Top 10 Reasons Guests Visit Ellijay, GA, More Than Once
Located in North Georgia’s Mountain Range is the picturesque town of Ellijay, beloved by returning visitors for its stunning beauty and warm small-town charm.
Step into Mountain Valley Farm for a hands-on experience with animals—from feeding baby goats to sampling homemade ice creams. History lovers can journey back in time at the Tabor House Museum, while nature enthusiasts can explore the Tumbling Waters Trail or enjoy breathtaking mountain views from Cohutta Overlook.
You can also unwind with a glass of local wine at Ott Farms and Vineyard, Engelheim Vineyards, or Cartecay Vineyards, where you’ll enjoy handcrafted wines paired with the scenic backdrop of the surrounding mountains.
Whether your trip includes farm-themed fun, cultural experiences, or peaceful landscapes, there are countless reasons visitors return to Ellijay time and time again.
Mountain Valley Farm
Mountain Valley Farm has been located in Clear Creek Valley since 1840. Visit this working dairy farm to see more than 300 cows and meet a variety of friendly farm animals, including calves, pigs, goats, bunnies, chickens, and more. You may even see Old Red the horse or Elsie the milk cow.
The farm store sells a wide range of products, including grass-fed, dry-aged beef, free-range heritage pork, farm-fresh eggs, handmade cheese, creamery butter, and goods from local vendors. Don’t miss their homemade ice cream, made with fresh farm ingredients.
Red Apple Barn
Red Apple Barn is a family-owned and operated orchard with roots dating back to 1927. Enjoy a tractor-pulled wagon ride to harvest your own apples in the fall or join the “U-Pick” adventure for pumpkins, flowers, and seasonal treats.
Their cozy farm store offers delicious apple pies, fritters, breads, honey, jams, and freshly pressed cider. Families can relax by the creek, cross the charming bridge, or let kids play in the playground and tire swing area.
Tabor House Museum
Located in Ellijay’s historic downtown, the Tabor House Museum offers a journey back to the Victorian era. Inside, you’ll find artifacts from early settlers, the Cherokee Nation, and an extensive Civil War collection, including military memorabilia and over 200 books on Civil War history.
The museum also features genealogy resources and hosts special events throughout the year.
Reece Apple House
Reece Apple House is nestled in the foothills of North Georgia. Wander through 120 acres of apple trees, pick your own apples—including Golden Delicious and Rome Beauty—and enjoy crisp fall weather.
The orchard features wagon rides, a petting zoo, pony rides, and an apple cannon for some family fun. Stop by the bakery for fried apple pies and warm apple cider donuts.
Cohutta Overlook
Cohutta Overlook, created in the 1960s by the U.S. Forest Service, is a peaceful escape offering sweeping views of the Georgia and Cohutta Mountains.
You can also access a nearby section of the Pinhoti Trail—an adventurous 3.8-mile hike through hardwood forests leading you to the overlook.
There are no restrooms or facilities here, but the scenic views and tranquil wilderness more than make up for it.
Tumbling Waters Trail
Located near Carters Lake, the Tumbling Waters Trail is perfect for a short walk or a 25-minute hike. You'll cross a 150-foot wooden bridge, about 30 feet above rushing Tails Creek, and enjoy views of small cascades from the overlook.
Relax beside the creek, listen to the flowing water, or let your dog play in the shallow spots along the water’s edge.
Ott Farms and Vineyard
Ott Farms and Vineyard sits in Ellijay’s peaceful hills and is a relaxing place to sip wine with beautiful mountain views.
Create your own tasting from a selection of red, white, and rosé wines made from grapes such as Seyval Blanc, Traminette, Chambourcin, Vidal Blanc, Lenoire, and Cabernet Franc.
On weekends, enjoy live music, food trucks, and a picnic-friendly atmosphere.
Engelheim Vineyards
Engelheim Vineyards is set among the rolling hills outside Ellijay and features a Bavarian-inspired tasting room on its 18-acre property. It is open daily from 12:30 PM to 6 PM.
Choose from four curated wine selections ranging from crisp whites to rich red blends. Pair your tasting with a charcuterie board and enjoy the sunshine on the deck or relax at the picnic tables below.
Weekends feature live music both outdoors and inside the tasting room.
Panorama Orchards & Farm Market
Located in the scenic hills of Ellijay, Panorama Orchards & Farm Market offers over twenty varieties of apples, peaches, fresh cider, and seasonal produce.
Step inside to the warm aroma of fried pies, apple-cinnamon breads, apple brandy cakes, and cider donuts. You can also pick up homemade ice cream, fudge, or a cold glass of cider.
The best time to visit is late August through early December, when tree-ripened apples and seasonal fruits are at their peak.
Cartecay Vineyards
Cartecay Vineyards, located just outside Ellijay, is perfect for wine lovers who appreciate fine wines and a rustic farmhouse setting.
The beautifully restored barn features a wood-burning fireplace, a black walnut bar, and a charming loft.
Enjoy tastings of their red and white varieties, including the crisp Vidal Blanc and the popular Chimney Red.
Relax on the Chimney Patio or settle into the grassy picnic area while listening to live music performed by local artists on weekends.
Ready to explore Ellijay, GA, and experience its farms, trails, and vineyards firsthand? Book your stay now at Ellijay Inn Georgia!


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Amelia has a great eye for photography. She has traveled to over 30 countries and has produced great videography and photos, along with penning them down with her writing skills. She has also worked with many top travel photographers.