winery tours dahlonega ga

Visit the Dahlonega Plateau Experience the “Heart of Georgia Wine Country” by taking a wine tour in the mountains! An afternoon along the Dahlonega Wine Trail is a spectacular way to sample North Georgia premium wines, tour winemaking facilities, and take in the views of the Appalachian foothills.  Eight wineries offer a nice variety of experiences and hospitality packages of tasting, tours, exceptional dinner menus, and special events. Book A Wine Tour  The DSH Wine Tours have become a favorite way to experience the beautiful mountain scenery, extraordinary wines and showcase the uniqueness of our North GA wineries. Choose to travel like a local with “Mama” from “Mama’s Taxi” or experience a stylish ""Napa Valley-esque" Tour with the new Savoir Fair Tours. However you decide to travel, we are here to make sure your experience is completely safe and unforgettably enjoyable.  For more options, we recommend taking a look below!  

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Dahlonega-Lumpkin County Visitors Bureau

13 South Park Street

Dahlonega, GA 30533

(706) 864-3711 or (800) 231-5543

© 2024 - Dahlonega-Lumpkin County Visitors Bureau

Call us: 770-353-9757

DSH Transportation offers top-level luxury transportation in North Georgia. We excel in providing our clients with the best customer service and comfort. Enjoy your ride in our custom vehicles with the personal attention of our coachmen who are trained to accommodate all your travel needs.

What makes us different we are the only company that offers a price with tastings and without. we start each of our tours at a base price for transportation only, that way you are able to purchase what you would like on your own. or we have the option where you can add our vip add-on that includes tastings at 4 of our select wineries. check out our website to see which tour is best for you if you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us, we would be happy to help cheers.

Looking for lodging? Check with our partners:

Kindle Ridge

The Inn at Blackberry Hill

Dahlonega Square Hotel

Lakeview Landing

"We had a great time with DSH, and Justin was an amazing host! This is our second time doing the wine tour, and DSH Transportation is definitely the company to use for your event. We will definitely use them in the future."

- Andrea F. 

Airport Transportation

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THE 5 BEST Dahlonega Wine Tasting Tours

Wine tasting tours in dahlonega.

• Wine Tours & Tastings
• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Walking Tours
• 4WD, ATV & Off-Road Tours
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Couples
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Hidden Gems
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Kids
• Adventurous
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. DSH Transportation

2. Dahlonega Walking Tours

3. DahloneGO

4. Georgia Wine Country Tours

5. Yahoola Tours

What travelers are saying.

• Dahlonega Area Wineries

Award Winning

Food Available

Wolf Mountain Vineyards and Winery is the first Georgia winery EVER to win Best-in-Class and double Gold Medals at the prestigious San Francisco Chronicle and Los Angeles International Wine competitions.

Located just five miles from Dahlonega in the North Georgia Mountains, picturesque Wolf Mountain has won over 200 medals in major U.S. wine tasting competitions and is considered a leader in fine wine production on the East Coast.

Vineyard Hoppers ...North Georgia winery tours​

Bachelorette Tour for Hayley

The girls decided to have a 60's theme for Hayley's bachelorette party.  Had a blast starting with Wolf Mountain, Cavender Creek (photo on porch) and ending with Trattoria di Monteluce.

Rain did NOT deter the fun!

Choose your wineries from the list below:

• Accent Cellars
• Three Sisters Winery
• Frogtown Winery
• Kaya Vineyard & Winery
• Wolf Mountain Vineyards
• Cavender Creek Vineyards
• The Cottage Vineyard & Winery
• Monteluce Winery and Restaurant
• Yonah Mountain Winery
• Serenity Cellars
• Limoges Cellars (new)

What customers are saying...

Get in touch.

Dahlonega, GA 30533

(706) 300-4535 or

[email protected]

Tours available daily by appointment

Payments Cash Venmo  CashApp

Highly recommend! Carrie did a fantastic job touring us around the wineries! She had a very friendly, positive and kind attitude. Thank you for a wonderful time. We will definitely back!

Excellent company. Our driver took great care of us. She ensured we made it to wineries of our choice and safely back to our hotel. Highly recommend her service in the Dahlonega area! Much needed service in Dahlonega area! We loved Carrie!

Carrie was a dream! She picked us up at our hotel and was very prompt. She took us to several different wineries and had lots of local tips for us while we were in town. She even took us for ice cream on the way back to our hotel. Her prices are very reasonable and she accepts Venmo. I recommend Carrie and would use her again.

Carrie was awesome! Very knowledgeable, flexible and affordable. I highly recommend Vineyard Hoppers.

My friends and I used Carrie for this service in August of 2019 and we loved it and her so much that we will be using her again this year! We insisted that she make this a personal business because it is completely ideal and Carrie was so accommodating. Easy to communicate with, kind, punctual and knowledgeable of the area. See you again soon, Carrie!

Another fantastic wine tour with Carrie! We had a fantastic time visiting four vineyards and being cared for well by visiting a new spot that we hadn't been to before and just loved it. Will definitely come back again and certainly call on Carrie!!!

Carrie was awesome!!! Highly recommend her for a driver to tour wineries in North GA! Our group of 6 loved her so much! Knowledgeable, friendly and so helpful and fun! Great day!

Thanks so much for the great tour!

