Things to do in ellijay, ga in december

Ellijay, known as the apple capital of Georgia, is a quintessentially charming town, luring visitors with its heritage orchards.

A wonderland for nature lovers, this mountain also provides ample opportunities for outdoor recreation.

And, guess what?

We’re helping you experience a rocking trip here by featuring the best things to do in Ellijay, GA.

1. B.J. Reece Orchards

b.j. reece orchards

9131 GA-52
Ellijay, GA 30536
(706) 276-3048

Nestled in the breathtaking North Georgia Mountains, this family-owned orchard operates from July to December.

Why You Should Go

A visit to B.J. Reece Orchards is, no doubt, one of the top things to do in Ellijay with kids.

Not only does it feature a U-pick orchard, but it also has a host of other kid-approved attractions.

What’s more, it offers a smorgasbord of freshly baked goodies, like the fried apple pies.

What To Do

Spend a day at this orchard enjoying its attractions, including its corn maze, apple cannons, pony rides and petting farms.

Then, satisfy your taste buds with a variety of delicious treats, including apple cider donuts, cider slushies and coconut fried pies.

2. Mulberry Gap – Adventure Basecamp

mulberry gap - adventure
basecamp

400 Mulberry Gap Rd
Ellijay, GA 30540
(706) 698-2865

Situated within the Cohutta Wilderness, this rustic resort is a haven of fun for adventure junkies and nature lovers.

Why You Should Go

If you’re on the hunt for relaxing and nice places to visit in Ellijay, look no further than Mulberry Gap.

Surrounded by dramatic landscapes, this quaint oasis provides a soothing escape from your frenzied city life.

Even better, the resort has access to a plethora of outdoor pursuits, including swimming, biking and hiking.

What To Do

Start your day on a high note with the resort’s renowned breakfast.

Afterward, spend a few hours experiencing the exhilarating outdoor activities in the area.

After a day of non-stop outdoor fun, gather around the resort’s campsite and relax with old and new friends.

3. Gilmer Arts

gilmer arts

207 Dalton St
Ellijay, GA 30540
(706) 635-5605

Founded in 1979, this non-profit organization encourages an appreciation and love for all forms of art.

Why You Should Go

Searching for fun indoor stuff to do when it’s raining or cold?

Do yourself a favor, and put Gilmer Arts Gallery to your list of downtown spots to visit in Ellijay.

With a collection of artworks, theater and lessons, this gallery is sure to entertain you for hours.

What To Do

Sign up for any of their workshops, such as mosaic crafting, as well as oil and pastel painting.

You can also enjoy live music and theater at their playhouse.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Comfort Inn & Suites East Ellijay

4. Engelheim Vineyards

engelheim vineyards

127 Lakeview Rd
Ellijay, GA 30540
(706) 635-9463

Founded originally in 2007, this wine paradise has more than 20 awards for its exceptional lineup of vinos.

Why You Should Go

Engelheim is perfect for anyone looking for romantic things to do in Ellijay for couples.

With its first-class wines, easygoing vibe and gorgeous views, it has all the hallmarks of a romantic escape.

What To Do

Visit the vineyard on a Saturday afternoon and enjoy some wine and tasty bites while listening to live music.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Jasper

5. Mountain Valley Farm and Store

mountain valley farm and store

2021 Homer Wright Rd
Ellijay, GA 30536
(706) 889-1426

Set in the striking Clear Creek Valley, this family-owned farm has been operating since 1840.

Why You Should Go

Mountain Valley is one of the overlooked and unique things to see in Ellijay.

Home to a range of farm animals, this spot is a wondrous representation of the country life in Ellijay.

Moreover, it has a store that serves delectable treats, including strawberry cheesecake and ice cream.

What To Do

Meet the farm’s charming animals, like their milk cow, Elsie, and horse, Old Red.

For a relaxing experience, unwind on the porch that overlooks the verdant hillside pastures and cherry trees.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Forrest Hills Mountain Resort

6. Cohutta Wildlife Management Area

cohutta wildlife management area

12142 Old CCC Camp Rd.
Ellijay GA 30540
(706) 295-6041

Encompassing 96,503 acres, this verdant area is part of the verdant Chattahoochee National Forest.

Why You Should Go

The Cohutta Wildlife Management Area is an absolute treat for nature lovers.

Known for its lush forests and wildlife, this area is also a playground for outdoor recreation.

What To Do

There are plenty of cheap activities to do near you in this area.

You may go mountain biking, bird watching, hiking, camping and fishing.

With a permit, you can also go hunting in Cohutta Wildlife Management Area.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Comfort Inn & Suites Blue Ridge

7. Whitepath Golf Course

whitepath golf course

1156 Shenendoa Dr
Ellijay, GA 30540
(706) 276-3080

Open to the public, this 18-hole course was designed perfectly by Joe Lee and Rocky Roquemore.

