Discover Dahlonega: North Georgia’s City of Gold

*Updated for 2024

Dahlonega (pronounced Dah-LON-eh-gah, in case you may be wondering) is a small place that is big in history and a strong sense of community. Located about an hour’s drive north of Atlanta, in the shadow of the ascent of the Appalachian Trail, Dahlonega has the dual personality of an ideal small mountain town in the deep South trying to juggle the impact of past and present.

There’s still gold in North Georgia. You just have to know where to look. One trip to my former hometown of Dahlonega, and you know you’ve struck a rich mine of uptown culture and downhome charm, and a future as bright as the 98%-pure gold it produced that now shines on the Georgia State Capitol building – as the famous quote goes when referring to the nation’s first Gold Rush here, “there’s millions in it.”

It is a laid-back community of people doggedly trying to preserve its history while also welcoming throngs of visitors and struggling to accept the growth that is necessary for its future.

Dahlonega has undergone many changes over the years, since its development as the site of the first major Gold Rush in the United States in 1828. Although the era of gold fever has long passed, Dahlonega has discovered another source of gold: tourism. From seasonal festivals to cycling tournaments, it is a destination hub for tourists year-round.

Visitors flock to the area in the fall to observe the vibrant colors of the leaves, then return in the winter to experience an old-fashioned Christmas celebration worthy of several Hallmark movies. The spring brings hikers, bikers and wildlife seekers, and we welcome trout fishermen and University of North Georgia students in the summer. Our mountains also play host to year-round wedding parties, wine tasting excursions, and nature lovers.

Despite its ever-expanding amenities, Dahlonega still holds on to its Southern charm and small-town friendliness, offering something to do for all ages and interests. It is my pleasure to share with you just a few of the reasons you should plan a visit to North Georgia’s city of gold.

 

EAT + DRINK DAHLONEGA

• Enjoy breakfast or lunch, or a quick treat (choose from an array of cookies, cakes, muffins or pastries) from the Picnic Café on the Square. Although there may be a wait at times during busy seasons, you will enjoy its simple-but-tasty offerings. My favorite is the chicken salad. You can also get your coffee fix here for a much-needed pick-me-up. If the weather’s nice, sit outside and people-watch.

• Who doesn’t love ice cream? Connie’s is a local favorite, also on the Square where you can enjoy lunch and a milkshake, ice-cream float or waffle cone.

• For good ol’ Southern cookin’, look no further than The Smith House Restaurant & Inn, just a block from downtown. Don’t walk in expecting a light fare. On any given day, you will enjoy table full of fried chicken, mac n’ cheese, mashed potatoes, greens and the like, all served family-style. Come hungry because you’ll be well-fed. And don’t forget to see the gold mine shaft on the lower level!

Read more about the Smith House here!

• If you’re in the mood for creative and tasty burgers, stop by Spirit’s Tavern on the Square for craft burgers and cocktails.

• Just a block from the Square, Shenanigans Irish Pub is a favorite among visitors and locals. Start with an order of Southwestern Cheese Dip (known around town as “Crack Dip” for its addictive qualities), followed by the shepherd’s pie and peanut butter pie. They also offer a full bar (the Painkiller is my fav!) and live music on select nights.

• One of the newest venues to the Dahlonega restaurant line-up is Public House of Dahlonega, offering a seasonal American fusion menu and cocktails. I haven’t made it there to try yet, but will be visiting soon!

• Located a mile from downtown, Yahoola Creek Grill puts a spin on classic Southern favorites, like fried green tomatoes (so good!) and shrimp & grits. Their menu is updated seasonally, as ingredients are sourced locally.

• Get a taste of New Orleans at Bourbon Street Grille. I love their gumbo served over cheese grits with a cornbread muffin. Dine on the upstairs balcony for a scenic view of the Dahlonega square.

*Disclaimer: These are only a sampling of popular dining choices that can be found in and around Dahlonega. Be sure to check the Dahlonega Visitors Center for a full list of local restaurants. Still can’t decide? Ask a local what they would recommend. I promise, we are friendly.

EXPLORE DAHLONEGA

• For many visitors, North Georgia means hiking. A short hike to a scenic waterfall or a week-long adventure on the Appalachian trail, Dahlonega is an ideal starting point to experience a variety of mountain trails, scenic drives, waterfalls and majestic views. Just miles from downtown, Cane Creek Falls has options for all visitors to view the falls. If you are willing to make a little more of a drive, I recommend Amicalola Falls. As the largest cascading waterfall in the Southeast, there are a lot of steps to the observation deck near the top, but the views are amazing. There is also an overlook at the very top of the falls that you can drive to. For those looking for a more strenuous trek, this is also an access point to the Appalachian Trail.

• As Dahlonega is known for its gold, no trip would be complete without a visit to our Gold Museum, located in the historic courthouse on the Square. A self-guided tour of the museum pays tribute to the Gold Rush and its impact on the area’s development and history.

• Want to take some of that gold home with you? Mine for gold and gemstones at one of our two remaining gold mines. As the oldest gold mining establishment in the state, Crisson Gold Mine is home to Georgia’s only working stamp mill. For a chance to tour an underground gold mine, head to Consolidated Gold Mine and visit what was once one of the largest gold-mining operations in the South.

• Learn more about Dahlonega with a tour from Dahlonega Walking Tours. Hear tales of local hauntings, experience a downtown wine tour or explore Dahlonega’s culinary scene. Highly recommended!

• During warmer weather, you can take a tube, kayak or canoe for a scenic ride down a section of the Chestatee River with Appalachian Outfitters.

SHOP DAHLONEGA

• Every trip to the Square must start with a visit to the Dahlonega General Store. Step back in time and shop for local honey and jellies, trinkets and themed souvenirs to the tune of an old-time player piano. Make sure you pick up a bag of roasted peanuts and try the fresh-ground coffee for only a nickel! The moonshine jelly and peach preserves are some favorites among visitors.

• The Gold Shop offers jewelry crafted from the almost-pure gold mined around Dahlonega (the same gold that covers the dome of the State Capitol). I often visit just to swoon over their selections!

• One of the most unique shops in Dahlonega is Crown & Bear, which stocks a variety of items designed by and imported from vendors from all over the British Isles. You can browse for European snacks and teas, stationary, candles, kitchenware, linens, teapots and more.

You can read more about this charming shop here!

• The Square also hosts specialty stores where you can bring gifts back for your family, or just to keep them for yourself. Alpine Olive Tree is an olive oil and balsamic vinegar tasting room with a huge selection of tasty oils and a variety of flavored vinegar imported from Italy. In the Spice & Tea Exchange, you can choose from apothecary jars full of exotic teas, spices and seasonings.

• If you have a sweet tooth, be sure to stop by the Fudge Factory on the Square. The fresh-made pralines are my favorite!

These are just a few suggestions I thought y’all might like to read about if you’re planning a trip to my little town. There are plenty more things to buy, eat and explore in and around Dahlonega, so I hope you will come by and see us for yourself!

To plan your visit to Dahlonega, contact the Dahlonega Visitors Center – they will take care of you.

Have you ever visited Dahlonega, Georgia? Tell me about your trip in the comments!

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