14-Day Adventure Road Trip: From Helen, GA to Statesville, NC and the Smoky Mountains

Day 1: Arrival at Helen

Helen, GA

9:00AM

Breakfast at The Greenhouse Cafe

Start your trip with a hearty breakfast at this local favorite, famous for its outdoor seating and homemade pastries.
Walk to The Greenhouse Cafe.
USD15, 1 hour

10:30AM

Explore Helen's Bavarian Village

Stroll through Helen, a charming Bavarian-style village filled with unique shops and architecture.
Walk around the village, it's compact.
USD0, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Old Bavaria Inn

Enjoy authentic German cuisine in a cozy atmosphere, with options like schnitzels and bratwurst.
5-minute walk from the village.
USD20, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Anna Ruby Falls

Take a short hike to view the stunning Anna Ruby Falls, a perfect blend of nature and relaxation.
Drive 15 minutes from town.
USD5, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Riverbend Restaurant

End your day with riverside dining, offering a lovely view and hearty southern-style dishes.
Drive back to Helen, about 15 minutes.
USD25, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Adventure in Helen

Helen, GA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Paul’s Restaurant

Visit Paul’s Restaurant for delicious southern breakfasts, including fluffy pancakes and fresh coffee.
Walk to Paul’s Restaurant.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Tubing on the Chattahoochee River

Enjoy a fun-filled morning tubing down the Chattahoochee River, perfect for both relaxation and excitement.
Walk to tubing rental location nearby.
USD25, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Yonder Gallery & Cafe

Indulge in light bites and coffee while browsing local art and crafts.
5-minute drive from tubing.
USD18, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit the Folk Pottery Museum of Northeast Georgia

Discover the rich history of pottery in the region, with live demonstrations and informative exhibits.
5-minute drive from lunch.
USD5, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Big Daddy's

Wrap up your day with BBQ and comfort food in a relaxed atmosphere downtown.
5-minute drive to Big Daddy's.
USD20, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Scenic Drive to Blue Ridge

Blue Ridge, GA

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Honey Café

Enjoy a cozy breakfast at The Honey Café, known for its fresh ingredients and local honey dishes.
5-minute drive to The Honey Café.
USD12, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Blue Ridge

Set out on a picturesque drive through the mountains to Blue Ridge, experiencing stunning views.
Drive 1 hour via GA-75 N.
USD0, 1 hour

11:00AM

Visit Mercier Orchards

Pick your own apples or enjoy a wine tasting at this family-owned orchard surrounded by beautiful landscapes.
10-minute drive from Blue Ridge center.
USD10, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Fightingtown Tavern

Savor burgers and local craft beers while soaking in the warm and inviting atmosphere.
Drive 5 minutes from the orchard.
USD15, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Blue Ridge Scenic Railway

Board the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway for an unforgettable ride through the lush countryside and mountain vistas.
Tickets can be bought in town.
USD40, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Harvest on Main

Enjoy fine dining with local and seasonal ingredients in an upscale yet friendly atmosphere.
Walk back to downtown Blue Ridge.
USD30, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Culture and Mountains

Asheville, NC

8:00AM

Breakfast at Early Girl Eatery

A must-visit for farm-to-table Southern comfort food in a relaxed setting.
Drive 1 hour to Asheville.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Biltmore Estate

Discover America's largest home, filled with art, gardens, and history, set in spectacular surroundings.
20-minute drive from breakfast location.
USD60, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Sadie’s Café

A charming café offering an array of tasty sandwiches and locally sourced salads.
Drive back to downtown Asheville.
USD20, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit the River Arts District

Wander through artists' studios and galleries, offering a glimpse into Asheville's vibrant arts scene.
5-minute drive from lunch.
USD0, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Curate

Delight in authentic Spanish tapas served in an elegant setting, perfect for food lovers.
5-minute drive from the arts district.
USD50, 2 hours
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Day 5: Great Smokies Adventure

