Are you looking for fun things to do in Dahlonega, Georgia?
It might be a small town, but between the history and location, there are tons of fun things to do in Dahlonega, Georgia!
Dahlonega isn’t a drive-through town. There are many activities, places to shop, and places to eat that will keep any family entertained.
We enjoyed our visit to Dahlonega and learned a lot about this golden town.
Whether you’re planning a day trip or a weekend getaway, you find plenty of things to do in Dahlonega to fill your time. The guide below shares some of our favorites!
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Fun Things To Do in Dahlonega
For a small town, there is still plenty of things to do in Dahlonega, Georgia.
1. Dahlonega Gold Museum
Right in the heart of town is the Dahlonega Gold Museum. The museum is housed in the old Lumpkin County Courthouse.
Although it is a smaller museum, the exhibits are well done. Make sure to watch the movie about the Georgia gold rush! It was well done and very interesting. Plus you’ll get beautiful views of the town.
The Dahlonega Gold Museum is open every day, with hours varying depending on the day. Children six and younger are admitted for free.
2. Learn About the 1875 Diving Bell
Part of the Georgia gold rush history is the miners’ technique to find gold. One of the techniques was the use of a diving bell, a large chamber that allowed two men to work underwater for a short period of time.
A diving bell that was recovered is now on display in town. It’s interesting to learn about the history and what the miners went through to find gold.
3. Play at Hancock Park and Playground
Right next to the diving bell is Hancock Park and Playground. Kids always love the chance to play on a playground, even when they say they’re tired! This park also has a clean public bathroom, making it the perfect place for a mid-day break.
4. Shop Around
There are tons of things to do in Dahlonega, and like any small town, shopping is one of them!
There are several unique stores, like a shop featuring products and foods from England. We loved the Dahlonega General Store, where you can purchase just about anything can think of! They even have “honor system” coffee for 5 cents a cup.
5. Consolidated Gold Mine
Take a tour of one of Dahlonega’s gold mines. The Consolidated Gold Mine contained a large vein of quartz containing gold.
However due to the cost of mining, the mine only stayed open for a dozen years.
Now, visitors can tour the mine and pan for gold and mine for gemstones. The mine is open year-round, except for Thanksgiving and Christmas.
6. Dahlonega Walking Tours
There is no better way to learn the history of a small town than by doing a walking tour.
Dahlonega Walking Tours offers several types of tours, depending on your interests and ages. The history tour will be the best option for families, allowing visitors to learn more about this gold-mining town.
Older visitors would enjoy the ghost tours, both by themselves or mixed with wine tasting or pub crawls. Tours are offered at different times throughout the week. Visit their website for more information.
7. Visit Dahlonega’s Vineyards
One of the favorite things to do in Dahlonega is visit the several wineries! Many of them are less than 20 minutes from the center of town.
Bring the kids to Cavender Creek Vineyards. They have a playground on-site, allowing parents to sip and relax while the kids play.
8. Chestatee Wildlife Preserve
For a unique animal experience, check out the Chestatee Wildlife Preserve. With dozens of animals rescued or re-homed, this wildlife preserve allows guests to meet and feed some animals they may not see anywhere else.
The preserve is open daily. Visit their website for more information. The preserve is open daily. Visit their website for more information.
Other Things To Do Near Dahlonega
Even though there are enough things to do in Dahlonega to fill a long weekend or even a week, here are some other ways you can fill your time.
9. North Georgia Wildlife Park
The North Georgia Wildlife Park allows visitors to feed and meet several different animal species that you wouldn’t get to see anywhere else. Or, if you’d like to see the animals from a distance, you can experience the drive-thru safari.
The park hours vary seasonally, so visit their website for the most up-to-date information.
10. Take a Hike in the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest
The Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest is where the Appalachian Trail begins. But you don’t have to commit to a 2000-mile hike.
Along with the Appalachian Trail, there are multiple day-hiking trails within an hour of Dahlonega. Some are even within the town limits but are about 30 minutes from the center of town.
The National Forests website has information about the Blue Ridge Ranger District, which is the section of the forest closest to Dahlonega.
11. Visit the Gibbs Gardens
At over 300 acres, the Gibbs Gardens is one of the country’s most extensive residential estate gardens. Gardens is one of the largest residential estate gardens in the country.
Due to its size, visitors should plan to spend 3-4 hours touring the entire property. The early spring brings festivals featuring fields of daffodils and tulips and cherry blossom trees.
The Gibbs Gardens’ hours vary based on the season. Their website has more information.
12. Check Out Helen, Georgia
Dahlonega isn’t the only cute town in northern Georgia! Helen is a unique town that looks like it’s straight out of a fairy tale.
There are many fun things to do in Helen, and since it’s less than a 40-minute drive from Dahlonega, you’ll be able to enjoy both towns in one trip.
Places to Eat in Dahlonega, Georgia
Like the many things to do in Dahlonega, there are also plenty of places to eat! You can find almost any cuisine in this small town.
Some of the restaurants we’d recommend eating at are North Georgia BBQ, the Picnic Cafe, and Shenanigans.
Head over to the Fudge Factory or get a scoop at Connie’s Ice Cream Parlor for dessert.
Where to Stay in Dahlonega, Georgia
Due to the town’s popularity and the University of North Georgia located there, there are plenty of lodging options.
There is a Holiday Inn on Main Street that is within walking distance of all of the shops and restaurants on the square. This is the best option if you’re looking for a traditional chain that is close to everything.
27 on Park is another great option in the heart of town.
Outside of town, you find motels like Quality Inn and Days Inn.
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