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Even among the most avid of boaters, visiting the same spots again and again can quickly get boring. If you are in Dahlonega, GA and are in need of some fun new destinations to try, then you're in luck! We have compiled here our top picks for the best boating spots that are just a short drive away. 1. Lake Lanier's Laurel Park An easy option is the brief drive to Gainesville, GA, home to Lake Lanier's scenic Laurel Park. Featuring a 350-foot-long mega boat ramp and fishing tournament staging area, this park is guaranteed to be a win for any avid anglers who visit. Laurel Park also doubles as a great family-friendly destination, with paved walking trails, a Splash pad for the kids, and even a dog park for your canine companions. 2. Don Carter State Park Well worth a visit, this destination is Georgia's newest state park and is another conveniently located option in nearby Gainesville, GA. This park is an excellent option for boaters seeking a variety of experiences at the same location, as its available boat ramps offer access to both Lake Lanier and the nearby Chattahoochee River. During the summer, visitors can even spend some time cooling off on the lake's sandy swimming beach. more 3. Fort Yargo State Park Another quick option for a day trip is to visit Winder, GA, home to Fort Yargo State Park which is a must-see destination for any boaters in the area. The park's 260-acre lake is ideal for fishing and swimming, and also offers canoe, kayak, and paddleboard rentals from April thru October. For an additional adventure on your park visit, be sure to check out the lakeside log fort, originally built by settlers to the area in 1792. 4. Red Top Mountain State Park An easy weekend drive, this state park at Acworth's Lake Allatoona is an excellent choice for boaters who enjoy swimming, water skiing, or similar sports in their spare time. Visitors can bring their own boats, or use a rental option available from one of the nearby marinas. This makes the park an excellent option for beginner and expert boaters alike. 5. Tugaloo State Park Another top choice for your next day on the water, Tugaloo State Park is situated on Lake Hartwell in Lavonia, GA. Lake Hartwell promises plenty of adventures for any boaters who make the trip and is guaranteed to never run out of new places to explore on its more than 55,000 acres of water. This option is especially appealing for anglers who enjoy fishing for the lake's largemouth bass and other plentiful sportfish species. A perfect weekend on the water is just a quick drive away from Dahlonega. Your whole family will want to load up your boat and head straight there, and thankfully your Ford F-150 can handle the load! Stop by Chestatee Ford to check out our current inventory and see all of the F-150's relentlessly tough features for yourself.

Dahlonega, GA has plenty of Asian restaurants to keep you satisfied when you are driving around town in your new Ford Explorer from Chestatee Ford. With everything from sushi, ramen, and even hibachi, here are some of our favorites. So grab your keys and check out these 5 restaurants near Dahlonega today! Hoka Hoka If you're looking for sushi, Hoka Hoka is the place to go. With 40 different sushi rolls, they have plenty of options to choose from. Aside from sushi, they also offer Chinese food and is one of the few places in town where you can find Thai food. With plenty of parking for your new Ford Explorer and a cheery dining room, Hoka Hoka is a great choice for both dine-in and take-out. more Zen Ramen & Bento Zen Ramen & Bento is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. They offer several types of ramen and bento boxes, but what people really love about Zen Ramen is its authentic Asian drinks. You can't go wrong with their selection of boba tea, green tea, and Japanese soda. Adults of legal drinking age can try some sake or Japanese beer. Be sure to drink responsibly and with moderation, and please don't drink and drive. Magic Wok Chinese Restaurant Magic Wok is another great option for both dine-in and takeout. Since it's located near Walmart, it's easy to grab dinner on your way home from running errands in your new Ford Explorer, and save yourself the trouble of having to cook dinner. Magic Wok has all your Chinese food favorites, like general Tso's chicken, fried rice, and spring rolls. To get the most bang for your buck, try the Pu Pu platter. Ichiro Hibachi Express Ichiro Hibachi Express is also conveniently located so you can pick up dinner on the drive home. Despite having Hibachi in the name, Ichiro Hibachi offers way more than just hibachi. From deep-fried sushi rolls to stir-fried noodles and bento boxes, they have something for everyone. Be sure to try the hibachi lunch special, it's a fan favorite. New China Buffet If you're looking for a low-key restaurant to take the whole family, then New China Buffet is the place to go. The extensive menu ensures even the pickiest eaters will find something they love. Seafood lovers will have plenty of options, but if you want the real Chinese seafood experience, try the seafood delight. For families, the happy family special is an affordable option that includes a bit of everything, including lobster! When driving around Dahlonega in your new Ford Explorer from Chestatee Ford, you have plenty of options for places to grab a meal. The best part is that you don't have to worry about sneaking a bite in your new car on the way home, Ford's ActiveX seating material is durable and stain resistant, so any spills are easy to clean up. Visit Chestatee Ford in Dahlonega today and be in a new Ford Explorer in no time!

