29 Best & Most Delightful Things to Do in Helen (Georgia)

With a population of around 3000, the small village of Helen was designed to resemble a German Alpine resort.

You’ll think you’ve been transported to the cobblestone streets of Germany’s famous Bamberg as colorful shops dot the landscape.

Even the heavenly aroma of genuine German food takes to the breeze in this bustling alpine village.

There are numerous little shops to browse and interact in.

Aside from the fantastic cuisines in Helen, you can also have a beer to go with the amazing cuisine.

Tube down the river that runs through the center of the town or simply sit at one of the riverfront eateries.

There are also many nearby waterfalls in the area to visit.

If you schedule your visit right, you can even participate in Oktoberfest; one of the longest-running events in the country.

Things to do in Helen Georgia

1. Smithgall Woods State Park

Smithgall Woods State Park is a State park near Helen, Georgia, with thousands of acres of nature preserve and a trout stream in addition to hiking trails.

Nature enthusiasts can escape the modern city’s hustles and bustles and enjoy some tranquility amidst nature.

In fact, regardless of your interests, this 5,664-acre park complex offers a wide variety of chances for enjoyment and adventure.

Want to exercise and get some fresh air? The park has around 23 miles of roads and trails with varying degrees of difficulty, providing plenty of opportunities for exploring nature while hiking and bicycling.

However, the big draw at the park is trout fishing in a Duke’s Creek.

Smithgall Woods State Park is ideal for casting your line if you love fishing.

Although the fishing is all catch and release, you will still have a good time.

If you are not a fan of fishing, perhaps you might find interest in hunting your own game.

You’ll have the chance to track and hunt various games, including deer, bears, and even small furbearers.

They have a really cool section in the gift shop with information on different animals, so if you need something, you can go there.

Address: 61 Tsalaki Trail, Helen, GA 30545, United States

2. Hardman Farm

If you are looking for a peaceful stroll through acres of farmland and a beautiful view of Helen, then Hardman Farm is a great place to go.

Besides that, it’s a great place to have a peaceful stroll. It is also a wonderful opportunity to learn about the area’s agricultural history.

Hardman Farm is the Smithgall Woods’ satellite site. In fact, as a historic site, the 162-acre farm has maintained its rural character.

You will also find a well-known Nacoochee Indian Mound in the region.

Additionally, tours will take you inside the historic house.

The house is a truly beautiful and captivating house built by Captain Nicholas, who had some pretty creative ways to heat and cool the home without electricity.

The house had three owners, and the third was a doctor who added a dairy farm, which was also pretty incredible for that period.

In addition to the tour, you will also be instructed on how milk is produced in the barn that once housed the Naccochee Dairy.

Hardman Farm is open for business every day of the week, from 10 am to 4 pm.

Address: 143 GA-17, Sautee Nacoochee, GA 30571, United States

3. Habersham Winery

Open every day for wine tastings, Habersham Winery is one of Georgia’s oldest and biggest vineyards.

The family-run business offers wine tastings and has a store with gourmet cuisine from around the world.

The tasting area has a gift shop with gourmet meals and wine specialty goods from around the world, in addition to a wide range of wines that are cultivated in Georgia.

In short, the location is lovely both inside and out, with lots of decorations and wine accessories.

You can taste your wines inside or on the patio that is covered.

Wine slushies come in two flavors all year long.

Additionally, the Habersham Winery hosts enjoyable occasions like a yearly Winefest and live music on the weekends from March through October.

Address: 7025 S Main St, Helen, GA 30545, United States

4. Nacoochee Adventures

Helen is home to many outdoor adventures, and Nacoochee Adventures is a great place to catch some fun.

Located in Nacoochee Village, Nacoochee Adventures provide adrenaline-shooting outdoor adventures.

The 600-acre property is equipped with a winery, an antique mall, a grist mill, zip lines, and treehouse camping.

You can go for the thriller Giant Swing, which is not your typical playground swing! This one gently lifts daring riders 50 feet in the air before lowering them for an incredible trip over the stunning scenery.

There’s also the Yonah Quest Challenge Course, a three-level physical challenge available to those seeking a physical challenge.

Additionally, zipline packages include the Moonshine Canopy Tour and Big Zip Intimidator, among others.

5. Nacoochee Village Antique Mall

Enjoy searching for antiques? Well, here’s a place full of treasure in Helen.

There are three stories of almost anything you can think of at this antique store.

Located in the three stories Martin House, Nacoochee antique mall is home to over 40 vendors.

With several dealers available here, each has its own preferences and selection of antiques.

