Whether you’re a history buff, nature enthusiast, or antique collector, there are tons of things to do in Clarkesville, GA, during any season. This charming town boasts its natural beauty all year long, with blooming flowers in the spring, brilliant colors in the fall, and snow-capped peaks in the winter. Locals and visitors alike can get outside to enjoy the fresh mountain air, or spend time in the area’s many galleries, shops, and museums. Here are our picks for the top Clarkesville activities that guarantee a day of adventure.
There’s so much to do and see, and it’s all just minutes from Glen-Ella Springs Inn!
Our Favorite Things to Do in Clarkesville, GA
Stroll Downtown
Downtown Clarkesville is home to a wide variety of boutiques and shops, award-winning eateries, and century-old historic buildings that provide a beautiful backdrop. Once the sun goes down, guests can enjoy live music, great drinks, and a fun atmosphere at a variety of downtown hot spots.
Road Trip to Helen
Visitors can take a short 40-minute drive from Clarkesville, GA, to Helen, GA, for a first-hand look at a Bavarian-style Alpine Village. This unique mountain town boasts over 200 specialty shops, a scenic State Park, cobblestone streets, and a rustic atmosphere that will make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.
Check Out Hickory Flat Pottery
Located on Georgia’s Historic Scenic Highway 197, Hickory Flat Pottery is housed in a historic 112-year-old Wikle homestead. In the gallery connected to the pottery studio, you’ll find the work of over 20 artists, from pottery and jewelry to glass, copper, and metal art.
Discover Sunburst Stables
For an exciting day out in the Georgia sun, head to Sunburst Stables Adventure Park where you can zip line above the tree tops, ride ATV’s, take a boat out on the water, or horseback ride through the forest. Kids, couples, and groups of friends can enjoy a variety of outdoor recreation in the beautiful North Georgia Mountains.
Cast a Line
Just four miles north of Clarkesville, Fern Valley on the Soque offers some of the best Soque River fly fishing for all levels of anglers, from novice to expert. Both Rainbow and Brown trout are prevalent throughout this stretch of the river, so you have a great chance of catching a big one!
Explore Mark of the Potter
The oldest craft store in the area, Mark of the Potter is a quaint pottery shop that features four in-house potters who create impeccable stoneware, including bowls, plates, and jars, in various textures and shapes. The shop also offers a lovely waterfall view and a porch where guests can relax and feed the trout.
Visit Moccasin Creek Park
Featuring miles of hiking and mountain biking trails, various waterfalls, and a playground, Moccasin Creek Park is perfect for an afternoon outdoors. Inside the park, 2,800-acre Lake Burton is a prime spot for skiing, boating, and fishing, and canoes can be rented during warmer months.
Have a Bite to Eat
There are many Clarkesville, GA, restaurants that you are bound to love! Bite into the best slice of pizza you’ve ever tasted at The Copper Pot or indulge in a delectable dish at The Attic Restaurant.
Stop by the Cottage Garden
At Cottage Garden Plants & Gifts, you can peruse tons of Clarkesville treasures including antiques, hand-painted furniture, local art, plants and flowers, and more. Don’t forget to follow the wooden walkway to the shop’s small outdoor shed where you’ll find unique garden supplies for your home.
Stay at Glen-Ella Springs Inn
After a day spent exploring, head home to our Clarkesville, GA, bed and breakfast and unwind! Our 16 stunning guest rooms and suites provide the perfect homestead and feature private baths, luxury linens, period antiques, and locally-made furniture for a comfortable, rustic atmosphere. Plus, guests can enjoy one of the best Clarkesville, GA restaurants right on our grounds. We can’t wait to hear about your day in Clarkesville!
