Some things are just synonymous with each other, like Idaho potatoes, Napa wine, or Wisconsin cheese. But this list of unique experiences you don’t want to miss is most certainly only found in Helen, Georgia. These are ten of the best reasons to visit this Bavarian-inspired Georgia gem—read on to see what awaits you in this one-of-a-kind destination:
- Oktoberfest
Oktoberfest is typically equated with Munich, Germany. But did you know the world’s longest-running annual celebration of German culture and food is actually right here in Helen? From September 5-8, 12-15, 19-22, and daily from September 26 through October 27, you can experience the 54th annual Helen Oktoberfest at the town’s Festhalle. Don your lederhosen or dirndl, make a platter of cheddarwurst, sauerkraut, and German potato salad, and toast the time with an authentically German beer in hand. Live, local bands provide German backbeats perfect to polka to. People flock from near and far to come to Helen’s Oktoberfest – it may even have you fooled that you’re not partaking in festivities across the pond! - Georgia Mountain Coaster
Georgia Mountain Coaster is the state’s only mountain coaster. What’s that, you ask? A mountain coaster is different from a traditional roller coaster. On a mountain coaster, you sit in a cart that can hold one or two riders. Each cart also controls its own speed, meaning that thrill seekers and those wanting a more leisurely speed to enjoy our area’s lush landscapes will happily roll along. Your kiddos will be talking about this all the way home! - Babyland General Hospital
Babyland General Hospital is where Cabbage Patch kids are born, not made. Voted as one of the Travel Channel’s Top Ten Toylands, Babyland General Hospital is an immersive experience for Cabbage Patch enthusiasts of all ages, available to the public for self-guided, complimentary tours. Thousands of Cabbage Patch Kids are on site, waiting to leave the loving care of Licensed Patch Doctors and Nurses to be adopted and taken home by you or one of your children. - Uhuburg Castle
For those that wish you could be king or queen for a day, that daydream may be one step closer with a visit to Uhuburg. Uhuburg is Georgia’s largest castle, inspired by Renaissance structures while also offering fresh educational insights into their four missional pillars: reflection, nutrition, nature, and celebration. Climb the tower to experience sweeping views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, stroll the philosophical murals, or learn more about all the practical gardening efforts happening across their 45 acres, from produce gardens and vineyards to the greenhouse. You can even stay overnight for no end to a mystical evening (though all guests must be 18 years or older). As long as you’re on Uhuburg grounds, you’ll encounter regal enlightenment like no other while feeling like you’re part of a modern day fairy tale. - German and Bavarian Foods
Helen is home to some of the most authentic German and Bavarian foods in the country, from apple strudel to spätzle and sauerkraut. For German classics with riverfront seating, check out Hofbrauhaus – or venture under the bridge to dine at The Troll Tavern.
The Heidelberg and King Ludwig’s Biergarten are located on the main square and have overflowing beverage menus alongside a wide offering of schnitzel platters and sausage plates.One of the highest ranked restaurants in the area is Bodensee Restaurant, where the Bavarian pretzel and beer cheese dip are crowd favorites but also where you’ll find some unique menu offerings like Tafelspitz (beef with potato dumplings and a horseradish sauce). Speaking of unique, Old Bavaria Inn Restaurant may be a place to go when you’re craving those German staples in an atmosphere that feels like home.For breakfast and lunch (and a little pastry or ice cream in between), Hofer’s Bakery and Café has gone to great lengths to bring German cuisine and décor to the area – from all of their furniture being imported from Germany to using their authentic family recipes. Their Bratwurst on a pretzel roll or the Reuben have been customer favorites for years.
If you or some in your traveling crew aren’t yet too keen on German fare, never fear – Helen has plenty of other eateries, too. For breakfast that’s served all day and 6 different fried cheese entrees like kabobs, check out Muller’s Famous Fried Cheese Café. Café International serves up German, American, French, and Italian dishes to make sure everyone around the table orders something they love.
- Folk Pottery Museum of Northeast Georgia
The Folk Pottery Museum of Northeast Georgia is where history, art, and culture intersect, with accents of modern technology sprinkled throughout. As the only folk pottery museum in the Southeast, the Folk Pottery Museum of Northeast Georgia provides a centralized home for a wide variety of pieces from across North Georgia. You’ll marvel at the craftsmanship that produced 4-foot-tall pieces from the 1840s, or share a smile with the face jugs on display. Audio-visual presentations, seminars, special tours, and demonstrations by local potters make this ancient art form come to life for today’s patrons. The Museum is open year-round with free admission, Monday-Saturday from 10 AM-5 PM and Sunday from 1-5 PM. - Anna Ruby (Dual) Waterfalls
Anna Ruby Falls is nestled into the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest and is home to two breathtaking waterfalls. The falls, casting down at 150 feet, are accessible after a 0.5-mile trail walk while learning about the area’s flora and fauna. As one of the most visited waterfalls in north Georgia, Anna Ruby Falls welcomes everyone. There’s also a 0.15-mile Lion’s Eye trail for those visiting who may not be up for the 0.5-mile trail. Picnic areas, a visitor center, and gift shop are on site to complete your trip. - Old Sautee Store
If you’re craving that age-old nostalgia of perusing an old-fashioned, wooden-floored general store, plan to visit Old Sautee Store. As the oldest general store still in operation in Georgia, Old Sautee Store is a step back into historical times all its own. No matter what you’re shopping for – from drinks and candy to clothes, décor, and keepsakes – you’ll find something that’s sure to come home with you. The onsite Market is also popular among locals for classic sandwiches and ice cream. - Alpine Slot Cars
The fastest attraction in the area is hands down Alpine Speedway, home to the largest indoor slot car racing track in the country. An indoor slot car racing track is scaled to 1/32 the size of a typical racetrack, meaning the whole family can keep up with all the action. Their two tracks and various speed slot cars provide options for first-time visitors and seasoned slot racers alike. You can participate with your own car for a nominal fee per race, but spectating is free. - Unicoi Adventure Lodge and Park
Unicoi Adventure Lodge and Park is a gem in the Chattahoochee National Forest. You’ll feel totally unplugged while in the center of it all at the largest lodge park operation in Georgia, being just 4 miles from the heart of Helen, and a little over 5 miles from Anna Ruby Falls (with hiking trails from the Lodge to each). You’re close to limitless recreational options, but you may find it difficult to leave the grounds with all the activities you can do here – from mountain biking to archery, axe throwing, and fly fishing. While there are ample campgrounds and RV sites, mountain cabins are also available for an elevated natural retreat experience. Cabins feature modern touches like coffeemakers in the kitchen and Wi-Fi, while delivering on that cozy factor that comes with a stay in the mountains. Don’t miss Unicoi Restaurant that uses local ingredients to craft delectable Southern and American dishes for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Helen—Synonymous with Fun
You’ll only find these chart-topping experiences in Helen– our quaint town in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains along the Chattahoochee River. Use this list to chart your own adventure while you’re in town and see for yourself how these memories can only be made here. Click here for lodging info to facilitate your epic escape to Helen, Georgia.