Best home base with 3yo in August

Question

Hi,

My husband, 3yo, and I will be visiting the first week of August. We’ve rented a cabin in Blue Ridge for the past 2 years (which we loved), but were wondering what other towns could be a good option to stay at.

Looking have a relaxing vacation with beautiful sceneries. An orchard is a must for apple picking :). Also, we like visiting other towns for the day/doing a super easy hike.

Thanks so much!

Answer

It sounds like you’re looking for a relaxing vacation with scenic beauty, outdoor activities, and easy hikes—perfect for a family with a young child. Blue Ridge is a fantastic choice, but if you’re looking to explore other towns in the area for a change of pace, here are some great options that offer similar experiences and are also family-friendly.

1. Ellijay, GA:

Ellijay is known as the "Apple Capital of Georgia" and is a great alternative if you're looking for orchards and a more rural atmosphere. There are plenty of apple farms where you can pick apples during August, and it offers charming country roads, small-town vibes, and beautiful mountain views. It’s also just a short drive from Blue Ridge, so you can easily do day trips to both towns.

Things to do: Visit local orchards such as Hillcrest Orchards or R & A Orchards, explore Amicalola Falls State Park for a quick hike, or check out the scenic drive along the Cartecay River.
Why it’s great for kids: There are plenty of outdoor activities, farm visits, and easy trails that are perfect for young children.

2. Dahlonega, GA:

Dahlonega is a historic town located in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. It’s a lovely place for a family getaway with a mix of history, natural beauty, and small-town charm. The town has a nice blend of outdoor activities, shopping, and dining, and is located in the heart of Georgia’s wine country (though that’s not necessarily a draw for families). It also offers some family-friendly hiking options.

Things to do: Visit the Dahlonega Gold Museum, hike the easy trails at Vogel State Park, or take a scenic drive along the Appalachian Scenic Highway.
Why it’s great for kids: You can enjoy family-friendly hikes, explore gold mines, and even visit nearby parks and lakes. The town is very walkable and offers plenty of places to grab a bite to eat or shop for souvenirs.

3. Hiawassee, GA:

Located near Lake Chatuge in the north Georgia mountains, Hiawassee is a great place for families seeking a more relaxed, scenic vacation. It’s known for its beautiful lake views and access to the Appalachian Trail. Hiawassee offers more outdoor recreational activities, perfect for a peaceful stay in nature.

Things to do: Take a scenic drive around Lake Chatuge, visit the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds, or take an easy hike at the Brasstown Bald Observation Tower for panoramic mountain views.
Why it’s great for kids: The area offers easy lakeside walks, gentle hikes, and a laid-back atmosphere. It’s also close to the North Carolina state line, so you can enjoy nearby towns like Murphy, NC.

4. Blairsville, GA:

Blairsville is another wonderful small town in the north Georgia mountains that offers access to beautiful hiking trails, scenic vistas, and orchards. The area is less crowded than Blue Ridge but has plenty to offer, including quaint local shops and farm-to-table restaurants.

Things to do: Take a quick hike to the beautiful Blood Mountain, visit the Nottely Lake, or pick apples at one of the area’s many orchards.
Why it’s great for kids: Blairsville offers a low-key, family-friendly atmosphere. It’s a good place to get away from the hustle and bustle, with plenty of opportunities for outdoor play and exploration.

5. Murphy, NC (just across the border):

If you’re up for a short drive outside Georgia, Murphy, North Carolina is just an hour or so from Blue Ridge and offers a beautiful, laid-back atmosphere. It’s surrounded by the Nantahala National Forest, and there are plenty of easy hikes and outdoor activities to enjoy. It’s also a charming small town with friendly locals and some fun local attractions.

Things to do: Visit the Murphy River Walk, check out the nearby Nantahala Outdoor Center, or explore the nearby hiking trails in the National Forest.
Why it’s great for kids: The town is small and safe, and the surrounding forests offer easy, kid-friendly hiking trails. It’s a great base if you enjoy being close to nature.

Why Choose These Areas?

They offer access to nature and beautiful mountain landscapes, perfect for families with young children.
Many of these towns have easy, family-friendly hiking trails and activities such as apple picking and scenic drives.
The towns listed are all relaxed and small, providing a calm atmosphere with enough to do without feeling overwhelming.
They are all within an hour or so of Blue Ridge, so you can easily make day trips to Blue Ridge for a change of scenery if you choose to stay elsewhere.

Whether you stay in Blue Ridge or explore one of these other towns, you’re sure to have a memorable and relaxing vacation with your family. Enjoy the scenic beauty, the orchards, and the easy hikes—perfect for a 3-year-old! Happy travels!

Best home base with 3yo in August

More Blue Ridge Travel Questions

The attractions mentioned in this question

Popular Destinations

Popular Travel Questions