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You may be wondering which celebrities have owned a Ford Mustang. There are lots, but here are four names you will probably recognize and some information about their beloved Ford Mustangs. Jay Leno Jay Leno is known for his love of cars. He has an extensive collection, which happens to include a 1965 Shelby Mustang GT 350. The car is #120 out of 562 models that were made in 1965. The car is mostly in its original condition, but modifications made to the vehicle include two pod gauges, which were for safety, as well as a transmission change. Patrick Dempsey Patrick Dempsey is said to love Mustangs. He raced a Mustang FR500C in the Grand-AM Road Racing KONI series in 2007 and also owned a 1965 Ford Mustang Coupe, which he sold in 2016. The Mustang had a supercharged 4.6-liter Cobra Engine that hit 550 horsepower. The car also had a six-speed transmission with an interior that was completely customized. The interior included air conditioning, power windows, and a customized sound system. Dempsey's car was featured on the May 2008 cover of Mustang Monthly. more Bill Clinton Before becoming president, Bill Clinton owned a 1967 Mustang Convertible. The car was initially a present for President Clinton's brother, Roger Clinton, in 1972 from his stepfather, Jeff Dwire. Several years later, President Clinton purchased it from his brother.  When he was elected into office, he had to leave his car behind in Arkansas, where it is now in the Museum of Automobiles in Morrilton, Arkansas. The 1967 Mustang that President Clinton owned was ice blue with a white interior. It had simulated side vents and an automatic transmission. The engine was six-cylinder and had 120 horsepower.  The car had most of its original parts when President Clinton left it behind in Arkansas, except for a new Clarion stereo and equalizer, which had JVC speakers. The car also had a broken handle on the left side, which could only be opened from the inside. Tim Allen Tim Allen is also known for his love of Mustangs. He owned two different Mustangs. One was a 1968 Shelby GT 500 KR while the other was a 2008 Mustang. The 2008 Mustang was sold on eBay; it was a hyper-customized Mustang. This car could go from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 4.9 seconds, could reach a quarter mile in 12.4 seconds, and had a top speed of 184 miles per hour. The 1968 Shelby GT was worth about $70,000 and was one of only 318 cars built. The car was black, and Tim Allen restored the Mustang himself. These are just four of the many celebrities who drove Mustangs over the years. For more celebrities who drove Ford Mustangs, you can check out the article that gives you a list of Celebrity Mustang Owners. Whether celebrities choose these cars because of their style or power, you know that the Ford Mustang is a classic car that appeals to everyone.   Looking to get one of your own? Browse our selection and schedule your test drive today!   Image via Ford.com

Peaches are a lovely seasonal fruit but can be enjoyed year-round, especially when you're able to pick them up from your local farmers market or produce shop. Want to snag a peck or bushel of peaches near Dahlonega, Georgia? Here are four places where peaches are always fresh and ready for picking. Dahlonega Farmers Market Situated in Hancock Park, the Dahlonega Farmers Market is a local favorite among residents who want to get their fill of fresh peaches and produce. Vendors love to stock up on new and seasonal items, so there's always something interesting to find at this yearly event. You'll see everything from vegetables like bell peppers and squash to fruits like mixed berries and plums. You'll even notice a diverse selection of baked goods, canned jams and jellies, and decorative flowers. Peaches are very much on the menu as well, especially during this year's Thanksgiving Market on Nov. 20 where these lovely fruits will be sold in abundance. Otherwise, you can stop by the Dahlonega Farmers Market on Tuesdays from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. more Holland Produce About 31 miles northeast of Dahlonega is the Holland Produce Farmers Market in Clarkesville. The shop is open year-round and offers a variety of sweet and exquisite peaches, including South Carolina and Georgia varieties. Making a homemade dish and need to stock up on a few ingredients? Holland Produce sells goods such as Georgia vine-ripe tomatoes, russet potatoes, and romaine lettuce, too. They also have a nice selection of other fruits, including watermelons, cantaloupe, and Asian pears. Want