Welcome to my little “Gold Rush Town”, Dahlonega. Below, I’m sharing all my favorites from a local’s perspective! My new studio is located just a few blocks from Dahlonega’s historical square, and is known for cozy, laid-back, Hallmark-movie vibes! Think NC, Highlands, but much closer, cozier, and centered around families!
Places to Eat:
Shaninegans Irish Pub: My favorite Dahlonega, GA dinner spot! It’s one of a kind and has been nominated as the best Irish restaurant in Georgia! I recommend the “crack dip”, fish & chips, and my personal favorite, the Shillelagh sandwich. They also have great options for children, my kiddos love their hand-battered chicken fingers! https://www.theshenaniganspub.com
Picnic Cafe: Dahlonega’s best lunch spot, located in the heart of Dahlonega’s square. Offering delicious sandwiches, homemade desserts, and coffee. My go-to order is the Georgia Peach chicken salad on a croissant with tomato bisque soup and a slice of the cake of the day. https://www.instagram.com/thepicniccafe/
Connie’s: Connie’s Ice Cream and Sandwich Shop has been open since the 50’s and is a Dahlonega gem! Connie’s is located on Dahlonega’s square and serves hand-dipped ice cream, deluxe sandwiches, and specialty coffee. My favorite lunch sandwich is the buffalo chicken pinani sandwich with potato salad. https://www.instagram.com/conniesicecream/
The Smith House: Offering southern cooking, with family family-style dining experience. They offer all the southern dishes that Georgia’s known for- fried chicken, cream corn, fried okra, and so much more! https://smithhouse.com/dining/
Jethros Coffee & Public House: My FAVORITE coffee spot! Pick up a cup of coffee or a seasonal latte and stroll along Dahlonega’s square! https://www.instagram.com/jethroshouse/?hl=en
Dahlonega Social: Located right next door to Connie’s, Dahlonega’s newest coffee spot and home of locally roasted espresso drinks, pastries, and cozy vibes. https://dahlonegasocial.com
Paul Thomas Chocolates: The perfect spot for a sweet treat! Their handcrafted truffles and chocolates are the best way to end your day in Dahlonega. My personal favorites are the white chocolate lemon truffle and the sea salted turtle clusters. They have an antique toy train that runs along the store, a special feature that my children LOVE, a MUST VISIT! https://www.instagram.com/paulthomaschocolates/
Things To Do!
Hancock Playground/Park: Hancock Park is located just off Dahlonega’s Historic Square at the corner of North Park Street and Warwick Street. Families can enjoy the playground and spacious green space in the heart of downtown. Address: 55 N Meaders St, Dahlonega, GA 30533
Dahlonega General Store: You can’t visit Dahlonega without visiting the General Store! From jellies, old-fashioned glass-bottled sodas, locally homemade caldles/soaps, and old-fashioned candy- it’s a fun stop for all. https://dahlonegageneralstore.com/about-us/
Giggle Monkey Toy Store: A REAL toy store- just like the good old days, and every kid’s dream! They have a little bit of something for every age. It’s such a treasured store for my family! https://www.instagram.com/gigglemonkeytoys/
Dahlonega Consolidated Goldmine: Just a few miles from Dahlonega’s square- North Georgia’s only underground experience in a real gold mine. Families can tour the underground gold mies and go panning for gems/gold. This is such a fun local experience, especially for older children. https://consolidatedgoldmine.com
Holly Theatre: The Holly Theatre is a historic theater, originally constructed as a movie theater in 1948, and is currently operated as a non-profit theatrical venue. They offer monthly mainstage musicals, plays, concerts, and children’s theater. https://hollytheater.com
The bottom two recommendations are not located in Dahlonega- but are local, seasonal must-dos!
BJ Reece Apple Orchard: Located just a few miles from Burt’s Pumpkin Farm- BJ Reece is a local, family-owned apple orchard. Pick apples from the orchard, or visit their market for all things apples. They also offer fun fall activities: petting zoo, farm slides, cow milking, pig races, and so much more! Their hand-made apple pies and apple slushes are my favorite! https://reeceorchards.com/visit-bj-reece-orchards
Burts Pumpkin Farm: Only 30 minutes from my farm in Dahlonega- Burt’s is practically famous to families in North Georgia all the way down to South Atlanta. They’s known for their sea of colorful pumpkins, fun hayride, and variety of tasty seasonal fall treats! https://www.burtspumpkinfarmgeorgia.com
Grace Emily Photography specializes in newborn and family photography in Cumming, Gainesville, Alpharetta, Milton, and the surrounding Atlanta areas.