We will!! Thank you so much! We had a great time! Thank you for the wine bag and crackers and truffles and all the little goodies! You are so sweet!  Karen S.

My husband and I booked through vineyard hoppers to shuttle us to 4 different wineries. The price is unbeatable. The owner is very kind and even gave us a gift. This company is very accommodating and will go above and beyond to make your experience perfect. I subtracted 1 star because the planning was a little last minute. However, I highly recommend booking with this company for a safe day at the Dahlonega wineries!  Samantha

Carrie was AWESOME!!!! Professional and courteous. She shared her thoughts on the best wineries and let us to choose where we wanted to go. She allowed us ample time at each location. We will definitely be contacting her again for another tour!!!! Highly recommend her services.  Amy S.

August 20, 2021

Carrie is awesome. Will take to all the wineries and is knowledgeable of all wineries. Carrie will take great care of you and provide transportation to all wineries in the area!

February 19, 2022

Carrie was wonderful!  We booked a bachelorette party and had several plan changes but she was still so accommodating and sweet!  The girls raved about how much fun they had with her!

December 10, 2023

Carrie was fantastic! It was raining out and she had an umbrella for both of us and was conscious of the wet roads. I would highly recommend   her.

December 15, 2023

Carrie’s did a fantastic job on our wine tour! I selected which vineyards we wanted to pick and she created the most optimal itinerary. Actually our last destination didn’t work out but Carrie was quick to suggest a phenomen al replacement.

March 3, 2024

Carrie was wonderful on our recent trip to Dahlonega. She gave lots of local recommendations and was very sweet and talkative during the drive to the different wineries. I actually left my phone at one of the wineries, and she was kind enough to take me back and still let us grab a drink at our last stop even though we had already used our 6 hours. I would definitely recommend Vineyard Hoppers for your next trip!

May 3, 2024

This past weekend our bachelorette bunch had the pleasure of touring with Vineyard Hoppers and they didn’t disappoint! Carrie and Russ were right on time, kept the energy alive, and made the experience so special for our bride to be. Very knowledgeable, punctual, and a blast to hop along with on winery day! Thank you!

The Boegner family is proud to present Wolf Mountain Vineyards & Winery

Wolf Mountain Vineyards and Winery is the first Georgia winery EVER to win Best-in-Class and double Gold Medals at the prestigious San Francisco Chronicle and Los Angeles International Wine competitions.

Here are some tips for your next visit!

You DO NOT need a reservation for the wine tasting unless you have more than 8 guests in your party.

Due to our hours to the general public we are not available to host private daytime events (i.e. Bridal Showers, Baby Showers, Bridesmaids Luncheons) We only host evening weddings and rehearsal dinners for groups of 75 or more.

Tastings are offered beginning at 11am (THURS – SUN) with the last tasting starting at 4:00pm (since we close promptly at 5pm.)

The tasting room is MUCH less busy early in the day, so try to arrive soon after we open at 11am.

ALL outdoor tables at the tasting room are first come, first serve, so again please arrive early to secure a spot.

Reservations are not required for the tasting room bar menu, but they ARE required for café lunch or brunch through OPENTABLE.COM .

There is no outdoor seating available for café lunch or brunch and the brunch is a self-serve BUFFET STYLE brunch .

Dogs at the Winery: We do allow leashed dogs on our lower level Tasting Room patios.

VIEW ALL AWARDS

Wolf Mountain Winery & Vineyards Offers:

Sunday Brunch

Our Mother's Day Sunday Brunch is SOLD OUT.

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(706) 525-1465

Savoir Faire Wine Tours

Welcome to Savoir Faire Wine Tours

We create custom wine tours to meet your needs and we happily recommend wineries, restaurants, hotels, and resorts for your pleasure with no time or distance restrictions. Sightseeing of any kind may be included. Bring a picnic lunch, dine-in at a local wineries and restaurants, or order a takeout lunch from our local beloved vendors.

8 Great Wineries in Dahlonega GA

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. All hosted affiliate links follow our editorial & privacy policies .

One of the oldest Blue Ridge Mountain towns in Georgia , Dahlonega has grown into a major tourism hotspot in the North Georgia mountains.

Originally best known as the site of the 1828 Georgia Gold Rush, Dahlonega is now beloved for its diverse array of outdoor activities , historical attractions, festivals , shops, restaurants , and wineries!

It’s also home to an Old Fashioned Christmas celebration that has made it one of our favorite places to go for Christmas in Georgia .

While the natural beauty of the area is widely celebrated, it’s less well-known that Dahlonega (and the North Georgia Mountains in general) offers an optimal climate for producing great wines.

There are a number of award-winning vineyards in Dahlonega and other small towns nearby.

So we’ve gathered info about some of the best wineries in Dahlonega, including tours, tastings, and some of the best varietals offered at each.

READ MORE:  The 15 Best Wineries in the North Georgia Mountains

Wineries in Dahlonega GA Guide

• Cavender Creek Vineyards & Winery
• Frogtown Cellars
• Kaya Vineyard and Winery
• Wolf Mountain Vineyards & Winery
• Montaluce Winery & Restaurant
• Three Sisters Vineyards
• Accent Cellars
• Dahlonega Resort and Vineyard

READ MORE: The 15 Best Things to Do in Dahlonega GA & Lumpkin County

1. Cavender Creek Vineyards & Winery

3610 Cavender Creek Road, Dahlonega GA • 706-451-9084

Official Website

Cavender Creek Vineyards is a small farm and North Georgia winery that produces delicious wines.

