Jasper, Georgia: Where Fun and Adventure Collide – Best Things to Do and Places to Visit

Jasper, Georgia: Where Fun and Adventure Collide - Best Things to Do a, Jasper, Georgia

Jasper sits in the foothills of the Blue Ridge, a short drive north of Atlanta. Almost everything on this page worth eating is within a short drive of the town square. The wineries are the exception. Sharp Mountain, Fainting Goat and Chateau Meichtry all sit up in the hills and all need a car and a nominated driver. Amicalola Falls and the Chattahoochee National Forest ask a good deal more of you than any of that does. The food does not.

Are you planning a trip to Jasper, Georgia and wondering what to do and where to go? Jasper is a small town in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, running a genuine range of activities. Outdoor adventures, historical marvels, family fun, or art and culture, Jasper covers all four.

A Taste of Jasper, Georgia is the experience to build the visit around. Savor the Flavors of North Georgia by working through the local wineries and vineyards, including Fainting Goat Vineyards and Winery, which runs wine tastings with the mountains in view. And do not skip the Southern cuisine at restaurants such as 61 Main, which serves farm-to-table dishes made with locally sourced ingredients.

Outdoor Adventures are plentiful in Jasper, which makes it the destination for anybody who wants to be outdoors. Take a hike in the Amicalola Falls State Park, which holds a serious waterfall and a range of hiking trails. You can also go fishing, camping or horseback riding in the nearby Chattahoochee National Forest.

Key Takeaways

Jasper, Georgia offers a variety of activities for everyone to enjoy, including outdoor adventures, historical marvels, family fun, and art and culture.
Savor the Flavors of North Georgia by visiting the local wineries and vineyards, and trying the delicious Southern cuisine at restaurants like 61 Main.
Outdoor enthusiasts will love the hiking trails in Amicalola Falls State Park and the Chattahoochee National Forest.

A Taste of Jasper, Georgia

Jasper, Georgia is a small town that eats far above its size. As the “Marble Capital of Georgia,” you might expect marble-flavored dishes, but that is not the case. What you get instead is Southern cuisine done properly enough to make your taste buds sit up.

Start the culinary journey at the Woodbridge Inn Restaurant, a local favorite that has been open since 1880. You feel the years in the building as you eat classic Southern dishes such as fried chicken, collard greens and pecan pie.

If you want something more upscale, head to 61 Main, a farm-to-table restaurant that sources its ingredients from local farms. The menu changes frequently based on what is in season, but the dishes come out fresh and full of flavor every time.

For the Italian side of Jasper, stop by Mama Mia’s Italian Restaurant. The menu runs classic Italian dishes such as spaghetti and meatballs, lasagna and chicken parmesan, alongside unexpected turns including the shrimp and grits.

If you want a quick bite, swing by the Jasper Cafe. This small spot serves breakfast all day, along with sandwiches, burgers and salads. Do not miss the homemade desserts, which are always the reason people stay for another coffee.

Wherever you choose to eat in Jasper, you leave with a full stomach and a good mood.

Savor the Flavors

Looking for a gastronomic adventure in Jasper, Georgia? You are in luck. This small town holds a range of local restaurants, wineries and breweries that will keep your taste buds working. Here are the places to eat, drink and be merry in Jasper.

Dine in Downtown Jasper

If you want a dining experience you will not get elsewhere, head to downtown Jasper. Here you find a range of local restaurants serving genuinely good cuisine. From classic Southern comfort food through to international flavors, the range covers everybody.

Check out the Jasper City Market, a local favorite that serves fresh, seasonal dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. And if you are in the mood for barbecue, head to Poole’s BBQ, where the smoked meats are as good as any in town.

Sip and Savor at Local Wineries

Jasper is also home to several local wineries, where you can sample some of Georgia’s stronger wines. Stop by Sharp Mountain Vineyards for a tasting of their award-winning wines, or head to Fainting Goat Vineyards for a glass of their signature Cabernet Franc.

And if you want a romantic evening out, make a reservation at Chateau Meichtry Family Vineyard and Winery. This winery looks out over the surrounding mountains and runs a comfortable room that suits a date night.

Breweries: For the Love of Beer

Are you a beer lover? Then check out the local breweries in Jasper. Head to the Talking Rock Brewery for a flight of their craft beers, or stop by the Wild Heaven Beer Garden for a pint of their popular Emergency Drinking Beer.

And if you want a beer experience you will not get elsewhere, check out the Cartecay River Brewing Company. This rustic brewery sits on the banks of the Cartecay River and runs a range of seasonal beers worth working through.

