It’s one of the all-time best mountain towns in the state.
With another sweltering summer well underway, the thought of a relaxing mountain getaway with easy access to outdoor adventures, scenic beauty, and plenty of ways to cool off sounds simply divine. With temperatures as much as 10 degrees cooler than nearby cities like Atlanta and Chattanooga, Blue Ridge, Georgia, can provide some respite from the dog days of summer.
Blue Ridge is one of the coolest mountain towns in North Georgia, and we mean that literally and figuratively. Between the restaurant- and boutique-filled downtown and the nearby Chattahoochee National Forest and Blue Ridge Scenic Railway , it's a place worth visiting with something for everyone. You’ll find many things to do year-round. Visit in fall for even cooler temperatures and bright foliage, in spring for wildflowers, and in summer for outdoor fun. Keep in mind that Blue Ridge does get hot in the summer, just not as hot as the cities below it do. Winter is a good time to get a deal on accommodations, but check the forecast since the area does get winter weather.
Read on for a few of our favorite stops in Blue Ridge. And, if you have your sights set on a trip soon, the town has a healthy collection of walking, hiking, and driving tours that range from waterfall chasing trips to tours of the historic downtown. They also have a handy list of all of the shops in the area, which is indispensable if your aims include window shopping—and they certainly should. With our guide, you'll be sure to hit all the best spots and things to do in Blue Ridge, Georgia.
Related: 28 Best Small Towns In Georgia For A Quaint Escape
What To Do In Blue Ridge, Georgia
Shop The Charming Downtown
Blue Ridge's dynamic downtown is filled with shops, breweries, and restaurants. At the old-timey Huck's General Store , browse the endless barrels of candy, toys, and locally made goods. Then pick up fishing gear favored by former President Jimmy Carter at Oyster Bamboo Fly Rods , or sign up for one of their classes to make a handcrafted bamboo rod of your own. Don't forget to stop in Pezrock to see their unique collection of tables, lamps, and sinks made from natural materials like driftwood, onyx, and petrified wood. Downtown also boasts a dozen antique shops, outfitters, and several clothing boutiques. There's enough to keep you busy all day, but if you need a breather, find a bench in the nearby Blue Ridge City Park for a dose of fresh mountain air.
hucksgeneralstore.com ; 500 East Main Street, Suite 201, Blue Ridge, GA 30513; 706-946-4825
oysterbamboo.com ; 494 East Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA 30513; 706-374-4239
pezrok.com ; 524 East Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA 30513; 706-632-6036
Ride The Blue Ridge Scenic Railway
Trains are an enormous draw in this mountain town, where they have been rambling through for more than a century. Today the whole family can have fun on the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway, which offers a four-hour, 26-mile ride that follows the Toccoa River through the scenic landscape and Chattahoochee National Forest. During a two-hour stop, you'll set foot in two states in the sister towns of McCaysville, Georgia, and Copperhill, Tennessee.
brscenic.com ; 241 Depot Street, Blue Ridge, GA 30513; 877-413-8724
Check Out The Vibrant Arts Scene
Blue Ridge has developed a reputation for its strong community of artists and craftspeople. The town 's Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association and Art Center and the Blue Ridge Community Theater bring music, theater, visual art, and entertainment to town, while downtown galleries keep the community connected to local artisans and their works. If you're visiting Memorial Day weekend or the second weekend in October, check out the town's Arts in the Park festivals.
blueridgearts.net ; 420 West Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA 30513; 706-632- 2144
blueridgecommunitytheater.com ; 2591 East 1st Street, Blue Ridge, GA 30513; 706-632-9223
blueridgeartsinthepark.com ; 420 West Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA 30513; 706-632-2144
Head To The Drive-In
On summer nights, pack up the car and drive over to the Swan Drive-In Theatre for a double feature and old-fashioned fun. In addition to movie concessions like popcorn, candy, and sodas, the on-site diner has burgers, fries, nachos, Bavarian pretzels, and more. Order from your car, and a carhop will deliver your food just like the good ol’ days.
swandrivein.com ; 651 Summit Street, Blue Ridge, GA 30513; 706-632-5235
Make Time For Self-Care
Whether you opt for outdoor adventures or a shopping weekend, a spa day fits the itinerary. TeaTree Spa is located downtown, so you can hit the shops and end the day with a soothing massage. Enjoy the serene outdoor spaces while you’re there. Make it a spa weekend with facials, massage, and an overnight stay at Serenity in the Mountains . Reserve a session in the salt cave or a mani-pedi.
teatreesmassage.com ; 3293 East 1st Street, Blue Ridge, GA 30513; 706-946-2015
serenityinthemountains.com ; 59 McKinney Road, Blue Ridge, GA 30513; 706-258-2244
What To Do Outdoors In Blue Ridge, Georgia
Visit The Southeast's Largest Orchard
Spend a few hours relaxing among the rolling green hills at Mercier Orchards, a family-owned operation celebrating more than 80 years. Depending on the season, take your pick from more than 40 varieties of apples, as well as strawberries, peaches, blueberries, and blackberries. The Merciers also lay claim to the "most famous fried apple pies in the mountains," along with a list of other mouthwatering treats. The kids will love the tractor tour and fishing in the pond, while grownups can taste the orchard's mulled wine and selection of hard ciders.
