Chattahoochee River flowing behind Nora Mill

12 Budget-Friendly Attractions in Helen, Georgia

No matter the age, everyone is a kid at heart when it comes to Helen, White County and the Sautee and Nacoochee areas in North Georgia, about 90 minutes north of Atlanta. And fun here is affordable for any budget.

  1. Take a horse-drawn carriage ride through Helen’s downtown.

  2. Seek out the perfect souvenirs and gifts in the hustle and bustle of Helen’s shopping street while German music adds oom pah pah from outdoor speakers.

  3. Pastries at Hofers German Bakery in downtown Helen
    Pastries at Hofers German Bakery in downtown Helen

    Pick up sweet treats at the authentic German bakery or candy shop.

  4. Tour the world’s largest Alpine model railroad museum at Charlemagne’s Kingdom.

  5. Watch glass blowing at The Glassblowing Shop.

  6. Paint your own “green theme” child-safe toy at Elfmade Toys.

  7. Follow a round of adventure golf with a scoop or two of ice cream at an old-fashioned parlor.

  8. Continue family time during your mountain getaway in the foothills of the Appalachians by teaching kids about the great outdoors at Unicoi State Park with seasonal programs.

  9. At Smithgall Woods Conservation Area, where there are more than 5,500 acres of land, learning is fun for the whole family with special events like Kids Day at the Park and Junior Ranger Camp.
  10. Another can’t-miss bonding opportunity? Children and their “big person” can fish in a stocked lake during Youth Fishing Days at Buck Shoals.

  11. Make your way to BabyLand General Hospital and be there when a baby arrives at this Southern-style mansion in Cleveland that sits majestically on a 100-acre spread in the foothills of the North Georgia Mountains. Be sure to check the calendar for a full list of their spectacular seasonal events.

  12. Following a day of kid-friendly fun, share a meal and memories at multi-generation-pleasing Mully’s Nacoochee Grill, Nacoochee Village Tavern & Pizzeria, Old Bavarian Inn Restaurant or Unicoi Restaurant.

When you are ready to hit the hay, Helen has hotels with swimming pools and lodge rooms at Unicoi State Park.

Learn more about Helen, Georgia here.

Published: October 2014
Written by: Katie Reeder
Scroll To Top