14-Day Adventure Through Statesville, Helen, and the Smoky Mountains

Day 1: Local Festival Fun

Statesville, NC

10:00AM

Explore the NC Balloon Festival

Kick off your adventure at the annual North Carolina Balloon Festival, witnessing an extraordinary display of colorful hot air balloons against the crisp October sky.
Take local streets to the festival entrance at Iredell County Fairgrounds.
USD0, 4 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Capers

Indulge in a delicious farm-to-table experience at Capers, where you can savor fresh salads and artisanal sandwiches.
A short drive away from the festival, less than 10 minutes.
USD15, 1 hour

3:30PM

Visit Downtown Statesville

Stroll the charming streets of downtown, exploring local shops and perhaps catching some live music at a nearby café.
5-minute walk from lunch to downtown.
USD0, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at The Downtown Grill

Enjoy dinner at The Downtown Grill, known for its mouthwatering burgers and inviting atmosphere.
10-minute walk from downtown shops.
USD20, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Arts and Nature

Statesville, NC

9:00AM

Breakfast at The Olde North State

Start your day with a hearty breakfast featuring local favorites at this cozy spot.
Located in downtown Statesville.
USD10, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit the Iredell Museums

Immerse yourself in history and culture at the Iredell Museums, featuring exhibits that tell the story of the area.
A quick 5-minute drive from breakfast.
USD8, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Raise The Roof

Dig into a unique lunch experience with delicious specialty sandwiches and salads.
1-mile drive from the museums.
USD12, 1 hour

2:30PM

Lake Norman State Park

Spend a serene afternoon hiking or biking at Lake Norman State Park, enjoying the fall colors along the trails.
About a 30-minute drive from lunch.
USD0, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at El Paso Mexican Grill

End your day with vibrant flavors at El Paso, known for its authentic Mexican cuisine.
A short 25-minute drive back into Statesville.
USD18, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Adventure and Relaxation

Statesville, NC

8:30AM

Breakfast at The Coffee House

Savor artisanal coffee and freshly baked pastries to fuel your day.
Located downtown Statesville.
USD8, 1 hour

10:00AM

Hike at the Crescent Trail

Experience the scenic Crescent Trail, perfect for hiking and appreciating nature’s beauty.
10-minute drive from breakfast.
USD0, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Diner 115

Enjoy classic American diner fare at this local favorite.
15-minute drive from the trail.
USD12, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Fort Dobbs State Historic Site

Discover a piece of history at this site, which has exhibits and guided tours.
25-minute drive.
USD5, 2 hours

5:00PM

Reflections at Lake Lookout

Unwind as you watch the sun set over the tranquil waters of Lake Lookout.
10-minute drive from Fort Dobbs.
USD0, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at The Olive Garden

Enjoy Italian classics in a warm atmosphere to wrap up your day.
25-minute drive back to Statesville.
USD25, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Journey to Helen

Helen, GA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Biscuitville

A hearty southern breakfast to get you ready for the journey ahead.
5-minute drive to the I-77 South.
USD10, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Helen, GA

Travel through scenic highways and enjoy mountain views as you journey towards Helen, Georgia.
Continue on I-77 South and US-129 South for approximately 2 hours.
USD0, 2 hours

11:00AM

Check-in at the Helendorf River Inn

Settle into your cozy accommodations beside the Chattahoochee River.
Located at 33 Munich Strasse, Helen, GA.
USD130, 30 minutes

12:00PM

Lunch at The Bavarian Restaurant

Experience authentic German cuisine at this charming eatery in the heart of Helen.
1-minute walk from your hotel.
USD20, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore Helen’s Alpine Village

Wander through the unique shops and art galleries that reflect the Bavarian architecture.
Located around the town center.
USD0, 2 hours

3:30PM

River Tubing Adventure

Spend an exciting afternoon floating down the Chattahoochee River and basking in the natural beauty surrounding you.
Tubing groups are located near the center of town.
USD25, 3 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Hofbrauhaus

Dine at this lively restaurant, known for its beer and traditional German entrees.
A short 5-minute walk from the tubing area.
USD22, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Nature and Adventure

Helen, GA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Baker's Corner

Enjoy a delightful breakfast with homemade pastries and coffee.
Located in the downtown area.
USD12, 1 hour

9:30AM

Hiking at Anna Ruby Falls

Take a short drive to this beautiful waterfall where you can hike and take in the views.
30-minute drive from Helen.
USD3, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Nacoochee Grill

Feast on fresh, southern-inspired dishes accompanied by local craft beers.
15 minutes from the falls.
USD18, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit the Northeast Georgia History Center

