Travel Budget for Blue Ridge Visit Blue Ridge on a Budget or Travel in Style

Blue Ridge, Georgia, United States of America

Blue Ridge is an outdoorsy town known for its beautiful mountain setting, miles of hiking trails, and small town atmosphere. In this travel cost guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to plan your travel budget and have an amazing trip without spending too much. This guide includes average trip costs from previous travelers, typical hotel prices, food and dining costs, entertainment and sightseeing prices, and information about transportation. So, whether you're eating the delicious cuisine or hiking in nature, you'll be able to plan your perfect trip to Blue Ridge, all while staying within budget.

How much does it cost to travel to Blue Ridge?

You should plan to spend around $150 per day on your vacation in Blue Ridge. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.

Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:

  • $61 on meals
  • $34 on local transportation
  • $135 on hotels

A one week trip to Blue Ridge for two people costs, on average, $2,100. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.

  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    $150
  • One Week Per person
    $1,050
  • 2 Weeks Per person
    $2,100
  • One Month Per person
    $4,500
  • One Week For a couple
    $2,100
  • 2 Weeks For a couple
    $4,200
  • One Month For a couple
    $9,000
This data comes from the travel budgets of real travelers - How it works. Put these numbers on your website.


How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Blue Ridge cost?

A one week trip to Blue Ridge usually costs around $1,050 for one person and $2,100 for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

A two week trip to Blue Ridge on average costs around $2,100 for one person and $4,200 for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Blue Ridge will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.

A one month trip to Blue Ridge on average costs around $4,500 for one person and $9,000 for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.




Is Blue Ridge expensive to visit?

Blue Ridge is a smaller destination that charms visitors with a variety of travel styles, expenditure habits, and budgetary considerations. Accommodation options range from budget-friendly hostels to mid-range hotels to high-end luxury properties.

Blue Ridge can become quite costly if you let it, but there are ways to save money, such as eating at less expensive restaurants and enjoying the free hiking trails.

On average, budget travelers spend $66 per day, mid-range travelers spend $150 per day, and luxury travelers spend around $287 per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Blue Ridge.

Within North America, which is known to be an expensive region, Blue Ridge is a reasonably affordable destination compared to other places. It is in the top 25% of cities in North America for its affordability. You can find more affordable cities such as Hope, but there are also more expensive cities, such as Key West.

For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Blue Ridge Expensive?

How much money do I need for a trip to Blue Ridge?

The average Blue Ridge trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Blue Ridge travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Blue Ridge cost?

Blue Ridge on a Budget
Category Budget Mid-Range Luxury
Accommodation 1
For 1 person in double occupancy
$30 $67 $129
Local Transportation 1 $15 $34 $66
Food 2 $27 $61 $117
Entertainment 1 $7.66 $18 $33
Alcohol 2 $4-13 $10-30 $19-57

Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget

Setting realistic expectations for your travel budget is important. While some think they can visit Blue Ridge with minimal expenses, most people don't enjoy traveling that frugally. Consider what you prioritize on vacation. Do you prefer luxury hotels or budget stays? Hostels or hotels or vacation rentals? Are fun activities and dining out important to you? Your overall budget will depend on all of these questions.

What is a budget traveler, anyway?

You might consider yourself a budget traveler, but if you're not ready to give up some comforts, prepare to spend a lot more than the $66 per day that younger budget travelers manage.

Backpackers will usually stick to this shoestring budget by staying in hostel dorms, dining at the cheapest spots such as fast food places, using public transit, and mostly visiting free attractions.

Food is a key highlight for everyone who visits Blue Ridge, but budget travelers often stick to street food or cook in their hostel, which means they might not fully appreciate the local culinary offerings.

Are You Considered an Average Traveler?

If you're traveling for leisure as a couple or family, you'll probably prefer a mid-range hotel, dine at well-known restaurants, and explore the major museums and attractions that charge entry fees. Most travelers to Blue Ridge will be eager to explore the key attractions, museums, sights, and landmarks. Remember, most activities come with a cost. Therefore, it's reasonable to anticipate that your daily budget will be around $150 per person, per day.

Want to Experience a Luxurious Trip?

If you're looking for a higher-end vacation filled with high-end amenities and exceptional service, plan for a daily expense of approximately $287. Staying at nicer hotels, savoring meals at top-rated restaurants, splurging on lavish outings, and utilizing taxis or private drivers in the town means you'll need a more luxurious budget.

Accommodation Budget in Blue Ridge

Hotel prices in Blue Ridge can vary significantly. Some hotels charge much higher rates but also offer more luxury and better amenities. During peak season, these prices rise even more. In the off-season, the average room costs around $226, while in peak winter season it jumps to an average of $422. Budget accommodations range from $113 to $774, but hostels are usually cheaper, especially in dorm rooms. Save money by traveling during the low or shoulder seasons, or by booking in advance and watching for deals.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

The average price paid in Blue Ridge for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $135. For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $67 per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.

  • Accommodation1 Hotel or hostel for one person
    $67
  • Accommodation1 Typical double-occupancy room
    $135

Hotels in Blue Ridge

Looking for a hotel in Blue Ridge? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.

