Atlanta's Autumn Adventures: Embracing the Season's Splendor

Fall in Atlanta is a special time. The air is crisp, and the leaves turn into a stunning display of colors. It's a period of calm before the holiday rush. Our family has grown to appreciate this season even more with our travels, realizing there's nothing quite like autumn in Atlanta.

The outdoors call to us during these months. We're often on Lake Allatoona with our pontoon, soaking up sunset views, enjoying live music in Dahlonega, or hiking with our dog in Rope Mill Park. October and November invite us to spend more time outside, reveling in the natural beauty.

Luckily, we're never short on options. Just an hour from Atlanta, you can dive into the heart of the North Georgia Mountains with a plethora of activities. Hiking, apple picking, or enjoying the fall colors, North Georgia is the place to see nature's show.

Here's a rundown of can't-miss fall activities around Atlanta:

Stone Mountain Pumpkin Festival

Stone Mountain Park transforms into an autumn paradise. It's a family favorite with arts, crafts, dance parties, and contests. Experience the Pumpkinpalooza game show, complete with comical challenges and the notorious "Wheel of Misery" for the less fortunate participants.

With a festival ticket, you also get access to attractions like the SkyHike adventure ropes course, a 4-D movie experience, and a summit ride that offers a panoramic view of the changing leaves.

Apple Picking in Ellijay

Ellijay shines as Georgia's apple hub, especially during the Apple Festival in October. There are several orchards like B.J. Reece and Hillcrest, but Mercier Orchards stands out. Here, for $10, you get a bag to fill with all sorts of apples. There's something extra rewarding about eating an apple you've picked yourself.

Hiking the North Georgia Mountains

Outdoor enthusiasts will love the state parks north of Atlanta. Trails in these parks offer breathtaking views, especially in fall when the leaves are at their peak. From the towering waterfall at Amicalola Falls to the panoramic views from Brasstown Bald, there's no shortage of natural beauty to explore.

Uncle Shuck’s Corn Maze

This massive corn maze in Dawsonville is a family tradition. With four miles of trails, it's the largest in Georgia. It features fun activities like a barnyard crime game, night-time hauntings in October, and other family-friendly activities like hayrides and marshmallow roasts.

Blue Ridge Scenic Railway

This train ride is steeped in history and showcases the natural beauty of the area. The ride from Blue Ridge takes you along the Toccoa River to the towns of McCaysville, Georgia, and Copperhill, Tennessee. It's a particularly stunning journey in the fall, as the foliage is at its most vibrant. Reservations are a must during this season.

Fall in Atlanta and its surroundings is truly a time to embrace the great outdoors and enjoy the seasonal festivities that come with it. Whether you're a local or a visitor, these activities promise to make the season memorable.