Blue Ridge

A popular mountain retreat in Georgia, Blue Ridge was first established as a railroad stop in the 1800s. Downtown has stores, art galleries, dining establishments, and breweries. Beyond the immediate area, tourists can take advantage of outdoor activities like hiking, whitewater rafting, trout fishing, and wildlife spotting. Spend the night in a traditional hotel or one of the area's rental cabins. There is a lot to see in downtown Blue Ridge, including museums, galleries, shops, restaurants, and other attractions. Take a ride on the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway, which travels along the Toccoa River as it winds through the Chattahoochee National Forest. Between north Georgia and Tennessee, the restored train travels for four hours with a lunch break.

Over 50 different apple varieties are grown at the famous Mercier Orchards in the Blue Ridge Mountains. In addition to apple picking, the orchard also sells jam, baked goods, and both alcoholic and non-alcoholic cider. You can find strawberries, peaches, and cherries at other times of the year. The farm also offers tractor rides and U-pick. Breweries and wineries abound in the Blue Ridge area. Mountain views are available at Bear Claw Vineyards while sipping their red and white wines, including the well-known Cayuga White. Additionally, there is a treehouse there where you can stay the night or longer. Serenberry Vineyards, which provides tastings of its sweet whites and rose, is another favorite.