Festivals, Orchards, and Wineries: Spend Fall in North Georgia

Summer is over, and we can’t help but think of all the things that remind us of autumn: pumpkins, apple orchards, colorful leaves, cooler days, and mountain air. This makes us want to spend time outside while enjoying the company of friends and family.

North Georgia has a lot to offer this time of year. Whether you live in metro Atlanta, south Georgia, or just down the road from the Blue Ridge Mountains, take a drive and check out some of the things you can do in North Georgia this fall.

Leaf Watch

One of the most beautiful aspects of the Blue Ridge Mountains is the vibrant array of colors as  the leaves change throughout October. But you have to move quickly, because once they begin changing they won’t hang around long.

Every year, Georgia State Parks monitors a Leaf Watch and provides updates on the changing colors of the leaves throughout the season. The Leaf Watch shows when you’re most likely to see the most vibrant colors and where you’re likely to get the best views. Georgia Parks shares the top 10 Georgia State Parks for fall colors ranging from Vogel State Park in Blairsville to Cloudland Canyon State Park near Chattanooga.

No matter where you choose to view the colors of the fall, you’re bound to get some great views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Fun for Everyone

With options for all ages, Georgia Grown has some great agritourism ideas that will get you into nature and maybe have you trying something new this season. We’ve listed just a few of our favorites below:

• Corn Mazes
  One of the oldest (and sometimes scariest!) fall traditions is trying to wind your way out of a corn maze. Bring your kids and get lost in one of the many corn mazes around Georgia. Challenge yourself and take on more than just one this season!
   

• Pick Your Own Fruit
  What better way to bring in the spirit of Halloween by taking a hayride through one of Georgia’s apple orchards? North Georgia features several great spots for apple orchards, blueberry farms, and many other tasty fall treats. Check out one of the many fruit farms Georgia has and plan your fruit-picking adventure!
   

• Wineries
  Maybe you’re looking for a romantic weekend getaway or just a weekend spending time with friends. The mountains are a great location to get away and relax. North Georgia has many wineries where you can enjoy beautiful views of the valleys and taste local, Georgia-made wine. Some cities in North Georgia offer wine tours throughout the Blue Ridge Mountains. If this is on your list of things to do, you’ll want to be sure to have a designated driver or choose a tour that offers shuttle service to each stop and back to your final destination.

• Fall Festivals
  Throughout the months of September and October, North Georgia has many arts and crafts festivals. There are activities for children, as well as music, food, and arts for people of all ages to enjoy. Explore Georgia has highlighted 12 of their favorite Georgia Fall Festivals throughout the state. Take a look and mark your calendars for your favorites!

Maybe a planned event isn’t your thing or you’re dying to get out of the city and away from the crowds of people. There are many state parks quietly nestled throughout the Blue Ridge Mountains where you can hike, explore, visit historic sites, and capture breathtaking views of Georgia waterfalls.

Whatever your fancy this fall, get outside to enjoy the weather and challenge yourself to try something new!