First time visiting

Question

4 of us are planning a 3 day stay end of July. Is there parking downtown as the place we are staying is not close enough to walk to town? Is 3 days a good out of time to explore the area? The only hike we would do is Anna Ruby Falls and the mountain coaster. We would be doing mostly site seeing /shopping and of course eating. Is there any must do’s? Thanks for your help.

Answer

Helen is a charming little town, especially if you're into scenic views and quaint shops. A 3-day stay is a great amount of time to explore, especially if you’re planning to enjoy the local attractions, hiking, and shopping. Here’s what you can expect and some tips to help plan your trip:

Parking: There is parking available downtown, but it can get crowded, particularly during weekends and peak tourist season like late July. There are several public parking lots and street parking spots near the main shopping areas. Some hotels and inns might offer shuttle service to downtown, so check with your accommodation to see if they offer this convenience. If you're planning to park and walk around, you'll likely find a spot, but be prepared to walk a little, especially during busy times.

3 Days in Helen: Three days should give you plenty of time to enjoy the town and the surrounding areas. Given that you plan on doing mostly sightseeing, shopping, and some light hiking, here’s a rough itinerary idea:

Day 1: Arrive and explore downtown Helen. Visit the local shops and enjoy the Bavarian-style architecture. Consider checking out the Alpine Village Shops for unique souvenirs.
Day 2: Head to Anna Ruby Falls for a scenic hike. It’s an easy walk with stunning views, and it’s one of the best spots for photos in the area. Later, take a ride on the Mountain Coaster for some fun and adrenaline! In the evening, enjoy dinner at one of Helen’s Bavarian-themed restaurants.
Day 3: If you enjoy outdoor activities, consider a visit to Unicoi State Park for more scenic views and possibly some canoeing or kayaking on the lake. If you’d like a more relaxed day, you could take a scenic drive along the Chattahoochee River or visit nearby towns like Clarkesville for a change of pace.

Must-Do’s in Helen: There are plenty of fun activities and things to see while you’re there. In addition to Anna Ruby Falls and the Mountain Coaster, you may want to check out:

Helen Tubing and Waterpark: If you enjoy water activities, tubing on the Chattahoochee River is a fun experience.
Bavarian Village Shopping: Explore the small shops downtown, including bakeries, antique stores, and candy shops like Hansel & Gretel Candy Kitchen.
Unicoi State Park: A beautiful state park just outside of town. It offers hiking, fishing, and a lovely lodge.
Helendorf River Inn and Tubing: A great place for scenic views of the river and some fun on the water.

Overall, your 3-day visit should be plenty of time to enjoy the highlights of Helen and the surrounding area. Be sure to leave time for relaxing and soaking in the local culture and scenery!

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