Want to visit Bavaria without leaving the South? Discover alpine magic in Helen! Nestled in the North Georgia mountains, this Bavarian-style village charms with cobblestone streets, chalet-style architecture, outdoor adventures, and year-round festivities. It’s the perfect mountain escape with European flair.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Helen is in the fall and spring (September–November and April–June). Fall brings stunning foliage and Oktoberfest celebrations, while spring offers pleasant weather for hiking, tubing, and exploring.
How to Get There
- By Car: Helen is about 90 minutes north of Atlanta via GA-400 and Highway 75. Scenic mountain roads make the drive part of the adventure.
- By Plane: Fly into Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), then rent a car for the drive north.
- By Bus/Tour: Some Atlanta-area tour companies offer day trips and seasonal transportation to Helen.
Where to Stay
- Valhalla Resort Hotel – Upscale mountain retreat with luxury rooms, spa services, and sweeping views.
- Heidi Motel – Iconic windmill-style lodging just steps from downtown shops and dining.
- Hofbrau Riverfront Hotel – Budget-friendly option with a great location along the Chattahoochee River.
Top Attractions
1. Hike, Paddle, and Breathe Deep in Unicoi State Park
Location: Near Helen, North Georgia Mountains
Recommended For: Outdoor enthusiasts, families, hikers, mountain bikers, and nature lovers.
What I Love: ♥ “A scenic, activity-packed mountain getaway offering both outdoor thrills and cozy accommodations.”
- Explore a range of hiking and biking trails, from the easy lake loop to the challenging Anna Ruby Falls trek.
- Ride the 7.5-mile singletrack bike trail or follow the 3-mile trail to downtown Helen.
- Paddle or swim in the peaceful lake with opportunities for canoeing and refreshing swims.
- Stay overnight in modern campgrounds, fully equipped cottages, or a cozy mountain lodge with an on-site restaurant.
- Enjoy the park’s proximity to Helen, a charming Bavarian-themed mountain town.
Cost: Daily park admission fee; lodging and activity costs vary.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall offers ideal weather for outdoor activities; visit in autumn for spectacular fall foliage.
Local tips: Book accommodations in advance during peak seasons. For a memorable hike, continue on to Anna Ruby Falls, just a short trek from the park.
How to Get to Unicoi State Park: Located on GA-356, just northeast of Helen. Easily accessible by car via GA-75 from Cleveland or GA-17 from Clarkesville.
Address: 1788 GA-356, Helen, GA 30545, Phone: 706-878-2201
2. Go With the Flow Along the Scenic Chattahoochee River
Location: Near Helen, North Georgia Mountains
Recommended For: Anglers, hikers, nature lovers, and campers looking for a peaceful mountain escape.
What I Love: ♥ “A hidden gem for trout fishing and hiking, surrounded by mountain serenity.”
- Fish in the headwaters of the Chattahoochee River, one of North Georgia’s top trout streams.
- Camp in a tranquil, forested campground nestled at 2,220 feet elevation for cool, refreshing nights.
- Hike to nearby Anna Ruby Falls or along the Horse Trough Falls Interpretive Trail.
- Picnic riverside surrounded by the sounds of nature and scenic mountain views.
- Access the iconic Appalachian Trail from nearby trailheads for extended hiking adventures.
Cost: Small day-use fee; campground fees vary by site.
Best time to visit: Late spring through fall is ideal for camping, hiking, and fishing. Summer offers lush greenery, while autumn brings colorful foliage.
Local tips: Arrive early on weekends for the best campsites. Don’t forget your trout fishing license if you plan to fish.
How to Get to the Upper Chattahoochee River Recreation Area: From Helen, take GA-75 North, then follow signs to Forest Service Road 44. High-clearance vehicles recommended due to gravel roads.
Address: F. S. Rd. #44, Helen, GA 30545, Phone: 706-754-6221
3. Raise a Glass to Local Flavor at Habersham Vineyards & Winery
Location: Just south of Alpine Helen in North Georgia Wine Country
Recommended For: Wine lovers, couples, and visitors seeking a relaxed tasting experience near Helen.
