Posted by: blueridgecabinrentals | December 14, 2012

CELEBRATE A NEW YEAR- JANUARY 2013 EVENTS IN HELEN, GA

If you are staying in Helen or the surrounding areas for New Year’s Eve 2102, you are probably wondering where to have breakfast on New Year’s Day.  You can always whip up a leisurely brunch in your fully equipped cabin or condo, or you can dine at one of many fine restaurants in downtown Helen.

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The Meeting Place is right on Main Street (across from Jolly’s Toys and near Betty’s Country Store), and though it is fairly new, locals and tourists alike have been raving about their home-cooked meals featuring fresh ingredients.  They serve breakfast all day, so if you are craving Eggs Benedict or a Three Egg Omlette, this is the place to be!

Helen’s Country Café, at the North end of town (also on Main St.) also serves up country-style breakfast and lunches; and Hofer’s Bakery serves a German-style breakfast, with lots of delicious goodies in their bakery case.  If you prefer a buffet, The Lodge at Unicoi in Unicoi State Park has a restaurant that serves a great buffet where you can eat all you want.  For a more complete list of restaurants open on New Year’s Day, click here.   helen 089

January is usually a quiet, snuggle-by-the-fireplace kind of month, but there are still lots of activities going on in Helen.  On Saturday and Sunday the weekend of January 12 & 13, there is a concert at the Sautee Nacoochee Community Association in Sautee (near Helen).  Dede Vogt ( who has played with the Indigo Girls, among others) will be performing. She is responsible for helping to nurture the Atlanta music scene and has led the way for folk musicians for quite some time.  As a multi-talented instrumentalist, her wide range of influences and provocative style help to create magic in the studio and on stage.  The Saturday evening concert begins at 7:30PM, and the Sunday concert begins at 2PM.  For more information and tickets contact the SNCA at   706-878-3300    or visit http://www.snca.org

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On Saturday, January 19th, the 34th Annual 18K Hogpen Hill Climb race will be held to benefit Habitat for Humanity.  This popular race is held in scenic Unicoi State Park.  If you like to run and want to help a great cause in a beautiful setting, check their website for more information.

On Saturday, January 26th, Sautee Nacoochee Vineyards will host the Winter Wino Festival at their Tasting Room.  Bring friends and come celebrate!  Live music, cash wine bar, and prize awarded for best costume.  Refreshments and non-alcoholic beverages provided.  706-878-1056, www.sauteenacoocheevineyards.com.

sauteevineyard

On that weekend, you can also learn to Contra dance at the Sautee Nacoochee Community Association on Saturday, January 26th.  There is a potluck dinner at 6:30, dance lesson at 7:30.  It’s sort of a cross between square dancing and line dancing, and proponents say it is a lot of fun!  For more info please click here for the SNCA website.

The North Georgia Mountains are a great place to get away year-round.  For more info on what to do on a Winter vacation in Helen Georgia, please see our last Blog Post, “The Wonders of a Winter Vacation in the North Georgia Mountains.”

What do you think would make a January vacation special?  How would you like to kick off the New Year?

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Posted by: blueridgecabinrentals | November 30, 2012

THE WONDERS OF A WINTER VACATION IN THE NORTH GEORGIA MOUNTAINS

Winter may technically be the “off season” for tourist areas like Helen, Georgia, but for many reasons, it is one of the best times to visit and stay in a cabin or condo snow photo of cabins 111in the North Georgia Mountains.

After the holidays, rates for accommodations in Helen tend to be less expensive than in the “high” season.  Many of the shops and restaurants offer discounts to lure patrons at this time of year, too.  While there may not be as many outdoor activities as at other times of the year, there are plenty of indoor activities to make a winter vacation memorable.

Staying in a cozy mountain cabin while the weather is cold outside is something everyone should experience.  Stop by our office and stock up on firewood and DVDs (for rent, only .99 cents each), and cuddle by the fireplace all evening.  Sip on a hot beverage like cocoa (with tiny marshmallows, of course), or stop by Jumpin Goat Coffee Roasters on your way into Helen for some gourmet coffee.

