VickiA156
We stopped here as we entered Helen, Georgia. So glad we did. The sweet lady who helped us was, well......HELPFUL! And very friendly....souther hospitality at its finest. She answered all of our typical questions of what to see, what to do, etc. And added a few extra little tips in the mix for us. We were very pleased with our short time there.....short being very nice because it gave us time to get out and about. She would have happily spent more time with us had we not been anxious to see the town.
cooger11
Quite heavy on the touristy side, but a nice respite from the hustle and bustle of a major metropolitan city like Atlanta. A little tough walking around for older folks, but then again I amin my later years (in old codger speak that means over 65), and didn't have much problem.I enjoyed the sweet shops more than the two restaurants we visited, pretty much typical German entrees, heavy but good once every two or three decades. A little pricey, but then again it is as I mentioned touristy.Little known fact, the Chattahoochee River has it's origin here as a small stream but along the way to Atlanta and further south becomes a very major waterway serving as the source of water for drinking, fishing, and boating.Nice little trip if you want to take time to learn the Cherokee history as well as Civil War events.Recommended with above caveats.
dannyc879
No free parking in city of Helen. If you want to walk around town and look inside shops then you must pay parking fees. Everywhere you go are signs saying no parking, keep out, or pay parking only. It is clear that the town wants the tourist money but doesn't want the tourist. Everything is over-priced and riding through town only takes five minutes. Unless you want beer, wine, a tattoo, or a leather jacket for motorcycle riding, I would recommend traveling somewhere else.
280jonathanl
This is a themed shopping district in late december. There are street performers, fudge and candy shops, and lots of souvenir shops.It is a great little tourist town that looks like an Alpine Village. If you are in the area with 2 hours to kill this is a relaxing little village to do it in.
RayD468
One stop here and you will have all the info on the surrounding area. very friendly staff and don't forget the waterfall/trail map.
60vic
The whole town was a disappointment - definitely does not meet expectations of a bavarian mountain town - music was not bavarian or even Appalachian - shops sold too much stuff made in china - only 2 store had original German made items. Food was bad and prices much too high. Model railroad was expensive to see and dirty. We got the feeling that ths was a tourist trap and the vendors were charging high prices for little value. I understand the traffic but it was a long traffic wait for a disappointing experience. We visitied on day after Thanksgiving. I hope you can make changes as there is great potential value in this town - has definitely declined since our last visit 8 years ago.
Barb_33914
Very nice place to have just off the main street. Staff was friendly and helpful and gave great directions to the various attractions we were interested in. A good place to stop if you are not familiar with the area.
colly111
We made a stop here to arm ourselves with maps (try not getting too lost on the back roads) and attraction ideas. Very helpful, upbeat staff.Thanks guys
Cricketnc
Stop here get coupons for local shops and for food. Got some great discounts for the local shops and buying little goodies for the folks back home
849yvonnee
Talk about friendly people. Always there to help you find what you are looking for, no matter what it is. They will point you in the right direction.
HyacintheL
There's always a carnival atmosphere in Alpine Helen. I tip my Tyrolean hat to the city vaters who dreamed up this way to drive tourism to their moribund mill town! Something for everyone in all the little shops and restaurants!
SandraHoskinson
Listened to a four-piece band which had a singer that could sing everything from soprano to bass. During intermissions another man played German music and varied kinds of popular music on an auto-instrument keyboard from 6:00 until 10:00. Excellent entertainment and the crowd was enthusiastic and danced to all the music.
LynneHill
Was not happy with the local bands playing load music on Main St. I was expecting more German polka music. Even if it was a recording. Maybe the month of October isn't the right time to go. Maybe more towards the opening of Oktoberfest in September would be best. Didn't like the appearance of the people doing the carriage rides. They looked like day labor very dirty and unkempt. So we passed on that. The Festhalle was fun out of all it. Might try again next Sept.
632CM
And the staff was friendly and helpful. Here you can find information about everything in the vicinity of Helen, GA. Also, nice restroom facilities available for travelers.
StlKUfan
Stop here first on your visit to Helen. This is a great spot to get all the information you need about your stay in Helen and surrounding area. The staff was helpful and friendly. If you want a small souvenir of Helen ( refrigerator magnet) get them here....much cheaper than the shops.