Ellijay, Georgia: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Are you ready to explore a charming mountain town? Welcome to Ellijay, Georgia, a place full of activities and attractions. It's a picturesque spot for an unforgettable getaway. You can explore historic downtown or enjoy outdoor adventures here.

This article will show you the best things to do in Ellijay, Georgia. You'll find natural beauty, cultural experiences, and lots of adventure. Get ready to dive into Gilmer County and find the hidden gems of Ellijay.

Key Takeaways

• Ellijay, Georgia, is a charming mountain town with a wealth of activities and attractions for visitors
• Explore the historic downtown district and experience the region's outdoor adventures
• Discover the natural beauty, cultural experiences, and endless opportunities for adventure in Ellijay
• Uncover the hidden gems that make Ellijay a true gem of the North Georgia mountains
• Ellijay is located approximately 80 miles north of Atlanta, making it easily accessible for visitors

Charming Downtown Ellijay

The heart of Ellijay, Georgia, is its beautiful downtown area. Here, visitors can walk along historic streets and find many Ellijay shops, boutiques, and Ellijay eateries. You can explore unique items at Main Street Antiques or enjoy wood-fired pizza at Ellijay Wood Fired Pizza. This town is full of ways to dive into the Ellijay arts and history.

Explore Shops and Eateries

Downtown Ellijay has a lively mix of specialty stores. The Ellijay Marketplace is great for souvenirs and local crafts. For food lovers, Cornerstone Café serves delicious breakfast and lunch. Kasei Sushi and Sake offers a unique Asian dining experience.

Discover Local Arts and History

The Gilmer Arts Center highlights local artists' work. It gives a peek into the area's creative community. The Tabor House & Civil War Museum is perfect for history buffs. It shares stories of the Civil War era in the area.

"Ellijay's downtown is a charming blend of history and modern-day appeal, with its classic old buildings, unique shops, and delectable eateries. It's a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the North Georgia mountains."

Stay in a Cozy Cabin Rental

Nestled in the heart of the North Georgia mountains, Ellijay is perfect for experiencing the region's beauty and charm. Staying in a cozy cabin rental lets you dive into this picturesque setting. These places offer a peaceful retreat with fireplaces, hot tubs, and stunning mountain views.

Ellijay's cabin rentals are great for exploring the area's outdoor adventures, wineries, and orchards. They're perfect for any trip, whether it's a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a weekend with friends. You'll find many cabin options, from charming log cabins to modern retreats, in this scenic town.

Ellijay has many cabin rentals to choose from, so you'll find the perfect retreat for your North Georgia getaway. Whether you want a cozy cabin for a romantic weekend or a big lodge for a family reunion, you'll be amazed by the options. Start planning your stay in Ellijay today and enjoy the best of North Georgia's beauty and charm.

Ellijay, Georgia: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Visit Local Wineries and Vineyards

Ellijay is famous for its apples and also has a great winery scene. You can try wine tastings and tours at places like Engelheim Vineyards, Grapes and Ladders, and Cartecay Vineyards. These spots let you taste Georgia's grape varieties and learn about winemaking here.

Georgia's Wine Highway

The area around Ellijay is part of Georgia's Wine Highway. This route links wineries and tasting rooms across the North Georgia mountains. It's perfect for wine fans to check out the area's diverse wines. Whether you love wine or just enjoy a glass, Ellijay's wineries and vineyards are a top spot to visit.

"Ellijay has become a substantial wine-loving destination with wineries like Chateau Meichtry, Cartecay Vineyards, and OTT Vineyards."

Apple Picking at Orchards

Ellijay is known as the "Apple Capital of Georgia." It's a great place for apple picking. You can visit places like R & A Orchards, B.J. Reece Orchards, Red Apple Barn, and Hillcrest Orchards. Here, you can pick apples yourself, check out farm markets, and enjoy treats like cider, donuts, and fried pies.

These orchards are perfect for a fall outing. They show why Ellijay is famous for its apples.

R & A Orchards

R & A Orchards in Ellijay, Georgia, covers about 160 acres. It lets visitors pick apples on weekends in September and October. The place also has a beautiful flower field, adding to the autumn beauty.

B.J. Reece Orchards

B.J. Reece Orchards in Ellijay, Georgia, grows 20 apple types over 120 acres. It welcomes dogs on a leash. The orchard has a cider company with live music and food trucks, making visits fun.

Red Apple Barn

Red Apple Barn near Ellijay, Georgia, offers fun activities from late August. You can enjoy tractor rides, apple cider, and apple donuts. There's also a pumpkin patch for picking pumpkins, adding to the fall fun.

Hillcrest Orchards

Hillcrest Orchards in Ellijay, Georgia, has been around since 1946. It hosts an Apple Pickin' Jubilee in September and October. The orchard has over 20 attractions, including tours for schools and seniors during the week.

If you want to make apple treats or just enjoy fall, Ellijay's apple orchards are ideal. With many orchards to pick from, each offering different experiences and apple types, you'll find the perfect spot. Embrace Ellijay's title as the "Georgia Apple Capital."

Water Adventures on Rivers

Ellijay, Georgia, is a paradise for those who love the water. It has three beautiful rivers perfect for tubing, kayaking, and rafting. The Cartecay River, Ellijay River, and Coosawattee River are ideal for water fun.

Start a relaxing float down the Cartecay River with Ellijay River Outfitters. Choose from a one-mile or three-mile trip, each lasting about an hour. For more excitement, try the guided whitewater rafting tours with Cartecay River Experience. They take you through thrilling rapids.

The Ellijay River is perfect for those who want a peaceful water adventure. It flows gently through beautiful landscapes. Whether you want a calm float or an exciting ride, Ellijay's rivers have activities for everyone.