They’re located in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains just outside the heart of Dahlonega.

While the winery is best known for its drinks and Southern hospitality, they’re also known for their donkeys.

Original owners Raymond and Donna Castleberry bought a Sicilian donkey in 2008 and named him Hotie (get it, Donkey Hotie?).

Sadly, Hotie has since passed away. But a baby donkey named Elliot was brought to the vineyards in 2018 and he loves to meet visitors!

The most popular wines in the vineyard include Cabernet Fran, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Manseng, and several Norton blends (including Blackjack and the fan favorite Donkey Hotie).

There are also varietals like Sauvignon Blanc, Chenin Blanc, Pinot Noir, Zinfandel, Merlot, Viognier, and Cabernet Franc you can try.

There are no official tours of the vineyards and winery , but you can explore the area to take in the beautiful scenery.

This is also a great Dahlonega winery to visit with kids, as there is a fun playground and wide-open lawn children can play on.

Cavender Creek’s tasting room is open seven days a week for visitors to enjoy a wine tasting or wine by the glass or bottle.

They also serve several other drinks, including wine slushies, cocktails, sangrias, mocktails, craft beers , and soft drinks.

READ MORE: The 20 Best Places to Celebrate Christmas in Atlanta GA

2. Frogtown Cellars

700 Ridge Point Dr, Dahlonega GA • 706-865-0687

Located on the “Dahlonega Plateau,” Frogtown Cellars is a 57-acre vineyard and winery that was founded in 1998 by Craig and Cydney Kritzer.

In order to take advantage of the area’s unique terrain, the winery was specifically constructed as a tri-level gravity flow GA winery.

The vineyards boast over 20,000 individual grapevines, including 25 different wine grape varieties across the estate’s 44 acres.

Wines produced at Frogtown Cellars are highly acclaimed, having won four consecutive double-Gold Medals at the 2016 San Francisco International Wine Competition and a number of other awards.

At Frogtown you can find a variety of red and white wines, along with Frogtown California Blends like the 2012 Convergence.

Popular whites include the 2015 Inclination, 2015 Chardonnay, and the 2015 MRV (a blend of their three Rhone Valley white wine grapes).

Popular reds include the 2013 Sangiovese and the Oglethorpe Red (a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Merlot).

Tours of Frogtown Cellars are not currently being offered.

At the tasting room, there is indoor and outdoor seating where you can sip on delicious wines with breathtaking overlooks of the vineyards and beautiful mountains .

You can also enjoy paninis, hand-crafted pizzas, and charcuterie trays at their Italian Bistro, where they serve lunch, dinner, and Sunday brunch.

READ MORE:  The 7 Best Restaurants in Dahlonega GA for Foodies

3. Kaya Vineyard and Winery

5400 Town Creek Road, Dahlonega GA • 706-219-3514

Considering it was built on a ridge at 1,600 feet of elevation, this Dahlonega Winery has some of the most breathtaking panoramic views of the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains .

The vineyards you’ll see are planted with classic European, Italian, and American varietals.

All of the grapes are hand-harvested and processed in an on-site facility, which the Werkheiser family rightfully calls “the art of wine.”

Some of the vineyard’s most popular wines include their Chardonnay (Kaya grows the largest crop of Chardonnay in the state of Georgia ), Trifecta Red Blend, and Rosé.

If you’re looking for something a little sweeter, they also have sweet wines like Blue Truck Blush and Touriga Dulce, which pair great with a dessert.

While there are no formal tours being offered, you are encouraged to explore the area and take in the incredible views.

Virtual tours of the vineyards, tasting rooms, patio, and cottages are offered on their official website.

The tasting room is open Tuesday through Saturday from 11am to 5pm, and Sunday from 12:30pm to 5pm.

You can choose five wines from the wine list to enjoy for $25, and no reservations are required.

READ MORE:  The 15 Best Cabin Rentals in Dahlonega GA

4. Wolf Mountain Vineyards & Winery

180 Wolf Mountain Trail, Dahlonega GA • 706-867-9862

Often compared to the wineries in Napa, the Wolf Mountains Vineyard & Winery is one of the most popular Dahlonega wineries.

Run by the Boegner family, it was established in 1999 and modeled after a raised Craftsman-style cottage.

The vineyard is located at a 1,800-foot elevation and has 10,000 hand-planted vines that produce some truly exquisite wines.

Their award-winning estate wines include dry whites such as their Private Reserve Chardonnay and Plentitude (a unique blend of Chardonnay and Viognier).

You can also try semi-sweet and port wines, like the WMV Demi-Sec and Deliciex, along with dry rosé and red wines such as Sunset Rosé, Coupage, and Claret.

They even have a selection of Méthode Champenoise sparkling wines, like their Syrah Brut and Brut Natural Cuvée René.

Guided tours are typically available here, but have been postponed until further notice due to COVID-19.

Tastings are available on a first-come, first-served basis for eight or fewer guests. For groups any larger, advance reservations are required.

Just off of the tasting room there’s an open-air veranda and waterfall terrace, where you can enjoy the delicious wines and take in the stunning scenic vistas.  

