Each year, families from near and far are drawn to the breathtaking North Georgia Mountains, captivated by its spectacular scenery, warm hospitality, and delightful dining options. Blue Ridge and Ellijay, two gems of this enchanting region, provide the perfect getaway for families with children. While outdoor adventures like river tubing and hiking are abundant, you might wonder—what else can kids enjoy in the North Georgia Mountains? The answer is: so much more!
Unlike crowded resort towns overflowing with flashy attractions, Blue Ridge and Ellijay offer a refreshing change of pace. Here, you won’t find rows of neon-lit arcades or endless touristy shops. Instead, the area is rich with charming, wholesome, and one-of-a-kind activities perfect for families. Ready to combine fun and natural beauty? Let’s explore the best kid-friendly adventures the North Georgia Mountains have to offer!
- Scenic Railway Adventures
All aboard! The Blue Ridge Scenic Railway is a magical experience for families. Starting at the historic depot in downtown Blue Ridge, this vintage train ride takes you on a 26-mile journey through the stunning North Georgia countryside. Kids will love the excitement of riding a train, while parents can soak in the views of rolling hills, forests, and rivers.
The journey includes a two-hour layover in the quaint towns of McCaysville, Georgia, and Copperhill, Tennessee, where families can explore shops, grab a bite to eat, or even stand in two states at once. Special-themed rides, like the Christmas Express, add extra magic during the holiday season.
- The Lily Pad Village: Mini Golf, Gem Mining, and More
For an afternoon of family fun, head to The Lily Pad Village in Blue Ridge. This charming attraction offers activities that kids (and adults) will love. Mini golf is a highlight, with a course that meanders through a scenic wooded area, providing a relaxing and enjoyable experience for the whole family.
Another favorite activity at The Lily Pad is gem mining. Kids can sift through pails of dirt and discover treasures like sparkling gemstones, fossils, and more, all while engagingly learning about geology. There’s also a fishing pond where children can try their hand at catching fish in a tranquil setting.
With its laid-back atmosphere and variety of activities, The Lily Pad Village is the perfect spot for families looking to unplug and connect with nature while having fun.
- Mercier Orchards: A Taste of North Georgia
No trip to the North Georgia Mountains is complete without a visit to Mercier Orchards in Blue Ridge. This family-run farm has been delighting visitors for generations with its U-pick apple, blueberry, and peach activities (depending on the season).
Kids will love wandering the orchards and picking fresh fruit, while parents can indulge in cider tastings or grab a fresh-baked pie from the market. Seasonal tractor rides and a charming gift shop add to the experience, making Mercier Orchards a must-visit destination.
- The Expedition: Bigfoot Museum
For a quirky and educational adventure, take the kids to the Expedition: Bigfoot Museum in Cherry Log, just a short drive from Blue Ridge. This unique museum is dedicated to exploring the legend of Bigfoot through fascinating exhibits, artifacts, and interactive displays.
Kids will be captivated by the museum’s collection, which includes plaster casts of Bigfoot tracks, audio recordings of alleged encounters, and detailed maps of sightings across the region. The museum also features a life-sized Bigfoot replica and a small theater where you can watch documentaries and interviews about this mysterious creature.
Whether your family is filled with skeptics or true believers, the Bigfoot Museum offers a fun and engaging way to learn about local folklore and the mysteries of the North Georgia wilderness. It’s a must-visit destination for families who love a good story and a little adventure!
- Black Mountain Trout Ponds and Fishing Shack Located in the serene town of Suches, Georgia, offers a fantastic fishing experience for visitors of all ages. Nestled amidst the natural beauty of the North Georgia Mountains, this attraction is ideal for a peaceful and memorable day outdoors.
The site features well-maintained trout ponds where visitors can fish without the need for a license. Families and individuals, whether seasoned anglers or beginners, can enjoy the tranquility of fishing surrounded by lush mountain scenery. The Fishing Shack provides all the necessary equipment, making it convenient for travelers who may not have their own gear. This ensures a hassle-free experience, letting visitors focus entirely on the joy of catching trout.
