Top 10 Things to do in Ellijay GA

Ellijay is a charming small town in Gilmer County and known as the “Apple Capital of Georgia”. Much to my surprise, there are tons of things to do in Ellijay GA that are not just related to apples. Although apple picking and the apple festival that is hosted there yearly should definitely be on your list.

Where is Ellijay?

The city of Ellijay is located about 78 miles or 1 ½ hrs north of Atlanta. Alternatively, if coming from Chattanooga it is about 67 miles or 1 ½ hrs south of there. Therefore, Ellijay makes for a great mountain escape from either of those two cities. Perfect for a day trip or a weekend getaway.

If spending a weekend or longer there then it makes a great base for exploring the North Georgia Mountains. Whether you are visiting in the early fall for apple picking season and festivals, or wanting to spend time exploring the beautiful outdoors, you will find plenty of things to do in Ellijay GA.

Top 10 Things to do in Ellijay GA

The word Ellijay comes from the Cherokee word Elatseyi meaning “new ground”. And compared to some of the more popular towns like Helen or Blue Ridge Ellijay is definitely less visited. Although I think the secret is out and it is becoming a lot more popular. The downtown area with all its charming stores, restaurants and antiquing are wonderful to visit. Its proximity to many hiking trails, and other outdoor interests make it an ideal base to explore the North Georgia mountains.

Therefore, you are looking for the best things to do in Ellijay GA here is a guide to Ellijay with a list of the top 10 things to do to make your visit memorable:

1. Visit an Orchard

Ellijay is in the Apple Capital of Georgia therefore if visiting Elijay you must go to at least one of the many Orchards in the area. If you are interested in picking apples then apple season is from August through November. I do recommend checking each orchards website to make sure they are still picking and to see which varieties are available.

Some of my favorite local Ellijay Orchards are Hillcrest, R&A Orchards, B.J. Reece and Aaron Family Orchards

Even if it is not apple picking season some orchards will have other fruits or veggies available for u-pick. Moreover, they all have stores with amazing farm fresh products for purchase. So stopping by an orchard is a must regardless of which season you are visiting. I especially like the cider donuts or fresh fried pies, jams and wine. They always have great items for picnics, or to bring home and enjoy later. Apple picking and visiting an Orchard is one of the top things to do in Ellijay GA.

2. Go wine tasting

Wine lovers can spend their days visiting some of the region’s best vineyards and wineries. Enjoy a tasting, a picnic, and perhaps even a tour. A few vineyards near Ellijay I would recommend visiting are:

Cartecay Vineyards

Founded in 2007 when they purchased a farm dating back to 1890. Cartecay Vineyards has 14 acres of vines they harvest six varieties of grapes to make 9 different wines. A sweet Chimney Blush, a dry and crisp Vidal Blanc and even a full-bodied Cabernet. Their tasting room is inside the original farms barn. It’s been beautifully refurbished while still keeping the original charm. They also feature an exquisite outdoor space with a chimney patio where you can enjoy good weather days and even some live music.

Website: http://cartecayvineyards.com/

Address: 5704 Clear Creek Rd Ellijay, GA 30536

Phone #: 706-698-9463

Chateau Meichtry Vineyards

Nestled in the rolling hills of the Appalachian Mountains Chateau Meichty is only 20 min drive from downtown Ellijay. This winery resembles a French chateau and has an ambiance to match. I especially like their outside patio, which includes a covered section in the event of inclement weather. They offer live music on the weekends and private tours by reservation. Tastings are available Monday through Thursday and wines by the glass or bottle 7 days a week.

Website: https://www.chateaumeichtry.co/

Address: 1862 Orchard Lane, Talking Rock, GA 30175

Phone #: 706-502-1608

Engelheim Vineyards

The word Engelheim is German for Angel home and they pride themselves on integrating their German heritage with their Appalachian home. Engelheim has award-winning wines and was even voted “2018 Georgia Winery of the Year”. This is a pet friendly vineyard and during peak months they also offer live music on Friday evenings. They offer several levels of wine tasting where you can select 5 wines and even add a wine soaked Hummingbird Bite. Tours are available on weekends and by appointment only.

