Helen
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Betty's Country Store
Betty's Country Store, established in 1973 by George and Betty Fain, started in an 800 sq ft building across from its current location. Now a 10,000 sq ft IGA Supermarket, it retains its original "country" charm. The store serves both locals and tourists with a butcher offering high-quality meats, a bakery with fresh desserts, and a deli for sandwiches and salads. Attractions include a candy room, a live bee hive, beer/wine, and a gift room. The latest addition is an outdoor bar that pairs beer and wine with deli sandwiches.
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Das Ice Cream Cafe
Das Ice Cream Café, the first ice cream parlor in Helen, Georgia to offer adult alcohol-infused flavors, also provides dairy-free and sugar-free options. Owner D. Whittington aims to blend local traditions with a touch of fun, serving homemade, freshly churned ice cream. The café features classic flavors like Vanilla, Chocolate, and Salted Caramel, alongside unique alcohol-infused options such as Bananas Foster and Honey Bourbon Vanilla. Guests can enjoy sundaes, milkshakes, and floats, including the German Eiskaffee and the popular Spaghettieis.
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Hofer's
Hofer's Bakery was established in 1973 by Horst and Gerda Hofer, who emigrated from Schwabach, Germany, in the late 1950s. After running bakeries in Atlanta, the Hofers opened their own bakery, which gained national acclaim. In 1991, they expanded by opening a second location in Helen, Georgia, a picturesque Bavarian-themed town. Located in a remodeled former bank building, Hofer's of Helen offers traditional German baked goods using high-quality ingredients and modern European equipment. The business is now operated by the Hofers' son, Ralph, continuing the family's legacy of excellence.
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Anna Ruby Falls
Anna Ruby Falls features two stunning waterfalls cascading side by side through a scenic North Georgia forest. They flow from a high cliff, creating delicate white strands that pool over mossy boulders. Located near Alpine Helen and Unicoi State Park, it's a popular outdoor destination year-round.
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Raven Cliff Falls
This 2.5-mile trail near Helen, GA, leads to a stunning 40-foot waterfall that splits a massive rock cliff. The hike follows a rushing trout stream through a shaded, moss-covered forest. Starting from a gravel trailhead, the path ascends briefly before leveling off and then descending towards the creek. A side trail provides access to a campsite and swimming hole. The main trail crosses the creek on a wooden bridge, continues up the right bank, and passes through the mossy forest while crossing several small tributaries.
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Alpine Mini Golf
Located on Main Street in the south end of Helen, the Helen Alpine Mini Golf Course features 18 holes and stunning flower gardens. It’s a welcoming spot for families, kids, and pets. Ideal for groups, parties, and gatherings, the mini golf course is open daily from March to November, 10 AM to 10 PM (weather permitting), and on weekends during December, January, and February, also weather permitting. It’s a great destination to enjoy the charming Alpine Helen area with plenty of accommodations, shopping, and dining options.
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Georgia Mountain Coaster
The Georgia Mountain Coaster, the state's only mountain coaster, lets you control your speed for a personalized experience. You can choose between a thrilling fast ride or a leisurely glide through the forest. Located within walking distance of downtown Helen, it's open daily year-round, weather permitting.
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Cool River Tubing
Enjoy an exciting tubing adventure or a fun day on our waterslide at Cool River Headquarters in Helen, GA. Your tubing trip includes a tube, life preserver, shuttle service, and a scenic float down the Chattahoochee River. Park at our headquarters, get transported up river, and float back to your car. We offer accessible restrooms, changing rooms, showers, and a gift shop with all necessary supplies.
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Café International
Café International, celebrating 30 years in 2015, is renowned for its signature sandwich, "The Best Reuben Ever," as well as a variety of other sandwiches, salads, and German dishes. The menu caters to families, including children and vegetarians, with daily specials and tempting desserts. Located overlooking the Chattahoochee River, the café also offers a large selection of beer and wine.