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Being stuck inside does not mean there is nothing to do.  Most of our cabins have game rooms, which may include a pool table, an air hockey table, foosball, a poker table, or an arcade game.  Some cabins even have gaming systems, like WII, or you can bring your own games to hook up and play.  Most cabins have wi-fi, too.

Some couples or families use the time in the cabin to do things they don’t get around to at home, such as playing cards or board games, working on art or craft projects, or simply catching up on that stack of magazines or a favorite novel.

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If you do venture out, a hike or a drive (weather permitting) may reveal scenery you would not be able to see in warmer times.  The surrounding mountains are more visible, and sometimes wildlife is easier to spot.  At night, sit outside by the outdoor fireplace or firepit, roast marshmallows and be dazzled by the canopy of stars.  Cold, clear winter nights are the ultimate for star-gazing.  Being away from the city lights also allows for maximum viewing.

Taking a dip in the hot tub can be invigorating when the weather is cold out.  Many of our cabins have outdoor saunas, too, which feels awesome after soaking in the hot tub.  Takes the chill right out.

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If it does snow, then you get to see the North Georgia Mountains in a whole new light.  Snow events here are rare, and they generally do not last long.  But it really is a gorgeous sight!

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Some of the shops, activities and restaurants in Helen and the surrounding areas may have limited hours during the winter.  Please check with the individual merchants or call the Helen Welcome Center at 706-878-2181 for more information. Or call us at Blue Ridge Cabin Rentals, and we will be glad to help.  And if you subscribe to this blog, you will have even more information on happenings in Helen, year round, as we do our best to keep you informed.

What is your favorite thing about winter in the North Georgia Mountains?

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Posted by: blueridgecabinrentals | November 16, 2012

HOLIDAY CELEBRATIONS- DECEMBER 2012 EVENTS IN HELEN, GEORGIA

What a year 2012 has been!  It has certainly been an interesting year, and we are pretty sure the Mayans had it wrong and 2013 will be remarkable, too.  If you are thinking of taking a well-earned break and coming to the North Georgia Mountains in December, Blue Ridge Cabin Rentals would love to help.

We have well-appointed cabins with indoor and/or outdoor fireplaces, and comfortable condos within walking distance of Helen.  And while you are here, there are plenty of activities to keep you entertained and to get you into the Holiday mood.

On Saturday, December 1st, kick off the last month of the year with the Annual Holiday Parade in downtown Helen at 2p.m.  Local individuals and businesses participate every year, with decorated floats and costumed characters, including a jolly old fellow named Santa Claus.  Booths will also be set up in the Marketplatz full of unique gifts and food.

And from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. the same day, the nearby town of Cleveland, Georgia hosts its’ Annual Christmas in the Mountains Festival.  There will also be a parade, caroling, arts and crafts booths, food and more.  With both of these events, you can shop for holiday gifts and be entertained, too!

The weekend of December 7th and 8th, the festivities continue in Nacoochee Village, just outside of Helen.  Local wineries Habersham, Sautee Nacoochee, and Yonah Mountain Vineyards will be hosting the Winter Wine Weekend, featuring tours, tastings, live music, and food.  Stop in some of the local shops for unique gift items, as you travel to each of the wineries.  It is sure to put you in the holiday spirit!

If you are looking for a more traditional family style event, the 3rd Annual Christmas at Densmore Farms is also on Saturday, December 8th, from 3 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.  In nearby Cleveland, Georgia, admission is FREE with a canned good or new wrapped toy, to benefit the local food pantry and White County Christmas program.  Support a great cause and enjoy the live nativity, take a walk on the nature trail, roast marshmallows over the campfire, and visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus!  Concessions and other activities will be available.

