Things to do & places to visit in Helen, Georgia, United States

Helen, a Bavarian Alps replica town in Appalachian Georgia, is home to an Oktoberfest for the ages, overflowing with two-liter beer glasses and Germany's famous bratwursts. To recover from the festivities, the savviest make their way to Cedar Creek Luxury Cabins on the edge of the Chattahoochee National Forest.

Helen city in Georgia, United States. Timezone: America/New_York, current date and time: Thursday, May 09, 2024, 1:26.

Top things to do (19)

Top places to visit (30 attractions) view more »

5.0 Anna Ruby Falls (2.845 reviews)
- Worth the Hike
Thursday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Waterfalls

This is a short half mile paved hike. It does have a steep incline near the end, so we recommend pacing yourself. The falls are beautiful and definitely worth it. We did see a large age range hiking. I personally would not recommend this for toddlers, as there are steep drop offs on the sides of the trails. Though we did see several toddlers. I also would only recommend strollers or wheelchairs for those who are physically strong to push up a steep incline, or who plan to take breaks on the way up. There are benches along the path.There is a nice gift shop and friendly staff on the premises. It probably took us 30 minutes to hike up, view, and hike back down. They do charge $5 per per adult. See more..
5.0 Village Peddler Women's Boutique and Cabin Decor (138 reviews)
- By far our favorite shop in Helen!
Speciality & Gift Shops

4,000 sq. ft. store with women's clothing and all the accessories, including jewelry. Garden accents and cabin decor. Large selection of quilts. See more..
5.0 AxeBilly Helen-Ga (69 reviews)
- Good family competition for indoor fun
Thursday: 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Game & Entertainment Centers

Helen's only Axe Throwing Facility. 7 lanes for throwing with Axe and Knife upgrades available. Cornhole, Darts, Beer, Wine, & Concessions. The newest attraction in town and INDOORS for fun in all weather. Book ONLINE at See more..
5.0 Riverside Park (5 reviews)
- First visit to Helen
Parks

This little park was right across the street from our hotel. Me and my 3 year old walked over every day and he played. Slides and swings are abundant. Next to the river so you could hear the rustle of the water. Benches/swings for the moms too! He loved it. See more..
4.5 Unicoi State Park (887 reviews)
- Picnic areas still open
State Parks

Unlike at neighboring Anna Ruby Falls (run by the USFS), Unicoi still has its picnic areas open. Although we were there on a Saturday, there were still tables and grills available. The large covered tables can be reserved ahead of time for a fee, but the regular size tables are first come, first serve. Their bathrooms were also open. See more..
4.5 Hansel and Gretel Candy Kitchen (480 reviews)
- Heaven
Thursday: 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM Speciality & Gift Shops

Hansel & Gretel Candy Kitchen is a manufacturing retailer of fine chocolates and other confections, established in 1973. Owned by David and Janet Jones. Hand-crafted gourmet chocolates & candies. We sell truffles, creams, two kinds of fudge, gourmet pecan & peanut brittle, chocolate strawberries, chocolate pretzels, gourmet caramels & snapper "turtles," divinity and so much more! See more..
4.5 Habersham Vineyards & Winery (450 reviews)
- Great and Fun time
Thursday: 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM Wineries & Vineyards

Habersham Winery has been producing award winning Georgia wines since 1983 and is one of Georgia's oldest and largest wineries. See more..
4.5 Chattahoochee River (448 reviews)
- MUST DO in Helen GA
Bodies of Water

This may be the most popular thing to do in Helen! Cool River tubing offers two tubing lengths so you can decide how long you want to be on the river. There was a lot of rain the week we stayed, making the river rise. My family said lots of people flipped and my Dad actually fell off of his tube, losing his stick and hit his head on a rock. Definitely recommend the stick rental because many people get stuck on rocks. Tether with your group members because you easily and quickly get separated on the river. Lots of fun for the young and old. Lower water levels would probably have made for a less intense ride. See more..
4.5 Dukes Creek Falls Trail (400 reviews)
- Beautiful Falls...
Hiking Trails

This is a relatively short hike down to the falls viewing platform that is effortless through the woods. Beautiful falls viewing area that would make a great family outing. There are picnic tables and bathroom facilities at the trailhead. See more..
4.5 Raven Cliff Falls (306 reviews)
- Vigorous 5 Mile Hike
Hiking Trails

Many hiking trails bordered by scenic mountain streams, waterfalls and other scenic vistas abound throughout this 9,115-acre natural reserve. See more..
4.5 Nora Mill Granary (267 reviews)
- I love this place
Thursday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent < 1 hour Speciality & Gift Shops

