Need a peaceful mountain escape or a history-filled small-town getaway? Head to Toccoa! Nestled at the base of the North Georgia mountains, Toccoa is known for its stunning waterfalls, military history, and walkable downtown. Whether you're chasing scenic hikes or WWII stories, Toccoa offers Southern charm with a backdrop of natural beauty.
Toccoa, GA Highlights:
- For Adventurous Travelers: Hike to Toccoa Falls – Just minutes from downtown, this breathtaking 186-foot waterfall is higher than Niagara.
- For History Buffs: Visit the Currahee Military Museum – Learn about the WWII paratroopers who trained at Camp Toccoa, featured in “Band of Brothers.”
- For Shoppers: Browse Main Street boutiques – Shop for antiques, handmade goods, and gifts in a cozy downtown full of Southern charm.
- For Couples: Enjoy a scenic drive through the North Georgia mountains – Cruise peaceful roads lined with forested hills, creeks, and historic sites.
- For Families: Have a picnic at Henderson Falls Park – Enjoy playgrounds, walking trails, and shaded picnic areas in this quiet community park.
Best Time to Visit Toccoa, GA
The best time to visit Toccoa is from April through October. Spring brings blooming wildflowers and waterfall hikes, while fall offers vibrant foliage in the nearby mountains. Summers are great for festivals, picnics, and exploring the outdoors.
How to Get to Toccoa, GA
- If you are traveling by car: Toccoa is located off GA-17, about 1.5 hours northeast of Atlanta and 1 hour from Greenville, SC.
- By Train: Amtrak’s Crescent Line stops at the historic Toccoa Depot, connecting to major cities including Atlanta, Washington D.C., and New York.
- By Air: The nearest major airport is Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), with car rentals available for the scenic drive north.
Where to Stay in Toccoa, GA
- Recommended for Families: Country Hearth Inn – Comfortable and convenient lodging with free breakfast and easy access to parks and waterfalls.
- For Nature Lovers: Fairfield By Marriott Inn & Suites Cornelia
Best Things to Do in Toccoa, GA
⮕ Marvel at One of the Tallest Free-Falling Waterfalls in the Southeast at Toccoa Falls
Located on the campus of the Toccoa Falls College, just a short distance from downtown, Toccoa Falls is one of the highest single-drop waterfalls in the US. In fact, Toccoa Falls is a very respectable 28feet higher than the far more famous Niagara Falls. If you are looking for a very pleasant way to spend a few hours you can make your way to the foot of the falls along an accessible 100m walkway from the college gift shop, where you pay your (very nominal) entrance fee. The walk to the falls follows the path of a pretty stream which meanders through the woodlands. If you visit in fall you will have the added bonus of seeing the falls framed by beautiful autumn foliage.
Toccoa Falls, 107 Kincaid Dr, Toccoa Falls, GA 30598
⮕ Sip Local Wines and Relax With Mountain Views at Currahee Vineyard
Formerly an apple orchard, Currahee Vineyard and Winery lies at the base of the beautiful Currahee Mountain. The vineyard was planted in 2009 and after an initial harvest a single red muscadine called Sweet Cheryl was produced. Since then Currahee Vineyards and Winery has grown from strength to strength and now produces a range of delicious Georgia wines. You are invited to come and learn all about the vineyard and taste a few of their delicious wines at the on-site tasting room, which is usually open from Thursday to Sunday. In August special daily tastings are offered and you can enjoy live music while you sip on Saturdays and Sundays.
Currahee Vineyard and Winery, 3301 West Currahee, Toccoa, GA 30577, Phone: 706-768-5383
What to do if you are traveling with kids:
⮕ Step Into 19th-Century Life and Explore the Traveler’s Rest Historic Site
Traveler’s Rest Historic Site is an historic lodge and tavern located about 6 miles east of Toccoa, close to the Tugaloo River. It was built around 1815 to provide overnight lodging to people traveling by stagecoach over the Appalachians. The original wood-framed inn boasted several rooms spread over two floors as well as a tavern, parlor and even a post office. Today visitors to the site can explore the historic buildings and the plantation grounds on a self-guided tour which will take you back in time to life in 19th century Georgia. The building still contains a wealth of original furnishings and artifacts for you to admire.
Traveler’s Rest Historic Site, 4339 Riverdale Rd, Toccoa, GA 30577, Stephens County, Phone: 706-886-2256
Activities and Attractions for Couples and Singles:
⮕ Honor a Strength Legend and Enjoy the Peaceful Grounds at Paul Anderson Park
Before you visit Paul Anderson Memorial Park you should take the time to read up about the man for whom the park was established. Paul Anderson was a local hero who made headlines for being the “strongest man in the world” when he lifted the heaviest weight ever in 1957. Paul also won a gold medal at the Olympic Games in 1956 in Australia. In addition to being a weightlifter, Paul was also a pillar of the Toccoa community and a strong Christian. Visitors to the park can admire the monument fountain, beautifully landscaped gardens and pathways or simply sit on one of the benches and soak up the peaceful atmosphere.
