20 Things To Do In Ellijay For Under $20
Surrounded by the rolling hills of the North Georgia mountains, Ellijay is a charming town known for its apple orchards, scenic trails, pet-friendly atmosphere, and year-round events. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or a week, you’ll find no shortage of things to do without breaking the bank. From outdoor adventures and historic sites to delicious local eats, here are 20 fun and affordable activities in Ellijay—all under $20!
Outdoor Adventures
- River Park – Free
- Enjoy the scenic Coosawattee River, walking trails, playgrounds, and tennis & pickleball courts
- Tumbling Waters Trail at Carters Lake – $5 parking
- A beginner friendly hike with a beautiful waterfall at the end
- Tumbling Waters Trail at Carters Lake – $5 parking
- A short, family friendly hike with a lake overlook
- Harrison Park – Free
- A quiet park with walking paths and picnic tables, perfect for taking your pup on a stroll
- Take Photos at Ellijay’s Murals – Free
- Explore plenty of Instagrammable spots around Ellijay
📍 Downtown Ellijay Welcome Center
📍 Artful Ellijay
📍 Downtown Ellijay
📍 Grapes & Ladders
Local Attractions
- Visit Expedition: BIGFOOT! – $6-$9 Admission
- 3,700 square foot Bigfoot exhibit
- Shop & Browse Downtown Ellijay – Free
- Explore unique boutiques, antique stores, and gift shops.
- Visit the Tabor House & Civil War Museum – Donations accepted
- Step back in time at this Victorian-era home filled with artifacts of North Georgia’s history
- Attend the Ellijay Farmers Market (Saturdays, May-September) – Free
- Stroll through local vendors selling fresh produce and crafts.
- Check Out Art at Gilmer Arts Gallery – Donations accepted
- A local gallery showcasing regional artists.
Food & Drinks Under $20
- Try a Bowl of Soup at Cantaberry Restaurant
- Famous for their homemade soups and sandwiches.
- Grab a Poke Bowl from The Shack of Ellijay
- A local favorite for poke and noodle bowls, bubble teas, and more
- Get a Coffee at Ellijay Coffeehouse
- Cozy atmosphere with great lattes and pastries.
- Try a Cider Flight at Reece’s Cider Co.
- Sample locally made and packaged hard cider
- Enjoy a Sweet Treat at Abby’s Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt
- Build your own frozen yogurt bowl with toppings
Seasonal & Specialty Activities
- Pick Apples at Hillcrest Orchards (Seasonal)
- Fun for families with U-pick apples and farm activities
- Visit BJ Reece Orchards (Seasonal)
- Apple picking, wagon rides, and a petting farm
- Try Local Honey & Jams at Panorama Orchards
- A farm market with homemade apple butter, jams, and baked goods
- Watch a Movie at Mountain Cinemas
- A theater with new movie release offering a reduced price on Tuesdays
- Check Out a Local Festival (Like Apple Arts or the Apple Festival!)
- Annual fall events offering a wide variety of arts and crafts, food, and entertainment
Adventure Awaits In Ellijay, GA!
We love that you are even closer to visiting Ellijay! With the 2025 Ellijay Visitors Guide, you’ll get the chance to dig a little deeper into what makes Gilmer County the place to visit all year long.
To view the digital magazine now, simply enter your name and email address below. Prefer a hard copy? Include your mailing address to receive a FREE copy and get inspired by curated dining details, local favorites, and apple insights. You’ll be able to plan a trip that’s perfectly picked for you!
Adventure Awaits In Ellijay, GA!
We love that you are even closer to visiting Ellijay! With the 2025 Ellijay Visitors Guide, you’ll get the chance to dig a little deeper into what makes Gilmer County the place to visit all year long.
To view the digital magazine now, simply enter your name and email address below. Prefer a hard copy? Include your mailing address to receive a FREE copy and get inspired by curated dining details, local favorites, and apple insights. You’ll be able to plan a trip that’s perfectly picked for you!