Helen, Georgia
Located ten miles north of Cleveland on Highway 75 is Helen, Georgia. During the late 1960's towns near Helen were flourishing from tourism due to major transportation. Helen however was on the decline. Fortunately, several businessmen got together and came up with a plan to give  their town a new look. One of the gentlemen, John Kollock, loved the architecture and landscape of the Bavarian Alps, and submitted redecorating and designing their town to look like a mountain village. The plan was accepted and everyone got to work. Buildings in the business district were painted with murals of snow capped peaks and gingerbread trim was added to all the houses in town. Before long, a tourist attraction had emerged.
When you visit Helen you will find that while the buildings remind you of the Alpine their shops carry items found in any mid-western state fair. The stores carry items such as antiques, brownies, books, Indian jewelry, cigars, and Christmas decorations.
While Helen does not have any major scenic areas it is convenient to several mountain vistas, waterfalls, and hiking trails. If you enjoy canoeing, head to the Chattahoochee River / Sautee Creek just northwest of Helen, where there is a put-in spot. The take-out spot is just across from the Wildewood Outpost in Helen. North of Helen is the Anna Ruby Falls Scenic Area. Here you can see the twin falls cascading over cliffs, enjoy hiking trails and maybe even spot a wild turkey, deer, or squirrels who live in the region.
While visiting in Helen, you will find all varieties of food from pizza to knockwurst, German beers and fine wine. You can dine indoors or on a restaurant deck overlooking the Chattahoochee River – either way you will enjoy your stay in Helen.
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