Blue Ridge, GA, is a picturesque town renowned for its mountain vistas, outdoor activities, and charming downtown, making it a perfect destination for anyone seeking a mix of adventure and relaxation. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or a longer stay, Blue Ridge offers a variety of activities that cater to all interests. This guide will explore the top five things to do in Blue Ridge, GA, to help you make the most of your visit to this scenic destination.
1. Ride the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway
One of the most iconic experiences in Blue Ridge is the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway. This historic train ride offers a unique way to explore the surroundings of North Georgia. Departing from the 1905 train depot in downtown Blue Ridge, the train winds its way along the Toccoa River, offering passengers views of the Appalachian foothills.
The journey is a four-hour round trip, including a two-hour stop in the twin border towns of McCaysville, Georgia, and Copperhill, Tennessee. Here, visitors can explore quaint shops, enjoy a meal at a local restaurant, or simply take in the scenic views of the river. The train operates year-round, with special seasonal rides such as the Fall Foliage and Christmas Express, making it a fantastic activity for families, couples, and solo travelers.
The Blue Ridge Scenic Railway offers a relaxing way to explore the area's natural beauty and history. Whether you're a train enthusiast or just looking for a unique experience, this ride is a must-do in Blue Ridge.
The journey is a four-hour round trip, including a two-hour stop in the twin border towns of McCaysville, Georgia, and Copperhill, Tennessee. Here, visitors can explore quaint shops, enjoy a meal at a local restaurant, or simply take in the scenic views of the river. The train operates year-round, with special seasonal rides such as the Fall Foliage and Christmas Express, making it a fantastic activity for families, couples, and solo travelers.
The Blue Ridge Scenic Railway offers a relaxing way to explore the area's natural beauty and history. Whether you're a train enthusiast or just looking for a unique experience, this ride is a must-do in Blue Ridge.
2. Explore the Great Outdoors at Mercier Orchards
Mercier Orchards is a beloved family-owned orchard that has been a staple in Blue Ridge since 1943. Spanning over 300 acres, it is known for its pick-your-own experiences, allowing visitors to gather their own apples, strawberries, blueberries, and more, depending on the season.
In addition to fruit picking, the orchard offers tractor tours that provide a behind-the-scenes look at the orchard’s operations and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. After a day of picking, you can visit the market, which has plenty of fresh produce, homemade goods, and unique gifts. Don’t miss out on trying their famous fried pies or grabbing a bottle of their hard cider made on-site.
Mercier Orchards also hosts a variety of seasonal events, including tastings, workshops, and festivals, making it a lively destination for all ages. It’s the perfect spot to relax, enjoy the fresh mountain air, and savor the simple pleasures of farm life.
In addition to fruit picking, the orchard offers tractor tours that provide a behind-the-scenes look at the orchard’s operations and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. After a day of picking, you can visit the market, which has plenty of fresh produce, homemade goods, and unique gifts. Don’t miss out on trying their famous fried pies or grabbing a bottle of their hard cider made on-site.
Mercier Orchards also hosts a variety of seasonal events, including tastings, workshops, and festivals, making it a lively destination for all ages. It’s the perfect spot to relax, enjoy the fresh mountain air, and savor the simple pleasures of farm life.
3. Find Thrills at Blue Ridge Adventure Park
For thrill-seekers and adventure enthusiasts, Blue Ridge Adventure Park is a must-visit destination that offers an exciting challenge. This aerial adventure park features a series of obstacle courses set high in the trees, including suspended bridges, tightropes, swinging logs, and zip lines. With courses designed for different skill levels, from beginner to advanced, the park caters to visitors of all ages and abilities.
The park offers three levels of difficulty, each progressively higher and more challenging, allowing participants to choose a course that matches their comfort level. Safety is a top priority, with trained staff providing a full safety briefing and equipment like harnesses and helmets to ensure a secure experience. The park is not just about testing your physical limits; it's also about enjoying the beautiful forest setting and having fun with family and friends.
Whether you’re looking to push your boundaries or just want a fun way to spend an afternoon outdoors, Blue Ridge Adventure Park offers a unique experience that combines physical activity with the thrill of being up in the trees. It’s a great way to get active, build confidence, and enjoy the natural surroundings of Blue Ridge in a new and adventurous way.
The park offers three levels of difficulty, each progressively higher and more challenging, allowing participants to choose a course that matches their comfort level. Safety is a top priority, with trained staff providing a full safety briefing and equipment like harnesses and helmets to ensure a secure experience. The park is not just about testing your physical limits; it's also about enjoying the beautiful forest setting and having fun with family and friends.