The rest of the month is for the enjoyment of the holidays, however you may choose.  Many of our guests come up to spend the holidays in a cabin, and some even bring their own decorations to make it feel more like home.  If the weather is cool (or even snowy), snuggle by the fire and watch movies all day (we rent DVDs at our office).  If the weather is comfortable, take a hike or a drive and enjoy the mountain scenery.  And a dip in the hot tub feels great on a cold winter’s night!

Our cabins and condos have fully equipped kitchens so you can have that special meal, just as you would at home. Stop by Betty’s Country Store for some gourmet food items, and a bottle of wine to complement.

Why not end 2012 on a high note?  New Year’s Eve in a cabin is a great way to celebrate.  Many of the restaurants and clubs in town will be having special celebrations.  Click this link or call the Helen Welcome Center at 706-878-2181 when you are in town for the latest information.

We sincerely hope that whatever you do to commemorate the holidays and the passing of 2012, that you have a fantastic time.  And we wish to all of our guests and to everyone reading this blog post,  that 2013 is filled with blessings and wonderful surprises.

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Posted by: blueridgecabinrentals | November 2, 2012

CLEVELAND, GEORGIA- GATEWAY TO THE NORTH GEORGIA MOUNTAINS

photo courtesy of Flickr.com

 

Cleveland, Georgia is most well known as the home of the Cabbage Patch Kids dolls, and as a town to pass through on the way to Alpine Helen and the North Georgia Mountains.  But there are many reasons to take the time to linger in this small town with a big dose of country charm.

 

Babyland General, home of the Cabbage Patch Kids, is certainly one of the main attractions in Cleveland worth visiting.  For the young, or young at heart, the new “mansion” and grounds of Babyland General are picturesque and the tour is more fun than ever.  They have special events year round, too.  Check out their website, and follow our blog for info on upcoming events.

 

photo courtesy of atlantaoutdoorclub.com

From pretty much anywhere in Cleveland, you can look up and see another local icon- Mount Yonah.  An imposing, craggy-faced mountain, topping out at 1,570 feet tall, it is a favorite for hikers in the area.  The U.S. Army regularly trains on the trails, and the view from the summit is breathtaking.  The town of Cleveland was originally named Mount Yonah, after the landmark, but was later changed to honor General Benjamin Cleveland, a war of 1812 hero.

 

Cleveland is the seat of White County, and the historic courthouse on the square is open for tours on Thursday, Friday and Saturday.  There are also shops on and near the square to browse in.  For more info on the courthouse or the history of White County, check out the Historical Society’s website.

 

photo courtesy of southernhighroads.org

 

 

 

 

Speaking of shopping, there are a lot of antique shops to browse in around the Cleveland area.  The Laurel Antique Mall is south of Cleveland on Hwy 129 and has a huge selection of booths.  Velvet’s Vintage is on HWY 75 on the way to Helen and Sautee.  These are just two of the several interesting shops that dot the country roads around Cleveland, so keep a lookout as you pass through.

If you are staying at a cabin or condo in the Helen area, Cleveland also is a convenient short drive for any needed supplies during your stay.  Ingles is the closest supermarket at the corner of HWY 129N and HWY 75.  They have a Starbucks, too!  Wal-Mart is further south on HWY 129, a mile or so past the square.

photo courtesy of mossy creek golf course

When you think of Cleveland, you probably don’t think of golf. Mossy Creek Golf Course is open to the public year round, seven days a week.  Greens fees are $30.00 weekdays, and $37.00 on weekends, which includes a cart.  They have a range, pro shop, and a snack bar, plus they host tournaments and have outing packages.  Add to that a beautiful wooded setting, and you have the makings of a great day.

 

Kelly’s 19th Tee is a driving range in Cleveland, also open year round.  They have buckets of balls starting at $4.00, and have adults and kids clubs available.  If you just want to practice your swing and get out in the fresh air, give them a call at 706-219-2932.

