Nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, Blue Ridge, Georgia, is a gateway to outdoor adventure, charming southern hospitality, and scenic beauty. This quaint mountain town offers a blend of outdoor pursuits, mouth-watering local cuisine, unique shopping, and immersive cultural experiences.
Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a food lover, an art aficionado, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, Blue Ridge, Georgia, has something for everyone.
This article will guide you through 25 things to do in Blue Ridge.
- Things To Do in Blue Ridge
- 1. Take a Ride on the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway
- 2. Mercier Orchards
- 3. Visit the Swan Drive-In
- 4. Explore Downtown Blue Ridge
- 5. Experience the Toccoa River Swinging Bridge
- 6. Hike the Benton MacKaye Trail
- 7. Blue Ridge Lake Recreation
- 8. Visit the Blue Ridge Community Theater
- 9. Try Local Brews at the Fannin Brewing Company
- 10. Fly Fish in the Toccoa River
- 11. Enjoy Southern Cuisine
- 12. Blue Ridge Farmers Market
- 13. Blue Ridge Adventure Park
- 14. Long Creek Falls
- 15. Blue Ridge Ghost Tour
- 16. Ride the Zipline Canopy Tours of Blue Ridge
- 17. Explore the Aska Trails
- 18. Mountain View Orchards and Cider House Cafe
- 19. Take a Scenic Drive on the Russell-Brasstown National Scenic Byway
- 20. Cohutta Cove Mini Golf
- 21. Toccoa Riverside Restaurant
- 22. The Lilly Pad Village
- 23. Fall Branch Falls
- 24. Willow Creek Falls Vineyard
- 25. Ocoee Whitewater Center
- Conclusion
Things To Do in Blue Ridge
1. Take a Ride on the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway
Starting at the historic 1905 depot in downtown Blue Ridge, you’ll embark on a four-hour, 26-mile round trip journey through the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. You’ll cross the Toccoa River and pass through scenic farmlands as you travel to the sister towns of McCaysville, Georgia, and Copperhill, Tennessee. The open-air rail cars offer an unbeatable view of the surrounding countryside.
2. Mercier Orchards
Since 1943, the Mercier family has been growing apples in the North Georgia mountains. The sprawling orchard now covers over 300 acres and offers not just apple picking, but also peaches, strawberries, and blueberries in their respective seasons.
Besides fruit picking, the Mercier Orchards features a bakery and deli that serve up a range of delectable eats, from fried pies to apple cider doughnuts.
3. Visit the Swan Drive-In
Operating since 1955, the Swan Drive-In retains its classic charm while providing modern movie-going experiences, featuring the latest blockbuster hits. They offer a full concession stand, so you can enjoy classic movie snacks or even a full dinner from the comfort of your car.
4. Explore Downtown Blue Ridge
The heart of Blue Ridge is a charming, walkable district filled with unique shops, galleries, and restaurants. Stop by the Blue Ridge Mountain Arts Association, which hosts art exhibits, events, and classes.
Indulge in some shopping at the multitudes of independent retailers offering everything from gourmet food and wine to books, clothing, and rustic home decor.
5. Experience the Toccoa River Swinging Bridge
A hidden gem in the Blue Ridge area, this bridge is a part of the Benton MacKaye Trail. At 270 feet long, it’s a unique and thrilling way to cross the Toccoa River.
Surrounded by lush greenery, it’s a perfect spot for photo ops or just soaking in the peaceful sounds of nature.
6. Hike the Benton MacKaye Trail
Stretching nearly 300 miles from Georgia to Tennessee, the trail offers numerous breathtaking vistas, waterfalls, and miles of serene forests. Named after the architect of the Appalachian Trail, it’s a less-traveled but equally rewarding hiking experience.
7. Blue Ridge Lake Recreation
Nestled among lush forests and rolling mountains, Blue Ridge Lake is a haven for outdoor lovers. Rent a pontoon from the Lake Blue Ridge Marina and spend a day out on the water, or explore one of the many surrounding trails. Anglers will find the lake stocked with bass, walleye, and bluegill.
