Need a peaceful mountain town with family fun and scenic beauty? Head to Cleveland! Located in the foothills of the North Georgia Mountains, Cleveland blends small-town charm with big outdoor adventure. Whether you’re hiking trails, exploring quirky roadside attractions, or sipping wine, Cleveland is your gateway to the mountains.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Cleveland is during the spring and fall (April–June and September–November), when the weather is mild and the surrounding mountains burst with wildflowers or fall foliage. Summer is great for outdoor recreation too.
How to Get There
- If you are traveling by car: Cleveland is located along US-129, about 1.5 hours northeast of Atlanta and 20 minutes from Helen.
- By Air: Fly into Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), then rent a car to reach Cleveland.
- By Bus/Train: Public transportation options are limited—driving is the best option.
Where to Stay
- Mtn Laurel Creek Inn & Spa – Romantic B&B for adults with spa services and vineyard views.
- Country Hideaway at Mountain Lakes – Lakeside resort with cabin rentals and recreational amenities.
- The Smith House (nearby in Dahlonega) – Historic inn with Southern charm and a popular dining room.
Top Attractions
⮕ Meet Cabbage Patch Kids at the Whimsical BabyLand General Hospital
In 1982, Xavier Roberts, a Cleveland native, created the Cabbage Patch Kids, which quickly became a worldwide phenomenon. Visitors to Cleveland, Georgia today can visit the BabyLand General Hospital and immerse themselves in the unique world of Cabbage Patch dolls.
The cabbage patch producing the newest arrivals is the hospital’s main attraction. “Nurses” announce the arrivals and request names for the new baby dolls from the guests. Visitors can take a tour of the BabyLand General Hospital and adopt Cabbage Patch dolls at the site. While admission to the facility is free, there is a fee to adopt the dolls.
BabyLand General Hospital, 300 NOK Dr, Cleveland, GA 30528, Phone: 706-865-2171
⮕ Sip Wines with a View at The Cottage Vineyard and Winery
The Cottage Vineyard and Winery is a nearly 30-acre vineyard started by Sandra and Jim after a more than 20-year appreciation of wine and creating their own home vineyard in North Georgia. The tasting room of the Cottage Vineyard and Winery opened in Cleveland, Georgia in 2013 and visitors today can sample a variety of good wines, take in stunning views of the mountains, and learn about what makes the winery and vineyard special from the dedicated team. All of the wines are made in the estate’s cellar with the red and white wines ranging from sweet to dry.
Cottage Vineyard and Winery, 5050 US-129, Cleveland, GA 30528, Phone: 706-865-0053
Must-see if you are a first-time visitor:
- Cleveland Historic Courthouse Museum – Learn about local history in a classic Southern courthouse.
- Yonah Mountain Trail – Hike to panoramic views from the top of this iconic local peak.
- North Georgia Zoo – Feed exotic animals and take wildlife encounters to the next level.
- CeNita Vineyards – Sip local wines while enjoying mountain views and a relaxing patio setting.
Where to Eat
- Glenda’s – Classic Southern diner fare with fried chicken, catfish, and homemade pies.
- Bigg Daddy’s Restaurant & Tavern – Laid-back spot with burgers, BBQ, and live music on weekends.
- Creekside Deli – Cozy breakfast and lunch café with hearty sandwiches and mountain charm.
If you are interested in local events:
- Gold Rush Days (October) – Head to nearby Dahlonega for crafts, food, and historic celebrations.
- Georgia Mountain Fall Festival (October) – Held in nearby Hiawassee, featuring live music and arts & crafts.
- Cleveland Christmas Parade (December) – Celebrate the season with small-town holiday spirit and festive floats.
If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes of Cleveland, Georgia:
- Helen (20 min) – Explore a Bavarian-style village with river tubing, beer gardens, and shops.
- Dahlonega (30 min) – Visit wineries, gold rush history sites, and a charming mountain town square.
- Unicoi State Park (25 min) – Enjoy hiking, paddleboarding, and waterfalls in a beautiful state park setting.
- Sautee Nacoochee (15 min) – Tour local art galleries and see the historic Indian mound.
- Anna Ruby Falls (30 min) – Hike to twin waterfalls nestled in the Chattahoochee National Forest.
FAQ:
- Q: What makes Cleveland, Georgia unique?
- A: A rural, relatively quiet town that was established in 1857, Cleveland, Georgia is a place where visitors can see covered bridges, find babies born in a cabbage patch, and sample local wines and craft beers among other activities.
- Q: What can visitors explore in Cleveland, Georgia?
- A: The town square features buildings dating back to the 1800's, while the historic Merchant’s Square offers an eclectic shopping experience for locals and tourists alike.
- Q: What wine-related attractions are in Cleveland, Georgia?
- A: The Unicoi Wine Trail can also be found in the Cleveland area, providing visitors with a chance to experience the unique wines of White County.
At a Glance:
Best Time to Visit
Places to Stay
Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Mild temperatures and blooming wildflowers.
Country Hideaway at Mountain Lakes – A scenic retreat with lake views.
Visit BabyLand General Hospital – See where Cabbage Patch Kids are "born" at this unique attraction.
Summer (June-August) – Warm and perfect for mountain adventures.
Mistletoe Cabin Rentals – A charming cabin stay near outdoor attractions.
Explore Yonah Mountain – Hike to the summit for stunning panoramic views.
Fall (September-November) – Crisp air, colorful foliage, and local festivals.
Cedar Creek Cabin Rentals – A cozy escape in the North Georgia mountains.
Visit the Georgia Mountain Fall Festival – Enjoy live music, arts and crafts, and delicious Southern food.
Winter (December-February) – Cool temperatures with a peaceful mountain atmosphere.
Smithgall Woods State Park Cabins – A secluded stay with access to nature trails.
Explore nearby Alpine Helen – Experience a Bavarian-style village with holiday charm.
Map:
Plan Your Trip
Table of Contents:
- 1. Meet Cabbage Patch Kids at the Whimsical BabyLand General Hospital
- 2. Sip Wines with a View at The Cottage Vineyard and Winery