Paul Anderson Memorial Park, Tugaloo Street, Toccoa, GA 30577
⮕ Catch a Movie or Live Event at the Historic Ritz Theatre
The historic Ritz Theatre first opened its doors to the public in 1939. Back then it featured a single movie screen and seating for around 500 visitors. Over the years the Ritz has seen several reincarnations and in 1982 it was renamed the Schaefer Center for the Performing Arts. After extensive renovations in 2014 the historic old Ritz is once again vibrant and alive and welcoming locals and visitors to a full calendar of exciting entertainment, including popular movies, live music performances and stand-up comedy. The Ritz forms part of the Main Street Toccoa initiative established to ensure historic preservation of Georgia’s 8 Exceptional Main Streets.
Ritz Theatre, 139 E. Doyle Street, Toccoa, GA 30577, Phone: 706-282-3232
⮕ If You Love Browsing Hidden Gems, Find Your Next Great Read at Ashling Booksellers
A popular landmark in the heart of Downtown Toccoa, Ashling Booksellers is located on Doyle Street. From the very start, Ashling Booksellers has attracted locals to come and share books, ideas and music with like-minded others. Not only can you find the latest releases in hardcover, but you are also welcome to participate in their book exchange program, which makes reading so much more affordable. The store stocks everything from novels and non-fiction to biographies, magazines, comics and cookbooks. There is also a good variety of children’s books including young-adult fiction and non-fiction. You can enjoy a cup of tea or coffee and a snack while your browse.
Ashling Booksellers, 47 Doyle St, Toccoa, GA 30577, Phone: 706-886-2665
Where to Eat in Toccoa, GA
- Recommended for Families: Shirley’s Sole Food Café – Friendly, down-home Southern cooking with daily specials and comfort favorites.
- For Casual Dining: Java Station & Café – A local favorite for coffee, breakfast, sandwiches, and relaxed café vibes.
- For Date Night: BJ’s Restaurant – Longstanding Toccoa staple known for steaks, seafood, and classic American fare.
If you are interested in local events:
- For History Fans: Currahee Military Weekend (October) – Parades, museum tours, and veteran tributes celebrating the Band of Brothers legacy.
- For Art Lovers: Ida Cox Music Series (Summer Saturdays) – Free live music downtown honoring the legacy of blues legend Ida Cox.
- For Fall Fun: Harvest Festival (October) – Family-friendly street fair with crafts, food vendors, and seasonal celebrations.
Day Trip Itineraries Within 30 Minutes of Toccoa, GA:
- For Lake Lovers: Lake Hartwell (20–25 min) – Boat, fish, swim, or picnic at this expansive lake on the Georgia-South Carolina border.
- For Waterfall Hikers: Panther Creek Falls (25–30 min) – Hike through the Chattahoochee National Forest to this stunning multi-tiered cascade.
- For Scenic Drives: Tallulah Gorge State Park (30 min) – Hike the rim, cross the suspension bridge, or view one of the Southeast’s deepest canyons.
- For Wine Lovers: Currahee Vineyard & Winery (5–10 min) – Enjoy tastings, live music, and mountain views at this local vineyard.
- For Antique Hunters: Clarkesville (25–30 min) – Quaint mountain town with antique shops, cafés, and galleries.
Frequently Asked Questions:
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Where is Toccoa, Georgia located?
- Toccoa is a small city nestled in the foothills of the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains.
- It is located 1 hour and 40 minutes from Atlanta, approximately 94.1 miles via I-85 N, I-985 N, and US-23 N.
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What is special about Toccoa’s Main Street?
- The city is justifiably proud of its Main Street, which is filled with specialty shops, boutiques, restaurants, and galleries.
- It serves as a gathering place for both locals and visitors.
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What outdoor attractions can visitors explore in Toccoa?
- Visitors can spend quality outdoor time at Toccoa Falls, one of the highest waterfalls in the US.
- Other outdoor attractions include:
- Henderson Falls Park.
- Traveler’s Rest Historic Site.
- Currahee Military Museum.
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What cultural and entertainment options are available in Toccoa?
- The historic Ritz Theater invites visitors to attend a movie or a live show.
- The Currahee Vineyard and Winery offers wine tastings and live music on the weekends.
Plan Your Trip
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