to plan a trip the next time you're in town? Market hours are Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Jaemor Farms Head southeast of Dahlonega to the town of Alto and you'll find Jaemor Farms, a 500-acre property that's family-owned and operated with special care for the quality of their produce. You'll find an assortment of sweet fruits such as peaches, apples, berries, and watermelon; and vegetables like squash, corn, and zucchini. Need a fun activity the whole family can enjoy? Jaemor Farms hosts an annual Peach Festival in August where you can pick your own peaches by the peck or bushel. You'll also find an annual Strawberry Festival, an 8-acre corn maze, a petting zoo, and a seasonal pumpkin patch on the horizon. If interested, the farm is open Monday through Thursday from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Sunday from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. Mercier Orchards If you don't mind driving a bit further out into Blue Ridge, Mercier Orchards could be your next stop for a pack of fresh peaches. They're available in-season and are always ripe and ready to purchase. What's more, you can stop by throughout the year for seasonal u-pick events that include strawberries in May, peaches and blueberries in June, blackberries in July, and apples from August through November. Best of all, Mercier Orchards is open daily from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Are you looking to find the best peaches in and around Dahlonega? These four spots are sure to have exactly what you need. Image by plong via Flickr | CC BY 2.0 | Cropped from original

Did you know Dahlonega was home to an 1829 gold rush? Around 15,000 prospectors gathered in the Cherokee Nation in the hopes of striking it big with gold. While residents today likely won't attempt to pick and pan for real gold, that doesn't mean the opportunity to learn about mining is lost. Here are three places where you can educate yourself on the rich and fascinating history of Dahlonega's gold mining industry. Dahlonega Gold Museum Located inside the 1836 Lumpkin County Courthouse, the Dahlonega Gold Museum features everything from a gold-flecked brick frame, to 19th-century wooden chapels, to a vintage-styled theater showing a film on the history of gold in Dahlonega. The museum was opened on July 1, 1967, and its first curator was Madeleine K. Anthony, a woman often praised for her public service and contributions to the city. On Feb. 28, 2012, a video to honor her efforts as an active resident was dedicated at the museum. more Want to learn more? The Dahlonega Gold Museum is open daily for tours (with advance notice), and there's even a gift shop where you can purchase your own little treasures to take home with you. Authentic artifacts such as rare U.S. Branch Mint gold coins, gold nuggets, gold pans, and historic courtroom furnishings can all be found on display. The Smith House Gold Mine Shaft Back in 1895, Captain Frank Hall built what is known today as The Smith House Mine Shaft. He moved from Vermont to Dahlonega in 1868 to oversee the area's mining operations. During construction of the home, Hall struck gold when he discovered a 20-foot vertical-drop mine shaft in his basement. Wanting to earn more money by selling the home with a completed basement, Hall decided to cover the mine shaft with concrete, effectively sealing it off from the view of future owners. It was rediscovered in 2006 during a renovation project by then-owners Fred and Thelma Welch. The home also served as a boarding house in 1922, so many personal belongings and interesting items were found during the mine shaft's excavation. These include various glass bottles, an inscribed lotion case belonging to Frank Hall's mother, a lovely china set belonging to Mrs. Smith, and a 1909 GE Mazda lightbulb still in working condition, all of which you can find on display. Consolidated Gold Mine Take a walking tour of this massive hard-rock gold mine and uncover the secrets of how prospectors once searched for gold in the mine's quartz veins. Founded in 1896, the Consolidated Gold Mine has been delighting Dahlonega residents for more than a century. Today, guests can take a 40-minute tour of the mine that will lead them 200 feet underground, visit the gift shop, and engage in hands-on activities. Pan for gold and store your findings in a souvenir bottle; mine for precious gems such as emerald, moonstone, and sapphire; and visit the Lapidary Studio to turn your gems into custom jewelry pieces. Want to learn more about Dahlonega's gold-mining history? Visit these top places with the perfect backdrop for your next gold adventure. Image via Pixabay | CC 0