The mountains of north Georgia are beautiful, and there is nothing better than an afternoon drive through this scenic and unique landscape. Fortunately, the 2022 Ford Explorer is great for exploration and has plenty of space to take everyone along for the adventure. There are many great places to drive to near Dahlonega, GA. 1. Vogel State Park The 38-minute drive to Vogel State Park is both scenic and exciting. Blood Mountain has plenty of winding curves and extremely steep drop-offs, but the trip is well worth it. There are plenty of cool spots to explore along the way. When you finally arrive, you are sure to have a great time. It's only $5 a day for parking, and there are many fun activities that you can enjoy at the park. Visitors can rent a boat and paddle around the lake. When the weather is warm, there's a designated swimming area where guests can cool off and enjoy the water. There is also a mini-golf course, a gift shop, and many trails to explore. The backdrop of the surrounding nature reflecting off the lake is breathtaking in all seasons. more 2. Helen Another great spot you can drive to is the town of Helen, which is about a 37-minute drive from Dahlonega. Helen is a cute little Bavarian-style town that attracts many people throughout the year. Here you will find a variety of shops and restaurants. There is also tubing on the river, a mountain rollercoaster, ziplines, and more. You could easily park and spend an entire day just walking around town, but if you find yourself growing bored, you could also check out Unicoi State Park. This park offers visitors plenty of adventure, with trails to explore and beautiful scenery to enjoy, and it is also in Helen. 3. North Georgia Drive-Through Safari Park If you want your experience to be more about driving, you should check out the drive-through safari at North Georgia Wildlife and Safari Park. From here, you can tour animal habitats and feed the animals treats from the comfort of your vehicle. The drive-through safari is only $14 per person, which makes it an affordable and unique activity to enjoy. The park offers a variety of other experiences as well, and the prices vary depending on the ones you choose. There are even special events and programs for guests to enjoy. The organization behind the park is committed to conservation efforts, so you know your money is going toward quality care for the animals. If you want to spend a fun-filled day learning about animals, you should check it out. We hope you enjoy driving to these fun locations. If you're looking for a quality vehicle to get you around, then we would love to help. Contact us today at Chestatee Ford in Dahlonega, where we can help you find a great car that will make you want to drive around more often. We hope to see you soon!

