The Ultimate Road Trip: Top Places to See When Driving From Ball Ground, Georgia to Dahlonega, Georgia
Are you planning a road trip in Georgia and looking for the best route to take? Look no further than the scenic drive from Ball Ground to Dahlonega. This route takes you through some of the most beautiful parts of the state, from rolling hills and tranquil forests to charming small towns. In this blog post, we'll highlight the top places to see when driving from Ball Ground to Dahlonega, making sure you don't miss out on any hidden gems.
Before we jump into the list, we want to point out that this drive is best enjoyed at a leisurely pace. Take your time, stop often, and soak in the views. This route is under 30 miles, but we recommend setting aside at least half a day to fully appreciate it.
1. Gibbs Gardens
Starting in Ball Ground, head to Gibbs Gardens, a stunning 292-acre property with 220 acres of landscaped gardens. The gardens are in full bloom from March through June, but there's something to see year-round. Expect to see everything from azaleas and roses to Japanese maples and water lilies. The gardens are divided into 16 areas, each with its own theme and design. If you love nature, flowers, and beautiful outdoor spaces, this is an absolute must-see.
2. Amicalola Falls State Park
From Gibbs Gardens, drive north to Amicalola Falls State Park, one of Georgia's most popular parks. The star attraction here is the 729-foot Amicalola Falls, the highest waterfall in the state. You can view the falls from several vantage points, including a wooden platform at the base and a suspension bridge that hangs over the falls. The park also has 12 miles of hiking trails, including the challenging 8.5-mile approach trail to the Appalachian Trail. Pack a picnic and make a day of it.
3. Dawsonville Moonshine Distillery
As you head towards Dahlonega, make a pit stop at the Dawsonville Moonshine Distillery, one of the few legal distilleries in the state. This family-run business produces a range of moonshine flavors, from traditional corn whiskey to apple pie and blueberry. You can take a tour of the facility, learn about the history of moonshine in Georgia, and even sample some of the products (if you're over 21, of course). It's a unique experience that's worth the detour.
4. Dahlonega Square
Arriving in Dahlonega, head straight to the town square, the heart of this historic town. This charming square is lined with specialty shops, galleries, and restaurants, many of which are housed in 19th-century buildings. The old courthouse steps on the square were the site of the first major gold rush in the United States, and you can still see the old Dahlonega Mint Building, which produced over $6 million in gold coins in the mid-1800s. Take a leisurely stroll around the square, grab a bite to eat, and soak in the small-town vibe.
5. Consolidated Gold Mine
Finally, no trip to Dahlonega is complete without a visit to Consolidated Gold Mine, one of the area's top attractions. This historic gold mine dates back to 1895 and produced over 200,000 ounces of gold before it closed in 1906. You can take a tour of the mine, which takes you 200 feet underground, and even do some gold panning yourself. It's a fun and educational experience that's perfect for the whole family.
Conclusion
We hope this list has inspired you to take the scenic route from Ball Ground to Dahlonega. From stunning gardens to historic gold mines, there's something for everyone on this short drive. Remember to take your time, enjoy the views, and savor the small-town charm of Georgia. Happy traveling!