Looking for the best Things To Do In Ellijay GA? This small town in North Georgia is famous for its apples, mountains, and beautiful fall colors. Whether you love hiking, wine tasting, or just relaxing in nature, Ellijay has something for everyone.
From exploring waterfalls to tasting fresh apple cider, Ellijay is the perfect place for a weekend trip. The town has charming shops, cozy cabins, and some of the best outdoor adventures in Georgia. Keep reading to find out the top things to do in Ellijay for your next visit!
Explore the Best Outdoor Things to Do in Ellijay, GA
Ellijay is surrounded by mountains, rivers, and forests, making it perfect for outdoor lovers. You can hike, kayak, or simply enjoy the breathtaking views. The fresh mountain air will refresh your mind and body.
One of the best places to visit is Amicalola Falls State Park. The waterfall here is 729 feet tall, the highest in Georgia. You can hike up the trails or drive to the top for an amazing view. Fall is the best time to visit because of the colorful leaves.
If you enjoy water activities, head to Cartecay River. You can go kayaking, tubing, or simply relax by the water. Carters Lake is another beautiful spot where you can rent a boat, fish, or enjoy a quiet afternoon.
Biking lovers will love Ellijay’s mountain trails. The town is called the “Mountain Bike Capital of Georgia” because of its fantastic biking paths. The trails offer different levels, from easy to challenging, for every rider.
Experience Apple Picking & Fall Festivities in Ellijay
Ellijay is known as Georgia’s apple capital, and fall is the best time to visit the apple orchards. Families, couples, and friends all love picking fresh apples and enjoying homemade treats.
The most popular orchards include Hillcrest Orchards, B.J. Reece Orchards, and Red Apple Barn. These places let you pick apples straight from the trees. You can also try apple pies, donuts, and cider.
Every October, Ellijay hosts the Georgia Apple Festival. This event brings together locals and visitors to celebrate the apple harvest. There are parades, craft vendors, live music, and, of course, lots of apple treats to try.
If you love fresh apple cider, visit Reece’s Cider Company. They make delicious hard cider using local apples. You can try a cider flight and enjoy different flavors while relaxing in a scenic setting.
Sip & Relax – Best Wineries and Cider Houses in Ellijay
Ellijay is not just about apples; it also has some of the best wineries in Georgia. Whether you love red, white, or sweet wines, you’ll find a variety of flavors to enjoy.
One of the top spots is Engelheim Vineyards, where you can taste award-winning wines. They also have live music on weekends, making it a great place to unwind. Chateau Meichtry is another must-visit, with a beautiful vineyard and friendly atmosphere.
For a unique experience, check out Fainting Goat Vineyards & Winery. This place not only offers great wine but also stunning mountain views. You can sip your wine while watching the sunset over the hills.
If you prefer cider, Reece’s Cider Company is the best place to visit. They offer handcrafted hard ciders in various flavors. The outdoor seating and live music make it a fun and relaxing spot.
Discover the Charming Downtown Ellijay
Ellijay’s downtown area is full of history, charm, and unique shops. Whether you want souvenirs, antiques, or a cozy coffee shop, downtown has something for you.
Walk along Main Street and explore the cute local stores. Artful Ellijay is a great place for home decor, while Mountain Treasures has beautiful jewelry and gifts. Little Apple Mercantile is perfect for finding unique T-shirts and accessories.
If you love antiques, Ellijay has some of the best antique stores. Antiques on North Main, Black Bear Antiques, and Southern Flare Antiques all offer vintage treasures. You can find everything from rustic furniture to rare collectibles.
For coffee lovers, Hemlock Bazaar is a must-visit. They serve delicious coffee and also sell books and records. Try their famous “Honey Bear” coffee for a sweet fall treat.
Where to Eat – Best Restaurants in Ellijay, GA
Ellijay has a great mix of casual cafes and fine dining spots. Whether you want a quick bite or a fancy meal, you’ll find delicious food options.
For breakfast, visit The Ellijay Coffeehouse. They have freshly roasted coffee and tasty pastries. If you want something heartier, try Cornerstone Café for a classic Southern breakfast.
For lunch, Back Porch Bistro is a cozy spot offering homemade sandwiches, soups, and salads. If you’re craving barbecue, Poole’s Bar-B-Q serves smoked meats and classic Southern sides.
For dinner, enjoy a meal at The Roof, a rooftop restaurant with great views. Their menu includes burgers, seafood, and craft cocktails. Another top spot is The Butcher and Bottle, known for its steaks, seafood, and creative appetizers.