Established in 1876, Nora Mill Granary is an operational gristmill sitting alongside the Chattahoochee River in the foothills of the North Georgia Mountains. At Nora Mill, we utilize the original 1,500 pound French Burr Stones to grind and produce all kind of corn and wheat based products such as grits, cornmeal, pancake & waffle mixes, flours, biscuit & bread mixes, pioneer's porridge, and the like. In addition, we have an old-fashioned country store & gift shop that we have named "Nora Mill Next Door." Our country store is stocked with thousands of new items and even has a large kitchen built just for cooking & serving samples of our mill & store products. You can purchase our products at our mill and/or on-line within our web site. See more..
4.5 Georgia Mountain Coaster (176 reviews)
- So much fun!
Thursday: 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent < 1 hour Amusement & Theme Parks

The Georgia Mountain Coaster is the first Alpine Coaster in Georgia. Our coaster is built by the top manufacturers in the world and glides through a beautiful mountain forest with views of one hundred year old ruins. As you rush down the mountain, you are in full control of your speed. Go fast or go slow— it’s completely up to you. Get ready to hammer down and experience the thrill of the mountain! We are located in downtown Helen, GA so come check us out! See more..
4.5 Nacoochee Village Antique Mall (123 reviews)
- Antiques-plentiful. Time-need more!!
Thursday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Antique Shops • Shopping Malls

Nacoochee Antique Mall is located in the historic Martin House in Helen Georgia. We have, at any time, 40-50 dealers spread out over 7,000 square feet and three floors. We have a wide variety of antiques and collectibles for both men and women, and young and old. We are part of the Nacoochee Village group of businesses which includes a winery, grits mill, coffee shop, and much more! See more..
4.5 Outpost Gold and Gem (113 reviews)
- Absolutely Amazing!
Thursday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Speciality & Gift Shops • Game & Entertainment Centers

Strike It Rich in Helen, Georgia at the Outpost Gold & Gem! The Outpost Gold & Gem is a family attraction that is fun for all ages. Try your luck with our Pay Dirt Buckets, filled with Concentrated Gold, Fossils, or Rare Earth Gems, such as rubies, sapphires, emeralds, amethyst, topaz, and more! All of our panning tables are covered and we are open rain or shine. Get hands on lessons from our trained and helpful staff. They are always nearby to help you identify your finds and evaluate them. Everyone takes home a treasure! After you are finished, don't forget to stop by our gift shop, Southwestern Outpost! The Navajo ways of life make for a unique Southwestern culture. Our gift shop offers a wide selection of Southwestern gifts & decor including authentic Native American arts and handcrafts, lamps, paintings, fossils, and more! Whether you are admiring an authentic Navajo Horse Hair vase or trying a turquoise and sterling silver ring on for size, you will be struck by the uniqueness and history of each individually handcrafted piece. You can even pick up a bucket of our Outpost Gold or Gemstone Pay Dirt to take home or stock up on authentic gold mining supplies. We can accommodate any size group, whether it is a tour group, class field trip, scout troop, or family gathering. Customers are always welcome without reservations. We have several options to choose from and you can spend an hour or all day at the Outpost. Start planning your trip to beautiful Helen, GA and the Outpost Gold & Gem Mine. See more..
4.5 Yonah Mountain Hiking Trail (110 reviews)
- Great Views worth the work to get to the top
Hiking Trails

So this is a strenuous hike but very manageable if you take your time on the uphill part. The trail itself is beautiful and well marked. We arrived early and were able to park in the parking lot. The parking lot is on the smallish side however there is parking along the road leading to the trail. The road going to the trailhead is unpaved and has some large ruts,etc. The views are very pretty from the top and well worth a visit. I would recommend shoes with good grip due to the few sections that require climbing over rock,etc. We took our small dog ( 15lbs) with us and he only needed carried over a few places. On the way down we did pass a lot of people coming up the trail and there were a few sections that required you to wait until others passed. I would definitely arrive early. See more..
4.5 Fred's Famous Peanuts (108 reviews)
- Apples!!
Speciality & Gift Shops

Stopped here after Anna Ruby Falls. I was hoping to see a place selling apples. The selection was great. These apples were so delicious. I will be sad when I am finished eating them. I love the little ones. See more..
4.5 Smithgall Woods Conservation Area (100 reviews)
- Wide variety of trail options
Thursday: 7:00 AM - 7:00 PM State Parks • Nature & Wildlife Areas

We hiked almost 4 miles from the Visitor’s Center, past the covered bridge (Bay’s Bridge), and then took Ash Creek Trail back. Ash Creek Trail was more challenging than we expected — hiking poles would have been helpful, and we had to remove socks and shoes to cross both Ash Creek (ankle deep) and Dukes Creek (almost knee deep). We were the only ones hiking Ash Creek Trail, which was a nice change after visiting the fairly busy Dukes Creek Falls. See more..
4.5 Unicoi Hill Park (87 reviews)
- NIce little pocket park in bustling downtown Helen, Georgia
Parks

