Fall has finally arrived, and with it comes the joys of sweater weather, football season, pumpkin spice treats, and the breathtaking beauty of fall foliage. It's the season that many eagerly anticipate, not only for its vibrant colors and crisp air but also for the countless seasonal activities that come with it. Whether you're looking to explore apple orchards, navigate corn mazes, or simply enjoy a pumpkin patch with your family, there’s something for everyone just north of Atlanta.
To help you make the most of this season, I've put together a comprehensive guide to all things fall in the North Georgia area. From apple picking in Ellijay to walking through sunflower fields in Dawsonville, these destinations offer a perfect escape into the heart of fall. And, if you have a beloved fall tradition or a favorite spot that you think should be on this list, don't hesitate to leave a comment below—I'd love to hear from you!
Apple Orchards: Where Crisp Fall Adventures Begin
Nothing says fall like the crunch of a freshly picked apple. North Georgia is home to some of the best apple orchards in the state, offering a perfect blend of fun and tradition for families and apple enthusiasts alike.
Red Apple Barn is a quintessential fall destination for those looking to experience the charm of apple picking. Located in the picturesque town of Ellijay, this orchard offers visitors the chance to pick their own apples, explore a pumpkin patch, and take a scenic tractor ride through the orchards. After you've filled your basket with apples, be sure to stop by the Apple House Farm Market, which is open throughout the week, to pick up homemade goodies like apple cider, jams, and pies.
For a more immersive fall experience, Hillcrest Orchards is the place to be. This family-friendly destination is more than just an apple orchard; it's a fall wonderland complete with an apple tree maze, a farm market brimming with fresh produce, and a bakery that will satisfy your sweet tooth with treats like apple cider doughnuts. Kids will love the petting farm, where they can meet and feed various farm animals. With so much to do, Hillcrest Orchards is an ideal spot for a full day of fall fun.
If you’re looking for a cozy and intimate orchard experience, Deep Roots Orchard in McCaysville should be on your list. With over 50 years of history, this charming orchard offers visitors tractor rides that provide a scenic tour of the property, where you can take in the stunning fall views. Afterward, stop by their store to pick up local goodies, including honey, jams, and of course, freshly picked apples. Deep Roots Orchard is perfect for those seeking a quieter, more relaxed fall outing.
Fairs: Celebrate Fall with Festive Fun
Fall is also the season for fairs, where the excitement of rides, games, and live entertainment fills the crisp autumn air. If you’re near Cumming, GA, make sure to check out one of the area’s biggest seasonal events.
The Cumming Country Fair & Festival is a highlight of the fall season in North Georgia, running from October 5th to the 15th this year. This fair offers a little bit of everything, making it a great outing for families, couples, and groups of friends. Attractions include a variety of carnival rides, live concerts, a petting zoo, a haunted house, and an array of food vendors offering classic fair treats. The fair also hosts rotating events such as demolition derbies, beauty pageants, and fireworks, ensuring that there’s always something exciting happening. Don’t miss this opportunity to enjoy a true taste of fall with a side of festive fun.
Sunflower Fields: A Sea of Golden Blooms
For a different kind of fall beauty, visit one of North Georgia’s sunflower fields, where you can stroll among acres of towering blooms and capture the perfect fall photo.
Fausett Farms Sunflowers is a must-visit destination in Dawsonville, GA, especially for flower lovers and photography enthusiasts. This family-owned farm, in operation since 1858, boasts over 900,000 sunflowers spread across more than 30 acres. The sight of these golden blooms stretching as far as the eye can see is simply breathtaking and provides the perfect backdrop for fall photos. Located near other popular fall spots like Burt’s Pumpkin Farm and Amicalola Falls, Fausett Farms is an ideal stop on a fall day trip. Whether you're looking to take stunning photos or simply enjoy a peaceful walk among the flowers, Fausett Farms Sunflowers is a place where the beauty of fall comes to life.
Pumpkin Patches: The Heart of Fall Fun
Pumpkin patches are synonymous with fall, offering a festive and fun environment where families can pick out the perfect pumpkin, take hayrides, and enjoy seasonal treats.
Burt’s Pumpkin Farm is a fall tradition for many in North Georgia, and for good reason. This sprawling farm in Dawsonville offers over twenty varieties of pumpkins, from tiny decorative gourds to massive carving pumpkins. The daily hayrides, starting on September 15th, are a highlight for visitors of all ages, providing a scenic tour of the farm and its beautiful fall foliage. Whether you’re looking for the perfect pumpkin for your porch or just want to soak in the fall atmosphere, Burt’s Pumpkin Farm is a must-visit destination this season.
