There are many different things to do in Blue Ridge, Georgia. The region is known for its mineral waters and rich railroad history. It also has a self-guided tour and 19 historic sites in its downtown area. Some of these sites include the Fannin County Courthouse, which was built in 1937. Inside, you can see art created by local artists. In addition, the Hall Building, which was once a clothing store, is one of the oldest buildings in the area.
Lily Pad Village
If you are looking for fun activities for your entire family, Lilly Pad Village is one of the best places to go. From gem mining to guided hikes, the village offers something for everyone. Plus, it’s open year-round, making it a great place for families to spend time together in the mountains.
The village also has some interesting historical buildings and museums. One of these is the James W. Baugh Homeplace, which was built in 1893 in an I-house style that was relatively rare in Georgia at the time. It now houses a museum that tells the history of the area. It also includes a genealogical library and research center. It is free to visit, and you can explore the house’s historic items and learn about its owner’s life.
Another place to visit in Blue Ridge is the Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association, located in downtown Blue Ridge. This museum features multi-cultural works and is listed as one of the top five arts towns in Georgia. Visitors can visit one of the 35 exhibits that change every four to six weeks. There are also classes and art kits for kids and adults to take home.
The Blue Ridge Scenic Railroad is another interesting place to visit in Blue Ridge. This attraction is perfect for small children and families. It has a concession stand where you can buy snacks and refreshments. Additionally, there is a gem mining station where you can mine for topaz, emerald, quartz, and more. You can also purchase combo packages with discounts.
The village also has several interesting shops. You can browse through the Sweet Shoppe, which offers gourmet desserts and was featured on the Food Network show “Cupcake Wars.” You can also find apparel at the Blue Ridge Cotton Company. Another popular store is the Blue Ridge Olive Oil Company, which offers 65 different varieties of olive oil and balsamic vinegar. You can also visit the Out of the Blue Gourmet Living, which has an extensive selection of fine wines and gourmet food.
Memory Lane Classic Car Museum
If you love vintage cars, the Memory Lane Classic Car Museum in Blue Ridge, North Carolina is a must-see. This private collection is open to the public and displays cars from all nine decades. The museum offers a variety of events that will pique your interest.
This museum features a diverse collection of vintage cars, motorcycles, and trucks. It also has NASCAR memorabilia. It is also a family-friendly destination. You can also buy classic vehicles and NASCAR merchandise at the museum.
You can also visit a nearby brewery, Grumpy Old Men Brewing, for a taste of locally made beer and tasty bites. Afterwards, you can relax at the bar and listen to live music. There is also a small restaurant on site.
Another popular attraction in Blue Ridge is the Swinginging Bridge on the Toccoa River. This scenic location is easily accessible, and hiking trails are short and easy. There is also a playground for children. You can also go fishing here.
If you love classic cars, then Memory Lane Classic Car Museum is a must-see in the area. It has over 100 classic cars and motorcycles on display. It also has a collection of recently restored and newly restored cars, including Richard Petty’s 1969 Ford Torino. It is also a great place for a history lesson to younger generations.
Another fun option is to take an adventure at the Blue Ridge Adventure Park. This park features over 6,000 feet of cable. It will test your physical and mental prowess.
Dahlonega Gold Museum
The Dahlonega Gold Museum is a two-story museum located inside the historic Lumpkin County Courthouse. The courthouse was built in 1836 and has a very interesting history. In fact, it is the oldest courthouse in Georgia. Inside, you can see artifacts, photographs, and exhibits related to gold mining, farming, and quilting.
The Dahlonega Gold Museum is located in the former center of a rough and tumble mining district. The Gold Museum recreates the experience of miners during the Georgia Gold Rush, and there are interpretive displays that explain the town’s gold mining past. Visitors can also enjoy the town’s public square, which was laid out in 1833. Moreover, the commercial district is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
The Dahlonega Gold Museum is one of the most popular places to visit in Blue Ridge. Its unique architecture is impressive, and the museum houses many artifacts from the gold rush. Its displays include nuggets and gold mining equipment. You can also watch a film about the town’s history. The museum also offers a gift shop.
There are many other things to do in Dahlonega. The town’s gold mining history has inspired numerous people to relocate to this area in search of new opportunities and new fortune. Visitors can also pan for gold, which is a popular activity for families. The town also has many fine restaurants and excellent shopping. You can also find beautiful Appalachian art and crafts in the area.
The Dahlonega Gold Museum is located in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains in northern Georgia. It is known for its rich history, including the nation’s first gold rush. It was also home to the Cherokee Nation, and is rich in Native American history. The Dahlonega Gold Museum is located in the old courthouse and displays gold nuggets. It is best to call ahead before visiting to find out about the museum’s current opening hours.
North Georgia Wildlife Park and Zoo
North Georgia Wildlife Park and Zoo is an ideal way to learn about and interact with the area’s animals. The park features exotic animals from all over the world. Visitors can see black bears, bobcats, and deer in their natural habitat. There’s also a petting zoo and a variety of educational programs throughout the year.
Another popular attraction in Blue Ridge is the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway. This train departs from downtown and offers three different train rides during different seasons. There’s also a special train for fall foliage. Visitors can also experience the town’s history with a tour of the restored Victorian homes. This is a great way to learn about the region’s history while taking in the spectacular views of the area.
The Chattahoochee National Forest is home to Amicalola Falls, North Georgia’s tallest waterfall. This 729-foot waterfall features seven cascades and is wheelchair accessible via the West Ridge Falls Access Trail. Anna Ruby Falls, a pair of waterfalls located in Helen GA, are another beautiful waterfall in the region.
North Georgia has several museums, including the Currahee Military Museum, the Southeastern Railway Museum, and BigFoot The Sasquatch Museum. There are also several historic theaters and drive-ins in the region. The Historic Ritz Theatre in Duluth offers a large selection of films and other entertainment. It is also home to a variety of live performances and shows.
The Dahlonega Gold Museum is one of the best attractions close to Blue Ridge. If you’re looking for something more secluded, you can take a short drive to Cleveland, Georgia.
Little Switzerland Books and Beans
If you love books, you’ll love Little Switzerland Books and Beans, a shop with three stories of books stacked high. It features a cozy atmosphere, fireplaces, and plenty of seating. It also offers a selection of coffee, tea, pastries, and snacks. For those who love to read, the store’s collection is vast, with more than 30,000 titles.
Located about an hour outside Asheville, Little Switzerland is a charming mountain community with a thriving bookstore. The town is home to a variety of unique shops and galleries, as well as a museum dedicated to local history. Located on the Blue Ridge Parkway, Little Switzerland is easily accessible.
A trip to the Little Switzerland Books and Beans bookstore is a must for book lovers and travelers of all ages. With three stories of books and an art gallery on the second floor, this bookstore offers something for everyone. The store is open seven days a week from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. If you’re looking for a unique gift or souvenir, the store is a perfect place to stop.
If you’re interested in hiking, Little Switzerland is a great place to take a hike to nearby waterfalls. The nearby waterfalls include the multi-tiered Grassy Creek Falls and the 70-foot-tall Crabtree Falls.
Located in Little Switzerland, North Carolina, Mount Mitchell State Park is the highest point in the eastern United States. It’s also surrounded by scenic Appalachian mountains, which make it an ideal destination for hiking and camping. The park has a restaurant on site, too, which is a plus for visitors.
