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Nestled in the heart of North Georgia‘s Blue Ridge Mountains, Ellijay is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. Known as the “Apple Capital,” this charming town offers more than just apple orchards. With its rich southern hospitality, breathtaking outdoor scenery, and exciting activities, Ellijay is the perfect destination for your next getaway.
Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or a mix of both, Ellijay has something for everyone. From picking fresh apples at local orchards to exploring the town’s historic downtown, you’ll find plenty of fun activities to enjoy. As you plan your trip to this North Georgia gem, get ready to experience the best of what Ellijay has to offer.
Discovering Ellijay: Georgia’s Apple Capital
As you step into Ellijay, you’re immediately enveloped in the charm of Georgia’s Apple Capital. This picturesque town is steeped in history and surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty.
A Brief History of Ellijay
Ellijay’s rich history dates back centuries, beginning with Cherokee settlements at the confluence of the Cartecay and Ellijay Rivers. The town’s development accelerated in the 1800s with the arrival of white settlers, who established log cabins, a courthouse, and a school. The completion of the Cartecay River railroad bridge in 1884 marked a significant turning point, leading to substantial growth and prosperity.
Getting to and Around Ellijay
Getting to Ellijay is straightforward, with options including flying into Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport or Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport, followed by a scenic drive through the mountain landscape. A rental car is essential for exploring the area, as public transportation is limited in this rural North Georgia region.
Explore Downtown Ellijay’s Charm
The heart of Ellijay beats strongest in its downtown area, where visitors can experience the town‘s unique charm. As you stroll through the historic district, you’ll find a variety of eclectic boutique shops and delicious local eats.
Antique Shopping and Local Boutiques
Downtown Ellijay serves as the vibrant heart of this mountain town, where historic buildings house eclectic boutiques, antique shops, and local eateries perfect for spending a leisurely afternoon. Antique enthusiasts will delight in stores like Misty Hollow Antiques, Mountain Town Antiques, and Main Street Antiques, where you can hunt for one-of-a-kind treasures and vintage finds.
The walkable downtown area invites visitors to explore at their own pace, with photo opportunities like the painted Coca-Cola mural on Das Kaffee Haus making perfect social media moments.
The Tabor House & Civil War Museum
The historic Tabor House & Civil War Museum, housed in a Victorian home from the 1870s, offers a fascinating glimpse into local history with exhibits featuring Civil War artifacts and one of the Southeast’s largest Civil War libraries. During special events, you might encounter reenactors in period clothing demonstrating 19th-century Georgian lifestyles, adding an immersive dimension to your historical exploration.
At the Tabor House, you can spend a meaningful time exploring the complex past of the region, including artifacts from the early 1800s displacement of Cherokee Native Americans.
Ellijay, Georgia: Best Things to Do for Apple Lovers
Ellijay, Georgia, is a paradise for apple enthusiasts, offering a range of activities that celebrate the region’s apple culture. From apple picking to enjoying local apple treats, there’s something for everyone.
B.J. Reece Orchards
B.J. Reece Orchards spans 200 acres and grows over 30 varieties of apples, offering U-pick experiences during fall months. You can also visit their bakery to watch their signature fried pies being made from scratch.
Hillcrest Orchards
Hillcrest Orchards combines apple picking with family entertainment, featuring a petting farm, pig races, and wagon rides, making it a great destination for families.
The Georgia Apple Festival
The Georgia Apple Festival is a 50+ year tradition that celebrates the apple harvest with demonstrations, live music, local crafts, and endless apple treats over two weekends in October.
Outdoor Adventures in the Appalachian Foothills
Surrounded by the natural beauty of the Appalachian foothills, Ellijay is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The area offers a diverse range of activities, from hiking and mountain biking to water sports on Carters Lake and the Cartecay River.
Hiking Trails for All Skill Levels
Ellijay is surrounded by miles of hiking trails, catering to all skill levels. You’ll find access points to the famous Appalachian Trail, which spans over 2,000 miles from Georgia to Maine. For a shorter hike, try the Cohutta Overlook trail, a steep but rewarding hike with stunning views. For a more challenging experience, tackle the Appalachian Approach Trail to Springer Mountain, a 16-mile route starting at Amicalola Falls State Park.
Water Activities at Carters Lake and Cartecay River
Water lovers can enjoy the pristine Cartecay River, where you can kayak, tube, or try whitewater rafting through the scenic Chattahoochee National Forest. Carters Lake, the deepest lake in the Blue Ridge Mountains, offers swimming, fishing, and boating opportunities. With outfitters like the Cartecay River Experience, you’re sure to have an unforgettable adventure.
