Blake Walsh

25 Best Things to Do in Blairsville, GA

  • Published 2023/03/06

Blairsville is located on the Northern border of the US state of Georgia.

It is a small city with a population of less than 1,000.

So, if you are someone based out of the city and lead a hectic life, this place might be the most appropriate choice of holiday destination for you.

Blairsville has a rich cultural history that will appeal to the historical traveler in you.

Several festivals are hosted by the city’s community and administration every year, some of which can take you back in time, given their traditional origin.

So, if you are convinced that this is the next destination that you can choose for a vacation with your family, read on and get to know more about this fascinating city.

These are the best things to do in Blairsville, Georgia:

Visit the Mesmerizing Lake Nottely

The waters of Lake Nottely

Lyle Dorman / Shutterstock.com

Lake Nottley is an important part of Blairsville.

Apart from being one of the most beautiful locations in the area, it also helps in controlling floods and generating power.

It lies on the Southeastern edge of the Georgia River.

The reservoir is surrounded by the Chattahoochee National Forest and its mountains and valleys.

There’s also a beach and camping site, making it perfect for an extended family picnic.

Additionally, there is an option for wildlife viewing.

Nottely Lake has also been enhanced with rainbow trout, striped bass, and other fish so that visitors can enjoy fishing as well.

They also have a museum and recreational center for visitors.

Spend Some Time at Trackrock Campground

If you are enthusiastic about horses and horseback riding, this is the place for you.

Trackrock Campground provides its guests with several options.

The camping sites are 95 levels, uncrowded, and shady.

Tents, pop-ups, and RVs are also allowed, with a maximum capacity of 40 people.

One can rent one- or two-bedroom cabins and have a laid-back couple of days.

The cabins are fully furnished and equipped with all modern facilities, along with a kitchen and a bath.

The Chattahoochee National Forest surrounds the area, providing a fantastic view and ambiance.

They provide horseback riding, riding lessons, swimming, fishing, fishing lessons, and much more.

They also welcome Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts, church groups, and camping groups.

Explore the Union County History Trail

 Union County Courthouse

Gwringle, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Blairsville has a rich historical and cultural past.

It is interesting to learn about the area, the community, and its origin.

Taking the Union County History Trail can be an enriching experience.

Until now, 17 locations have been identified as more than 50 years old.

You can visit these to find out more about the locality.

There are two museums on the trail, namely the Vogel State Park and Museum and the Mountain Life Museum, which you can visit.

You can also pay your tribute to Civil War soldiers who rest at the Old Blairsville Cemetery.

To get the real experience of daily life in the county, visit Sunrise Grocery and Alexander’s Store.

Spend a Day at Meeks Park

A couple relaxing in Meeks Park

Blulz60 / Shutterstock.com

On Highway 515, a mile west of Blairsville, lies one of the most beautiful parks in North Georgia.

Meeks Park was established in 1992 and is named after Bill Meeks.

If you are looking for a spot to spend a day out in the open and soak in some fresh air and sun, this might be the best place to do that.

Meeks Park is also an excellent place to take your kids, as they have a playground, basketball courts, batting cages, and ball fields.

If you are looking for things to do with your partner, this place is also suited for a romantic picnic amidst nature trails.

If you are on a business trip, you can enjoy a meeting over some golf at the disc golf course as well.

Have an Enriching Experience at the Georgia Mountain Research and Education Center

One of the most exciting things about traveling is the amount of knowledge you can gain from your surroundings.

Blairsville has just the apt place for this: the Georgia Mountain Research and Education Center.

Established in 1930, this place expands over an area of 445 acres.

They mainly assist local farmers with the help of the extensive research that they conduct.

The place also holds educational seminars and interactive workshops for people.

The public park on their campus is as beautiful as the location itself.

Guided tours are available every week, which includes tours of the Woodland Medicine Trail.

If you or your children are interested to learn about how native herbs are grown and what they are used for, this is the best place to do that.

Enjoy the View from the Top of Brasstown Bald

History marker of Brasstown Bald

Sean Pavone / Shutterstock.com

Have you ever wanted to be present at multiple places at the same time?

If that is the aim, you should go for the Brasstown Bald Summit Trail.

Brasstown Bald is the highest point in the state of Georgia.

Scenic view of Brasstown Bald's observation deck

Sean Pavone / Shutterstock.com

If the sky is clear, you can see the states of Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee from this point, all at the same time.

