If you’re looking for mountainside charm, Blue Ridge is definitely up there. Known for its cosy lake- and mountainside cabins and historic 1800s Downtown core, this town in northern Georgia is a gem of a destination for friends, couples, and families alike.
With Blue Ridge being relatively small, it’s easy to think your options are limited in terms of accommodation. In fact, there’s actually a lot on offer, which can be tricky to sift through. That’s where our handy guide on where to stay in Blue Ridge comes in. We’ve got you covered with all the information you’ll need for an awesome mountain retreat.
Let’s go!
Staurolite Mountain Retreat | Best Vacation Home in Blue Ridge
Staying at this warm and welcoming modern cabin will give you an amazing base for your vacation. Lovingly decorated inside and out, this property comes with an outdoor deck, hot tub, and a fire pit. The cabin has room enough to sleep four guests.
Comfort Inn & Suites Blue Ridge | Best Hotel in Blue Ridge
Providing an easy and comfortable option for accommodation in Blue Ridge, this hotel boasts modern rooms designed with comfortable, classic furnishings. There’s the bonus of a complimentary continental breakfast, and a gin on-site.
Charming Blue Ridge Lake Cabin | Best Cabin in Blue Ridge
If you’re partial to lakeside locations, you’ll love this place. It’s situated close to the edge of Blue Ridge Lake and surrounded by woodlands. It’s a great option for a family holiday, with room to sleep 8 guests. This cabin boasts a big indoor fireplace, a huge outdoor deck situated among the trees, and access to the lake itself with its very own jetty.
Blue Ridge Downtown
Blue Ridge Downtown makes up a tiny portion of this relatively sprawling area. First settled as a railroad stop, this town features a small core that boasts brick buildings dating back to 1887.
Blue Ridge Lake Area
To the east of Downtown Blue Ridge, you’ll find the large Blue Ridge Lake. This 3,300-acre lake is actually a reservoir that was created due to the completion of the Blue Ridge Dam.
Sugar Creek
Head west of the historic Downtown area of Blue Ridge, and you’ll come across the more mountainous and remote area of town, Sugar Creek.
Blue Ridge Top 3 Neighborhoods to Stay in
Situated in north Georgia, not far from the border with Tennessee and North Carolina, the town of Blue Ridge is the place to go for a mountain retreat. There are charming brick buildings, local eateries and breweries, and a handful of attractions to hit up. The area is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, with some amazing hiking opportunities right on the doorstep.
Blue Ridge Downtown is the historic core of the town, where you’ll also find the most eateries, bars and old picturesque buildings. There’s a good choice of accommodation around this central part of town, which is a great option for first-time visitors.
Next, the Blue Ridge Lake Area is a delightful area for families traveling to Blue Ridge. With miles of shoreline and a great chunk of the Chattahoochee National Forest, there’s almost no end to the outdoor adventures you can have here. There’s a huge number of cabins here, for a secluded and peaceful getaway.
Further to the west and away from the lake is the Sugar Creek area. More remote, but in easy reach of Downtown, Sugar Creek is home to orchards, breweries and wineries, making it perfect for a foodie’s retreat in nature. There are a lot of accommodation options here, but the remote location make Sugar Creek perfect for those traveling on a budget.
So without further ado, let’s check out these cool Blue Ridge neighborhoods in more detail!
1. Blue Ridge Downtown – Where to Stay in Blue Ridge for your First Time
Blue Ridge Downtown makes up a tiny portion of this sprawling area. First settled as a railroad stop, the town features a small core that boasts brick buildings dating back to 1887. Remnants of the historic railroad remain.
It’s also here where you’ll find the main hub of entertainment options, accommodation and places to eat and drink. There are numerous breweries with their own locally produced craft beer, local restaurants, and even a smattering of art galleries – all of this showcasing the surprising creative side to this naturally blessed area of Georgia.
Historic Downtown Bungalow | Best Cottage in Blue Ridge Downtown
This historic bungalow offers opulent interiors, which are awash with antique finds and vintage furnishings. Guests can enjoy evenings by the fire, cooking meals in the large, traditional kitchen and comfortable nights sleeping in cosy beds. Situated just two streets away from the historic Downtown, the bungalow even has a rear deck with a nice view out over the town.
