar above the trees on a canopy tour or take an off road sightseeing excursion on an ATV.
Local Tip: The Folk Pottery Museum of North Georgia is a great place to learn the history of Helen and the surrounding area.
Afternoon
Have lunch at Café International by the water. Afterward, visit Cool River Adventures or Helen Tubing Company to experience the area from a new angle as you float the Chattahoochee River through downtown. If it rains, there is plenty to do indoors at the Alpine Fun Factory, featuring indoor go karts, laser tag, jump house, games, and more, and Charlemagne’s Kingdom, which displays the largest Alpine railroad in the world.
Evening
To cap the day off, enjoy a wine tasting at one of the seven different boutique wineries before dinner in town. Make your final stop of the night at Hansel and Gretel’s for delicious handmade fudge and candies.
