It’s that time of year again! School is back in session and before you know it the leaves will turn to those glorious Fall colors, the air will be crisp and our beloved mountain town will be flooded with visitors from all around.
Fall is one of the best times to visit Dahlonega, not only for the weather and scenery, but also because you won’t run short of things to do during this time of year, so don’t be shocked if you end up planning another trip… or 2… or 20 🥰
As local residents, offering unique ways to experience the area, we love nothing more than sharing our love for our sweet town and guiding you through how to “live like a local.”
If you’re unfamiliar, Dahlonega is nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, only an hour north of Atlanta, offering a small town feel that will have you questioning if you’ve just stepped into a Hallmark movie, with a community of smiling faces that have endless fun to offer.
It’s quickly become a popular destination for families and friends to come together and make memories, which is exactly what we want to help you do with this fall itinerary to Dahlonega, GA.
Pick Your Stay
First things first, when you’re planning your weekend getaway to Dahlonega, you’ll want to scope out the best place to stay so that you have the ultimate experience.
From woodsy treehouses to modern farmhouses and cozy cottages, we’ve got you covered.
Click here to view our StayDahlonega properties to choose the one that best suits your trip!
Whether you’re an adventurer, wine lover, shopaholic or total foodie, Dahlonega has you covered with endless ways to fill your fall weekend in what we consider to be Georgia’s most golden small town ✨
Upon arrival at your home away from home, unpack and settle in before heading out to explore all of the wonder that Dahlonega has to offer.
Plan Your Day
Day 1:
When you’re ready for the fun, make your way to the town square – this will be your hub for most shops, restaurants and entertainment.
It’s not a vacation until you grab some local memorabilia, so go ahead and stroll the streets and stop into a few of our favorite shops to grab your souvenirs:
Dress Up Boutique – a sweet boutique offering up all the fashion trends and Dahlonega merch. Bonus: they have a neon sign photo wall for you to snap a picture while shopping!
The Humble Abode – we can’t promise that you won’t leave here without a new candle or coffee mug, but we do promise that it’s worth it
Dahlonega General Store – this old fashioned country store is your one stop shop for nostalgic North Georgia inspired gifts
When you’re ready to dine, save yourself from hours of Google searches and choose from one our top 3 picks:
Spirits Tavern – a relaxed bar atmosphere serving up one of a kind burgers and a great selection of craft beers that you won’t find anywhere else (oh, and don’t skip the mac & cheese bites – trust us!)
Bourbon Street Grille – a Louisiana inspired restaurant with a balcony overlooking downtown Dahlonega
19 North Seafood – if you’re a seafood lover, look no further than 19 North to get your fill on delicious entrees
Before tucking in to your treehouse, top off your first night in Dahlonega with some local entertainment at Canopy and The Roots or Holly Theatre with your choice of comedy shows, theatre plays or live music.
Day 2:
After a good night’s sleep, kickstart your day in downtown Dahlonega with a warm cup of coffee from our favorite local shop, Jethro’s (and snap a pic on their cozy couch) before visiting Picnic Cafe for a hearty breakfast.
After you’re fueled up with breakfast sandwiches and tasty treats from the bakery, it’s time to hit the road for a fun filled fall day in the mountains.
Fall Fun & Festivals To Choose From 🎃
Dahlonega’s Famous Gold Rush – October 15 + 16, 2022
Voted one of the Top 20 Events in the Southeast by the Southeast Tourism Society, the Gold Rush Festival is held every October to celebrate Dahlonega’s gold discovery in the 1800’s. Each year this festival draws in a crowd unlike any other while the downtown streets line with over 200 vendors, including arts, crafts and food.
On Saturday, October 15th at 10:00 AM, the fun will kick off with a parade and will follow with all the festival fun that you don’t want to miss.
Mountain Moonshine Festival – October 21 + 23, 2022
If you’re unable to visit during the Gold Rush Days, another great festival option during October is located just a town over in downtown Dawsonville.
The Mountain Moonshine Festival is held each year at the Georgia Racing Hall of Fame and Main Street Park and always includes a parade, live entertainment, car show and vendors providing souvenirs and tasty treats.
Burt’s Pumpkin Farm – pumpkin season September 1 – November 10, 2022
This family owned and operated pumpkin farm located just 30 minutes outside of Dahlonega draws an enormous crowd every season for families and friends to enjoy all of the traditional fall activities, including a pumpkin patch, hayride and delicious tastes of fall, like pumpkin bread, boiled peanuts and caramel apples.
B.J. Reece Orchards – U-Pick apple season August 27 – October 30, 2022
Another popular destination located about 45 minutes outside of Dahlonega in Ellijay, GA, is this apple orchard well known for its U-Pick season, petting zoo and market where you can stock up on your favorite apple flavored snacks and ciders.
After you’ve got your fill of fall fun, you’ll be craving a bite to eat, so we suggest stopping into North Georgia BBQ or picking up a to-go order before heading back to your AirBnb for some relaxation before you continue your day in Dahlonega.
Once you’ve freshened up and maybe even snuck in a quick snooze, it’s time to keep the spooky season vibes high with some of Dahlonega’s best nightlife.
If you’re still hungry, one of our best fine dining options that we highly recommend to visitors is Trattoria at Montaluce Winery. This place brings all of the Italian feels and will have you seriously wondering if you’re still in the North Georgia Mountains.
After you’ve enjoyed your time at Montaluce, we encourage you to make your way back to the square and top off your meal with a sweet treat from one of our favorites: The Fudge Factory, where you’ll find all of your classic candies, or Connie’s Ice Cream Parlor, where you’re sure to find your favorite flavor!
And finally, no fall day would be complete without a seasonal activity, like a town square Ghost Tour or Boos and Brews Pub Crawl.
Day 3:
Before you close out your trip and make your way home, enjoy a scenic drive to Wolf Mountain Vineyard to end your weekend with a delicious brunch (only offered on Sundays) and snap a picture on their gorgeous grounds to capture the fall foliage that takes over Dahlonega every year. 
While you’re there, grab a bottle of wine to savor until you return to Georgia’s most golden small town… because we know you’ll be back!
With so many things to do, places to eat and sights to see, Dahlonega truly is one of the best destinations for families and friends to come together, no matter the occasion and we’re passionate about helping you create an escape and experience that you’ll cherish forever.
When you’re ready to return, we’re always here to welcome you back for more fall fun and every season in between! Cheers 
The Stipes