Located in the charming town of Milton, Scottsdale Farms is a local favorite that offers much more than just a pumpkin patch. This family-owned farm features hayrides, corn mazes, and sunflower fields, making it a one-stop-shop for all your fall fun. The farm animals, including friendly goats and chickens, are a hit with the kids, and the farm store offers a variety of seasonal decorations and local products. Scottsdale Farms is the perfect place to spend a crisp fall day with the family, enjoying the best that the season has to offer.
Berry Patch Farms in Woodstock is another excellent destination for fall activities. Known for its U-pick strawberries in the spring, this farm transforms into a pumpkin paradise in the fall. Visitors can pick their perfect pumpkin, enjoy a relaxing hayride, or visit the delightful petting zoo, which features a variety of animals. With its charming setting and family-friendly activities, Berry Patch Farms offers a quintessential fall experience that you won't want to miss.
While Kinsey Family Farm is well-known for its Christmas trees, it’s also a fantastic destination in the fall. Located in Gainesville, GA, this farm offers a Pumpkin Patch where visitors can pick out the perfect pumpkin and enjoy hayrides through the scenic countryside. The farm store is stocked with seasonal decorations, local honey, and other goodies, making it a great place to pick up fall-themed gifts. Kinsey Family Farm’s warm and welcoming atmosphere makes it a top spot for fall fun.
Warbington Farms in Cumming offers a wide range of fall activities that the whole family will enjoy. Admission includes unlimited access to their corn maze, barnyard, hayrides, swings, slides, and of course, pumpkins. The U-Cut flower fields are also a beautiful sight in the fall, providing a burst of color to your visit. With so much to do, Warbington Farms is an ideal destination for a day of fall adventure.
Corn Mazes: Get Lost in Fall Fun
Navigating a corn maze is a classic fall activity, offering both challenge and fun for all ages. North Georgia is home to several corn mazes that provide hours of entertainment.
Cagle’s Family Farm in Holly Springs is a go-to spot for fall fun, offering a corn maze, pumpkin picking, wagon rides, and more. The corn maze is perfect for those looking to challenge themselves, while the wagon rides and animal barnyard provide additional entertainment for younger visitors. After navigating the maze, gather around one of the bonfires for some toasty marshmallows and fall storytelling.
Uncle Shuck’s is a Dawsonville staple, featuring a 15-acre corn maze that is fun for the whole family. In addition to the main maze, there’s a smaller kids’ maze for younger visitors, as well as gem mining, a haunted trail, and wagon rides. The pumpkin patch at Uncle Shuck’s is also worth a visit, offering a variety of pumpkins for picking. Whether you’re navigating the maze or exploring the haunted trail, Uncle Shuck’s promises a day full of fall adventure.
Copper Creek Farm in Calhoun offers a wide range of fall activities, including a challenging corn maze, pumpkin patch, pony rides, and even a milking barn. The farm’s picturesque setting and variety of attractions make it a popular destination for families looking to enjoy the fall season. Be sure to check out their events calendar, as they often host special themed weekends with additional activities.
Buford Corn Maze is consistently rated as one of the top corn mazes in the country, and for good reason. In addition to the main maze, the farm offers a haunted forest, pedal kart track, animal kids' corner, and more. The farm's layout and variety of activities make it a great destination for a full day of fall fun. Whether you’re looking to test your navigation skills in the maze or simply enjoy the festive atmosphere, Buford Corn Maze is a must-visit this season.
Roadside Attractions: Unique Stops for Fall Fun
Sometimes, the best fall adventures are found off the beaten path. North Georgia is home to several quirky and unique roadside attractions that are perfect for a quick stop during your fall outings.
One of the most unique stops in North Georgia is Goats on the Roof in Tiger, GA. As the name suggests, this roadside attraction features goats that live on the roof of the building, creating a fun and memorable experience for visitors. In addition to the goats, the attraction offers gem mining, a playground, homemade fudge, and award-winning nitrogen ice cream. It’s a great place to take a break, grab a treat, and enjoy some lighthearted fun during your fall adventures.
Embrace the Fall Season in North Georgia
As the leaves start to change and the air becomes crisp, there’s no shortage of activities to enjoy in North Georgia this fall season. From apple picking and pumpkin patches to corn mazes and unique roadside attractions, this region offers something for everyone. So, gather your family and friends, head out on a fall adventure, and make some unforgettable memories this season.
What are your favorite fall activities north of Atlanta? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and let us know if we missed any must-visit spots or if you try any of the activities we’ve recommended. Here’s to a season filled with fun, warmth, and all the best that fall has to offer!
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