Explore Cherokee and Gold Rush history in this interactive museum in the county seat.
30-minute drive from lunch.
USD10, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Wine Tasting at Serenity Cellars

Relax in the tranquil atmosphere with some local wine tasting to end the day.
25-minute drive from the history center.
USD20, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Café International

Enjoy a fusion of international cuisines at this well-known local restaurant.
30-minute drive back to Helen.
USD22, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Cultural Immersion

Helen, GA

9:00AM

Breakfast at the Hofer’s Bakery

Start your day with some delightful pastries and a cup of coffee from this German bakery.
Located in downtown Helen.
USD10, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit the Bettys Boop Museum

Immerse yourself in pop culture history at this quirky museum celebrating Betty Boop.
Located downtown.
USD5, 1 hour

11:30AM

Explore the Unicoi State Park

Discover stunning scenery, hiking trails, and perhaps a chance to spot some wildlife.
20-minute drive from the museum.
USD5, 3 hours

3:00PM

Lunch at The Petunia’s Place

Enjoy lunch surrounded by nature at this charming café.
30-minute drive back into Helen.
USD15, 1 hour

4:30PM

Cultural Experiences at Folk Pottery Museum

Learn about regional heritage and the art of folk pottery at this unique museum.
10-minute drive from lunch.
USD0, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The River’s Edge

This restaurant offers fantastic riverside dining with southern cuisine.
20-minute drive back into Helen.
USD25, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Onward to the Smokies

Smoky Mountains

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Cornerstone Café

Enjoy some fantastic pancakes and coffee to start your day right.
In downtown Helen.
USD10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to the Smoky Mountains

Take the scenic route through the forested roads, gearing up for an adventure in nature.
About 1.5 hours drive north on US-129 N.
USD0, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Visit Clingmans Dome

Hike to the highest point in Tennessee for breathtaking panoramic views of the Smokies.
Follow the signs from the park entrance.
USD0, 2.5 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at The Smoky Mountain Café

Refuel with Appalachian specialties in a cozy diner setting.
Drive back down from Clingmans Dome.
USD15, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Cades Cove

Drive through this scenic valley, stopping at historic buildings and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Continue onward from lunch.
USD0, 3 hours

6:30PM

Check-in to the Mountain Lodge

Unwind for the evening in your lodge surrounded by the beauty of the Smokies.
Located in Pigeon Forge, about a 30-minute drive from Cades Cove.
USD150, 1 hour

8:00PM

Dinner at The Old Mill Restaurant

Savor comforting southern cuisine served in a historic setting.
Nearby your lodge in Pigeon Forge.
USD25, 1.5 hours
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Day 8: Nature Exploration

Smoky Mountains

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Lodge

Start the day with a hearty breakfast buffet at your lodge.
At Mountain Lodge.
USD0, 1 hour

9:00AM

Hiking at Alum Cave Trail

Embark on a famous hiking trail leading to stunning views and geological features.
Drive to the trailhead, about 30 minutes from the lodge.
USD0, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at A. J.’s Restaurant

Enjoy freshly prepared sandwiches and salads served in a mountain-style eatery.
20-minute drive back towards Pigeon Forge.
USD18, 1 hour

2:30PM

Gatlinburg SkyLift Park

Ride the scenic chairlift for panoramic views of the Smokies and enjoy the SkyBridge, the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in North America.
Drive 20 minutes to the park.
USD25, 2.5 hours

5:00PM

Explore Downtown Gatlinburg

Wander the vibrant streets, filled with shops, and perhaps some local moonshine tasting.
Only a 5-minute walk from SkyLift.
USD0, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at The Peddler Steakhouse

Enjoy a lovely lakeside steak dinner at this renowned restaurant.
5-minute walk from downtown Gatlinburg.
USD30, 1.5 hours
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Day 9: Pioneering the Mountains

Smoky Mountains

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Lodge

Fuel up with another delightful breakfast at your lodge.
At Mountain Lodge.
USD0, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit the Sugarlands Visitor Center

Start your day learning about the national park and its history through informative exhibits.
15-minute drive from the lodge.
USD0, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Hiking the Laurel Falls Trail

Take an easy hike to one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the park.
Drive 30 minutes to the trailhead.
USD0, 2.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch Picnic in the Park

Pack a lunch to enjoy amidst nature at one of the designated picnic areas.
Find a spot close to the Laurel Falls trail.
USD10, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Explore Elkmont Historic District