Dahlonega, GA, is a small city in the Blue Ridge Mountains' foothills with many scenic sites, historical landmarks, and charming vineyards. Similarly, it has many beautiful spots for a romantic date, whether you want to celebrate an anniversary or schedule your first date. Here are some great date night ideas within a short drive of Dahlonega. Consolidated Gold Mine Spend an evening with your partner exploring the fantastic historical gold mines from the 1800s. The Consolidated Gold Mine is a historic landmark built in 1875 and spans 92 acres. The mine was officially closed in 1906 and is now one of the city's most popular tourist attractions. Take a 40-minute tour 200 feet below the surface with your significant other, including listening to stories of miners and learning about the mine's significance in the Georgia Gold Rush. On your tour, you can also try panning for gemstones and gold. more Gibbs Garden Pack a picnic basket in your spacious 2018 Chevrolet Equinox and drive to Gibbs Garden for a memorable picnic in a scenic and tranquil environment. The Gibbs Garden is an award-winning, world-class facility with over 16 themed gardens spanning over 300 acres. The garden's beautiful and colorful flowers provide a picturesque backdrop, so bring your camera and enjoy a fun photo session with your loved one. Gibbs Garden has several themed sections scattered throughout the garden, as well as a cozy café, stunning sculptures, and gleaming ponds. There is a grand manor with a beautiful gazebo where you can enjoy a picnic meal while overlooking the garden. Wolf Mountain Vineyard Walk arm in arm with your significant other at Wolf Mountain Vineyard, sampling various grapes. Wolf Mountain Vineyard is a family-run winery located in the North Georgia Mountains. The vineyards were planted in 2000, and in 2003 the winery produced its first wine using its grapes. The vineyard has grown tremendously since then, winning many awards for its distinctive fine wine. Spend an evening wine tasting and perusing 19th-century French wine artifacts. Please drink responsibly and in moderation. The vineyard is open from Thursday to Saturday, and visitors can enjoy a private tasting. The Historic Holly Theatre The Historic Holly Theatre is an excellent venue for watching Broadway shows, movies, and live musical performances. The 1948 movie house is an essential landmark on the National Register of Historic Places. The Historic Holly Theatre has been in operation for over 70 years, but the theatre was repurposed into a community theatre in the last two decades. No seat at the Holly is more than seventy feet from the stage so that you won't miss any action. The relaxed, informal atmosphere of the theater makes it a great place to go on a date, sip a glass of wine and watch a show. Visit the above locations and make the necessary arrangements as you plan your romantic date. Visit us at Chestatee Ford for all of your automotive needs. We also have fantastic deals and discounts on various vehicles.

If you're searching for a great bargain, you'll discover fantastic thrift stores when you visit Dahlonega, GA, and the surrounding area in your Ford Explorer. You'll find great antiques, vintage clothing, furniture, and unique collectibles for your home or office. 1. Southern Finds Thrift Store This local thrift shop offers fantastic service and great bargains on small appliances, household items, clothing, shoes, children's toys, and more. Southern Finds Thrift Store supports the local community and families in the area. You'll enjoy this well-organized shop, which offers fantastic deals for a newly renovated home or office space. more 2. Shirl's Place Shirl's Place is a wonderful spot to find incredible fashions, including vintage and modern styles, accessories, and footwear. You'll also find a great selection of children's toys, clothing, furniture, kitchenware, dishes, and seasonal decor. This fantastic shop also features formal dresses and outfits for special occasions at an affordable price. You'll find everything you need in the well-maintained and organized store, open six days a week, Monday through Saturday. It's a terrific place to find unique gift items, collectibles, and decorative items for family, friends, or your home. 3. No. 3 Vintage If you're looking for unique, stylish antiques and vintage themes for your newly renovated home or cottage, you'll love No. 3 Vintage. This shop features an exceptional selection of high-quality items, including local art, candles, soap, jewelry, furnishings, clothing, accessories, and collectibles. No. 3 Vintage opened nearly two decades ago and provides a cozy shopping atmosphere with friendly staff and fantastic displays. Every item in this shop is hand-picked by the owner to provide an impressive variety of beautiful items, including regular new arrivals and well-designed displays. 4. Nina's Helping Hand This local gem features a wonderful variety of quality items such as clothing, accessories, housewares, and decorative items for your home. Nina's Helping Hand is a favorite shop among residents in the neighborhood, with friendly service and great prices. You'll find an impressive selection of goods in this small shop, open from Monday through Saturday. Nina's Helping Hand offers organized displays, so you can easily find all the items you need. 5. Gold City Antique Gallery Gold City Antique Gallery is an excellent place to find rare collectibles, antiques, and vintage decor. This shop offers an extensive selection of high-quality items, including numerous booths, artisans, one-of-a-kind gift items, and fantastic gift ideas. It's a great place to visit every time you visit Dahlonega, as there are always new items and unique finds when you shop. Gold City Antique Gallery is open seven days a week, and plenty of parking is available. When you drive through the Dahlonega area, you'll encounter fantastic shopping options in local vintage, bargain, and antique shops in and around town. Come see us at Chestatee Ford and learn about our fantastic showroom deals, financing options, and maintenance plans that fit every budget. We have an impressive inventory of new and pre-owned vehicles to suit your lifestyle and driving needs.