From dolls to medical supplies, Christmas to World War II, everything is available there.

So, give yourself plenty of time to explore the three floors and over 7000 square feet of the 1876 Martin House.

Visit Nacoochee Village Antiques to witness what an adventure it is, with over 40 dealers occupying 7,000 square feet.

The mall is open year-round, seven days a week!

Address: 7091 S Main St, Helen, GA 30545, United States

6. King Ludwig’s Biergarten

If you want to sit outside and listen to live music while enjoying a German beer or adult beverage, then a stop here will be worth it.

In fact, enjoying a beer and various forms of entertainment at King Ludwig’s Biergarten is among the most entertaining things to do in Helen.

Enjoy a beer or some of the food, such as the excellent wurst sandwiches available, while sitting at a picnic-style table or bench and listening to great music.

The beer is served in unique quantities and is tasty.

Along with the beer, they offer delicious cuisine like pretzels.

In addition to snacks, King Ludwig’s Biergarten offers corn hole activities and live music.

King Ludwig’s Biergarten opening time differs on different days, so you check their website to confirm.

Address: 8660 N Main St, Helen, GA 30545, United States

7. Anna Ruby Falls, Helen

With spectacular views and two waterfalls, this park is a great place to visit for those who appreciate the outdoors and nature.

Two creeks, York and Curtis Creek, provide the water falling over the drop-offs.

The York Creek falls are smaller but no less impressive than the Curtis Creek falls, which plunge 153 feet.

Although the falls are magnificent in and of themselves, the nearby trees and creek are also lovely.

For those with more energy, a 5-mile round-trip journey from Unicoi State Park will get you to the falls.

A deck outside also provides a view of the stream, picnic tables, and barbecue grills.

There is even a gift shop with regional arts and crafts where you can get souvenirs before leaving.

The tourist center, gift store, and leisure area are open every day, with a few exceptions during certain holidays.

Address: 3455 Anna Ruby Falls Rd, Helen, GA 30545-2333

8. Unicoi State Park

One of the most visited parks in Georgia is the Unicoi State Park.

The amazing natural beauty of the park and Unicoi State Park’s proximity to the alpine community of Helen are just a few things that make it so popular.

From hiking to zip lining to several outdoor activities can be done here.

Other activities include mountain biking, swimming, fishing, boating (non-motorized), picnicking, and more.

If you wish to stay the night? Well, you have nothing to worry about, as there are several lodging options here, including camping, cabins, and lodges.

The Park also has unmatched hiking paths leading to Anna Ruby Falls and Helen.

Address: 1788 GA-356, Helen, GA 30545, United States

Hungry? Check out some of the best restaurants in Helen to enjoy the best cuisines! 

9. Alpine Mini Golf

Not a fan of arduous outdoor activities? Then, the alpine Mini golf is a perfect place for you.

This 18-hole course is a great family entertainment spot. It is not just nicely kept, but it also has a lovely landscape featuring wonderful flower gardens.

The beautifully landscaped course and garden are enchantingly illuminated at night by sparkling fairy lights strung between its trees.

For those who need a rest, park benches have been put in strategic locations too.

Before continuing your journey, you can pause for a cool ice cream while playing an exciting round of mini-golf. You should try this if you enjoy playing mini-golf.

Address: 7914 S Main St, Helen, GA 30545, United States

10. Downtown Helen

No trip to Helen is complete without strolling through its charming and evocative downtown.

Even though its annual Oktoberfest draws crowds of tourists in the fall, there is more to downtown Helen.

Firstly, getting there feels as though you’ve stepped into a tiny mountain village with classic German eateries and bakeries.

Downtown Helena is located among the Chattahoochee River’s meandering course and is home to countless charming B&Bs and cozy cafes alongside lively taverns.

Of course, you want to attend the famed Oktoberfest.

The fest is one of the most incredible times of year to visit, as riotous celebrations take over the entire town. You can enjoy some hearty German food in addition to the region’s inviting atmosphere and aesthetic.

Genuine German music, food, and numerous people sporting lederhosen are all present during the celebrations.

Address: Helen, GA, United States

St Simons Island and Buckhead is another city in Georgia you will love to visit!

11. Oktoberfest, Helen

Oktoberfest period is one of the best times to be in Helen.

For more than 50 years, Alpine Helen has celebrated Oktoberfest with several weeks of traditional dancing, fare, and beer from September through October.

Food, beverages, live music, games, a craft and trade market, an antique vehicle show, and even some rough stock rodeo are all part of Oktoberfest.

Additionally, the event is the longest-running in the country and is held in the city’s riverbank Festhalle.

