Welcome to Calhoun, known for its small-town feel and competitive proximity to major throughways, such as I-75 and US-41. From its vibrant downtown district to a plethora of historical sites, this city packs in so many opportunities for you to learn, work and play just beyond your front door!
Where to Eat
Calhoun's dining scene offers something for everyone, from classic Southern comfort food to international flavors. Whether you're craving a hearty breakfast, a casual lunch or an upscale dinner, you'll find plenty of delicious options to satisfy your appetite. Here are some of our local favorites to check out:
- Christian & Jake's Bistro - Looking for an affordable place for lunch? Check out Christian & Jake's Bistro! The restaurant has been dubbed "Calhoun's Go-To Lunch Spot" since 2012, serving up signature sandwiches, soups, salads and an array of desserts. Vegetarian options are also available. Christian & Jake's Bistro is open for lunch and dinner on weekdays and closed on weekends.
- Yellow Jacket Drive-In Restaurant - Whether you stop for breakfast or lunch, Yellow Jackets Drive-In Restaurant offers a comforting, blast-from-the-past dining experience. Indulge in mouth-watering pancakes or a savory breakfast plate, as well as triple hamburgers, hot dogs and fresh milkshakes. The restaurant is open weekdays from 6 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
- Thatcher's Barbeque and Grill - Bite into delicious barbeque and American sandwiches at Thatcher's. Highlights include the smoked pork plate, "Trisket for Brisket" tacos, ribs and the "Cowboy" pork spud. Thatcher's is closed on Sundays, so make plans to visit Monday to Saturday between 11 a.m. and 9 p.m.
- Guacamoles Bar & Grill - Guacamoles serves up sizzling fajitas and other Mexican favorites daily. Enjoy a refreshing margarita during happy hour or bring the whole family for delicious food and good times. Guacamoles is open Monday to Saturday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. and on Sundays from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
- Jerusalem Grill - Family-owned Jerusalem Grille is a staple in Calhoun, bringing you Mediterranean flavors like no other. Diners rave about its large portions of gyros and falafel dishes. Stop in between 11 a.m. and 7 p.m. daily for a tasty bite.
- Paisano's Taco House - Open daily from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., this local favorite presents Mexican dishes that can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch and dinner! Choose from build-your-own tacos and burritos or an overflowing cantina bowl. It also offers quesadillas, nachos and a kids' menu.
Explore Local History
Calhoun is abundant in local history, including Civil War sites and Cherokee Nation landmarks. Spend the day at New Echota Historical Site and learn about the first Cherokee newspaper, The Phoenix, and explore original and reconstructed buildings. Nearby in Chatsworth, Chief Vann House Historical Site is Georgia's best-preserved historic Cherokee Indian home.
Chickamauga Battlefield in Fort Oglethorpe is a great place to spread out a picnic and soak up local history. In addition to its vast greenspace, the site includes the 85-foot Wilder Brigade Monument tower that visitors can climb year-round.
Just below Calhoun, in Cartersville, the Etowah Indian Mounds Historical Site is a great place to get active and learn more about regional history as you climb to the top of its historic, earthen mounds.
Outdoor Attractions
Seeking a casual excursion this weekend? You won't want to miss the Rock Garden, a collection of dazzling rock sculptures. Every sculpture is volunteer-built and unique, showcasing elaborate recreations of the Roman Coliseum, the Notre Dame Cathedral with stained glass windows, Dover Castle and many more famous landmarks. A short, 1-mile waking trail wraps around the venue, offering a peaceful backdrop for a leisurely stroll or quick run.
Copper Creek Farm presents year-round fun in a family-friendly environment. Enjoy scenic sunflower picking in the spring, hayrides and a haunted corn maze in the fall, followed by wintertime activities to close out the year.
Embrace Calhoun's top-notch public parks, each with sports amenities, playgrounds, picnic areas and restrooms. Palmer Memorial Park is a popular choice for families with its basketball court and baseball field, as well as wheelchair accessibility. Yellow Park features Northeast Georgia's largest playground and walking trails, while Ooky Memorial Park is perfect for picnics and gatherings with gazebos and plenty of greenspace. Man's best friend has plenty of room to play, too! City Bark Dog Park includes separate fenced-in areas for large and small dogs, as well as plenty of play features.
Golfers in Calhoun have two fantastic courses to choose from close to home, each offering a unique playing experience. Fields Ferry Golf Club boasts scenic fairways and well-manicured greens, providing a peaceful yet challenging round for players of all skill levels. Calhoun Elks Lodge & Golf Club, a semi-private 18-hole course, offers a relaxed atmosphere with a par-71 layout designed to be enjoyable for both beginners and seasoned golfers.
With the Oostanaula, Coosawattee and Conasauga rivers bordering Calhoun, outdoor enthusiasts have endless opportunities for fishing, boating, kayaking, camping and more. Within Gordon County, there are 47 miles of scenic waterways, perfect for a peaceful paddle or an adventurous day on the water. For those looking to explore with a guide, New Echota Rivers Alliance offers guided paddle trips from March through November, making it easy for both beginners and experienced paddlers to enjoy the area's natural beauty.
Venturing toward Chattanooga, make plans to visit Rock City or take the incline railway to the top of Lookout Mountain. Ruby Falls invites visitors to travel deep underground and marvel at its cave waterfalls and formations, including stalactites and stalagmites. These incredible natural wonders and unique attractions are just one hour north!
Shop 'Til You Drop
Calhoun Outlet Marketplace is a place to be, whether you are looking for new running shoes or a designer handbag. Young adults can find trendy apparel at American Eagle and Old Navy or rejuvenate their sense at Bath & Body Works. With more than 30 stores to chose from, the outlets offer something for everyone.
National attraction Buc-ee's moved in a few years ago, bringing 24/7 service and made-to-order Southern favorites to weary travelers and locals. From pulled pork sandwiches and fried pies to its beloved "Beaver Nugget" corn puff snacks, there are dozens of yummy treats waiting to be devoured at Buc-ee's. The convenience store overflows with themed knick-knacks and merchandise, snacks, artwork and gifts.
Affordable New Homes in Calhoun
Not only does Calhoun have a plethora of activities to keep you busy, it is also an affordable place to live! In January 2025, the city boasted a median home price of $299,300.
Ready to find your perfect fit in Calhoun? Salacoa, the city's only waterpark community, is now open! Priced from the $290,000s, this community offers top-notch amenities and comfortable living with an affordable price tag. From cozy ranch-style homes to two-story plans, each home is complete with three to five bedrooms, up to three-and-a-half bathrooms and open-concept floorplans.
Embrace a fresh start at Salacoa in Calhoun! Visit the community page to learn more and click here to view available homes.