Find the best hotel for your travel style.

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world.



Actual Hotel Prices in Blue Ridge

The average hotel room price in Blue Ridge based on data provided by Kayak for actual hotel rooms is $226 in the low season and $422 in the peak season. Below are the average prices for each budget category. (Prices in U.S. Dollars, before taxes & fees.)

The most affordable highest rated hotels in Blue Ridge include:

  • Comfort Inn & Suites Blue Ridge starting at $148
Tips to Save Money on Accommodation in Blue Ridge

In a family-friendly place like Blue Ridge, finding accommodation with more space is key when traveling with children.

Many people spend up to a week in Blue Ridge. If you're here for an extended time, a vacation rental with a kitchen could be helpful for preparing your own meals.

If you plan to avoid winter and visit during the low or shoulder season, you'll find cheaper accommodation rates and fewer tourists.

Because Blue Ridge is such a small town, there might not be a lot of hotel choices, so it's good to stay open-minded about your options.


Recommended Properties


Transportation Budget in Blue Ridge

The public transit system in Blue Ridge is not very good. There's no real public transportation system in the area.

Blue Ridge has walkable areas that can facilitate your exploration of various attractions. While the downtown area is relatively walkable, if you want to hike and get out in nature, you'll need to have a car.

Public Transit:  starstarstarstarstar (poor)
Walkability:      starstarstarstarstar (good)

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • On average, past travelers have spent $34 per person, per day, on local transportation in Blue Ridge. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Blue Ridge is significantly more than public transportation.

  • Transportation1 Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    $34

Transportation Tips

If you're planning to drive, ensure that your hotel offers convenient parking.



Flights to Blue Ridge
How much does it cost to go to Blue Ridge? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.

Rental Cars in Blue Ridge
The price of renting a car in Blue Ridge will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.



Food Budget in Blue Ridge

Food in Blue Ridge is outstanding, and it's essential to make time to indulge in all the unique local flavors. You'll find plenty of small town restaurants serving local dishes like barbecue, trout, and biscuits with gravy. Southern food is popular, but you'll also find plenty of breweries and wineries in the area. Head downtown for an assortment of options that include southern, vegan, and even international flavors.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • While restaurant and meal prices in Blue Ridge can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Blue Ridge is $61 per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.

  • Food2 Meals for one day
    $61

When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Blue Ridge is around $61 ($61) per person, with previous travelers spending from $27 to $117. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.

Typical meal prices in Blue Ridge are as follows:

  • Breakfast: $6 to $18
  • Lunch: $9 to $24
  • Dinner: $18 to $43
  • Coffee: $5
  • Fast Food or Street Food: $9

In the state of Georgia, and in most of the southern United States, barbeque is a favorite pastime. All types of meat are prepared grilled and smothered in thick sauce, but pork is traditionally the most common in the state. If you find yourself in Blue Ridge and are looking to grab a quick plate of the savory stuff, look no further than Mike's Track Side BBQ. Everything is fresh, fast, and flooded smoky flavors. Other popular BBQ restaurants include The Pink Pig BBQ, Joe's Barbeque, and Blue Ridge Mountain BBQ, each just as satisfying as the next with all of the sides, fixins, and mouth-watering aromas. If you seek a nicer, sit-down meal, a few choice options include places like Harvest on Main, Southern Charm, Blue Ridge Brewery, and The Black Sheep. And as far as dessert goes, the Sweet Shoppe remains the go-to with gourmet cupcakes, truffles, cake pops, and more.

Food & Dining Tips

If you're on a trip with your kids, find restaurants that offer a kids' menu. This can really help you save money since those options are typically much more affordable. Some places might not show the kids' meals on their menu, so be sure to check with your waiter first.

Several hotels include breakfast with your stay, while others charge separately for it. The cost and quality can vary significantly depending on the hotel. Knowing this in advance can guide your budget decisions. It could be worth it for the tasty buffet available at the hotel, or you may wish to find a cheaper option at a local bakery or cafe.

Bring a water bottle instead of buying beverages everywhere. It helps the environment, too.

If you're considering a tour, double-check which meals are included in the package. There may be instances where you'll have to pay for your own meals, potentially stretching your budget.



Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Blue Ridge

Visitors find Blue Ridge irresistible, especially for its food, hiking, family-friendly activities, and romance.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Blue Ridge typically cost an average of $18 per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.

  • Entertainment1 Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    $18

In Blue Ridge, Georgia the main attractions are the mountains. The town is well within the vicinity of the Chattahoochee National Forest, which makes for acres upon acres of unspoiled mountain woodland beauty. The Blue Ridge Lake and the Toccoa River also make for good examples of the region's natural assets. From the mountaintops you can look over sweeping valleys and follow pristine ridges. One of the best ways to see the sights perhaps is to take a ride along the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway. Passengers have the options for vintage climate control or open air cars that take a 26 mile journey, winding along the scenic Toccoa River for a 2-hour layover to enjoy the quaint sister towns of McCaysville, Georgia and Copperhill, Tennessee. The entire journey takes about 4 hours-one hour there, one back, and two in between to enjoy the sights of the McCaysville/Copperhill area.

