Horse-drawn carriage ride in Helen, Georgia

Horse-drawn carriage ride in Helen, Georgia

Exploring Helen, Georgia with Kids

Helen, Georgia, is so much fun to explore with kids. The Northeast Georgia Mountain town is full of shops, restaurants and activities the whole family will enjoy. Follow these tips for things to do with kids in Alpine Helen.

Unicoi State Park & Lodge in Helen, Georgia
Unicoi State Park & Lodge in Helen, Georgia

Where to Stay

Smithgall Woods State Park

Did you know there are two state parks near Helen? Smithgall Woods State Park is my favorite!  It is a luxurious, fully equipped haven in the woods. Creekside Cottage sits right on the water’s edge. When we stayed, the sound of the rushing stream eased our woes and brought a peaceful night’s rest.

Unicoi State Park & Lodge

Unicoi State Park is also in Helen, with traditional cottages, and lodge, and fun “barrel” cabins, so named because of the shape of the exterior. The barrel cabins were so much fun for the boys, and we enjoyed their charm and proximity to all the Helen activities.

Hampton Inn Helen

Rooms at Hampton Inn Helen are spacious and clean; we adored the balcony from which we could hear the river. It’s within walking distance to a great number of attractions and eateries (even for the little legs that accompanied me.) The river was only steps from the back of the hotel, and we spent immeasurable time throwing pebbles and dipping our toes in the cool water.  It’s definitely THE hotel to stay in when visiting Helen!

Looking for more about our travels to Helen? Check out more details here: 365atlantafamily.com/helen.

 

Hofer's Bakery & Cafe
Hofer's Bakery & Cafe

Where to Play

Alpine Carriage Company

I recommend beginning your adventure with Alpine Carriage Company. My boys loved riding the horse around the small town and feeding him a carrot afterward. It’s a wonderful way to get your bearings, if you’ve never visited before.

Alpine Mini Golf

Stop by Charlemagne’s Kingdom to see a model railway. Alpine Mini Golf is a unique way to enjoy the sunshine, and you can finish your game at Scoop de Scoop Ice Cream Parlor, which is adjacent to the mini golf. Inside resembles an old-school soda shop, and outdoor seating is kid-friendly and fun for watching other golfers.

Sautee Nacoochee Center

Did you know Sautee, neighbor to Helen, was named one the 100 Best Small Art Towns in America? The Sautee Nacoochee Center includes a theatre, a history museum, dance and art studios, an art gallery, a folk art pottery museum, and an environmental educational resource center. The history museum was a win for my boys.

Waterfalls

If you want to get some hiking in, try Dukes Creek Falls or Anna Ruby Falls. Anna Ruby is paved and short, good for strollers and young kiddos. Dukes Creek is less crowded and more rugged, but was still manageable by my young guys.

 

Old Sautee Market
Old Sautee Market

Where to Eat

Old Sautee Store & Market

Here’s a secret…Old Sautee Store & Market is my favorite lunch spot with the kids, and I stop every time we are in the area. Try the grilled cheese with farmer’s cheese, bacon, and tomato! The boys enjoy eating outside with the bubbles and space to run. Stop in the adjacent Old Sautee Store to look around, and be sure to ask the owner to play the antique music machine.

Hofer's of Helen, The Troll Tavern & Bodensee Restaurant

Stop by Hofer’s of Helen for a great breakfast or lunch. Eat dinner near the water at Troll Tavern, or sample authentic German fare at Bodensee.

Published: March 2018
Written by: Lesli Peterson
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