There is a visitor center for the people taking the trail, which exhibits several historical and geological items.

There is a shuttle service that operates throughout the day.

You can also hike to the top, but in that case, you will need to start early because it closes at 5:00 p.m.

Aerial view of Brasstown Bald

RodClementPhotography / Shutterstock.com

Eat at The Hole In The Wall

Blairsville is full of trails, parks, and national parks.

What do you do before or after a day of hiking?

You eat, of course.

For a satisfying meal, head to The Hole In The Wall, one of the most popular restaurants in Blairsville.

Established in 1931, this restaurant should be on the must-visit list of every tourist planning to spend a few days here.

Their menu is simple and compact.

They serve breakfast throughout the day.

In case you are planning to have dinner, you have to try out their Country Fried Steak, which is served with brown or sausage gravy.

If you visit for breakfast before a long day of trekking or hiking, get their Hot Mess scramble, which has a little bit of everything from potatoes to sausages.

Spend a Lazy Afternoon Shopping around the City

Is any trip ever complete without shopping?

Blairsville has a variety of grocery stores, fine boutiques, and shops that sell specialized goods.

Visit Rustic Mountain Decor to pick up some home decor items for your home or a loved one.

If you are fond of jewelry, pay a visit to Origami Owl to check out their cute pieces.

Meanwhile, if you are fond of antiques, Victoria’s Antiques is the place for you.

Blairsville also has a thrift store called S.A.F.E Thrift, where you can indulge in sustainable fashion.

You can pick up some locally sourced flowers from The Flower Garden, too.

Have a Romantic Time at Odom Springs Vineyards

If you are on a romantic getaway with your partner, this is the place you have to go,

Odom Springs Vineyards is a family-owned vineyard tucked in the mountains of North Georgia.

This is the perfect spot for a surprise proposal or anniversary celebration.

The vineyard also has a lodge that is actually the owner’s childhood home.

It has one master bedroom and two other bedrooms, along with a deck, a kitchen, and a laundry room.

Groups of up to 12 people can visit the vineyard at one time.

Earl’s Reserve, an award-winning wine, is their bestseller; and although you shouldn’t miss it, it is only available periodically.

Visit Grumpy Old Men Brewing

First opened in 2012, this microbrewery is the talk of the town.

Their motto is, “If we don’t like it, we don’t drink it. If we don’t drink it, we don’t sell it.”

This assures the quality and flavor of beer that you will find here.

Visit the brewery for some locally grown beer.

While you’re at it, grab some cool merchandise from their shop.

In case you are wondering what to binge on while drinking their beer, Jeff’s Hot Dogs, which is just outside the brewery, provides customers with some of the best hot dogs in the area.

In a way, they complement the super smooth beer that is served inside Grumpy Old Men Brewing.

Check Out the Union County Farmers Market

Blairsville is majorly an agricultural community.

For the people of the county, farming is not just an occupation but is their way of life.

During your stay in the city, you will hear a lot about farming and agriculture.

The Union County Farmers Market is the place that you need to visit to see the produce that the local community is proud of.

You will not only have access to the fresh produce but will also get to meet the people who bring them to your plate.

Everyone needs to go through this experience to be grateful to the people who work hard throughout the year to feed everyone.

Take Your Kids to Lasso the Moon Alpaca Farm

While there is a range of wildlife viewing opportunities in Blairsville, it also has an alpaca farm.

Take your kids to Lasso the Moon Alpaca Farm for an immersive experience with the sweetest alpacas.

Guided tours are available so kids and families can see the alpacas in their natural habitat.

The tours also include the procedure of caring for them.

Such an activity during a vacation can be an enriching, social, and emotional experience for children of all ages.

Pay a Visit to The Herb Crib

Situated away from the hustle and bustle of the city, The Herb Crib is the perfect getaway for people who are tired of modern-day struggles.

Located in the middle of exotic greenery, this place will give you the ultimate rustic vibes.

You can learn about herbs, their historical backgrounds, their medicinal use, and much more.

You can also purchase herbs and learn to grow your own.

The Herb Crib also provides a number of workshops, such as soap making and herbal medicine making.

If you truly believe in the healing powers of nature, this is the place that you cannot miss at any cost.

Participate in Blairsville’s Exciting Festivals

The Blairsville community is enthusiastic when it comes to celebrating special occasions.

There are tons of festivals that take place in the city, so plan your trip around them to have more fun.