Great Smoky Mountains National Park, NC

8:00AM

Breakfast at Biscuit Head

Enjoy hearty Southern breakfast biscuits topped with unique spreads, to fuel your day in nature.
Drive 1 hour to the park entrance.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Hike Clingmans Dome

Experience the highest point in the Smokies, offering breathtaking panoramic views from the observation tower.
Drive 30 minutes from the park entrance.
USD0, 3 hours

1:00PM

Pack a picnic lunch

Bring along sandwiches and refreshments to enjoy amidst the fresh mountain air and beautiful scenery.
Prepare picnic before heading out for the day.
USD10, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Cades Cove

Take a scenic drive or bike ride through Cades Cove, where you can see historic homesteads and wildlife.
Drive to Cades Cove entrance.
USD0, 3 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Park Grill

Savor classic American fare in a rustic mountain lodge setting near the park entrance.
Drive back to the area by park entrance.
USD25, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Nature and Relaxation

Great Smoky Mountains National Park, NC

8:00AM

Breakfast at Donut Friar

Indulge in freshly made donuts and coffee, a perfect treat to fuel your day of adventure.
Drive to Gatlinburg for breakfast.
USD10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail

Enjoy a scenic drive showcasing lush forests and historic buildings, with opportunities for hiking along the way.
Drive to Roaring Fork entrance.
USD0, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Peddler Steakhouse

Savor a delicious steak lunch with stunning views of the mountains and river.
Drive back to Gatlinburg.
USD35, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Gatlinburg SkyLift Park

Take the scenic chairlift for gorgeous views and walk across the SkyBridge, the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in America.
Drive to SkyLift Park.
USD25, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Smoky Mountain Brewery

Enjoy pub fare complemented by craft beer brewed right on site in a casual atmosphere.
Drive back into Gatlinburg.
USD25, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Fun and Entertainment

Gatlinburg, TN

8:00AM

Breakfast at Johnny Rockets

Relish classic diner fare with a twist, filling up on pancakes and egg sandwiches.
Walk to Johnny Rockets.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies

Explore one of the best aquariums in the country, featuring a variety of marine life and interactive exhibits.
Walk to the aquarium.
USD35, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Cherokee Grill

Enjoy a hearty meal at this popular mountain lodge-style restaurant, featuring a cozy ambiance and great food.
Drive to the restaurant in Gatlinburg.
USD25, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Walk through the Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community

Visit this 8-mile loop showcasing talented local artisans and their handmade goods.
Drive to the Arts and Crafts loop.
USD0, 2 hours

4:00PM

Dinner at The Smoky Mountain Lodge

Unwind with some comfort food after a fun-filled day in the mountains and vicinity.
Drive back to Gatlinburg.
USD20, 1.5 hours
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Day 8: Pigeon Forge Excursion

Pigeon Forge, TN

8:00AM

Breakfast at Mama's Farmhouse

Indulge in a family-style breakfast with ample portions, featuring southern classics.
Drive to Pigeon Forge.
USD20, 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Visit Dollywood

Spend an exciting day at this world-renowned theme park known for roller coasters, shows, and crafts.
Short drive to Dollywood.
USD85, 6 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at The Old Mill Restaurant

Enjoy a unique dining experience at this converted mill serving traditional Southern cuisine.
Close to Dollywood.
USD30, 1.5 hours
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Day 9: Cultural Immersion

Cherokee, NC

9:00AM

Breakfast at Peter 1's Diner

Fuel up with American diner classics before a day of adventure.
Drive to Cherokee.
USD15, 1 hour

10:30AM

Explore the Museum of the Cherokee Indian

Learn about Cherokee history, culture, and contributions through engaging exhibits.
Drive to the museum.
USD10, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Cherokee Grill

Enjoy a delicious lunch featuring freshly sourced local ingredients.
Walk to the grill.
USD20, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit the Oconaluftee Indian Village

Experience living history and see demonstrations of traditional Cherokee crafts.
Drive to the village.
USD15, 2.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Sautee Nacho's

Finish the day with flavorful tacos and an array of salsas in a relaxed environment.
Drive back towards Cherokee and stop at Sautee Nacho's.
USD18, 1.5 hours
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Day 10: Relaxing in Bryson City

