Spring into fun: 7 must-do activities in Alpine Helen, Georgia

Looking for the perfect springtime getaway? Helen, Georgia, offers an ideal escape for a weekend retreat. Nestled in the heart of the North Georgia mountains, this charming Bavarian-inspired village offers a variety of outdoor activities, scenic beauty, and exciting attractions to enjoy as the weather warms up. Whether you’re zipping through the treetops, hiking to breathtaking waterfalls, or sipping wine amidst rolling foothills, Helen’s unique alpine atmosphere and picturesque setting make it a destination like no other. Here are seven spring activities you won’t want to miss during your visit.

Georgia Mountain Coaster

For an exhilarating adventure, head to the Georgia Mountain Coaster, the state’s first and only mountain coaster. Just steps from downtown Helen, this one-of-a-kind ride lets you control your own pace. Craving adrenaline? Race through thrilling twists and turns. Prefer a scenic experience? Glide gently down while soaking in the serene forest views. Open year-round (weather permitting), it’s the perfect outing for families, couples, or solo adventurers, and an easy addition to your spring itinerary.

Location: 8409 S Main St.; Website: georgiamountaincoaster.com; Admission: $17 for Ages 13+, $14 for Ages 7 - 12, $10 for Ages 3 - 6 (Second ride half off same day)

Nacoochee Adventures Zip Lines

Experience the thrill of ziplining through the stunning North Georgia mountains. Take your adventure to new heights and choose from a variety of zip line packages, including the Moonshine Canopy Tour for a thrilling introduction, or push your limits on the Big Zip Intimidator, one of the longest dual zip lines in the area. For more excitement, the Goldmine and Big Bear tours combine ziplining with scenic hikes through history, including a visit to an 1800s goldmine. With options for every thrill-seeker, it’s the perfect way to soar through the North Georgia landscape.

Location: 7019 S Main St.; Website: nacoocheeadventures.com; Admission: $30+

Alpine Mini Golf Village

Looking for a family-friendly activity in Helen? Head to Alpine Mini Golf Village, located at the south end of Main Street. This charming 18-hole course is ideal for families, featuring beautiful flower gardens and a relaxed atmosphere. Whether you’re enjoying a round of mini-golf or grabbing a sweet treat from Scoop De Scoop Ice Cream Parlour, it’s the perfect way to spend time with loved ones. The course is open year-round (weather permitting) and is not only great for families but also pet-friendly, making it an ideal outing for everyone!

Location: 7914 S Main St.; Website: alpineminigolf.com; Admission: $13.50 for Adults, $10.50 for Children 12 and under, Free for kids 2 and under

Alpine Helen Songwriters Festival

Enjoy live music amidst the stunning mountain views at the Alpine Helen Songwriters Festival this spring. This exciting event brings together top songwriters from Nashville and Georgia, who perform and share the stories behind their songs at local venues throughout downtown Helen. With five venues hosting performances, including Cowboys & Angels, Hofbrauhaus & Pub, Heidelberg Restaurant, Betty’s Country Store, and the Downtown Bandshell, it’s a fun-filled weekend of country music, delicious food, and great drinks.

Website: helenga.org/songwriters-festival

BabyLand General Hospital

Take a trip down memory lane at BabyLand General Hospital in Cleveland, GA, just a short drive from Helen. Experience where the magic of Cabbage Patch Kids comes to life as this nostalgic destination lets you witness their birth under the Magic Crystal Tree and explore nurseries filled with babies waiting to be adopted. With free admission, fun displays, and a gift shop full of memorabilia, BabyLand is a charming stop for families, offering a heartwarming experience for kids of all ages.

Location: Cleveland - 300 NOK Dr.; Website: cabbagepatchkids.com/babyland; Admission: Free

Wineries and vineyards

Alpine Helen is a vibrant destination for wine lovers, especially in the spring, when the vineyards come alive with color and the mountain views are at their best. Enjoy stunning views and estate wines at CeNita Vineyards, or visit Creekstone Winery for award-winning wines in a picturesque French-style mansion. For a unique twist, Yonah Mountain Vineyards showcases a sprawling 200-acre vineyard at the base of Yonah Mountain.

Website: helenga.org/wine-vineyards

Hiking trails and waterfalls

Surrounded by the stunning North Georgia mountains, Helen is a paradise for outdoor adventurers, with breathtaking hikes and waterfalls waiting to be explored. Discover the mesmerizing Anna Ruby Falls, where two streams cascade into a scenic gorge, or take a short trek to Horse Trough Falls for a peaceful escape through the woods. For more experienced hikers, the Appalachian Trail and Mount Yonah Trail offer challenging terrain and spectacular views. Whether enjoying a leisurely stroll along the Helen to Hardman Heritage Trail or venturing into the rugged beauty of Smithgall Woods State Park, the outdoor beauty of Alpine Helen is a must-see for nature lovers.

Website: helenga.org/outdoor-adventures