Once a rural town in the northern border of Georgia, Blairsville is now a popular tourist destination that attracts visitors for its quaint and charming ambiance. Its beautiful mountains, Appalachian trails, historical wineries, and natural attractions make it appealing for people who want to get away from the hectic city life. To help you make the most of your trip, here are some of the best things to add to your itinerary:
1. Desoto Falls
Blairsville is a stunning forest area with dozens of trails and hikes to explore. My favorite has to be the Desoto Falls, as it’s a truly beautiful area but also a super easy hike for people of any experience level. My wife and I love to explore this track anytime we’re in Georgia.
— Jason Dempsey, CEO & Co-founder, Home City Living
2. Lake Nottely
Rent a boat on Lake Nottely. Nothing beats being on the lake in summer. Located 6 miles from downtown Blairsville, Lake Nottely is a beautiful reservoir that offers peaceful mountain vistas and cool, crisp waters. You can rent a pontoon boat for the family, a fishing boat, or jet skis at Nottely Marine and explore the inlets and alcoves of the 4,000 acre lake for a few hours or all day. Since over half of the shoreline is protected by the US Forestry service, you can enjoy the natural surroundings while fishing for largemouth bass and rainbow trout. A perfect day outdoors.
— Kyleen Bontrager, The Bonnie Traveler
You can simply relax and take in the scenery, and if you prefer camping and fishing, you can do those things as well. This lake offers the nicest view, and it feels like a home that can heal your mind while also filling your heart with love and divinity. The fact that you can see the wildlife from here in addition to the lake makes it more exciting.
— Randy Angwin, Founder, Smart Scouter
3. Brasstown Bald
From one top, you can see four states! Brasstown Bald, Georgia’s highest peak, offers panoramic views over the states of Georgia, North Carolina, Tennessee, and South Carolina on a clear day. Brasstown. Visit the visitor center’s history and geology displays, too. Although a shuttle is included, you may instead take a tough trek to reach the summit.
— Matthew Bowley, Marketing Manager, Solmar Villas
4. Trash & Treasure Market
The Trash & Treasure Yard Sale at the Union County Farmers Market is a fabulous little market every Friday morning from 8 am until 1 pm. Each vendor offers unique items from handmade goods such as woodworking crafts and crocheted blankets, to antiques like jewelry and tools. The earlier you get there, the better because things haven’t been picked over, and you have the best variety to choose from. They have bathrooms on site, and because the market is covered, they are there, rain or shine. It’s a great place to pick up unique finds and fantastic deals, and there’s something for everyone!
— Ashlee Dozier, Owner, Anuket Luxury Apothecary
5. Local wineries
Savor the flavor of the mountains at local wineries and distilleries. North Georgia has many wineries, breweries, cideries, and distilleries to enjoy. Union County, which includes Blairsville, has been honored to be called an American Viticultural Area. There is a place for every taste here. Relax and unwind at the Paradise Hills Winery Resort & Spa. Experience the European influence of French and American hybrid grapes at Crane Creek Winery.
— Kyleen Bontrager, The Bonnie Traveler
6. Grandaddy Mimm’s Distilling Co.
Grandaddy Mimm’s Distilling Co. is a must-see while in Blairsville, GA. This distillery serves up some handcrafted moonshine with flavorful cocktails and treats like an orange soda and vodka concoction or a margarita with blueberry moonshine. The staff is friendly, there’s plenty of moonshine to pick from, and the atmosphere is absolutely killer with great decor and design.
— Brittany Mendez, Travel Expert &CMO, Florida Panhandle
7. Meeks Park
The landscaping at Meeks Park is stunning. Such a gorgeous scene. Routes for strolling. A forest or wooded region. The highlight is the kind old guy who comes daily to relax at a picnic table by the stream. He’s the one who puts out food for the wildlife [1]. Squirrels have gained weight. That’s music to the birds’ ears. For 16 years, he has been working in this field. Squirrel Man is a nickname for him. Everyone seems to know how to approach him. I see his happy smile every time I visit. This adds to the natural splendor of the area. Enjoyable for all ages. A beautiful, tranquil, and educational natural space.
