Helen, Georgia, is a hidden gem in the Blue Ridge Mountains, offering a perfect mix of relaxation, adventure, and Southern charm—making it an ideal destination for a girls’ trip. Known for its Bavarian-style village, scenic landscapes, wineries, spas, and outdoor adventures, Helen has something for every group of friends looking to create unforgettable memories.
In this guide, we’ll cover:
- The best activities for a girls’ getaway in Helen, GA
- The top wineries, spas, and restaurants to visit
- Exciting outdoor adventures and shopping spots
- Tips for planning the perfect trip
Whether you’re planning a weekend retreat or an extended stay, this guide is a proper Helen GA itinerary that will help you make the most of your time in Helen.
Start Your Trip with a Spa Day: Relax & Recharge
A girls getaway in Georgia should include some well-deserved pampering. Helen offers excellent spa and wellness retreats, perfect for relaxing after a long day of exploring.
Top Spas in Helen:
- The Spa at Valhalla Resort – Luxury spa treatments with stunning mountain views.
- Nacoochee Crossing Wellness Center – Specializing in holistic treatments and massages.
- Serenity Cellars Spa – A unique experience combining spa services and wine tasting.
Consider booking a couples’ or group spa package for a complete relaxation experience.
Bavarian Charm of Downtown Helen: Shop, Snap & Stroll
Helen’s downtown area is designed like a Bavarian village, featuring unique boutiques, souvenir shops, and European-style architecture. It’s a fantastic place to shop, take photos, and enjoy a laid-back afternoon.
Best Places to Shop:
- Tim’s Wooden Toys – Handmade wooden gifts and souvenirs.
- Hansel & Gretel Candy Kitchen – Famous for chocolates and homemade fudge.
- Glassblowing Shop – Offers live glassblowing demonstrations and handcrafted glass art.
Try These Fun Outdoor Activities in Helen, GA
If your group loves nature and adventure, Helen has plenty to offer. From hiking and ziplining to river tubing, there’s no shortage of outdoor activities.
Best Outdoor Activities in Helen:
| Activity | Description | Best Time to Visit |
|---|---|---|
| Tubing on the Chattahoochee River | A fun and relaxing float down the river, ideal for summer. | May – September |
| Hiking to Anna Ruby Falls | A short scenic hike leading to a breathtaking waterfall. | Year-round |
| Ziplining at Unicoi State Park | Thrilling zipline courses with incredible mountain views. | Spring – Fall |
Tip: If visiting in summer, river tubing is a must! Rent from Cool River Tubing or Helen Tubing & Waterpark.
Best Bars & Live Music Spots in Helen: Turn Up the Night
Fun things to do with friends in Helen GA never end, Helen may be a small town, but it offers a vibrant nightlife scene with fun bars, beer gardens, and live music venues.
Best Nightlife Spots in Helen:
- The Hayloft Tavern – A lively spot for drinks, dancing, and live music.
- Bigg Daddys Restaurant & Tavern – Great for casual drinks and local bands.
- Bodensee Restaurant & Bar – Perfect for authentic German beers and cocktails.
For a fun night out, consider a pub crawl through Helen’s beer halls and taverns.
Must-Try Restaurants & Hidden Food Gems in Helen, GA
Food lovers will appreciate Helen’s mix of German, Southern, and American cuisine. From hearty bratwursts to classic comfort food, there’s plenty to enjoy.
Top Restaurants in Helen, GA:
- Hofer’s Bakery & Café – Famous for authentic German pastries and brunch.
- Cowboys & Angels – Southern-style food with great cocktail selections.
- Muller’s Famous Fried Cheese Café – Perfect for cheese lovers and European-inspired dishes.
For a special girls’ night dinner, book a table at The Heidelberg—a cozy restaurant with stunning balcony views.
Smart Prep for a Perfect Girls’ Trip to Helen, GA
Planning a girls’ getaway sounds fun, but getting it right takes more than just picking a date. From booking the right place to packing essentials and syncing schedules, great trips begin with thoughtful prep.
This section walks you through everything you should lock down before hitting the road—without the stress.
1. Lock in the Right Dates
Avoid last-minute booking chaos by finalizing your travel dates at least 3–4 weeks in advance. Spring and fall are peak times in Helen, especially during Oktoberfest. If you want fewer crowds, consider a weekday or early-season escape.
Pro Tip: Check local events and festivals to either plan around or make the most of them.
2. Choose a Stay That Matches Your Vibe
Cabin? Cottage? Chic downtown Airbnb?
Helen offers a wide range of stays—but book early if you’re traveling during a popular season.
Think about:
- Walking distance to shops and nightlife
- Outdoor amenities like firepits or hot tubs
- Group-friendly space with shared hangout zones
Booking Tip: Read reviews, and confirm parking and sleeping arrangements before finalizing.
