Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Helen, Georgia, transforms into a charming Bavarian Christmas village during the holidays. From festive lights to cozy restaurants and picturesque scenery, this little town offers the ultimate Hallmark Movie Christmas experience. Follow our itinerary to make the most of your visit and watch the YouTube video above to see how we did it all.
A few notes
- Hotels can be pricy during the Christmas season
- Plan on $20-$30 for lunch and dinner
- The Christmas market is only a few weekends each year.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at Hofer’s Bakery & Cafe, a local favorite known for authentic German pastries. Treat yourself to a hot coffee and a flaky strudel, or dive into a plate of sausages and eggs to fuel up for the day ahead. The cozy Alpine decor and holiday ambiance make it the perfect spot to kick off your Christmas adventure.
After breakfast, head to Anna Ruby Falls, a 10-minute drive from downtown Helen. The half-mile paved trail to the falls is easy and scenic, perfect for soaking in the season’s beauty. The stunning double waterfall, surrounded by towering trees, offers an amazing end point for a short hike.
On your way back to town, make a quick pit stop at Fred’s Famous Peanuts, a local roadside gem. Warm up with a bag of freshly boiled peanuts or sample some of their homemade jams and treats. It’s a simple but authentic taste of Georgia you won’t want to miss. I wasn’t a fan of boiled peanuts but I loved the peanut brittle and the ciders.
For lunch, head to Mueller’s Cheese Cafe, a fun spot specializing in European-inspired comfort food. Indulge in their famous fried cheese if you are feeling up for it. The friendly, laid-back vibe makes it an excellent spot to relax and recharge before your afternoon adventures.
For a bit of excitement, head to the Georgia Mountain Coaster, a must-try attraction in Helen. This alpine coaster winds through the hills, offering twists, turns, and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. It is a little pricy at $17 a person for the short ride, but we had a lot of fun.
If you visit during the first two weekends in December, spend your afternoon wandering through Helen’s Christkindlmarkt, the town’s enchanting German Christmas market. Browse the festive stalls with handcrafted ornaments, holiday gifts, and traditional German goodies.
Afterward, treat yourself to some treats at Hansel and Gretel’s Candy Kitchen, where you can pick up homemade fudge or a bag of festive chocolates to take home.
For dinner, immerse yourself in the holiday spirit with a meal at Bodensee Restaurant, a cozy Bavarian eatery. They serve schnitzels, sausages, and authentic German dishes, and I recommend you get the sampler to try a little bit of everything. Pair your meal with a traditional beer or mulled wine for the ultimate festive touch.
End your day by strolling through Helen’s glowing streets, lit up with dazzling Christmas lights. The town’s holiday decor transforms the Bavarian-style buildings into a magical winter wonderland. Enjoy the festive music, take in the sights, and soak up the Christmas cheer as you wrap up your day.
Helen, Georgia, offers a Christmas experience that feels like you are stepping into a Hallmark movie. With delicious food, stunning scenery, and festive activities, this itinerary is your guide to a truly magical day. Have you spent Christmas in Helen? Share your favorite spots or traditions in the comments below!