Dahlonega, GA has many great activities in the community. But one of the best parts about living in Dahlonega is the food! There are some great restaurants in and around Dahlonega that serve wonderful seafood entrees. Below are our top five picks for great seafood restaurants in and around the Dahlonega area. Bucket O' Shrimp For those who like to get hands-on at the dinner table, Bucket O' Shrimp is the only choice for seafood. This place is a local favorite. It's hard to miss, with its bright yellow exterior and big shrimp bucket sign. The menu consists of sandwiches with fried seafood inside them. You can also get seafood platters, which come with fries and hushpuppies. The shrimp are a customer favorite, but you can also choose scallops and fish fillets if you'd rather go for those instead. 19° North Seafood & Grill If you're looking for a great place to eat seafood in Dahlonega, look no further than 19° North Seafood & Grill. This family-owned restaurant is located on the south end of town, just off Highway 129. With an extensive menu that includes everything from crab legs and lobster tails to tripletail and lamb chops, there's something here for everyone. The service is friendly and attentive, and the prices are reasonable, especially considering that many dishes come with two sides. more Atlanta Highway Seafood Market Located just outside of town on Atlanta Highway, this market offers fresh seafood and every other kind of food imaginable. They have large tanks of live crawfish, crabs, and lobsters, as well as pre-cooked jumbo shrimp, lobster tails, and other delicacies. You can also find fresh fish fillets and steaks, including salmon and fillet of flounder. The selection at Atlanta Highway Seafood Market is incredible, but that's not even the best part! All their items are super affordable. If you want a great value and a fantastic selection, this is the place to go. Bourbon Street Grille Bourbon Street Grille specializes in grilled seafood and offers a variety of southern comfort food. This restaurant is dedicated to serving fresh, high-quality seafood. The owner himself is a fisherman who brings in his own catch of the day. Guests can enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of the dining room or the casual, come-as-you-are feel of the bar. Bourbon Street Grille is open for lunch and dinner service daily. Toccoa Riverside Restaurant Toccoa Riverside Restaurant is a one-of-a-kind restaurant that features fine dining with a casual atmosphere overlooking the beautiful Toccoa River. The restaurant offers wonderful food at affordable prices with homemade soups, gourmet salads, fresh seafood, and steaks prepared daily. Their desserts are also made fresh on premises every day. This is truly a great place to get away from it all! You can dine inside or out on their beautiful decks overlooking the river, where you can enjoy lunch or dinner with friends and family or just relax with a cocktail while you listen to the sounds of nature. If you are looking to get out, leave the city for a little bit, and enjoy some local cuisine all on the same day, you can't go wrong with these five restaurants. We offer a great selection of vehicles that will help you get to your destination comfortably, without any hassles. Stop by at Chestatee Ford and let our trained staff assist you.