If you get hungry as you head toward Helen and the mountains, or even on your way home, there are plenty of restaurants (and the usual fast food chains) to stop at in Cleveland.  If you enjoy country style food (southern home cooking), try Ma Gooch’s Restaurant on the corner of Hwy 129 and HWY 75, or Western Sizzlin’ on HWY 75.  Both have a great selection of “comfort foods” and are local favorites.

How about a pizza?  Papa’s Pizza To Go is a local favorite that has a buffet and certain Family nights where kids under ten eat free!  They are also on Hwy 75 and worth stopping in.  Check out their website or call ahead to have your pizza ready!  706-219-2071

Helen, Georgia’s closest neighbor is well worth a visit.  Call us at Blue Ridge Cabin Rentals for directions, recommendations, and more information on all there is to see and do in the North Georgia Mountains!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Posted by: blueridgecabinrentals | October 12, 2012

FALL FUN CONTINUES- NOVEMBER 2012 EVENTS IN HELEN, GEORGIA

The Fall fun continues in the North Georgia Mountains!  November ushers in cooler temperatures and bare trees, but there is still plenty to do around Helen, Georgia.

The corn mazes and hayrides we mentioned in our recent post continue for at least the first half of November.  The North Georgia Zoo also hosts a Pumpkin Smashing the first and second weekend in November- apparently the animals consider the pumpkins quite a treat!  Visitors get to help throw and smash the pumpkins.  Something you don’t get to do every day, right?  Click the link to their website for all the details.

The Winter Arts Tour is November 9th & 10th, in Helen.  Over 100 local artisans participate,  showcasing art, jewelry, pottery, and much more.  Find that special unique gift you’ve been searching for!  On that same weekend there is also a Civil War Expo, in Helen Riverside Park, which includes a Civil War re-enactment.  Or, head on over to the Black Bear Stage in Sautee, on Saturday evening, November 10, for Elvis – the Blue Hawaii Show. Call for info at 678-989-9580.  See?   There‘s something for everyone!

courtesy of exploregeorgia.org

Every year, Babyland General Hospital in Cleveland, Georgia (home of the Cabbage Patch Kids) hosts an Appalachian Christmas.  This year, it will be held on Saturday, November 17th.  With arts, crafts, and games for the kids, it is a great way to get the family in a holiday mood.  Call for details at 706-865-2171.

The weekend of November 23rd and 24th is a busy one, too.  It begins with the Lighting of the Village, a ceremony to celebrate all the holiday decorations that light up the town.  Santa will be visiting, too!  6 p.m. Friday night.  What a great kickoff to the Holidays! The5th Annual Christkindlmrkt begins that Friday also, with booths set up in the Marketplatz downtown.  With unique gifts, decorations, food and drink for sale, this German tradition only adds to the fun of shopping and dining in Helen.

courtesy of lrc-media.com

Our friends at the North Georgia Zoo are hosting a Live Nativity scene on the weekend of the 23rd & 24th, featuring live animals, a marshmallow roast, hay rides, caroling and more!  If it is one of those clear cool nights, you can even take a guided “Starry Night Tour” of the zoo.

It is a great time of year to shop for holiday gifts in Helen, enjoy all the events we mentioned, and then relax by the fireplace at your cozy cabin in the mountains!  Give us a call at Blue Ridge Cabins and we will help you make this a November to remember!

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Posted by: blueridgecabinrentals | October 5, 2012

WE LOVE THE NIGHTLIFE- BARS, CLUBS AND PUBS IN HELEN, GA

Helen, Georgia may be a small town in the country, but you can still have a great time after the sun goes down.  From watching sports, to karaoke, to live music, dancing, and of course drinks and dining, there is something for everyone in downtown Helen.  (Note: if there is not a website link, please check for a Facebook Page for these establishments).

Paul’s on the River is something of an institution in Helen.  Located in the center of town along the banks of the Chattahoochee, they serve awesome food (their crab legs are a local favorite), with all-you –can – eat specials.  The cocktail lounge is a great place to hang out before or after your meal, and later in the evening the excitement begins.  Some nights it’s karaoke, some nights there are live bands, but it’s always a lot of fun.

