Nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Helen, Georgia welcomes over 3 million visitors annually despite having a permanent population of just 531 residents. This charming Bavarian-themed village offers a unique blend of Alpine architecture, outdoor adventures, and authentic German culture that makes it one of North Georgia’s most beloved destinations. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a day trip from Atlanta, our guide highlights the best Helen Georgia things to do for an unforgettable mountain escape.
Getting to Helen, Georgia
Located approximately 90 minutes north of Atlanta, Helen is easily accessible by car via GA-400 N and US-19 N. The scenic drive through the North Georgia mountains is part of the experience, with winding roads offering breathtaking views of the Appalachian foothills.
Ready to Visit Helen?
Find the best flight deals to Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport, the closest major airport to Helen (about 1.5 hours away).
For those driving from other directions, Helen is approximately 3.5 hours from Charlotte, 2 hours from Chattanooga, and 3 hours from Greenville. Once you arrive, the compact downtown area is easily walkable, though you’ll want a vehicle to explore nearby attractions like Anna Ruby Falls and Unicoi State Park.
Explore at Your Own Pace
Rent a car to discover all the hidden gems around Helen and the North Georgia mountains.
Best Time to Visit Helen
Helen shines in different ways throughout the year, but the most popular seasons are fall and summer. September through October brings Oktoberfest celebrations, vibrant fall foliage, and pleasant temperatures in the 60s and 70s°F. Summer (June-August) offers perfect weather for tubing on the Chattahoochee River and outdoor adventures, with temperatures typically ranging from 75-85°F.
Spring brings beautiful wildflowers and fewer crowds, while winter transforms Helen into a charming holiday destination with festive decorations and occasional light snowfall. The annual Christkindlmarkt in December offers a traditional German Christmas market experience that shouldn’t be missed.
Top Attractions in Helen
1. Downtown Helen
The heart of Helen is its charming downtown area, where Bavarian-style architecture creates a storybook atmosphere. Stroll along cobblestone streets lined with specialty shops, restaurants, and candy stores. Don’t miss Hansel and Gretel Candy Kitchen for handmade chocolates and treats – they often offer free samples while you watch confections being made.
2. Tubing the Chattahoochee
One of the most popular Helen Georgia things to do during summer months is tubing down the Chattahoochee River. Cool River Tubing offers affordable one-hour or two-hour floats through the heart of town. At just $10 per tube on weekdays ($14 on weekends), it’s a refreshing and budget-friendly way to experience Helen from a different perspective.
3. Anna Ruby Falls
Just a short drive from downtown, Anna Ruby Falls offers one of the most accessible and spectacular waterfall experiences in North Georgia. The paved one-mile trail is suitable for all ages and abilities, leading to a viewing platform of the twin waterfalls. The recreation area is open from 9 AM to 5 PM daily, with a modest $3 entrance fee.
4. Unicoi State Park
Unicoi State Park offers a wealth of outdoor activities just minutes from downtown Helen. The 1,050-acre park features hiking trails, a beautiful lake for swimming and fishing, zip-lining adventures, and mountain biking. The 2.5-mile Unicoi Lake Trail provides stunning views and is perfect for a leisurely hike. The park also offers lodging options including a lodge, cabins, and campsites.
Experience Helen’s Top Attractions
Book guided tours, outdoor adventures, and skip-the-line tickets for the best experiences in Helen.
5. Georgia Mountain Coaster
For thrill-seekers, the Georgia Mountain Coaster offers an exhilarating alpine slide experience. As the first alpine coaster in Georgia, this gravity-driven ride lets you control your own speed as you twist and turn down the mountainside. While the $20 per ride price tag is a bit steep, second rides are offered at half price, and the unique experience makes it worth considering.
German Cuisine and Local Dining
No visit to Helen is complete without sampling authentic German cuisine. Bodensee Restaurant stands out for its traditional dishes like Jagerschnitzel (pork schnitzel with mushroom gravy) and spaetzle (soft German noodles). For a quintessential Bavarian experience, head to King Ludwig’s Biergarten for giant pretzels and steins of German beer, often accompanied by live music.
For a break from German fare, try Nacoochee Tavern for what locals consider some of the best pizza in North Georgia. Coffee enthusiasts should make the short drive to Sweetwater Coffeehouse in nearby Sautee for exceptional coffee and handmade pottery from The Willows.
