If you're a big outdoor guy/gal, this is a must-see. Amicalola has absolutely beautiful waterfalls and tons of other exciting things to get into. Kyle and I went were in awe during our first trip to Amicalola.
Helen is quaint German town about 45 minutes north of the Venue. It will be busy as Octoberfest is a huge hit that's hosted in the town every year. This was Kyle and I's first "day-trip date" shortly after we started dating. There's a cute little putt-putt course that we would recommend... we won't talk about who won. ;)
If you plan to be in the area for a few days, Lake Lanier is another great outdoor escape.
Alpharetta is about 40 minutes south of Dawsonville and has so much to offer! It has an outdoor mall, Topgolf, movie theater, etc.