Why You Will Love Blue Ridge, Georgia

iStock | Blue Ridge, Georgia

We often hear people say one thing they love about living in the Atlanta area is its proximity to desirable destinations. In a matter of hours, we can have our toes in the sand at one of many beaches near Atlanta. The same is true for the mountains. And when it comes to mountain towns, nothing beats Blue Ridge, Georgia. Here’s why we think it’s the perfect package for family fun.

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Proximity to Atlanta

No matter where you live in Atlanta, Blue Ridge is an easy drive–two hours at the most for those on the south side. That means families can go from city/suburban scenery to gorgeous mountain views in less time than it takes to watch a movie. Blue Ridge’s close proximity to Atlanta makes it a popular destination for families for easy weekend getaways or even fun day trips.

Blue Ridge Scenic Railway

Hop on the train in quaint downtown Blue Ridge and treat the family to amazing views of the Toccoa River and the Blue Ridge Mountains. Throughout the year they offer special train rides like trips focused on the fall foliage, the Santa Express and Easter Eggspress. Plus, it’s a fact: kids just love to ride on trains.

Downtown Blue Ridge | Photo Credit: Fannin County Chamber of Commerce

Downtown Blue Ridge

Families can stroll through Blue Ridge’s historic downtown area where there are lots of antique shops and restaurants. Kids especially love to visit Huck’s General Store, where they can fill a bag with penny candy. And speaking of candy, another sweet spot is The Chocolate Express, which has mouth-watering truffles, bars and fudge. Chocolate loving families should also check out Three Sisters Fudge in downtown.

Family-Friendly Restaurants in Blue Ridge

Besides candy and chocolate, downtown also has plenty of restaurants that work for both parents and kids. Families like soup and sandwich shop Cantaberry because it’s casual, cute and delicious. Southern Charm is just like it sounds–a family-owned, cozy house with food inspired by the deep south.

Mercier Orchards

Families can spend a day at this 70+ year old apple orchard, picking their own fruits, riding on a tractor and having a picnic. Parents can enjoy tastings of Mercier’s hard cider and wine.

Blue Ridge Lake

Water Fun in Blue Ridge

Visitors not only go to Blue Ridge for the mountains, but also for its lakes and rivers. Families can play in Lake Blue Ridge at Morgantown Point–no need to have a boat. You can swim, fish and picnic at this recreation area. Renting a boat (or a pedal boat or paddle board) is easy to do at Lake Blue Ridge Marina. People of all ages also love to tube down the Toccoa River. If canoeing is your favorite water sport, check out Sandy Bottoms Recreation Area.

Camping in Blue Ridge

Because Blue Ridge is in the mountains, the weather is usually a tad cooler than Atlanta in the summer months. That is why families love to camp there, especially at Morganton Point, where many of the campsites are right on Lake Blue Ridge.

Swinging Bridge Over Toccoa River

Hiking in Blue Ridge

Hikers can access the beginning of the famous Appalachian trail which goes all the way to Maine. Luckily, people with kids can find much shorter, family-friendly hikes in Blue Ridge. Take the kids to see waterfalls, the swinging bridge over the Toccoa River or just hike through the beautiful Chattahoochee National Forest.

Gem Mining

Gem Mining in Blue Ridge

Kids have a blast mining for gems at The Lilly Pad Village. This picturesque spot, surrounded by mountains and trees, also offers mini golf and fishing.

Events in Blue Ridge

No matter what time of year, families can find fun festivals and events in Blue Ridge, Georgia. The town has everything from “A Hometown Christmas” festival to “Paws in the Park” to an amazing 4th of July complete with a parade and fireworks.