Kid-Friendly Activities in Blue Ridge and Ellijay, GA: Fun for the Whole Family
Every year, thousands of families vacation to the North Georgia Mountains, and for good reason. Between the breathtaking scenery, friendly small-town charm, and endless outdoor adventures, the towns of Blue Ridge and Ellijay have become top vacation destinations for families looking to make lifelong memories. Whether you’re staying in a pet-friendly cabin rental, a luxury family-sized cabin, or a cozy romantic hideaway, you’ll find no shortage of activities to keep the kids entertained.
Unlike some resort towns packed with tourist traps, chain restaurants, and arcades on every corner, Blue Ridge and Ellijay offer something different, and in our opinion, way better! Here, your family can enjoy authentic Georgia mountain experiences, wide-open spaces, and adventures that get you closer to nature. So if you’re wondering what to do with the kids beyond tubing down the Toccoa River or hiking to a scenic overlook, we’ve got you covered.
Below are some of the best kid-friendly activities in Blue Ridge and Ellijay to enjoy on your next North Georgia mountain cabin rental getaway.
The Trout Pond – Fishing Fun Without the Wait
Sure, you could wait by the river all day for a bite… but why not head to The Trout Pond in Blue Ridge for guaranteed fun? This is a great place to catch some delicious rainbow trout, especially for the kids. They’ll have so much fun reeling in their first catch (my kids had a blast!).
With no fishing license required and rod rentals available, The Trout Pond is perfect for beginners and families. Plus, the catch guarantee means everyone leaves with a smile, and maybe even dinner. It’s a laid-back, memorable experience that makes a North Georgia family cabin rental vacation extra special.
Lily Pad Village – Gem Mining, Mini Golf & Fishing
Just a short drive from downtown Blue Ridge, Lily Pad Village is a must-visit for hands-on family fun. Imagine your little treasure hunters giggling with excitement as they sift through buckets of dirt, uncovering colorful gems they can take home as keepsakes. Wander over to the charming fishing pond, where your mini fisherman will beam with pride as they reel in their very own catch, a simple joy that makes for unforgettable memories, and a few good photos as well. Then, challenge the family to a friendly round (or two!) on the peaceful mini-golf course, surrounded by the beauty of nature. With its warm, welcoming atmosphere, Lily Pad Village is the perfect spot for families with younger children to slow down, connect, and enjoy the magic of the North Georgia Mountains
Mercier Orchards – Apple Picking & More
If your North Georgia cabin rental trip falls during apple season (late August through October), you can’t miss Mercier Orchards in Blue Ridge. This family-owned orchard is a favorite for apple picking, fresh baked goods, and delicious cider. Kids love exploring the rows of apple trees, sampling treats from the bakery, and riding the tractor through the orchard. There’s even a small pond, where they can try their hand at fishing.
Even outside of apple season, Mercier offers seasonal fruits, farm tours, and a huge market full of local goodies. It’s a fun, educational outing and a tasty way to enjoy the best of the Georgia mountains.
Bigfoot Museum – Expedition: Bigfoot!
Add some mystery to your family vacation with a visit to Expedition: Bigfoot! The Sasquatch Museum in Cherry Log, located halfway between Blue Ridge and Ellijay. Kids will be fascinated by the life-size exhibits, casts of “footprints,” and strange sightings from across the globe.
It’s an entertaining and unique stop that sparks curiosity and imagination, plus, it’s an easy outing from your Ellijay cabin rental or Blue Ridge family-sized cabin.
Hiking & Waterfalls
Blue Ridge and Ellijay are surrounded by some of the best kid-friendly hiking trails in the state. Fall Branch Falls, just outside of Blue Ridge, is an easy, short hike to a beautiful two-tier waterfall, perfect for younger hikers. The Aska Adventure Area is another great place to take the whole family for a day hike, including your furry family member. This pet-friendly hiking trail spans approximately 17 miles of interconnected trails through the Chattahoochee National Forest. From easy 1-mile walks to more challenging 5–6-mile routes, there’s something for every skill level
For a longer adventure, visit Fort Mountain State Park near Ellijay. The park offers hiking and biking trails, a sandy swimming beach, paddle boats, and breathtaking mountain views. Trails range from beginner-friendly to more challenging routes for adventurous families.
Swan Drive-In Theater
Take a step back in time and give your family the magic of a night under the stars at the Swan Drive-In Theater in Blue Ridge. Since 1955, this beloved landmark has been entertaining families and is now one of the few remaining drive-ins in Georgia. Picture it, the latest blockbuster playing on the big outdoor screen while you’re cozy in your car, or stretched out on blankets and lawn chairs under the open sky.
When hunger strikes, you won’t have to miss a moment of the movie; a friendly carhop will bring all your favorites right to your car window. Think juicy burgers, crispy wings, golden funnel cakes, creamy ice cream sundaes, and, of course, popcorn, and plenty of candy for the perfect movie treat.
It’s more than just a movie night; it’s a nostalgic, small-town experience the kids will remember for years, and the perfect ending to a day exploring the beautiful North Georgia Mountains.
Horseback Riding Adventures
Several outfitters in the Blue Ridge and Ellijay area offer family-friendly horseback riding tours. Blanche Manor Horseback Riding, just a short drive from Blue Ridge, provides guided trail rides through the scenic mountain landscape. Even beginners will feel comfortable with their gentle horses and experienced guides.
Riding through the forest is a unique way to experience the Georgia mountains and is sure to be a highlight of your family trip.
Blue Ridge Scenic Railway
No list of kid-friendly activities in Blue Ridge would be complete without the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway. Departing from the historic Blue Ridge depot, the train takes you on a relaxing journey along the Toccoa River with views of the beautiful Appalachian foothills.
The trip includes a stop in the twin border towns of McCaysville, Georgia, and Copperhill, Tennessee, where you can explore shops, grab a snack, and stand in two states at once. Themed rides, like the Fall Foliage trip or the Christmas Express, are especially magical for kids.
Fannin Lanes Bowling Center
On a rainy day, if you’re looking for some indoor fun, Fannin Lanes in Blue Ridge is a great family-friendly activity. With 24 lanes of bowling, an arcade, and even air hockey, kids of all ages will find something to enjoy. Parents will appreciate the on-site bar and grill, offering everything from burgers to snacks for hungry bowlers.
On Friday and Saturday nights, Cosmic Bowling kicks things up a notch with glow-in-the-dark lights, music, and an energetic atmosphere. This is a fun way to spend an evening after a day of hiking, shopping, or exploring the Georgia mountain towns of Blue Ridge and Ellijay.
Plan Your Family Getaway with Morning Breeze Cabin Rentals
Whether your perfect day includes catching rainbow trout, exploring a hidden waterfall, riding horses through the woods, or watching a movie under the stars, Blue Ridge and Ellijay offer endless ways to make family memories.
Booking your North Georgia cabin rental with Morning Breeze Cabin Rentals puts you in the heart of it all. From luxury pet-friendly cabins to family-sized cabin rentals with hot tubs, game rooms, and mountain views, we have the perfect home base for your adventure.
Imagine starting your morning with coffee on a scenic porch, spending the day exploring orchards, trails, and lakes, then coming back to roast marshmallows by the firepit while the kids share stories from their day. That’s the magic of a Blue Ridge or Ellijay family vacation, and it’s waiting for you here in the North Georgia mountains.
