Need a peaceful mountain escape in North Georgia? Head to Clayton! Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Clayton offers scenic hiking, waterfalls, farm-to-table cuisine, and small-town charm. Whether you're sipping local wine, exploring state parks, or just relaxing in nature, Clayton is a laid-back gem for outdoor lovers and weekend wanderers alike.
Clayton, GA Highlights:
- For Adventurous Travelers: Hike Tallulah Gorge State Park – Trek dramatic canyon trails, cross the suspension bridge, or go rock climbing and whitewater kayaking.
- For History Buffs: Visit the Foxfire Museum – Step back in time through Appalachian cabins and exhibits on traditional mountain life.
- For Shoppers: Explore Downtown Clayton – Discover local boutiques, art galleries, and antique shops along charming Main Street.
- For Couples: Sip wine at local vineyards – Relax at Tiger Mountain Vineyards or 12 Spies Vineyards with scenic views and regional varietals.
- For Families: Picnic and play at Black Rock Mountain State Park – Georgia’s highest state park offers kid-friendly trails, sweeping vistas, and cool summer temps.
When I like to visit Clayton, GA
The best time to visit Clayton is from April through October. Spring and fall bring colorful blooms and foliage, while summer is perfect for hiking, fishing, and enjoying the cool mountain air. Fall is especially popular for leaf-peeping and seasonal festivals.
Tips for getting to Clayton, GA
- If you are traveling by car: Clayton is located along U.S. Route 441, about 2 hours northeast of Atlanta and 1.5 hours from Asheville, NC.
- By Plane: Fly into Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, then drive north to Clayton.
- By Bus: While there’s no direct bus or train service to Clayton, regional shuttles or rental cars are available from Atlanta and nearby towns.
Where I like to stay in Clayton, GA
- Beechwood Inn – A historic bed and breakfast offering Southern hospitality, wine tastings, and sweeping mountain views.
- Kingwood Resort – A scenic mountain golf resort with spa services, lodging, and dining just minutes from downtown.
- White Birch Inn – A cozy boutique inn with stylish rooms and walkable access to Clayton’s shops and restaurants.
Best Things to Do in Clayton, GA
1. Moonrise Distillery
Founded in 2012, the Moonrise Distillery is situated at the foothills of Georgia’s Appalachian Mountains, just as visitors enter Clayton. The distillery produces handcrafted artisan Georgia Rye Whiskey and Bourbon made using traditional equipment and methods, deep-well mountain spring water, and locally sourced grains. Visitors can stop by the Moonrise Distillery for a tour lasting around forty-five minutes, which is led by the head distiller and includes samples of the award-winning product line. Tours start at noon with the last one taking place at 4:00pm. The distillery also hosts Sunday Funday from noon until 5:00pm.
31 Webb Rd, Clayton, GA 30525, Phone: 844-994-4759
2. Chattahoochee National Forest
The Chattahoochee National Forest in Georgia covers eighteen counties today and has three different ranger districts in the northern part of the state: Conasauga Ranger District, Chattooga River Ranger District, and the Blue Ridge Ranger District. The forest includes more than 2,200 miles of streams and rivers, including trout streams, more than 450 miles of trails for hiking and other outdoor recreation, and around 1,600 miles of “roads.” Natural attractions in the Chattahoochee National Forest include the Anna Ruby Falls, Brasstown Bald, and the start of the Appalachian Trail, which extends across more than 2,000 miles of wilderness.
3. Main Street Gallery
The Main Street Gallery, as the name suggests, is located on Main Street in Clayton, Georgia, housed within a renovated historic building. The art gallery offers plenty for visitors to see, consisting of three floors full of art exhibits with an emphasis on folk art or self-taught artwork. The gallery has maintained a relationship with unique folk artists for many years. While some of these featured artists are from the local area, the majority are residents of the Southeast, with a handful from other parts of the United States. The Main Street Gallery also has unique furniture, pottery, and contemporary art.
51 N Main St, Clayton, GA 30525, Phone: 706-782-2440
4. Beechwood Inn
The Beechwood Inn has been named one of the South’s “Most Charming Inns” by Southern Living Magazine, one of the top thirteen “East Coast Inns with Excellent Wines” by Wine Spectator, and one of the top five destinations “for your next wine and food-focused escape” by Wine Enthusiast Magazine. The Beechwood Inn restaurant has also been recognized as one of Georgia’s “Top 10 Farm-to-Table Restaurants,” offering fresh farm-to-table dishes using primarily produce grown by the inn itself. Breakfast features a number of local products and fine dining is available on Saturdays with the Chef’s Tasting Dinners paired with fine wine.
220 Beechwood Dr, Clayton, GA 30525, Phone: 706-782-5485
Where I Like to Eat in Clayton, GA
- Fortify Kitchen and Bar – Locally loved farm-to-table spot with upscale Southern cuisine and craft cocktails.
- The Clayton Café – Classic Southern diner fare with friendly service and hearty breakfasts.
- Universal Joint – Casual outdoor eatery with burgers, beer, and mountain town vibes right downtown.
My favorite local events:
- Celebrate Clayton Art Festival (April) – Local and regional artists, live music, and family fun in downtown Clayton.
- Rabun County Music Festival (Summer) – Enjoy classical, jazz, and bluegrass performances under the stars.
- Harvest Fest (October) – Seasonal crafts, food vendors, and fall activities in a festive mountain setting.
My favorite day trips within 30 Minutes of Clayton, Georgia:
- Dillard (10 min) – Visit antique stores, Dillard House restaurant, and explore peaceful farm country.
- Lake Burton (20–25 min) – Go boating, paddleboarding, or enjoy lakeside dining with mountain views.
- Sky Valley (25–30 min) – Georgia’s highest city with golf, hiking, and waterfall views.
- Highlands, NC (30 min) – Chic mountain town known for its boutiques, waterfalls, and upscale restaurants.
- Minnehaha Falls (20 min) – Short, family-friendly hike to a gorgeous tiered waterfall near Lake Rabun.
- Chattooga River (20–30 min) – Whitewater rafting, fly fishing, and scenic trails along a Wild & Scenic river.
Plan Your Trip