Just above Florida rests a state robust with fall foliage, fun, and family adventures in Georgia. Fall family getaways in Georgia are popular with Tampa Bay area families who want to experience a world of autumnal fun not too far away from home.
1. Stone Mountain, Georgia
Stone Mountain, Georgia is home to Stone Mountain State Park which features camping, lodging, hiking and plenty of fall festivals and events. Fun for the whole family, Stone Mountain is full of all of the greatest things the great outdoors has to offer.
Pumpkin Festival
The Pumpkin Festival in Stone Mountain goes through October 31st, and it’s a celebration of all things autumn and Halloween. Families can journey around the mountains enjoying fall foliage on a locomotive, take in a pumpkin laser show, join a pie eating contest, and take a walk through classic stories with the magic of Glow by Night.
History And Nature Walks
Stone Mountain is also full of history and beautiful scenic walks to be taken in nature. Songbird trails for animal lovers, the historical and environmental center gives families a whole new appreciation of Stone Mountain, and daily concerts from the 732-bell Carillon are not to be missed.
2. Blue Ridge, Georgia
For families that want some of the most scenic and beautiful views Georgia has to offer, Blue Ridge is exactly what you’re looking for. Ripe with accommodations ranging from luxury to rustic, there’s a new experience to be had with each visit.
Blue Ridge Scenic Railway
Blue Ridge fully decked out in fall foliage is truly a sight to behold. You can see it all from the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway taking riders on a 26-mile round trip along the Toccoa River from downtown historic Blue Ridge. Layovers in town give families ample opportunity to explore local dining, shopping, and Blue Ridge life.
Huck’s Lost Mine
Huck’s Lost Mine lets the whole family bring home a little treasure right from the famed Blue Ridge Mountains. Families can buy buckets of earth from the Blue Ridge Mountains, which may contain rare earth gems like rubies and emeralds, as well as ancient fossils or a potential mix of the two. People of all ages can make memories cracking geodes, finding precious gems, and getting their hands on a little bit of Blue Ridge natural history.
3. Ellijay, Georgia
Ellijay, Georgia is a beautiful North Georgia mountain town with all of the scenic views, small town charm, and family friendly activities Tampa area families are looking for. The apple capital of Georgia, there is no better place to enjoy all of the joys of the Autumn season.
Expedition: Bigfoot!
Expedition: Bigfoot! is where imaginations can run wild! This Bigfoot-themed museum has on display artifacts, photos, and “evidence” of Bigfoot sightings in and around the Ellijay region. For skeptical families, this might just be the experience that makes the most fun memories.
Georgia Apple Festival
What better place to host the Georgia Apple Festival than the apple capital of the state? During the second and third weeks of October, Ellijay is home to the Georgia Apple Festival featuring over 300 different vendors on the Lions Club Fairgrounds. 2021 is their 50th anniversary after a canceled 2020 season and expected to be one of the biggest and best yet.
Amicalola Falls
For an outdoor adventure just about 30 minutes outside of Ellijay in Dawsonville there’s Amicalola Falls. This state park and lodge has a little bit of everything for the adventurous Tampa Bay area family, with zip lines, GPS scavenger hunts, archery, guided hikes, and birds of prey to delight family members of all ages. A hiker’s paradise, Amicalola Falls is an absolute must for enjoying Georgia’s great outdoors during fall.
4. Helen, Georgia
If you’re dreaming of Bavaria, you can have your own taste of authentic Bavarian living in Helen, Georgia. Located in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Helen is a place where time slows down and families can enjoy the simple things during a beautiful fall season.
The Heidelberg
The Heidelberg really transports you to the heart of Bavaria in Helen, Georgia. This Bavarian-style restaurant, pub, and music hall prides itself on authenticity and features a unique look that makes you feel as if you’re stepping through a fairytale.
Anna Ruby Falls
Anna Ruby Falls is accessible to families via a paved trail, and is located just outside of Helen near Hiawassee, Georgia. The paved trail loop is just under a mile long as it snakes around mossy boulders up to the beautiful two Anna Ruby Waterfalls. Its ease of getting there and location in the North Georgia mountains makes it one of the most popular waterfalls in the state.
Dahlonega
Situated about 40 minutes outside of Helen is an award-winning destination in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains. Dahlonega offers dining, shopping, wineries, tours, museums, and even seasonal festivals throughout the autumn season.
There’s Plenty To See In Georgia
With Autumn in full swing, getting away to see the sights is a great way to truly embrace the changing season. Stay in touch to learn more about making the most of your autumn away or at home.