The 2019 Ford Flex is a full-size sports utility vehicle that packs the nimble agility and flexibility of a compact car or midsize sedan. It also comes in three trim levels, so finding the right trim for your lifestyle shouldn't be a hassle. With plenty of performance perks and modern touches in tow, here's how the 2019 Ford Flex aims to impress. Exterior Design The SE, SEL, and Limited trims all boast a sleek and refined body style. For one, you get signature Flex badging on the hood, a monochromatic (or body-color) roof, and Bright dual exhaust tips. Amenities meant to improve utility include a reverse sensing system, intermittent speed-sensitive front windshield wipers, and a rear-window defroster with two-speed wiper and washer. Want an even more decked-out exterior? You can add optional accessories such as power-folding heated mirrors with blind-spot monitoring, a Multipanel Vista Roof, and a power liftgate to your final vehicle package. more Performance The 2019 Ford Flex is powered by a 3.5-liter Ti-VCT V-6 engine. It's capable of producing 287 horsepower and 254 pound-feet of torque. Available for the Limited trim is a 3.5-liter twin-turbo EcoBoost engine that gets 365 horsepower and 350 pound-feet of torque. Both units pack a similar six-speed automatic transmission under the hood. You might be wondering what else gives the Ford Flex its excellent handling on the road. That would be its electric power-assisted steering, its independent front and rear suspension system, and its AdvanceTrac with RSC (roll stability control) feature. It's also offered as a four-wheel-drive model but can be customized with Intelligent All-Wheel Drive in the SEL and Limited. Interior There's plenty of room for friends and family inside this full-size vehicle. In fact, it seats up to seven and offers second- and third-row bench seats that are easily adjustable to suit your passenger and cargo needs. Other practical amenities include a rear climate-control system, solar-tinted glass, and cargo area-mounted grocery bag hooks. Want even more? Consider adding an available wood-accented steering wheel with memory functions, heated and cooled front seats, and all-weather floor mats to the list. If you have the budget, Ford has the perfect accessories for any road trip. Technology Speaking of road trips, none would be as enjoyable without a modern multimedia hub and tech layout. Fortunately, the all-new Ford Flex has the upgrades you want. Consider adding a 12-speaker Sony audio system with cutting-edge sound quality; a navigation system with SiriusXM Travel Link for up-to-date weather conditions; and a SYNC 3 infotainment system with a touch screen, voice command, and smartphone integration to your tech blueprint. Safety There's nothing quite like a vehicle backed with top-notch safety systems to put your mind at ease. The 2019 Ford Flex meets these demands thanks to its front seat-mounted sideairbagss, perimeter anti-theft alarm, and child safety rear door locks. Have a bit of wiggle room in your budget? Features such as inflatable second-row outboard safety belts and collision warning with brake support are optional. Are you in the market for a full-size sports utility vehicle with agile precision and sporty flair? The 2019 Ford Flex is waiting for a test drive!   Image via Ford.com

For 2018, Ford introduced the new EcoSport to their crossover SUV lineup. This subcompact SUV sits below the Escape and offers drivers a small turning radius and a spirited ride. Ford based the EcoSport on the Fiesta, which is no longer available, and this little vehicle is the little engine that could. Here are some details about the 2018 Ford EcoSport. The Exterior The Ecosport comes in four different trim levels. These start with the S which has 16-inch alloy wheels and power accessories. Just a step up, the SE adds LED running lights and roof rails along with rear privacy glass, and it also gets a sunroof. The SES is the sporty model and comes with 17-inch wheels and a sport-tuned suspension. This trim also adds black exterior trim elements and automatic windshield wipers. At the top of the lineup, the Titanium trim adds 17-inch wheels to the SE, and it also comes with body-colored front and rear bumpers. The EcoSport has a side-hinged rear door that swings open for easy access to the back, and its tall stance makes it easy to get in and out. more The Engine All the trims except for the SES get a 1.0-liter turbo three-cylinder engine that generates 123 horsepower and 125 pound-feet of torque. The SES