Every season in Blue Ridge has its perks, but it’s no secret that Summer is one of the most popular times to visit this charming mountain town. Blue Ridge has everything you need for a season filled with unforgettable moments. From days spent on Lake Blue Ridge to dozens of hikes to choose from! And if you’re a true foodie at heart, this town will put you in the ultimate food coma with mouth-watering eats that will have you planning your next meal before you’ve even finished your first! 

As avid travelers and locals to Blue Ridge, we know what makes this town a special place to travel to. To help you plan your summer adventures here, we put together this ultimate Blue Ridge summer bucket list to help you kick-start your plans!

1. Splash Around in Lake Blue Ridge

Lake Blue Ridge is one of the most popular lakes in North Georgia, and there’s no secret why. This sparkling lake is gorgeous in the summer and is the spot to cool off in the Georgia heat! Our guests at A Lake Escape love having private access to this lake through the swim dock and enjoying the complementary kayaks and paddleboards so they don’t have to go far to experience the lake!

2. Explore Downtown Blue Ridge

Downtown Blue Ridge is the heart and soul of this charming mountain town, offering a little something for everyone. Wander through quirky boutiques where you can pick up one-of-a-kind souvenirs, from handmade jewelry to artisanal goods. One of our favorite spots is Canoe and Oar, which is the perfect spot to find unique gifts for him or her! And when hunger strikes, downtown’s foodie scene will have you covered!

3. Indulge in Local Eats (Because Calories Don’t Count on Vacation)

Blue Ridge is a foodie’s paradise, packed with mouthwatering eats that will give you endless options; you might not be able to hit all the best spots! Enjoy mouthwatering biscuits the size of your head at Big Foot Biscuits! Poke Jons is our go-to spot for lunch and they have THE BEST poke bowls you will ever have! And when the Georgia heat gets to you, cool off with a scoop (or three) from Blue Ridge Creamery or one of the BEST milkshakes at Bob’s Eatery. And if you’re bringing your furry friend, no worries! Blue Ridge is a dog-friendly town, and if you need tips on where to eat with your furry companion, we have a blog on 10 Pet-friendly restaurants in Blue Ridge (Bring Fido approved!)

Psst! If you need a pet-friendly stay, we would love to host you! All our cabins come with a complementary dog bed and food + water bowls so your furry friends feel right at home! Book any of our pet-friendly cabins in Blue Ridge here!

4. Ride Blue Ridge Scenic Railway

Sit back, relax, and enjoy a scenic ride through the mountains on Blue Ridge Scenic Railway. This laid-back train journey follows the Toccoa River, taking you to the charming towns of McCaysville, GA, and Copperhill, TN. It’s the perfect way to take in the natural views without breaking a sweat! What’s great about this scenic train ride is that the depot is right in the middle of Downtown Blue Ridge so you can enjoy the town before you hop on!

5. Try local breweries and wineries

Blue Ridge isn’t just about the outdoors—it’s also home to some incredible local breweries and wineries that make for the perfect afternoon stop! Some of our personal faves are Grumpy Old Men brewery, Tipping Point brewery, 34th Degree, and Mercier Orchards for their hard ciders! And if you need more recommendations for breweries around Blue Ridge, we have a blog on the best breweries near Blue Ridge!

6. Chase Waterfalls

Blue Ridge is home to some of the most breathtaking waterfalls in North Georgia, and we’ve seen our fair share of them! Our favorite is Fall Branch Falls, but there are plenty of other wonderful options, like Long Creek Falls and Jacks River Falls. The hikes to these waterfalls are the perfect balance of relaxing with a few challenging uphills here and there, and the reward at the end makes it worth the hike!

8. Hike with a View 

Nothing beats a summer morning hike in the North Georgia mountains. If you’re up for a challenge, tackle Blood Mountain for one of the best panoramic views in the state. Prefer something more laid-back? The Swinging Bridge Trail is a short and sweet hike leading to a suspension bridge over the Toccoa River and is one of the most popular attractions in Blue Ridge! Another pretty trail is the Benton MacKaye Trail, which offers peaceful nature walks—perfect for sunrise or sunset. Our cabin, Above The Clouds, sits right off the Benton MacKaye trail, and our guests love having easy access for casual hikes! Want more hiking ideas? Check out our blog on the top recommended hikes in Blue Ridge, GA!

9. Float Down the Toccoa River

If you’re looking for family friendly activities in Blue Ridge, GA that perfectly blends relaxation and a bit of adventure, you have to try tubing on the Toccoa River! The cool water, gentle current, and lush scenery make for the ultimate lazy river experience. Blue Ridge has many spots to rent tubes, but we highly recommend outfitters like the Toccoa River Tubing company or Rolling Thunder River Co!

10. White Water Rafting

For those wanting a bit more thrill than tubing offers, we highly recommend white water rafting on the Toccoa/Ocoee River. Known for its thrilling rapids, this is a must-do for adventure seekers looking to make a splash. Rafting can seem intimidating for people who have never done it before, but don’t worry, there are guides to help you navigate the wild waters! The best outfitter for rafting is Rolling Thunder River Co. Get ready to paddle hard, laugh loud, and leave with unforgettable memories.

11. Zip Lining

Soar through the trees and feel the wind in your hair when you go ziplining in Blue Ridge. Glide over stunning landscapes, including lush forests, for a perspective of the area you won’t get anywhere else. One of the most popular zip lining tours in Blue Ridge is Zipline Canopy Tours of Blue Ridge. It’s perfect for all ages to enjoy everything from a quick zip to a full-on adventure tour! It’s an exhilarating way to get your heart racing while taking in the beauty of the mountains.

Ready to make this summer unforgettable?

Blue Ridge is calling, and your summer bucket list is waiting to be checked off. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a weekend escape from the everyday hustle, this charming mountain town has it all. So pack your bags, grab your sunscreen, and prepare for the ultimate summer in Blue Ridge, GA. And if you’re looking for the perfect cabin to call home while you’re here, book your stay today and make this summer one you’ll never forget!