While the natural features surrounding Blue Ridge do steal the show, Blue Ridge itself is a charming town lined with historic buildings, shops, galleries, restaurants, and places to stay. On the outskirts you might come across one of the county's many orchards, vineyards, or riding stables. Mercier Orchards is one of the more popular destinations, featuring fresh fruit every day, baked goods, homegrown products, wine tastings, and a full calendar of events.



Most people come to Blue Ridge as a home base for all of the outdoor activities that the mountain landscape has to offer. Hiking, backpacking, camping, and horseback riding are popular along many of the mountain trails, while activities like kayaking, tubing, and whitewater rafting are choice options along the Toccoa River. With the Blue Ridge Lake nearby as well, this too, has become a well-traveled spot for trout fishing, pontoon renting, and many other water sports.

Aside from the unbeatable outdoor adventures, Blue Ridge has much to offer in shopping and entertainment, with plenty of downtown shops, a live theater, as well as a drive-in movie theater. And if that isn't enough, the region is full of local breweries and wineries worth a visit. Some of which include Grumpy Old Men Brewing, Fannin Brewing Company, Mercier Orchards, Habersham Winery and Vineyard, Serenberry Vineyard, and Crane Creek Vineyards, amongst others.

Sightseeing Tips

Hiking:
The hiking trails near Blue Ridge are amazing. There are miles of hiking trails in the area that take you to waterfalls and viewpoints. The starting point of the Appalachian Trail is also nearby, and another popular trail is the Benton MacKaye Trail. Options range from beginner to expert with everything in between.

Shopping:
Don't pass up the chance to shop here, as it's fun and enjoyable. You'll find artisan shops, art galleries, and boutique clothing vendors. Many places are concentrated in the charming downtown area, which is fun to explore for a day or two.

Local tours that last a few hours can be a great way to explore Blue Ridge. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:

  • 2 Hour Culture Tour in Helen for $29 details
  • 2-Hour Helen Haunts and History Walk Tour for $29 details
  • Helen Ghosts, Voodoo & Haunted Trails Tour for $25 details

Recommended Activities


Nightlife Budget in Blue Ridge

If you're looking for nightlife, Blue Ridge has some options, but it's less active than in other more popular locales. Head downtown for a mix of breweries, bars, and clubs where you'll find live music and a casual meal.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • The average person spends about $20 on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Blue Ridge per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.

  • Alcohol2 Drinks for one day
    $20
Nightlife Tips

Enjoying the nightlife is always a highlight, but cutting back on drinks can really help you save money on your travels.

Nighttime outings can be fun, but make sure to stay aware of your environment, especially if you've been drinking. Pickpockets or worse could take advantage, so stick to trusted company.



Budgeting and Travel Tips for Blue Ridge

  • In winter, you'll find prices climbing and the town brimming with visitors. For a more affordable and peaceful experience, try to plan your visit during the shoulder or low seasons.
  • Enjoying a more leisurely travel pace can not only enhance your experience but also save you money as you soak in the area's beauty. If you rush through every day packed with activities, your spending will add up. On the flip side, a slower pace often means a lighter budget.

Budgeting Challenges

  • Blue Ridge doesn't have many public transport options available. You may want to consider renting a car or setting up transportation ahead of time, like booking a tour. Just be aware that this might affect your budget elsewhere.
  • Blue Ridge isn't exactly teeming with hostels, so if you were hoping to find a low-cost dorm, you might want to rethink that. Finding a budget hotel or renting an apartment could be your best bet.
Traveling in Blue Ridge
Blue Ridge Blue Ridge, Georgia

Blue Ridge is a resort town, located in the northern part of Georgia in the vicinity of the Blue Ridge Mountain region of the Appalachian Mountain chain. It is a popular destination for outdoor adventures like hiking, backpacking, horseback riding, and even whitewater rafting. Whether you wish to stay in a cozy cabin or luxury resort, the environment is one enveloped by the natural beauty of mountain scenery.



Neighborhoods & Around

Downtown Blue Ridge is the hub of the area, hugging Main Street and dotted with endless options for shopping and dining. Store fronts are many and varied, showcasing items for home decor, furniture, clothing, jewelry, shoes and leather supply, candles, soaps, outdoor apparel, and many other specialty goods. There are also opportunities for antique shopping as well as a handful of art galleries. High County Art & Antiques, for example, has a mix of both-located in the heart of the downtown and housing a selection of traditional and impressionist fine art, folk art, photography, ceramics, pottery, jewelry, sculptures, antiques, and collectibles. As far as entertainment goes, the Blue Ridge Community Theater on East 1st Street has a full calendar featuring events like unique plays, dramas, comedies, musical productions, and concerts. The Swan Drive-In Theater, located on the outskirts of town on Summit Street, is another fun way to enjoy an evening out the good ‘ole fashioned way.

We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.



1 Categories averaged on a per-item basis.
2 Categories averaged on a per-day basis.
For example, the Food2 daily average is for all meals for an entire day, while Entertainment1 is for each individual purchase. Thus, the overall daily average cost is not a summation of the individual categories.