In addition to fishing, the rustic charm of the area makes it a great spot for relaxing and reconnecting with nature. It’s particularly appealing for those seeking a quiet retreat or looking to introduce kids to the simple pleasures of fishing without the pressures of traditional streams or rivers
The Trout Pond operates seasonally, so be sure to call ahead and confirm their hours. The promise of success and the joy of fishing make this a surefire way to create cherished family memories. Kids will love the thrill of catching a fish, and parents will appreciate the simplicity of the setup.
- Fannin Lanes: Bowling, Games, and More
Rain or shine, Fannin Lanes in Blue Ridge provides hours of indoor fun for kids and adults. This family-friendly bowling alley features 24 lanes, making it a great spot for large groups or an impromptu family outing.
For younger kids, lightweight bowling balls and bumpers make the game accessible, while the arcade offers additional entertainment with air hockey and video games. On Fridays and Saturdays, cosmic bowling begins at 9:00 PM, transforming the alley into a glowing wonderland.
Parents will appreciate the on-site bar featuring 20 different draft beers and a full grill menu to refuel after a fun-filled game. Affordable pricing ensures this activity won’t break the bank, allowing you to enjoy a whole day (or evening) of family entertainment.
- Outdoor Fun in Nature
The North Georgia Mountains are a paradise for outdoor-loving families. Popular hiking spots like Amicalola Falls, the Benton MacKaye Trail, and Fall Branch Falls offer trails of varying difficulty, so even little ones can enjoy the adventure. Pack a picnic and let the kids splash in the creeks or hunt for unique rocks and leaves along the way.
For more water-based fun, try tubing or kayaking on the Toccoa River. Outfitters in the area provide rentals and guidance, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all ages.
- Tank Town USA: A Heavy Equipment Playground
Just a short drive from Blue Ridge in Morganton, Georgia, Tank Town USA offers an unforgettable adventure for kids and adults alike. Think of it as the ultimate heavy equipment playground! Here, visitors can climb into the driver’s seat of military tanks, construction equipment, and even armored vehicles.
Under the guidance of professional instructors, participants can experience the thrill of operating these machines. With a sprawling five-acre playground, there’s plenty of room for exploration and excitement. While a valid driver’s license is required to operate the equipment, kids can join the fun by riding along as passengers, making it a perfect activity for the whole family. Tank Town USA is an extraordinary experience you won’t find just anywhere!
Stay with Morning Breeze Cabin Rentals
To make the most of your family getaway, book a North Georgia vacation rental with Morning Breeze Cabin Rentals. Nestled in the heart of the North Georgia Mountains, these cabins provide the perfect home base for your adventures.
Imagine starting your day with breakfast on a deck overlooking the mountains, then returning to a cozy cabin after a day of fun. Morning Breeze Cabin Rentals offers a wide range of accommodations to suit every family’s needs, our spacious family-sized cabin rentals have plenty of room for the kids to spread out. As with all luxury cabin rentals, you will find modern amenities like fully-equipped kitchens, Wi-Fi, and hot tubs, many of these beautiful Georgia cabins offer pool tables, foosball, air hockey, and video games to keep the kids entertained for hours on a rainy day or after a day filled with outdoor activities. Did we mention that 95% of the cabin rentals are pet-friendly!
Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a longer vacation, Morning Breeze Cabin Rentals is ready to host your family. Book your stay today and discover the magic of the North Georgia Mountains! www.morningbreezecabinrentals.com
Why Families Love the North Georgia Mountains
The North Georgia Mountains offer a unique blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and family-friendly activities. From the thrill of Tank Town USA to the peacefulness of The Trout Pond, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
By trading tourist traps for genuine experiences, families can focus on what really matters: spending quality time together and making memories that will last a lifetime. So pack your bags, gather the kids, and head to the North Georgia Mountains for an unforgettable family adventure!