comes with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder which is also an available option for the other three trims. This engine produces 166 horsepower and 149 pound-feet of torque. You'll get a six-speed automatic transmission no matter which engine you choose. The Technology While the entry-level S trim comes modestly equipped with technology, just a step up to the SE will get you some added equipment such as a 6.5-inch touch-screen display and the Sync 3 infotainment system. Add the Convenience package, and the touch screen is even larger and it adds a seven-speaker stereo system along with a 110-volt power outlet. The Titanium trim upgrades the technology again with a 10-speaker Bang & Olufsen stereo and HD radio. Safety The Ford EcoSport comes standard with a rearview camera, and if you choose the SE, it adds rear parking sensors. The SE with the Convenience Package adds a blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert. The Convenience Package comes standard on both the SES and the Titanium. The Interior Inside, this little compact has comfortable seats with a height-adjustable feature in the front. In the back, there are 20.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, and with a 60/40 split, it's easy to customize the amount of passenger and cargo space. Fold both the seat backs down and it opens up some extra room. Ford also offers the Cold Weather package for all trims except the S, and this adds a heated steering wheel, heated mirrors, and a keyless entry pad along with remote engine start. The 2018 Ford EcoSport is the little engine that could. Its small size and peppy engine make it a great choice for urban driving, and it has just the right amount of space for zipping around town.   Photo via Ford.com

Blues music has its own unique sound and is always full of emotion. Atlanta is a great city to hear the blues live, whether it is a performance by a local band or a more well-known musician. Make sure to check out these places when you want to get a bit of soul in Atlanta. Blind Willie's Blind Willie's is probably one of the most well-known blues bars in the Atlanta area. The club gets its name from the legendary blues and ragtime performer Blind Willie McTell. Blind Willie's has live music seven nights a week with sets featuring new and upcoming local bands along with some national favorites. Some of the performances you can catch here include James Armstrong, Bob Margolin, Delta Moon, and The Nighthawks. The menu at Willie's features the best dishes from Chicago, Memphis, and New Orleans with items such as Larry's red beans and rice, Jambalaya, and gumbo. Northside Tavern Northside Tavern might not look like much, but this dive bar is one of the best places to listen to blues music in the city. Each night the stage features some of the most talented musicians such as Mudcat, The Holiday Brothers, and Zydefunk. Customers voted Northside Tavern one of the top 10 dive bars in America and since 1972 artists have soulfully played their tunes on its stage. There is no cover during the week, but you can expect to pay about $10 to get in on the weekends. more Sweet Georgia's Juke Joint In downtown Atlanta, you'll find Sweet Georgia's Juke Joint. This place is huge and is both a restaurant and a music venue. There is live blues music every night of the week, and the restaurant features classic southern cuisine. Keep in mind that Sweet Georgia's charges a $5 entertainment fee if you want to sit at a table, and you need to order an entree while you sit and listen. You can also hear live music during Sunday brunch at Sweet Georgia's. Sit and relax on the weekend and enjoy bottomless mimosas, chicken and waffles, and grits along with the live music. Kat's Cafe Kat's Cafe in midtown is a great spot for a date night or a laid-back night out. There is live music most nights of the week, and the food is also delicious. There is open mic night on Thursday, so you can hear local musicians, and there is always a great mix of music ranging from some newer stuff to the classics. The crowd at Kat's is also eclectic, and since the venue splits into two halves, you can also head to the back if you want to get away from the music and watch your favorite sports. Kat's doesn't charge a cover fee, and they have free valet parking. Check out these blues bars and clubs for a night out with great music and a fun atmosphere. Whether you want a lively band and a big crowd or a small, relaxed atmosphere, you can find it right in Atlanta.   Photo via pixabay

