The North Georgia mountains are full of things for visitors to do on their Georgia Mountain Getaways. There are an abundance of events, shopping opportunities, delicious restaurants, and outdoor activities. Among the many things to do are these ten hidden treasures that you’ll want to experience on your next trip to a North Georgia mountains cabin in the Helen area.
What hidden treasures have you found on your Georgia Mountain Getaways?
- Alpine Carriage Company There’s no better way to enjoy the quaint Bavarian town of Helen than on a peaceful carriage ride. The Alpine Carriage Company serves the Village of Helen with daily ride service; no reservation required. The drivers offer historical information and the horses love it when guests bring them a carrot. You can find the carriages throughout downtown Helen for a standard ride or you can contact them directly to schedule an off-route ride. These rides are perfect for special occasions, a romantic evening, or a family ride to a favorite location.
- The Willows Pottery Both a working studio and pottery gallery, The Willows Pottery is an ideal destination for a leisurely afternoon. Local potters are often visible, working in the studio making pieces for the store’s gallery. More than just potter is for sale; the gallery includes work by local artisans who specialize in jewelry, photography, fiber art, soaps, and basket weaving.
- Hansel and Gretel Candy Kitchen This candy shop has been making delicious treats since 1973, allowing guests to satisfy their sweet tooth on their Georgia getaways. The Kitchen specializes in homemade fudge, caramel apples, turtle candies, and whipped cream caramels. They also offer chocolate gift boxes to take with you as a memento of your time in the North Georgia mountains.
- Babyland General Hospital For over thirty years the Georgia mountains have been home to Babyland General Hospital and the Cabbage Patch Kids. Adults and children alike can learn more about Xavier Roberts’ creation of the Cabbage Patch Kids dolls and the history of Appalachian doll making. Special events and historical presentations are excellent additions to the daily work of the hospital.
- Dukes Creek Mines The mountains of North Georgia were once filled with miners searching for gold in the rich soil and clear river waters. This mining heritage has been preserved at Dukes Creek Mines for visitors enjoying Georgia getaways. You can grab a pan and get to work on a bucket of material that may contain gems, gold, bloodstone, or quartz. Local mining experts are ready to give you a panning lesson or evaluate your finds. This is a great activity for the entire family and a wonderful way to learn more about the history of the Georgia mountains.
- Loganberry Heritage Farm Since 1828 this farm has been a part of the Turner family. The current farm stewards are committed to a natural farming approach that focuses on organic growing and sustainability. The farm is open to guests who want to know more about their natural farming techniques or who want to buy local, organic produce
- Scarlet’s Secret If you are a ‘Gone with the Wind’ fan you need to plan an excursion to this two-story plantation-style manor that is furnished and decorated as a Civil War recreation. This is a fantastic destination for viewing historic artifacts, learning more about ‘Gone with the Wind’, or enjoying the famous teas and desserts.
- Black Forest Bear Company Located on Helen’s Main Street this exhibit is an excellent opportunity to view a variety of bears and learn more about their protection and rehabilitation. The owners of the Black Forest Bear Company have over ten years of experience caring for and rehabilitating bears in need. You will have an opportunity to see the bears up close and may even help feed them.
- Woody’s Mountain Bikes This outdoor establishment specializes in bicycle tours, rentals, repairs, sales, and promoting cycling on Georgia getaways. The Georgia mountains are the perfect place for a rugged mountain bike ride or a relaxing family ride through the local parks. Tours are two or more hours long and include a shuttle ride, mountain bike rental, and other required gear.
- Gourd Place The oldest retail gourdcrafting business in North America is an ideal destination for your Georgia getaways. The “Gourd Girls” have spent decades refining their craft and creating items such as planters, ornaments, dolls, masks, and toys from gourds. The retail space also includes other arts and crafts from local artisans. You can shop for local pottery, jewelry, art, photography, and gifts.
Since everything about Helen is extraordinary we certainly missed a few hidden treasures. What did we leave off that you think should be included?
