by Carly

Now that summer is winding down, a lot of us are coming off the high that is vacation. Many have spent at least one week frolicking in various locales throughout the world – some have stuck with the traditional beach trip while others have branched out to more exotic locales.

So what’s to look forward to now? The holidays aren’t for another few months, and your vacation time is most likely all used up. Are you doomed to a fall of no fun?

Certainly not. As a country girl who grew up in the beautiful foothills of the North Georgia mountains, let me tell you just how many opportunities there are for fun just a short drive up the road.

Tallulah Gorge
Granted, I’ve only been here once, but if you’re bemoaning the fact that you’ve never been to the Grand Canyon, this should be a good replacement. It’s like the artificial sweetener for big holes in the ground.

Helen
This is one of the most fun little towns in Georgia. If the poor economy is curbing your European travel plans, Helen will take you all the way to Germany (especially if you go during the much talked about Oktoberfest!) And stop by Baby Land, the official hospital for all Cabbage Patch Kids.

Dillard House (Dillard, GA)
This is my favorite vacation destination. Rent a hotel room, chalet or cottage and spend the night at this gem nestled near Clayton in Rabun County. Go horseback riding, kayaking, hiking, shopping, fishing, or just enjoy a day sitting on the back porch. No matter what you do, be sure to eat an authentic country dinner at the world-famous Dillard House restaurant.

Apple Festival (Ellijay, GA)
I couldn’t write this blog without giving a shout-out to my hometown’s pride and joy – the annual Apple Festival. This event, held the second and third weekends in October, draws crowds from all over the United States and even Europe. When you’re finished at the Apple Festival, you can go visit one (or many) of the several apple houses that are lined up and down the roads, many on Hwy. 52 east.

Harvest Fest (Blue Ridge, GA)
While I’ll always be loyal to the Apple Festival, my favorite fall festival is the Harvest Festival held in Blue Ridge. It’s way smaller than the Apple Festival, but parking is free and it’s not as crowded, allowing for a more leisurely experience. Downtown Blue Ridge has really blossomed over the past couple of years, so when you’re finished at the Harvest Fest, you can meander down the road to peruse through specialty shops and enjoy a meal at one of the local restaurants

Burt’s Pumpkin Farm
Pick out your pumpkin for Halloween this year on this working farm! And you have to get on the hayride to see a breathtaking view of Amicalola Falls. And speaking of …

Amicalola Falls
This is my last place on my favorite places in North Georgia. If you love being outdoors in any capacity, you’ll love Amicalola Falls State Park, the entryway for many as they embark on the famous Appalachian Trail. Hike, fish, look in on their snake exhibit, and visit the Amicalola Falls Lodge for a meal and to look through the gift shop.

That’s certainly not even an extensive list of my favorite places in north Georgia, but this are always on my ‘must-visit’ list as the weather cools down. Now print this off and get to exploring … there’s plenty of fun to be had as you leave your summer vacations behind and get ready for the holidays!

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Categories: carly, georgia