Situated between the Cartecay and Ellijay rivers, the city of Ellijay, Georgia is a prime vacation spot for families seeking a historic adventure with a splash. With plenty of Ellijay vacation rentals available to book, you can have easy access to exciting activities. Spend the day on a riverfront property, head into the city to sample tasty cuisine, browse through the antique shops, or visit one of the historic museums and art galleries. Moreover, plan a day to tube down the river, or take the family to one of the downtown events. Check out the top nine things to do with kids while vacationing in Ellijay.
1. Experience Jack’s River Falls
The Cohutta Wilderness area offers your family plenty to do with young and older children. Once the kids are suited up, head to the heart of this wilderness area to find Jack’s River Falls, a popular swimming hole. You and the kids can enjoy a scenic nature hike on the way before you reach the refreshing pool that features a 20-foot high jump for the daredevils among your group. Wade in the swimming hole or grab a few pictures near the rocks of the falls to capture the moment.
2. Hike to Amicalola Falls
Get a little exercise when trekking up the 600 steps to Amicalola Falls. This hiking trail features outstanding views with each step, ultimately leading to the Southeast’s tallest cascading waterfall viewable from the large deck area. If your little ones are not up to the task, you can drive to the top to see the beauty of the falls without breaking a sweat. Take a few family photos with the falls in the background to savor these refreshing memories.
3. Take a Stroll on the Boardwalk
If the kids are itching to get a souvenir to take home, check out the unique shops on the Boardwalk in downtown Ellijay. From antique shops to specialty stores with Georgia memorabilia, there is a trinket or toy for any personality on the Boardwalk. After your family enjoys some retail therapy, stop by one of the many restaurants for lunch or dinner. Make sure your pizza lovers check out the scrumptious crusts at Seth’s. If you’re visiting the downtown area at the beginning of July each year, you may be able to see the annual Ellijay fireworks display right on the Boardwalk.
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4. Head to the Beach
Get a little sand in between your toes when taking the family to Carter’s Lake. The Harris Branch offers a beachfront area for your kids to enjoy a day of swimming. Wade in the water, build a sandcastle or catch some rays from the Georgia sun. The beachfront area is complete with benches and pavilions so you can pack a picnic lunch to enjoy in the shade while taking a break from the cool water.
5. Pick Some Peaches
Georgia is known for its juicy peaches, so you can’t vacation at Ellijay without visiting an orchard. Stop in at R&A Orchards or Panorama Orchards and Farms to purchase some peaches to take back to your vacation rental, or enjoy a day picking out your own with the kids. Several orchards offer hayrides as an added bonus. Stock up on more than just peaches with the collection of fresh fruits and vegetables. You can even dive into a fried pie for a sweet treat while visiting one of the orchards or take one home for dessert.
6. Tube on the Rivers
Often dubbed the city of waters Ellijay features three rivers ideal for tubing. Bring your own tubes for an adventurous or relaxing float in the water or contact Cartecay River Experience when venturing out on the Cartecay river. You can also rent kayaks or tubes to float down the Ellijay river and Coosawattee river from the Coosawattee Tubing Company. Don’t forget to outfit the kids in life jackets before getting wet and wild in the river.
7. Visit Mountain Valley Farm
Show the kids a variety of farm animals when visiting Mountain Valley Farm. The kids can spend the day feeding the goats and learning about grass-fed animals, while you can pick up local harvest for your dinner back at the vacation rental later in the evening. Located in the heart of Ellijay, this Wright Family Farmstead raises beef with fresh air, mountain stream water, and grass pastures.
8. Savor a Sweet Treat
One of the most popular destinations in Ellijay is Crossroads Grocery, a popular tourist attraction featuring sweet treats served daily. Savor the sweetness of the hand-dipped ice cream cones served at this prime spot or enjoy lunch or dinner snacking on the smoked salmon, sandwiches, pizza, and burgers on the menu.
9. Attend the County Fair
If you are vacationing in August, you’ve timed it right to enjoy the sights and sounds of the Gilmer County Fair. Each year, the county features entertainment fit for young and old members of your family. Browse through the quilt displays or sample the food and canning from local vendors. Live entertainment keeps the kids swaying to the beat while the rides at the fair will offer them a thrill. Don’t miss out on the special exhibits on display that include photography, flowers, crafts, and agriculture from local residents.
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