The sandwich is the perfect meal. It's well-balanced, delicious, quick, and portable for on-the-run eating, and it comes in so many varieties. You could eat a different sandwich every day of the week. If you love sandwiches and are looking for some sandwich places in Dahlonega, GA to try, check out the list below. The Corner Kitchen When it comes to sandwich shops, taste is most important, but the quaint, storybook-like atmosphere in this shop is definitely a plus. You can grab a bite to go or have a seat in their beautifully designed, outdoor space surrounded by an array of gorgeous wildflowers. They aren't all about looks, though. They serve delicious sandwiches on fresh, locally-baked, bread that feature the very popular Boar's Head line of products. Catering is also available. The Picnic Cafe and Dessertery Sandwiches often incorporate the local culture, flavors, and attitude of a place. If you're looking for a sandwich that epitomizes Georgia, then you'll definitely want to put this shop on your list of places to check out. Their Georgia peach chicken sandwich deliciously represents the peach state. The sandwiches aren't the only things that are sweet. There's also an on-site dessertery with a menu spotlighting another Georgia favorite: the pecan. more Capers On the Square If the name didn't give it away, this shop is all about Mediterranean flavors. If you love Greek food, you'll love this place. Their Mahi sandwich is a crowd favorite and so are their flatbreads. Mediterranean food isn't always a big hit with little kids, but don't worry, Capers On the Square has a kid-friendly menu filled with the usual favorites like mac ‘n cheese, so it's the perfect spot for the whole family. North Georgia Barbeque If you're talking about sandwiches in Georgia, barbeque is going to enter the conversation at some point. Barbeque is king in the south and that makes barbeque sandwiches royalty. Stop by this shop for a variety of sandwiches made from their popular smoked meats. Their pig melt, which can best be described as a pulled pork meets grilled cheese is a local favorite. They also have many other southern favorites if you're looking for a little more than a sandwich. Rooster's Cafe Themed restaurants are so much fun. This shop takes the rooster theme and really runs with it. Many of the sandwiches on their menu, like the hen burger, refer to their mascot. This is a great, casual place for the entire family. The menu is reasonably priced and is broad enough to satisfy food adventurers and picky eaters alike. Their hand-cut fries pair well with any sandwich on the menu and they don't skimp on the portions, so make sure you bring a big appetite when you come. If you're driving around town, visit one of these great shops. If you're not driving around town because you don't have a car, let us change that for you. Stop by Chestatee Ford and test drive a new or used vehicle today.

If you're planning a drive through Dahlonega, GA, you'll find excellent dining, scenic attractions, and a great selection of local and craft beer. You'll discover some of the best breweries and enjoy your favorite cider, stout, or ale on your visit to town. 1. Dahlonega Brewery Dahlonega Brewery is one of the finest spots to enjoy locally crafted beers, a spacious patio, and live entertainment. This brewhouse offers an excellent selection of pilsners, stouts, ales, and mead to order in the tasting room, where you can relax with friends. Dahlonega Brewery uses the best quality hops and grains to craft excellent quality beer, with expert brewers involved through each stage in the process to ensure top results. more This spot offers generous space for private events and parties, featuring a scenic outdoor patio and yard, firepits, games, and more. It's a family-friendly venue for various special occasions, and dogs are welcome on the patio. Dahlonega Brewery is located on Morrison Moore Pkwy East, with plenty of parking and open year-round. Please drink responsibly. 2. Spirits Tavern Spirits Tavern offers a laid-back atmosphere specializing in serving locally crafted beers, cocktails, burgers, and light fare. You'll love the curated selection of beers and wine, with regular cocktail specials and a full menu of delicious food. It's the ideal place to enjoy dinner and drinks with friends over the weekend. This unique tavern and restaurant feature a rooftop vegetable garden, and you'll find the service is professional and friendly. 3. Gold City Growlers If you're in search of a fantastic place for local beer and wine, you'll want to visit Gold City Growlers. This unique pub features a bookstore with gifts and a cozy bar to enjoy your favorite drink. This local spot was established in 2014 and has become a top choice for local beer, with 20 brews available on rotation. It's a great venue to book a wine tasting event private party, and there are keg packages available for birthdays, anniversaries, and other special events. 4. Shenanigans Shenanigans is a wonderful place to enjoy traditional Irish plates, local beer, distilled spirits, and exceptional wines. You'll love the vibrant, friendly atmosphere featuring friendly staff, local microbrews, and signature dishes. This place is where you'll find the best beer selection in the area while savoring a delicious serving of battered cod with slaw, a burger, or seafood. There are vegetarian plates and kids' options available. This Dublin-inspired tavern offers historic decor with signature designs, a pet-friendly outdoor deck, and a covered patio. Shenanigans features live entertainment most days during the week, regular food and drink specials, and seasonal events throughout the year. You'll find excellent breweries, restaurants, and pubs offering exceptional microbrews, wines, and ales on your next drive through town. Come see us at Chestatee Ford and inquire about our fantastic inventory of new and pre-owned vehicles in our showroom today. We offer excellent deals for all your driving needs.