Discover the remnants of a bustling resort town and learn about its history.
Around a 30-minute drive.
USD0, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Cabin Restaurant

Unwind with a cozy dinner featuring hearty, homemade dishes.
30 minutes from Elkmont.
USD22, 1.5 hours
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Day 10: Wildlife Wonders

Smoky Mountains

7:30AM

Breakfast at the Lodge

Another morning of mouthwatering breakfast options available at the lodge.
At Mountain Lodge.
USD0, 1 hour

9:00AM

Wildlife Watching at Cades Cove Loop

Spend time driving the scenic loop road, looking for deer, bears, and wild turkeys.
Head back to Cades Cove.
USD0, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Hairy Lemon

Relax at this casual Irish pub with delicious sandwich options.
A short drive from the loop.
USD12, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore The Little River Road

Take a picturesque drive along this beautiful road, perfect for photography and sightseeing.
Drive along starting from the restaurant.
USD0, 2 hours

3:30PM

Visit the Museum of the Cherokee Indian

Delve into the history and culture of the Cherokee people at this informative museum.
One-hour drive.
USD10, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Filling Station Diner

Indulge in some comfort food at this diner with a quirky atmosphere.
15-minute drive from the museum.
USD20, 1.5 hours
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Day 11: Scenic Relaxation

Smoky Mountains

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Lodge

Enjoy one final breakfast feast at your lodge.
At Mountain Lodge.
USD0, 1 hour

9:00AM

Take in the Views at Oconaluftee Visitor Center

Marvel at exhibits and the stunning landscape surrounding the visitor center.
20-minute drive from the lodge.
USD0, 1 hour

10:30AM

Relax at Oconaluftee Islands Park

Enjoy a leisurely stroll and relax by the river, taking in the beauty of nature.
Located near the visitor center.
USD0, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Paul’s Family Diner

Try hearty diner classics that highlight local flavors.
Drive to Cherokee, 30 minutes away.
USD15, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit the Unto These Hills Outdoor Drama

Experience a captivating performance that tells the story of the Cherokee people.
5-minute drive from lunch.
USD18, 2 hours

5:00PM

Explore Downtown Cherokee

Wander the shops, and perhaps grab a homemade treat before heading to your next destination.
Within walking distance from the performance.
USD0, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at The Chippewa Grill

Enjoy a laid-back dinner at this local favorite known for its salmon and burgers.
A short drive from downtown.
USD20, 1.5 hours
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Day 12: Last Day in the Smokies

Smoky Mountains

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Lodge

Indulge in your last breakfast at the lodge before heading out.
At Mountain Lodge.
USD0, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail

Enjoy beautiful drives with opportunities for short hikes and wildflower viewing.
Drive about 30 minutes to the entrance.
USD0, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Sticky Fingers Rib House

Treat yourself to some finger-licking good barbecue.
Head 20 minutes to Gatlinburg.
USD15, 1 hour

1:30PM

Final Reflections at the Park

Take your last moments to soak up the natural beauty of the park before leaving.
Explore one of Gatlinburg’s scenic spots.
USD0, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Travel back to Statesville, NC

Leave this beautiful destination behind as you make your way back home.
Follow US-441 South, approximately 2.5 hours back to Statesville.
USD0, 2.5 hours
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Day 13: Unwind in Statesville

Statesville, NC

10:00AM

Brunch at The Egg & I

Indulge in a relaxed brunch to catch up after your amazing journey.
Located at the center of Statesville.
USD15, 1 hour

12:00PM

Relax at the Community Center Park

Spend a peaceful afternoon in the park, enjoying nature and reminiscing about your trip.
5-minute drive.
USD0, 2 hours

2:00PM

Visit the Iredell County Fairgrounds

Take a slow stroll around the fairgrounds, reflecting on the experiences from the NC Balloon Festival.
5-minute drive.
USD0, 1 hour

4:00PM

Coffee at The Coffee House

Sip on artisan coffee while catching up with friends or writing memories from your trip.
Located 5 minutes away.
USD5, 1 hour
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Day 14: Wrap-Up Journey

Statesville, NC

9:00AM

Breakfast at Timmy’s Café

Enjoy a hearty breakfast to kick off your final day.
Located in the heart of Statesville.
USD10, 1 hour

10:30AM

Final Reflections at Lake Norman

Spend some time gazing at the peaceful waters of Lake Norman, soaking in the beauty one last time.
30-minute drive from Statesville.
USD0, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Landings Restaurant

Enjoy a waterfront lunch with your loved ones as you reminisce about your journey.
A short drive from the lake.
USD20, 1.5 hours
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