A Bavarian Getaway in the Mountains: Downtown Helen, GA

Steve and I love visiting downtown Helen, GA, especially during Oktoberfest when the town comes alive with music, beer, and bratwurst. But honestly, any time of year is a good time to explore this charming mountain village.

You’ll find fun things to do in Alpine Helen, GA, no matter the season—cozy cafés in winter, river tubing in summer, and gorgeous fall colors in between. It’s an easy USA vacation spot for couples, families, or older travelers looking for something unique but low-stress.

From German bakeries to scenic hikes and Christmas lights to campgrounds, this little town in the Georgia mountains has a way of surprising you—in the best way.

Where is the Bavarian town of Helen, Georgia?

Distance from Atlanta to Helen, GA:
Helen is approximately 95 miles northeast of Atlanta, and the drive typically takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes via I-85 North, I-985, and GA-75 through the scenic North Georgia mountains.

Distance from Chattanooga, TN to Helen, GA:
📍 The driving distance from Chattanooga, TN, is approximately 127 miles (204 km).
⏱️ Typically, the drive takes around 2.5 hours  or more, depending on traffic conditions.

Most travelers will find Helen, Ga, perfect for a weekend getaway or with a North Georgia road trip. I would recommend a 2-night stay for this scenic North Georgia vacation.

🎡 Top Attractions Helen, GA Visitors Love

🛍️ Walk Through Downtown Helen, GA

If you only have a short time in Helen, start with a stroll through its storybook-style downtown. Picture cobblestone sidewalks, colorful Alpine buildings, and polka music drifting from a beer garden.

• Fudge and candy shops like Hansel & Gretel Candy Kitchen
• German-themed boutiques with souvenirs and locally crafted goods
• Outdoor cafés and pubs where you can relax riverside with a beer or schnitzel

🍳 Where to Have Breakfast in Helen, Georgia

Start your day right with a hearty mountain breakfast. Some local favorites include:

• Cimmi’s Café – A cozy spot with big pancakes, country ham, and cinnamon rolls
• Hofer’s of Helen – A classic German bakery with fresh pastries, eggs, and authentic European breads
• Village Crepe Haus – Sweet and savory crepes with mountain views from the patio

Many of these spots are located in downtown Helen, GA, making it easy to walk from your hotel or cabin.

🚠 Ride the Georgia Mountain Coaster

Georgia’s first alpine coaster is a must-do. Speed through the forest just off Main Street in downtown Helen, GA. Ride during the day for the views or at night for glowing lights on the track.

Pro tip: Buy the multi-ride pass—you’ll want to go again!

🏕️ Campgrounds in Helen, GA

Love the outdoors? Helen has some beautiful places to camp under the stars:

• Unicoi State Park Campground – Tucked inside the Chattahoochee National Forest and just a quick two-mile drive from downtown Helen, Georgia, Unicoi State Park & Lodge is one of the best mountain getaways in North Georgia. It’s the perfect place to unwind, hike, or enjoy a peaceful escape surrounded by nature—all while staying close to the charm of Alpine Helen. Tent and RV sites just minutes from downtown. Access to trails, a lake, and cabins.
• Yonah Campground – A peaceful private campground just south of town with full hookups and shady spots. Yonah Campground sits at the base of Yonah Mountain, just under two hours from Atlanta and minutes from Helen, Georgia. It’s a great home base for mountain drives, waterfall hikes, Chattahoochee River tubing, and exploring nearby spots like Anna Ruby Falls, Smithgall Woods, and the Richard B. Russell Scenic Highway.

Both of these spots make it easy to enjoy Helen’s attractions and natural beauty, whether you’re roughing it in a tent or rolling in with an RV.

🌲 Explore Unicoi State Park

Unicoi is packed with things to do. Rent a paddleboard, hike the lake loop, or zipline through the trees. It’s also home to one of the best campgrounds in Helen, GA.

