Calhoun (Georgia) Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, places to visit, and local culture of Calhoun, Georgia in this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Calhoun (Georgia)

Calhoun is a picturesque city in Northwest High Country, nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. It is a charming town with rich cultural heritage and incredible natural beauty. Calhoun is known for its historic downtown, home to several museums, antique shops, and restaurants. The city is a must-visit if you want to experience the beauty of North Georgia and learn about its fascinating history.

List of Places to Visit in Calhoun (Georgia)

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • New Echota Historic Site: A former Cherokee capital, New Echota offers a glimpse into the life and culture of the Cherokee people. Visitors can explore the reconstructed buildings and learn about the Trail of Tears.
  • Gordon County Historical Society: The Gordon County Historical Society Museum showcases the history of Calhoun and the surrounding region. It features exhibits on the area’s early industries, Cherokee life, and military history.
  • The Roland Hayes Museum: This museum celebrates the life and career of Roland Hayes, a renowned African American tenor and Calhoun native.

Natural Attractions of Calhoun (Georgia): Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Johns Mountain Wildlife Management Area: A haven for outdoor enthusiasts, Johns Mountain WMA boasts more than 23,000 acres of pristine wilderness. The area offers hiking trails, fishing, and hunting opportunities for seasonal game.
  • Resaca Battlefield Historic Site: This Civil War battlefield is the site of the first major conflict of the Atlanta Campaign. Visitors can walk the trails, view monuments, and learn about the events that led up to the battle.
  • The Pocket: The Pocket is a hidden gem in the Chattahoochee National Forest. It features a picturesque gorge, a waterfall, and several hiking trails.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Calhoun (Georgia)

  • Pinhoti Trail: This trail is a part of the larger Eastern Continental Trail and covers 23 miles of Georgia’s best backcountry. The starting point is 1375 miles from the Appalachian Trail southern terminus on Springer Mountain.
  • Grassy Mountain Tower Trail: This easy, 1.7-mile hike offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains from the Grassy Mountain Fire Tower.
  • Johns Mountain Trail System: The Johns Mountain Trail System features 40 miles of multiuse trails in the Johns Mountain Wildlife Management Area. It offers hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding.

Best Things to Do in Calhoun (Georgia): Activities and Tours

  • Calhoun Ghost Tours: Take a spooky evening tour of Calhoun’s haunted locations. The tour guides will share stories of local ghosts and legends.
  • Calhoun Premium Outlets: Shop till you drop at Calhoun Premium Outlets, which features over 50 stores with discounts up to 65% off retail prices.
  • Wine Tasting at Calhoun Wine Cellar: Sip on some of Georgia’s finest wines at Calhoun Wine Cellar. They host regular wine tastings and private events.

Week-Long Itinerary for Calhoun (Georgia)

Day Destination
1 New Echota Historic Site
2 Johns Mountain Wildlife Management Area
3 Resaca Battlefield Historic Site
4 Gordon County Historical Society Museum
5 The Pocket
6 Calhoun Ghost Tours
7 Calhoun Premium Outlets

Food and Drink Scene of Calhoun (Georgia)

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pulled Pork Sandwich: A Southern classic, Calhoun serves up some of the state’s best with a variety of mouth-watering BBQ joints.
  • Fried Green Tomatoes: A staple of Southern cuisine, fried green tomatoes can be found on many menus around Calhoun.
  • Pecan Pie: Made with local Georgia pecans, a slice of pecan pie is a must-try dessert when in Calhoun.

Local Beverages

  • Calhoun Wine Cellar: Try a glass (or bottle!) of local Georgia wine at this popular wine cellar.
  • Downtown Drafts: Downtown Drafts is a great spot to sample local craft beer and cider.

Where to Stay in Calhoun (Georgia): Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Magnuson Hotel Calhoun: This hotel is conveniently located near I-75 and features comfortable rooms and an outdoor pool.
  • Days Inn by Wyndham Calhoun: This hotel offers affordable accommodations and is just a short drive from many local attractions.
  • Agape Farm Bed and Breakfast: This charming bed and breakfast offers beautiful views of the mountains and a peaceful setting.

What to Buy in Calhoun (Georgia): Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Antiques and Collectibles: Calhoun is known for its many antique shops where you can find unique items to bring home.
  • Georgia Pecans: Georgia pecans are some of the best in the world and can be found at local farmer’s markets.
  • Pottery and Other Handmade Crafts: You can find beautiful handmade pottery and other crafts at the many art galleries and shops in Calhoun.

Local Culture and Customs of Calhoun (Georgia)

Calhoun is proud of its Southern heritage and visitors can expect to experience warm hospitality and a laid-back atmosphere. The city is deeply rooted in Cherokee history and works to promote the preservation of their culture and traditions. It is also a hub for folk music and attracts visitors from all over the South to experience the local music scene.

Best Time to Visit Calhoun (Georgia)

The best time to visit Calhoun is during the fall when the leaves are changing colors and the temperatures are mild. Spring is also a great time to visit, when the wildflowers are in bloom.

Do’s and Don’ts of Calhoun (Georgia)

Do:

  • Visit New Echota Historic Site and learn about the history of the Cherokee people.
  • Try local delicacies like pecan pie and fried green tomatoes.
  • Take a hike in the beautiful Johns Mountain Wildlife Management Area.

Don’t:

  • Ignore the significance of the local Cherokee culture and traditions.
  • Overlook the small shops and galleries in downtown Calhoun.
  • Forget to pack comfortable shoes for all the outdoor adventure.

Safety and Health

Safety in Calhoun (Georgia)

Calhoun is a relatively safe city, but visitors should still exercise the usual precautions such as locking their cars and keeping valuable items out of sight.

Health in Calhoun (Georgia)

Visitors should be aware that venomous snakes and ticks are present in the outdoor areas around Calhoun. It is recommended to wear proper shoes and clothing to avoid snake bites and tick-borne diseases.

Getting to Calhoun (Georgia): Transportation Options and Logistics

Calhoun is conveniently located near Interstate 75, making it easily accessible by car. The city is about an hour and a half drive from the Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport.

Airports Near Calhoun (Georgia)

  • Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL): 84 miles away
  • Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport (CHA): 57 miles away

Bus Stations Near Calhoun (Georgia)

  • Greyhound Bus Station (Rome, GA): 23 miles away
  • Marta Civic Center (Dalton, GA): 18 miles away

Other Options

  • A rental car is a great option for exploring the area around Calhoun.
  • Uber and Lyft are available in the area.

How to Get Around in Calhoun (Georgia)

The best way to get around Calhoun is by car. Public transportation is limited to taxis and ride-sharing services.

Where to Go Next from Calhoun (Georgia): Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Blue Ridge, GA: A charming mountain town with plenty of outdoor activities and a thriving arts community.
  • Helen, GA: A Bavarian-style village located in the heart of the North Georgia mountains.
  • Chattanooga, TN: A bustling city that boasts outdoor adventures, museums, and a lively downtown.

Conclusion

Calhoun is a hidden gem in the North Georgia mountains. With its rich cultural heritage, breathtaking natural beauty, and charming downtown, it is a must-visit destination for those looking for an authentic Southern experience. From hiking and biking to wine tasting and local cuisine, there are plenty of things to see and do in Calhoun.

Downtown Calhoun Georgia Downtown Calhoun Georgia Council House, New Echota, GA July 2017 Council House, New Echota, GA July 2017 Rock Garden Calhoun Cathedral and Castle Rock Garden Calhoun Cathedral and Castle