Things To Do In Helen

Helen, Georgia is an amazing day trip destination.

Whether you’re coming from the Atlanta metro, Athens, or Greenville, Helen is an easy drive to the Blue Ridge mountains. Despite the full-time population of Helen being very low, this tiny town has transformed itself into the 3rd most visited city in Georgia. Considering some of the competition, this was no easy feat.

You’ll find that most of what there is to do in Helen can be found on the main strip through the town.  It’s best to find a parking spot or if you’re staying at one of the local hotels just leave your car and take a stroll right through town.

There are an array of small mom-and-pop shops, restaurants, and other business geared toward the tourist industry.  Most of Helen is now Bavarian-themed which fits perfectly into the surroundings. There is even a small river that flows through Helen so if you’re into floating, you may want to check it out in the summer.

Decades ago there was a car museum in Helen. The collection of classic cars was privately owned and many were available for purchase. Unfortunately, the collection is no longer in Helen, but if you’re an automotive enthusiast all you have to do is head south for less than 20 minutes and you’ll find yourself in Clarkesville, Georgia.

Clarkesville, Georgia is home to Miles Through Time Automotive Museum. Miles Through Time is a 501c3 nonprofit automotive and history museum that was founded by Sean Mathis in 2017 with only his Pop’s 1959 Cadillac Coupe De Ville.

Now when you visit Miles Through Time you’ll see upwards of 60 full-size vehicles that change regularly, ranging from over 100 years old to more modern and one of a kind.  In addition to full-size vehicles, there are also vintage motorcycles, bicycles, planes, trains, a complete town, and over 5,000 model cars on display.

The car museum is located in the back of the Old Clarkesville Mill and is supported by Vintage Garage Antiques.  Vintage Garage Antiques is full of treasures to find and tickets to the museum can be purchased at the front counter.

Both Vintage Garage Antiques and Miles Through Time Automotive Museum are open daily from 10 to 5. Head towards the old 61 VW Beetle 15 feet in the tower and you find the giant teal doors that will lead you into the entrance of Vintage Garage Antiques.

While you’re there take your picture with the 47 Chevy and 53 Nash yard art exhibit and use the hashtag #milesthroughtime.

Adult admission is $15. Kids 6-12 are $6 and kids under 6 are free.