READ MORE:  101+ Things to Do in North Georgia

5. Montaluce Winery & Restaurant

501 Hightower Church Road, Dahlonega GA • 706-867-4060

Easily making it onto the list as one of the best wineries in Dahlonega, Montaluce Winery combines wine, food (with two restaurants ), special events, and gorgeous scenery.

At Montaluce, they operate with the belief that extravagance isn’t needed when it comes to making quality wine, but rather hard-working people who are dedicated to the craft.

Red wine drinkers will enjoy the 2018 Sangiovese, NV Centurio, 2018 Malbec, and the NV Dolce Ross, a sweet red with hints of cherry and anise.

If you’re more of a white wine drinker, opt for the 2019 Tramoto, 2019 Chardonnay, or 2019 Dolce.

For special occasions, they also have sparkling wines like the Bottega Oro Prosecco and Franciacorta.

Deluxe 2-3 hour private tours are offered for groups of 5 or less. During these tours, a Sommelier will guide you through the winery and vineyards.

After the guided tour , you can enjoy a six-pour wine tasting with cheese and charcuterie pairings.

There also offer guided wine hikes through the hiking trails , vineyards, and the headwaters of the Etowah River. After the hike, you’ll be treated to a five-pour tasting.

This popular Dahlonega winery offers both indoor and outdoor tastings, where you’ll be guided through a flight of Montaluce’s hand-crafted wines.

As an added bonus, each wine tasting comes with a free collectible tasting glass.

READ MORE:  The Best 15 Hiking Trails in the Chattahoochee National Forest

6. Three Sisters Vineyards

439 Vineyard Way, Dahlonega GA • 706-865-9463

Sharon and Doug Paul began planning out Three Sisters Vineyards in 1995, after purchasing 184 acres of property about 10 miles from Downtown Dahlonega.

They named it Three Sisters Vineyards after being inspired by the incredible view of Three Sisters Mountain to the West.

It was the first family farm winery in Dahlonega , and also the oldest continuously operated vineyard and winery on the Dahlonega Plateau.

Popular red wines here include the Three Sisters Vineyards Cynthiana, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Cab Franc-Merlot (a 53% Cabernet Franc and 47% Merlot blend).

Some of their best white wines are the Pinot Blanc, Chardonnay, Vidal Blanc, and Chestatee White. For a more unique taste, try the Hula Hala-Kahiki, a fruity pineapple-infused Chardonnay.

There are also a number of sparkling and dessert wines to sample, including the Georgia Cuveé Rosé and Dahlonega Gold (an “Ice-style” dessert wine).

Tours of Three Sisters Winery are not currently offered. However, if you’re looking to host an event or have a wedding on the property, tours are available by reservation 7 days a week.

Walk-in tastings for groups of four or less are offered on the outside patio.

The tastings include a flight of four wines of your choice for $25.

READ MORE: The Best Christmas Lights in Atlanta & North Georgia

7. Accent Cellars

215 Auraria Road, Dahlonega GA • 706-867-0123

Accent Cellars is a family-owned business founded on the principle of bringing people together with friends and family to have a great experience.

Their goal is to celebrate the relationship between man and nature through hand-crafted wines made with fruit sourced from farms in Georgia and beyond.

Popular white wines here include their Chardonnay, Chenin Blanc, Blanc du Bois, 2018 Dry Riesling, and 2019 Sauvignon Blanc.

Red wine drinkers will enjoy the Grenache, Pinot Noir, Syrah, and Underdog.

For something more unique, try Wanderlust, which is a Georgia apple “port” wine made with locally grown apples from Mercier Orchards in Blue Ridge GA .

Tours  

Tours of Accent Cellars are not currently available, but they host a variety of events throughout the year, including art classes and comedy nights. Check the official website for specific dates.

Accent Cellars wine tastings are offered seven days a week. Reservations are only required on the weekends , or if your party exceeds five people.

Standard tastings range from $20 to $24.

They also have the Winemaker’s Reserve Tasting, which is an intimate experience hosted by owner/ winemaker Tyler Barnes.

You’ll get one-on-one access to Barnes and learn more about the intricacies of the winemaking process.

READ MORE:  The Top 10 Treehouse Rentals in the Georgia Mountains

8. Dahlonega Resort & Vineyard

400 Blueberry Hill, Dahlonega GA • 706-865-7678

Opened as a small bed and breakfast in the mid-90s, the Dahlonega Resort & Vineyard has grown into a full-scale getaway in the North Georgia Mountains .

The peaceful retreat is set in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains , providing one of the area’s most scenic places to relax and “get away from it all.”

Along with lodging (an inn and rental cabins ), they also have incredible dining options. Their chefs and winemakers work together to pair Georgia wines and dishes to give you a unique culinary experience.

The sister property of Kaya Vineyard & Winery produces all the wines you will find at this lovely resort .

Some of the best wines include the Twisted Pinot Noir, Twisted Reserve Merlot, Lot 950 Red Blend, Pinot Noir, Twisted Cabernet Franc, and Twisted Malbec.

Official tours of the grounds are not available, but you’re welcome to explore the area. There’s a small network of hiking trails you can follow through the woods and across meadows spotted with wildflowers .

You can relax and experience an educational wine tasting in the outdoor Twisted Wine Garden.

