The charming town of Clayton sits in the Northeastern part of Georgia, boasting majestic surroundings of Blue ridge mountain ranges. While there are plenty of attractions around the town, one of the main attractions is the best local scenes in Downtown Clayton. Dotted with an array of shops, charming cafes, restaurants, and bars serving delicious cocktails and blended whiskeys, Downtown Clayton is a must-visit when in town.
Located in the heart of the Chattahoochee National Forest, Anna Ruby Falls is a spectacular attraction in Helen. When in town, embrace the Great Outdoors as you embark on an adventure to chase the beautiful waterfall. Traverse the Anna Ruby Falls Trail that winds through the lush green environs of the forest. Named after Anna Ruby Nichols, the daughter of a former settler in the region, the waterfall beckons hikers with its soothing atmosphere and slow murmur that gradually turns into a thundering roar. A natural gem, Anna Ruby Falls is a must-visit attraction for all nature lovers.
Dukes Creek Falls is a beautiful sparkling waterfall in Helen. Visitors can reach the waterfall via a trail that winds through the lush green woods, offering glimpses of the forest and a shimmering mossy stream. Cascading wonderfully from a height of 150 feet (45.72 meters), the waterfall is surrounded by multiple wooden viewing platforms that offer dramatic vistas of the surrounding region. Explore the serene trail to reach the waterfall, have a leisurely picnic as you soak in the charming atmosphere, and spend a peaceful time in the lap of nature.
Smithgall Woods State Park is a lush green park that encompasses an area of 5,664 acres (2,292.139 hectares) in Helen. Home to shimmering, crystal-clear streams stocked with freshwater trout and picturesque trails, the park is an outdoor enthusiast's paradise. Hike through the winding trails as they meander through the murmuring streams, spring blossoms of wildflowers, and towering trees. A splendid mountain retreat with beautiful cottages, Smithgall Woods State Park is also a great place for anglers and fishing enthusiasts.
Helen Arts & Heritage Center is the place in Helen where art, culture and history come together to make for a marvelous attraction. The site features a museum that explores the history of Helen and its surrounding region through a collection of fascinating exhibits. An art gallery showcases artworks from local budding and established artists and also conducts art classes for all ages. It is also home to a full equipped pottery studio and a gift shop, where visitors can buy local handicraft, souvenirs and art pieces.
Nestled amid the picturesque environs of the gorgeous North Georgia Mountains, Unicoi State Park & Lodge makes for a serene mountainside retreat in Helen. Located near the pristine beauty that is the Lake Unicoi and the Chattahoochee National Forest, the park sprawls across 1,050 acres (424.9 hectares), offering a variety of outdoor opportunities suited for the entire family. Embark on an adventure with your loved ones as you explore Helen's great outdoors and try activities like ziplining, fly fishing, mountain biking, target shooting, and more. Alternately, you can simply unwind and relax on the wonderful beach.
Timpson Creek Gallery is more than a quintessential art gallery. This elemental showroom in the North Georgia mountains hosts a great collection of folk art by some of the area's most talented artists, and also caters to antique aficionados. Yard sculptures, painted art, rustic furniture, and unique accessories for the home are all featured in an inviting setting.
Visit the vibrant and historic Holly Theatre to explore the local performing talent of Dahlonega. Constructed as a movie theater in 1948, the venue is now operated as a volunteer-run community theater. Throughout the year, the theater organizes musicals, plays, concerts, and children's shows. It also hosts local community events and holds interesting classes for visitors of all ages. The theater has earned popularity for holding improv classes, summer camps, and playwright workshops for children. When in Dahlonega, stop by this place to witness the local performers in the theater's comfortable seating and lively atmosphere.
An hour north of the city in the rolling hills of North Georgia, you'll find this aptly-named gallery on the lazy Main Street of Clayton. A far stretch from the image-conscious attitude of cosmopolitan galleries, Main Street Gallery is in easy harmony with the natural beauty that surrounds it, and the featured art reflects that spirit. Representing well-known and emerging self-taught artists from the Southeast, it also features artisan furniture, pottery and jewelry. This is a perfect spot for those who love modern folk art.