Shopping and Souvenirs
Helen’s charming shops offer everything from traditional German products to handcrafted local goods. Wildewood is a must-visit for unique handcrafted items and gifts, with a large porch displaying merchandise amid the peaceful sound of windchimes. Betty’s Country Store is a local institution known for its homemade cookies (reportedly the size of dinner plates), local goods, and selection of beer and wine.
For families with children, Tim’s Wooden Toys offers handcrafted, durable wooden toys made on-site. Watch the toymaking process and pick up a unique souvenir that will last for generations. Nostalgic parents might enjoy a trip to Babyland General, birthplace of the Cabbage Patch Kids, located a short drive from Helen with free admission.
Outdoor Adventures
The North Georgia mountains surrounding Helen offer endless opportunities for outdoor recreation. Beyond the popular Anna Ruby Falls, adventurous hikers can explore Raven Cliff Falls via a longer, more rugged trail that leads to a spectacular waterfall cutting through solid granite. The Appalachian Trail is also accessible just north of Helen in the Tray Mountain Wilderness, perfect for those wanting to experience a section of this iconic trail.
For an adrenaline rush, try zip-lining at Nacoochee Adventures or Screaming Eagle Adventures at Unicoi State Park. These canopy tours offer a bird’s-eye view of the forest and mountains, with options ranging from 30 minutes to 4 hours depending on your appetite for adventure.
Family-Friendly Activities
Helen excels at providing entertainment for all ages. Families with children will enjoy the various mini-golf options, including Bavarian Mountain Miniature Golf and Arcade (featuring waterfalls and streams), Pirates Cove Adventure Golf (barrier-free for strollers), and Alpine Mini Golf with nearby ice cream at Scoop De Scoop.
The Alpine Fun Factory offers multiple indoor activities under one roof, including go-karts, laser tag, a skating rink, and bounce zone. For a unique experience, visit Alpine Speedway, home to the largest 1/32 scale slot car road course in the US, with free entry and spectating.
Where to Stay in Helen
Helen offers accommodations for every preference and budget. The Holiday Inn Express consistently receives high ratings and includes breakfast, with a convenient location just a 10-15 minute walk from downtown and next to Cool River Tubing. For a more authentic experience, consider the Heidi Motel with its Bavarian-themed rooms, or opt for a cabin experience at Bear Creek Lodge & Cabins.
For a full resort experience, Unicoi State Park & Lodge offers rooms, cabins, and camping options with on-site activities including hiking, kayaking, and zip-lining. Booking in advance is essential, especially during Oktoberfest and summer weekends when accommodations fill quickly.
Find Your Perfect Stay in Helen
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Practical Tips for Visiting Helen
Getting Around
Downtown Helen is compact and walkable, but you’ll need a car to explore attractions outside town. Parking is available throughout Helen, with both free and paid options. During peak seasons (Oktoberfest and summer weekends), arrive early to secure parking closer to the main attractions.
Weather Considerations
Mountain weather can be unpredictable. Even in summer, bring a light jacket for cooler evenings. If planning outdoor activities, check the forecast and have a backup plan. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer but typically pass quickly.
Budget Planning
Helen offers activities for every budget. Save money by mixing free attractions (downtown strolling, window shopping) with paid experiences. Many restaurants offer lunch specials, and accommodations are typically cheaper Sunday through Thursday.
Family Travel
Most attractions in Helen are family-friendly. For tubing, children must be able to sit upright independently. Many restaurants offer kids’ menus, and the walkable downtown makes it easy to take breaks as needed.
Plan Your Helen Georgia Adventure
With its unique Bavarian charm, stunning natural beauty, and wealth of activities, Helen offers a European-inspired escape without leaving the Southeast. Whether you’re floating down the Chattahoochee, hiking to waterfalls, sampling German cuisine, or simply soaking in the Alpine atmosphere, Helen delivers an experience unlike anywhere else in Georgia.
The best Helen Georgia things to do combine outdoor adventure with cultural experiences, creating memories that will last long after you return home. Pack your hiking boots and your appetite for pretzels and adventure – this charming mountain village is waiting to be explored!
