Dahlonega, Georgia embraces its nickname, “Georgia’s Best Small Town,” and with good reason. Imbued with a rich heritage and an amazing mountain setting, Dahlonega is not only beautiful, it also offers an array of possibilities for residents and visitors alike. Dahlonega, located sixty-five miles north of Atlanta in the Blue Ridge foothills, invites everyone to enjoy a variety of attractions, activities, and adventure opportunities. Here are five fun things to do in Dahlonega, Georgia.
Explore the Historic Square
Dahlonega’s historic downtown square resembles a scene straight out of a movie. Stroll the cobblestone sidewalks, where you’ll find quaint shops filled with antiques and unique collectibles. It’s a great place to hunt for hidden treasures and soak in the town’s rich history.
My friends and I were in Dahlonega as part of our girls’ getaway weekend. After parking the car, we set out to explore the historic downtown on foot. Popping in and out of the many cozy boutiques and antique shops was a particular highlight. We even turned it into a little game: each of us had a $15 spending limit to find the perfect item for a gift exchange later. This friendly challenge made our time touring the square even more enjoyable.
Indulge in Local Cuisine
Treat yourself to delicious Southern fare at one of Dahlonega’s local restaurants. From cozy cafes to upscale dining, BBQ, and delightful desserts, you can enjoy dishes crafted with fresh, local ingredients that showcase the region’s culinary heritage. The historic district offers choices that are certain to please any palate. Plan your trip to include one or more of these popular restaurants, you won’t be disappointed.
Discover Gold Rush History
“There’s gold in them thar hills!”
Yes! The saying originated in Dahlonega, Georgia, when it was shouted from the balcony of the old Lumpkin County Courthouse, which now houses the Dahlonega Gold Museum.
Learn about Dahlonega’s gold rush heritage at the Dahlonega Gold Museum, housed in the historic courthouse. Exhibits showcase the area’s fascinating history, including artifacts from the 1828-29 gold rush that put the town on the map.
To immerse yourself in a golden experience, recreational gold panning in most stream beds in Dahlonega is allowed if you’re only using a shovel and a pan. There are also places such as Crisson Gold Mine and Consolidated Gold Mine that offer panning and mine tours that make great itinerary items, especially for young or young at heart travelers.
Hike the Trails
Dahlonega, Georgia boasts limitless outdoor adventure opportunities. With its setting in the foothills of the Blue Ridge mountains, in addition to camping, mountain biking, and canoeing along the Chattahoochee River, the hiking trails are mere footsteps away from downtown.
For nature lovers, the nearby trails in the Chattahoochee National Forest offer stunning views and opportunities for hiking. Enjoy a leisurely walk or a more challenging hike while taking in the beautiful landscapes that surround Dahlonega. There are black bears in the mountains so keep that in mind as you venture into the woods.
Dahlonega boasts a number of hotels and resorts as well as cozy inns and bed and breakfasts. Visitors can find accommodations that suit their needs and enjoy all the region has to offer. Additionally, the town hosts special events throughout the year, including the October celebration of Gold Rush Days. As they like to say, "Adventure is Always in Season."
Visit Local Wineries
Dahlonega is located in Georgia’s wine country, home to the renowned Dahlonega Wine Trail. This picturesque trail, dotting the surrounding mountains, features 12 tasting rooms and 8 wineries. Spending an afternoon touring wineries, tasting a variety of local wines, and enjoying scenic vineyard views is a delightful way to experience and enjoy the North Georgia mountains.
From smaller tasting rooms to expansive wineries with restaurants and event spaces, you’ll find a variety of wineries in this prime grape-growing region, often referred to as the “Napa Valley of the South,” all showcasing local wines. Many of the wineries offer wine tastings, light bites, and live music, making for an enjoyable outing.
For our girls’ weekend, we took in the views and sampled delicious wine at Montaluce Winery & Restaurant, just ten minutes from downtown. The winery, designed to resemble a Tuscan villa, sits high on a hill overlooking the vineyards and delivering spectacular vistas.
We said cheers with a tasty Tramonto rosé. Tramonto is Italian for ‘sunset,’ and the name is befitting the beverage, which matches the golden hues of a north Georgia sunset.
On a side note, be sure to check that your wine tasting doesn’t overlap with any scheduled events at the winery you choose. Call ahead if possible and check on hours as well as tasting opportunities.
More Fun Things to Do in Dahlonega, Georgia
These are just five of the many exciting activities in Dahlonega, Georgia, and there’s so much more to explore.
I strongly recommend starting your visit at the Visitors Center, where you can discover all the fantastic attractions, tours, arts and cultural events, and seasonal activities happening in this vibrant town. You can also grab a walking map and a Discovery Guide to assist you as you navigate this golden gem nestled in Georgia’s scenic mountains.
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