Dalton GeorgiaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Dalton, Georgia.
1. Prater's Mill
HISTORIC WATER MILL SITE
Prater's Mill is a historic site that attracts visitors for its well-preserved 19th-century gristmill and surrounding buildings. The mill hosts popular festivals throughout the year, including food vendors selling delicious treats like sausages wrapped in bacon on a stick. Visitors can explore this piece of history while enjoying the picturesque rural setting that showcases early American industrial heritage.
2. George Disney Trail
SCENIC NATURAL LANDMARK
George Disney Trail is a popular hiking destination that offers visitors a chance to connect with nature while exploring significant local landmarks. The trail has a rich history, having been first publicized with Boy Scouts over 100 years ago. Outdoor enthusiasts appreciate the trail for its natural beauty and historical significance to the Dalton area.
3. Dalton Freight Depot
HISTORIC RAILWAY HUB
The Dalton Freight Depot serves as an excellent vantage point to watch trains passing through the city, delighting train enthusiasts of all ages. Inside, visitors can explore a gift shop and informative displays that showcase the area's railway heritage. The well-preserved depot stands as a testament to Dalton's important role in the development of rail transportation in the South.
4. Haig Mill Lake Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION AREA
Haig Mill Lake Park features a well-designed 3.5-mile trail circling a beautiful lake, attracting fitness enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. The trail system is meticulously maintained and used by walkers, runners, and mountain bikers throughout the year. Visitors appreciate the park's serene setting that provides a peaceful escape from the bustle of everyday life.
5. Dalton Confederate Cemetery
HISTORIC BURIAL GROUND
Dalton Confederate Cemetery serves as the final resting place for generations of pioneer families and fallen Confederate soldiers from the Civil War. The cemetery features an iron-fenced area dedicated to Confederate soldiers, with four Union soldiers also interred on the grounds. History enthusiasts visit this solemn site to reflect on the region's complex past and the human cost of the Civil War.
6. General Joseph E. Johnston Sculpture
CIVIL WAR MONUMENT
The General Joseph E. Johnston Sculpture commemorates the Confederate general who played a significant role in the Civil War campaigns around Dalton. This monument stands as an important historical marker, allowing visitors to connect with the area's Civil War heritage. The sculpture is one of several historical attractions in Dalton that tells the story of the region's involvement in this pivotal period of American history.
7. Hamilton House
HISTORIC ARCHITECTURE SITE
Hamilton House is a beautifully preserved architectural treasure that showcases the historic residential styles of Dalton's past. Visitors can admire the distinctive architectural features that make this building a designated historic site in the community. The house stands as a testament to Dalton's commitment to preserving its architectural heritage for future generations.
8. Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park
CIVIL WAR BATTLEFIELD
Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park preserves the sites of two major Civil War battles that were crucial to the control of the southeastern United States. The park spans over 9,000 acres and features monuments, hiking trails, and interpretive displays that help visitors understand the military strategies and human stories of these historic battles. Visitors can explore the battlefield by car, foot, or bicycle while learning about this significant chapter in American history.
9. Western and Atlantic Railroad Tunnel and Heritage Center
RAILWAY HISTORY MUSEUM
The Western and Atlantic Railroad Tunnel and Heritage Center showcases a historic 1,477-foot railroad tunnel that was completed in 1850 and played a crucial role in the region's development. Visitors can walk through the restored tunnel and explore exhibits that detail the engineering marvel and its significance during the Civil War. The center offers an engaging educational experience about transportation history and its impact on northern Georgia.
10. New Echota
CHEROKEE NATION CAPITAL
New Echota was once the capital of the Cherokee Nation and now serves as a state historic site preserving this important Native American heritage. Visitors can tour reconstructed and original buildings including the Supreme Court, Council House, and the print shop that published the Cherokee Phoenix newspaper. The site provides powerful insights into Cherokee government, culture, and the tragic events leading to the Trail of Tears.
11. Creative Arts Guild
LOCAL ART CENTER
The Creative Arts Guild serves as Dalton's vibrant cultural hub, offering art exhibitions, performances, and educational programs for the community. As the oldest multi-disciplinary arts organization in Georgia, the Guild showcases work from local and regional artists in various mediums. Visitors can enjoy rotating gallery exhibits, sculpture gardens, and attend special events throughout the year that celebrate the creative spirit of northwest Georgia.
12. Oakwood Cafe
LOCAL DINING FAVORITE
Oakwood Cafe is a beloved local restaurant that serves American cuisine with vegetarian and vegan options in a welcoming atmosphere. The cafe has earned a strong reputation among locals and visitors, as evidenced by its hundreds of positive reviews. Diners appreciate the mid-range prices and the diverse menu that caters to various dietary preferences and tastes.
13. Cherokee Brewing + Pizza Company
CRAFT BEER AND PIZZA
Cherokee Brewing + Pizza Company combines the appeal of a craft brewery with delicious pizza in a casual, inviting setting. The establishment offers a selection of house-brewed beers that pair perfectly with their pizza and American pub fare. Visitors enjoy the relaxed atmosphere that makes this spot a favorite for both locals and tourists looking for quality food and drinks in Dalton.
14. Walnut Square Mall
SHOPPING AND ENTERTAINMENT
Walnut Square Mall serves as one of Dalton's primary shopping destinations, offering a variety of retail stores and services under one roof. The mall provides a climate-controlled environment where visitors can shop, dine, and socialize throughout the year. Shoppers appreciate the convenience of finding multiple businesses in a single location, making it a practical stop during a visit to Dalton.
15. The Butcher's Market
GOURMET MEATS AND BBQ
The Butcher's Market delights carnivores with its selection of premium meats and mouthwatering barbecue offerings in a casual dining setting. This mid-range eatery has earned a loyal following for its commitment to quality ingredients and traditional American barbecue techniques. Visitors can enjoy hearty portions of expertly prepared meat dishes that showcase the rich culinary traditions of the American South.