So what are you waiting for? Grab a glass, a bottle or a flight and savor the flavors of Jasper, Georgia.

Outdoor Adventures

Are you ready to get outdoors in Jasper, Georgia? From hiking trails to fishing spots to golf courses, the outdoor activities here are plentiful. Here are the ways to get outside and use the fresh air:

Hiking Trails to Explore

Jasper sits in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, so it is no surprise that there are plenty of hiking trails to work through. A seasoned hiker or a complete beginner, there is a trail here for you. Check the following hikes for the long views:

Amicalola Falls State Park: This park boasts the tallest cascading waterfall in the Southeast. Take the stairs to the top for a stunning view or hike the 8.5-mile trail to Springer Mountain.

Talking Rock Nature Preserve: This 3.5-mile trail offers a peaceful walk through the woods and along Talking Rock Creek.

Fort Mountain State Park: This park has over 25 miles of trails to explore, including the 8.2-mile Gahuti Trail.

Fishing Spots

If you are an angler, Jasper has plenty of fishing spots to keep you occupied. Cast your line in the following locations:

Tails Creek: This creek is stocked with rainbow trout and is a popular spot for fly fishing.

Carters Lake: This 3,200-acre lake has plenty of bass, crappie, and catfish.

Amicalola Creek: This creek is home to brown and rainbow trout.

Golfing in Jasper

Looking to hit the links? Jasper has several good golf courses to choose from:

Bent Tree Golf Course: This 18-hole course is located in the Bent Tree community and offers stunning mountain views.

Big Canoe Golf Course: This course is located in the Big Canoe community and offers 27 holes of golf.

Old Toccoa Farm: This course is located in nearby Mineral Bluff and offers 18 holes of golf along the Toccoa River.

So what are you waiting for? Lace up your hiking boots, grab your fishing pole, or hit the links for a day outdoors in Jasper, Georgia.

Historical Marvels

Jasper, Georgia is a city carrying real history, and there are plenty of historical marvels to work through. Here are two attractions that will take you back in time.

Touring the Old Pickens County Jail

If you follow true crime, you will want to tour the Old Pickens County Jail. This historic jail was built in 1906 and served as the county jail until 1982. Today it is a museum that shows visitors what life was like for inmates back then.

As you walk through the jail, you see the cells where prisoners were kept, the exercise yard where they got fresh air, and the gallows where executions were carried out. You also learn about some of the jail’s more notorious inmates, including a man who was convicted of murder and sentenced to death by hanging.

Marvel at the Marble

Jasper is known as the Marble Capital of Georgia, and for good reason. The city is home to the Georgia Marble Company, which has been quarrying marble in the area since the 1800s. Today you can see some of the strongest examples of this marble at the Tate House, a mansion that was built in the 1920s.

The Tate House is a National Register of Historic Places site and is open for tours. As you work through the mansion, you see the intricate marble work on the floors, the walls and the staircase. You also learn about the history of the Tate family, who founded the Georgia Marble Company.

If you follow antiques, visit the nearby antique mall, where you find a broad spread of vintage and antique items, including furniture, art and collectibles. And if Native American history interests you, do not miss the nearby Talking Rock Park, which holds a Native American monument and several other historical sites.

So a history buff or somebody simply after a good day out, Jasper has plenty of historical marvels to work through.

Family Fun in Jasper

Looking for a family-friendly destination that runs activities for all ages? Jasper, Georgia is the answer. From wildlife encounters to shopping, this small southern town covers everybody.

Wildlife Encounters

Get up close and personal with some of nature’s most fascinating creatures at the Wildlife Walkabout. This family-owned and operated attraction allows you to interact with a variety of animals, including kangaroos, lemurs, and even a zebra! Take a guided tour or explore on your own, and don’t forget to snap some pictures with your new furry friends.

Shopping Spree

Looking to do some shopping? Jasper has you covered! Head to the Pickens County Chamber of Commerce and Visitor Center to browse a variety of local shops and pick up some unique souvenirs. From handmade crafts to locally sourced foods, there’s something for everyone in this charming gift shop.

Theater Time with Tater Patch Players

Catch a live show at the Tater Patch Players Theater, a community theater that offers a variety of productions throughout the year. From classic plays to musicals, there’s always something entertaining happening on stage. Grab some snacks from the concession stand and settle in for a comfortable and enjoyable show.

Jasper runs a safe and comfortable environment for families to work through a range of attractions and activities. Prices are reasonable and parking is plentiful. A day trip or a weekend getaway, Jasper is the destination for friends and family to make something worth remembering.

