Hiawassee GeorgiaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Hiawassee, Georgia.
1. Bell Mountain
PANORAMIC MOUNTAIN VIEWS
Bell Mountain offers visitors a scenic mountain ascent on a steep, narrow road leading to panoramic views from an observation deck. The summit features long-distance vistas of the surrounding North Georgia mountains and Lake Chatuge below. This popular attraction is picnic-friendly, making it perfect for families wanting to enjoy nature while taking in breathtaking scenery.
2. Hightower Creek Vineyards
AWARD-WINNING FAMILY WINERY
Hightower Creek Vineyards is a family-owned farm winery tucked away in the North Georgia mountains. They've been crafting award-winning wines since 2011 with options to please every palate. Visitors can relax in the picturesque setting while sampling their distinguished local vintages.
3. Hamilton Rhododendron Gardens
BOTANICAL MOUNTAIN PARADISE
Hamilton Rhododendron Gardens is a botanical paradise nestled in the North Georgia mountains. The gardens burst with dogwoods, tulip magnolias, native azaleas, wildflowers, trillium, and, of course, rhododendrons. Visitors can meander through this peaceful natural sanctuary while enjoying the diverse flora that changes with the seasons.
4. High Shoals Falls Trail
SCENIC WATERFALL HIKE
High Shoals Falls Trail leads hikers through beautiful forests to one of the area's most impressive waterfalls. The trail offers an immersive nature experience with opportunities to observe local wildlife and plant species. Visitors particularly enjoy the educational activities at the visitor center that help learn about the geology and history of the area.
5. Lake Chatuge
MOUNTAIN LAKE RECREATION
Lake Chatuge is a pristine mountain reservoir offering numerous recreational opportunities for visitors and locals alike. Water enthusiasts can rent boats to explore the lake's 7,050 acres of clear blue water surrounded by stunning mountain scenery. The lake is perfect for fishing, swimming, and water sports during warmer months.
6. Marina Station Water Park
FLOATING OBSTACLE COURSE
Marina Station Water Park features an inflatable on-water obstacle course providing hours of high-energy fun for people of all ages. Visitors can run, jump, bounce, slide, and splash their way through the various water activities. The park is designed to ensure everyone has a memorable and exciting aquatic adventure.
7. Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds
YEAR-ROUND EVENT VENUE
Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds, opened in 1978, hosts several popular events throughout the year including one of the largest fairs in Georgia. The annual fair attracts up to 75,000 visitors with its diverse offerings of entertainment, agricultural exhibitions, and local culture. Located at 1311 Music Hall Road, this venue serves as a cultural hub for the entire region.
8. Towns County Veterans Memorial Park
HONORING MILITARY SERVICE
Towns County Veterans Memorial Park pays tribute to the men and women who served in the United States military. The memorial features monuments, plaques, and landscaped grounds dedicated to honoring the sacrifice of local veterans. Visitors can reflect on military service while enjoying the peaceful park setting in the heart of Hiawassee.
9. Hiawassee Antique Mall
VINTAGE SHOPPING DESTINATION
Hiawassee Antique Mall is Northeast Georgia's largest antique mall, with 40 dealers occupying nearly 10,000 square feet of retail space. The beautifully-displayed array of quality antiques and collectibles includes primitive and fine furniture, Southern pottery, crystal, china, glassware, toys, books, vintage jewelry, Coca-Cola collectibles, tools, linens, and cookbooks. Conveniently located in the heart of Hiawassee with ample free parking, it even features a comfortable 'hubby hole' for gentlemen to relax while their partners shop.
10. Blue Hole Falls
PICTURESQUE MOUNTAIN WATERFALL
Blue Hole Falls offers visitors a refreshing 5-mile loop trail through forested mountains and a lush valley to one of the most picturesque waterfall views in this part of the Appalachian Mountains. The falls are named for a distinctive blue hole at the base, which adds to its natural beauty. Hikers particularly appreciate the combination of moderate exercise and stunning natural scenery along this popular trail.
11. Brasstown Bald Mountain
GEORGIA'S HIGHEST PEAK
Brasstown Bald Mountain stands as Georgia's highest peak, offering spectacular 360-degree views across four states on clear days. Visitors can explore the modern museum at the summit that details the area's natural and cultural history. The mountain features well-maintained hiking trails and a shuttle service for those who prefer not to make the steep climb to the observation deck.
12. ArtWorks Gallery and Gifts
LOCAL ART SHOWCASE
ArtWorks Gallery and Gifts showcases the creative talents of local North Georgia artists in a welcoming gallery space. Visitors can browse and purchase unique paintings, sculptures, jewelry, pottery, and handmade crafts created by regional artisans. The gallery serves as a cultural hub that connects tourists with the vibrant artistic community of the North Georgia mountains.
13. Sweet Acre Farms Winery
SUSTAINABLE FRUIT WINES
Sweet Acre Farms Winery offers fresh fruit wines crafted from locally sourced ingredients in the nearby town of Alto. They pride themselves on using sustainable farming practices as they contribute to Georgia's growing wine industry. Visitors to the winery can sample unique fruit-based wines in a charming rural setting at 7584 Bill Wilson Road.
14. Fred Hamilton Rhododendron Garden
COLORFUL FLORAL DISPLAY
Fred Hamilton Rhododendron Garden features the largest collection of rhododendrons in the Southeast, with over 3,000 plants in 400 varieties. The garden blooms spectacularly in spring but offers changing botanical interest throughout the growing season. Visitors can enjoy peaceful walking paths through meticulously maintained displays of native and hybrid plants.
15. Cupboard Cafe
HOMESTYLE SOUTHERN DINING
Cupboard Cafe serves authentic Southern cuisine in a friendly, relaxed atmosphere that captures the essence of mountain hospitality. Their menu features homemade biscuits, country ham, fried chicken, and a variety of classic comfort foods that have made them a local favorite for decades. Visitors appreciate the generous portions, reasonable prices, and the warm welcome from staff who treat customers like family.