Helen was originally a Cherokee settlement, but the early 19th century brought plenty of European settlers looking to capitalize on the region's rich gold and timber industries. Today, it's known as a little slice of Bavaria in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains. It's one of the most charming towns in the country, inviting guests from all over the world to enjoy its amazing food, drinks, and attractions. From a replica Bavarian town to shopping to outdoor activities, it's truly a hidden paradise in the most unlikely place.
Regardless of your reason for visiting Helen, you need to have the right accommodation to make your trip memorable. With luxury, mid-range, and low-cost options, you're certain to discover a hotel that's ideal for your next journey.
When to Visit Helen, GA
Fall is one of the most popular times to visit Helen, Georgia, as the foliage changes from green to vibrant hues of red, orange, and yellow. In addition, Helen hosts many festivals during this time, including its annual Oktoberfest, the Georgia Mountain Fall Festival, and the Helen Arts and Crafts Festival. Hotels tend to fill up quickly during this time of year, so book well in advance.
During winter, Helen transforms with tons of Christmas decorations and holiday cheer. Lights, tinsel, wreaths, and more adorn the Bavarian-style buildings, giving you a glimpse of what Christmas looks like in Germany, but without the hefty price tag. Although it's not as popular as fall, hordes of people still flock to the city, despite colder-than-average temperatures compared to the rest of the state. If you're planning a trip at this time of the year, make sure to book accommodations early.
When seasons change from winter to spring, Helen becomes one of the most beautiful and exciting places in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Temperatures warm, as well, giving you comfortable weather for getting out and exploring nature. Despite the nice weather, temperatures can fluctuate rapidly, so make sure to dress in layers. Spring is one of the low times for tourists, so stay on the lookout for hotels at cut-rate prices.
Summer in Helen can get downright hot, with temperatures soaring into the 90s almost every day. However, streams, rivers, lakes, and a massive water park can help cool you down in a hurry. With so much to do during this season, tourists are everywhere. Book accommodations early to make sure you get the hotel you want at a price you'll love.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Helen, GA:
Helen, GA: Prices by Star Rating Class
Below are 3 charts illustrating avg. price trends by star rating class in Helen, GA. Browse these line graphs to determine the best time period to stay in Helen for your upcoming travels.
Luxury Hotel Options in Helen, GA
4 Star Average Prices: $145.50
Because of its remote location and its destination as an affordable vacation spot, Helen doesn't offer a ton of luxury accommodations. Fortunately, you can still find luxury a few miles from the center of Helen.
For a pampering experience that's just 20 miles from Helen, head to The Ridges Resort & Marina. Nestled on the banks of Lake Chatuge, this luxury resort is best-known for its water sports. Activities include kayaking, canoeing, fishing, and pontoon boat rentals. The more adventurous crowds can also rent jet skis and ski boats for the ultimate thrill. When you're tuckered out, you'll find your room warm and inviting, thanks to features such as a refrigerator, a flat-screen LCD television, a comfortable pillow top mattress, and free Wi-Fi. If you don't feel like going to bed just yet, hit up the nightclub for a drink or to dance.
With a cozy feel and European-style architecture, Lily Creek Lodge Bed and Breakfast is another solid luxury hotel choice. You-re just a 20-minute drive to Helen, but you're also near the Blue Ridge Mountains, the Appalachian Trail, Vickery House, and several gold mines. Recreational amenities are many and include a fireplace in the lobby, a seasonal outdoor pool, a spa tub, an arcade/game room, and a complimentary continental breakfast. The lodge offers 13 air-conditioned rooms with satellite programming, a microwave, DVD player, a desk, free wireless internet, complimentary premium toiletries, and a coffee maker.
Affordable Hotel Options in Helen, GA
3 Star Average Prices: $139.65
Despite its reputation as a tourist mecca, Helen has plenty of low-cost hotels with surprising amenities. The Quality Inn in Helen is just one of those places. Decked out in the same Bavarian style you'll find throughout town, the Quality Inn has tons of on-site amenities including free 24-hour coffee, a complimentary hot breakfast, and a seasonal outdoor pool. It's also near attractions such as Helen Water Park & Tubing, Habersham Vineyards and Winery, and Unicoi State Park. Once you're done exploring, you'll enjoy retiring to your room with perks such as a refrigerator, a microwave, coffee maker, hair dryer, iron, desk, and a whirlpool.
For another low-cost accommodation option, check out the Econo Lodge, just two minutes from the heart of Helen and conveniently located near Smithgall Woods State Park, Piedmont College, and the terrifying Live Tarantulas Gallery. The guest experience includes the free Easy Starts continental breakfast, a seasonal outdoor pool, a business center, and a 24-hour front desk for convenient check-in and checkout. When the day's done, head back to your room and enjoy a television with cable programming, a hair dryer, a microwave, a refrigerator, daily housekeeping, and free wireless internet.