Website: https://www.engelheim.com/

Address: 127 Lakeview Road Ellijay, GA 30540

Phone #: 706-635-9463

Fainting Goat Vineyards

About 30 minute drive from downtown Ellijay is Fainting Goat Vineyards. A boutique vineyard that does indeed have goats on property. They have both inside and outdoor seating with a gorgeous 50 foot veranda that boasts some of the best scenic mountain views in the area. This winery specializes in producing high quality small batches of wine and offers many options from sweet light wines to full bodied reds. Bring your own picnic and enjoy it with a glass of award winning wine while listening to live music on the weekends.

Website: https://www.faintinggoatvineyardsandwinery.com

Address: 201 Vineyard Way Jasper, GA 30143

Phone #: 706-692-9463

All of these wineries usually participate in the wine highway week. The event is usually held in late March. During 2020 the event was moved to August and the duration was the entire month. So make sure to check on their website regarding dates or changes. There is usually a flat fee paid at the first winery where you will also receive a collector’s glass and a passport with the participating wineries. Check out their website for more information on dates, cost and participating wineries. Regardless of time of year make sure to visit at least one winery for a tasting as it is one of the best things to do in Ellijay.

3. Saddle up (Horseback riding)

One of the fun things to do in Ellijay GA is to explore the area on horseback. There are several companies nearby that offer tours for all levels. You can even schedule a romantic proposal ride with Appalachian Trail Rides. Whether it is fun or romance, saddling up and going on a horseback ride will be an unforgettable experience. It is one of those things to do in Ellijay GA that will create memories that last a lifetime.

If you are looking for Romance then check out the full blog on all the things you can do on a romantic getaway in North Georgia

4. Cuddle Animals

If you are an animal lover you can stop by Cartecay Farm and check out the bunnies, goats dogs and other animals on the farm. The farm is open to visitors several days a week and some by appointment only. Check out their website for more information.

Another option is Ark Animal Rescue. They are an interactive farm animal rescue and hospice sanctuary. For a small fee you can visit and feed the animals. I suggest you call ahead and make sure they are open. You can find their information here

5. Play a Round of Golf

This guide to Ellijay would not be complete without mentioning Golf. Even though I am not a huge fan of the sport I know many are and Ellijay has a few nice golf courses. You can play in several golf courses in North Georgia. However, the closest to Ellijay is Whitepath Golf Club. It is a public golf course only 5 miles north of Elijay and it is an 18-hole, par 72 course, with a rating of 68.6. It is a beautiful course with a trout stream, four lakes and abundant wildlife.

6. Go Shopping

Downtown Ellijay is very walkable and it is filled with unique small shops. Therefore, you will want to make time during your visit to stroll through the streets and check out the shops that appeal to you. Here are a few I would recommend:

Artful Ellijay – The perfect place to pick up home decor items that are chic yet functional. And even if you are not looking for something in particular I am sure they will provide some great inspiration.

Green Willow Soap – this lovely shop has handcrafted body products including soaps, moisturizers and fragrances. They are all natural with high quality ingredients. They make perfect gifts with beautiful customized baskets or take some home for yourself.

Mountain Treasures – Love stores like this because they carry a little bit of everything. This one even has wine and moonshine tastings. So you can get clothing, a gift or sip on wine all in the same place.

The Loving Bull – a quaint vintage shop with clothing, jewelry and gift items.

Outback Antiques – it is the old red barn in downtown, which houses about 50 different vendors offering an assortment of antiques and collectibles.

7. Take a Hike

When looking at things to do in Elijay GA hiking will be on your list. Especially if you like to remain active during your holiday. One of my favorites hikes near Ellijay is Amicallola State Park. The park offers 14 miles of trails and is home to the highest waterfall in Georgia – Amicallola Falls. The picture above was taken in Autumn, around the third week in October. The colors were not yet at peak but they still put up a beautiful show. Fall is definitely one of my favorite seasons to visit Amicallola State Park.