Bigg Daddy’s Tavern and Music Club also features live bands, and has sports nights with televised games.  Drink specials sometimes include free jello shots when a certain team (usually Atlanta) scores!  They really get into the spirit of things and provide a fun, laid-back atmosphere.  And the food is superb- they are well-known locally for their sushi and wings!  They even have an outdoor patio to enjoy a view of the park near the river while you dine.

If you are yearning to step it up a notch, The Club Escape may be the place for you.  It is perched above Main Street in Helen, but a world away!  Open every day, they feature 15 HDTv’s, two mechanical bulls, a large dance floor, and food and drink specials.  They have a DJ keeping the music going and sometimes have live music.  Locals and tourists alike have been raving about The Club Escape- why not see for yourself?

 

 

The Hayloft in Helen is a fun place to go for drinks, dancing, and great food.  Check out their Facebook page or call 706-878-2440.  They have a new chef, and they have Karoke and other special events on certain nights.  Good times!

There is always something fun to do in Helen, Ga., day or night.   We at Blue Ridge Cabin Rentals are happy to discuss which cabin (a short drive from Helen) or a condo (walking distance to Helen) would be just right for your trip to the North Georgia Mountains!

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Posted by: blueridgecabinrentals | September 21, 2012

FALL FUN IN HELEN, GA- CORN MAZES, HAUNTINGS, AND HAYRIDES!

 

Who knew getting lost could be so much fun?  Corn mazes are sprouting up all over the south, and there are two near Helen, Georgia that are worth visiting.  Both have extensive corn mazes with lots of twists and turns, as well as other fun activities for the whole family!

 

North Georgia Corn Maze is on Tom Bell Rd., just minutes from Helen, in Cleveland, Georgia.  Open from September 1st through November 18th, Fridays-Sundays.  (Please check the website for pricing, hours and Holiday information).  With almost seven miles of trails through the corn field, the challenge of finding your way out of the maze will thrill you.  Or, take a 20 minute hayride and admire the backdrop of the nearby mountains draped in autumn colors.  There’s also a petting zoo for the kids, with animals courtesy of the North Georgia Zoo!  

 

At night, they feature recent movies under the stars!  Cool, clear North Georgia nights are perfect for this- check their website for showtimes.  On weekends, (and Halloween, October 31st) you can tour the spooky House of Burm, and take the elevator down to the Dungeon of Fear.  Open September 15th- November 3rd.  See their website for a discount coupon- will that make it less scary?!

The other excellent corn maze is on the other side of Helen, on Alt. Hwy 75, near Goats on the Roof.  The Goofy Rooster Corn Maze features a huge corn maze, hayrides, a playground, and a barrel train ride for the kids.  Open September 1 through November 18, they also have a Haunted Maze during the month of October (6th- 27th).  Check their website for hours and pricing, and group discount packages. There is also a large firepit, where you can sip hot cocoa and make s’mores!  The Goofy Rooster also has Moonlit Movies after dark, so come and spend a day and stay for a crisp fall evening under the stars!

 

The North Georgia Zoo and Petting Farm also has their Pumpkin Fest and Scarecrow Trail going on from September 28th through October 31st.  Vote for your favorite scarecrow, join in the wool jump and other fun activities.  Or come in costume on October 27th or 28th, for “Boo at the Zoo”, and see the dressed up animals, and join the treasure hunt!  See website for details.

Babyland General, home of the Cabbage Patch Kids, is hosting Halloween at Babyland, on Saturday, October 27th, from 9a.m. to 5 p.m.   Come in costume and get a free treat, then have your picture taken with a Cabbage Patch character!  Free admission and hourly prize drawings.  Fun activities for kids of all ages.