There’s also a pavilion overlooking the garden where you can enjoy the wine, eat some snacks, and soak in the spectacular views. – by Christina Maggitas; lead image via Canva

We encourage anyone who loves the Blue Ridge region to learn about the  Leave No Trace   principles of responsible environmental stewardship. 

Stay on marked trails, take only pictures, pack out your trash, and be considerate of others who share the trails and parks you explore. 

Remember that waterfalls and rocky summits can be dangerous. Never try to climb waterfalls or get close to a ledge to get a selfie.

When you're exploring the wilderness, it's better to be safe than to be a statistic!

Christina Maggitas

Growing up in rural south Georgia, Christina Maggitas developed a love for nature at a young age and spent the majority of her formative years outdoors. Since visiting the Great Smoky Mountains with her family as a child, she has always admired the beauty of the Blue Ridge region and spends as much time as she can hiking in North Georgia. She has a passion for writing and storytelling, with the hopes of inspiring others to enjoy the great outdoors. Christina studied Journalism and Emerging Media at Kennesaw State University, and now works as the Travel Editor for US News & World Report.

Montaluce Experiences

From festivals to special dinner events, we always have new and exciting things happening at Montaluce.

Click on the links below to view all of the exciting experiences you can enjoy at Montaluce!

Our wine hikes are offered Friday through Sunday at 10:00 AM. The best way to experience the beauty of North Georgia, as well as its growing wine culture.

You will be guided by a trained outdoor staff member in a tour of our winery,

a guided 1.8 mile intermediate hike along our nature trails, the headwaters of the

Etowah River and through our vineyard. 

 Wine hikes will finish with a five pour wine tasting in our beautiful sister restaurant,

Trattoria di Montaluce. 

*Please note that this is a hike, and appropriate hiking attire is required.*

$65 per person

$85 per person (private wine hike)

Fly Fishing

Our expert guides welcome guests of all skill levels, providing each person with a first-class experience from the moment the first cast is thrown.

Montaluce sits on over 400 acres along the headwaters

of the Etowah River.

Fly Fishing is offered Tuesday through Sunday for half day and full day experiences and we provide the necessary equipment for you.  

*Each guest is required to carry a current Georgia fishing license.*

Half Day: $250

Full Day: $350

*Tax and Tip are not included* ​

Montaluce Picnics

Embark on a luxurious picnic experience at Montaluce, where bohemian charm meets gourmet indulgence amidst stunning vineyard views. Relax on plush seating and savor a chef-curated menu featuring champagne, artisanal cheeses, and a variety of elegant sides. Perfect for any group size, Montaluce Picnics invites you to unwind and indulge in sophisticated comfort. Join us for a taste of the good life, al fresco.

Styled Shoot

Join us at Montaluce for a spectacular Italian Elegance Styled Shoot on May 28, 2024. Perfect for photographers looking to enhance their portfolios with stunning wedding scenes, bespoke stationery, bridal accessories, and more. Experience a day filled with creative photography opportunities—from daylight shots to elegant flash photos, including a mock proposal scene and equine grace. End the day with a celebratory wine gathering among fellow creatives.

Price Per Person: $500

CHEF'S TABLE

Our Chef's Table atmosphere is refined, yet friendly.

It is a unique experience that consists of five courses of farm-to-table style dishes. Prepared in front of you by our chef, Clint Johnston

Chef's Table is available on select days

Email: [email protected]

$200 Per Person

Ready to explore Dahlonega's haunted past?

Book your tour today.

Ghost Tours, Wine Tours, Bar Crawls,

And an escape room, looking for things to do this weekend visit our postcard-worthy town and stop by our porch for wine, ghosts, and great company. we offer wine tastings, historical ghost tours, wine tours, pub crawls, and a paranormal escape room in the heart of charming dahlonega. learn more about our tours below..

 COVID-19 NOTICE 

At this time, our office is open with modified hours and tour availability. Tour groups will be smaller than usual, and not all tours are available. We occasionally need to adjust tour times with short notice due to the limited availability of some tour stops. Our wine room is open, but we will serve only by the glass or bottle on the porch. Please call our office at 706.482.8795 for more information.

... and listen to the sounds of tortured souls, dragged to the hanging tree from the Dahlonega Courthouse.

Hear strange stories of ghostly goings-on in the Jones-Leibel House...

Wine, dine, explore

Our tours are the result of many hours of extensive historic and paranomal research and interviews.

Escape Room

A secret room has been discovered with a body. Your paranormal team has been called in to solve the mystery and help!

Wine Tasting

Discover local wine selections on our cozy porch with a stunning view!

RESERVE YOUR SPOT

Wine Tastings with a View

Enjoy a glass of crisp, delicious wine on our cozy porch! The Grapes and Ghosts Tasting Room represents the Georgia Winery in Ringgold, Georgia, established in 1983. Come discover the surprisingly flavorful wines of the Chattanooga Valley's oldest and most celebrated winery. The Georgia Winery is the first of its kind in Georgia and is the only winery in the Northwest Georgia area. Serving as a pioneer in the farm wine making industry, Georgia Winery has lead other vineyards and wineries to open across the state in recent years. Georgia Winery is a family-owned and operated facility producing award-winning fine wines. Specializing in capturing the fresh flavor of the fruit results in unique wines that explode with flavor and tantalizes taste buds across the nation.