Why You Should Go

Whitepath is truly a golf connoisseur’s dream.

For years, this course has been luring golfers with its rolling terrain and pleasant views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

And, did we mention that it’s pretty challenging?

What To Do

Play a round and experience mountain golf at its finest.

For newbies, you may also work on your swing at this course.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Douglas Inn & Suites, Blue Ridge, GA

8. Grapes and Ladders Vineyards and Winery

grapes and ladders vineyards and winery

2317 GA-382 W
Ellijay, GA 30540
(678) 492-9861

Established in 2013, this vineyard is home to more than 1,000 vines of zinfandel, merlot and chambourcin grapes.

Why You Should Go

Oenophiles will find their bliss at this winery.

Featuring a charming and rustic tasting room, this winery will appease your taste buds with its excellent vino varietals.

There’s also a beautiful outdoor space where visitors can take picnics and play group games.

What To Do

Check the winery’s event schedule, to partake in their special events that include food trucks and live music.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Stratford Motor Inn East Ellijay

9. R & A Orchards

r & a orchards

5505 GA-52 East
Ellijay, GA 30536
(706) 273-3821

Opened in 1947, this family-operated apple orchard has an impressive land area of 150 acres.

Why You Should Go

Traveling with kids in fall, and looking for cool attractions in Ellijay?

Why not head to R & A Orchards and let the kids experience the excitement of U-pick?

The orchard also has a cafe that serves kid-approved food, including fudge, friend pies and dumplings.

What To Do

Tour the orchard and see its strawberry farm and 38 apple varieties.

And, if you’re visiting in October or November, make sure to experience its orchard U-pick.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Budget Inn Top of Ellijay

Also See:
Summerville, GA Things to Do
What to Do in Dalton

10. Cartecay River Experience

cartecay river experience

2400 GA-52
Ellijay, GA 30536
(706) 531-4746

Open year-round, this outfitter provides thrilling adventures on the Cartecay River.

Why You Should Go

In the mood for some incredibly fun things to do in Ellijay, Georgia?

Then, go tubing or whitewater rafting at Cartecay River Experience.

And, if you’re not in the mood for splashy thrills, there are also other relaxing water activities available here.

What To Do

Get your heart racing by taking a tubing, kayaking or whitewater rafting trip on the Cartecay River.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Ellijay Inn – Downtown Ellijay

11. Build an Ark Animal Rescue

build an ark animal rescue

27 Eagle Mountain Dr
Ellijay, GA 30540
(706) 972-7250

Located on Eagle Mountain Drive, this animal rescue center is one of the most fascinating kid-friendly places to go today.

Why You Should Go

Inquisitive and animal-loving kiddos will adore this hospice.

Here, visitors can enjoy interactive experiences by cuddling and feeding rescued animals.

Moreover, visitors will gain fun tidbits about these creatures and listen to stories of every animal.

What To Do

Get an up-close encounter with cats, ducks, horses, donkeys and sheep.

You can also listen to the staff as they enthusiastically share the stories of their residents.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Comfort Inn & Suites East Ellijay

12. Panorama Orchards and Farm Market

panorama orchards
and farm market

63 Talona Mountain Rd
Ellijay, GA 30536
(706) 276-3813

Established in 1965, this family-owned orchard produces over 20 apple varieties, peaches and vegetables.

Why You Should Go

Foodies will have a blast at Panorama Orchards and Farm Market.

Open daily, this market has a range of home-made baked goods, fried pies, fruit ciders, fudge and ice cream.

Not to mention, they have sugar-free food products for the health-conscious visitors.

What To Do

Stop by the market, and score some goodies, like dressings, sauces, pickles, jellies and jams.

And, don’t forget to sample their freshly baked goods.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Bearadise

Also See:
Things to Do in Dunwoody

13. Cartecay Vineyards

cartecay vineyards

5704 Clear Creek Rd
Ellijay, GA 30536
(706) 698-9463

Cartecay started planting in 2008 with a couple of varieties, Merlot and Vidal Blanc.

Today, it’s a leading wine producer, offering an assortment of vino varietals.

Why You Should Go

Visiting Cartecay is one of our favorite things to do in Ellijay at night.

Besides their outstanding wine, this winery also exudes a soothing and easy-going ambiance.

There’s also a tasting bar with scheduled live music.

What To Do

Indulge in their delightful wines at the Tasting Bar, which feature a covered porch, a wood fire stove and a sitting area.

Likewise, you may relax at the Chimney Patio, and drink in the vineyard’s ambiance.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Star Seasons Retreat

14. Ott Farms and Vineyard

ott farms and vineyard

230 Henry Evans Rd
Ellijay, GA 30536
(706) 273-1891

Ott Farms and Vineyard beckons visitors with its exquisite mountain views and 4-acre plantation of American-French hybrid grapes.

