Road Tripping from Alpharetta to Kannapolis: The Best Places to See Along the Way

Road trips can be a perfect way of firing up the soul and enjoying the scenic beauty of the country. Between Alpharetta, Georgia, and Kannapolis, North Carolina, lies a road trip full of excitement and attractions that cater to almost all interests. From historical sites, natural landmarks, charming small towns to delicious southern cuisine, the journey from Alpharetta to Kannapolis is packed with stunning scenery and exciting places to explore. Here are some of the top places to visit when driving from Alpharetta, Georgia to Kannapolis, North Carolina.

Discover the Lead Mines at Dahlonega, Georgia

Start your drive from Alpharetta and head towards Dahlonega, Georgia, about an hour and forty minutes drive. Dahlonega was one of the first significant gold rushes in the United States. Visitors can head to the Consolidated Gold Mines for a chance to pan for gold themselves. The city has many hiking and biking trails, unique shops, and restaurants to check out.

Embrace the Beauty of Helen, Georgia

Helen, Georgia, about an hour's drive from Dahlonega, offers its visitors a perfect blend of Bavarian and Southern charm. Visitors can walk through the vibrant streets of the city, savor delicious German dishes in local cafes, and enjoy water activities like tubing along the Chattahoochee River.

The Best BBQ in Clayton, Georgia

Thirty minutes north of Helen is the fantastic BBQ spot, Fortify Kitchen & Bar in Clayton, Georgia. This barbecue restaurant serves some of the best dishes along your route, ensuring that you have a fantastic lunch.

Take a Walk in the Cloudland Canyon State Park

Your next stop should be the Cloudland Canyon State Park, in the mountains of northwest Georgia. This amazing place offers fascinating waterfalls, grandiose canyons, and beautiful natural scenery. Take a hike on the trails, gaze out at the picturesque vistas, and enjoy the sunshine and fresh mountain air before heading on with your journey.

Visit the Historic Covered Bridge in Blairsville, Georgia

Twenty minutes northeast of the Cloudland Canyon State Park lies Blairsville, Georgia, a charming little town rich in Civil War history. It is the site of the famous Reece Farm and house, where Union troops once camped. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely walk, explore the quaint shops or the historic covered bridge, near the downtown square.

Unwind at the Toccoa Falls

The Toccoa Falls, near Toccoa, Georgia, is a great spot to stop for a while and unwind. The beautiful natural waterfall is peaceful and breathtaking, and the campus of the nearby Toccoa Falls College is also fantastic to explore.

Sample the Wines at the Botta Winery

The Botta Winery, In Mills River, North Carolina, offers visitors over thirty-five different types of wines to sample, including sweeter dessert wine. The winery also has a gift shop and a garden where guests can wander through the beautiful flowers and amazing mountain view.

Travel Back in Time at the Carl Sandburg House

A few miles south of Asheville, North Carolina, lies the Carl Sandburg House. The National Historic Site offers visitors the chance to explore where the famous poet, Pulitzer Prize winner, and author of Abraham Lincoln’s biography - Carl Sandburg and his family lived. Visitors can walk around the large 245-acre farm, take a tour of the historic house, and enjoy views of scenic beauty.

Step into Hollywood at Chimney Rock State Park

Continuing along the Blue Ridge Mountains, you'll reach Chimney Rock State Park, a perfect scenic spot for movie buffs. This State Park was used in filming National Lampoon's Vacation, and visitors can see the rock where Chevy Chase famously climbed the Chimney Rock. The park also features over 75 miles of hiking trails, waterfalls, and spectacular views of Lake Lure.

Get an Adrenaline Rush at the US National White-Water Center

About an hour outside of Kannapolis, the US National White-Water Center, in Charlotte, North Carolina, offers a game-filled adventure, including ziplining, kayaking, and thrill-filled rafting tours. Visitors can also hike or bike through the woods, climb on a ropes course, or try stand-up paddleboarding.

Conclusion

From Dahlonega to Kannapolis, the journey from Alpharetta is an adventure packed with stunning scenery and exciting places to explore. Enjoy the beautiful mountain views and thrills that the road trip offers along the way by following this list. Your soul and stomach will surely benefit from the sites visited and food tried in this fantastic journey. A road trip from Alpharetta to Kannapolis will provide memories of a lifetime.