Everything that makes an incredible Oktoberfest, including cuisine, beer, music, and dancing, is present here.

There is never a wrong time to attend this event because it’s great whenever you show up.

Address: 1074 Edelweiss Strasse, Helen, GA 30545, United States

12. Fred’s Famous Peanuts, Helen

Fred’s famous peanuts is a quaint old-fashioned stand that sells a variety of peanuts, snacks, and jams.

Operating for more than three decades, Fred’s Famous Peanuts opened its doors in is owned by Fred and Dianne Jenkins.

For a start, they provide free samples if you want.

Aside from free samples and peanuts, there are other things you can do here, including taking pictures with the life-size soft sculptures.

The sculptures are of elderly people who are frequently seated by the peanut hut.

For the less daring nut seeker, there are spicy Cajun and the typical nut in a shell.

Other options include, you guessed it, peanut butter, as well as different sauces, garnishes, and dips.

Drinks are offered, including the must-try peach cider.

Address: 17 Clayton Rd, Helen, GA 30545, United States

13. Georgia Mountain Coaster

Come experience the rush of a ride through the forests and down a mountain with the Georgia Mountain coaster.

The first Alpine Coaster in Georgia is the Georgia Mountain Coaster.

The roller coaster travels through a stunning mountain forest and offers views of ruins that date back 100 years.

The coaters are individual vehicles equipped with hand brakes for security.

You have complete control over your speed as you dash down the mountain.

You can ride down the mountain at your own pace, which is also quite swift, or you can let it go at full speed.

There will also be more time to enjoy the scenic views of Helen’s lovely woods because the ride to the mountain’s summit is slower.

Get ready to push yourself and enjoy the mountain rush!

Address: 8409 S Main St, Helen, GA 30545, United States

14. Raven Cliff Falls, Helen

One of Georgia’s most distinctive waterfalls is Raven Cliff Falls.

You can hike your way to the stunning waterfall and enjoy the 2.5 miles of wildflower- and waterfall-filled beauty.

Many waterfalls along the route make this a fantastic place for hiking.

If you make it to the top, the hike is a 5-mile round trip.

The 5-mile trek to Raven Cliff Falls is a great introductory trip and an easy way to get into hiking.

For those with more skill, a narrow path around a rock jumble and up a ladder made of tree roots leads to the summit of the cliff, where Raven Cliff Falls is located.

The best part? You don’t even have to reach the summit to enjoy it.

Go early because it can get so crowded during the day.

Address: 3000 Richard B Russell Scenic Hwy, Helen, GA 30545, United States

15. Hofer’s of Helen

If you want good German food or just a great breakfast, Hofers is a must-visit restaurant.

Located in downtown Helen, the restaurant is one of the best places to have a delicious breakfast in Helen.

Additionally, with all the furniture coming from Germany, this restaurant has a powerful German feel.

There is a terrific bakery with lots of mouthwatering pastries if you just want a fast treat.

You can shop at the bakery deli, and store that offers packaged German foods, spices, confections, and sausages.

There’s even a gift vault in the back where you can find an array of German or Bavarian-themed steins, salt, pepper shaker sets, shot glasses, etc.

It is open from 8 am to 5 pm Monday through Thursday and from 8 am to 6 pm Friday through Sunday.

Go early, or you will stand in line for quite a while until a table frees up, but even with the wait, it is worth it.

Address: 8758 N Main St, Helen, GA 30545, United States

16. Chattahoochee Cheese Market, Helen

The Chattahoochee Cheese Market offers a huge selection and an incredibly helpful service.

In fact, this little store is a fantastic place to pick up a sandwich and some hot coffee.

They sell delicious sandwiches, including the Italian Stallion sub and the Mamacita panini.

You can also visit this location for breakfast, where you can get wonderful dishes like “Waffle Stackers” and egg sandwiches.

Both the food and the experience at the Chattahoochee Cheese Market are delectable.

Address: 9697 GA-75, Helen, GA 30545, United States

17. Russell-Brasstown Scenic Byway

The Russell-Brasstown Scenic Byway, which meanders through picturesque North Georgia, is the perfect getaway and drive.

Just a short stroll off the main road will take you to stunning waterfalls and remote views.

Visitors can escape at one of the many waterfalls along the byways or take in the 360-degree vistas from Brasstown Bald, Georgia’s tallest mountain.

This 38-mile hike takes you to the highest points of Georgia’s mountains and puts you in close proximity to some of the most breathtaking natural treasures the mountains have to offer.

The route is a beautiful picturesque route in the North Georgia Mountains, whether you’re traveling by automobile or motorcycle.

