5 Unique Places to Visit in North Georgia On Your Next Vacation

When it comes to the top tourist cities in Georgia, most people think of Atlanta or Savannah. However, North Georgia has plenty of other high-quality and family-friendly spots to check out. Whether you love wineries, hiking trails, or natural beauty, North Georgia has it all.

What many people underestimate about Georgia is just how beautiful the Blue Ridge Mountains are. These mountains are part of the greater Appalachian Mountains and actually, the Appalachian Trail starts in North Georgia. The trail begins on Springer Mountain, just northwest of Dahlonega.

To help you plan your getaway, we've compiled a list of the top 5 towns near the North Georgia mountains and what to do in each one. Let's get started!
 

1. Ellijay, Georgia

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Fall is the best time to visit Ellijay, provided that you love hiking and picking apples. The annual Georgia Apple Festival happens at the fairgrounds during October, so you can sample some of the best apples and apple products in the state.

If you want a more hands-on approach, you can pick your own fruit at B.J. Reece Orchards. The apple-picking season runs from the end of August to the end of October, and it's the perfect way to enjoy the mountain scenery and get some fresh air.

While apples are tasty, they don't contain alcohol. If wine is more your style, you can head a bit north to explore the Cartecay Vineyards, which has stunning views and a tasting room for you to sample their wines. You can also check out their event schedule for some entertainment to go with your vino. Just make sure to get a ride back to your cabin rental, or have a designated driver in your party.
 

2. Blue Ridge, Georgia

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If you're interested in lots of outdoor activities, then Blue Ridge will keep you and your family entertained during your stay. Named after the Blue Ridge Mountains where the town is located, you know the views are going to be incredible. We recommend cabin rentals in this area, instead of opting to stay at a hotel, so that you get gorgeous mountain views the entire time.

If you need a break from nature, downtown Blue Ridge is a great place for dining, drinking, and shopping. Train lovers need to hop on the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway, which takes you from North Georgia to Tennessee. There are only a couple of stops on this historic route, but they offer tons of shopping and dining opportunities.

For those who want action, Tank Town allows guests to drive a real-life tank. Where else can you do that? Then, once your adrenaline calms down, you can check out the Toccoa River and the longest suspension bridge East of the Mississippi River. If you visit in the summer, you can partake in lots of water activities downriver at Lake Blue Ridge, which has about 60 miles of shoreline.

3. Blairsville, Georgia

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Hikers and nature-lovers will appreciate the natural beauty and untamed wilderness just outside of Blairsville. Since this town is nestled in the heart of the mountains, you're never too far away from a river, a hiking trail, or a gorgeous vista.

One of the biggest attractions near Blairsville is Brasstown Bald, which is the highest point in Georgia at just over 4,700 feet above sea level. The mountain views are stunning any time of year, but we especially like it during fall when the leaves change. Be sure to head to the top of the observation deck for vistas that you can't get anywhere else.

Once you get your fill of Mother Nature, you can relax and do some wine tasting at the Odom Springs Vineyards.
 

4. Hiawassee, Georgia

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If you're a fan of nature and water sports, then you'll want to come to Hiawassee, which is situated on the eastern side of Lake Chatuge. This lake spans 132 miles of shoreline and goes from Georgia to Tennessee. You can enjoy fishing, boating, playgrounds, kayaking and a swimming beach during your stay.

While you're at the lake, you should also check out the Hamilton Gardens, which showcases over 3,000 plant species, including rhododendrons, ferns, azaleas, and many more.

Also, depending on when you plan your getaway, you can enjoy one of many festivals happening at the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds. Some of the annual events include the Rhododendron Festival, the Classic Car Show, and the Christmas Festival. In between, the fairgrounds host tons of live music and entertainment that's fun for the whole family!
 

5. McCaysville, Georgia

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Just across the Tennessee state line is McCaysville, which sits on the banks of the Toccoa River. If you love river activities, you can find lots to do in this town, from whitewater rafting to tubing to fishing. Otherwise, you can just head to the riverbank and enjoy the sounds of the water and the cool summer breeze.

Speaking of the river, McCaysville has its own riverwalk, complete with high-end restaurants and shops for your convenience. Nothing beats sitting down to a nice meal with a waterfront view.

While visiting North Georgia, you'll be pleasantly surprised with how many mountain towns, beautiful trails, and outdoor adventures there are. With plenty of Georgia state parks to choose from, North Georgia is a region you and your family will want to come back to year after year.