Modern Downtown Home | Best Vacation House in Blue Ridge Downtown
With its perfect location just minutes from Downtown Blue Ridge, this is a relaxing vacation home. It’s a modern two-storey house filled with charm, and enough space for six people. Outside, guests can make full use of the deck, which comes with a dining table and gorgeous views out over the treetops.
Comfort Inn & Suites Blue Ridge | Best Hotel in Blue Ridge Downtown
For an easygoing place to stay in Blue Ridge, this hotel is definitely a good option. Inside, guests can expect traditionally decorated rooms that feel clean and fresh; these are spacious and come with large beds, crisp white linens and seating areas. Amenities at the hotel include lounges with fireplaces, a fitness centre and a complimentary breakfast served up each morning. It’s a quick stroll away from the historic Blue Ridge Scenic Railway from here.
Things to See and Do in Blue Ridge Downtown
- Have a super fun day out at the Blue Ridge Adventure Park, enjoying rope bridges, zip-lining and climbing walls.
- Take a ride on the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway
- Don’t miss out on trying the brews served up at Grumpy Old Men Brewing (there’s often live music here).
- Go for a stroll around the local neighborhood on a self-guided tour to check out the historic buildings in town.
- Hit up the friendly Blue Ridge Cellars, featuring several craft beers on tap and a few local wines on offer.
- Pop into the Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association to check out the creations of local artists.
- Play a game or two at Cohutta Cove Mini Golf, a super fun family-friendly course.
- Stroll along the Mineral Springs Walking Trail, a flat route through acres of woodland.
- Drop by Fannin Brewing Company for a selection of local beers (complete with a beer garden).
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View on Osprey View on REI2. Blue Ridge Lake Area – Where to Stay in Blue Ridge for Families
To the east of Downtown, you’ll find the large Blue Ridge Lake Area. This 3,300-acre lake is actually a reservoir that was created due to the completion of the Blue Ridge Dam. With 60 miles of shoreline, it has become a magnet for holidaymakers, who enjoy spending time in cabins beside the crystal clear waters.
Blue Ridge Lake provides a stunning backdrop for a vacation. Away from the amenities of Downtown, things are a lot more relaxed here. Large accommodation and lakeside locations make it an ideal family vacation destination.
Cosy Valley View Cabin | Best Cabin in Blue Ridge Lake Area
This cabin in Georgia is a bright and modern base for your Blue Ridge vacation. Inside, classic cabin aesthetics of pine-panelled walls and ceilings mix with contemporary furnishings, a modern kitchen and open-plan living spaces. Spend your time here curled up on the sofa in front of the fire or sitting out on the porch admiring the views. In terms of location, you’ll find this property surrounded by nature and close to hiking trails.
Birdhouse on Lake Blue Ridge | Best Holiday Home in Blue Ridge Lake Area
You’ll find this holiday home just a few miles outside of Downtown Blue Ridge. It’s situated quite literally on the lake itself and is surrounded by serene woodlands and nature. The interiors of this cabin make it a warm and cosy place to stay, with high ceilings, plaid furniture and a stone fireplace. Your family can enjoy cooking in the large kitchen, meals at the dining table, and relaxing in the hot tub on the deck.
Charming Blue Ridge Lake Cabin | Best Lake House in Blue Ridge Lake Area
Inside this spacious woodland cabin, there’s enough room for eight people to sleep across three bedrooms. Interiors here are modern, with large windows, wooden floors and a big stone fireplace. There’s plenty of space for all the family, and a huge treehouse-style deck. It’s just a quick walk down to the hill to the waterside, complete with a boat slip and jet ski ramps.
Things to See and Do in Blue Ridge Lake Area
- Spend some time hiking through the woodlands at Lake Blue Ridge Recreation Center.
- Hire a boat and explore the lake gliding along the water itself…
- … Or go on a tour of the lake with Capt’n Joe’s Lake Adventures.
- Shop for souvenirs and other interesting curios at Canoe, a boutique with a selection of unique wares.
- Have an adventure splashing around in the shallows at Morganton Point Recreation Area.
- Mine for gems at Huck’s Lost Mine – this is super fun for children!