Address: Helen, GA 30545, United States

Perhaps you just want to enjoy the whole of the state, then check out things to do in Georgia!

18. Bodensee Restaurant

Eating German food is one of the best things to do in Helena and Bodensee is one of the top places to do it.

Whether you are looking to have breakfast, a quick lunch, or a romantic dinner for two, you are covered.

They provide a large selection of German cuisine to suit every taste at the restaurant in the heart of Helen.

You can try out their spaetzle. Their mozzarella cheese-based spaetzle gratin is really excellent.

In addition, there are many other delicious German alternatives, like schnitzel, bratwurst, and garlic wurst.

Chef Aurel Prodan and his fellow chefs prepare every dish with care and authenticity.

There is also karaoke every Friday and Saturday night.

Address: 64 Munich Strasse, Helen, GA 30545, United States

19. Yonah Mountain Hiking Trail

Here is another place in Helen to get some fantastic views of the city.

The 3,166-foot-tall Mount Yonah towers dramatically above the gently rolling hills of White County all around it.

Yonah Mountain’s difficult ascent to the summit will reward you with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

It is a 2.3-mile walk that is well-known and beautiful, with amazing vistas, nature, and scenery along the way.

Furthermore, you will pass through lush forests and scramble up steep inclines and scattered rocky outcrops as you hike along the clearly marked path.

It would be best if you pack plenty of water and nutritious snacks, like almonds, fruits, and protein bars for this lovely trail.

Enjoy breaks! Since you will get fantastic views from the summit, don’t hesitate to get your camera ready.

Address: 1900 Chambers Road, Cleveland, GA near Helen, GA, Helen, GA 30528

20. Helen Arts & Heritage Center

Established in 2007, Helen Arts & Heritage center is the place to go if you’re searching for a gift or a genuine souvenir of your trip to North Georgia.

The establishment serves as a showcase for the unique skills of the community’s artists and historians.

The gallery is a cheerful, welcoming place to shop, and the artwork is quite cheaply priced.

They display a sizable collection of works created by regional artists.

The artwork captures the lovely spirit of the place and is both inspirational and creative.

A museum featuring historical items from Helen is also housed in the facility.

Similarly, Helen Arts and Heritage Center hosts several seminars and historical events throughout the year, which you can attend.

On Tuesdays, six-week courses of free art classes are available only to veterans of the armed forces.

Asides from the history and beauty, the center is also a gathering spot for locals, business owners, and tourists to exchange past and memories.

Address: 25 Chattahoochee Strasse, Helen, GA 30545, United States

21. Cool River Tubing, Helen

Visit the Chattahoochee River in style while tubing.

Take the 2-hour trip and float down the Chattahoochee River while taking in the cold.

The check-in procedure, which also includes the transport to the river, is one of the big draws here.

In case you didn’t catch it, the tube trips include shuttle service, your tube, and a leisurely float through Helen’s picturesque Alpine Village.

The fun really starts when you’re in the water.

While floating is enjoyable and peaceful, the real spectacle is witnessing human nature at its most absurd and interesting.

People losing items, getting stuck and attaching four tubes together, and, of course, those floating off to have a nice time.

They also have a gift shop with all the goods you’ll need, including shirts, hats, and water shoes.

The establishment is open daily from Memorial Day through Labor Day, from 9 am-6 pm.

Address: 590 Edelweiss Strasse, Helen, GA 30545, United States

22. Alpine Carriage Company

One of Helen’s main attractions is riding in a carriage. In short, what better way to explore Helen’s lovely town than to ride along in a charming horse-drawn carriage?

At the end of Helen River Street, you will find the horse-drawn carriages lined up.

Whether for pickup from hotels, restaurants, or weddings, they offer special rides.

They have a lovely Cinderella carriage and other covered coaches to keep you safe from the elements.

Additionally, a variety of buggies are available, including a 20-person, wheelchair-accessible Cinderella Buggy.

You are given a carrot to feed the lovely, healthy horses after your ride.

Even though they merely circle the block, it’s still an excellent way to kill 20 minutes!

Address: 15 Yonah St, Helen, GA 30545, United States

23. MindEscapes Escape Rooms, Helen

Want one of the best family activities to do in Helen? Or you want to engage in some mental training on your trip to Helen, Georgia?

With MindEscapes numerous themed escape rooms, Mind Escapes offers a tough experience.

Perhaps you are not familiar with escape rooms. Escapes are themed rooms with clues to escape the rooms.

Similarly, before time runs out, you must search the rooms for hints and solve puzzles to escape.

