Dahlonega, Georgia

Dahlonega has one of the best town square centers you will find in a small town. Dahlonega was the first gold rush of the nation and the site of the United States Mint branch between 1831 and 1861. The wealth from nearby gold mines resulted in the impressive downtown area enjoyed by tourists today. The Dahlonega Gold Museum Historic Site sits in the middle of the town square, housed in the old Lumpkin County Courthouse built in 1836. Because of the scenic and steep mountainous surroundings, the challenging Tour de Georgia bicycle race (a prelude to the Tour de France), is held in the vicinity of this small town. "Bear on the Square", an annual three-day festival held the third weekend in April, marks the day that a black bear wandered onto the square. It features bluegrass and old-time music. It celebrates the culture of the Southern Appalachians with a juried artists' market and other activities. "Gold Rush Days", an annual two-day event the third weekend in October, attract over 200,000 people.