26 Fun Things to Do in Dahlonega, Georgia

Are you looking for a fun and exciting things to do in Dahlonega, Georgia ?

Dahlonega is the quintessential small town in the foothills of North Georgia. With majestic views, unique shopping opportunities, great dining experiences, and plenty of outdoor activities, Dahlonega has it all.

So if you’re looking for a fun-filled getaway , these are the best things to do in Dahlonega , from visiting the historic square and tasting local wines to exploring the surrounding nature and finding one-of-a-kind antiques.

Best Things to Do in Dahlonega

1. dahlonega gold museum state historic site.

Dahlonega has its roots as a gold mining town. In fact, Dahlonega was the site of the first major Gold Rush in the U.S. in 1829. The name “Dahlonega” comes from a Cherokee word meaning “gold”.

So a visit to the Dahlonega Gold Museum State Historic Site is a must!

Located in the Old Lumpkin County Courthouse, which was built in 1836 and is one of the oldest courthouses in the state (and is one of the most haunted spots in Dahlonega ), this gold museum showcases the town’s rich history of gold mining.

You’ll learn about the methods used to mine for gold, the rise and decline of this Gold Rush boomtown, see gold coins minted at the Dahlonega Mint, and more.

2. Consolidated Gold Mine

The Consolidated Gold Mine is one of Dahlonega’s most famous gold mines. This is because it is the largest hard rock gold mine east of the Mississippi River.

This mine struck gold with several extremely large veins of quartz and gold. These veins combined to form one giant vein that was 22 feet thick. And it’s still one of the largest veins of quartz in the world that contains gold.

A tour of the old mine takes you 200 feet underground where you can see the mined “Glory Hole” vein and the tools miners used to extract the quartz and gold. After the tour, you can pan for gold and find tiny fleck through the hard work of sloshing sand and water in a pan.

3. Crisson Gold Mine

Crisson Gold Mine is Dahlonega’s other famous gold mine. It’s the oldest mining establishment in North Georgia, dating back to 1847.

Unlike at the Consolidated Gold Mine, you unfortunately don’t get to see the actual mine here. But you do get to see a lot of antique gold mining equipment. There’s even a 130-year-old stamp mill that they still operate occasionally to crush quartz.

This is a great place to pan for gold and gemstones. Anything you find is yours to keep. For the gemstones you find, they can make custom jewelry. I found a ruby and had it made into a necklace as the perfect souvenir to take home.

4. Historic Holly Theater

The Historic Holly Theater was a movie theater when it was built in 1948. But like a lot of old theaters, it had a period of decline and sat in ruin until the 1990s when the town worked to restore the building.

This gorgeous old theater is now a venue for plays and concerts, and even the occasional movie. It has breathed new life into Dahlonega’s arts community.

5. Chestatee Wildlife Preserve & Zoo

The Chestatee Wildlife Preserve & Zoo is a small zoo that takes in orphaned and rescued animals and gives them a new home.

Over 100 animals have come here after being orphaned, abused, illegally purchased, and living in other terrible conditions. They’ve found their forever home at Chestatee Wildlife Preserve, and you can visit them!

Their animals include bears, tigers, camels, and even a zedonk (half zebra, half donkey).

6. Shopping on the Square

Dahlonega Square is great for shopping local and supporting small businesses.

Laid out around the historic courthouse, the Square is easily walkable and is lined with local shops, cafes, and restaurants that make great use of their historic buildings. Be sure to read the plaques on the outside of the buildings to learn about their rich history!

You can shop at the Dahlonega General Store , plenty of antique malls, The Humble Candle , Paul Thomas Chocolates , Grateful Days , The Spice & Tea Exchange of Dahlonega , and Bleu Gallery , just to name a few.

7. Wine Tasting on the Square

Dahlonega is at the heart of Georgia’s wine country, so a wine tasting is a must. While you’re shopping on the Square, you can even do some wine tastings.

There are plenty of tasting rooms in Downtown Dahlonega offering wines from local vineyards all over the state of Georgia, and you can easily walk between each one.

Naturally Georgia , the Dahlonega Tasting Room , Grapes & Ghosts Tasting Room , Canvas and Cork Wine Tasting , Dahlonega Square Hotel Wine Tasting , and Taste Georgia Farm Wines are all great tasting rooms around Downtown Dahlonega.

8. Montaluce Winery & Restaurant

When you enter the long driveway to the Montaluce Winery and Restaurant , it’s like you’ve been transported to a wine tasting on the Tuscan countryside .

The restaurant is housed in a beautiful Italian-style villa with large windows showing off the view over the vineyards. They have an expansive patio area where you can sip wine as you enjoy the views.

9. Hike to Preacher’s Rock

Explore the beauty of the Appalachian Trail with a short, yet moderate day hike to Preacher’s Rock !

This two-mile round-trip starts from Woody Gap and gains altitude quickly, leading you to a rocky outcropping with spectacular mountain views – the perfect spot for a picnic . Once you reach the summit, you can relax as you take in the sights of this hidden gem in Dahlonega.

10. Frogtown Cellars

Frogtown Cellars is a cozy tasting room that overlooks their vineyards and a pond. Their wines are some of the most nationally recognized of the Dahlonega Plateau AVA .

Most of their wines are from their North Georgia vineyard, while their Muscadine wines are from their South Georgia vineyard.