Woodbridge Inn Restaurant has been open since 1880 and still serves fried chicken, collard greens and pecan pie. 61 Main changes its menu with the season, because it buys from farms nearby. Poole’s BBQ smokes. Mama Mia’s handles the Italian, including a shrimp and grits that is not Italian at all. Jasper Cafe does breakfast at any hour. That is the whole town in a single paragraph, and you can walk most of it inside one afternoon without hurrying.

Where to Stay

So you are planning a trip to Jasper, Georgia? Good for you. You are in for a treat. Now, where are you going to stay? Let us take a look at your options.

Hotels

If you want a traditional hotel experience, Jasper has you covered. There are several hotels in the area running comfortable accommodations and all the amenities you could want. Check out the following options:

Hotel Name	Amenities	Price Range
Microtel Inn & Suites	Free breakfast, Wi-Fi, and parking	$
Super 8 by Wyndham	Free breakfast, Wi-Fi, and parking	$
Woodbridge Inn	On-site restaurant, bar, and free parking	$$

Cabins

Want to get closer to nature? Rent a cabin. Jasper has plenty of options for cabin rentals, whether the plan is a small hideaway or something at the high end. Here are the ones to consider:

Camping

If you really want to rough it, go camping. Jasper has several campgrounds in the area that let you sleep under the stars and get properly into the outdoors. Just make sure you bring bug spray. Here are the campgrounds to consider:

Wherever you decide to stay, Jasper gives you an experience you will not get elsewhere. Happy travels.

Art and Culture

Jasper, Georgia may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of art and culture, but this small town has plenty up its sleeve. From art galleries to Native American heritage sites, Jasper repays a culture enthusiast’s attention.

Art Galleries

If you follow art, you are in luck. Jasper is home to several art galleries showing the work of local artists. One of the popular galleries is the Sharptop Arts Association, which runs rotating exhibits of paintings, sculptures and pottery. The gallery also hosts workshops and classes, so you can try your own hand at it.

The other gallery to make time for is the Jasper Arts Center, in the heart of downtown Jasper. The center hosts art shows through the year, running from traditional paintings to avant-garde installations. Check their schedule to see what is on display during your visit.

Native American Heritage

Jasper carries a real Native American heritage, and there are several sites in the area where you can learn about the history and culture of the Cherokee people. One of the popular ones is the Funk Heritage Center, on the campus of Reinhardt University. The center has a museum running exhibits on Cherokee history, alongside a replica of a Cherokee village.

The other place to learn about Native American heritage is the Talking Rock Nature Preserve. This 100-acre nature preserve holds several hiking trails, along with a museum showing Native American artifacts and history. You can also take guided tours and educational programs to learn more about the Cherokee people and their way of life.

Art, history or culture, Jasper covers all three. So plan a trip to this small town and work out what is actually in it.

Annual Events

Jasper, Georgia is a good place to visit year-round, but there are certain times of the year when the town properly comes alive. Here are the annual events you will not want to miss:

Georgia Marble Festival (October)

Georgia Marble Festival, Jasper, Georgia

If marble is your thing, you will want the Georgia Marble Festival. This two-day event is held every October and runs everything from marble sculpting demonstrations to a marble quarry tour. There are also food vendors, live music and plenty of activities for kids.

Georgia Apple Festival (October)

If you prefer your fruit in the form of a pie, check out the Georgia Apple Festival. This festival is also held in October and brings over 300 vendors selling everything from apple cider to apple butter. There are also live performances, a parade and a classic car show.

Georgia Mountain Fair (August)

The Georgia Mountain Fair is a week-long event that takes place every August. This fair has been running for over 60 years and holds carnival rides, live music and plenty of food vendors. There are also arts and crafts exhibits, a petting zoo and a beauty pageant.

Pickens County Fair (May)

If you want a more traditional county fair experience, check out the Pickens County Fair. This event takes place every May and holds carnival rides, livestock exhibits and plenty of fried food. There are also live performances and a beauty pageant.

Independence Day Celebration (July)

Independence Day Celebration, Jasper, Georgia

If you are in town for the 4th of July, check out Jasper’s Independence Day Celebration. This event runs a parade, live music and a fireworks display. There are also plenty of food vendors and activities for kids.

Night of Lights (December)

Jasper’s Night of Lights takes place every December and the town does it properly. The town square is turned into a winter wonderland, complete with Christmas lights, carolers and hot cocoa. There are also plenty of seasonal activities for kids, including pictures with Santa and gingerbread house decorating.

