Centered around the historic Blue Ridge Depot, downtown’s restored buildings blend perfectly with modern industrial and mountain architecture, showcasing the arts, antiques, unique shops and restaurants. Bordering the Chattahoochee National Forest, Blue Ridge is also known for stunning views, hiking trails, waterfalls, wineries and craft breweries.

An intown stay with its proximity to a dazzling array of dining, art and antique galleries and unique artisan shops gives visitors a true Blue Ridge experience. Here, the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway, the historic railroad depot for a storybook setting. Check in to the new lodge-like Hampton Inn Blue Ridge featuring a hot breakfast, balcony rooms and the city’s only rooftop bar/restaurant, Hook & Eye. Plenty of downtown lodging options including loft apartments and B&Bs can be found in Blue Ridge.

Here are suggestions to include in a build-your-own BFF itinerary.

Spa Sessions and Wellness

Blue Ridge attracts some of the best wellness and bodywork practitioners in the Southeast. More than 15 centers for beauty, fitness and wellness are located here, encompassing day spas, salons, Crossfit, yoga, herbal therapy and more. Learn more about the spas, yoga and wellness options at the Blue Ridge Wellness blog. For a full listing, check out the Blue Ridge Spas & Wellness Guide.

Yoga Over Blue Ridge is a yoga community with practitioners who also offer bodywork, Thai massage, Energy Work/ Reiki AromaTouch and sound therapy. Look into their destination yoga events and private yoga parties. Nestled within acres of woodlands and enveloped by verdant landscapes, Willow Creek Falls stands as a serene oasis overlooking a tranquil lake, with the majestic Blue Ridge mountains gracing the horizon. This idyllic haven not only offers a breathtaking natural setting but also boasts an array of amenities to enhance your experience. Inside Willow Creek Falls, you'll find meticulously designed suites, thoughtfully crafted for your utmost comfort and relaxation. Additionally, the property houses Willow Creek Med Spa, a haven for wellness enthusiasts seeking rejuvenation through IV Hydration, Skin treatments, and massage therapy. For those looking to nourish their mind and body, Ascending Studios awaits, offering invigorating yoga classes, Pilates, Barre, and more. Clients come from around the country to experience the sanctuary of Serenity in the Mountains Spa and Lodge, which offers massage and hydrotherapy, Zen floating and a softly-illuminated Himalayan salt cave. TeaTree Spa is located in an intown luxury cabin and offers a full range of services from soothing massage therapy, holistic facials and therapeutic body treatments. Book a group of five or more girlfriends and savor a complimentary wine or cider, cheese, and cracker platter in the fireside lounge or on the outside deck.

Wines, Vines, Views and Brews

Award-winning wineries, Georgia grown hard cider, distilled spirits and outstanding craft breweries are all part of the Blue Ridge experience. Take a short drive to Mercier Orchards, one of the South's largest orchards and a family farm for 65 years. Buy just-picked fruit, local vegetables and baked goods for your stay, visit the tasting room and sample Georgia’s first hard cider and fruity wines like strawberry, blueberry, blackberry and apple. Bear Claw Vineyards delights with views of the mountains, the vineyards and unique and romantic treehouse accommodations. Serenberry Vineyards offers a relaxing spot for sipping and gathering in an open-air barn with covered seating.

Peruse this map of all the area wineries and breweries or visit the website for even more information.

If you’re looking for safe and reliable transport to wineries, dining or outdoor adventure, or your party is coming in from airports in Georgia, Southeastern Tennessee or Southwestern North Carolina, discuss your needs with Mountain Transportation, a prearranged car service that will drive you 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Shopping

Of all the towns in North Georgia, Blue Ridge has the largest array of specialty shops, boutiques and galleries for fine furnishings, art, antiques, clothing and jewelry. Looking for unique artisan-crafted items? Blue Ridge has been named one of the Top Ten Towns for Craft Lovers in the country. Check out more details here.

Dining

Blue Ridge is also a North Georgia foodie destination, with a plethora of casual, fine and late-night restaurants located throughout the downtown area.

For a sophisticated girls’ night out, The Black Sheep, features a locally sourced, chef-inspired New Americana menu and a Wine Spectator-recognized wine list and cocktails featuring house-produced moonshine in a historic home shaded by a 200-year-old oak tree. Favorites include Fried Calamari, Cold Water Oysters, Ribeye and Lamb Lollipop Chops, as well as desserts and cocktails featuring house-produced moonshine. Nearby, The Dogwood delights with 150 outside seats, a huge hand painted mural and 100+ year old trees—a completely unique dining and drinks experience that is ideal for soaking in the beautiful Georgia weather, amazing live music and the company of your best girlfriends. For rooftop dining with a view, Hook & Eye at Hampton Inn Blue Ridge offers a full bar, live music and inside or outside seating. The Vine and Eatery is Blue Ridge’s original wine bar, serving cheese plates, flatbreads, sandwiches and pours, tastings and bottles to go. The dog-friendly patio, along with a selection of craft beers and wine slushies make this Blue Ridge’s go-to place for unwinding and listening to some music. It’s possible to have fresh, sustainable seafood far from the coast at Whiskey & Water - Seafood and Bourbon Bar. Choose from oysters, clams, mussels, lobster and saltwater fish in on-point appetizers and entrees, with delicious options for those who don’t love or can’t eat seafood. Be sure to check out the fabulous drink and dessert menu at Mona Lisa’s Dessert House. Here is a complete list of dining options including desserteries.

In-House Chef

In addition to takeout and cooking in, Blue Ridge offers a spectacular dining-in experience.

Some of the ever-growing list of options include catering and private chefs such as Vee Culinary, who can prepare an amazing multi-course meal, entertain and provide all the details while guests relax and enjoy.