Things to do in Helen, Ga

If you are looking for a vacation from the busy city life of Atlanta or from city really, then look no further than these tThings to do in Helen, GaThings to do in Helen, GaThings to do in Helen, Ga ings to do in Helen, Ga. This town boasts of community driven festivals, kid friendly adventures, global cuisine, and plenty of awesome get away spots for couples.Things to do in Helen, Ga

What is Helen, GA?

Quick history behind this historic town, it was founded in 1912 and the name “Helen” comes from one of the lumber officials’ daughters. The town was formally a logging town that wasn’t quite cutting it, so in 1969 the city decided to adopt a classic-German style architecture on every building to resurrect itself. Today, tourism is the key economic driver for the town as it houses visitors year-round that come from all over to experience the lavish festivals, mountainous air, and tube down the Chattahoochee.

5 top things to do in Helen, GA

Here are the top 5 things to do if you ever decided to visit the German-style town!

Tube the Chattahoochee

Indeed, this is the most popular thing to do for visitors coming into Helen with large groups. There are multiple places you can stop along the road to rent tubes and take the journey! Park your car at one of the tubing locations and rent a tube. Tube down the river for several hours leisurely enjoying the brisket mountain air and cool water beneath you. Departure locations are usually indicated by other people getting out of the river or marked by a sign. A bus will drive you back to your car where you are free to continue about your day.

Things to bring

One thing to consider bringing a small bag to store their valuable with a water proof bag inside for your phone, keys, and wallet. Obviously make sure to bring snacks to munch on and a 32-oz non-glass water bottle. Unfortunately, beer and liquor are not allowed while floating on the river and the Helen PD are always enforcing this rule. A push stick is also recommended for when the river gets low, so your tube does not get stuck on rocks below. Tubing is a great way to spend quality time with the family, friend group, or a company outing!

Cool River Tubing

Particularly, we recommend using a company like Cool River Tubing where you can link your tubes together and float down the river as a group! At this tubing vender, $8 includes your tube, shuttle, life-jacket, tie straps, and key-saver service. Additionally, Cool River Tubing has group rates for parties of 10+. Cool River Tubing will be opening services on Memorial Day weekend (Monday, May 27) for the summer season!

To learn more and schedule your tubing adventure, click here: Cool River Tubing

The Chattahoochee Stables

This is one of the best things to do if you have smaller kids that have never had a chance to ride a horse! This place has no age limit for kids on double riders, but single riders must be over the age of 5. For single riders the price is around $40 a person and for double riders, the price is around $50 per horse. For events like this one, it is best to call ahead and make a reservation. We recommend calling at least 24 hours in advance to make sure they have availability to fit your party in.

Prepare to ride

For this event you are going to want to wear specific clothes and shoes. Long pants are a must and closed toe shoes are highly recommended if you do not own boots. If you are planning to ride in the Winter, plan accordingly and wear a few layers with gloves so you can enjoy the experience and not freeze.

To learn more and schedule your horse ride, click here: Chattahoochee Stables

Hike Anna Ruby Falls

While in Helen, the best thing to do is get out and enjoy the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape! What is a better way to do this than go for a hike to an awesome waterfall location!

Anna Ruby Falls is just up the road from Helen about 5 miles away. The drive should take less than 10-15 minutes and it is well worth the drive. Parking is free, but there is a $3 per person charge to take the hike. The hike starts at the park’s visitor center which is just outside Unicoi State Park.

The Hike

The hike is less than one mile, on a paved trail and is absolutely beautiful. The trail is also kid, stroller, and dog friendly. The path to the waterfall is through a canopy of lush trees, green moss-covered rock outcrops, and the soothing sounds of nature. As you hike up the slight incline, you start to hear the water bouncing off the rocks louder and louder as you get closer to the waterfall. As the falls become visible, there is a great spot for photos and a moment of relaxation and awe.

The falls are great for family hikes that is less than a mile in length. There are great photo opportunities with the beautiful waterfalls

Ready to check out the waterfall? Plan ahead by checking out the website here: Anne Ruby Falls

Food in Helen GA

Helen has many amazing features about the city. What comes along with the German-classic style architecture is an array of international food choices. We have picked two of our authentic favorites below that we think you will absolutely love!

Hofer’s of Helen

Above all, first is our choice for lunch which is, Hofer’s of Helen. In particular, Hofer’s is an amazing bakery and café that serves the community year-round with excellent food. The café portion of Hofer’s aims to bring the ambiance of authentic German vibes along with the authentic German food. The menu for was created from family recipes brought from Germany with a dash of other international favorites.

Ready to check out the menu? Click the link here to learn more about Hofer’s and get your taste buds ready: Hofer’s of Helen

Spice 55

Second on the menu of selected is a town favorite that might surprise you. For dinner, we have selected Spice 55 which prides itself on being a fine Thai dining and sushi bar! Spice 55 is the number one restaurant in Helen by Tripadvisor and for good reasons!

Specifically, the most popular things on the menu has to be the volcano roll and the crispy duck which is a must try if you ever visit this place! The menu can get a tad pricey, but it is well worth ever dollar to have amazing sushi in such an odd place.

If you are ready to order your sushi rolls and stuff your face with spring rolls, visit their site here and check out their hours and other menu options: Spice 55

Wine in Helen GA

No trip to Helen is complete without experiencing some of the hidden secrets this city has to offer. One of those secrets being the Habersham Vineyards & Winery! Habersham is one of North Georgia’s oldest and largest wineries that has been around since 1983. The winery is open daily from 10 – 6pm for wine tastings. They also occasionally have live music, an annual Winefest event, and food!

In addition, Habersham utilizes the distinctly southern Muscadine grape for their wines. On some wines they use American, French and Hungarian oak barrels. The most popular label is their own Habersham Creekstone Cabernet Sauvignon wine.

If you like to taste test wine, then Habersham is the place to go!

Ready to taste some amazing wine grown here in Georgia? Find out more here: Habersham Vineyards