So come up to the North Georgia Mountains for fun and scenery this Fall.  Our staff at Blue Ridge Cabin Rentals would be glad to hook you up with a cabin in the woods, or a condo in town.  Or call us at 706-878-1773 if you would like more information on things to do and see in the area.

 

And if you do get lost in a corn maze, just follow the little children- they seem to have a built in GPS and can find their way out of those blasted things!

 

 

 

 

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Posted by: blueridgecabinrentals | September 14, 2012

OCTOBER 2012 EVENTS IN HELEN, GA- AUTUMN LEAVES, OKTOBERFEST & MUCH MORE!

October has long been one of the most popular months to visit Helen and the North Georgia Mountains, and for good reason.  This October is jam-packed with fun things to do that you may not find anywhere else!

 

photo courtesy of Flickr.com

 

 

 

 

Mother Nature’s spectacular display of colorful autumn leaves is certainly a reason to visit the mountains at this time of year.  The weather is usually pleasant, and photo opportunities are everywhere, with mountain vistas, lakes, streams, and the Chattahoochee River all enhanced by gorgeous  Fall Foliage.  The leaves usually begin changing colors in early October and peak in brilliance around the latter part of the month.  All of you “Leaf Peepers” will not be disappointed!

photo courtesy of northgeorgiaphotos.com

The annual Oktoberfest Celebration is Alpine Helen’s most popular event, and this will be its’ 42nd year.  It is based on a tradition over 200 years old, celebrating the marriage of Crown Prince Ludwig of Germany and Princess Therese of Bavaria.  It is still celebrated in Germany, but our celebration in Helen is one of the longest in duration, spanning several weeks each year, beginning in mid-September continuing the entire month of October.  Helen really comes alive during this time, with Beer Gardens, German food, music, and dancing. Not to mention folks in authentic German costume, greeting visitors and making them feel welcome.

The Helen Festhalle is where the main celebration takes place, presented by the Helen Chamber of Commerce.    The cost varies from $8.00-$10.00 per person, but  admission on Sundays is FREE!  Food and beverages cost extra, but this gets you into the Festhalle to join in the dancing to Polkas, Waltzes, and of course, the infamous Chicken Dance!  For times, band list, and other information,  please call the Helen Welcome Center at 706-858-8027.

 

During October, most restaurants have outdoor entertainment (weather permitting), and serve up special foods and beverages.  The relaxed party atmosphere, cool fall weather, and a backdrop of scenic mountain terrain, make for a perfect Autumn vacation or getaway.

But, wait!  There’s more!  The Georgia Mountain Fall Festival begins October 12th and goes through the 20th, in Hiawasee, Georgia- just a short 30 minute scenic drive up the mountain from Helen.  With arts and crafts, authentic mountain demonstrations, an exhibit Hall, and country music shows, it is bound to be fun for everyone!

photo courtesy of ngeorgia.com

On Saturdays in Helen, there is no shortage of entertainment.  The Swinging in the Vines Music Series continues, sponsored by Sautee-Nacoochee Vineyards, with a special Halloween-themed show on the 27th.  Habersham Winery hosts Second Saturday with wine tasting, music, and arts & crafts.  And the Helen Arts & Heritage Center presents “Artoberfest”, with a wide variety of arts and crafts to browse.

 

And don’t miss the Hillbilly Hog BBQ Throwdown and Fall Leaf Festival at Babyland General in Cleveland, Ga., on October 26th and 27th.  There will be musical entertainment, and activities for the kids, but the main attraction is a Professional BBQ competition, sanctioned by the Kansas City Barbecue Society and also Georgia BBQ Championship qualifying contest for state champion.  Some of the cook teams that have competed in previous years have been featured on BBQ Pitmasters & the Food Network.  Sounds like a fun day for the whole family!

