We reached out to our friend Morgan, the amazing author of Middletons on the Move, to share her expertise on how to spend a perfect weekend in Helen, Georgia. Morgan is a Georgia native who has been visiting Helen multiple times a year since childhood. Get ready to dive into her insider tips below to make the most of your visit to Helen!
As a child, I absolutely loved visiting the local candy and fudge shops and sitting on Santa’s lap the weekend after Thanksgiving – our annual family tradition.
As an adult, my husband and I continue to visit frequently. We enjoy strolling through the shops, tubing down the river, and sipping a cold beverage on Paul’s Margarita Deck overlooking the water.
Keep reading to get the inside scoop about the best ways to spend a weekend in Helen, Georgia.
How to Spend an Amazing Weekend in Helen, Georgia
Helen is a small town in North Georgia that mimics a standard Bavarian village in Germany. You will feel like you are being transported from the United States.
While most Georgia natives would say Helen is quite touristy, and it can be, it is still a fun place to spend some time. Here are the top things you should see and do while in the area on a weekend getaway.
Things to Do in Helen
Browse the Shops
There are plenty of shops in downtown Helen with a wide variety of items. You can find everything from gift shops to glassblowing, leather, hats, jewelry, and more. You could spend your entire weekend in Helen exploring all of the options.
Georgia Mountain Coaster
Check out the first, and only, mountain coaster in the state of Georgia! The single car is equipped with its own braking system which allows the rider to control their speed. Yes, for other adrenaline junkies like me, you can go as fast as you want!
They are open every day of the year (weather permitting) and your 2nd ride on the same day is half off.
There are some limitations on what you can bring with you, who can ride, and if you can ride tandem. Check out the Georgia Mountain Coaster website for all the details.
Hike to Unicoi State Park
Hill Park is located slightly off Main Street and offers free parking and a playground for children. It also has a trailhead for a walking trail that leads to Unicoi State Park Lodge.
Round trip, this moderate trail to explore the North Georgia Mountains is approximately 5 miles. You can also add a loop around the lake for another 2 miles or so.
This trail is well-marked and easy to navigate with occasional wildlife. I have not personally experienced any furry friends while on this trail but there are some reports of black bear sightings.
You can take your dog with you as long as he or she is on a leash. Stop at the lodge for drinks and snacks before making your return trip.
Looking for more hikes during your weekend in Helen? Check out these beautiful waterfalls close to Helen, including the popular Anna Ruby Falls.
Tube the River
Several places in Helen offer tubing down the Chattahoochee River. Cool River Tubing is a reputable company to rent from. Grab your friends and prepare for some fun and laughs as you make your way downstream. The water stays cool year-round so this is a recommendation for a warm summer day.
If you are visiting during a cooler month or do not want to get in the water, stroll down the riverbanks and keep your eye out for people fly fishing. We love to watch from above at Paul’s Margarita Deck.
Oktoberfest
Oktoberfest in Helen is quite an experience. If you plan to attend, prepare for large crowds and a fun time. This event begins on the weekends in September and spans almost the entire month of October. You will see everything from parades, traditional dancing, and people consuming large amounts of German food and beer.
Be aware that lines will be longer, finding a seat or room reservation will be harder, and typically prices will be higher during this time.
Experience Christmas Cheer
If you are in town on Black Friday (the day after Thanksgiving), you can watch Santa and Mrs. Claus arrive to turn on the Christmas lights. The Lighting of the Village typically occurs at 5:00 pm followed by optional visits with Santa.
Santa returns to Helen each weekend in December leading up to Christmas. He can be found in the Downtown Market Plaza. This location is amazing for photo ops (with or without Santa).
Visit Nora Mill Granary
During your weekend in Helen, head to the Nora Mill Granary. While this will require getting in your vehicle, it is a short drive from the main town and is definitely worth the trip.
Constructed in 1876, this gristmill is still operational and is run by the 4th generation of the Fain family! Watch your head and step as you make your way through the building but check out the large selection of products that are made from corn and wheat.
This includes everything from flour, mixes (biscuit, bread, muffin, pancake, waffles, etc.), grits, and more. They also have a general store that supplies all the “fixins” – honey, jams, and jellies.
