Northeast Georgia Family Fun To Do list for September and Fall Festivals

Northeast Georgia Blue Ridge Mountains

Fall Shoulder Season - Late September

This is the sweet spot after the busy summer tourist rush but before (and during the start of) peak leaf season. Early fall offers cooler temps, fewer crowds on trails, and lower lodging prices—right up until mid-October, when leaf color peaks and crowds return.

First - September to do List:

1. Take in Early Fall Foliage from Brasstown Bald

As the highest point in Georgia, Brasstown Bald offers a breathtaking 360° panoramic view of the Blue Ridge Mountains—especially captivating in the fall when the leaves illuminate the slopes in fiery reds, golds, and oranges. You can either hike or take a shuttle from the parking lot to the observation deck. The sightlines stretch across Georgia and even into parts of neighboring states, making it an unforgettable autumn experience. [Brasstown Bald Info]

2. Stroll Through Unicoi State Park & Visit Anna Ruby Falls

Located just outside Helen, Unicoi State Park is particularly beautiful as the foliage begins its seasonal transformation. Enjoy hiking, paddleboarding, or relaxing by Lake Unicoi before heading to Anna Ruby Falls—a forest-framed double waterfall that's especially stunning amid fall colors. [More Info]

3. Sip Wine with Scenic Views at North Georgia Vineyards

September is a perfect time to explore North Georgia's burgeoning wine scene amid changing leaves. Top vineyards like Wolf Mountain, Three Sisters, Tiger Mountain, and Bear Claw (near Blue Ridge) combine world-class wines with beautiful landscapes and seasonal events. Whether you're touring, tasting, or listening to live music, fall adds a magical dimension to the experience. [Northeast Georgia Wine Tour]

Special: here are out top picks for fall festivals. We checked hotels/VRBO and all these locations have availability. Festivals in Northeast Georgia are very popular, so prices are up a bit.

Top Picks

1.Blue Ridge Fall Arts in the Park Festival — Blue Ridge

Held mid‑October in the beautiful city park. A true fall classic with local artists and crafts booths, live music, food vendors, and set against vibrant autumn foliage—ideal for a scenic yet relaxed day in town.

Website: https://brmaa.org/event-item/arts-in-the-parks/

Lodging Suggestion: Hampton Inn – Blue Ridge (walk to everything)

 2. Gold Rush Days — Dahlonega

Celebrated mid‑October, Dahlonega’s signature festival marks the 1828 discovery of gold. Expect thousands of visitors, gold‑panning contests (including a World Open Gold Panning Championship), heritage performances, artisan booths, and quirky events like beard-growing and hog‑calling contests

Website: https://goldrushdaysfestival.com/

Lodging: This TripAdvisor link [Dahlonega]  will show several hotels. Recommended: The Dahlonega Square Hotel, the Smith House, or Dahlonega Inn on Main Street. Walk to everything.

Finally:

3: Georgia Mountain Fall Festival — Hiawassee

Held each October (typically early mid month), this nine-day festival includes arts & crafts vendors, pioneer demonstrations (like blacksmithing and cider pressing), live music, food, and the annual Georgia State Fiddlers’ Convention with competitions and performances.

Website: https://georgiamountainfairgrounds.com/localevents/fallfest

Lodging: Lake Chatuge Lodge is very close/walking distance to the festival [Lake Chatuge Lodge]