Whew!  This barely covers the highlights of one of the best months to visit North Georgia.  Our next few blog posts will be covering other fun activities and attractions in the area, such as corn mazes, scenic drives, and other fun stuff to do in the fall.  And don’t forget that staying in a cabin or condo this time of year is the icing on the cake, so to speak- surrounded by the changing leaves, enjoying the outdoor firepit or fireplace, or soaking in the hot tub on a cool evening….check our website or call us at 706-878-1773, and we’d be happy to help with accommodations or other information to make your October vacation the best ever!

If you have been to Helen during Oktoberfest before, what was your favorite part?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Posted by: blueridgecabinrentals | August 24, 2012

HALF THE FUN IS GETTING THERE- POINTS OF INTEREST ON THE WAY TO HELEN, GA

A wise person once said, “It’s the journey, not the destination”.  As a destination, you can’t beat  Helen and the North Georgia Mountains, but there are some pretty interesting places to stop along the way.  So on your way up, or on the drive home, allow some extra time if possible to stop at these roadside treasures. (Note: hours of operation may vary seasonally, check with merchants).

If you come through or from Atlanta, Ga400 is a popular route that takes you straight toward the North Georgia Mountains.  If you are heading to Helen, you’ll keep going straight when you reach the end of Ga400.  That puts you on to Long Branch Rd., where after a mile or so, you will find The Peanut Stand on the right.  A small shop/roadside stand filled with goodies, and hosted by the nicest folks you could meet!  Boiled peanuts are a traveler’s favorite, and they have a big pot of them boiling away.  Also local honey, jams, ciders, and the BEST fritters in North Georgia!  Pick some up to have with your morning coffee or tea at your cabin or condo in Helen!

As you make your way toward Cleveland/Helen, you will turn right onto HWY. 115.  Watch on your left for a large building and a sign that says “ The Tomato House Farm Country Store”.  This huge new shop has several rooms full of really unique gifts, garden items, and even a second level that is devoted to Christmas Holiday decorations and ornaments.  Things you won’t find anywhere else!

The original Tomato House is just a few miles further down the road, on the right hand side.  They are well known for being jam-packed full of gourmet and hard-to-find food items, at reasonable prices.  Pick up a special marinade or sauce to use for grilling at your cabin.  Or a homemade salsa or dip mix, for your get-togethers.  They have a whole room devoted to hot sauces!  Locals get addicted to some of their favorites at the Tomato House, and you will, too! For more info, please call 706-867-8052.

If it is summertime, there may be other local roadside stands along the way- pick up some Silver Queen corn, a local favorite.  Or in the fall, pumpkins and apples are everywhere!  In the spring there are even places along the road where you can pick your own strawberries.  Locations and hours vary, so keep watch as you travel. (photo courtesy of wikimedia.org)

If it is more convenient for you to travel along I-85 out of Atlanta, to 985, then to Hwy. 365, there is one stop we recommend you make.  Jaemor Farms is a huge roadside market, which will be on the right if you are heading north toward Helen and the North Georgia Mountains.  After you pass the intersection/traffic light at HWY 52, watch for Jaemor Farms on your right.  They have boiled peanuts, too, and serve the best fried pies anywhere!  Rooms full of jams, salsas, produce, sauces…stock up on your way and you won’t go hungry!

When your weekend getaway or vacation is over, stretch out the drive home with a little shopping in places you might not get to any other time.  On Ga400, the North Georgia Premium Outlets mall in Dawsonville is right next to the freeway, along with several restaurants you might stop in for lunch or dinner.  On I85, near Lawrenceville, the Discover Mill is conveniently along the freeway as is the Bass Pro Shop.  Something for everyone!

We hope this information helps to make your trip to the North Georgia Mountains memorable.  Give us a call at 706-878-1773  if we can help with accommodations or any other information you require.  Where do you like to stop on your way to the mountains?

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Posted in Blue Ridge Cabin Rentals, Blue Ridge Cabins, Cabins in Helen Georgia, cleveland ga, Helen Georgia, North Georgia Mountains, shopping in Helen, Things to do in Helen Ga | Tags: , , , ,

Posted by: blueridgecabinrentals | August 10, 2012

FESTIVALS GALORE! SEPTEMBER 2012 EVENTS IN HELEN, GEORGIA

The end of summer definitely does not mean it quiets down in Helen!  The Fall Festival season gets under way and this month there is no shortage of fun things to do in the North Georgia Mountains.

