Need a peaceful mountain escape with scenic drives, antiques, and Southern charm? Head to Dillard, GA! Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains near the North Carolina border, Dillard offers quiet beauty, farm-fresh food, and easy access to outdoor adventures. Whether you’re antique shopping, hiking waterfalls, or enjoying a hearty Southern meal, Dillard makes a relaxing getaway in the North Georgia mountains.
Dillard, GA Highlights:
- Visit the Dillard House: Famous for its generous Southern-style meals and beautiful mountain views.
- Shop for treasures at the Dillard Antique Mall: Explore rows of vintage finds, collectibles, and local crafts.
- Drive the scenic Mountain City stretch of US-441: Catch panoramic views and fall foliage along this peaceful corridor.
- Tour a local alpaca farm: Meet gentle animals and shop for soft, handcrafted goods at establishments like Osage Farms or Scaly Mountain.
- Explore nearby hiking and waterfalls: Visit nearby Black Rock Mountain State Park or hike to Estatoah Falls for outdoor adventure.
Best Time to Visit Dillard, GA
The best time to visit Dillard is in spring and fall (April–June and September–October). Spring brings wildflowers and fresh greenery, while fall delivers crisp air and stunning foliage. Summer is great for cooler mountain temps, and winter offers peaceful views and cozy cabin vibes.
How to Get to Dillard, GA
- If you are traveling by car: Dillard is located on US-441, about 2 hours from Atlanta, GA or Asheville, NC.
- By Air: The closest airports are Asheville Regional Airport (AVL) and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), both within a 2-hour drive.
- By Bus: Greyhound and regional shuttles serve nearby towns like Clayton and Franklin, with taxi or rideshare options to Dillard.
Where to Stay in Dillard, GA
- The Dillard House Inn & Cabins – Stay right where you dine, with mountain views, on-site stables, and rustic charm.
- Mountain Valley Inn – Budget-friendly motel with clean, comfortable rooms and easy access to local attractions.
- Local cabins and rentals – Find cozy cabins and homes for rent with fireplaces, porches, and forest views.
Best Things to Do in Dillard, GA
⮕ R.M. Rose Company
Tour a historic distillery, savor handcrafted whiskey and unique spirits.
Immediately after the Civil War an enterprising Connecticut doctor set about producing and distributing premium safe alcohol in the South. Using tried and tested age-old methods Dr Rufus Rose pioneered fine whiskey production in Georgia. Of course, prohibition put a stop to all that in 1920.
Today the owners of the R.M. Rose Company strive to produce the same consistent quality using the same methods, and have named their distillery in honor of Dr. Rose. The company produces a range of award-winning straight bourbons as well as naturally flavored varieties. The distillery offers guided tours of the facility – you will get to see and smell all stages of the process – followed by a tasting.
890 Franklin Street, Dillard, GA 30537, Phone: 706-982-8115, Map
⮕ Julep Farms
Enjoy farm-to-table dining, explore gardens and savor Southern hospitality.
Peacefully nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Julep Farms is a very special modern farm resort, offering accommodation, dining, shopping and more. Whether you choose to make the farm your base for exploring the area or if you are just visiting, you can enjoy anything from a quick cup of coffee at the Coffee Bar or a delicious lunch or dinner in the Julep Kitchen.
The Julep Shop is a wonderful place to shop for unique gift items, and the comfortable and friendly Julep Bar serves cocktails, wines, champagnes and local craft beers. The beautifully appointed Julep Farm Cottages are the perfect base to return to at the end of a busy day, offering beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and gardens.
Julep Farms, 500 Highway 246, Dillard, GA 30537, Phone: 706-960-9600
Activities and Attractions for Couples and Singles:
⮕ Appalachian Trader
Browse unique antiques, discover hidden treasures and local crafts.
Located in what was once an old feed store, the Appalachian Trader is a fascinating store for anyone who loves antiques and historic bits and pieces. The business was originally established in 1985 and owners Jerry and Bev have devoted the last 30+ years to putting together a wonderful collection of everything old and interesting.
Visitors to the store can enjoy a nostalgic journey back in time and re-live their childhood, surrounding by bits and bobs you would have expected to find in your granny’s home. Highlights include unique pieces of antique furniture, cooking utensils, country primitives and much more.
Appalachian Trader, 1093 Franklin Street, Dillard, GA 30537, Phone: 706-746-5253
⮕ The Dillard House
Savor Southern comfort food, enjoy family-style dining with mountain views.
The Dillard House was built in 1917 on a tract of land which had belonged to the Dillard family since 1794. The beautiful old homestead lies nestled in the Little Tennessee River Valley and the comfortable front porch offers unsurpassed views of the famous Blue Ridge Mountains.
Today The Dillard House operates as an up-market country Inn, offering luxurious accommodation in rooms and cottages and excellent amenities. Guest can enjoy relaxing by the pool and whirlpool, try their hand at trout fishing or saddle up and set off to explore the scenic surroundings on horseback. Children will love the opportunity to meet and pet the resident farm animals in the petting zoo.
The Dillard House , 768 Franklin St, Dillard GA 30537, Phone: 800-541-0671
Where to Eat in Dillard, GA
- The Dillard House Restaurant – Can’t-miss Southern dining experience with heaping platters and mountain views.
- Valley Café & Catering – Homestyle meals with great breakfast and friendly service just down the road.
- Tomlin BBQ – Hearty portions of smoked meats and sides, perfect for a casual lunch or dinner.
- Annette’s Café – Small-town diner with burgers, breakfast, and a nostalgic vibe.
If you are interested in local events:
- Dillard Bluegrass & Barbecue Festival (August) – Live music, barbecue, and craft vendors at this lively summer celebration.
- Fall Harvest Festival (October) – Celebrate Appalachian traditions with crafts, food, and seasonal activities.
- Holiday at the House (December) – Festive lights, music, and holiday dining at the Dillard House Inn & Restaurant.
If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes of Dillard, Georgia:
- Clayton (10–15 min) – Browse boutiques, enjoy coffee shops, and dine in a charming mountain downtown.
- Highlands, NC (30 min) – Upscale mountain town with galleries, waterfalls, and scenic drives.
- Tallulah Gorge State Park (30 min) – Hike rim trails, cross a suspension bridge, and take in breathtaking canyon views.
- Rabun Bald Trail (20–25 min) – Hike to Georgia’s second-highest peak for panoramic mountain views.
- Lake Burton (30 min) – Go boating, fishing, or enjoy a meal with a lakefront view at LaPrade’s Marina.
- Q: Where is Dillard located?
- A: Dillard is located just 2 hours north of Atlanta, within easy striking distance of three state parks in the Blue Ridge Mountains.
- Q: Why is Dillard an ideal destination?
- A: Dillard is an ideal destination for a weekend getaway, offering something for everyone, including historic estates turned into country-style resorts for a taste of stately country living.
- Q: What outdoor activities can visitors enjoy in Dillard?
- A: Visitors can try a host of outdoor recreational activities, including horseback riding, walking, hiking, canoeing, kayaking, and white-water rafting.
Map:
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