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!
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Best Vacation Home in Blue Ridge: Staurolite Mountain Retreat
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.
Best Hotel in Blue Ridge: Comfort Inn & Suites 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.
Best Cabin in Blue Ridge: Charming Blue Ridge Lake Cabin
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.
Charming Blue Ridge Lake Cabin is one of our favourites in Blue Ridge but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
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 neighbourhoods in more detail!
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.
Best Hotel in Blue Ridge Downtown: Comfort Inn & Suites Blue Ridge
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.
Best Cottage in Blue Ridge Downtown: Historic Downtown Bungalow
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.
Historic Downtown Bungalow is one of our favourites in Blue Ridge but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Best Vacation House in Blue Ridge Downtown: Modern Downtown Home
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.
Modern Downtown Home is one of our favourites in Blue Ridge but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
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 neighbourhood 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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Learn More Now!#2 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.
Best Cabin in Blue Ridge Lake Area: Cosy Valley View Cabin
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.
Best Holiday Home in Blue Ridge Lake Area: Birdhouse on Lake Blue Ridge
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.
Birdhouse on Lake Blue Ridge is one of our favourites in Blue Ridge but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Best Lake House in Blue Ridge Lake Area: Charming Blue Ridge Lake Cabin
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.
Charming Blue Ridge Lake Cabin is one of our favourites in Blue Ridge but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
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.
Best Vacation Home in Sugar Creek: Staurolite Mountain Retreat
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.
Best Cottage in Sugar Creek: Daffodil Hill Farm Carriage House
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.
Best Cabin in Sugar Creek: Secluded Cabin with Games Room
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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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!
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