Bryson City, NC

9:00AM

Breakfast at The Filling Station Diner

Start your day with diner classics served in a nostalgic atmosphere.
Drive to Bryson City.
USD15, 1 hour

10:30AM

Enjoy the Great Smoky Mountains Railway

Hop on the scenic train ride through the picturesque landscape with stunning views.
Near the diner.
USD60, 4 hours

3:00PM

Lunch at Smoky Mountain Brewery

Relax with a late lunch and enjoy craft brew selections and casual eats.
5-minute walk from the train station.
USD25, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Visit Deep Creek

Spend the late afternoon hiking along the scenic trails or enjoying the river.
Drive to Deep Creek.
USD0, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at The Mountain View Restaurant

Savor homestyle cooking with a sunset view as you unwind from the day.
Drive back to Bryson City.
USD25, 1.5 hours
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Day 11: Journey to Statesville

Statesville, NC

8:00AM

Breakfast at Dine In Diner

Enjoy a classic, hearty breakfast to fuel up for the road trip ahead.
Drive 1 hour to Statesville.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Lake Norman

Stop at Lake Norman for outdoor activities such as kayaking or simply enjoying the views.
20-minute drive from Statesville.
USD20, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Epic Chophouse

Savor flame-grilled steak and seafood in an upscale environment overlooking the lake.
Drive back to Statesville.
USD50, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Iredell County Museum

Explore local history exhibits and learn about the area's past.
Nearby the lunch spot.
USD5, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Marlowe

End your day at a contemporary bistro known for its creative dishes and vibrant atmosphere.
Walk from the museum.
USD25, 1.5 hours
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Day 12: History and Culture

Statesville, NC

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Downtown Deli

Grab a quick bite at this casual deli known for its delicious bagels and sandwiches.
Walk to The Downtown Deli.
USD10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Fort Dobbs State Historic Site

Delve into the region's colonial history at this reconstructed fort with interesting exhibits.
Drive to Fort Dobbs.
USD2, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Root & Vine

Enjoy a fresh farm-to-table meal at one of Statesville’s top-rated restaurants.
Drive back to Statesville.
USD20, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Explore the historic downtown Statesville

Wander the charming streets of downtown, browsing local shops and learning about its history.
Walk around the downtown area.
USD0, 2 hours

4:00PM

Visit the Statesville Historical Museum

Discover the rich history of Iredell County through engaging exhibits and artifacts.
10-minute walk from downtown.
USD5, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Barbecue Shack

End your day with some good ol' Southern barbecue in a friendly setting.
Short drive from the museum.
USD15, 1.5 hours
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Day 13: Final Day of Exploration

Charlotte, NC

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Diamond Restaurant

A local favorite offering a wide range of breakfast staples, sure to satisfy your cravings.
Drive to Charlotte.
USD15, 1 hour

10:00AM

Explore NASCAR Hall of Fame

Get ready for a thrilling experience celebrating the history and heritage of NASCAR.
Drive to NASCAR Hall of Fame.
USD25, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Queen City Q

Taste award-winning barbecue along with classic Southern sides in a modern setting.
Drive to lunch spot.
USD20, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art

Enjoy an inspiring modern art collection, including works by Picasso and Calder.
Drive to the museum.
USD12, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at 300 East

Complete your adventure with a contemporary dinner menu, focusing on seasonal ingredients.
Drive to 300 East.
USD35, 2 hours
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Day 14: Departure

Charlotte, NC

8:00AM

Breakfast at Amelie's French Bakery

Treat yourself to a delightful selection of pastries and coffees to prepare for your journey home.
Drive to Amelie's.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Final Stroll in Freedom Park

Take a leisurely stroll through this picturesque park before heading home, reflecting on your journey.
Drive 15 minutes to the park.
USD0, 1 hour

11:00AM

Departure

Head home, cherishing memories created during your unforgettable trip.
Drive to departing location.
USD0, Flexible
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