As we close out 2024 we wanted to take a moment to thank you for all your love and support this year! Thank you for choosing us as your home base for all your Blue Ridge adventures and trusting us to care for your friends and family time & time again! Now it’s time to start planning for next year… Here’s 25 Awesome Things to Do in Blue Ridge during your 2025 Escapes! *Cover Photo Courtesy from @korikwissman
*Photo Courtesy of Patricia Holt
Blue Ridge is the place to be for amazing hiking opportunities! With over 300 miles of trails to explore, the options are endless. Some of our favorites include the Benton McKaye Trail, the Aska Adventure Area trails, and the trails at Fightingtown Creek Nature Park. Take in breathtaking views at waterfalls like Fall Branch Falls and Amicalola Falls, or reach new heights at Springer Mountain and Fort Mountain. And don’t miss one of our favorite hidden gems, The Toccoa Swinging Bridge, which is the longest swinging bridge east of the Mississippi! Learn more about our area trails at our hiking blog: https://www.escapetoblueridge.com/blog/8-blue-ridge-hiking-trails
Dive into the excitement of whitewater rafting on the Ocoee River! Navigate waves and rapids alongside your team on an exhilarating adventure that’s as much of a workout as it is unforgettable fun. North Georgia and Tennessee (just minutes from Blue Ridge) are famous for their thrilling whitewater rafting courses. Fun fact: the 1996 Atlanta Olympics even held their whitewater events on the upper Ocoee River in Tennessee—how cool is that? While navigating rapids is an exhilarating experience, you’ll need a skilled guide unless you’re a pro. Luckily, plenty of our experienced teams are ready to ensure your adventure is both fun and safe!
One of our guests’ all-time favorite activities in Blue Ridge is riding the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway! Take in stunning views of the countryside as the train departs from Downtown Blue Ridge, traveling through to the twin cities of Copperhill, TN, and McCaysville, GA. The scenery is beautiful year-round, but we especially love the fall when the leaves are changing. And if you want to be out in the great outdoors while still enjoying a scenic ride, why not try one of their railbikes! These custom-built, four-person, electric & motor-assisted railbikes will take you through the foothills of Blue Ridge on a 11 mile round-trip past mountain streams, beautiful vineyards, and lush forests. You can embark on either one of these wonderful experiences from March-December.
Mercier Orchards has fresh, delicious fruit ready for picking all year long! From apples and blueberries to strawberries, peaches, blackberries, and more, there’s always something sweet in season. And while you’re there don’t forget to try Mercier’s famous fried pies—a must-have treat! Beyond picking fruit and savoring tasty treats, you can sample hard cider and wine, explore the market, take a farm tour, and enjoy plenty of family-friendly fun at this beloved Blue Ridge orchard!
We know that sharing meals with family and friends, trying new flavors, and enjoying the local cuisine is the key to a memorable vacation! And lucky for you there’s always something new and delicious to eat in Blue Ridge! To ensure you never run out of fantastic dining options, here are some of our favorite local restaurants to check out: https://www.escapetoblueridge.com/blog/favorite-blue-ridge-restaurants
Explore Downtown Blue Ridge’s charming shopping scene! You’ll find an eclectic mix of unique stores offering antiques, art, handmade goods, clothing, outdoor gear, and much more. It’s the perfect spot to pick up a souvenir (or a few!) from your Escape to Blue Ridge! And with so many amazing shops to choose from, the only question is, where will you start? We’ll help guide you with our list of favorite shops in Downtown Blue Ridge: https://www.escapetoblueridge.com/blog/shop-downtown-blue-ridge
Capture the perfect family photo to remember your trip to Blue Ridge, by visiting one of our unique and iconic murals! Downtown Blue Ridge offers a variety of fun murals and selfie opportunities, including the Blue Ridge Mural, the Blue Ridge Bears, the Coca-Cola Mural, and many more! See if you can find them all!
