Dahlonega Georgia is a charming town rich with history of the first major U.S. Gold rush in 1828. There is more to this town than it’s “golden history” with wineries, downtown shops and restaurants. Outdoor venues have beautiful mountain vistas, roaring waterfalls, and hiking trails. The following are just a few of the highlights when visiting Dahlonega.
Dahlonega Gold Museum – The Historic 1836 Lumpkin County Courthouse is the home to Dahlonega Gold Museum where visitors can see rare gold coins, artifacts, and history of the area. From huge gold nuggets, to maps of the mines, to a document signed by the 10th President of the United States- the Gold Museum features objects that brilliantly display the charm and the history of Dahlonega.
Crisson Gold Mine – Home to the only working Stamp Mill in Georgia dated to the 1800’s; this has been used at several mines in the Dahlonega area and in other states. Placed on the site in the 1960’s, it has ten stamps with each one weighing 450 lbs. each. The purpose of the Stamp Mill is to crush gold bearing rock into sand so it can be processed. See how this mine has contributed to our State Capital and how you can pan for gold plus gemstones at the mine.
Wineries and Vineyards – Home to several wine tasting rooms and over five wineries, Dahlonega offers a variety of award-winning wines to locals and visitors from all over the world. Its fertile, mineral-rich soil produces versatile lines of European, French hybrids, and American wine grapes. These venues offer tours, tastings, and impressive scenic views. During seasonal times of the year, annual events like the Dahlonega Wine Trail Weekend; are held every August, to tour each venue.
Historic Downtown and Special Events – Dahlonega’s historic public square is the hub of the county’s thriving tourism activity. Lined with brick sidewalks, shops, galleries, and restaurants these charming historical 19th century buildings bring a quaint feeling to any visitor. Entertainment and Festivals are an integral part of Dahlonega’s heritage and it’s not unusual to hear musicians jamming on the square or see artists with their sketch pads taking part in the outdoor beauty.
During the holiday’s, an Old Fashioned Christmas Celebration is held in December with lighting of luminaries, festivities, carolers, and Santa on the Square.
The Holly Theater – built in 1946 has something to offer for entertainment to locals and tourists alike. The relaxed informal atmosphere makes the theater a great place to enjoy a show for music, comedy or theatre performance. Originally used as a movie house and continued through the 80’s, it was restored with community effort in the 1990’s and re-dedicated as The Holly Theatre Community Center, Inc. and placed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Amicalola State Park & Lodge is an 829 acre Georgia State Park located just outside of Dahlonega on GA Highway 52. The park’s name is derived from a Cherokee word meaning “tumbling waters”. This park has camping, hiking, picnic shelters, group shelters, trout fishing, geocaching and ranger programs. Twelve miles of hiking trails surround the entryway to the Appalachian Trail. Lodging facilities offer nice accommodations and dining with spectacular views of the surrounding mountains.
Appalachian Trail and Waterfalls – Dahlonega is home to the beginning of the Appalachian Trail, a 2,100 plus mile hiking trail that extends up the eastern United States from Georgia to Maine. The famous trail starts on Springer Mountain which is located just a few miles from the in Amicalola State Park & Lodge. Amicalola Falls is the highest waterfall in the Eastern U.S. at an awe-inspiring 729 feet.
Numerous Activities – The outdoor views in the Chattahoochee National Forest area are spectacular driving in the mountains, relaxing by Chestatee River fishing, kayaking, swimming, or tubing. Additional recreation includes golfing, horseback riding and ATV trails. Spend time in a cabin for the week or stay for a weekend. Other leisure activities such as Jolie Day Spa offer relaxing massages, spa & salon services.
Stop in or call the Dahlonega Visitor’s Bureau at 13 South Park Street.
Call 1-800-231-5543 or go to www.dahlonega.org for more information.