💦 See the Best Waterfalls Near Helen

This part of Georgia is waterfall heaven. Don’t miss:

• Anna Ruby Falls – A paved trail leads to a stunning twin waterfall. It’s family-friendly and just 10 minutes from town.
• Dukes Creek Falls – A longer trail with mountain views and a series of cascading falls.
• Raven Cliff Falls – More of a hike, but worth it for the dramatic cliffs and wild forest scenery.

Each one offers a different experience, and all are perfect for a photo op or quiet walk in nature.

🎄 Christmas in Alpine, Helen, GA

Helen turns into a real-life snow globe during the holidays. In December, you’ll find:

• Christkindlmarkt – A traditional German Christmas market with gifts, mulled wine, and live music
• Downtown light displays – The entire village glows with thousands of twinkling lights
• Annual Christmas parade – With themed floats, carolers, and even Santa himself

The combination of Alpine architecture and festive decor makes it one of the most magical Christmas towns in the South.

🍺 Oktoberfest in Helen, GA

This is Helen’s biggest event—and for good reason. Oktoberfest runs from mid-September through October and includes:

• German bands and dancing at the Festhalle
• Beer tents and bratwurst stands all over town
• Parades, contests, and polka parties

Get your dirndl or lederhosen ready and join the fun—it’s one of the most authentic Oktoberfests in the U.S.

🛶 Float the Chattahoochee River

Tubing is one of the classic summer attractions in Helen, GA. Rent a tube, hop in the water, and float straight through the heart of downtown. It’s fun, easy, and a little splashy.

Travel Inspirations:

🗓️ 2-Day Itinerary in Downtown Helen, GA

Planning a quick weekend getaway? Here’s how Steve and I would spend 2 days in Alpine Helen, GA—with the perfect mix of sightseeing, local food, and outdoor fun. This itinerary works great for couples, families, or older travelers looking for a relaxing escape in the mountains.

🥨 Day 1: Explore Downtown and Relax by the River

Morning:

• Grab breakfast at Hofer’s of Helen, a German bakery and café that’s a local favorite. Try the apple strudel or a hearty Alpine-style breakfast.
• Walk through downtown Helen, GA, stopping at boutiques, candy shops, and the famous windmill photo spot.
• Browse handcrafted gifts and take in the Bavarian village vibes. Don’t forget to check out the glassblowing shop on Main Street.

Afternoon:

• Take a ride on the Georgia Mountain Coaster—fun and scenic, with beautiful mountain views.
• Have lunch at Bodensee Restaurant for authentic German cuisine (we love the schnitzel).
• If it’s warm out, go tubing on the Chattahoochee River. There are outfitters right in town like Cool River Tubing.

Evening:

• Enjoy a riverside dinner at Bigg Daddy’s Tavern or Mully’s Nacoochee Grill.
• If you’re visiting in fall, catch live music during Oktoberfest or stroll under twinkling lights during Christmas in Helen GA.

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🌲 Day 2: Nature, Waterfalls, and Campfire Vibes

Morning:

• Head to Unicoi State Park for a peaceful morning hike or rent a kayak on the lake.
• Then drive to Anna Ruby Falls, just a few minutes away. The paved trail makes it easy for all ages to enjoy this twin waterfall.

Afternoon:

• Have lunch back in Helen at the Village Crepe Haus or the Alpine Brew Deck overlooking the river.
• Take a scenic drive up to Raven Cliff Falls or explore Hardman Farm Historic Site for a touch of local history.

Evening:

• If you’re staying in one of the local campgrounds near Helen, GA—like Unicoi State Park or Yonah Campground—spend the evening around the campfire.
• Prefer a hotel or cabin? Cozy up and enjoy the mountain air on your porch with some takeout and a glass of wine.

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🧳 Bonus Travel Tip:

You don’t need to rush here. The joy of visiting Helen, GA is slow, mountain views, and sweet Bavarian details. We love this slice of Germany found in the hills of North Georgia, USA.

We have often included Helen, Georgia on a larger trip to both Brasstown Valley Resort and Murphy North Carolina. Yes you are close to the North Carolina and Tennessee when vacationing in North Georgia. Start planning an easy trip today.