A Day in Downtown Dahlonega
Some days I just need to get in the car, turn on Dave Matthews, and drive until things start to feel a little lighter.
Dahlonega is one of my go-to “let’s escape reality and pretend we live another life” towns. It’s only about an hour and a half from Cartersville, the birthplace of Feral House Co, but it somehow feels like a completely different world in the best way.
When I moved to Georgia in 2021, I saw Dahlonega on the map and felt pulled to it. I didn’t know why. Maybe it was the name. Maybe it just sounded like something out of a fantasy novel. Either way, I knew I needed to go.
And I wasn’t disappointed. This little mountain town has become one of my favorite day trip escapes.
Want to have an immersive experience on a butterfly farm? Dahlonega.
Want to see a waterfall but maybe not, like, hike? Dahlonega.
Want to walk around a real-life Hallmark set? Dahlonega.
Want to pan for gold like a real pioneer? Dahlonega. Obviously.
We usually start our adventures with a plan to see something beautiful — and Cane Creek Falls fits the bill.
It’s just outside of town, tucked behind Camp Glisson. No big hike. No confusing trailhead. Just a short walk to a waterfall that feels like a reset.
Heads up though, you’ll want to call ahead before you go. It’s private property and often closed to the public during summer camp season.
It’s worth the check. The kind of spot that’s quiet and easy and feels like it’s doing something good for your brain.
So, I won’t give you a full itinerary, but I will tell you the places I always hit when I’m in town.
Here’s your “park the car on the square and wander” list:
☕ Canopy + Roots
Part underground. Completely cozy. A coffee shop slash creative space where the baristas are kind, the lighting is perfect, and the energy feels like a warm hug.
🛍 Grateful Days
This place feels like a sunshiney fever dream. Crystals, incense, good vibes, and just enough nostalgia to make you want to buy a lava lamp.
🧢 Dahlonega General Store
Exactly what it sounds like — old school snacks, locally made goodies, and a little bit of everything. You’ll probably walk out with a hat, a jar of jam, and something you didn’t know you needed.
🥪 Picnic Café & Dessertery
This is the lunch stop. No debate. It’s cozy, consistent, and their sandwiches and chicken salad are always exactly what you need.
🍫 Kilwins
I always stop in for chocolate before heading out. The smell alone is enough to pull you in, and bringing home a little something sweet just feels right.
🌶️ Outlaw House of Jerky
All the jerky. Every kind you can imagine. I usually go in for one thing and leave with at least three.
🛋 Antique Shopping
Some of the best I’ve found anywhere. Take your time. Dig around. The perfect random treasure is always waiting.
🗓 DiscoverDahlonega.org
Check the event calendar before you go. The square is always buzzing with something — festivals, live music, even gold panning. You never know what you’ll stumble into.
Let This Be Your Sign
Plan a day, right now, and go. Dahlonega days usually look a little different than they were planned — but that’s part of the fun.
There’s always something new to see, really great shopping, and a ton of beautiful art and galleries to explore. Obviously, you need to check out Downtown Dahlonega.
This blog barely scratches the surface. We’ve got another one coming soon with more things to do in and around town. Waterfalls, wine tastings, butterfly farms, maybe even a little gold panning if you’re feeling it.
Been to Dahlonega? Tell us your favorite stops. Coffee shops, wineries, the best meal you’ve had on the square — we want to hear it all.