8. Visit the Blue Ridge Community Theater
This small-town theater offers a robust season of plays, musicals, and special performances. It’s a cultural centerpiece in Blue Ridge, with a mission to enrich the community through the arts. Performances here range from contemporary dramas to classic musicals.
9. Try Local Brews at the Fannin Brewing Company
Located at the base of the Appalachian Mountains, this craft brewery is a beer lover’s dream. Enjoy the relaxed, friendly atmosphere as you sample a range of beers. Favorites include “Hive Kicker,” a wheat wine ale brewed with local honey, and the “Georgia Mountain Märzen,” a Bavarian lager.
10. Fly Fish in the Toccoa River
Known as the Trout Fishing Capital of Georgia, the Toccoa River is an angler’s paradise. Hire a guide from a local outfitter, like Toccoa River Outfitters, for the best chance to land a rainbow or brown trout.
11. Enjoy Southern Cuisine
Sample southern cuisine in Blue Ridge’s array of dining establishments. For breakfast, check out Serenity Garden Cafe’s biscuit sandwiches or sweet potato pancakes. For dinner, Chester Brunnenmeyer’s Bar & Grill offers upscale rustic dishes like shrimp and grits or smoked duck breast.
12. Blue Ridge Farmers Market
Visit the local farmers market for fresh produce, handmade crafts, and baked goods. Open from May through September, it’s a wonderful way to support the local economy and pick up unique souvenirs.
13. Blue Ridge Adventure Park
The adventure park offers an exciting and challenging outdoor activity for the whole family. With courses ranging from beginner to advanced, everyone can enjoy zip-lining and climbing obstacles.
14. Long Creek Falls
Just off the Appalachian Trail, this beautiful waterfall is a tranquil spot for a picnic or a cool dip on a hot day.
15. Blue Ridge Ghost Tour
Explore the darker side of Blue Ridge with this guided walking tour. Learn about the town’s haunted history and maybe even spot a ghost!
16. Ride the Zipline Canopy Tours of Blue Ridge
Experience the beauty of Blue Ridge from above as you zip through the trees. With over a mile of cable, the tour offers unparalleled views and heart-pounding excitement.
17. Explore the Aska Trails
This trail system offers a variety of hikes for all skill levels. Ranging from one to 17 miles, the trails feature waterfalls, mountain views, and dense forests.
18. Mountain View Orchards and Cider House Cafe
Enjoy spectacular mountain views as you pick apples in this 50-acre orchard. Don’t forget to try their homemade apple cider and fresh-baked goods.
19. Take a Scenic Drive on the Russell-Brasstown National Scenic Byway
This 40-mile loop offers breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, picnic areas, hiking trails, and waterfalls.
20. Cohutta Cove Mini Golf
Enjoy a round of mini golf at this beautifully landscaped course that’s fun for all ages.
21. Toccoa Riverside Restaurant
Dine by the riverside in this rustic eatery offering southern seafood and steak dishes. Their riverside seating offers a unique dining experience.
22. The Lilly Pad Village
Enjoy gem mining, mini-golf, and fishing in a serene mountain setting. It’s an excellent family-friendly spot with plenty of fun activities for kids.
23. Fall Branch Falls
This beautiful two-tier waterfall is accessible via a short hike, and it’s a perfect spot for picnics and photos.
24. Willow Creek Falls Vineyard
Taste local wines in a picturesque setting. The vineyard hosts regular events, including wine tastings and music nights.
25. Ocoee Whitewater Center
Home to the 1996 Olympic Canoe and Kayak Slalom competitions, the Center offers river trails, picnic areas, a visitor center, and world-class whitewater rafting.
Conclusion
From apple picking at the family-run Mercier Orchards to hiking through stunning trails, from enjoying a movie at a vintage drive-in theater to sampling local brews at the Fannin Brewing Company, Blue Ridge, Georgia, truly offers an array of experiences that cater to all tastes and interests.
No matter the season, a trip to this charming mountain town provides an escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life, connecting visitors with nature, culture, and the simple joy of discovering new experiences.
Pack your bags and get ready to create unforgettable memories in Blue Ridge, your ultimate mountain getaway.