Fall is a magical season, with its vibrant leaves and crisp, cooling weather. It’s the perfect time to gather your friends and dive into a variety of fun activities. Whether you’re craving a cozy outdoor adventure or searching for the best fall activities near Atlanta, this list has something for everyone. Embrace the season and make the most of autumn’s charm!
Fall Hikes
The best way to see the fall foliage? Go on a hike in North Georgia! The vibrant colors of the changing leaves are best experienced up close, and the crisp mountain air makes the journey even more enjoyable. Plus, the panoramic views from the trails are absolutely breathtaking.
Preacher Rock
Preacher’s Rock offers some of the most breathtaking views of the North Georgia mountains, especially in the fall! The 2.2-mile round-trip hike is rated moderate and well worth the effort. I recommend starting the hike at sunrise for an even more enchanting experience. The warm glow of golden hour combined with the vibrant fall leaves creates a truly magical scene!
Brasstown Bald
Brasstown Bald, the highest point in Georgia, provides stunning 360-degree views from the top! If hiking isn’t your thing, this is a great option for you. You can drive almost all the way to the top and then take a short shuttle ride to reach the viewing area. For those looking to add a few steps, there’s a half-mile trail that’s steep but rewarding. Once at the top, you can either climb a few flights of stairs or take the elevator to the viewing platform for panoramic vistas.
Vogel State Park
Vogel State Park is the ideal spot for a fall day! Take a leisurely hike along the trail that loops around the lake, where you can catch a glimpse of Trahlyta Falls and soak in the stunning autumn colors. If the weather’s warm enough, you can even rent paddle boats or kayaks to enjoy the lake from the water.
Fort Mountain State Park- Cool Spring Overlook
Fort Mountain State Park is a fantastic spot for a lovely fall day. While there are several hiking options, I highly recommend the Cool Springs Overlook trail. Depending on which parking lot you use, the hike ranges from just 0.2 to 1 mile round trip. It’s short and easy, but the stunning views make it well worth the visit!
Pumpkin Patch
Nothing says fall like a trip to a pumpkin patch! Luckily, Georgia has plenty of great ones to choose from, each with its own special vibe. Whether you’re on the hunt for the perfect pumpkin or just want to enjoy the fall atmosphere, you’ll find lots of fun spots to visit.
Washington Farms
This is perfect if you’re visiting with kids! Not only does Washington Farms have a great pumpkin patch, but they also offer a corn maze, hay rides, and an eatery with delicious apple cider donuts, plus plenty of fun activities for children. Located in Bogart, GA, near Athens, it’s a popular spot, so it’s a good idea to buy your tickets online in advance to skip the lines.
Burt’s Pumpkin Patch
Compared to Washington Farms, Burt’s Pumpkin Farm offers a more laid-back experience. While it doesn’t have as many kid-friendly activities, it’s perfect for capturing some adorable pumpkin patch photos. They also have a fun hayride for just $7 per person, where you can enjoy lovely views of flowers, growing pumpkins, and festive scarecrows. For a more relaxed visit, I recommend going on a weekday, as weekends tend to get pretty busy.
Jaemor Farms
Another great option for a pumpkin patch is Jaemor Farms, located in Alto, GA. In addition to a pumpkin patch, they offer a corn maze, a mini corn maze for kids, fun games, a hayride, apple cannons, and concessions. Jaemor also features a shop with fresh produce, jams, and more, making it a well-rounded destination for fall fun.
Visit a Winery
Wineries are a fantastic place to relax, sip some wine, and enjoy the crisp air with great company. If you’re looking for a cozy spot with beautiful mountain views and fall foliage, check out one of the many wineries in North GA. Two that I’ve personally visited and highly recommend are:
Kaya Vineyard and Winery
Kaya is one of the first and largest vineyards in the Dahlonega area. The winery provides sweeping views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and panorama views of the vineyards. The vineyard does tend to get a little busy so its best to arrive early to secure a good spot
Three Sisters Vineyards & Winery
Located on a hillside with stunning views of the vineyards and a lake, Three Sisters Vineyards offers a diverse selection of wines. The scenic setting and charming atmosphere make it a perfect spot to relax and savor the beauty of the fall season. If you enjoy sweet wines, I highly recommend trying the Hula Hala-Kahika. This white wine boasts delightful pineapple flavors, making it a refreshing and tropical treat. I found this winery to be more peaceful and laid back then Kaya’s since it is off the road a bit more.
Go Apple Picking
Another activity, especially if you love apples, or maybe baking with apples. Apple picking season is usually late August- end of October but can vary.
Mercer Orchards
Probably the most popular one in North, Ga. Mercer Orchards can get very busy. So if you plan to visit here I recommend going on the weekdays if possible of getting there early on weekends! You can stay a whole day here as they do have a winery, u-pick apples, a deli and market. There apple cider donuts are very tasty but because they are so popular you practically have to fight other for them. Its an unfortunate situation and how busy it is takes away from the experience. If you are able to visit on a weekday, I image it would be less busy then.
BJ Reese
Located in Elijah, GA, BJ Reese Apple Orchards is open daily from August 24th to October 31st. They have a U-Pick apple field and lots of farm activities such as slides, tracker rides, apple canon and more! They also have a market and bakery selling delicious apple cider donuts!
R & A Orchards
Also located in Ellijay, R & A Orchards is a charming family-owned farm offering a U-Pick apple experience and U-Cut flowers from September to October. Visitors can enjoy the beauty of the orchard while selecting their favorite apples and flowers. The farm also features a market and café, where you can savor their delectable hand pies and other homemade treats!
Go Flower Picking
Fausett Sunflower Farms
Fausett Sunflower Farms is a stunning sunflower field located in North Georgia. For just $5, you can wander through the golden blooms, snapping photos and soaking up the sunshine. While you can’t take cut your own sunflowers, the farm’s market offers fresh-cut flowers, along with local honey, t-shirts, and other goodies. Best of all, it’s only a quick 5-minute drive from Burt’s Pumpkin Patch, making it the perfect combo for a fall day trip!
Washington Farms
In addition to the popular pumpkin patch and fun activities, Washington Farms boasts a stunning sunflower and zinnia field. Entrance to both is included with your farm admission. For those looking to take some beautiful flowers home, you can cut a bouquet of zinnias at an additional cost.
R & A Orchards
In addition to U-Picking apples, R & A Orchards also offer U-Pick flowers! Enjoy a scenic tractor ride to the flower fields, where you can explore a vibrant array of blooms, capture unforgettable photos, and create your own beautiful bouquet.
Cozy Mountain Getaway
Another great way to enjoy a fall weekend is by booking a cozy cabin in the woods! Enjoy a relaxing getaway in Dahlonega at the Tip Top Tree House, located only 15 minutes from the town square. This cabin is nestled back in the woods, giving you privacy and making it such a peaceful place to stay. The space can sleep four guests but is perfect for a romantic getaway. Complete with a large Jacuzzi in the loft for relaxing and a pool/air hockey table for game night. The Airbnb is very spacious, with a kitchen complete with everything you’ll need to cook. (there isn’t an oven but there is a toaster oven & stove).
One thing to note is some 2 wheel drive vehicles may struggle with the driveway. The host does provide a golf cart to get down the drive away and back up to your car!
Fall Activities near Atlanta
Pick out a few activities from this list or tackle them all for a fun-filled fall season. Embrace the season’s charm, create unforgettable memories, and savor every moment of this magically time of year!