If you have a sweet tooth, don’t miss The Bavarian Chocolatier. They offer handmade chocolates, fresh fudge, and other tasty treats. It’s a great place to grab a dessert or a gift to take home.
Fun & Unique Attractions in Ellijay
Ellijay has some fun and unusual attractions that are worth checking out. If you love legends and mysteries, visit Expedition Bigfoot: The Sasquatch Museum. This family-friendly museum has stories, exhibits, and fun displays about Bigfoot sightings.
For photography lovers, Ellijay offers beautiful spots to capture stunning views. Carters Lake, Amicalola Falls, and downtown murals are great places for Instagram-worthy pictures.
For a relaxing evening, check out live music events at local wineries and breweries. Many places offer weekend performances where you can enjoy great tunes with a drink in hand.
Where to Stay – Cozy Cabins, B&Bs, and More
Ellijay has many great places to stay, whether you want a luxury cabin, a cozy B&B, or a unique glamping experience.
Best Stays in Ellijay:
- Cabin Rentals – Blue Sky Cabin Rentals offers cozy cabins with river or mountain views. Perfect for couples or families.
- Glamping – North Georgia Glamping offers stylish tents, geodomes, and Airstreams for a fun camping experience.
- Bed & Breakfasts – The Ellijay River House is a charming adults-only B&B with a peaceful riverside setting.
No matter where you stay, you’ll enjoy the natural beauty and warm hospitality of Ellijay.
Enjoy Seasonal Festivals and Local Events
Ellijay is a lively town with fun festivals and events throughout the year. These celebrations bring locals and visitors together to enjoy music, food, and traditions.
Must-Visit Festivals in Ellijay:
- Georgia Apple Festival (October) – The biggest event of the year, featuring arts, crafts, live music, and tons of apple treats.
- Taste of Ellijay (May) – A food festival where local restaurants showcase their best dishes. Perfect for food lovers!
- Light Up Ellijay (November-December) – A holiday event with Christmas lights, carol singing, and festive decorations.
If you visit during festival season, be sure to plan ahead, as hotels and cabins book up fast!
Explore Waterfalls & Hidden Natural Wonders
Ellijay is home to stunning waterfalls and hidden nature spots that make for a perfect day trip. Whether you love hiking or just want to relax in nature, these spots are worth visiting.
Top Waterfalls Near Ellijay:
- Amicalola Falls – The tallest waterfall in Georgia, perfect for a scenic hike.
- Fall Branch Falls – A short hike leads to a beautiful cascading waterfall.
- Long Creek Falls – A peaceful hidden gem located along the Appalachian Trail.
These waterfalls are great places to take photos, have a picnic, or simply enjoy the beauty of nature.
Go Horseback Riding in the Mountains
One of the best ways to experience Ellijay’s beautiful landscapes is on horseback. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider, there are plenty of trails to explore.
Best Horseback Riding Tours:
- Cohutta Stables – Offers guided horseback tours through mountain trails.
- Fort Mountain Stables – A great option for families with kids.
- Adventure Trail Rides – Enjoy scenic rides along rivers, forests, and valleys.
Riding a horse through the mountains is a peaceful and fun way to see Ellijay’s natural beauty.
Conclusion
Ellijay, GA, is a perfect place for a fun and relaxing trip. Whether you love hiking, apple picking, or wine tasting, this small town has something for everyone. The beautiful mountains, fresh air, and friendly people make it a great escape from busy city life.
No matter when you visit, you will find many exciting things to do in Ellijay, GA. From waterfalls to antique shops, there is always something new to explore. Plan your trip, pack your bags, and get ready to make wonderful memories in this charming town!
FAQs
Q: What is the best time to visit Ellijay, GA?
A: Fall is the best time to visit, especially in September to November, when the leaves change color, and the apple orchards are open.
Q: How far is Ellijay from Atlanta?
A: Ellijay is about 80 miles north of Atlanta, which takes around 1.5 hours by car.
Q: What are the top outdoor activities in Ellijay?
A: You can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, apple picking, kayaking, and fishing in Ellijay.
Q: Are there any good wineries in Ellijay?
A: Yes! Some of the best wineries include Fainting Goat Vineyards, Engelheim Vineyards, and Chateau Meichtry.
Q: Is Ellijay good for a family trip?
A: Yes! Families can enjoy apple orchards, petting zoos, festivals, waterfalls, and fun outdoor activities together.
