Day trip from Atlanta for a Family

Question

Hi, we are looking to head out on a day trip on Friday with our family by car. We have three children aged 3, 11 and 14 so looking for something fun, and enjoyable with beautiful scenery. I originally looked at Helen but it looks a little tourist-y for us. Was wondering if there was a laid back winery we could go to for lunch with nearby tubing for the teens? Or appreciate any other recommendations. Thanks!

Answer

For a family-friendly day trip from Atlanta with kids of varying ages, it's great that you're looking for a balance of fun, relaxation, and beautiful scenery. While Helen may be a bit too touristy, there are plenty of other options that offer a more laid-back vibe. Here are a few recommendations, including some scenic wineries and tubing spots that will be enjoyable for everyone in your family:

Ellijay and Blue Ridge (about 1.5 to 2 hours north of Atlanta)
- Ellijay is a charming mountain town known for its apple orchards, beautiful scenic views, and laid-back atmosphere. You could start the day with a visit to Hillcrest Orchards (in Ellijay), where you can enjoy picking apples, visiting farm animals, and exploring the orchard with the kids. The views here are beautiful, and there’s a lot of space for the children to explore.
- Afterward, head to Blue Ridge for some scenic mountain views and lunch. There are a few wineries in the area that offer great food and outdoor seating, such as Fannin County Winery. While you enjoy lunch and wine, the teens can explore the nearby shops or check out the Toccoa River Tubing for a relaxing float down the river. It's a great place for families to combine some outdoor fun with relaxation.
Dahlonega (about 1 hour and 15 minutes north of Atlanta)
- Dahlonega is a historic town nestled in the North Georgia mountains, famous for its gold rush history. It’s less touristy than Helen but still offers plenty of activities for families. You can visit the Montaluce Winery & Restaurant, which offers beautiful mountain views and a relaxed atmosphere for lunch, while the kids can run around and enjoy the outdoor space. The winery is family-friendly, with a great selection of food and wine for adults.
- After lunch, the teens might enjoy tubing on the Etowah River or a short hike in the area. If the weather is nice, the Dahlonega Gold Museum or a stroll around the historic downtown area is also a fun way to learn about the area’s rich history.
Amicalola Falls State Park (about 1 hour and 30 minutes north of Atlanta)
- For a more nature-focused day, consider visiting Amicalola Falls State Park, which is known for its stunning waterfall and hiking trails. It’s a great spot to explore nature, and the kids will love the waterfall and the opportunities for short hikes. The park has picnic areas where you can enjoy a packed lunch, or you could head to Frogtown Cellars Winery, which is nearby, for a more relaxed wine experience.
- The teens may also enjoy a trip to Toccoa River Tubing (about 40 minutes from Amicalola Falls) for some adventure. The tubing is scenic and peaceful, making it a great option for families looking for a laid-back day of outdoor fun.
Lake Lanier Islands (about 1 hour north of Atlanta)
- If you’re looking for a more resort-style experience, Lake Lanier Islands is a great spot for families. You can spend some time at the Lanier Islands Beach & Waterpark (which has shallow pools and water slides for the little ones and more adventurous activities for the teens). The family can enjoy lake views, boat rides, and the waterpark while spending quality time together.
- For a relaxing lunch, you can head to Sunset Cove at Lake Lanier, which offers beautiful lake views, a laid-back atmosphere, and family-friendly dining options. If the teens are looking for a fun activity afterward, you can try some lake tubing or paddleboarding. It’s a wonderful location that combines scenic beauty with family fun.

All of these destinations are great options that combine beautiful scenery with family-friendly activities, and they offer a variety of options for your kids to enjoy. Whether you’re looking for scenic vineyards, tubing adventures, or nature parks, these spots provide a mix of relaxation and fun for everyone in the family!

If you're specifically looking for a laid-back winery with nearby tubing for the teens, Blue Ridge and Dahlonega are excellent choices, as both offer a combination of great wineries, beautiful mountain scenery, and tubing opportunities. Both towns are charming, and you can avoid the heavy tourist crowds you might encounter in places like Helen.

Enjoy your day trip and have a great time exploring the beautiful North Georgia mountains!