Looking to get out and learn about the Dahlonega, GA area's history? There are lots of great things to do. Make sure you visit the 4 best museums in the area. 1. Dahlonega Gold Museum Located in one of Georgia's oldest courthouse buildings still standing, the Dahlonega Gold Museum is a great place to visit if you're looking to learn a little more about the area's history of gold. Even before California's Gold Rush, the Dahlonega area was rich with gold and prospectors were no strangers to its riches. When you visit this museum, you'll get to see a range of artifacts from this area. You'll also be able to learn more about the building's interesting history as a courthouse. Check out the judge's chambers, and remember to visit the gift shop for a souvenir too. more 2. Folk Pottery Museum of Northeast Georgia If you're in the Dahlonega area and you're not afraid of a bit of a drive, then this museum is one that you're going to want to visit. Offering you plenty of lessons in pottery and the area's art history, you're going to love checking out the Folk Pottery Museum of Northeast Georgia. You'll get to see the work of some of the area's local artists, and the museum offers an interactive experience. There's also a playground for children to visit, and a large campus to walk around and explore. 3. The 1875 Chestatee River Diving Bell Early American diving technology might not be something that many people think about. But Lumpkin County locals know a thing or two about how strange and unique this old technology is. You can visit the 1875 Chestatee River Diving Bell to learn a little more about the area's history of diving. This outdoor exhibition offers visitors factual documentation on how diving would have worked during this era. Make sure that you visit the bell to learn about how it would have worked and the ways that its presence has affected the area. 4. Northeast Georgia History Center Looking to learn a little more about the Georgia area's history? If you're in Dahlonega and you feel like going for a drive, make sure you head down to Northeast George History Center. Explore the museum on your own, or join one of the tours. The museum offers plenty of interactive exhibits where you can learn a little about the cultural history of the area. They offer free admission on Family Days, and the museum is a fantastic place to bring the kids for an outing. There are also free digital programs available. If you're in the Dahlonega area, there are plenty of great museums to check out. Make sure you visit all four of these to learn all about the area's history. Since some of them are a bit of a drive away, you'll want to make sure you've got a good car. Visit Chestatee Ford to learn more about how we can help.

