A History
Nestled in the North Georgia Mountains lives a town named Dahlonega.
The first settler’s struck gold in the Fall of 1828. Once the word got out of this discovery, many came to search for newfound riches. By 1829, Dahlonega was the site of the first major gold rush in America. Gold mining was the leading industry in Dahlonega for over a century. The Federal Government even minted gold coins here from 1838 to 1861. Visitors of Dahlonega can see a complete collection of the coins on display at the Dahlonega Gold Museum State Historic Site.
Today, something is still sparkling about this mountain town, and it’s not just their gold. Dahlonega is full of hidden gems. From wineries to waterfalls to hiking or dining, there is an adventure for anyone to enjoy.
The Wine Country of The South
Dahlonega struck gold once again, but this time with grapes. Surrounded by mountains and rich soil, Dahlonega and Lumpkin County’s land is the perfect condition for growing grapes. Because of this, the ever-increasing list of wineries is why some consider Dahlonega to be the Napa Valley of the South. In 2018, the federal government designated the area as an American Viticultural Area called The Dahlonega Plateau.
Fall In Love With FALL
When the trees turn golden, the mountains come alive. Hikers and Leaf Watchers flock to see the area in a new light. This is the time to explore the many waterfalls and outdoor adventures that Dahlonega has in abundance. If you would rather not hike, take a drive through the mountains or attend one of our Fall events. On the 3rd weekend of October, the beloved Gold Rush Days Festival kicks off our peak leaf season. The historic streets fill with visitors enjoying arts, music, food, and more.
That Hallmark Movie Magic
The magical moments begin the Friday after Thanksgiving with the annual Lighting of The Square. This starts the season of Old Fashioned Christmas. Christmas lights, bows, and garlands can be found hanging on every building and tree. The clattering of hooves carrying guests on romantic carriage rides can be heard throughout the sparkling town. In the crisp mountain air, you can smell the fresh hot cocoa and fudge being prepared in one of the many confectionaries found in the historic downtown. These are the movie-esque moments that make Dahlonega magical this time of year. You might even catch the film Christmas in Homestead on tv that Hallmark filmed here in 2016.
Make this town the top of your travel bucket list. Visit our website, Dahlonega.org, and discover the heart of the Georgia mountains.