Initially designed as a pony car, the Mustang did an epic crossover to muscle car, which cemented an already successful range for the Ford brand. But Ford didn't stop there, as the launch of the Shelby in 1965 made the Mustang a formidable opponent on the road and track. Discover why the 2018 Ford Mustang Shelby GT350 sizzles. It's Racetrack Ready Strip away everything that weighs a muscle car down and it instantly boosts its chances on the track. With the Shelby GT350R, drivers don't have the hassle of doing this themselves since Ford decided to release it track ready. This means no superfluous seating and gadgets. It also means that it's released with race equipment that can take the car directly to the track, such as the carbon fiber wheels. more It Has Performance in Mind In order for a car to be track ready, there are a number of things that need to take place under the hood. The generous V-8 engine gets things off to a good start as it provides that much-needed power on the track. Drivers can expect to reach up to 526 horsepower, which will create quite some competition. Although it does pretty well at the drag strip, it's the racetrack that's the Shelby's home ground. The Shelby Always Looks Top Dollar It's hard to miss a Mustang, especially when the driver decides to take on one of the more bold colors. The Mustang is meant to stand out, and with the unique features of the Shelby, a decent paint job is a must. Drivers have the option of three additional paint colors such as Kona Blue, Orange Fury, and Lead Foot Gray. Getting off the Mark Without Fuss Whether on the track or the on the road, there is nothing more frustrating than chugging away once it's time to go. The Shelby doesn't have this problem as it's fast off the mark, and with an 8200-RPM redline, shifting between the different gears won't slow it down along the straight either. The Shelby GT350 goes from 0-60 miles per hour in just 4.2 seconds and the GT350R in an impressive 3.9 seconds Drive It Home After the Race There's nothing worse for gearheads than having to load their muscle cars onto a flatbed after a race just to get home. With the Shelby GT350, drivers won't have to face this disappointment as it includes a Normal and Sports mode to ensure that drivers remain compliant on the highways. This is thanks to the MagneRide adaptive dampers that ensure compliance for more peace of mind. The lightweight yet strong chassis is perfect for both the track and the road. The GT350R takes things up a notch thanks to the Comfort mode that's added to the Sports and Normal. In this mode, drivers can expect a luxurious cruise to their destination Ford put a lot of work into the handling and braking capabilities of the Shelby and the benefits are felt off the track too. Not only is the 2018 Ford Mustang Shelby GT350 sizzling in terms of performance, but it has the looks to go with it too.   Photo via Ford.com

The wide variety of Atlanta neighborhoods means the city has many different atmospheres, cultures, and many different local hangouts. This city also has a large number of excellent restaurants with some that might not be as well known to the general public, but they are local favorites. Check out these places where you can eat like a local in Atlanta. The Varsity The Varsity in midtown has some of the best and cheapest chili cheese dogs in Atlanta. Customers have been getting their dogs here since 1928, and they are still as good as they were 90 years ago. Make sure to get the thick cut onion rings to go with the dog, and if you want to eat like a local, you can't leave without getting the signature frosted orange drink. You can also get excellent burgers and sandwiches at Varsity, and this place makes their own coleslaw fresh every day. more HomeGrown Want fresh local food? Head to HomeGrown in Cabbagetown. This place uses their Facebook page to show pictures of the veggies they will pick each day, and then you can go in to see what they've done with them. HomeGrown also uses local pork and chicken. This is the Atlanta place to go for a friendly atmosphere and good old southern comfort food. You can get dishes such as soft shell crab po'boys or sloppy Joes made from scratch, and if you really want something that feels like home, get the fried bologna sandwich. Ria's Bluebird Cafe Ria's Bluebird Cafe serves up breakfast and lunch and is a favorite with the locals. You can get a traditional southern breakfast here complete with grits, biscuits, and of course huevos rancheros. The atmosphere in this place is laid back and casual, with murals created by local artists on the walls. Pub 71 Pub 71 is an Irish pub owned by a local and is the place for just