Whatever time of year you visit Jasper, something is going on. Check out these annual events and make some of the visit count.

Unusual Finds

Jasper, Georgia is known for its scenery and its outdoor activities, but there are also some unusual finds worth checking out. Here are the offbeat attractions you will not want to miss.

Fainting Goats

If you want an animal encounter you will not get elsewhere, head to Fainting Goat Vineyards and Winery. You can enjoy a glass of their smooth wines, and you can also visit their fainting goats. These goats have a genetic condition that causes their muscles to tense up and freeze briefly when they are startled. It sounds strange, but it is genuinely entertaining to watch. So grab a glass of wine and take the short walk to the goat enclosure.

Pickle Barrel House

Yes, you read that right. There is a house in Jasper shaped like a pickle barrel. Built in the 1920s, the Pickle Barrel House was originally a roadside stand for selling pickles. Today it is a tourist attraction you can visit and photograph. It is a good spot for a photo and a better conversation starter.

Marble Hill Nuclear Bunker

For a more serious historical find, visit the Marble Hill Nuclear Bunker. This underground bunker was built during the Cold War as a secret location for government officials in the event of a nuclear attack. It is now open to the public for tours, and you can see what life would have been like down there during a nuclear crisis. It is an eerie hour and it stays with you.

Jasper, Georgia may be a small town, but it is full of surprises. From fainting goats to a pickle barrel house to a nuclear bunker, the range here is genuine. So add these unusual finds to your itinerary for a trip worth talking about afterwards.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some fun activities for families in Jasper, Georgia?

Jasper, Georgia is a good place for families to spend time together. You can get outdoors at Amicalola Falls State Park, take a scenic drive on the Georgia Mountain Parkway, or go on a family-friendly hike at the Marble Hill Trail. If you are feeling adventurous, try zip-lining at the Big Canoe Zip Line or kayaking on the Cartecay River.

What are the best restaurants to try in downtown Jasper, Georgia?

If you want Southern cuisine, downtown Jasper has plenty of options. Stop by the Woodbridge Inn for classic Southern dishes such as fried chicken and biscuits, or try the Fainting Goat Vineyards and Winery for a wine tasting and small plates. For a casual lunch or dinner, head to Rocco’s Pub for burgers and beer.

What events are happening in Jasper, Georgia this weekend?

Check out the Jasper Farmers Market on Saturday mornings for fresh produce and local crafts. If you want live music, head to the Jasper Summer Concert Series on Saturday evenings in the park. And do not miss the Georgia Marble Festival in October, which runs live music, arts and crafts, and marble quarry tours.

Where are the best places to go shopping in Jasper, Georgia?

Downtown Jasper has plenty of shops and boutiques to work through. Check out Jasper Drug Store for gifts and home decor, or browse the antique shops such as Jasper Junction. And do not miss the Jasper Farmers Market for fresh produce and handmade crafts.

What makes Jasper, Georgia a unique destination?

Jasper, Georgia stands apart because of its small town character and the landscape around it. You can get outdoors at Amicalola Falls State Park or the Chattahoochee National Forest, or work through the local wineries and restaurants in downtown Jasper. The town is also home to the historic Tate House, a mansion built in the 1920s.

How far is Jasper, Georgia from Atlanta and is it worth the trip?

Jasper, Georgia sits a short drive north of Atlanta, and the drive is worth making. You get out of the city and into the North Georgia Mountains, which is the point. Jasper also has plenty of shops, restaurants and outdoor activities to fill the time.

Frequently asked questions about Jasper, Georgia

Which Jasper festival is worth planning the trip around?

The Georgia Marble Festival, which runs across a weekend every October and includes a quarry tour alongside the marble sculpting demonstrations. The Georgia Apple Festival lands the same month with over 300 vendors, a parade and a classic car show. The Georgia Mountain Fair takes a week in August. Book the room early.

Which Jasper park or trail suits a family walk?

Amicalola Falls State Park, for the waterfall and a run of trails that take beginners as readily as they take seasoned hikers. The Marble Hill Trail is the gentler option and works with children along. Talking Rock Nature Preserve covers 100 acres and has a museum attached to it. The Chattahoochee National Forest is the serious version.

Which Jasper museum or oddity should you not miss?

The Old Pickens County Jail, built in 1906 and used as the county jail until 1982, which now runs as a museum with the cells and the gallows still in place. The Pickle Barrel House is the one people photograph. The Marble Hill Nuclear Bunker was dug for the Cold War and is open for tours. Fainting Goat Vineyards has the goats.

Keep exploring Jasper, Georgia