If you're looking for some fantastic Italian restaurants near Dahlonega, GA, you'll discover excellent eateries, authentic Italian cuisine, and takeout options on your next drive through town. 1. Gustavo's This Italian eatery is a fantastic place to enjoy various delicious meals, including pizzas, submarines, pasta dishes, salads, and more. All meals are prepared with fresh ingredients, including menu favorites such as parmesan meatballs, chicken florentine, and tasty appetizers. It's the perfect place to dine with family and friends. Gustavo's also offers vegetarian options. 2. Grape Vine's Casual Italian Dining Grape Vine's Casual Italian Dining is a beautiful place to enjoy a classy, casual atmosphere with your favorite authentic dishes. This fabulous restaurant features delicious, high-quality cuisine and traditional dishes, including penne, Italian sausage, lasagna, and chicken Pamplona. It's a fantastic place to dine when you're craving some of the best Italian entrees in the area. more 3. Your Pie Pizza Your Pie Pizza features a great selection of pizzas and Italian dishes, where you choose everything from the dough, cheese, sauce, and toppings. This eatery's menu offers excellent custom pies that cater to various dietary needs, including gluten-free, keto, and vegan options. You'll love the selection of microbrews and gelato. This local pizza chain features a kids' menu, takeout, and delivery options. Please drink responsibly. 4. Trattoria di Montaluce This Italian restaurant is a beautiful place to dine for your next special occasion and offers some of the best Italian comfort food and cocktails in the area. You'll love the ambiance of this dining space, with efficient, friendly staff and a fantastic wine selection. There are spectacular views to enjoy during your dining experience. Trattoria di Montaluce offers delivery and takeout options. Please do not drink and drive. 5. Charlie's Italian Restaurant Charlie's Italian Restaurant is a family-friendly place that offers fantastic pasta plates, freshly baked pies, and spectacular entrees. You'll love this restaurant's early-bird specials and its extensive menu of appetizers, gourmet pizzas, and full-course meals. There's catering available, including private group bookings for special occasions. 6. Little Rome This local gem is just a short drive from town in nearby Chatsworth, GA. Little Rome features a comfortable dining room with delicious comfort food options, including fettuccine alfredo, pizza, and lasagna. This family-owned eatery serves generous portions at a reasonable price, and takeout is available. 7. Mr. Edd's Pizza Plus Mr. Edd's Pizza Plus is a great casual eatery that offers all your favorite comfort foods, including freshly baked pies, traditional submarines, burgers, chicken, and pasta dishes. It's a terrific spot to order and pick up a tasty meal for the road or visit on your drive through town. This diner also features desserts, and delivery is available. It's the perfect place for the family, with great menu options and reasonable prices. You'll discover outstanding Italian cuisine and restaurants when you drive through Dahlonega. Visit us at Chestatee Ford and see what we have to offer you from our incredible showroom of new and pre-owned vehicles.

Are you a nature enthusiast in search of beautiful parks and outdoor spaces in and around Dahlonega? You'll discover unique spots for birdwatching, exploring wildlife, and hiking scenic trails on your next visit to Dahlonega, GA. more 1. Chestatee Wildlife Management Area This remarkable outdoor space features beautiful scenery and lots of opportunities to discover wildlife. It's a fantastic place for birding, hiking, and fishing. You'll find the forests, waterfalls, and lake access that are ideal for capturing some great pictures. Chestatee Wildlife Management Area features camping sites, areas designated for hunting, and picnic sites. It's a terrific place to discover many varieties of birds and habitats during your visit. 2. Amicalola Falls State Park Amicalola Falls State Park is located near Dawsonville, GA, and offers spectacular views of the North Georgia Mountains. It's close to the Appalachian Trail, where you'll find numerous birds, small animals, and natural beauty. Amicalola Falls is one of the tallest cascading waterfalls east of the Mississippi River. The nearby park's lodge is a terrific place to book your next family reunion or special event. 3. Dawson Forest Wildlife Management Area This beautiful wooded area is the ideal place to enjoy a wide range of wildlife and birds. Dawson Forest features lakes, picnic spots, and hiking trails to explore the natural wonders of this outdoor space. You'll find lots of activities to enjoy, including horseback riding, fishing, hunting, and geocaching. It's a beautiful place for primitive tent camping for the weekend with the family. You'll want to bring your binoculars for your next visit, where you'll see lots of birds. 