Located in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Georgia you will find a charming town called Blairsville. This small town has the cutest shops, some delicious restaurants, and everything an outdoor adventurer would love. From hiking trails, waterfalls, camping, to cabins with stunning mountain views. This travel guide will help you make the most of your trip to Blairsville, Georgia.
Travel Guide to Blairsville, Georgia
This beautiful town is located in Union County and has such a warm Southern charm to it. My family and I have been going to Blairsville for over 10 years and it never gets old. We always aim to visit Blairsville and the surrounding area at least once every year.
Even though Dahlonega is known as the first site of gold in the United States, Blairsville is actually known to have the purest gold in all of the mountains of northern Georgia. Gold panning is a popular activity to do in these areas and so much fun.
The Best Places to Stay in Blairsville, Georgia
Nestled in the scenic mountains of North Georgia, Blairsville is a charming town that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and Southern hospitality. Whether you’re seeking a cozy cabin retreat, a luxurious lodge, a quaint bed and breakfast, or adventurous camping trip, Blairsville has accommodations and options to suit every traveler’s needs. With its stunning landscapes, outdoor adventures, and rich local culture, this picturesque destination provides an ideal backdrop for relaxation and exploration. Let’s dive into the best places to stay in Blairsville, where comfort meets the great outdoors.
Stay at a Lodge
Want the feel of staying at a lodge in the mountains then you should stay at The Copperhead Lodge. This lodge offers food, stunning mountain views, and dining at The Flying Trout located on premises. This tranquil mountain getaway spot is perfect for couples and families. They also have cabin rental options as well.
Rent a Mountain Cabin
Mountain cabins are a perfect way to go on a relaxing getaway. You have all of the comforts and amenities of home with the coziness of nature and mountain life. Here are some cabins that you should check out and add to your list.
Go Camping in Blairsville
Camping is a great way to get deeper in the north Georgia mountains. It gives you a more personal and in depth experience with nature and usually is located close to hiking trails and other outdoorsy things to do for the entire family.
Vogel State Park is tucked away in the Chattahoochee National Forest at the base of Blood Mountain. It is one of the top state parks in Georgia providing families with hiking trails, a putt putt course, beautiful lake surrounded by mountains, and so much more. Best of all, it’s one of the best places to go to for camping. Many of the campsites are newly renovated and they are also spacious enough to have a comfortable and fun camping trip with your family. You can also rent a cabin here if you prefer to stay at a small cabin.
The Best Places to Eat and Drink in Blairsville, Georgia
Blairsville, Georgia, is not just a feast for the eyes with its stunning mountain views; it also offers a delightful culinary experience that showcases the flavors of the South. From hearty comfort food to unique local specialties, the town’s dining scene caters to every palate. Whether you’re in the mood for a cozy diner, a charming café, or an upscale restaurant, Blairsville’s diverse eateries invite you to savor fresh ingredients and warm hospitality. Let’s explore the best places to eat in Blairsville, where every meal is a celebration of community and flavor.
Breakfast and Coffee Shops
There’s nothing like a delicious breakfast to start your day off right. Below are some of the best spots for breakfast and your morning coffee.
Hole in the Wall
This is probably the number one spot in all of Blairsville for food. It’s well known and authentic dining experience has so much southern charm to it and the staff has always been so friendly and kind. The food is delicious especially their breakfast.
Note: They’re not super allergy-friendly but they do have several options on their menu to help accommodate some allergens. My son is dairy, peanut, and gluten free and we got him a side of meat like bacon or sausage, eggs (requested they be cooked with oil not butter), and some juice.
Cabin Coffee Co.
Looking for a delicious cup of coffee? Then you have to stop at Cabin Coffee Co. They have all sorts of coffee options in their coffee shop and even dairy-free and vegan alternatives. They also have some baked goods as well and other food items.
Blairsville Restaurants – Lunch and Dinner
The Aviator Cafe
The Aviator Cafe has such a cool and unique aviation-theme in their restaurant. They serve fresh salads, sandwiches, burgers, wraps, and daily specials. You can also enjoy a delicious coffee or smoothie.
Note: They are vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free friendly.
Vincent’s Coppertop Restaurant and Pub
We had the opportunity to eat here and we absolutely enjoyed it. They have a good variety of foods from burgers, flatbreads, pastas, fish, and more. We had the Tortellini Alfredo and it was so good. They also have a full-service bar that offers an impressive selection of beers, wines, and cocktails,
Note: They had a chef that came out to help accommodate any food allergies.
Cooks Country Kitchen
This charming, family-owned diner is known for its Southern cooking. The menu features classic comfort food such as fried chicken, country-style steaks, meatloaf, and hearty breakfast options like biscuits and gravy.
Sawmill Place (The serve breakfast too!)
This popular, casual restaurant offers a mix of Southern comfort food and classic American dishes. Known for its cozy, rustic atmosphere, the menu features a variety of hearty options, including juicy steaks, fried catfish, pork chops, and flavorful burgers. Breakfast is delicious too serving dishes like pancakes, omelets, and country ham.