— Matthew Bowley, Marketing Manager, Solmar Villas
This well-maintained county park has something for everyone, including nature trails, a skatepark, a disc golf course, tennis courts, a swimming pool/splash pad, a dog park, a campground, and batting cages. A favorite about Meeks Park is the festivals. In summer, find arts and crafts at the Butternut Creek festival, and explore heritage and tradition at the Scottish Festival & Highland Games. Don’t forget the sweet Sorghum Festival in October.
— Kyleen Bontrager, The Bonnie Traveler
If you wish to visit more places in Georgia, see the things you can do in Gainesville.
8. Outdoor Activities
For an authentic Georgia experience, you can’t beat Blairsville. The city is located in the northeastern part of the state, and it’s home to a number of attractions that will help make your trip memorable. If you’re looking for something fun and adventurous to do in Blairsville, consider taking a whitewater rafting trip down the Toccoa River. The river is one of the most popular white water rafting destinations in the country, so there are plenty of companies offering trips on this stretch of water. If you don’t want to get wet, try hiking along some of the trails that wind through local forests and along the riverbanks.
— Marty Spargo, Vantelligence
If you’re feeling like a short road trip, the Tugaloo Water Trail in Toccoa is worth the drive. Starting at Yonah Dam, the Tugaloo River Water Trail winds its way down the historic Tugaloo River and the upper part of Lake Hartwell. It’s perfect for kayaking, with multiple entry and exit points that span a course of 10 miles that ends at the Broken Bridges.
— Alli Hill, Founder, Fleurish Freelance
Georgia’s north Georgia mountains offer a wide variety of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy. Blairsville is centrally located near many of the area’s most popular attractions. Hiking and biking trails wind through the Chattahoochee National Forest, and Lake Nottely offers ample opportunity for fishing, swimming, and boating.
— Oberon Copeland, Owner, Very Informed
If you enjoy horses and horseback riding, Trackrock Campground should be on your list of things to do in Blairsville, Georgia. The campgrounds give their visitors a wide range of choices. Pop-ups, tents, and RVs with a capacity of no more than 40 people are permitted in the area. The Chattahoochee Forest, which is located nearby and provides a stunning view and ambiance, completely encloses the area. Along with swimming, fishing, and other classes, they also provide horseback riding and riding lessons.
— Phillip Imler, Founder, Global Alliance of National Parks
9. Vogel State Park
Tucked away in the mountains of the Chattahoochee National Forest, Vogel State Park is a retreat for hiking, fishing, bird-watching, swimming, or relaxing on the sandy beach of the 22-acre lake. Vogel State Park offers many fun family activities, including a putt-putt course, a playground, kayak and paddleboat rentals, and geocaching. The 17 miles of hiking trails are accessible for the littlest hikers to the most advanced and include a stop at a waterfall at the edge of the lake. Take advantage of the campsites and cabins available, especially during the autumn months in order to see some spectacular fall foliage.
— Kyleen Bontrager, The Bonnie Traveler
10. Alpaca Farm
For something unique, visit an alpaca farm. Lasso the Moon Alpaca Farm is not just your average agricultural business. This farm is for art lovers and gardeners as well. Educational tours of the alpaca farm are free, but available by appointment only. You will learn all about these gentle creatures and how to take care of them. The tour also includes the Lardworks Glass & Fiber studio. Learn how to make felted masterpieces and clothing. Scarves, necklaces, and adorable woodland figurines are created using fiber from the alpacas. This fairytale farm is the perfect place to learn something new.
— Kyleen Bontrager, The Bonnie Traveler
Final Thoughts
Blairsville’s unique and charming appeal is exactly what makes it a must-see destination. You won’t find chain hotels and crowded malls here. Instead, you can enjoy stunning mountain views, bubbling creeks, beautiful sceneries, and great restaurants. If you want to get away from all the hubbub of the city, Blairsville is the perfect spot to appreciate nature and just soak in a peaceful atmosphere.With our list of activities above, you’re sure to find something you’d thoroughly enjoy when you visit.