Things To Do
Downtown Dahlonega
Downtown Dahlonega is a charming, walkable square filled with historic buildings, local shops, art museums, cozy restaurants, and wine tasting rooms. It’s the perfect place to spend an afternoon exploring, grabbing a bite, or enjoying a glass of wine before the weekend’s celebrations begin!
Downtown Helen
Downtown Helen is an adorable, German-inspired village filled with unique shops, traditional German cuisine, river activities, and attractions! The area also offers easy access to nearby hiking trails and waterfalls, including Anna Ruby Falls. As a bonus, Helen hosts a lively Oktoberfest beginning in September—making it the perfect place to stop by for a beer and a pretzel!
Gold Mining
Dahlonega is famous for being the site of the first major U.S. gold rush, and the town proudly leans into its gold-mining roots. If you’re feeling lucky, you can even try your hand at panning for gold—who knows, you might strike it rich! We recommend visiting Crisson Gold Mine or Consolidated Gold Mine, both of which offer tours, hands-on gold panning, and a glimpse into the area’s history.
Kaya Vineyard and Winery
Good news—you’re welcome to spend time at our ceremony location before the wedding! Kaya will be fully operational earlier in the day and will close at 4:00 PM for our ceremony. They offer a variety of light bites, an extensive wine selection, and often feature live music, making it a great spot to relax and enjoy the afternoon! Just a heads-up that everyone will need to head out by 4:00 PM so our vendors can begin setting up!
Doghobble Wine Farm
This is one of Steph Shearer’s favorite spots—and the location of our welcome party! Be sure to check out Doghobble Wine Farm, known for its scenic vineyard views, roaming farm animals, and great selection of wines.
Amicalola Falls Hike
Check out Georgia’s tallest waterfall at Amicalola Falls State Park! The main hike is a scenic 2.2-mile loop that begins at the iconic stone archway marking the unofficial start of the Appalachian Trail. The trail is considered moderate to strenuous, with uneven terrain, steep inclines, and an optional—but recommended—staircase climb of 175 steps for the best views. Plan for approximately 1.5 hours to complete the hike, depending on pace and photo stops. Please note: There is a $5 entry fee per vehicle to enter the park.