Thanksgiving Dining with a View — Where to Eat in Towns County, Georgia
There’s a moment every year when the mountains seem to slow down.
The air turns crisp. The smell of campfires drifts across Lake Chatuge. Leaves that were bright green in August suddenly glow orange and red. And just like that, the North Georgia mountains ease into one of the most beautiful seasons of the year: cozy cabin season.
If your idea of a perfect Thanksgiving (or fall getaway) involves mountain views, warm fireplaces, and time spent with the people you love, Towns County is exactly the place to be.
Thanksgiving Dinner With a Side of Mountain Views
Brasstown Valley Resort & Spa – Young Harris
Every year, families make their way up the winding entrance of Brasstown Valley Resort for their annual Thanksgiving buffet. It’s become a tradition here, the kind of thing grandparents talk about in July and kids remember long after the holiday ends.
The meal changes slightly each year, but you can count on carved meats, seasonal sides, fresh salads, and desserts that look like they were pulled straight from a magazine spread. Reservations are required (and they really do fill early), but the experience is more than just dinner. The dining room overlooks rolling mountain ridges, and the lodge-style interior feels instantly relaxing.
While you’re there, check the schedule for the resort’s holiday tree lighting later that weekend. It’s one of those small-town moments that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into the opening scene of a holiday movie.
The Oaks Lakeside Kitchen – The Ridges Resort on Lake Chatuge
If you prefer lakeside dining, The Oaks is the kind of place where time slows down. Large windows overlook the water, and as the sun sets, the whole lake reflects the mountains in shades of amber and deep red.
The Oaks typically releases a special Thanksgiving menu each year. It’s elegant without being stuffy, exactly what you want for a holiday meal you didn’t have to cook.
Lakeview Tavern – Hiawassee
Warm atmosphere. Lakefront views. A menu built around fresh, local ingredients. Thanksgiving hours vary, so make sure to call ahead if you’re planning to dine during the holiday week.
Local Favorites for a Laid-Back Thanksgiving
Sometimes Thanksgiving means ditching the formal dining room and going where the locals go.
Known for smoked turkey and Southern sides. In previous years, they offered take-home Thanksgiving options. Make sure you preorder early!
Casual and reliable, the kind of place where you instantly feel like a regular.
If your family votes that BBQ absolutely counts as Thanksgiving, this is your stop.
Quick tip: Thanksgiving dining is extremely popular here, whether you’re dining in or ordering takeout, call ahead and reserve early.
Walk Off the Pie: Thanksgiving Weekend Outdoor Traditions
The best part of spending Thanksgiving in the mountains? Walking out the front door and immediately being surrounded by nature.
Brasstown Bald
Georgia’s highest point (4,784 feet). The trail to the observation deck is short but steep, or you can take the shuttle if it’s running. The view at the top is worth every step; On clear days, you can see four states.
High Shoals Falls
A forest hike that leads to several cascading waterfalls and wooden bridges tucked beneath towering hardwoods. The trail feels like stepping into a postcard, especially with leaves on the ground.
Lake Chatuge
Rent a boat, take a lakeside walk, or simply sit on the dock with a warm drink and watch the water settle into stillness. Even in late fall, the lake feels peaceful and calming.
Appalachian Trail Access
Towns County is an official Appalachian Trail Community, and it shows. Whether you hike one mile or five, the trail has a way of helping you reset.
Kick Off the Holidays
Thanksgiving weekend marks the unofficial start of the holiday season in Towns County, and it arrives with sparkle.
Mountain Country Christmas in Lights
Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds – Hiawassee
Every year, the fairgrounds transform into a lakeside winter wonderland filled with lights, music, treats, and a little bit of childlike wonder. Take your time strolling through, it’s the perfect ending to Thanksgiving Day.
Holiday Tree Lighting at Brasstown Valley Resort
Hot drinks, festive music, and the glow of holiday lights, a simple moment that brings everyone together after the meal has settled.
Shop Local, Shop Cozy
Thanksgiving weekend is a great time to browse local boutiques and artisan markets. You’ll find:
- handmade pottery
- locally made jams and honey
- unique gifts you can’t get in a big-box store
Shopping here feels personal, like meeting the person who actually crafted your gift.
Why Thanksgiving Feels Different Here
Maybe it’s the way the lake mirrors the mountains at sunrise. Or how the trails are so quiet you can hear leaves falling. Or that moment when everyone finally puts down their phones and just becomes present, talking, laughing, sitting a little longer at the table than usual. Whatever the reason, Thanksgiving in Towns County has a way of grounding you. It reminds you of what you’re thankful for. It slows you down long enough to notice it.
Ready to plan your cozy cabin getaway?
Book lodging and restaurant reservations early. Thanksgiving week is a well-loved secret that’s not staying secret for long. We’ll save you a spot by the fire.