One of the many reasons we adore Blue Ridge is because of its incredible dog-friendly atmosphere! From scenic trails to welcoming shops and restaurants, your furry friends have ample opportunities to join in the fun. Plus, over 100 of our Escape to Blue Ridge cabins are pet-friendly, ensuring your pup feels right at home. And in Downtown Blue Ridge you’ll find the coolest place to spend an afternoon with your pup- Blue Ridge Adventure Dog! This fenced in dog park & shop is a blast for dogs of all shapes & sizes! They can play fetch back and forth, go for a dip in the doggie swimming pool, and even snack on a barkcuterie board. And dog owners can enjoy beers, snacks, and ice pops while they watch their dog play. Dog lovers and their four-legged best friends will just love it here! For the best places to eat, play, and stay with your four-legged best friend in Blue Ridge check out our blog: https://www.escapetoblueridge.com/blog/dog-lovers-getaway-must-love-dogs
Ever dream of being in two places at once? Well now you can! Visit the twin cities of McCaysville, Georgia, and Copperhill, Tennessee, where the GA/TN state line runs right through town. Stand on the state line, in two states at once, and then enjoy exploring the charming shops and restaurants of the Copper Basin. Learn more about the twin cities here: https://www.escapetoblueridge.com/blog/fun-on-the-state-line
Raise a glass to the new year with a drink from Blue Ridge! This charming town offers a fantastic variety of bars, breweries, and wineries to explore. For local brews visit Grumpy Old Men Brewing, Angry Hops Brewing, Buck Bald Brewing, Copperhill Brewery, or Tipping Point Brewing. Wine enthusiasts can enjoy tastings at Bear Claw Vineyards, Serenberry Vineyards, and Cartecay Vineyards. Even Mercier Orchards offers hard cider and wine! With so many amazing spots to toast to the season, you’ll be “buzzing” into the new year in style!
Experience a movie night with a bit of nostalgia at the Swan Drive-In Theater! A beloved Blue Ridge landmark since 1955, the Swan Drive-In continues to delight visitors to this day. Enjoy some of your favorite classics on the big screen or one of the latest blockbuster hits! They even have special holiday movie showings during Halloween and Christmas so you can experience all your favorite films on the Drive In screen. The Swan Drive In is always a fun and memorable way to spend an evening!
Lake Blue Ridge is your home base for summer adventures on the water! Rent a boat from Lake Blue Ridge Marina and spend the day cruising the serene waters. Or head to Morganton Point, where you can enjoy a cool refreshing swim in the lake. At Morganton Point you can also enjoy building sandcastles, picnicking in the designated picnic areas, fishing, or hiking along the scenic lakeside trails. And if you’re visiting for the 4th of July, don’t miss the breathtaking annual fireworks display over Lake Blue Ridge!
Did you know that Bigfoot roams the forests of Blue Ridge? Learn all about him at EXPEDITION: BIGFOOT! The Sasquatch Museum, located just east of the city. Explore fascinating artifacts, life-sized exhibits, photos and maps of Bigfoot sightings, the Bigfoot research and Tech Vehicle, and much more. This is a fun and one-of-a-kind museum that’s perfect for an afternoon adventure!
Saddle up and explore the mountain trails of the Chattahoochee National Forest on horseback! There’s nothing quite like the soothing rhythm of a horse’s gait, the sounds of nature surrounding you, and the chance to create unforgettable memories with your loved ones. Blue Ridge is home to several fantastic stables offering trail rides for every member of your party, from complete beginners to seasoned riders. Learn more about our local stables here: https://www.escapetoblueridge.com/blog/horseback-riding-in-blue-ridge
Become a pinball wizard at Vertigo Pinball! No need for coins or tokens—just grab a wristband, and you can play to your heart's content. Vertigo Pinball features a wide array of exciting themed machines, including Star Wars, Marvel, The Addams Family, KISS, Rush, and more! Be sure to grab a smash burger or grilled cheese from the bar and pair it with a refreshing pint of beer. Vertigo Pinball offers a fun, nostalgic experience where parents can relive their favorite childhood games, and kids can discover the joy of pinball for the first time!
Fishing enthusiasts won’t want to miss a trout fishing adventure in Blue Ridge, Georgia: the Trout Capital of Georgia! The Toccoa River is teeming with fish, offering excellent opportunities to reel in a prized trophy trout. But if you’re in need of a little guidance we have many local experts who are happy to help! A trip to Blue Ridge simply isn’t complete without casting a line on the Toccoa!