hanging back with friends and family while enjoying some good food and a drink. The Irish-themed bar and restaurant serve up homestyle food such as a smoked brisket sandwich, Pub 71 wings, chicken pot pie, and even shepherd's pie for a dish that tastes just like home. The taps also feature many of the usual favorites, along with some more unique choices such as New Holland Dragon's Milk and Sweetwater Festive Ale. No Mas! Cantina No Mas! is a staple in the Castleberry Hills area and serves up authentic Mexican dishes and tequila. This is the type of place where you are likely to see the owners sitting at the bar along with all of their guests. The décor in the restaurant makes you feel like you are sitting in Mexico, and the music makes you want to get up and dance. This is a great place to go with friends, on a date, or for a family dinner. Eat like a local at these Atlanta restaurants, and you are sure to get an excellent meal along with friendly service. Photo by Central Atlanta Progress via Flickr licensed under CC-BY 2.0 | Cropped from original

After a long hiatus, Ford revealed the resurrected Ranger pickup at January's North American International Auto Show in Detroit. Long sought-after for its versatility and medium size, the Ranger has been dominating the world since it left our shores in 2011. Let's discuss what's to love about the new world-trekking 2019 Ford Ranger. European T6 Design Quite similar to the beloved European T6 model, the Ranger is available in an FX2 extended twin- or an FX4 quad-cab body style and three trim levels: XL, XLT, and the lavish Lariat. With a single wheelbase, you'll get a 6-foot bed or a shorter, 5-foot one with the four-door SuperCrew. Ford used more steel than aluminum when constructing the Ranger, giving it the same reliable durability as their lineup of full-size trucks. Quite dynamic and sporty to look at, the offshore Ranger got a facelift just for us here in America. Ford added a new grille, a distinctive bumper, and twin hood accents with a bit of a front overhang. Available leather seating on the Lariat trim gives the new Ranger a classy feel and a sleek appearance, and it's more maneuverable than its big brother, the legendary F-150. more A Slew of Hot Features If you want more "off" in your "roading," then upgrade to the FX4 package. The ruggedly equipped Ranger features variable driving modes such as normal, grass, gravel, snow, mud, and sand, and the innovative Trail Control system that acts like cruise control for trekking through the wilderness. All terrain tires, heavy-duty steel bash and skid plates, off-road tuned dampers, and a locking rear differential round out FX4's cross-country amenities. An 8-inch touch-screen infotainment system is loaded with available Sync 3, and the standbys Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, plus Ford's new Alexa personal voice assistant and navigation. Opt for the FordPass Connect and plug-in wherever you roam with a 4G LTE in-vehicle Wi-Fi hotspot that delivers enough power to operate 10 devices. Best-In-Class Towing Power Hook up that boat or camper, and leave the world behind. The engineers at Ford are boasting all about the Ranger's best-in-class towing capacity, which means it has to exceed the Chevy Colorado's 7,700 pounds. Hardcore numbers aren't released yet. For added safety, Ford's handy Smart Trailer tow connector will alert drivers to any faulty wiring issues on the trailer. World-Class Performance Perhaps a bit of puzzling news coming out of Ford headquarters — the Ranger will only have one powertrain option. Interesting. Despite the success of the Ranger diesel overseas, America gets a direct-injected 2.3-liter four-cylinder EcoBoost engine paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. But never fear, this engine has been tried and tested for years under the hood of Ford's celebrated pony car. There is some good news with that surprise, though. Midsize trucks like the Ranger are becoming increasingly popular on our side of the pond due to improved fuel economy over larger sized pickups. The Ford Ranger is back to reclaim its place in mid-size pickup history. Keep a lookout for one at your local Ford showroom soon.   Photo via Ford.com

Looking for the perfect location to celebrate the Fourth of July with family and friends? Pack up your lawn chairs and blankets, and get ready to mark the anniversary of our nation's Declaration of Independence with all the festivities in Dahlonega, the site of the first major U.S. gold rush. Only an hour's drive north of Atlanta, for a full day of exciting family-fun activities and events for everyone, come on up. Firecracker 5K and Fun Run 5K starts at 8 a.m. Fun Run starts at 9 a.m. Start the festivities early with the 7th Annual Firecracker 5K and Fun Run. Take a scenic tour of historic downtown Dahlonega through winding roads and up gently sloping hills. The run starts in the downtown square in front of the Dahlonega Gold Museum located inside the oldest courthouse in Georgia. Race pass scenic Hancock Park, through shady, tree-lined neighborhood streets, and by many historic buildings. Cross the finish line just in time to enjoy the rest of our city's Independence Day celebration. Patriotic Ceremony Starts at 9:30 a.m. The patriotic city of Dahlonega is proud of our deep military heritage. Join us and show your support for America's freedom with this annual ritual. The gala kicks off at 9:30 a.m. with the singing of the national anthem, the presentation of Colors by Dahlonega's Junior ROTC, and a quick address from the keynote speaker. more Dahlonega Car Show 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Don't miss the Dahlonega Car Club Car Show. Travel back in time with over 150 fully restored classics, and experience the beauty and vintage styling of some of the finest cars in north Georgia. The cars are on display in the parking lot at Lumpkin's County Library. A $20 entrance fee for all cars showcased at the event benefits the county's DARE Program and local fire department. Proceeds purchase toys to help comfort young fire victims. Fourth of July Parade Begins at 11 a.m. The Dahlonega's Fourth of July parade is always a crowd-pleaser. Don't miss the patriotic-themed floats and entertainers as they cruise through town. The procession starts at Memorial Drive and circles through the city's historic square. After the spectacle, grab a bite to eat at one of Dahlonega's 18 restaurants and consider a nap in your hotel room before the big show. Dahlonega offers guests an excellent selection of charming lodging choices, such as a bed and breakfast like the Mountain Top Lodge or a family-friendly hotel like The Quality Inn. Whether you stay for a night or a week, discover restful accommodations and real southern hospitality that suits every fancy and budget. Grand Fireworks Display Starts at Dark Wrap up the day's festivities with Dahlonega's Fourth of July family fireworks celebration on the drill field at the University of North Georgia. Known for having one of the best fireworks displays in the state, bring your lawn chairs and blankets and spread out to watch the grand finale. This year's family-fun Independence Day celebration is bigger and better than ever before. Head up to Dahlonega and spend the day with us. Photo by ThoroughlyReviewed via Flickr licensed under CC BY 2.0 | Cropped from original

For nearly 30 years, the Ford Explorer topped the charts as America's family favorite vehicle and the country's best-selling SUV. The seven-passenger 2018 Explorer offers a rugged stance, tons of power, a roomy, upscale interior, and all-wheel drive. From the inside, outside, and under the hood, discover what makes the new Ford Explorer Platinum stand out from the crowd. Take the Road Less Traveled With four-wheel drive standard on every Explorer Platinum, what's stopping you from taking the road less traveled? Fear no trail with Ford's four terrain management driving modes that handle whatever you encounter from normal conditions, mud and ruts, sand and grass, gravel or snow. A maximum trailering capacity of 5,000 pounds with the companion trailer tow package is just right for that fishing boat or small camper. With safety technology like hill descent control, hit the rough country with confidence in your new Platinum. Performance You Demand Unleash 365 horsepower with the Explorer Platinum's twin turbo 3.5-liter V-6, alongside an eager six-speed automatic transmission. With excellent passing and pulling power, the Platinum has enough gusto to tackle most jobs you put to it. The Platinum won't break the bank at the pump either, earning a decent 22 mpg highway. The Explorer's taut suspension gives this big SUV impressive cornering agility and offers a balanced and comfortable feel with its 20-inch wheels. A smooth suspension makes the Platinum trim an ideal choice for a relaxing road trip. more Luxury Amenities You Love Platinum has long been a symbol of success, and this Explorer trim truly shines. Enjoy all the available advanced tech-based safety systems with Ford's Safe and Smart Package, including adaptive cruise control and cross traffic alerts. Ultrasonic sensors help drivers parallel park the Explorer, then safely pull out from parking spots. Never drop your packages or fumble for your key fob again with the new Platinum's liftgate. With just the wave of your foot under the rear bumper, the lift automatically opens or closes. Discover the latest connectivity and technology with Ford's Sync Connect, a voice-activated navigation system and onboard Wi-Fi hotspot. Experience premium sound from Sony's 500-watt 12-speaker system with subwoofer and Clear Phase and Live Acoustics functionality to enhance the quality of your music for a crisp, clean experience. That's right — your Platinum is a rolling rave. Refined Interior Highlights Have a seat in your new Explorer and take your adventures to a luxurious new level. Appreciate the Platinum's interior, loaded with real wood accents, premium quilted Nirvana leather upholstery, and a dual-panel moonroof. With a third-row, power folding 50/50 split bench seat, and generous cargo space of 80.7 cubic feet, there's room for whatever moves you. Striking Appearance Prepare to turn some heads with the Platinum's bold craftsmanship and unique satin-chrome finish. Run your eyes over a sporty liftgate spoiler and the striking chrome-plated quad exhaust tips. With its fresh new look, notice the dynamic grille and distinct, energy-efficient LED headlamps to light your way. Discover your next SUV: the 2018 Explorer Platinum. Stand out from the crowd, starting at $53,940.   Photo via Ford.com

When you need a peaceful setting to reconnect with nature, head up to Amicalola State Park, just an hour and a half drive north of Atlanta. It's the perfect recipe for a great escape that everyone will enjoy. Experience a Georgia adventure at Amicalola, and plan to spend the day or spend the night — and plan to play. Exciting Activities Discover an almost endless list of day and evening activities at Amicalola Falls State Park. Take a guided fitness hike or sit in on the GoPro camera class and expertly capture all your memories at the Park. Get your heart pumping with a thrilling tree-top zip line, then test your skill at 3-D archery. Grab the kids and go on a GPS scavenger hunt, then spend the evening gathered around the campfire toasting marshmallows. Learn to endure the wilderness using outdoor skills picked up at Survivalist Camp, and get up close and personal with native birds of prey such as owls, falcons, and hawks. more The Park Amicalola Park is 829 beautiful acres of outdoor mountain adventures just waiting to happen. It's no surprise Amicalola is the most popular park in the area. Named for the 729-foot falls, Amicalola, or Tumbling Waters as known to the Cherokee nation, is the tallest cascading waterfall this side of the Mississippi River. Wind through the park on miles of trails, including the 8-mile path to Springer Mountain that connects with the world-renowned Appalachian Trail. Fish for trout at the base of the trail or go geocaching. The park is open daily from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. To park you must have a $5 Georgia State Park Pass. Your leashed, four-legged pal is welcome too. Accommodations in Amicalola Amicalola State Park's lodge is more than just a place to lay your head — it's a true highland retreat. Experience a welcoming "Bed and Breakfast" feel with cozy charm and spectacular views from every room. Modern conveniences abound such as suites, loft rooms for the kids, and Wi-Fi. For those who want a bit more seclusion, discover unique cabins nestled in the mountain surrounding the lodge. Designed for a romantic weekend or for families traveling with kids, there are one, two, and three bedroom cabins equipped with a full kitchen that offer heat, air conditioning, and satellite TV. Guests that want a real outdoor adventure are invited to pitch their tent in the park's primitive camping sites near the waterfall. RV hookups are also available, and the sites are roomy enough to spread out. The Maple Restaurant Delight in contemporary buffet-style dining at the Maple Restaurant, open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily. Delight in homemade, traditional American and classic Southern favorites, such as surf and turf, and order an adult beverage off the drink menu. They offer an excellent selection of wine, beer, and spirits. Dinner usually ranges from $15.99 to $19.99, depending on the carte du jour. Time your meal with a sunset view. You won't be disappointed. Don't miss a chance to make wonderful, lasting memories when you spend the day and night at Amicalola State Park. Photo by IIIP Photo Archive via Flickr licensed under CC BY 2.0 | Cropped from original