They also have an Italian Bistro that serves lunch and snacks so you can dine while you sip.

11. Hike to DeSoto Falls

DeSoto Falls is actually two waterfalls on a short hike near Dahlonega in the Chattahoochee National Forest.

The Upper DeSoto Falls are 0.75 miles upstream of the trailhead, while the Lower DeSoto Falls are 0.25 miles downstream. The Upper falls has a nice viewing platform across its base where you can admire the waterfall.

The hike to both falls is only about a 2 mile round trip.

12. Kaya Vineyard & Winery

Kaya Vineyard & Winery is a slice of paradise with breathtaking mountain views and a 2,000 square-foot covered deck. You can savor the scenery alongside a glass of estate-grown, hand-harvested wine while you enjoy the views, farm-fresh food, and live music.

For a complete getaway experience, rent one of thei r four quaint and cozy cottages , each outfitted with modern amenities. Whether you’re looking for a romantic evening or a special occasion, Kaya provides the perfect spot for wine lovers to take in the view and the sip the sweet nectar of the vines.

Kaya wines are also offered at the Dahlonega Square Hotel Tasting Room and at the Dahlonega Resort & Vineyard .

13. Cavender Creek Vineyards

Cavender Creek Vineyards & Winery is a small winery with a rustic tasting room and log cabin, as well as a charming patrolling of donkeys. Relax and sip on a variety of wines from the vineyard’s covered terrace and patio, with views of the lush vineyard.

They produce some wines from their own vineyard, including Petit Manseng, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and several Norton blends. Other varietals they source from California, Washington, and New York. Their menu changes often so there will also be something new you can try.

You can even spend the night at the vineyards in their historic log cabin or their small winemaker’s cottage.

14. Catch a show at Canopy + The Roots

Canopy + The Roots is an all-in-one coffee bar / music venue / yoga studio. Grab a breakfast of Costa Rican, fresh-ground coffee and a homemade pastry and enjoy sitting in the social house lounge filled with floor to ceiling plants.

In their listening room, you can catch live performances of poetry, stand-up comedy, music concerts, gallery art shows, and film screenings. The glass yoga studio offers daily classes and workshops.

15. Kayak on the Chestatee River

Outdoor enthusiasts looking for a fun, adventurous activity to do in Dahlonega will love the Chestatee River! This river is a great place for kayaking, canoeing, or tubing.

Whether you’re a seasoned kayaker and have your own equipment, or just looking to rent, the area has plenty of options. Chestatee River Adventures and Appalachian Outfitters provide kayak rentals, guided trips, and even transportation. It’s so easy to get out on the water and explore.

16. University of North Georgia

The University of North Georgia Dahlonega Campus opened in 1873 in the old U.S. Mint building that had minted Dahlonega’s gold coins. The college’s first graduating class consisted on 3 men and 1 woman, making it the first Georgia public institution to award a degree to a woman.

It’s a short walk from Dahlonega Square to the UNG campus. The Price Memorial Hall with its gold-leafed steeple was built on the site of the Dahlonega Mint.

17. Auraria

Auraria is the Gold Rush’s forgotten ghost town. Just a few miles from Dahlonega, this was the real boomtown during the Gold rush, with thousands of miners moving in and turning a one-cabin town into a thriving settlement.

This boomtown in Auraria only lasted a short time before Dahlonega was determined to be a better spot to build on, and most of the community and businesses moved northward.

All that remains now are a few abandoned buildings, including the General Store that stayed open until 1997.

18. Dahlonega’s Mustering Grounds

Dahlonega’s Mustering Grounds is historical site is where soldiers would line up to be mustered, or be accounted as members of a military unit during the Civil War. It was also a rallying site for troops to show support during other conflicts within the U.S.

This historical marker is a little hidden. You’ll find it on North Grove Street just across from Smith Gold Nugget Lodge.

19. Dahlonega Butterfly Farm

The Dahlonega Butterfly Farm is a family-owned nature preserved that provides a safe place for butterflies and other pollinators to thrive.

Visit the 760 square foot butterfly conservatory, the containment room where the butterflies are born, and the outdoor caterpillar habitat to learn about the life-cycle of butterflies and the importance of pollinators.

Spend time in the butterfly garden, shop for local gifts for nature lovers, and buy a plant from their greenhouse to take home with you.

20. Lake Zwerner Trail

The Lake Zwerner Trail is a 3.2 mile loop around the Yahoola Creek Reservoir, the reservoir for the city’s drinking water. You’ll get both lake and mountain views on this moderately challenging hike.

Late evening and early morning are great times to take this hike: there won’t be a lot of people, and you have a good chance to see deer, hawks, and other wildlife.

21. Dicks Creek Falls

Dicks Creek Falls is one of the best waterfalls in Georgia. The entire hike is about 1.2 miles round trip.

The waterfall is located int he Chattahoochee National Forest. The falls tumble over a 60 foot bluff. This is a great hike any time of year, but it’s especially popular in summer for swimming and wading, and it’s a very picturesque spot in the fall when the leaves start to change color.

22. Mount Hope Cemetery

Mount Hope Cemetery is a pre-Civil War cemetery just a short walk from Dahlonega Square.

