Set amid breathtaking natural surroundings in northern Georgia, Dahlonega has much to offer visitors. Whether you want to soak in the historical atmosphere, go on long hikes, or engage in fun activities with your family, you will find something of interest here. So, if you are going to be in town, here are five fun destinations in Dahlonega to check out.
Chestatee Wildlife Preserve and Zoo
The zoo is home to over 100 animals, both native and exotic, that animal activists and the authorities rescued from various unpleasant and unfortunate situations. When you visit, remember to buy a $5 food bucket to feed the animals that approach the fence to meet you. Since the Chestatee Wildlife Preserve and Zoo does not get government funding, they will also appreciate donations of fresh produce and toys for the animals.
You can visit the animals from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday to Sunday throughout the year. The last entry is at 3 p.m. The admission fee is $10 for children 12 years old and older, $5 for kids one to 11 years old, and free for infants under 12 months. Cash payment is preferred.
North Georgia Astronomical Observatory
If you enjoy star gazing, head to Day Drive in Dahlonega and visit the North Georgia Astronomical Observatory. It is renowned for its NASA All-Sky Fireball Network Camera that astronomers use for detecting meteors. The Observatory is open for university students from Monday to Friday and for the general public on Fridays. Visit on clear nights. The observatory also has free planetarium shows during the week.
From 7:30 p.m. onward, Monday through Thursday, the Observatory is open for students taking Introductory astronomy classes. The public can visit starting at 9:30 p.m. on Fridays.
Dahlonega Walking Tours
Taking a walking tour is a great way to discover the historical buildings in Dahlonega, the town’s haunted past, and its fantastic food and wine. Some of the popular tours include the Dahlonega History Tour, Grapes and Ghosts Wine Tour, the Paranormal Investigation Tour, the Historic Ghost Tour, and the Boos and Brews Pub Crawl.
Tours generally take place Thursdays to Sundays. Check at 19, East Main Street, for exact dates, prices, and times.
Yahoola Creek Park
Located at 464, Mechanicsville Road, Yahoola Creek Park is a great place to unwind outdoors with your family. There are picnic tables and a children’s playground. If you’re in the mood for sports, there are basketball and tennis courts as well as soccer, baseball, and softball fields. Go hiking along with various trails, or spend time in the community garden.
The park is open Monday through Sunday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Cane Creek Falls
An impressive waterfall that plunges down 85 feet, Cane Creek Falls is the largest waterfall in Fall Creek Falls State Park. You can hike up to two outlook points above the waterfall to get breathtaking views of it and the surrounding woodlands. Since the waterfall is on private land owned by the Camp Glisson Retreat Center, call beforehand to arrange a visit.
These are just a few of the memorable places in Dahlonega that will make you plan a return trip.
Image via Pixabay
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