Make sure you walk on the back deck to see the river from above. You may even get lucky and be able to feed the fish!
Helen Fun Factory
Looking for a little more adventure for the whole family during your weekend in Helen? The Helen Fun Factory has a wide variety of activities including:
- Go-karts (including Adult Only Karts)
- Laser tag
- Glow in the dark roller skating
- An inflatable park
- Arcade games
Best Restaurants In Helen
Muller’s Fried Cheese Cafe
This is a great place to try authentic German and Czech food. If you are not an adventurous foodie (I’m not either), they have some standard American options as well.
Muller’s is open daily starting at 9:00 am and serves breakfast, lunch, and an early dinner. Their closing time varies between 6:00 and 8:00 pm daily.
The Heidelberg (previously known as Old Heidelberg)
The Heidelberg’s logo says “German Restaurant – Pub – Music Hall” and that is the perfect description of this three-story restaurant off the main square. This venue has a lively atmosphere especially later in the day. I recommend ordering the Giant Pretzel with beer cheese – yum!
The Troll Tavern
I cannot guarantee this is where the name came from but I assume it is the Troll Tavern because it is located by the water under the bridge. This recommendation comes for a few reasons.
They have patio seating near the river. There is also indoor and bar seating. Enjoy the laid-back atmosphere. The menu has a good assortment of options including appetizers, soups, salads, German fare, burgers, sandwiches, wraps, entrees, and a kid’s menu.
Hofer’s Bakery and Café
Looking for something sweet? Check out Hofer’s of Helen, a Bavarian Café. They are open Friday-Tuesday from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm and offer breakfast, sandwiches, drinks, and dessert.
Hofer’s also makes amazing wedding cakes! If you love their food, they even ship some of their bakery items like their Bavarian Pretzels, Pretzel Rolls, and French Rolls.
Paul’s Margarita Deck
If you are looking for a quicker option, Paul’s Margarita Deck might be the right choice. You walk up, order, and find a seat. In addition to the extensive drink menu including specialty mixed drinks and house wine, they serve traditional American dishes like steaks and seafood dishes.
They often have live music and there are plenty of places to sit overlooking the river.
Where to Stay in Helen
Helendorf Inn
The Helendorf Inn has a very convenient central location in Helen and is located on the Chattahoochee River. The major pros for this accommodation option are its waterfront location, riverfront patio with a charcoal grill, continental breakfast, free Wi-Fi, and free parking.
Yes, I said free parking. It is in a central location that is within walking distance of almost everything!
Uhuburg
Looking for something unique? Stay in a Renaissance Castle! Yes, you heard me correctly. A true castle.
There are 4 Castle Chambers – King Chamber, Queen Chamber, Prince Chamber, and Princess Chamber – each equipped with a queen-sized bed, en suite bath, and its own unique color scheme.
Additionally, there are 6 Gate Houses available to stay in. These private units have an en suite bathroom and 4 of the units have kitchenettes.
The Uhuburg not only offers accommodations, they also offer day visits, guided tours, and more. Even if you do not stay at Uhuburg, we highly encourage you to visit. The gardens and philosophical murals are worth the trip.
Riverbend Hotel & Cabins
The Riverbend Hotel & Cabins provide some variety with everything from a standard hotel room to riverfront cabins. Even better, the Riverbend Hotel & Cabins are pet-friendly! Check out their website for all the details.
The Riverbend also offers complimentary breakfast, free Wi-Fi, and free parking.
Holiday Inn Express & Suites
Want a place you have heard of before? Check out the local Holiday Inn Express & Suites. It is more modern than the other options we have mentioned but also a little farther away from the Main Street experience where people like to explore. If you are willing to walk about 0.5 miles in each direction, this might be a good option for you.
Final Thoughts on An Amazing Weekend in Helen, Georgia
Pick a season when you want to visit and plan a trip to Helen, Georgia. Better yet, plan multiple trips to explore the area during different times of the year. The leaves in the fall are beautiful. The water in the summer is refreshing. The Christmas cheer is undeniable.
Are you planning an extended stay and want more things to do in North Georgia? Check out these great options!
More Places to Visit in Georgia:
