The Blue Ridge Mountains of Georgia area are perfect for getting away from the busy city life of Atlanta and getting out into the beauty of nature. One of the most unique and fun-filled towns up here is Dahlonega, which is packed with history, culture, and some amazing food. These are our favorite ways to spend a day in town!
Explore the Dahlonega Gold Museum
Dahlonega was settled during the Georgia Gold Rush two decades before the more famous Gold Rush in California. Today, you can visit the Dahlonega Gold Museum to see rare coins, gold nuggets, and equipment used to mine for gold. The admission cost is $7 per adult and $4.50 per youth ages six to 17. You can bring your leashed dog on the historic site trails here, but just not into the buildings.
See a Nearby Waterfall
It always surprises first-time visitors to North Georgia that there are mountains and waterfalls here. The closest waterfall to town is Cane Creek Falls, which is on the site of the Camp Glisson Retreat Center. As long as no retreat is in progress, it’s open to the public and free to check out.
Do a Tasting at a Local Winery
Dahlonega is also known for its wine country and many vineyards and wineries that you can visit. Popular wineries to check out here are Wolf Mountain Vineyards, Cavender Creek Vineyards and Montaluce Winery & Restaurant. Depending on how much time you have in your day, you can head out to the countryside to tour vineyard properties or conveniently stop by the downtown tasting rooms.
Watch a Show at the Holly Theater
Before your trip to Dahlonega, check the Holly Theater website to see if a performance is going on when you’ll be in town. This is a historic, nonprofit theater that performs shows like The Addams Family and Elf the Musical Jr. No seat is more than 20 feet from all the action on stage, which provides an intimate evening out on the town.
Eat Southern Inspired Cuisine at Yahoola Creek Grill
Of course, any visit to Dahlonega isn’t complete without some good food, and there are lots of great restaurants here to choose from. One of the best spots in town is the Yahoola Creek Grill, which serves Southern-inspired cuisine that’s made from scratch for brunch, lunch, and dinner. Favorite meals here include the pecan-crusted chicken and Southern burger with a fried green tomato and pimento cheese.