Indulge in a day of relaxation and rejuvenation at Serenity in the Mountains Spa. Whether you’re with friends or just treating yourself, you can enjoy a range of luxurious services, including mani/pedis, massages, facials, body treatments, and the unique experience of the Himalayan Salt Cave. And don’t forget to pair it all with one of their famous elixirs, a charcuterie board, and chocolate-covered strawberries. Get your relaxation on at Serenity in the Mountains!
Who doesn’t love a good game of mini golf—especially on vacation? Bring the family to 2nd Story Entertainment for a round of mini golf like no other! Play through eight uniquely themed rooms for a fun and exciting challenge! But the fun doesn’t stop there—you’ll also find giant board games like Connect Four and Checkers, magnetic dart boards, and a wall maze. Don’t forget to explore their arcade games and snack options too! 2nd Story Entertainment truly is the perfect place for family fun!
Let Blue Ridge Helicopter Tours take you to new heights! Sit back and enjoy the ride as you soar above the breathtaking Blue Ridge Mountains, taking in stunning scenic views and experiencing the town from an entirely new perspective. Blue Ridge Helicopter Tours offers dozens of different tours from 8 mins to 90 mins long, so you can easily customize the trip for you and all your guests.
Dive into a relaxing summer adventure with a leisurely float down the Toccoa River! Picture yourself drifting with friends, the warm sun on your face, and the gentle current carrying you along calm, scenic waters. Sounds like a dream, right? Luckily, Blue Ridge offers plenty of opportunities to make it happen! Learn more at our Summer Outdoor Adventures Blog: https://www.escapetoblueridge.com/blog/9-summer-outdoor-adventures.
Hosting a get together at the cabin? Hire local chefs like Chef Trey, Blue Duck Eats, or Fine Dining Chefs for an unforgettable culinary experience. These talented chefs will come to your cabin, craft a personalized meal tailored to your tastes and dietary preferences, and they’ll even handle the cleanup! What’s even more surprising is that this 5-star experience is more affordable than you might expect. Seriously, it’s a great deal! For your next Escape to Blue Ridge, we highly recommend considering one of these exceptional chefs. Learn more about hiring one of these amazing private chefs at our Ultimate Meal blog: https://www.escapetoblueridge.com/blog/the-ultimate-meal
Ready to conquer the highest peak in Georgia? Brasstown Bald, located near Blairsville, stands an impressive 4,784 feet above sea level, offering breathtaking views and the chance to see four different states at once! The hike to the top is a short but steep 1.1-mile trail—an uphill challenge that rewards you with unparalleled scenery. Or you can take the shuttle, available Thursday through Monday from spring to fall. Sit back, relax, and take in the scenic ride to the summit! From the observation deck at the top, you’ll be treated to stunning 360-degree views of the vibrant Southern Appalachian Mountains and valleys, all nestled within the Chattahoochee Oconee National Forest.
Experience Blue Ridge’s vibrant arts scene and what makes it one of Georgia’s Top 5 Art Towns! With a variety of art galleries and shops to explore, there’s always something new and exciting to discover. From breathtaking paintings by local artists to unique pottery and handmade quilts, you’re sure to find a piece that speaks to you. Check out some of our favorite local art galleries and experience the creative heart of Blue Ridge: https://www.escapetoblueridge.com/blog/the-blue-ridge-art-scene
Blue Ridge is always buzzing with fun and exciting events! Whether it's a holiday celebration or one of our annual festivals, there's always something fun happening. Some of our favorite annual events include the Fire & Ice Chili Cookoff, Arts in the Park, the Blue Ridge Blues & BBQ Festival, and Light Up Blue Ridge. Plan to visit Blue Ridge during one of these great annual events!
Book a cozy cabin with us! At Escape to Blue Ridge Cabin Rentals you’ll find hundreds of cabin options varying in size, style, and location. You’ll also find that our cabins have luxurious amenities like hot tubs, game rooms, firepits, and stunning views. So you can be sure that every member of your party will enjoy their stay. And no matter the season, we’re here to be your home base for all your Blue Ridge adventures! Visit us in winter to enjoy the snow, in the spring to witness the beauty of nature come alive, in the summer to explore the waters of Lake Blue Ridge, or in fall to marvel at the vibrant changing leaves. We’re honored to be your home away from home and deeply appreciate your continued support over the years. Here’s to creating unforgettable mountain vacations together in the New Year! We can’t wait to welcome you to Blue Ridge in 2025!
