Things to Do
-
Blue Ridge Scenic Railway
A classic train ride along the Toccoa River that delights both kids and adults, with open-air cars, scenic views, and stops in McCaysville.
Distance: Approximately 6 miles
Drive Time: ~12 minutes
Website: brscenic.com
-
Mercier Orchards
A family-owned apple orchard and market that's been a Blue Ridge tradition for over 80 years. Enjoy U-pick apples (seasonally), bakery treats, hard ciders, farm-to-table shopping, and tractor rides. Perfect for families, couples, and anyone who loves a taste of the mountains.
Distance: Approximately 5 miles
Drive Time: ~10 minutes
Website: mercier-orchards.com
-
Lake Blue Ridge
Rent pontoon boats, kayaks, or paddleboards and explore the crystal-clear waters of Lake Blue Ridge, surrounded by mountain vistas.
Distance: Approximately 7 miles
Drive Time: ~14 minutes
Website: lakeblueridgemarina.com
-
Fall Branch Falls
A short, family-friendly hike leading to a picturesque double waterfall deep in the Chattahoochee National Forest.
Distance: Approximately 10 miles
Drive Time: ~20 minutes
-
Toccoa River Swinging Bridge
The longest swinging bridge east of the Mississippi, offering a unique hiking destination over the beautiful Toccoa River.
Distance: Approximately 15 miles
Drive Time: ~30 minutes
-
Swan Drive-In Movie Theater
One of the last remaining drive-in theaters in Georgia—showing first-run movies under the stars with a nostalgic twist.
Distance: Approximately 7 miles
Drive Time: ~14 minutes
Website: swan-drive-in.com
-
Old Toccoa Farm Golf Course
A scenic 18-hole course along the Toccoa River, offering challenging play with elevation changes and stunning mountain views.
Distance: Approximately 7 miles
Drive Time: ~15 minutes
Website: oldtoccoafarm.com
-
Fly Fishing
Cohutta Fishing Company or Fly Fish Blue Ridge
Offers guided fly fishing trips on the Toccoa River and surrounding streams, catering to all skill levels.
Website:cohuttafishingco.com
Website:flyfishblueridge.com
Distance: Approximately 6 miles
Drive Time: ~12 minutes
-
Lilly Pad Village
A charming outdoor destination offering gem mining, mini golf, and catch-and-release fishing in a peaceful forest setting.
Distance: Approximately 8 miles
Drive Time: ~15 minutes
Website: lillypadvillage.com
-
Cohutta Cove Mini Golf & Gem Mining
An 18-hole miniature golf course combined with gem mining activities, suitable for all ages.
Distance: Approximately 7 miles
Drive Time: ~14 minutes
Website: cohuttacoveminigolf.com
-
Blue Ridge Adventure Park
An aerial obstacle course (ages 10+) featuring 35 challenges across three levels, ranging from 15 to 50 feet high. Suitable for ages 10 and up, it's a thrilling experience for families and adventure seekers alike.
Distance: Approximately 6 miles
Drive Time: ~12 minutes
Website: blueridgeadventurepark.com
-
Explore Downtown Blue Ridge
Wander the walkable streets of Blue Ridge’s historic downtown district, filled with boutique shops, local art galleries, wine tasting rooms, and cozy coffee spots. It’s the perfect place to spend a slow afternoon—whether you’re browsing antiques, grabbing lunch on a patio, or picking up a bottle of local wine to bring back to the cabin.
Distance: Approximately 6 miles
Drive Time: ~12 minutes
Website: blueridgemountains.com/downtown
GOOD EATS
-
Harvest on Main
Upscale comfort food with a focus on local ingredients, set in a cozy, rustic atmosphere.
Distance: Approximately 6 miles
Drive Time: ~12 minutes
Website:harvestonmain.com
-
The Black Sheep
Refined Southern cuisine and craft cocktails served under a 200-year-old oak tree in a historic home.
Distance: Approximately 6 miles
Drive Time: ~12 minutes
Website:blacksheepblueridge.com
-
Southern Charm
Classic Southern dishes in a welcoming, family-friendly environment.
Distance: Approximately 6 miles
Drive Time: ~12 minutes
Website:eatsoutherncharm.com
-
Toccoa Riverside Restaurant
Riverside dining offering steaks, seafood, and local trout in a scenic setting.
Distance: Approximately 10 miles
Drive Time: ~20 minutes
Website:toccoariversiderestaurant.com
-
Grace Prime Steakhouse
Elegant steakhouse offering prime cuts and a curated wine list in a modern-rustic setting.
Distance: Approximately 6 miles
Drive Time: ~12 minutes
Website:graceprime.com
-
Chester Brunnenmeyer's Bar & Grill
Rustic American bar and grill known for regional fare and a lively atmosphere.
Distance: Approximately 6 miles
Drive Time: ~12 minutes
Website:chestersblueridge.com
Wineries & Breweries
-
Bear Claw Vineyards
A family-friendly vineyard offering wine tastings, live music, and scenic views. Enjoy a relaxing atmosphere with outdoor seating and a treehouse stay option.
Distance: Approximately 6 miles
Drive Time: ~12 minutes
Website: bearclawvineyards.com
-
Serenberry Vineyards
A charming, small vineyard nestled in the North Georgia mountains, offering a variety of wines in a peaceful setting.
Distance: Approximately 10 miles
Drive Time: ~20 minutes
Website: serenberryvineyards.com
-
Cartecay Vineyards
Located in Ellijay, this vineyard features live music, a rustic tasting barn, and a variety of wines to enjoy.
Distance: Approximately 18 miles
Drive Time: ~30 minutes
Website: cartecayvineyards.com
-
Chateau Meichtry Family Vineyard and Winery Holland
A family-owned vineyard in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, offering wine tastings, live music, and picturesque views.
Distance: Approximately 22 miles
Drive Time: ~35 minutes
Website: chateaumeichtry.com
-
Grumpy Old Men Brewing
A local microbrewery in Blue Ridge known for its wide selection of craft beers and laid-back atmosphere.
Distance: Approximately 6 miles
Drive Time: ~12 minutes
Website: grumpyoldmenbrewing.com
-
Tipping Point Brewing Co.
Blue Ridge’s first craft brewery taproom, offering small-batch beers brewed on-site, with a lively, welcoming atmosphere in the heart of downtown.
Distance: Approximately 6 miles
Drive Time: ~12 minutes
Website: tippingpointbrewingco.com
More to Explore in Blue Ridge
While we’ve shared some of our favorite places to eat, sip, hike, and explore, there’s so much more waiting for you in Blue Ridge and the surrounding mountains.
From seasonal festivals to new restaurants and hidden trails, we simply couldn't fit them all onto one list.
For a full guide to local events, dining, shopping, and adventures, visit: blueridgemountains.com
Looking to explore a little further?
Spend the day discovering the charming mountain town of Ellijay — known for its orchards, wineries, boutique shopping, and small-town Southern hospitality. visit: www.exploretheellijays.com