Dahlonega, GA

Dahlonega, Georgia is a charming town rich with history, art and adventure. Named for the Cherokee word meaning “yellow money,” it was the site of the first major U.S. Gold rush in 1828 and is home to the artifact-rich Dahlonega Gold Museum. Experience the rush of panning for gold at the ruins of Crisson Gold Mine and learn the history of the Chestatee River Diving Bell, a giant maritime artifact.

Dahlonega also has the greatest concentration of wineries in Georgia because of its fertile, mineral-rich soil. The town’s restaurants range from cozy bistros to friendly cafés to metropolitan-chic delights. Downtown offers plenty of shopping, country inns and wonderful year-round events like art exhibitions, concerts in the park and wine tasting. Adventurers can explore waterfalls and hike the Appalachian trailhead at Springer Mountain.

Amicalola State Park & Lodge offers a variety of family-fun activities including camping, picnicking, trout fishing and geocaching. Whether people are driving through the countryside, visiting wineries, exploring the great outdoors, or having a festive time in town, Dahlonega makes everyone feel “rich” and excited about the area.