In fact, you can choose between four different rooms: cabin in the Woods, Clue Me In, Trapped in Misery, and Hellin Hotel.

Find clues, solve riddles, complete tasks, defeat the adversary, and get freedom.

Address: Alpine Village Shopping Center, 8160 S Main St Unit B-6, Helen, GA 30545, United States

24. Helen & Back Food Tours

You shouldn’t miss this food tour if it is your first time visiting Helen.

The guide takes you to several of Helen’s top eateries and bars, where you can experience delicious food and learn about the history of this charming Alpine Village from a local’s perspective.

You are provided with a wide selection of German culinary options!

In fact, it’s incredible how much food you get for the price. So that you won’t need dinner, make sure to arrive hungry.

Enjoy the flavors of Helen while learning about its history.

Visit five or six independently owned restaurants or vineyards in the Helen area for meals, desserts, and beverages.

Address: Helen, Georgia

23. Mully’s Nacoochee Grill, Helen

To get the down-home dining experience of your dreams, visit Mully’s Nacoochee Grill.

Mully’s is popular with locals and visitors since it has all the characteristics of an ancient house and a cozy, modern ambiance.

The chef-driven cuisine offers a variety of regional farm-to-table dishes.

The cuisine is characterized by ingredients like hand-cut steaks, fresh, locally caught trout, and shrimp and grits, to name a few.

It enhances the homestyle flavor of delicious Southern dishes like shrimp and grits to make them even better.

The full bar at Mully’s offers daily drink specials, regional wines, domestic and foreign wines, and a wide variety of beers.

Address: 7277 S Main St, Helen, GA 30545, United States

26. Bavarian Mountain Miniature Golf, Helen

Bavarian Mountain Miniature Golf is a great family spot you shouldn’t miss in Helen.

There are two 18-hole courses available for selection.

They also have an alternate “mystery hole” where you can get a free game if you make a hole-in-one.

In addition to the outdoor fun, you will also find a ton of things to do indoors, which includes air hockey, a pool, and many more games.

Don’t forget to visit Romeo, the kind dog of the owners. You might get a discount.

It is open from 10 am to 9 pm on Sundays through Fridays and from 10 am to 10 pm on Saturdays.

Address: 8065 S Main St, Helen, GA 30545, United States

27. Hansel And Gretel Candy Kitchen

Want to satiate your sweet tooth? Then visit Hansel and Gretel Candy kitchen.

Established in 1973, Hansel & Gretel Candy Kitchen is a manufacturer and retailer of premium chocolates and other sweets.

Everything is available there, including fudge, candy, caramel apples, and peanut brittle.

The chocolate-dipped strawberries are incredible!

Additionally, they sell chocolate-dipped potato chips! These have a decent flavor as well.

The candy smells terrific and is quite stunning to look at. Their assortment of fudges is also excellent.

In fact, it’s challenging to decide. Free samples of their delicious fudge and peanut brittle are also available.

Address: 8651 N Main St, Helen, GA 30545-2323

28. Betty’s Country Store, Helen

While visiting Helen, Betty is the place to do some shopping.

In fact, Betty’s has all the groceries you need if you plan to stay in Helen for a while.

For almost five decades, Betty’s Country Store has been a part of the Helen community.

They import a wide range of items from Europe, including German streusel cake mix.

Additionally, a wide range of regional goods is available, including jams, jellies, pickled vegetables, fresh cakes, and wines.

A wide variety of regional flavors are also available at this location: pickled eggs, hot peaches, and pig crisps.

Inside, there is a deli, and seating where you can consume the sandwiches you purchase.

The best part? The neighborhood’s hotels and villas are conveniently close to the store. So you may drop by and pick up some groceries.

Address: 18 Yonah St, Helen, GA 30545, United States

29. BabyLand General Hospital

Babyland General Hospital is a fascinating museum with a great toy store, making for a unique experience.

In fact, it is an excellent destination for children and those who long to be children once more.

The museum is a huge, immaculately organized space with a ton of historical information and vintage dolls on display. The dolls are arranged in the cutest arrays and based on various themes.

They also have a large selection of toys for boys and girls, including cabbage patch dolls.

Additionally, you can discover where creator Xavier Roberts got the idea for these dolls and how they came to be such a hit.

Georgia’s BabyLand General Hospital is among the most entertaining destinations you can visit in Georgia.

Address: 300 NOK Dr, Cleveland, GA 30528, United States

Final Remark

With the heavenly aroma of genuine German food and lots of great outdoor activities, Helen is just the right spot for you if you enjoy being outside and around nature.