Itching to get out of town, Chattanoogans? Skip those pesky airport security lines and jump in your car for a road trip to Ellijay, GA instead.
From apple picking at B.J. Reece Orchards to trying out the Harvest Wrap at Back Porch Bistro — we’re spilling all the details on how to have an unforgettable time in the Apple Capital of Georgia.
📍 Essential info
- Drive time: ~1.5 hours
- Year city was established: 1834
- Est. population: 1,862
🎟️ Experience
Georgia Apple Blossom Festival, 696 First Ave., East Ellijay
This yearly event in May is free and open to the public, featuring ~70 local vendors focused on artists and craftsmen. Enjoy food, live music, and activities for the whole family.
Tabor House and Civil War Museum, 138 Spring St.
Visit this 1870s Victorian-era reconstruction period home — the oldest family home in the city — and see North Georgia’s history through artifacts from the Cherokee Indians, Civil War, and more. Note: The museum is only open from mid-March through mid-December on select days.
B.J. Reece Orchards, 9131 Hwy. 52, East Ellijay
See why they call Ellijay the Apple Capital of Georgia at this family-operated orchard. Enjoy U-pick season from August through October, a country bakery, a petting farm, pony rides, and more.
Cartecay Vineyards, 5704 Clear Creek Rd.
Resting in the Southern Appalachian Mountains, this vineyard has a tasting barn where folks can try wines made from grapes grown on the property. Every weekend, the vineyard has live music from local and regional artists.
Mountain Valley Farm Store, 2021 Homer Wright Rd.
Shop locally at this store that is located in the middle of a 300-cow working dairy — folks can even meet the farm animals including goats, calves, and bunnies. Bonus: Enjoy scenic views from the porch overlooking the huge weeping cherry trees.
Expedition Bigfoot: The Sasquatch Museum, 1934 Hwy. 515, Cherry Log, GA
Enjoy this nearby roadside attraction where you can see the country’s largest permanent display of genuine Bigfoot artifacts, life-sized exhibits, and much more.
Reece’s Cider Co., 9110 Hwy. 52, East Ellijay
Sip on hard cider made from locally grown apples sourced from right across the street at B.J. Reece’s Orchards. Check out their website for weekend happenings such as live music.
🍔 Eat
Back Porch Bistro, 10 N. Side Sq.
Located right downtown, grab a bite of hand-made sandwiches, soups, and more. Note: They also serve gluten-free and vegetarian options.
The Roof Ellijay, 16 River St.
Have great views alongside your meal at this southern rooftop kitchen and bar — all food is inspired by the culture in Appalachia.
Mountain Town Coffee at Hemlock Bazaar, 131 N. Main St.
Start your day off at this coffee lounge (formerly known as Ellijay Coffehouse) that has specialty coffee and pastries — you might want to get cozy in front of the fireplace, or bring your pup and sit at one of two pet-friendly courtyards.
The Shack of Ellijay, 118 N. Main St.
Try out this Asian fusion restaurant that serves fresh poke bowls and hot noodle bowls. Pro tip: Sip on their bubble tea.
The Butcher and Bottle, 24 River St.
This family-owned restaurant is known for its seasonal shareable plates, steaks, and fresh seafood on the menu. Have a taste of their selection either inside or on their outside patio area.
🏨 Stay
Riverfront Cabin, Ellijay, GA
Located on the Ellijay River, this cabin Airbnb has everything for a secluded and relaxing weekend including a hot tub. Guests can even sit on a little dock in the river and soak up the beautiful views — all for ~104 a night.
Dragonfly Dream Luxury Cabin Rentals, 165 Trails End Smt.
This luxury cabin rental site is a great stay for friends and family complete with close access to fun activities like zip lining. Guests can also request massages, personal grocery shopping, and more from the concierge services.
Mulberry Gap: Adventure Basecamp, 400 Mulberry Gap Rd.
If you’re looking to have a weekend immersed in nature, this is the spot for you. Spend your days mountain biking, hiking, and other outdoor activities before heading back to your campsite. This site also includes breakfast, a hot tub, campfires, and more.
Wait a minute, Chattanoogans. Before you head out the door, find the cheapest places to fill up your gas tank and stock up on road trip snacks from Ria’s Mart. Also, bookmark this map so you have no trouble finding all of our recommendations while visiting Ellijay.
Do you prefer your road trips to be 1-2 hours, or 4+ hours? Let us know.