The Sorghum Festival held during the month of October, the Spring Arts and Crafts Festival held in May, and the Green Bean Festival on the last weekend of July are the most famous annual festivals in Blairsville that you should not miss.

A number of mountain festivals are also hosted by the various mountain parks.

Apart from that, Memorial Day Parades and Fourth of July celebrations are also an important part of the Blairsville community’s life.

Participate in at least one of these to understand the people and the place better.

Sample Italian Meals at Michaelee’s Italian Life Caffe

Michaelee’s Italian Life Caffe is a locally owned and family-run restaurant that was established in 2006.

If you want to try out some of the best Italian dishes in the area, this is the place to eat.

Their must-try menu items include their chef-crafted salads, such as the chilled chicken wedge salad and the chocolate chicken salad.

They also offer Fusili Bolognese, Pasta Sorrento, and Beef Ravioli.

If any of those are appealing to you, then give them a shot.

However, if none of them sound like your cup of tea, there’s a wide array of other options available to you.

Appreciate the Local Cuisine at The Sawmill Place

If you want a taste of Blairsville’s local cuisine, head on over to The Sawmill Place.

It is a cabin eatery and market that sources all its ingredients from local farmers and growers, so you can be sure that everything is fresh and grown with love and care.

The recipes they use have also been passed down from one generation to another; they’re tried and tested, and everyone who gets a taste of the food served at The Sawmill Place walks away satisfied.

They have their own market where you can shop for snacks and artisan goods as well, so try to purchase a souvenir from them after your meal.

Try Cuban Dishes at Dan’s Grill

Authentic and delicious Cuban food is hard to come by, but luckily, Dan’s Grill is here to give you the best dining experience ever while you’re in Blairsville.

Sample their beef entrees, such as the Palomilla steak or the Ropa Vieja; you definitely won’t regret it.

If you’re a vegetarian, don’t worry because they have options for you, too.

Try out the veggie burger, wrap, or lover’s plate.

Every dish they serve is amazing and unforgettable all at once.

Satisfy Your Taste Buds at Rib Country BBQ

Rib Country BBQ is a family-friendly and locally owned restaurant where you’ll find all your rib and meat needs.

Choose from their vast array of lunch specials; you’ll never be left hungry or unsatisfied in a place like this.

Try out their baby back ribs, barbecued chicken, or pulled pork.

They also have a lot of sandwiches to choose from in case you’re looking for a lighter meal that can be eaten on the go.

Whatever you choose, it’s sure to be delicious and contain that old country taste that everyone just loves.

Have a Cup of Joe at Abide Coffee

Coffee is something many people can’t do without.

If you consider yourself the type of person who can’t go a day without coffee, then you’ll surely find yourself craving a cup of joe on your trip.

Abide Coffee, located at 214C Young Harris Street, is there to fulfill all your needs and give you the best-tasting cup of coffee without much complications.

Check out the different flavors they offer and order yourself a satisfying cup.

Do you prefer sweet drinks, or are you someone who takes their coffee black?

Whatever the case, you’ll find what you’re looking for at this shop.

If you’re interested in tasting more, the shop also sells artisan beans, so you can bring these delicious drinks home with you.

Discover the Early Days of Farm Life at Reece Farm and Heritage Center

Take your family for a 20th-century farm experienceat theReece Farm and Heritage Center.

This local attraction is located on Gainesville Highway and is also known as the Byron Herbert Reece Farm.

Drop by the restored barns and check out the chicken house and corn crib, and other structures like the spring house and the smokehouse.

Your little ones will enjoy meeting and petting the farm animals and seeing the fruit and vegetable crops in the area.

You can also view the state-of-the-art exhibits that depict the life and works of writer, farmer, and poet Byron Herbert Reece and other displays including the 1900s Appalachian farming methods.

Head out to the visitor center or see what you can find in the gift shop; likewise, you can have a relaxing picnic at the tables.

Reece Farm and Heritage Center also offers the Creekside Deck and The Betty Sellers Memorial Amphitheater for special occasions like weddings.

Buy Assorted Produce at 7 M Family Farms

If you’re looking for farm-fresh produce and assorted food products, you’re sure to find them at7 M Family Farms.

This family-owned farm store is open all year round and is located on Crump Creek Road.

They combine open-field farming, hydroponic, and greenhouse methods to ensure all vegetables and fruits sold at the store are pesticide-free and non-GMO.

Find an array of vegetables from carrots, cucumbers, and peppers, to spinach, celery and so much more; likewise, you can get free-range eggs by the dozen.