- Go for a family day of fishing out on the lake
- Swing by Carroll’s Barbeque, a great BBQ joint that’s a must-visit for any BBQ fan.
- Put on your hiking shoes and head along the Flat Creek Loop along Aska Road.
- Watch a film up at Swan Drive In, a vintage movie theatre that’s been screening blockbusters since 1955.
- Head up to Lake Blue Ridge Marina for some tasty food and local beer.
3. Sugar Creek – Where to Stay in Blue Ridge on a Budget
Sugar Creek is a mountainous and slightly more remote area. However, it’s not simply the middle of nowhere. In fact, there are many small mountain communities dotted around here, with numerous cabins and vacation rentals nestled among the hills.
It’s also here that you’ll find a selection of wineries, breweries and eateries. Away from the town and lake, accommodation is more affordable, and there are a lot of options to choose from. So if having good food and drink on your doorstep, as well as tons of accommodation – much of which is private and secluded – Sugar Creek could be the district for you.
Staurolite Mountain Retreat | Best Vacation Home in Sugar Creek
A rustic cabin with a boho heart, this is an ideal retreat for a couple or small family looking for somewhere budget-friendly to stay in Blue Ridge. With its mountain cabin style exteriors, this place is polished and modern inside with rustic touches. A big perk is the hot tub and grill out on the deck. It’s also just a few minutes’ drive from Downtown.
Daffodil Hill Farm Carriage House | Best Cottage in Sugar Creek
If you’re looking for somewhere stylish to stay on your Blue Ridge vacation, look no further than this chic carriage house. Situated up in the mountains, it boasts beautiful views and is surrounded by farmlands. Inside this historic property, you’ll find whitewashed walls, light wood floorings and plenty of vintage finds dotted around. There’s room here to sleep two guests, making it ideal for a couple’s retreat.
Secluded Cabin with Games Room | Best Cabin in Sugar Creek
Looking for privacy? This sizable cabin is a perfect option for you. Located close to several hiking trails and excellent for nature-lovers, this renovated home comes complete with all you’ll need for a comfortable stay in Blue Ridge. Outside, you’ll find a hot tub and a large deck, while inside there’s a wood-burning fire and games room for cosy evenings in. The interiors are classic cabin style, with open spaces for socialising, and room to sleep seven.
Things to See and Do in Sugar Creek
- Pick your own seasonal fruits and pick up freshly baked goods at Mercier Orchards, a 300-acre orchard dating back to 1943.
- Head out hiking and breathe in that fresh mountain air on one the area’s numerous trails.
- Watch adrenaline-fueled local racing and have a ball at Blue Ridge Motorsports Park.
- For great food and an even better selection of local beer, swing by Misty Mountain Hops.
- Enjoy coffee and cake and the cosy and cool Das Kaffehaus.
- Try out horseback riding in the mountains at Cowgirl Up Stables.
- See the forests from a different perspective courtesy of Zipline Canopy Tours of Blue Ridge.
- Have at it with your friends at the exciting Blue Ridge Paintball.
- Go wine tasting at Bear Claw Vineyards & Winery, and take home a bottle of your favourite.
- Grab some of the pizza in town at Mystic Mountain Pizza, complete with retro arcade games and live music.
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Hide Yo’ Money!FAQs About Where to Stay in Blue Ridge
Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of Blue Ridge and where to stay.
What To Pack For Blue Ridge
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
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Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
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Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
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Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Blue Ridge
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Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Blue Ridge
Blue Ridge draws in a varied crowd – from wedding parties and couples looking to get away, to families looking for a fun vacation. There’s much more to this compact mountain town than meets the eye, and it’s a great lakeside destination for travelers in the USA.
With plenty of places to base yourself in Blue Ridge, you may still be wondering where’s best for you. We’d recommend Downtown if it’s your first time. For one thing, you get to stay in places like this historic downtown bungalow (which is awesome), but you’ll also have the mountains and lakes at your fingertips while being on the doorstep to some great eateries and entertainment options. Sorted.
Let us know how your trip goes in the comments below!
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around USA.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in USA.
- Or… maybe you want to check out some Airbnbs in USA instead.
- Next up you’re gonna need to know all the best places to visit in USA to plan your trip.
- Save yourself hassle and money and get an international sim card for USA.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links. That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!
