The new “Welcome to Dawson County” signs on both sides of Georgia 400 entering the county now allow local businesses and residents to beckon a hearty “Welcome” to visitors directly from one of the most heavily-traveled major highways in the region. The recently-erected signs, rendered in natural wood, are in character for a destination known for outdoor experiences, small-town hospitality and motorsports legacy.  

Soon to be accented with shrubs and plants installed and maintained through the volunteer efforts of the Keep Dawson County Beautiful committee, the signs were also installed to take advantage of the “Hospitality Highway” designation of Georgia 400, which bisects the county and serves as a main transportation corridor for visitors and residents alike.  

More than 27,000 automobiles drive through the county on Georgia 400 each day. “We’re a destination many people have already discovered, but we wanted to take advantage of such a visible opportunity to welcome everyone to our community and perhaps attract some new visitors in the process,” said Linda Williams, President of the Dawson County Chamber of Commerce. 

A destination with something for everyone, Dawson County and Historic Dawsonville are steeped in Appalachian lore, surrounded by mountain high country and rich in recreation and adventure opportunities from golf to whitewater. From the highest waterfall east of the Mississippi to the trendy brands of North Georgia Premium Outlets, Dawsonville has become a destination of choice for visitors from Atlanta, Florida and throughout the Southeast.

Four-lane Georgia 400 has replaced the backroads that were popular many years ago with the region’s moonshiner runners, many of whom went on to become NASCAR legends. Today the community still champions its colorful moonshine and auto racing history, but also sports a mix of upscale shopping, dining, arts, crafts, lodging, golf and other amenities. Just an hour north of metro Atlanta, the region has become a popular destination for weekend getaways, day-trips and vacations, with many visitors making the transition to part-time or full-time resident status over time.