Sicily’s – Pizza, Pasta, and Subs
Sicily’s Pizza, Pasta, and Subs offers a delicious variety of Italian-American comfort foods in a casual and family-friendly setting. The menu includes hand-tossed pizzas with fresh toppings, classic pasta dishes like lasagna and spaghetti, and delicious subs filled with quality meats and cheeses.
Sweet Pea’s Downtown Eatery (They serve breakfast too!)
Sweet Peas Downtown Eatery is a charming café that offers a mix of Southern-inspired dishes and comfort food. Known for its fresh, homemade meals, the menu includes a variety of options such as sandwiches, salads, and country-style dishes like fried chicken and meatloaf. Breakfast is also outstanding, with specialties like omelets and cinnamon rolls.
Sweets and Treats
Sweets and Treats is a delightful bakery and dessert shop offering a wide variety of homemade sweets. From freshly baked cakes, cookies, and cupcakes to pies and fudge, you are sure to find something to satisfy your sweet tooth. This bakery is perfect for stopping by for a quick treat or for a special custom cake.
The Tin Roof Country Store and Creamery
The Tin Roof Country Store and Creamery is a charming country store and an old-fashioned ice cream shop. They offer a wide selection of homemade ice cream flavors. The country store features a variety of unique gifts, local goods, and pantry staples. They also have dairy-free options and provide an allergy-friendly menu to help you pick the perfect ice cream for you.
The Sweet Spot Co.
The Sweet Spot Co. is a cozy bakery and dessert shop known for its selection of freshly baked treats. Offering everything from cupcakes and cookies to cakes and pies, you are sure to find the perfect sweet treat for you.
Wineries and Distilleries
There’s several wineries and distilleries for you to check out in Blairsville and the surrounding areas as well. Here are some of the top rated ones in the area.
Living Water Winery & Vineyard
Living Water Winery & Vineyard is a stunning winery in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The winery produces a variety of handcrafted reds, whites, and fruit wines using locally sourced grapes and fruit. Guests can enjoy wine tastings with stunning vineyard views, and the tasting room provides a cozy space to relax and enjoy the wines.
Odom Springs Vineyards
Odom Springs Vineyards is a family-owned winery nestled in the scenic mountains of North Georgia. The vineyard focuses on producing small-batch, handcrafted wines from locally grown grapes. Guests can enjoy a variety of wines, including reds, whites, and blends, while taking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. The winery often hosts events, live music, and tastings, making it a great place to relax and unwind.
Grandaddy Mimm’s Distilling Co.
Grandaddy Mimm’s Distilling Co. is a family-owned craft distillery producing a variety of products, including whiskey, flavored moonshines, Vodka, Sorghum Rum, and beer. The distillery is named after the legendary “Grandaddy Mimm,” a local figure known for his moonshining history. Visitors can enjoy tours of the facility, learn about the distillation process, and sample drinks.
Blairsville Brewing Co.
Blairsville Brewing Company is a more modern brewery offering a selection of craft beers brewed on-site. The brewery features a rotating lineup of beers, including IPAs, stouts, lagers, and seasonal brews. With its cozy taproom, friendly atmosphere, and outdoor seating area, Blairsville Brewing Company is a popular spot for locals and visitors to relax, sample a variety of beers, and enjoy live music or events. We ended up getting four beers to take back to the cabin to enjoy.
The Best Things To Do in Blairsville, Georgia
Blairsville has so much to offer from hiking trails, cute shops, delicious food and more. There is fun for everyone. Best of all, there is an outdoor adventure a short drive away from downtown. Here are some of the best things to do in Blairsville, Georgia that are perfect for anyone visiting this charming southern town.
Shop and Walk Around Downtown Blairsville, GA
Downtown Blairsville has many cute shops where they sell locally made goods and clothing. It’s a perfect way to get a feel for the town while also supporting the locals. I would start at at Cabin Coffee to grab yourself a cup of coffee and make your way through the different shops around town.
Explore Lake Nottely
Lake Nottely is a perfect spot to go relax by the lake. You can either rent a boat, do different water sports, hike around the lake, or just enjoy a swim and picnic by the lake. The views are beautiful here too.
Visit Sunrise Grocery
Sunrise Grocery is such a cute local store that you can’t miss. They have the cutest handmade items, food, honey, jams and jellies, and even local art. Best of all, they have their famous Boiled Peanuts!
Golfing at Butternut Creek Golf Course
Golfing at Butternut Creek Golf Course is nestled in the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains, this 18-hole, par-72 course offers golfers of all skill levels a challenging yet enjoyable experience. With its lush fairways, rolling hills, and beautiful mountain views, Butternut Creek has a peaceful setting for a round of golf.
Shop at Mountain Crossings
If you are an outdoorsy person then you have to check out Mountain Crossings. They sell cute clothing, hiking, backpacking, and camping gear, souvenirs, and much more. They also have some beautiful views of the Appalachian mountains. You may even come across a hiker on the Appalachian trail.
Go River Tubing
River tubing in Blairsville, Georgia, is a thrilling way to enjoy the area’s natural beauty. The Toccoa River is a popular spot for tubing what has calm waters and is surrounded by lush forests and stunning mountain views. Several local outfitters, like Blue Ridge Tubing, provide rentals and shuttle services, making it easy to float down the river and relax.