What I Love: ♥ “Award-winning Georgia wines in a charming mountain setting with gourmet treats to match.”
- Taste five hand-selected Georgia-made wines during a relaxed daily wine tasting session.
- Explore one of the oldest and largest wineries in Georgia, established in 1983.
- Shop the tasting room gift shop for gourmet foods, wine accessories, and perfect picnic pairings.
- Enjoy a convenient stop just half a mile south of downtown Alpine Helen.
- Relax with friends in the scenic North Georgia setting and sip on wines crafted from local grapes.
Cost: Small fee for wine tastings; purchases optional.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall offers the best weather and beautiful vineyard scenery. Weekdays are quieter for tastings.
Local tips: Ask staff for pairing suggestions for your wine purchases. Pick up picnic-ready items to enjoy nearby in Helen or at Unicoi State Park.
How to Get to Habersham Vineyards & Winery: From downtown Helen, head south on Main Street for approximately 0.5 miles. The winery is clearly marked and has ample parking.
Address: 7025 S Main St, Helen, GA 30545, Phone: 706-878-9463
4. Zip and Splash with Cool River Adventures
Location: Helen, Georgia – with three outposts including Headwaters, Chattahoochee, and Mainstreet Booth
Recommended For: Families, thrill-seekers, tubing fans, and adventure-loving travelers in the Helen area.
What I Love: ♥ “Zip through treetops or float the river—Cool River Adventures delivers outdoor fun for everyone.”
- Explore the Headwaters Outpost for ziplining, tree climbing, and exciting aerial adventures.
- Float down the Chattahoochee River in a tube for a scenic and relaxing ride.
- Choose from three outposts—Mainstreet Booth, Headwaters, or Chattahoochee—each offering a unique experience.
- Enjoy well-managed, family-friendly facilities perfect for summer outings or group adventures.
- Reconnect with nature in a safe, active, and entertaining environment in the heart of the North Georgia mountains.
Cost: Pricing varies by activity; tubing and aerial courses are separately priced. Check their website for package options.
Best time to visit: Late spring through early fall offers the warmest, driest weather for water and aerial activities. Arrive early on weekends to beat the crowds.
Local tips: Wear secure footwear for ziplining and tree adventures. Don’t forget water shoes and sunscreen for tubing. Bring a waterproof bag for valuables.
How to Get to Cool River Adventures: Located on Edelweiss Strasse in Helen. Follow signs from Main Street to each outpost—ample parking available.
Address: 590 Edelweiss Strasse, Helen, GA 30545, Phone: 706-878-2665
5. Feel the Rush on the Georgia Mountain Coaster
Location: Right on South Main Street in downtown Helen, Georgia
Recommended For: Families, thrill-seekers, teens, and couples looking for fast fun with scenic views.
What I Love: ♥ “Twist, turn, and zoom through the alpine forest on Georgia’s first alpine coaster!”
- Ride the Georgia Mountain Coaster, reaching speeds of over 28 mph through forested hills.
- Control your speed with onboard brake levers—perfect for first-time riders and younger adventurers.
- Experience the thrill of the state’s first alpine coaster, open to riders ages 3 and up.
- Enjoy scenic mountain views as you twist and turn along a unique coaster track built into the natural terrain.
- Capture the moment with photo ops before or after your ride at this popular Helen attraction.
Cost: Rides are priced per person. Discounted rates may be available for additional rides or children. See website for full pricing.
Best time to visit: Morning and late afternoon for shorter wait times. Spring through fall is ideal for great weather and mountain views.
Local tips: Secure loose items before riding. Don’t skip the safety briefing—knowing how to use the brakes makes the ride more enjoyable.
How to Get to the Georgia Mountain Coaster: Located at the edge of downtown Helen. Easily walkable from most local attractions and hotels. Look for the coaster signage on South Main Street.
Address: 8409 S Main Street, Helen, GA 30545, Phone: 706-878-1347
Where to Eat
6. Bite Into Old-World Flavor at Hofer’s of Helen
Location: In the heart of downtown Helen, Georgia
Recommended For: Food lovers, couples, families, and anyone craving a taste of Europe in North Georgia.