You can also purchase fresh seafood like Pei Mussels, Little Neck Clams, Middle Neck Clams, and Live Maine Lobsters.

Likewise, they also sell assorted local breads, pies, cookies, and food products like jellies and pickles, along with local handcrafted arts and crafts.

If you’re looking for a place to host a party on a Friday night dinner, The Cafe is open for reservations; let them know your preferred menu from appetizers to desserts.

Enjoy shopping for fresh goods at 7 M Family Farms.

Savor Wine and Brew Selections at The Wine Shoppe

The Wine Shoppeon Town Square offers you personalized service which makes it unique from other wine shops in the area.

Owners Todd and Larissa Littler took over the business in 2018 continuing the passion to share wine and craft beer experiences with its guests.

Find what suits your taste with their extensive collection of domestic and imported wines.

They also have unique craft beer selections sourced from local and domestic breweries; you can get them by package or growler fills.

Buyers will enjoy assorted on-tap craft beers each time with the shop’s rotating growler fills selection.

Some of the brands they carry include Grumpy Old Men Brewing Co., Urban Tree Ciders, Creature Comforts Brewing Co., and Copper Hill Brewing Co., among others.

You can also choose from their fine cigar selections you can give on special occasions.

Drop by The Wine Shoppe from Monday to Saturday.

Visit the Old Union County Courthouse Museum

Exterior of the Old Union County Courthouse Museum

John Trainor, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

For other local historic attractions, you can visit theUnion County Courthouse Museumon Town Square.

The building was built in 1899 and designed by J.W. Golucke, a notable architect during the early days.

After it was abandoned and neglected for several decades, it was about to be demolished until the Union County Historical Society made efforts to restore and maintain the structure.

Observe the details of the old courthouse exteriors and step inside to browse through resources and displays that represent Blairsville and surrounding areas.

The Union County Courthouse Museum building is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Join the Festivities at the Blairsville Scottish Festival and Highland Games

You’ll be excited to see and join the attractions at the annual Blairsville Scottish Festival and Highland Games.

One of the most-awaited local events, the two-day family-friendly festival takes place on a weekend in June at Meeks Park.

Since 2004, guests are welcome to join the Scots for a colorful parade, demonstrations, Scottish crafts, and traditional games.

Your little ones will surely enjoy watching the Border Collies show their herding skills, the majestic falcons and other birds of prey, and some livestock, too.

Let your little tots go through the Scottish Castle Space Walk or enjoy some face painting with famous Scottish emblems; likewise, they’ll be excited to take the train ride along the banks of Butternut Creek.

Kids can swing and aim for a hole-in-one at the 4-hole miniature golf course; they can also drop by the different clan and family tents, gather some information, and win a prize for participating.

Older kids can join some kids’ training and competitions like the caber toss, sheaf toss, or putting a stone.

And of course, you’ll enjoy the action-packed adult games like the Open Stone, Heavy and Light Weight events, Heavy Hammer, and Caber and Sheaf Toss.

Catch the Honoring of Clans and awarding of the Best Clan Tent Competition, along with entertaining performances like traditional Scottish dances and Pipe Band Music.

There are also live music demos for Bagpipe, Scottish Fiddle, and Scottish Harp that might catch your interest.

The Blairsville Scottish Festival and Highland Games also host an array of vendors selling traditional Scottish items, food specialties, and clothing you can purchase and take home.

Other Things to Do Nearby

Go on a Series of Waterfall Hikes

Cascades of Helton Creek Falls

Jim Vallee / Shutterstock.com

There are several beautiful waterfalls in and around Blairsville.

Depending on your expertise, you can visit these with your family.

If you are a beginner hiker, you can visit Minnehaha Falls, Helton Creek Falls, and Anna Ruby Falls.

Front view of Minnehaha Falls

Sean Pavone / Shutterstock.com

More experienced hikers can check out Hurricane Falls and Hemlock Falls.

If you are up for some real adventure, go for the Panther Creek Falls and the Raven Falls.

All these are suited for families and filled with greenery and scenic beauty.

Strong waters of Hurricane Falls

lphoto / Shutterstock.com

Final Thoughts

As there aren’t a lot of people in Blairsville, this quiet city is the perfect place for those looking to escape life in the metropolis.

On top of that, the city is rich with lovely attractions, gorgeous views, and mouth-watering food.

So, if that’s what you’re looking for, book your trip and start putting together your itinerary!

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