4. Vogel State Park Vogel State Park is a fantastic place to enjoy hiking trails, a large 22-acre lake, and camping sites. It's the perfect place to visit on vacation or enjoy a weekend away from the city. You'll find a museum on-site and nature programs to provide lots of information about the state park, its wildlife, and history. It's also a popular place for birding and enjoying a wide range of activities year-round. 5. Smithgall Woods State Park Smithgall Woods State Park is one of the best places to bring your binoculars to observe many birds and local wildlife. You'll find lots of activities to explore during your visit to the park, including guided tours, hiking, archery, fishing, cycling, and geocaching. It's the perfect recreational space to spend an afternoon or camp for the weekend and explore the historical sites and the local museum at the park. Smithgall Woods State Park is perfect for visitors of all ages. 6. Brasstown Bald Visitors Center This park offers one of the highest peaks in Georgia, featuring spectacular 360-degree views to spot lots of natural beauty. You'll find lots of birds and wildlife along with the park's trail system. There are plenty of unique recreational spaces and parks ideal for spotting a wide range of local wildlife and birds. Contact us at Chestatee Ford and inquire about our impressive showroom deals today.   Image Courtesy of Pixabay

Sitting beside the lush Chattahoochee National Forest, in the foothills of the breathtaking Blue Ridge Mountains, the small, scenic town of Dahlonega, GA is a wonderful place for outdoor activities. This region of Georgia is a land of beautiful waterfalls, wildlife preserves, horseback riding, and rich old west history. Whatever kind of day trip you're looking for, you're in the right town. more Hiking in Chattahoochee National Forest This enormous, lush forest is the perfect place for a day or two of outdoor adventures. It's well-known as a hiker's paradise, with terrific trails that take you past thundering waterfalls, alongside glistening rivers, over rolling hills, and up onto high ridges with breathtaking views. This wild landscape set the scene for the first gold rush, and as you trek through it, you'll feel just as adventurous as those first hardy explorers. Feeding the Animals at Chestatee Wildlife Preserve and Zoo This wonderful home of predominantly rescued or orphaned animals is home to over 100 exotic and native species. Take the kids to feed the animals, and to marvel at cute bear cubs and tiger cubs. The organization is run mostly on donations, so be sure to bring along at least a little food to help out. Horse Riding with Dahlonega Carriage & Horse Rides Experience a taste of the old west from the first moment you arrive at this rustic 1800's-style riverside establishment when a horse-drawn wagon picks you up from the edge of the ranch. Here, you can roam the property's scenic trails on horseback, before stopping for a hearty home-cooked meal of steak and BBQ. There are other old-style western activities to try out at this characterful place, including horseshoe pitching and even gold panning. Kayaking with Chestatee River Adventures Float peacefully over the gorgeous river waters in an inflatable tube, or go on a glorious 2.5-mile kayaking journey upriver, guided by the friendly staff of this local company. The nearby waters are quiet and secluded, and you're likely to see all manner of wildlife as you paddle. In the river, there are bass, perch, and catfish aplenty. On the banks, you're likely to catch sight of turtles, deer, turkeys, blue herons, and more. Picking Fruit at Reece Orchards There's a great deal of family fun to be had at this large farm surrounded by gorgeous hilly vistas. You can pick apples to your heart's content. For the kids, there's also a giant farm slide, and even a petting zoo, to meet and feed the farm animals. Exploring with Monster Van Tours To be taken straight from downtown Dahlonega up into the most awe-inspiring spots of the North Georgia Mountains, book a tour with Monster Van Tours. The oversized windows allow for a clear view of all that you pass, and you'll stop off in many places to stretch your legs and soak in the vistas. The best thing about this service is your experienced tour guide, who can fill you in on all the best stories of this region steeped in old west history and lore. Birdwatching in Georgia's Wildlife Resources Division Areas The nearby Chestatee WMA and Blue Ridge WMA are two fantastic locations for birdwatchers. If you're lucky, you'll catch sight of plenty of rare species, one example of which is the reclusive golden-winged warbler. Besides our winged friends, there's plenty more wildlife you're likely to come across, including raccoons, opossums, bobcats, feral hogs, deer, and even bears. Whichever of these thrilling activities you decide to try out, make sure you also visit Chestatee Ford, a family-run dealership with strong family values, waiting to provide for all your vehicle purchasing and servicing needs.   Image Courtesy of Pixabay