Autumn Adventures at Lake Oconee: Top Things to Do This Fall

September 11, 2024

As the crisp autumn air settles over Lake Oconee, there’s no better time to explore all the fall activities this beautiful area has to offer. Start your adventure in charming Downtown Greensboro, where historic sites like the Old Gaol await discovery. Take in the tastes and sounds of the Rhythm and Brews Festival, celebrating music and craft beer. For a unique fall experience, enjoy the vibrant foliage by boat as you cruise the lake, or catch the big game while relaxing lakeside at Gaby’s. Oconee Brewing Company offers the perfect spot to sip seasonal brews, while nearby golf courses provide stunning views of fall colors as you play a round. End your day at The Ritz-Carlton, where you can roast s’mores by the fire, wrapping up your perfect autumn day at Lake Oconee.

Downtown Greensboro

Spend a perfect fall day strolling the charming streets of Downtown Greensboro. Begin with a warm caramel latte and a delicious apple turnover from Bonnie’s Coffee Shop, the ideal start to a crisp autumn morning. Explore the many antique shops, where unique treasures and vintage finds await. For a touch of spooky history, make sure to visit the Old Gaol, one of the town’s most intriguing landmarks. Outside, a solar box shares fascinating stories of Greensboro’s rich past, and for a closer look, you can check out the keys to tour the inside of the Gaol from Genuine Georgia.

If you’re in town on October 26th, be sure to check out the 2nd Annual Fall Festival. There will be free activities, games, snacks, and a fall photo booth! You’ll even get to meet your favorite characters from the Wizard of Oz.

Ripe Thing Market 

No fall trip is complete without picking out the perfect pumpkin to take home, and at Ripe Thing Market, you’ll find a beautiful selection of gorgeous gourds ready for the season. But that’s not all—Ripe Thing Market also offers a bounty of fresh fall produce. From crisp apples perfect for baking pies to seasonal vegetables like squash and sweet potatoes, this local market is a haven for anyone looking to embrace the flavors of autumn!

Rhythm and Brews 

Join the Oconee Performing Arts Society and Reynolds Lake Oconee on Friday, October 25th, 2024, for the 7th Annual Rhythm & Brews Festival at the stunning Sandy Creek Barn Amphitheatre. Enjoy an unforgettable evening of live music featuring legendary Southern rock band 38 Special. Sip and savor your way through a beer and wine garden offering selections from dozens of craft breweries and wineries, making it a perfect fall night of great tunes, drinks, and fun.

 

 

Leaf Peeping 

There’s no better way to experience the vibrant colors of fall than from the serene waters of Lake Oconee. As the leaves transform into a stunning tapestry of reds, oranges, and yellows, the lake offers the perfect vantage point for leaf-peeping by boat. Glide across the calm waters while surrounded by the beautiful reflections of autumn foliage, giving you a front-row seat to nature’s seasonal show. Whether you’re steering your own boat or enjoying a guided cruise from Young Harris Watersports, the crisp fall air and breathtaking views make this an unforgettable experience. For photographers and nature lovers alike, it’s the ultimate way to capture the beauty of fall in Georgia.

Football Watching at Gaby’s by the Lake 

Watching football at Gaby’s by the Lake is the ultimate way to enjoy game day in style. With large outdoor TVs set against the backdrop of Lake Oconee, you can cheer on your favorite team while taking in the stunning lakeside views. The cool fall breeze and laid-back atmosphere make it the perfect spot to relax with friends and family. Enjoy delicious bites from the menu, like their famous wings or fresh seafood, paired with an ice-cold drink as you catch all the action. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just there for the good vibes, Gaby’s offers an unbeatable combination of sports and scenery.

Oconee Brewing Company 

Oconee Brewing Company is the perfect destination to enjoy fall-inspired craft beers in Greene County. As the weather cools and leaves turn, the brewery rolls out seasonal favorites that capture the essence of autumn. Whether you’re sipping a spiced ale or a smooth Oktoberfest lager, each brew offers a unique flavor that pairs perfectly with the season. Grab a pint, take a seat inside or on the outdoor patio, and savor the taste of fall with every sip at Oconee Brewing Company.

While there, don’t forget to indulge in a smash burger and fries from The Burch food truck. Conveniently located on site.

Golf at Reynolds Lake Oconee 

Golf enthusiasts will find paradise at Reynolds Lake Oconee, a world-renowned golf destination. The fall season offers perfect weather for hitting the links, and you can choose from several championship golf courses designed by legendary architects such as Jack Nicklaus and Tom Fazio. With stunning lake views and lush fairways surrounded by autumn foliage, playing a round of golf here is an unforgettable experience.

Guests of the The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee resort have their choice of five golf courses —that offer enjoyable play for all ability levels.

Roasting S’mores at The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee 

Guests at The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee can cap off a perfect fall day by gathering around a lakeside bonfire to roast s’mores—a beloved resort tradition. As the fire crackles and the soft glow of the flames reflects off the lake, guests toast marshmallows and indulge in this classic treat, adding a sweet and nostalgic touch to their evening. Weather permitting, from 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., visitors can meet just outside Amore del Lago to enjoy this relaxing nightly ritual, surrounded by the peaceful beauty of the lakeside setting.