Experience the stunning beauty of Ellijay's rivers and make memories to last a lifetime during your Ellijay river adventures.

Nearby Lakes for Swimming and Fishing

Ellijay, Georgia, is surrounded by beautiful rivers and lakes. These lakes are perfect for swimming, fishing, and other water activities. Lake Blue Ridge and Carters Lake are two top spots for fun in the water.

Lake Blue Ridge

Lake Blue Ridge is near the North Carolina-Tennessee border. It's a favorite for boating, swimming, and fishing. The lake is surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains, offering clear waters and lots of shoreline for sports and relaxation.

Carters Lake

Carters Lake is the deepest lake in the Blue Ridge Mountains, near Ellijay. It has 60 miles of shoreline and is great for water sports, picnics, and hiking. With a depth of 450 feet, it's a top spot for fishing, offering many freshwater fish species.

Looking for a peaceful fishing day, a refreshing swim, or an exciting water adventure? The lakes near Ellijay have it all. They let visitors enjoy the area's natural beauty.

Outdoor Recreation

Nestled in the heart of the North Georgia mountains, Ellijay is a haven for outdoor lovers. Hikers can wander through the scenic trails of the Chattahoochee National Forest. The East Ridge Loop Trail takes you to the stunning Amicalola Falls, Georgia's tallest waterfall at 729 feet.

Hiking Trails

For those looking for a challenge, Ellijay is the "Mountain Bike Capital of Georgia." It has a vast network of exciting dirt tracks. The Mulberry Gap Road is a top spot for mountain biking, offering breathtaking views of the landscape.

Mountain Biking

There are also pristine lakes and rivers to explore, like the calm Carters Lake. It has 62 miles of untouched shoreline on 3,200 acres of crystal-clear water. Whether you love hiking, biking, or water sports, Ellijay has something for everyone.

"Ellijay's location in the North Georgia mountains means there are abundant opportunities for outdoor recreation."

Unique Attractions

Ellijay, Georgia, and the North Georgia area have some unique and quirky spots. Just 10 miles north of Ellijay, you'll find the Expedition: Bigfoot Museum. It's a place where you can learn about the Sasquatch through fun exhibits and artifacts.

Then, visit the Mountain Valley Farm for a special experience. Here, you'll find a farm store, a petting zoo, and amazing mountain views. These spots in Ellijay offer a break from the usual and let you see the whimsical side of the town.

Expedition: Bigfoot Museum

The Expedition: Bigfoot Museum is perfect for those who love the mysterious Sasquatch. It goes deep into the stories and facts about the creature. You'll see artifacts, displays, and things you can touch that will make you think.

Here, you step into the world of Bigfoot. You'll learn about its history and the evidence that backs it up.

Mountain Valley Farm

The Mountain Valley Farm is in the beautiful North Georgia countryside. It's a mix of farm fun and stunning views. You can check out the farm store for local products like fresh produce and handmade crafts.

Then, go to the petting zoo to meet friendly farm animals. And don't miss the amazing mountain views that make your visit even better.

"The Expedition: Bigfoot Museum and Mountain Valley Farm offer a truly unique and unforgettable experience that captures the quirky spirit of Ellijay and the surrounding North Georgia region."

Family-Friendly Activities

Ellijay, Georgia, is a perfect spot for families looking for fun and rest. The town hosts the Georgia Apple Festival every October. This event is filled with parades, food, music, and more. It's a great way for families to dive into local culture and traditions.

For those who love the outdoors, Amicalola Falls State Park is a must-see. It boasts the tallest waterfall in Georgia. Here, families can hike, picnic, and enjoy nature. They can also spot wildlife and take in the beautiful views.

• Ellijay is just 1.5 to 2 hours from Atlanta, making it easy to get to for families.
• The Georgia Apple Festival has lots of fun activities for families, like parades and tasty food.
• Amicalola Falls State Park offers great outdoor adventures with its huge waterfall and trails.

Ellijay has something for every family member, whether you want to experience local culture or enjoy the outdoors. Plan your trip and make memories in this lovely Georgia town.

Day Trips from Ellijay

Ellijay sits in the heart of the North Georgia mountains. It's a great spot for day trips to places like the town of

Blue Ridge

, the vast

Chattahoochee National Forest

, and the quirky Cherry Log. Cherry Log is known for its Expedition: Bigfoot museum and the famous Pink Pig restaurant.

Blue Ridge

Blue Ridge is only a 20-minute drive from Ellijay. It offers a charming day trip. You can walk through the downtown area, where you'll find shops, art galleries, and places to eat. For outdoor fun, head to Toccoa Riverside for hiking and fishing, or drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Chattahoochee National Forest

The Chattahoochee National Forest is a nature lover's dream, just a short drive away. It covers over 750,000 acres. You can explore forests, see waterfalls, and hike many trails. Make sure to hike to Brasstown Bald, the highest spot in Georgia.

Cherry Log

Cherry Log is 30 minutes from Ellijay and offers a special day trip. Check out the Expedition: Bigfoot museum or dine at the Pink Pig restaurant. Nature lovers can hike and birdwatch in the area.

Ellijay is in a great spot for exploring North Georgia's beauty and small-town life. It's perfect for those who love the outdoors, charming towns, or unique spots. A day trip from Ellijay has something for everyone.

Conclusion

Ellijay is a gem in the North Georgia mountains, offering something for everyone. You can explore the charming downtown, try the famous apple and wine, or go on exciting outdoor adventures. It's a perfect spot for a getaway.

Looking for a cozy cabin, a family vacation, or nature's beauty? Ellijay has it all. With activities like hiking, biking, water sports, and ziplining, it's great for active travelers.

Ellijay's history, food scene, and friendly community make it a top spot in the North Georgia mountains. As you wander through shops, taste local wines, and make memories, you'll see why it's a treasure to visit.