A Local’s Guide to Mountain Charm, Holiday Cheer & North Georgia Flavor
There’s nothing quite like Thanksgiving weekend in Blue Ridge, Georgia — where the air is crisp, the mountains glow with autumn’s last colors, and small-town charm meets the holiday spirit.
As someone who grew up in these mountains, I’ve learned that the best way to enjoy Thanksgiving in Blue Ridge is to embrace it all — the food, the fun, the family, and the unforgettable views. So here’s how I’d spend my perfect Thanksgiving weekend in Blue Ridge, GA:
- Hike one morning (Fall Branch Falls, Long Creek Falls, or Bell Mountain).
- Participate in the Turkey Trot.
- Attend Light up Blue Ridge.
- Get in the holiday spirit with a train ride on the Holiday Express.
- Enjoy a beer overlooking Downtown Blue Ridge at The Tipping Point. (Or, if you’re not a beer drinker, Living Water Winery & Vineyard up the road in Blairsville has UNMATCHED porch views.)
- Grab a homemade Apple (or Pecan) Pie and Hard Cider at Mercier Orchards.
- Shop some local gems like Blue Ridge Jerky, Three Sister’s Fudge, Blue Ridge Olive Oil Company, and Chester’s Provisions.
- Dine at either Grace Prime Steakhouse or Harvest on Main (or both).
- Brunch at The Black Sheep.
- Buy some Mountain City Apparel + Roosters of Blue Ridge gear to commemorate the memories made.
Get in the Holiday Spirit
Participate in the Blue Ridge Turkey Trot
- Start Thanksgiving morning with a 5K through the heart of town. It’s a Blue Ridge tradition — fun, family-friendly, and the perfect excuse for that second slice of pie. Learn more
- Location: Downtown Blue Ridge
Attend Light Up Blue Ridge
- The Friday after Thanksgiving, downtown transforms into a winter wonderland filled with twinkling lights, live music, a parade, and a visit from Santa himself. Learn more
- Location: Downtown Blue Ridge
Ride the Holiday Express Train
- Kick off the weekend aboard the Holiday Express, a magical train ride along the Toccoa River. The cars are decked out for Christmas, and the views — especially in late fall — are breathtaking. Pro tip: tickets sell out early, so book ahead! Learn more
- Location: 241 Depot Street, Blue Ridge, GA
Take in the Views
Fall Branch Falls
- A short, family-friendly trail leads to this lovely two-tiered waterfall with a 30-foot drop. The trail’s easy accessibility makes it popular among visitors looking for a quick nature escape. Get directions
- Trail: Fall Branch Falls Trail, 0.9 miles (round trip)
- GPS Coordinates: 34.7427° N, 84.2077° W
Long Creek Falls Trail
- This scenic trail follows a portion of the Appalachian Trail, leading to one of Fannin County’s most beautiful waterfalls. Get directions
- Trail: Long Creek Falls Trail, 1.9 miles (round trip)
- GPS Coordinates: 34.6635° N, 84.1838° W
Bell Mountain Park & Historic Site
- Drive (or hike) up to one of the most panoramic views in North Georgia. You can see the entire Chatuge Lake area and sweeping mountain ridges. Get directions
- Address: 220 Shake Rag Road, Hiawassee, GA
- GPS Coordinates: 34.9594° N, 83.7577° W
Brasstown Bald
- Georgia’s highest peak offers 360-degree views of the Appalachian Mountains. On a clear day, you can see four states — and maybe even a few lingering fall colors. Get directions
- Address: 2941 GA-180, Hiawassee, GA
- GPS Coordinates: 34.8747° N, 83.8100° W
Looking for even more hiking trails and waterfalls around the area? Check out some of the top waterfalls and trails near Blue Ridge, complete with trail lengths, GPS coordinates, and key details to make your visit unforgettable. View Article
Eat, Drink & Unwind
Mercier Orchards
- Grab a hard cider and a homemade apple (pecan) pie to take back home. If you’re lucky, they might still have hot cider doughnuts fresh from the fryer. Learn more
- Address: 8660 Blue Ridge Drive, Blue Ridge, GA
The Tipping Point
- A local favorite perched over downtown Blue Ridge, The Tipping Point serves up cold craft beer with even cooler views. Enjoy live music, laid-back vibes, and a crisp pint while overlooking the heart of Blue Ridge. Learn more
- Address: 322 W. Main Street, Unit 2D, Blue Ridge, GA
Living Water Winery & Vineyard
- Not in the mood for hiking? Sip wine on the porch overlooking the Blue Ridge Mountains. The views are unmatched — trust us. Learn more
- Address: 291 Living Water Lane, Blairsville, GA
Grace Prime Steakhouse
- An upscale dining experience perfect for celebrating the holiday weekend. Elegant, cozy, and delicious. Learn more
- Address: 560 E. Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA
Harvest on Main
- A Blue Ridge staple known for its Appalachian farm-to-table fare — hearty, flavorful, and locally inspired. Learn more
- Address: 576 E. Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA 30513
Mona Lisa’s Dessert House
- End the night with decadent desserts and a signature martini. Learn more
- Address: 240 W. Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA
The Boro Pub
- A quirky Irish pub tucked in the mountains, The Boro blends charm, wit, and great whiskey. Run by a former Catholic priest with Irish roots, this eclectic bar is known for its laid-back vibes, pool table, and unforgettable cocktails. Learn more
- Address: 150 W. Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA
The Black Sheep Restaurant
- Voted one of the best brunch spots in the North Georgia Mountains. Try the chicken & waffles or their famous Bloody Mary — the perfect way to end your mountain weekend. Learn more
- Address: 480 W. Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA
Looking for other places to feast, sip, and celebrate? Check out a list of some of our other favorite restaurants here. You can also find a guide to some of the best breweries in North Georgia here.
Shop Local
Chester’s Provisions
- Stock up on artisan snacks, local wines, and yes — find Mountain City Apparel gear here to take a piece of Blue Ridge home with you. Learn more
- Address: 733 E Main St, Blue Ridge, GA
Blue Ridge Olive Oil Company
- Sample infused olive oils and balsamic vinegars. Perfect gifts (or cabin essentials) for your Thanksgiving feast. Learn more
- Address: 511 E Main St, Blue Ridge, GA 30513
Three Sisters Fudge
- Treat yourself to homemade fudge — creamy, rich, and made fresh daily. Learn more
- Address: 662 E Main St, Blue Ridge, GA 30513
Blue Ridge Jerky Co.
- From elk to gator, you’ll find unique flavors you can’t get anywhere else. Learn more
- Address: 342 E Main St, Blue Ridge, GA 30513
Stay, Relax & Savor the Weekend
Blue Ridge is filled with cozy cabins, lakeside lodges, and mountain-view rentals perfect for family getaways. Check listings at Escape to Blue Ridge or Fannin County Chamber of Commerce resources and book early — Thanksgiving weekend fills up fast!
Carry a Piece of Blue Ridge Home
Before heading home, grab a Mountain City Apparel or Roosters of Blue Ridge tee or hat to commemorate your trip. Each piece embodies the spirit of North Georgia — where adventure and serenity intertwine. Shop online or find us at Chester’s Provisions downtown. Shop now
Mountain Moments to Be Thankful For
Whether you’re hiking scenic trails, sipping cider by the fire, or exploring downtown, Blue Ridge, GA is the perfect place to give thanks, reconnect, and make new traditions.
From our family at Mountain City Apparel + Roosters of Blue Ridge to yours — we’re thankful for our hometown, our roots, and everyone who helps keep the mountain spirit alive.
Let the mountains elevate your soul this Thanksgiving.
