Helen, Georgia is the perfect place for a family getaway. If you dream of visiting Bavaria, or Germany, or just watch a lot of Hallmark movies and dream of picturesque towns, then a short drive away in Northern Georgia is for you.
Helen is a Quaint Small Town
Our family recently headed to the mountains for a short trip and we loved exploring this tiny town. Everything from the stores, hotels, to the Waffle House and Wendy’s are built to resemble the Bavarian towns we have seen.
Our day began with German pastries and Belgian waffles at Hofer’s Bakery and Café. Then we walked next door to the Charlemagne’s Kingdom to see the miniature railroad exhibit. The day we went the toy trains were down, but it was still so neat! All the details made for a fun scavenger hunt for my girls. If the trains had been running it would be even more fun I am sure!
Helen has Lots to See and Do
Nearby, was a small toy store with gems from the 60s, 70s and 80s as well as some small fun items from today. The owner even did magic tricks and played a game with my girls that they enjoyed. What I expected to be a 5 minute walk in/walk out trip turned into 30 or so minutes of entertainment.
From there, we walked to see all the shops and candy stores. Though we went in the beginning of March, so there were many places closed, you can tell in the summer during high tourist season there is so much to see. We did get to see a glass blowing demonstration which the girls enjoyed.
We then walked up to the Georgia Mountain Coaster. A small cart that can fit one or two people that runs on a metal track. You can control the speed somewhat which made it better as this thing can go FAST! Twists and turns, it’s a fun experience for sure.
Near Helen is BabyLand General Hospital
Just outside of Helen, Georgia, BabyLand General Hospital is a must see for many 80’s kids with memories of their Cabbage Patch Kid. I had remembered seeing images of this as a child and wanted to see it in person. Though I expected a museum, it was more of a large Cabbage Patch Kids store with everything you could imagine. My 10 year old still enjoyed it and it’s a free walk through experience.
For the adults, Helen and the towns nearby makeup the Georgia Wine Country. Small boutique wineries are all around that you can visit or even take a bus tour if you so choose.
During warmer months, there is also river rafting and tubing available, but it was much too cold for that when we were there.
Not far from Helen are Waterfalls
The State Parks and National Forests nearby Helen, Georgia are packed with lots of trails to explore and waterfalls to see. Be dressed for some hiking, but they are all very beautiful and totally worth the exercise.
As a family, we did decide we want to return, when it’s a little warmer, to see everything and give ourselves more than just a day to tour Helen, but it is definitely a must see long weekend getaway for when we can travel again.
Melody is a graduate of Jacksonville University, married a Jax Beach resident, moved away for 12 years, then returned to the area in 2016. Together they have two girls. Melody works as owner/photographer of Melody Coarsey Photography, she loves yoga, family, traveling, dining with a view and the ocean.
