It’s a peaceful Friday night. As you think about what you’ll do for the weekend, you realize that you and your significant other don’t have to work the following day, your kids are on a break from school, or you have a little extra vacation time to use. Maybe you finally found a day where you and your friends can spend time together to create lasting memories. Or maybe you want to spend time with family members that you haven’t had the chance to see in a long time. Whether you want a break from everyday stresses, some extra quality time with family, or just want to be spontaneous, a North Georgia day trip is a great option!
Where do I start?
Before you head out on a road trip, follow a few of these easy tips to ensure a safer, smoother trip.
- Pack supplies for any medical emergencies that could occur. Pack any daily medications you need, a simple first aid kit, and any extra emergency supplies you think would be helpful.
- Make sure that your car has a full tank of gas. This will prevent unnecessary stops on the way and will give you more time to participate in other fun activities once you arrive. This is critical, especially if you are planning on spending only one day in North Georgia.
- Pack your car the night before you head out. This simple step will prevent any delays when you’re ready to start your North Georgia road trip.
- Make sure you have enough money for any activities you want to try, plus a little extra for souvenirs or local goodies if you want!
- Pack plenty of snacks and water for the drive, along with your favorite tunes!
Dining Options
There is some delicious food in North Georgia, from farm-to-table restaurants to Southern favorites – and everything in between. A few great options for your day trip include:
Papa’s Place [3651 Dawson Forest Road E. Dawsonville, GA 30534]
You’ll feel like you’re gathered around a table for a home-cooked meal at this diner-style restaurant that focuses on family, great service, and delicious food.
Angelina’s Italian Gourmet & Delicatessen [3640 E First St, Blue Ridge, GA 30513-7136]
If you are a fiend for sandwiches and/or salads, this place is for you. The food served is fresh, and the service is incredible. This eatery also offers vegetarian-friendly and gluten-free options.
The Shack of Ellijay [118 N Main St, Ellijay, GA 30540]
The Shack of Ellijay offers fresh broth bowls, pho, poke, and other healthy options. They focus on a great environment, great service, and decor that’s unique and adds to the cozy atmosphere.
Hole In The Wall [12B Town Sq, Blairsville, GA 30512-3565]
This American-style restaurant is known for its delicious breakfast options; however, they offer plenty of other great options! The service is fast, the staff is friendly, and the prices are wallet-friendly.
The Chocolate Express Fudge Factory [634 E Main St, Blue Ridge, GA 30513]
Treat yourself to fudge and decadent desserts at this Blue Ridge staple. Almost everything is made from scratch, too, so you’ll enjoy that homemade taste.
Attractions and Activities
North Georgia has a plethora of attractions and activities for your getaway. From visiting a winery to ziplining through the Blue Ridge Mountains, this area has something for everyone, which is what makes it the perfect place to visit with your family and friends. When you’re staying in North Georgia, you can also make a quick day trip to Atlanta for favorites like the Georgia Aquarium, Zoo Atlanta, the High Museum of Art, Six Flags Over Georgia, and more!
Horseback Riding in Blue Ridge
If you want to experience the beautiful terrain of the Blue Ridge forests, this activity is a great option! An experienced guide will ensure you have a fun and safe experience as you view the unique features of North Georgia, from the Cohutta Mountains to wildlife on the Appalachian Trail. Several companies offer sunset rides, custom rides, riding lessons, pony rides, and more, including Appalachian Trail Rides and Blanche Manor Horseback Riding.
Drive-In Theater in Blue Ridge
Visit one of the last drive-in movie theaters in the state of Georgia. The Swan Drive-In Theater is the perfect place to go for a romantic evening with your significant other or a classic experience with your family. This family-friendly location has been open since 1955 and is suitable for all ages. The entry price is affordable and concessions are available as well.
Suspension Bridges and Adventurous Activities in North Georgia
If you and your family want a more scenic and thrilling experience, visit one of the three suspension bridges in North Georgia, which include the 180-foot-long Swing-a-Long Bridge at Rock City Gardens, the 270-foot-long swinging bridge over the Toccoa River, and the bridge at Tallulah Gorge State Park. These three bridges connect scenic trails that will allow visitors to capture the beauty of North Georgia.
If you visit this area during the warmer months of the year, you can visit Bridal Veil Falls at Tallulah Gorge State Park, which becomes known as the Sliding Rock for people brave enough to slide down the rocks and into the pool below. Experienced kayakers will also have the opportunity to brave the waterfalls when “whitewater releases” occur biannually in the spring and the fall.
Other favorite outdoor North Georgia stops include hiking trails to Amicalola (“tumbling waters” in Cherokee) Falls and Anna Ruby Falls, rides on the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway, Brasstown Bald, Lake Chatuge, and the Chattahoochee River in the Chattahoochee National Forest.
Historical Sites in North Georgia
If you’re interested in historical sites and artifacts that capture the past experiences and events of the area, you’ll have plenty of options. Some local interesting sites include Dahlonega Gold Museum State Historic Site (learn about the gold rush and go panning), the Etowah Indian Mounds State Historic Site, the Foxfire Museum & Heritage Center, the New Echota State Historic Site, and the Currahee Military Museum. You can also spend a day in historic Helen, a charming Bavarian-style mountain town.
Wineries and Vineyards in North Georgia
Since this area is home to a robust wine industry, you can visit one of the many local wineries, which are generally best known for their Muscadet and fruit wines – and often boast live music. In Dahlonega, enjoy a beautiful mountain view while sipping on the tasty wines at Kaya’s Winery. Another notable winery is Wolf Mountain Vineyards. This location received gold medals and best-in-class status from California Wine Competitions. On top of their award-winning wines, enjoy spectacular views over the North Georgia mountains.
Ziplining in North Georgia
If you enjoy the thrill of soaring across scenic locations, you will love ziplining in North Georgia. Visitors can try ropes courses, climb rock walls, and join a guide for an interactive tour. Various companies, such as Zipline Canopy Tours of Blue Ridge and Historic Banning Mills, offer a wide range of courses and tours that almost everyone can enjoy. However, there is an age limit on some of the activities, so make sure you plan accordingly.
Snorkeling in North Georgia
Want to explore underwater in North Georgia? The Conasauga River is home to a variety of fish species! Bring your snorkel gear, some snacks, and some water, and have fun on the river!
Make it A Weekend
North Georgia is fun for a day trip, but there’s so much to do, you could make it a whole weekend! If one day isn’t enough, we have a wide variety of cabin rentals at Georgia Cabins for YOU where you can feel right at home. Take your pick with some great amenities, including hot tubs, big screen TVs, mountain views, king beds, gorgeous kitchens, outdoor living spaces, and more!
After you’ve spent the day exploring the history of the area, checking out art galleries, shopping at boutiques in a small town, enjoying some of the best day trips, or having fun on the water, come back to your North Georgia cabin and unwind!