Why You Should Go

From eye-catching mountain views to its rustic architecture, this vineyard is filled with sights to see this weekend.

Of course, this vineyard also astonishes its patrons with its delectable wine varieties.

What To Do

On weekends, visitors are treated to live music performances on the covered porch.

And, while there, head to the 1,800-square-foot tasting room, and try their wines.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Forrest Hills Mountain Resort

Related: Best Restaurants in Ellijay

15. Ellijay River Outfitters

ellijay river outfitters

88 Holt Bridge Rd
Ellijay, GA 30536
(706) 889-8697

Sitting on Hold Bridge Road, this outfitter provides rentals for a slew of exciting outdoor activities.

Why You Should Go

There’s no shortage of fantastic outdoor activities at Ellijay River Outfitters.

You can spend the entire weekend here hiking, camping and kayaking.

Plus, it hosts a monthly event with live entertainment and music.

What To Do

Explore the waters of the Blue Ridge Mountains on a kayak or canoe.

Once you’ve quenched your thirst for splashy outdoor adventures, enjoy a picnic on the designated areas at Ellijay River Outfitters.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Stratford Motor Inn East Ellijay

Also See:
Things to Do in Sandy Springs, GA

16. Veterans Memorial Bridge

veterans memorial bridge

2150 Old Highway 5 S
Ellijay, GA 30540

The Veterans Memorial Bridge was created to commemorate the contributions of Gilmer County to the armed forces since WWI.

Why You Should Go

The Veterans Memorial Bridge is ideal for anyone who’s on the lookout for free things to do in Ellijay.

To me, it’s a beautiful memorial to the veterans and a nice spot to admire the river at night.

What To Do

Cross the only pedestrian bridge spanning the Coosawattee River, and admire the stellar views.

If you want to sweat a bit, there’s a tranquil and clean walking trail running along the river.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Budget Inn Top of Ellijay

17. Ellijay Marketplace

ellijay marketplace

10 Northside Square
Ellijay, GA 30540
(706) 276-5505

Open on weekends, this market on Northside Square is the place to go for vintage finds and bargain goods.

Why You Should Go

No list of the best things to do in Ellijay, GA is complete without this weekend marketplace.

Offering a rich variety of goods, this marketplace is a flea market, vender co-op and an auction house.

And, trust me, you’ll find tons of inexpensive items at this market.

What To Do

Shop to your heart’s content without breaking the bank at this marketplace.

Some of the most common items offered here include home furnishings, handmade lace, vintage clothing, artwork and antique furniture.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Lazy Bear Lodge

List of image sources

Ellijay Things to Do: The 17 Best Activities for 2022

best things to do in
ellijay
  • B.J. Reece Orchards
  • Mulberry Gap – Adventure Basecamp
  • Gilmer Arts
  • Engelheim Vineyards
  • Mountain Valley Farm and Store
  • Cohutta Wildlife Management Area
  • Whitepath Golf Course
  • Grapes and Ladders Vineyards and Winery
  • R & A Orchards
  • Cartecay River Experience
  • Build an Ark Animal Rescue
  • Panorama Orchards and Farm Market
  • Cartecay Vineyards
  • Ott Farms and Vineyard
  • Ellijay River Outfitters
  • Veterans Memorial Bridge
  • Ellijay Marketplace

17 Best Things to Do in Ellijay, GA — Top Activities & Places to Go!

What is there to do in Ellijay Georgia in December?

Top Attractions in Ellijay.
Panorama Orchards & Farm Market. 224. Farms. ... .
Mountain Valley Farm. 234. Farms. ... .
Engelheim Vineyards. 169. Wineries & Vineyards. ... .
Reece Apple House. 163. Farms. ... .
Cartecay Vineyards. 215. Wineries & Vineyards. ... .
Ott Farms and Vineyard. Wineries & Vineyards. ... .
Hillcrest Orchards. 151. ... .
Black Bear Antiques. Antique Shops..

Does it snow in Ellijay GA in December?

The average sliding 31-day snowfall during December in Ellijay is increasing, starting the month at 0.2 inches, when it rarely exceeds 0.6 inches, and ending the month at 1.4 inches, when it rarely exceeds 4.5 inches.

Is Ellijay worth visiting?

Ellijay is an outdoor lover's wonderland. Go hiking and mountain biking on area trails, pick up seasonal produce at local orchards and farms, relax at a local winery, play golf, shop in downtown boutiques, dine with mountain views and explore the legend of Sasquatch.

What is Ellijay GA known for?

Ellijay is home to some of the best wineries in North Georgia, many of which offer tasting rooms where visitors can sample the fruit of their vineyards while surrounded by breathtaking mountain views.