Introduction
When I first decided to take a weekend trip to Helen, Georgia, I expected a charming mountain town, maybe some nice hiking and good food. What I found was far more magical — a Bavarian-style village tucked into the North Georgia Mountains, full of charm, adventure, big laughs, and scenic escapes. From tubing down a river to exploring German-inspired architecture, Helen gave me one of those getaways that felt like both rest and adventure. If you’re planning a visit, here are 12 of the best & fun things to do in Helen, based on what I loved, discovered, and would absolutely go back for.
12 Best & Fun Things To Do In Helen, GA (Have Some Fun!)
1. Stroll Downtown Helen’s Alpine Village
One of the first things I did was wander around downtown Helen — the “Alpine Village” area where the buildings are styled like a Bavarian town, complete with cobblestone-style walkways, timber-framed facades, and the Chattahoochee River running alongside. According to Helen’s official site, the town may be just over two square miles, but it packs a lot of life and character.
Tip: Take your time browsing the little boutiques, grab a pretzel or German pastry, and just soak in the feel of the village.
2. Tube the Chattahoochee River
On a warm day, nothing beats grabbing a tube and floating down the Chattahoochee River with friends. It’s a signature Helen experience. One guide calls it “Shoot the Hooch” and notes rental shops in town offering tubing trips lasting one to three hours.
Tip: Bring sunscreen, a waterproof bag for your phone, and a sense of fun—you’ll want to just go with the flow literally.
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3. Visit Anna Ruby Falls
Just a short drive from Helen lies Anna Ruby Falls — a gorgeous double waterfall tucked in the mountains (inside Unicoi State Park). It’s an easy hike, and even on a weekday I found it peaceful.
Tip: Wear comfortable shoes and go in daylight for the full effect of the falls and forest ambiance.
4. Ride the Georgia Mountain Coaster
For something fun and a little thrilling, I tried the Georgia Mountain Coaster — Georgia’s first alpine coaster. The ride climbs up the mountain and then you control your speed going down through the forest.
Tip: If you’re visiting with family or want a break from hiking, this is an excellent choice. Bring a jacket for the ride down (the breeze picks up!).
5. Hike in Unicoi State Park & Lake
I also spent time at Unicoi State Park & Lodge — a 1,050-acre park just outside Helen, with a nice lake (Unicoi Lake), trails, and beautiful forest.
Tip: Pack a picnic and go for a stroll around the lake trail, or rent a kayak if you’re up for it.
6. Explore the Historic Hardman Farm State Historic Site & Indian Mound
One afternoon I drove a few minutes to Hardman Farm State Historic Site. This elegant 1870s estate includes a mansion, historic buildings, and the nearby Nacoochee Indian Mound — perfect for a mix of history and nature.
Tip: Ask about guided tours of the mansion. The grounds invite slower exploration and a bit less hustle than downtown.
7. Enjoy German-Inspired Cuisine & Beer
Since Helen is styled like a Bavarian village, indulging in German food and beer was a must. Think bratwurst, schnitzel, and steins of beer. One list highlights “German and Bavarian foods” as part of what sets Helen apart.
Tip: Visit one of the beer gardens after a full day of sightseeing — it’s a delicious reward.
8. Visit the Historic Nora Mill Granary
For something a little slower-paced, the Nora Mill Granary is a working grist mill from 1876, right by the river. I stopped there to buy freshly ground cornmeal and enjoy the river setting.
Tip: It’s a nice spot to pause for tea or browse local goods—less adrenaline and more charm.
9. Wine Tasting at a Local Vineyard
Not everyone knows that this mountain region also has vineyards. I visited a local winery near Helen for tastings and discovered some surprising wines from the region.
Tip: Plan for a light lunch and go for a tasting afternoon — returning to Helen for dinner afterwards keeps the day balanced.
10. Experience the Fall Foliage
If you happen to visit in the fall, the leaves are stunning. Helen in autumn becomes especially picturesque—crisp air, mountain views, golden colors. According to local sources, the fall season is one of the draws.
Tip: Book lodging early for fall weekends. Go for a scenic drive outside town to catch the full color spectrum.
11. Visit the Sautee Nacoochee Indian Mound & Scenic Overlooks
One quiet but meaningful stop is the Nacoochee Indian Mound—an archaeological and scenic site atop a hill, offering good photo-ops and peaceful vibes. The Hardman Farm site noted it as one of the area’s best “photo moments.”
Tip: Arrive just before sunset if you can, for the best light and fewer people.
12. Family Fun & Mini-Golf by the River
I didn’t expect mini-golf in my mountain getaway, but Helen delivers with family-friendly attractions like Bavarian-themed mini-golf, arcades, and riverside spots perfect for kids or fun evenings after dinner.
Tip: Keep the evening free for relaxed fun — it rounds out your active day nicely.
Final Thoughts
Helen, Georgia is one of those places where you arrive thinking “I’ll see some scenery” and you leave thinking “I’m already planning my next visit.” What makes it special is the blend: charming downtown vibes, outdoorsy mountain air, a village that feels unique, and a pace that lets you both move and rest.
Here are a few takeaways from my trip:
- Balance: Mix active (hiking, tubing, coaster) with mellow (wine tasting, mini-golf, scenic overlooks).
- Pick your season: Fall brings color, summer brings tubing, winter brings festive lights — each time has its charm.
- Stay in town but explore outside: Downtown Helen is cute and fun, but the surrounding nature is what’ll steal your heart.
- Go early or during off-peak times if you want less crowd and more serenity.
- Bring layers: Mountain weather changes; even in summer the evenings can be crisp.
If I had to sum it up: Helen lives up to the “somewhere magical” category. It’s not huge or flashy, but it’s full—full of laughter, full of nature, full of charm. From the moment I grabbed a bratwurst downtown to the moment I floated down the river, I felt like I’d discovered a small town with big heart.