Hiking Around Blairsville, Georgia
Blairsville, Georgia, offers several family-friendly hiking trails that allow you to enjoy the stunning natural beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains at a more leisurely pace. Some of the best easy trails for families include:
- Vogel State Park Trail – A gentle, scenic trail that takes you around Lake Trahlyta with views of waterfalls and wildlife.
- Helton Creek Falls Trail – A short, easy hike that leads to two beautiful waterfalls, perfect for a family outing.
- Sosebee Cove Trail – A relaxing, paved trail through a forested area with interpretive signs about local plants and wildlife.
- Lake Winfield Scott Trail – A peaceful, flat loop around the lake, ideal for a leisurely walk with stunning mountain views.
- Trahlyta Falls Trail – A brief, easy trail leading to the impressive Trahlyta Falls, great for kids and beginners.
Visiting Vogel State Park
Vogel State Park is a fantastic spot for a fun day in the great outdoors! Whether you’re into camping, hiking, fishing, or just relaxing by the beautiful Lake Trahlyta, this park has something for everyone. With stunning mountain views, easy hiking trails, and plenty of space for picnicking and camping, it’s the perfect place to enjoy nature with family and friends.
Attend a Local Festival
You can also check and see if there is a local festival going on for you to attend. Blairsville has a variety of local festivals throughout the year that will make it worth the visit.
Blairsville, Georgia, is home to several vibrant festivals throughout the year that celebrate its rich culture and stunning mountain setting. Here are a few must-visit festivals:
- Mountain Heritage Festival (September)
Held every September, this festival celebrates the Appalachian culture with live music, traditional craft vendors, delicious local food, and family-friendly activities. It’s a great opportunity to experience Blairsville’s roots while enjoying the beautiful fall scenery. - Blairsville Scottish Festival & Highland Games (June)
Around June event brings the Scottish heritage to life with traditional Highland Games, including caber tossing and tug-of-war, along with Scottish dancing, music, and food. It’s a fantastic way to celebrate Blairsville’s Scottish ties in a lively and festive atmosphere. - Toccoa River Swing Bridge Festival (April)
Taking place in April, this festival celebrates Blairsville’s rich history and the iconic Toccoa River Swing Bridge. The event features live music, local artisans, and fun activities for the whole family, all set along the scenic Toccoa River. - Bluegrass Festival (May)
Held each May, the Bluegrass Festival is a music lover’s dream, featuring performances by top bluegrass bands from across the region. Visitors can enjoy toe-tapping tunes, local food vendors, and a laid-back atmosphere with stunning mountain views. - Christmas in Blairsville (December)
This holiday celebration in December is filled with festive cheer, featuring a Christmas parade, light displays, and visits with Santa. It’s a perfect way to get into the holiday spirit while enjoying the town’s charming, small-town atmosphere.
Visit Pappy’s Plaza aka Pappy’s Trading Post
Pappy’s Plaza, also known as Pappy’s Trading Post, is a fun and unique stop in Blairsville, perfect for those looking to explore local shops and discover hidden gems. This cute rustic plaza offers a variety of stores, from quirky gift shops to ice cream and snacks, making it a great place to pick up souvenirs or find something special for your mountain adventure. With its friendly atmosphere and local flair, Pappy’s Plaza is a must-see spot for visitors of all ages!
Other Things To Do Near Blairsville, Georgia
While Blairsville, Georgia has plenty to do, you can also find more adventures just a short drive away. From a cute Bavarian-themed town to the highest peak of Georgia, here are a few other great things to do near Blairsville:
Visit Helen, Georgia – A Bavarian-themed village just a short drive from Blairsville, Helen is known for its unique shops, German-style restaurants, and outdoor activities like tubing on the Chattahoochee River.
Visit Blue Ridge, Georgia – Just a short drive away, this charming town offers scenic train rides on the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway, shopping, and great dining options.
Explore Brasstown Bald – Head to Georgia’s highest peak for stunning panoramic views, a visitor center, and easy access to hiking trails.
Take a Scenic Drive on the Georgia Mountain Parkway – Enjoy beautiful mountain views, especially in the fall, as you explore this scenic route through the Appalachian foothills.
Go Horseback Riding at TrackRock Stables – Experience the beauty of the North Georgia mountains on horseback with guided tours through scenic trails.
Visiting Blairsville in the North Georgia Mountains
Blairsville, Georgia, is the ultimate adventure spot in North Georgia, packed with adventure, charm, and stunning mountain views! From fun outdoor activities like hiking, tubing, and exploring scenic trails, to experiencing the local culture at fun festivals and local shops, there’s never a dull moment here. Whether you’re a nature lover or just looking to unwind in a mountain setting, Blairsville has something for everyone.
One Response
This ultimate guide to Blairsville is such a gem! I love how it highlights the natural beauty of the area, especially the waterfalls and hiking trails. It’s definitely inspiring me to plan a visit and explore the charm of North Georgia. Thanks for such a well-rounded guide!