Whether you’re looking to push your boundaries or just want a fun way to spend an afternoon outdoors, Blue Ridge Adventure Park offers a unique experience that combines physical activity with the thrill of being up in the trees. It’s a great way to get active, build confidence, and enjoy the natural surroundings of Blue Ridge in a new and adventurous way.
4. Discover Local Art at the Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association
For those interested in the arts, the Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association (BRMAA) is a must-visit. Located in the Historic Fannin County Courthouse in downtown Blue Ridge, the BRMAA showcases the works of local artists and offers a wide range of exhibits, workshops, and events throughout the year.
The Art Center is home to several galleries, including the Richard Low Evans Gallery, which features rotating exhibits of fine art, photography, pottery, and more. The center also offers art classes and workshops for all ages, making it a great place to unleash your creativity or learn a new skill.
One of the highlights of the BRMAA is the Arts in the Park festival, held twice a year. This event draws artists and visitors from all over the region and features various artwork, live music, food vendors, and fun activities. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or just looking for a unique way to spend an afternoon, the BRMAA offers a vibrant glimpse into the creative spirit of Blue Ridge.
The Art Center is home to several galleries, including the Richard Low Evans Gallery, which features rotating exhibits of fine art, photography, pottery, and more. The center also offers art classes and workshops for all ages, making it a great place to unleash your creativity or learn a new skill.
One of the highlights of the BRMAA is the Arts in the Park festival, held twice a year. This event draws artists and visitors from all over the region and features various artwork, live music, food vendors, and fun activities. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or just looking for a unique way to spend an afternoon, the BRMAA offers a vibrant glimpse into the creative spirit of Blue Ridge.
5. Indulge in Local Flavors at Downtown Blue Ridge
No visit to Blue Ridge would be complete without exploring its charming downtown area. Known for its vibrant dining scene, downtown Blue Ridge is packed with various restaurants, cafes, and breweries that cater to all tastes. From Southern comfort food to international cuisine, there’s something to satisfy every palate.
One of the best ways to experience the local flavors is to take a food tour, which will guide you through some of the town’s top eateries while providing insights into Blue Ridge’s culinary scene and history. Be sure to visit local favorites like Harvest on Main, which offers farm-to-table dishes in a cozy setting, or Chester Brunnenmeyer’s Bar and Grill, known for its hearty American fare and laid-back atmosphere.
In addition to dining, downtown Blue Ridge boasts an array of boutique shops, galleries, and specialty stores where you can find everything from handmade crafts to unique souvenirs. It’s the perfect place to spend a leisurely day strolling, shopping, and sampling the best of what Blue Ridge has to offer.
One of the best ways to experience the local flavors is to take a food tour, which will guide you through some of the town’s top eateries while providing insights into Blue Ridge’s culinary scene and history. Be sure to visit local favorites like Harvest on Main, which offers farm-to-table dishes in a cozy setting, or Chester Brunnenmeyer’s Bar and Grill, known for its hearty American fare and laid-back atmosphere.
In addition to dining, downtown Blue Ridge boasts an array of boutique shops, galleries, and specialty stores where you can find everything from handmade crafts to unique souvenirs. It’s the perfect place to spend a leisurely day strolling, shopping, and sampling the best of what Blue Ridge has to offer.
Finding Your Blue Ridge Adventure
Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventure, artistic inspiration, or simply a relaxing escape, there are plenty of things to do in Blue Ridge, GA. From the nostalgic charm of the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway to the adventures of Blue Ridge Adventure Park, this mountain town offers diverse activities that highlight the best of North Georgia. As you explore these top five things to do in Blue Ridge, GA, you’ll discover why this picturesque destination continues to captivate visitors year after year.
If you’re looking to buy or sell a home in Blue Ridge, connect with Christy Reece for an unparalleled real estate experience. With over two decades of experience in selling, constructing homes, and land development, Christy has a deep understanding of local market trends and real estate opportunities. Trust Christy to guide you through the Blue Ridge market with the expertise and connections that set her apart. Reach out today to start your journey with a true local expert!
If you’re looking to buy or sell a home in Blue Ridge, connect with Christy Reece for an unparalleled real estate experience. With over two decades of experience in selling, constructing homes, and land development, Christy has a deep understanding of local market trends and real estate opportunities. Trust Christy to guide you through the Blue Ridge market with the expertise and connections that set her apart. Reach out today to start your journey with a true local expert!
