This Town is a Little Bavaria!

🎉 Fun Fact: Helen is only about two hours from Atlanta, making it an ideal weekend getaway destination for those looking to experience both Bavarian culture and mountain beauty! 🚗

What Makes Helen Special?

🎉 Fun Fact: Helen is home to the Alpine Mini Golf, one of the largest miniature golf courses in the Southeast, themed with Bavarian flair! ⛳

Helen stands out with its unique mix of Bavarian culture and mountain adventure:

• Bavarian Village: Strolling through downtown Helen feels like stepping into a Bavarian village, with its half-timbered buildings, charming streets lined with flower boxes, and German signage. The town’s transformation in the 1960s has created a distinctive, welcoming atmosphere that draws visitors from near and far.

• Chattahoochee River: The river runs through the heart of Helen and provides opportunities for tubing, kayaking, and fishing. The scenic waters and surrounding mountain views make it a perfect spot for relaxation and outdoor fun.

• German-Inspired Dining: Helen’s dining scene is rooted in its Bavarian influence, with restaurants like The Heidi’s German Restaurant & Pub and Bavarian Inn Restaurant serving up delicious German dishes like bratwurst, schnitzel, and pretzels. The town is also known for its beer gardens where you can enjoy German brews and traditional fare.

• Festivals and Events: Helen is home to several popular festivals, including the Helen Oktoberfest, one of the largest Oktoberfest celebrations in the U.S. The town also hosts the Bavarian Christmas celebration, complete with a Christmas market, live music, and traditional holiday foods.

Happening in Helen: December Events

🎉 Fun Fact: December in Helen kicks off the holiday season with festive events that showcase the town's Bavarian flair! 🎄

• Helen Christmas Lighting Ceremony (December 1): Kick off the holiday season with the Helen Christmas Lighting Ceremony, where the entire town lights up with thousands of Christmas lights. It’s the perfect way to get into the holiday spirit with music, festivities, and local treats.

• Bavarian Christmas Market (December 1-24): Experience the holiday magic at the Bavarian Christmas Market, featuring local vendors selling handmade goods, holiday treats, and festive gifts. Enjoy the twinkling lights, music, and German-inspired decorations as you shop for unique holiday gifts.

• Santa’s Visit (December 15): Bring the family for Santa’s Visit at the Bavarian Village. Enjoy holiday crafts, hot chocolate, and a chance to meet Santa Claus himself in this festive setting.

• Christmas Dinner at the Alpine Village Inn (December 24-25): Celebrate Christmas Eve or Christmas Day with a delicious holiday dinner at the Alpine Village Inn. Featuring traditional German fare and holiday favorites, it’s the perfect way to enjoy a cozy meal with family.

What to Do in Helen

🎉 Fun Fact: Helen's natural surroundings and Bavarian-inspired charm make it a wonderful destination for outdoor lovers and culture seekers alike! ⛰️

There’s plenty to do in Helen, whether you’re enjoying local attractions or exploring the great outdoors:

• Unicoi State Park & Lake: Just minutes from downtown Helen, Unicoi State Park is a nature lover's paradise. With hiking trails, a beautiful lake, and plenty of space for picnics, it’s a fantastic spot for family fun or a peaceful escape into nature.

• Alpine Mini Golf: For some family-friendly fun, visit Alpine Mini Golf, where you can play 18 holes surrounded by Bavarian-style architecture and lush mountain views.

• Anna Ruby Falls: A short drive from Helen, Anna Ruby Falls offers a scenic hike through the forest to the base of two stunning waterfalls. It’s one of the most popular natural attractions in the area, especially beautiful in the fall when the leaves change color.

• Shopping and Dining: Explore the quirky shops along Helen’s Main Street for unique gifts, local art, and Bavarian-inspired souvenirs. Afterward, enjoy authentic German dishes at local eateries or grab a cold beer at one of the town’s beer gardens.

Image of the Day: Helen, Georgia