It all begins with Labor Day Weekend, which is a three-day weekend for a lot of folks.  It’s usually still quite warm, and summer activities such as tubing, hiking, boating and fishing are still in full swing.  If you haven’t had a chance to enjoy these fun activities, rent a cabin or condo and get in on the fun!  At Blue Ridge Cabin Rentals we don’t require a three-night minimum or charge higher than normal holiday rates, so give us a call at 706-878-1773 and we’d be glad to help plan your stay and activities.

 

There is so much going on in September, we are including a link to the Helen Georgia CVB’s calendar of events.  There’s something for everyone!  On Labor Day weekend, the fun begins on Saturday, September 1st, with Crush Fest, sponsored by Yonah Mountain Vineyards.  Stomp the Grapes in a large barrel- just like Lucy did!  There is also a 6K run and a 2K walk/run which begins at 9 am.  There will be live music, local food, tours of Georgia’s only Wine Cave, over 25 vendors and artists,  and even a horse-drawn carriage ride through the vineyards!  This is the third year and it gets better every time!  Don’t miss out on this unique event.

 

 

 

Helen’s most well-known event begins September 14th, the 42nd Annual Oktoberfest!  German music, dancing, food & drinks!  Enjoy Waltzes, Polkas and the do the Chicken Dance!  Oktoberfest will run from September 13 – 16.  Oktoberfest will be closed September 17, 18 & 19, then reopen daily beginning September 20 and continue through October 28, 2012. So even if you come up during the week, you can join in the celebration.

Babyland General Hospital in Cleveland, home of the Cabbage Patch Kids, is hosting a Fall Fest on Saturday, September 15th.  It’s always a treat to tour the Kid’s new home and this weekend there will also be free activities!

 

Unicoi State Park will be hosting “Outdoor Adventure Day” on Saturday, September 22nd.  Learn how to catch a trout, paddle a canoe, and shoot a shotgun.  Try activities like fly tying and casting, bass fishing basics, and trout fishing in  the stocked stream.  Or try your hand at  archery, BB gun and skeet shooting. Call the park office for details at 800-573-9659.

Fall Festivals usually mean music, food and shopping- three of our favorite things!  Check out the Sautee Jamboree Music Festival, Friday September 28 and Saturday September 29th, all day. This two-day music festival in nearby Sautee features local bands, National and Regional artists, with food, beer and wine on site.  No better way to spend a cool autumn evening!  Also that weekend is the Agrifest Country Market & Pottery Show, featuring booths relating to the agriculture in this area. Pottery, basket making, canning, animals, weaving, soap making and many other exhibits will be on display. The arts and crafts area features artists from all over the region. Try your luck at Cow Patty Bingo and win some cash (You know you want to try that)!

On the 29th & 30th, there is also ArtOberfest, a juried arts & craft show held at the Helen Riverside Park along the river in Helen, GA.  This is a beautiful setting for the show.  There will be music and food available.

 

 

Whew!  That’s a lot of fun packed into one month!  This is all in addition to the many activities and sights to see in the North Georgia Mountains- check our other blog posts for information and links to all there is to offer in our little slice of heaven.  Subscribe and you won’t miss a thing, we do our best to keep you informed and make your vacation getaway the best ever!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Posted in art and craft shows, Blue Ridge Cabin Rentals, Blue Ridge Cabins, Cabins in Helen Georgia, Cabins near Unicoi State Park, fly fishing, Georgia Wineries, Helen Georgia, mountain vacation cabins, North Georgia Mountains, Sautee Nacoochee, shopping in Helen, summer in helen ga, Things to do in Helen Ga | Tags: , , , , , , ,

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