mercier-orchards.com ; 8660 Blue Ridge Drive, Blue Ridge, GA 30513; 706-632-3411
Explore The Chattahoochee National Forest
If outdoor adventure is what you're after—and if you're not content to just drive through—plan a hike in the Chattahoochee National Forest, a verdant gem that stretches for 867,000 mountainous and wooded acres. You'll find jumping-off points for the Appalachian Trail nearby; hard-core hikers can take a 35-mile drive south to the top of Springer Mountain, where the trail starts the 2,197-mile journey to Maine.
fs.usda.gov/conf
Admire Wonderful Waterfalls
Many of us like for a hike to end with a splash, and trips to Long Creek Falls, Falls Branch Falls, Sea Creek Falls, and Jacks River Falls do just that. The area is dotted with dramatic waterfalls , which make for lovely hikes in and around Blue Ridge.
blueridgemountains.com/things-to-do/outdoors/hiking/waterfalls
Make A Splash
Lake Blue Ridge offers kayaking, canoeing, swimming, and stand-up paddling for those who want to get their feet wet. For a more relaxed pace, rent a pontoon boat and motor around this beautiful mountain lake . During the warmer months, Blue Ridge Tubing offers family-friendly trips down the Toccoa River.
brtubing.com ; 8436 Aska Road, Blue Ridge, GA 30513; 706-851-7901
Get In A Game Of Golf
Golfers won't want to miss Old Toccoa Farm, Blue Ridge's picturesque, Bunker Hill-designed course. You'll feel like you're in paradise when you take in the spectacular views of valleys, meadows, and a national forest along the winding fairways. Call ahead for a tee time and to make your reservation at the Tavern, where you can sample warm trout dip and a pork chop with apple-bacon compote.
oldtoccoafarm.com/golf ; 596 Curtis Switch Road, Mineral Bluff, GA 30559; 706-946-4653
Where To Eat And Drink In Blue Ridge, Georgia
See What's On Tap At Area Breweries
With half a dozen breweries in Blue Ridge, you're sure to find an ale, lager, porter, or wheat that suits your tastes. Grumpy Old Men Brewing was started by two retirees who learned to brew in an outdoor shower. Now serving in a brewery, visitors can choose from 24 beers on tap. Stop at Tipping Point Brewing for a pint and catch live music, trivia, or Sunday football.
grumpyoldmenbrewing.com ; 1315 East Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA 30513; 706-946-2739
tippingpointbrewing.com ; 322 West Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA 30513; 706-946-2765
Tour Wineries
Just a short 4-mile drive away, Bear Claw Vineyards provides tastings of its Chardonnay, Riesling, Cabernet Sauvignon, and other wines. The idyllic winery is child- and dog-friendly and offers entertainment ranging from corn hole to live music on weekends. You can even stay on-site at the famed Blue Ridge TreeHouse, built by the TreeHouse Guys for the DIY Network TV show. Travel outside Blue Ridge and you'll find more wineries, breweries, and distilleries in nearby Ellijay and Blairsville.
bearclawvineyards.com ; 2281 Tennis Court Road, Blue Ridge, GA 30513; 706-223-3750
Eat Cake
It’s no surprise Rum Cake Lady Cuban Cafe is known for its desserts. You can order a mini, half, or whole rum cake depending on your mood or travel group size. It’s also a good spot for traditional Cuban sandwiches, made with roast pork and Bolo ham.
rumcakelady.com ; 205 West First Street, Blue Ridge, GA 30513; 706-946-4525
Get Your Favorite Sandwiches
Check out the lunch menu at downtown’s Cantaberry Restaurant when you can get homemade soups (the tomato soup gets rave reviews), salads, and sandwiches. Diners will find favorites like pimento cheese, egg salad, and club sandwiches. The bakery case displays the day’s dessert specials.
cantaberry.com ; 524 East Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA 30513; 706-946-7687
Treat Yourself To Local Flavor
Dine and relax on the patio under a 200-year-old oak tree at Black Sheep Restaurant. Located in the 1904 historic Butt House, the restaurant uses local and seasonal ingredients served in an upscale atmosphere. Entrees include hand-cut ribeye, roasted rack of lamb, Salmon Rockefeller, and scallop crawfish etoufee. Choose from the extensive wine list or try a local craft beer.
blacksheepblueridge.com ; 80 West Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA 30513; 706-946-3663
Frequently asked Questions
What are the top-rated hiking trails near Blue Ridge, Georgia?
Blue Ridge, Georgia, has access to many major trail systems , including the Appalachian Trail. Some popular hiking trails in the area include the hike to Long Creek Falls, which is ideal for beginners, and a 30-minute hike from Benton MacKaye Trail, to Fall Branch Falls, where you'll see a double waterfall. Other trails include the Swinging Bridge Trails and Aska Trails.
What are some annual festivals in Blue Ridge, Georgia?
Blue Ridge, Georgia, keeps a busy year-round calendar filled with festivals and events . Some top festivals in the area include the Annual Fire and Ice Chili Cook-Off, Blue Ridge Troutfest & Outdoor Adventures, Blue Ridge Mountains Wine and Jazz Festival, Spring & Fall Arts in the Park, and Blue Ridge Blues and BBQ Music Festival.
Why is Blue Ridge, Georgia, popular?
This town was settled during the 1800s as a railroad stop. Now it boasts a walkable downtown with shops and galleries and draws outdoors enthusiasts who like to hike, fish, see wildlife, and go whitewater rafting.
Read the original article on Southern Living