You have 3 ways to access the falls:

Hike from the bottom of the park near the visitor center. There will be around 604-step assent stopping around midway for the viewing platform. You can turn back down from there or continue to the top of the falls.
You can drive up to the first parking lot that has an ADA access. This is the West Ridge trail and it is an easy 0.3 mile long trail constructed with recycled rubber material. This feels good on the feet when walking and of course gives access to wheel chairs and strollers.
You can drive to the top of the falls and head to the plunge point overlook. You can then take the 300 or so stairs down to the viewing platform and then back up.

Another popular State park for hiking that is near Ellijay is Fort Mountain State Park. It offers over 25 miles of trails. The overlook trail and the CCC Fire Tower Trails are great.

Other popular trails/hikes in the area are Tumbling Waters Trail, the hike to Emery Creek Falls and the hike to Springer Mountain. Whichever trails you decide on you are certain to fall in love with the amazing outdoor beauty the area has to offer.

8. Attend a Festival

Ellijay hosts some great annual festivals. The biggest and most popular one each year is the Apple Festival which usually is held the second and third weekend in October. It celebrates all things fall and the apple harvest featuring crafts, live entertainment and many treats.

Other popular festivals are a taste of Ellijay held in May, which features local restaurants. The Georgia Apple Blossom Festival with vendors offering food, and many arts and crafts is also in May. And the Glimer County Fair is held in August. For more information on these festivals and other festivals in Ellijay click here

9. Spend Time at the Lake

Ellijay may not be on the coast but it does have its own beach. Carter’s Lake is a scenic lake with 62 miles of natural rugged shoreline. You can rent a pontoon, swim at Harris Beach, enjoy a picnic, do some camping and so much more. Spending time at the lake is one of the things to do in Elijah you won’t want to miss.

10. Investigate the Mystery of Bigfoot

A fun activity for the entire family is to investigate the mystery of Big Foot. Just a few miles outside of downtown Ellijay, in Cherry Log, is a museum dedicated to just that. After going through the museum, which should take about 1 hr, the decision regarding Bigfoots existence will be up to you. Expedition Bigfoot is more than just a museum. If you have had an encounter, there is a team to assist you and you can report it there or by email.

Where to Stay in Ellijay

Check out Airbnb or Booking for cabins and unique stays in the area. For example there are some glamping dome tents near craters lake. Or check out Elatse’Yi. They have a tree loft airstream, Geodesic Dome and Airstream cabin. Another option is Ellijay River House Bed & Breakfast.

I stayed in a cute tiny home closer to Blue Ridge. A perfect tiny cabin for a solo traveler or a couple looking for a romantic stay.

If you are new to Airbnb receive up to $65 off your first qualified booking through this link

Where to Eat in Ellijay

There are actually quite a few good options and good places to eat in Ellijay. A few I would recommend are:

Cantaberry. Their website says it best: “Simple, homemade…good” This is a great lunch spot with a variety of wraps, salads and soups as well as delicious desserts. Website

River street tavern. A laid back place with no fuss but good American style food. The place to go for a burger and beer.

Ellijay Wood Fired Pizza. Serving the best artisan crafted pizza in town. This Neapolitan style pizza is made with fresh and locally sourced ingredients. They also offer an expanded menu with other items other than pizza. Website

Ellijay coffeehouse. I love a good local coffeehouse and this one is amazing. Great laid back and cozy vibe and some good coffee. Not only is the coffee good but they also offer fresh baked items. Website

Then you have the Pink Pig for everything BBQ and Abby’s for ice cream and frozen yogurt.

Another fun things to do in Ellijay is the Taste of Ellijay. Usually around Memorial day, this food festival highlights all the best restaurants in Glimer County. It is free to attend but you will have to pay for tastings usually somewhere between $1-$3. So if you are in Ellijay during this time you can fill up on all the best foods in one place.

Top 10 Things to do in Ellijay GA

Where is Ellijay?