Wine Tasting and Local Brews
Ellijay’s picturesque landscape and climate make it an ideal destination for wine tasting and savoring local brews. The region’s vineyards and breweries offer a unique experience that combines natural beauty with local flavors.
Engelheim Vineyards
At the 15-acre family-owned Engelheim Vineyards, you can enjoy award-winning wines and spectacular mountain views. The well-appointed tasting room offers an extensive wine menu, accompanied by small bites and charcuterie. Be sure to check their events calendar for live music performances.
Cartecay Vineyards
Cartecay Vineyards is another excellent spot for wine tasting, with knowledgeable sommeliers guiding you through their variety of locally produced wines. Enjoy the serene atmosphere and take in the beautiful views.
Cartecay River Brewing Company
For beer enthusiasts, Cartecay River Brewing Company offers a taste of the Appalachian craft beer scene. Take advantage of their generous weekday happy hours to sample multiple brews. The brewery’s relaxed atmosphere makes it a perfect spot to unwind and enjoy the local flavors.
The combination of mountain air, scenic views, and locally produced beverages creates a relaxing atmosphere that encourages visitors to slow down and savor their time in Ellijay. When planning your wine and beer tasting adventures, consider arranging transportation in advance, as rideshare services are limited in this rural area.
Where to Eat in Ellijay
Ellijay is a culinary gem, offering a variety of dining experiences that cater to different tastes. After a fun day of exploring the town’s attractions, you’ll find that Ellijay is full of delicious dining options ranging from casual eateries to unique culinary experiences.
Casual Dining Options
For casual dining with Southern flair, visit Cantaberry Restaurant, where you can enjoy hearty soups, sandwiches, and Southern staples like country fried steak and pulled pork sandwiches.
The River Street Tavern offers a speakeasy atmosphere with exposed brick walls and comfort food favorites including smoked trout dip, fried green tomatoes, and substantial hamburgers.
For a dining experience with a view, head to The Roof Ellijay, where climbing to the top floor rewards you with panoramic vistas and southeastern specialties like apple butter meatloaf paired with creative cocktails.
Sweet Treats and Bakeries
Sweet treats abound at A Little Baked Bakery, where you can indulge in melt-in-your-mouth cookies, pies, and breads, or even participate in a traditional afternoon tea service on Mondays and Tuesdays.
Don’t miss stopping by the Bavarian Chocolatier & Fudge & Candy shop to pick up some sweet treats to enjoy back at your accommodation or take home as edible souvenirs.
Ellijay is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and leave you with a lasting impression of its culinary delights.
Unique Ellijay Experiences
The charm of Ellijay lies in its unique experiences that will leave you with lifelong memories. You’ll find a mix of natural beauty, local culture, and exciting activities that make Ellijay a must-visit destination.
Mountain Valley Farm and Store
Established in 1840, Mountain Valley Farm is a historic gem that offers a family-friendly farm experience. You can walk the grounds and interact with various animals like goats, pigs, bunnies, chickens, and calves.
Expedition Bigfoot! The Sasquatch Museum
Located 10 miles north of Ellijay, Expedition Bigfoot! is a quirky museum that will make you question everything you thought you knew about this urban legend. Explore exhibits featuring alleged Bigfoot evidence, including footprint casts and life-sized statues.
During the fall season, combine these unique experiences with seasonal events like the Georgia Apple Festival or live music performances at B.J. Reece Orchards for a truly memorable day. The Blue Ridge region surrounding Ellijay is known for its distinctive attractions that reflect the area’s natural beauty, folklore, and agricultural heritage.
Planning Your Perfect Ellijay Getaway
To plan your perfect Ellijay getaway, consider the time of year and choose from various accommodation options like cozy cabins with mountain views or farm stays.
Visit during fall for apple festivals or summer for water activities on the Cartecay River and Carters Lake. Structure your itinerary to include downtown Ellijay exploration, outdoor adventures, and visits to orchards and farms.
For family trips, balance kid-friendly attractions like Hillcrest Orchards and Mountain Valley Farm with activities everyone can enjoy, such as live music performances at Reece Orchards. Don’t forget to enjoy wine tasting in the region’s vineyards and sample local treats at downtown eateries and bakeries.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an action-packed adventure, Ellijay’s blend of North Georgia mountain charm, outdoor recreation, and small-town hospitality makes it the perfect setting for a memorable getaway in Gilmer County.
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The above is subject to change.
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