Helen, Georgia is nestled alongside the Chattahooche River, in north Georgia. It was once home to a large population of Cherokee Indians. Early European settlers were interested in Helen's gold and timber. As Helen entered the twentieth century, it became known as a logging town. After the logging industry collapsed, the town became quiet again, until the late 1960's when it was virtually transformed into the Bavarian village of Alpine Helen.
Today, this area is one of Georgia's largest tourist destinations- just behind Atlanta and Savannah. In fact, this region, known as Helen Valley, attracts hundreds of thousand people. Some of the most popular events are Oktoberfest and the Alpine Lights. Although large chain stores can be found in Helen, the real attraction here are the numerous Bavarian shops- complete with cuckoo clocks, German pastries and beer. Brightly painted storefronts, cobblestone alleys, and ornate flower boxes are examples of just some of the unique beauty found here. Horse drawn carriages offer visitors the opportunity to sit back and enjoy this remarkable town. It won't take long to forget you're still in Georgia (or America for that matter!)
The Museum of the Hills is a great place to begin discovering Helen. The museum offers insight into Helen's original inhabitants. The Gold Mines of Helen is another educational, yet fun for the entire family, stop. Tours of the mine, gold panning, and a nature walk are available.
For those who crave recreation, Anna Ruby Falls is a must. This is a perfect trip for families, as the path to the rare double falls is stable and paved. The Chattahoochee River, which runs through downtown Helen is an option for those who enjoy kayaking, canoeing and fishing. A real treat is floating down the Chattahoochee River in a tube. Local tubing adventure companies offer a variety of tubing tours.
Helen is located about 20 miles northeast of Dahlonega, and about 20 miles south of the North Carolina boarder, just off Hwy 75.
