10 Things to Do in Clayton, Georgia

Calm but not too quiet. Not too far, but just far enough from the buzz of your city—that’s Clayton for you. Easily accessible and probably just a quick road trip away; not many places balance nature and urban life quite as well as Clayton.

Let our rundown of Clayton’s best things to do convince you why it’s the perfect spot for your next weekend adventure. So, when you are planning your escapade from the daily grind, make sure you add these pit stops to your itinerary.

Raft with Southeastern Expeditions

First things first, Clayton is home to one of America’s wildest rivers, and it would be a shame to miss out on it. Tucked away in the wild is the Chattooga River, a haven for adventure, and this is the perfect chance to experience it up close. All you have to do is book a Chattooga River rafting package with Southeastern Expeditions, which happens to be one of the oldest rafting companies on the Chattooga River. 

From beginner-friendly trips to overnight adventures, you can explore this river at a pace that fits you the best. Oh, and if you want to learn how to kayak, Southeastern Expeditions offers one-on-one kayak clinics, too! Over 650 people have already shared their experience with these rafting outfitters on Tripadvisor. So, book your raft and paddles and head to the river as soon as possible—it’s waiting for you.

Tallulah Gorge

If rafting down the Chattooga has left the taste of adventure in your mouth, you can drive a little further to Tallulah Gorge for spectacular views and a 2-mile hike that will take your breath away in the best way! Loved by over 1000 people on Tripadvisor, this spot is making quite a buzz.

Just the view of the six waterfalls makes the 14-minute drive from Clayton worth the time, but the 300 stairs down to the suspension bridge grab hikers’ attention. If you can handle the workout, you should definitely not miss it. 

North Georgia Wildlife Park

If you’ve been little more than just trees and rivers, get ready for a wild adventure an hour away from Clayton. North Georgia Wildlife Park is home to over 400 animals, including rare breeds and miniatures like pigs, cows, and water buffalo. And it is so much more than just a zoo. 

Enjoy hands-on fun by feeding and petting farm favorites, or take a guided Wildlife Walk to meet exotic animals up close. With interactive experiences such as animal shows, camel encounters, and behind-the-scenes tours, you’ll get to hold and feed baby animals like wallabies and penguins. Almost 1000 people have shared their experiences on Tripadvisor, and there is no doubt that this park is a must-see for animal lovers of all ages!

Fortify PI

With so many more things to do in Clayton, you’ll need to fuel up your energy. It is safe to say that a slice of pizza is a universal pick-me-up. With an extensive menu that includes vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, everything on their menu is good. Oh, and you don’t have to search far and beyond. Fortify PI is just a 10-minute drive away from our outpost.

Don’t sleep on their other menu items, like fries, wings, and salads; the Greek salad is a fan favorite. You can even sit at the bar, which serves up the best drinks. The friendly staff and comfortable atmosphere are inviting and promise a great time.

U-Joint

If a slice isn’t enough and you’ve been craving a hearty meal, head straight to Universal Joint. Again, this spot is a 10-minute drive away too! With almost 900 reviews on Tripadvisor, U-Joint proves it is quite worth the hype.

They have a lineup of unique burgers, wings, and more, all made fresh in-house, which makes for a well-thought-out menu. They offer a full bar with 16 draft beers, including craft and domestic options. Load up on protein and carbs because we’re not done yet—we still have a bunch of stops to go.

Blue Ridge Scenic Railway

Looking for a family adventure that combines charm, history, and scenic beauty? Just an hour away is the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway (BRSR), which offers an unforgettable journey through the Blue Ridge Mountains. Hop aboard from the historic 1905 depot on a 26-mile round trip that takes you through the lively Chattahoochee National Forest along the serene Toccoa River.

Choose between a vintage, climate-controlled rail car or an open-air experience to take in the fresh mountain air. The train ride isn’t the end of this trip! You’ll be dropped off in the sister towns of McCaysville and Copperhill, where you’ll have two hours to explore, shop, grab a bite, and much more. 1400+ visitors have already shared their experience on Tripadvisor. Ready to share yours?

Minnehaha Falls

After all of those calories, it is time to put a bit of that energy into a sweet and short hike up to the Minnehaha Falls. Considered Clayton’s hidden gem, this offbeat location includes a few stairs and easy trails that lead to a view worth the 30-minute hike. 

The best part? Since this location is stowed away from touristy locations, you won’t have to worry about a huge crowd disrupting your fear. Just hop on a short 30-minute drive from our outpost, and you’ll be at the starting point of your hike. Enjoy the views, take a few Instagram-worthy pictures, and play to your heart’s fill in the cool water. 

Mountain Creek Lodge and Farm

Expect to want to stay an extra day once you come down to Clayton—one day will just feel enough to explore all of it. If you are looking for a place to crash, this luxury log cabin screams comfort. As part of a 25-acre farm nestled on a private mountainside, it is just a short distance from beautiful lakes that will light up your morning walks.

Loved by over 5500 visitors on TripAdvisor, Mountain Creek Lodge Farm is one of the best places to stay in Clayton. Their hammock swings from porch beams, offering a wide view of the Great Smoky Mountains that looks straight out of a movie. With all the amenities you need for a comfortable stay and raving reviews from its regulars, you are guaranteed luxury even on a short weekend stay.

Tiger Mountain Vineyards

If beer isn’t your thing and you are looking for a more elegant option, Tiger Mountain Vineyards is perfect for you. At 2,000 feet in the breathtaking North Georgia Mountains, this boutique winery crafts fine wines from hand-harvested, estate-grown grapes. Don’t worry, you won’t have to drive for ages. This spot is just 13 minutes from our outpost.

Whether you’re savoring a glass of their signature Cabernet Franc or enjoying a delicious meal overlooking the vineyard, every visit is memorable. Visitors on TripAdvisor keep complimenting the welcoming staff, scenic views, and exceptional wines which makes Tiger Mountain a must-visit destination before you go back home.

Jaemor Farms

Before you go back home, why not take a part of Clayton’s old-school lifestyle and organic delicacies. Visit Jaemor Farms, a family-owned produce farm and market known for its fresh, locally grown fruits and vegetables. Whether you’re picking up some of the best peaches around or exploring their seasonal corn maze, Jaemor Farms is a perfect destination for family fun.

From date nights on the farm to canning classes and school field trips, there’s something for everyone. Don’t forget to stop by their market for lunch—their BBQ sandwich and Jaemor Special are crowd favorites! Just hop onto a short 1-hour drive and take home something that’ll keep Clayton in your heart for ages.

Clayton is Expecting You.

If you’ve been craving a break, this is your sign to take it. Fill up your tank, pack a bag, and head to Clayton. Whether you’re with a group or going solo, it welcomes everyone with high spirits. There’s something in the air that lifts you as soon as you drive into the city. Don’t wait or plan a vacation that never happens—make it happen now. Gather your friends, plan out your itinerary, and don’t forget to book your rafting trip with Southeastern Expeditions. See you soon!