What I Love: ♥ “From Alpine French Toast to artisan breads, Hofer’s brings Old World flavor to Helen!”
- Start your day with a hearty European breakfast—served daily—with specialties like Belgian Waffles and Alpine French Toast.
- Enjoy a relaxed lunch in the cozy, Bavarian-style dining room, featuring sandwiches, salads, and hot dishes.
- Treat yourself to award-winning baked goods made with Old World techniques in the on-site bakery.
- Take home fresh-baked breads, pastries, and desserts that make perfect gifts or road trip snacks.
- Sip on European-style coffees and specialty drinks while relaxing in this charming alpine café setting.
Cost: Menu prices are moderate and vary by dish. Bakery items are sold à la carte and boxed for takeaway.
Best time to visit: Early morning or mid-afternoon for shorter waits. Visit during fall for scenic leaf-peeping and festive ambiance.
Local tips: Arrive early for breakfast on weekends. Don’t miss the apple strudel or pretzel rolls—they sell out quickly!
How to Get to Hofer’s of Helen: Walkable from anywhere in downtown Helen. Just look for the charming building with the traditional alpine roof on North Main Street.
Address: 8758 N Main St, Helen, GA 30545, Phone: 706-878-8200
7. Dine at The Heidelberg German Restaurant
Location: On the corner of Main Street in downtown Helen, Georgia
Recommended For: Foodies, beer lovers, music fans, couples, and groups looking for authentic German cuisine and entertainment.
What I Love: ♥ “A three-story taste of Germany in the heart of Alpine Helen—schnitzel, steins, and song!”
- Dine upstairs in the cozy main dining room and enjoy a full menu of German classics from schnitzel to Sauerbraten.
- Unwind downstairs in the German-style pub with your favorite Bavarian beer or local brew.
- Feast on hearty sausage platters, sandwiches, and traditional dishes like Gulasch, Kasseler Rippchen, and Hühnerbrust.
- Listen to live German and folk music in the lively Music Hall, where entertainment fills the top floor on weekends and holidays.
- Soak in the authentic alpine ambiance of one of Helen’s most iconic original restaurants, first opened in 1975.
Cost: Entrees typically range from $15–$30. Drinks and appetizers are affordably priced for individuals or groups.
Best time to visit: Afternoons or evenings, especially during Oktoberfest or holiday weekends when live music is featured.
Local tips: Get there early for upstairs dining—it fills quickly! Ask about seasonal beers and daily specials from the chef.
How to Get to The Heidelberg: Located on the corner of North Main Street, just a short walk from Helen’s downtown shops and hotels.
Address: 8660 N Main St, Helen, GA 30545, Phone: 706-878-0061
Where to Take the Kids on a Rainy Day
8. Power Up at the Helen Fun Factory
Location: Tucked away on a quiet street just off the main drag in downtown Helen, Georgia
Recommended For: Families, groups, birthday parties, and anyone looking for indoor fun and games.
What I Love: ♥ “An all-in-one indoor playground where laser tag battles and go-kart races keep the adrenaline high!”
- Challenge friends and family to a game of Alpine Extreme Laser Tag in a themed battle arena.
- Race around the thrilling Go-Kart Track designed for speed and excitement.
- Play in the huge arcade featuring 80+ games and a redemption booth stocked with cool prizes.
- Bounce your energy away in the massive 10,000-square-foot Bounce Zone, perfect for younger children.
- Book your next event—group rates are available for parties of ten or more, ideal for birthdays and school trips.
Cost: Prices vary by activity, but packages and group rates make it affordable for families and parties.
Best time to visit: Afternoons and early evenings, especially during rainy days or when you're looking for indoor excitement.
Local tips: Wear comfortable clothes for running, jumping, and driving. Ask about multi-activity passes for extra savings.
How to Get to Alpine Fun Factory: Head just a few blocks off Main Street to Escowee Drive, and look for the bright signage welcoming you to this family-fun hub.
Address: 115 Escowee Drive, Helen, GA 30545, Phone: 706-878-8404
Plan Your Trip