Comfortable public space in the heart Helen, Georgia. The Alana Falls is on the here, the little falls on the little hill at the heart of town named after a "founder's" daughter or wife. A nice place to take the kids. Helen is more of an adult tourist attraction kid zone so this provides a place for recreation and relaxation for the young and others. It gets quiet walking the path some days surprising as it is so close to Main Street with the people and vehicles. See more..
4.5 The Willows Pottery (64 reviews)
- Great gift place!
Thursday: 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM Art Galleries

We have been creating functional handmade stoneware since 2003. We specialize in custom dinnerware and vessel sinks. We are proud to provide an excellent selection of locally made gifts. See more..
4.5 Helen Arts & Heritage Center (22 reviews)
- Loved It
Thursday: 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM Art Museums

We visited the center in the hopes of learning more about the transformation of Helen. We weren't disappointed. The videos, before and after photos, and Helen memorabilia was informative, interesting and well presented. Anyone visiting Helen should really stop in. It's an amazing story. See more..
4.5 Sweet Acre Farms Winery Tasting Room- Helen (14 reviews)
- The best wine tasting in town
Thursday: Spent < 1 hour Wineries & Vineyards

This is a satellite tasting room in Helen for Sweet Acre Farms Winery (home winery is located in Alto, Ga). We are a family owned winery specializing in the best fruit wine in the state! Come enjoy tastings, flights, and wine slushies. Pick your favorites and get a glass, bottle or even a case! See more..
4.5 Helen Veterans Park (7 reviews)
- Veteran Tribute.
Parks

5/5 Rating! The park was a tasteful reminder of the price our veterans have paid for our freedom! There is a GeoCache hidden in the park! See more..
4.0 Alpine Helen / White County Convention & Visitors Bureau (167 reviews)
- A Touch of Bavaria in Georgia
Visitor Centers

What a great little town. Like it was moved here as-is from Bavaria. Enjoying a couple of days here checking out the town, shops, restaurants, etc. You have to try some of the authentic German food in some of the specialized eateries. Lots to see and do... Recommend. See more..
4.0 Horsetrough Falls (31 reviews)
- Horsetrough falls
Waterfalls

It's a little hard to find, if you have a GPS it's much easier to find. N34* 47.53 W83*47.24. It's in the back of a campground, when you get to the foot bridge walk up the right side of the creek. If you walk up the left side you do not get as good a view of the falls. Great place to take a dip if it's hot, there is a little pool at the bottom of the falls. See more..
4.0 Glass Mountain Gallery & Studio (22 reviews)
- Beautiful!
Thursday: Art Galleries

Glass Mountain Gallery & Studio is open to the public between Labor Day and Christmas only, as this is the time of year we are blowing glass. We invite you to come 'watch us dance with fire' between 10:00 am and 5:00 pm any Friday, Saturday, Sunday or holiday Monday during these months. All other dates/times we will open the gallery by appointment - just call 706-878-1978 to schedule a private viewing. All free of charge! See more..
4.0 Richard B. Russell Scenic By-Way (10 reviews)
- Great way to spend lazy fall afternoon!
Spent 1-2 hours Scenic Drives
Twisty mountain road with great viewing areas along the route. Done in Oct and you get double win of fall colors. Just you and nature - the way it should be. No distractions- life at it’s best. See more..
4.0 Chattahoochee Ruby Mines (2 reviews)
- Disappointing
Spent 1-2 hours Mines
After reading the one glowing review of this place, my wife and I felt like we had to go since we are major rock hounds! They do have some cool specimens for sale, but a good most of them are very overpriced. Most of the really colorful "rocks" you see from the road are actually slag glass; cool looking but definitely not real gems. They also had some stones like selenite that really shouldn't get wet uncovered and out in the open, starting to melt. The guy said they were remodeling, which could explain the amount of mess, but I was still kind of shocked to see so many specimens getting ruined by the weather, especially since it looked like a lot of the stuff had been sitting in place for basically forever. I'm giving it three stars despite being disappointed because they did have some cool stuff, but a lot of it was damaged or dirty. I really wish I could have given it a better review but I just can't. See more..
3.5 Stovall Mill Covered Bridge (239 reviews)
- Worth stopping if you like stuff like this
Bridges

It wasn’t out of our way, we stayed about ten mins and glad we saw it. We had never seen a old bridge like this in person, just in the movies. If you like stuff like this then it’s worth it. Sad to see that people are selfish and write graffiti on it :( See more..
3.5 Romeo and Juliet Indian Mound Tragedy Site (172 reviews)
- An interesting piece of history
Historic Sites

An Indian burial site for the star-crossed lovers. See more..
3.0 Fox Winery (51 reviews)
- Interesting regional wines
Wineries & Vineyards

This tasting room is in downtown Helen, and the wines are inexpensive and good. They tend toward sweeter wines, but offer a refreshing change from the California and French wines. See more..