Discovering Dawsonville: 10 Must-Do Activities in Georgia’s Hidden Gem by Chafin Communities

Nestled in the foothills of the North Georgia Mountains lies the charming town of Dawsonville. It’s a treasure trove of natural beauty, history, and Southern hospitality. When it comes to things to do, there is more than what meets the eye. Here are 10 unforgettable experiences to add to your Dawsonville itinerary:

Embark on the Approach Trail 

Begin your Dawsonville, GA adventure with a hike along the Approach Trail, the southernmost portion of the iconic Appalachian Trail. The Approach Trail is a 15.5 mile round trip hike, great for a day trip. It begins at Amicalola Falls State Park and ends at Springer Mountain. Pack a backpack and trek through lush forests, past cascading waterfalls, and up rocky ridges as you immerse yourself in the beauty of the North Georgia mountains. 

Visit Uncle Shuck’s Corn Maze

Get lost in the fun at Uncle Shuck’s Corn Maze, a beloved seasonal attraction in Dawsonville. Wander through acres of twisting cornstalks, hand-pick a pumpkin to take home, and enjoy a variety of family-friendly activities, including hayrides and bonfire nights. On the weekends concessions offer mouthwatering turkey legs, roasted corn, fried Oreos, and more. Uncle Shucks also gets into the Halloween spirit in October with The Dark Rows, a haunted version of the trail on Friday and Saturday nights. Take a step into the spooky rows if you dare.

Shop ’til You Drop at North Georgia Premium Outlets 

Indulge in some retail therapy at the North Georgia Premium Outlets, home to a wide array of designer and brand-name stores offering unbeatable discounts. Whether you’re hunting for fashion finds, home décor, or sporting goods, you’re sure to score some great deals at this shopper’s paradise.

Discover Racing History at the Georgia Racing Hall of Fame

Pay homage to Dawsonville’s rich racing heritage at the Georgia Racing Hall of Fame. Explore interactive exhibits, admire vintage race cars, and learn about the legendary drivers who helped put Dawsonville on the map as the “birthplace of stock car racing.” Big names like Red Byron, Bill Elliott, Gober Sosebee, and more Georgia natives are featured. You may have visited before, but racing simulators will be making their debut in Spring 2024, adding a whole new level of fun to this experience.

Attend Special Events and Festivals

Throughout the year, Dawsonville hosts a variety of special events and festivals. The annual Mountain Moonshine Festival is hosted at the Georgia Racing Hall of Fame and Dawsonville City Hall’s Main Street Park. This festival features a car show, the moonshine run, and several local vendors. In the Spring, the Amicalola Farmers Market is held every Saturday at the City of Dawsonville Farmers Market Pavilion on Allen Street. The committee ensures that all vendors are selling produce grown in either Dawson County or a neighboring county, guaranteeing that everything is locally grown. For a family outing, check out Food Truck Friday for a kids’ water slide, live music, and good eats. There is always something exciting happening in this vibrant community. So be sure to check for events taking place during your stay. 

Savor Delicious Cuisine at Local Restaurants

Treat your taste buds to the flavors of the South at Dawsonville’s eclectic array of restaurants and eateries. From down-home barbecue joints to upscale bistros, you’ll find something to satisfy every palate. Some local favorites include Big D’s BBQ, Papa’s Place, Blue Bicycle, and Dawsonville’s Pool Room. 

Explore Amicalola Falls State Park

Experience the awe-inspiring beauty of nature at Amicalola Falls State Park with just a short drive from Dawsonville. It is miles from the Appalachian Trail and home to the tallest waterfall in Georgia. Hike along scenic trails, marvel at breathtaking vistas, and immerse yourself in the tranquility of the great outdoors. The enjoyment doesn’t have to be short lived with the option of staying in onsite accommodations such as campsites, cabins, glamping, or rooms in the lodge.

Wander Among the Flowers 

Fausett Farms speaks from their family to yours when they invite guests to bask in the beauty of their vibrant sunflower fields. Also, Jungle Paradise is open from March to October displaying a variety of lovely blooms. Suzanne Franklin is proud to share the delight of her wildflowers, perennials, azaleas, daylilies, and more. Whether you want to take a moment to stroll through nature’s bounty or capture family photos, these are locations you won’t want to miss.

Hike the Edge of the World Trails

Trek to scenic overlooks and discover hidden gems off the beaten path. Challenge yourself with a hike along the Edge of the World’s Trail through the woods or mosey through the .5 mile boardwalk trail. This trail makes for a movie-worthy summer day with its fishing spots, swimming hole, and rock slides. However, regardless of whether you have plans to fish or hunt, all visitors 16 years and older must have a valid hunting license, fishing license, or Georgia Lands Pass to enter.

Unleash Your Adrenaline at Atlanta Motorsports Park 

This Formula 1-designed motorsports park beckons both seasoned racers and curious thrill seekers to its gates. If you have a need for speed, this is your playground. It has Georgia’s fastest outdoor kart track, a racing academy, and the ability to feel the true speed of a fast car. Many drivers leave with a newfound appreciation for racing and memories that will last a lifetime.

Needless to say, there is no shortage of fun in Dawsonville, GA. From hiking and camping to fishing and boating, Dawsonville offers endless opportunities for outdoor adventure. Dawsonville welcomes you to explore the terrain of the North Georgia mountains. Feel the rush of a racecar driver, or simply relax and stop by their shops and restaurants.