3. Plan Around Everyone’s Energy Level
Every group has a mix of adventurers, relaxers, and planners. Talk it out before you go—are you tubing and hiking, or shopping and sipping wine? Or both?
Set realistic expectations so no one feels rushed or left out. It’s okay to split up during the day and meet back for dinner.
4. Reserve What Matters
Popular spots like Valhalla Spa, The Heidelberg, or Cool River Tubing can book out fast, especially on weekends.
Make advance reservations for:
- Spas and wine tastings
- Adventure activities (like ziplining or tubing)
- Restaurants with limited seating or group restrictions
This avoids the frustration of waiting in long lines or missing out entirely.
5. Think “Insta-Worthy,” But Pack Smart
Helen is as photogenic as it gets—cobblestone streets, waterfalls, wineries, and more. But pack light and smart:
- A cute outfit for wine tastings
- Sneakers for walking/hiking
- A light layer for cool evenings
- Swimsuit for spas or river tubing
Bring a small crossbody bag—it’s a lifesaver for hands-free exploring.
6. Prep the Playlist & Car Snacks
Whether you’re road-tripping from Atlanta or flying in, don’t overlook the journey.
A curated playlist, comfy travel wear, and some go-to snacks can turn the drive into part of the fun.
Make it a memory from the start—not just a destination.
7. Have a Loose Plan, But Leave Room to Roam
Helen has a charm that begs for slow strolls and spontaneous stops. Build a loose itinerary with anchor points (spa, tubing, dinner), but leave space to wander into boutiques or chill by the river.
Up Next: Your Ultimate Checklist
Now that the prep work is in place, let’s get into the quick-glance checklist—so nothing gets missed in the excitement.
Don’t Forget These Essentials: Must-take Objects for You
Let’s be real, preparation isn’t the fun part, but forgetting something on a girls’ trip? That’s a vibe killer. Whether you’re packing the perfect outfits, reserving that must-do spa session, or just making sure you’ve got snacks for the ride—this quick checklist will keep you ahead of the game.
Skim it, screenshot it, or send it to your group chat. It’s your no-stress, ready-to-go prep guide:
| ✅ What You’ll Need | 💡 Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Comfy walking shoes | Helen’s charming streets and scenic trails aren’t made for heels |
| Light layers & jacket | Weather can shift—especially in the mountains |
| Swimsuit | For tubing, spa days, or that hot tub moment |
| Cute dinner outfit | Wineries and evening dinners call for a little glam |
| Portable charger | You’ll want your phone for photos and maps all day |
| Small crossbody bag | Hands-free shopping and exploring = freedom |
| Pre-booked activities | Avoid sold-out signs at spas, tubing rentals, and restaurants |
| Snacks & water | For the road trip and between activities |
| Group playlist | Set the vibe from the first mile together |
Pro Tip: Share the list in your group chat and have everyone tick off their own essentials. Less stress, more fun.
Now that you’ve got the prep out of the way, it’s time to enjoy every moment in Helen!
Conclusion: Mastery of the Whole
Helen isn’t just a beautiful mountain town—it’s a whole vibe for memory-making. From spa days and scenic hikes to wine tastings and cozy dinners, it offers the perfect mix of bonding, adventure, and a little well-deserved indulgence.
Whether you’re planning a relaxing weekend escape or a full-blown girls’ getaway, Helen has everything to help you hit pause, laugh a little louder, and enjoy life with your favorite people.
Now it’s your turn.
Start organizing your trip, book those must-visit spots early, and don’t forget to pack the matching outfits—this is one girls’ trip you’ll be talking about for years.
Tag your travel buddies and start planning today!
And hey—if you’ve been to Helen before, share your favorite moments in the comments. Let’s help the next group of girls plan the perfect trip too.
FAQs (People also want to know)
1. What are the best things to do in Helen, GA for a girls trip?
Spa days, wine tastings, tubing on the river, downtown shopping, and evening nightlife are top picks.
2. Is Helen, Georgia a good destination for a weekend girls getaway?
Yes, it’s perfect for a 2–3 day trip with a mix of relaxation and adventure.
3. What should I wear on a girls trip to Helen, GA?
Bring comfy walking shoes, cute brunch outfits, a swimsuit, and a light jacket for evenings.
4. Are there wineries in Helen, GA good for groups?
Absolutely. Try Serenity Cellars, Yonah Mountain Vineyards, or Habersham Winery.
5. What time of year is best for visiting Helen with friends?
Spring and fall are ideal for scenery and festivals, while summer is great for tubing.
6. What restaurants in Helen are good for girls night out?
The Heidelberg, Cowboys & Angels, and Bodensee are perfect for dinner and drinks.
7. Can I do outdoor activities in Helen during a girls trip?
Yes, you can hike, go tubing, zipline, or visit waterfalls like Anna Ruby Falls.
8. How many days should I spend in Helen, Georgia?
Plan for 2–3 days to enjoy the highlights, or 4–5 for a slower, more relaxed pace.