The cemetery is known for its “slot and tab” grave markers or “box” tombs, a type of grave that is unique to a small part of North Georgia, southeast Tennessee, and southwest North Carolina. The tombs were constructed by fitting together stone slabs with notches or tabs, creating a box that you put over the grave, while the body is still buried underground.

The style might have been used so that animals and livestock that roamed freely throughout the countryside wouldn’t trample over a person’s grave.

23. Big Creek Distilling Co.

Big Creek Distilling Co. is a distillery that specialize in making small-batch spirits like bourbon whiskey, gin, and more (like the occasional moonshine).

Their tasting room is open for tours, tastings, and cocktails. They have a large outdoor patio with fire pits and heaters, comfy seating, and cornhole. I had a couple fall cocktails from their seasonal menu (I’m a sucker for anything spiced apple), but they have classic cocktails as well.

24. Accent Cellars

Accent Cellars is Dahlonega’s urban winery that’s located just a couple minutes from the square.

They source grapes from all around Georgia, California, Washington, and Texas to create their craft wines. The tasting room is open daily for wine tastings.

25. Etowah Meadery

Etowah Meadery makes mead (a honey-based wine) and wine. They have both sparkling mead (which usually has a lower alcohol content) and traditional meads (usually with the higher alcohol content).

They have a lot of great flavors, and you can try so many different meads at their tasting room. I like their RB&B Mead best (raspberry, blueberry, and blackberry). They also have an adorable bear on their labels, so I love it even more.

26. Tesnatee River Winery & Meadery

Tesnatee River Winery & Meadery is a small boutique winery located in Cleveland, only about 20 minutes from Downtown Dahlonega. They started out as a honey farm before branching out into mead and wine.

When you do a tasting here, you have a choice of either wine or mead. You also get to try out all of their local honey varieties and see their bees.

Taking the trip outside of Dahlonega is worth it for this meadery. Every time we’re in the area, we have to stop by and pick up some of Kevin’s favorite honey (their Holly Honey).

Things to Do in Dahlonega Map

Ready to explore Dahlonega, Georgia? Use the map below to find all the best things to do.

I hope this guide helps you plan the perfect trip to Dahlonega, Georgia’s golden mountain town!

Getting Around Dahlonega

Dahlonega is really easy to get around.

If you’re staying on the Square, you’ll be within walking distance of most things you want to do. You could spend a whole weekend just exploring the shops, restaurants, and wine tastings on the square!

For everything else, you’ll need a car. Be sure to be extra careful on the winding North Georgia roads, especially at night. Keep an eye out for wildlife, especially deer, near dawn and near dusk.

If you want to do a winery tour, there are a few transportation options if you don’t want to drive yourself. North Georgia Wine Tours, Dahlonega Wine Tours, and DSH Transportation are popular choices. If you decide to drive yourself, please don’t drink and drive!

Dahlonega FAQ

Is dahlonega, georgia worth visiting.

Dahlonega is absolutely worth visiting if you’re interested in the outdoors, wineries, gold mining history, and local shopping.

What is Dahlonega, Georgia best known for?

Dahlonega is known for being the site of the first major U.S. Gold Rush. It’s also the heart of Georgia Wine Country.

What is the best time of year to go do Dahlonega?

Dahlonega is great in the fall when the mountain leaves change color and the weather gets cooler. Dahlonega is also amazing in the winter for a Hallmark-like experience.

How do you pronounce “Dahlonega”?

Dahlonega is pronounced “duh· laa ·nuh·guh”

Where to Stay in Dahlonega

Find the perfect place to rest your head on your visit to Dahlonega, from the top rated accommodations to unique stays you can’t get anywhere else.

• Where We Stayed: Barefoot Hills Hotel
• Top Hotel: The Smith House
• Great Value: The Dahlonega Square Hotel & Villas
• Unique Stay: Villa della Luna Tuscan Villa

Wrap Up: Fun Things to Do in Dahlonega

Dahlonega, Georgia is a hidden gem in the foothills of the North Georgia Mountains. Whether you are looking for a day of shopping, wine tasting, or outdoor activities, Dahlonega has something for everyone.

From historic gold mining sites and centuries-old courthouses to charming wineries and a one-of-a-kind butterfly sanctuary, Dahlonega won’t disappoint.

So, if you’re looking for a fun getaway destination, explore this treasure trove of experiences in Dahlonega.

More Dahlonega Tips

See why Dahlonega is golden! Check out these other Dahlonega itineraries:

• Barefoot Hills Hotel Review: Where to Stay in Dahlonega, Georgia
• A Weekend Getaway Guide to Dahlonega, Georgia
• A Romantic Mystery Weekend in Dahlonega, Georgia
• Top North Georgia Wineries for a Weekend Getaway
• Things To Do on a Day Trip to the North Georgia Mountains
• These Tiny Homes in Dahlonega are the Perfect Romantic Retreat

Ready to visit Dahlonega, Georgia? Plan your trip with these tips.

• Book your flight:  Find the cheapest flights using  Skyscanner , my favorite flight search engine.
• Find accommodation: You can find top cabin rentals in Dahlonega using VRBO.
• Get packing:  Make sure you’ve packed everything you need with my packing list resources .
• Explore Dahlonega in a New Way: Enjoy a Mystery Weekend in Dahlonega to discover more of the town.

What are your favorite things to do in Dahlonega, Georgia? Let me know in the comments!