Whether you are looking to spend the weekend in Dalton or visiting the city for a hike or reunion, there is something for everyone here. Ranging from the base of the beautiful Appalachian mountains to the many historic museums around town, Dalton is guaranteed to entertain. Its location is ideal in that it allows visitors interested in adventures to take on long excursions on picturesque trails. There are also beautifully manicured golf courses for golfers as well as events to catch, art exhibitions to visit, and so on. If you are planning a trip to the city, continue reading below to find out more about some of the best things to do in Dalton, Georgia.
1. Visit the historic home of Dalton's first mayor
Blunt House is best known as the historic home of Dalton’s first mayor, Ainsworth Emery Blunt. It is also one of the oldest two-story homes that have been built in Dalton. After the Blunt family moved to Illinois, the house was converted into a hospital used by the Union Army. Subsequently, the house was registered as one of the historic places in the city in 1980. Open to the public, the structure features vintage clothing as well as accessories used by the family. This site is suitable for people of all ages and is family-friendly.
Blunt House
Address: 506 S Thornton Ave, Dalton, GA 30720
Website: Blunt House
Opening hours: Fri: 10am - 4pm (closed on Sat - Thu)
Price: 5 USD
2. Enjoy a concert at Burr Performing Arts Park
Burr Park was first started by an individual called Jeanne Burr with the intention of creating a special place for the arts scene in Dalton. Located strategically in the center of the city, Burr Park is a green space that comes specially equipped with an amphitheater and a stage. The park is also home to many food trucks and other kinds of sellers. And the best part, the venue is open all year round.
Burr Performing Arts Park
Address: 101 S Hamilton St, Dalton, GA 30720
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
3. Taste local brew at Dalton Distillery
Visit Dalton Distillery and get the chance to taste the best whiskey. In this distillery, only the best grains and produce are used to make the version of whiskey called moonshine. Tastings can also be organized at this venue, and up to three bottles can be sold to each person. Speak to the owners to find out more about the history of this lovely gem they founded.
Dalton Distillery
Address: 109 E Morris St, Dalton, GA 30720
Website: Dalton Distillery
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 10am - 5pm (closed on Sun)
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4. Check out Dalton Freight Depot
Here at Dalton Freight Depot and Visitors Center, tourists will be treated to an array of exhibits that depict trains used from the Civil War period right up to the early Railroad Era. There is also a gift shop within the premises for you to get souvenirs. Visitors can go on to enjoy the train-viewing platform and watch trains on the CSX and Norfolk-Southern Railways pass, forming a diamond pattern at the front of this depot.
Dalton Freight Depot and Visitors Center
Address: 305 S Depot St, Dalton, GA 30720
Website: Dalton Freight Depot and Visitors Center
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 9am - 5pm (closed on Sun)
Price: Free
5. Explore Downtown Dalton
Downtown Dalton is a great place to hang out as it can be said to be a destination of its own. There many fun and exciting events that take place in the area throughout the year, sometimes even family-friendly ones. You can, for instance, catch some parades, watch buskers on the street, or even take part in a marathon. Many restaurants are in the vicinity to present you with delectable food. Check out Downtown Dalton Farmers Market and get your hand on some fresh produce. To find out the happenings in downtown Dalton, get hold of the weekly local newsletter that’s available anywhere in the city.
Downtown Dalton
Address: 305 S Depot St, Dalton, GA 30720
Website: Downtown Dalton
6. Indulge in some history at Dug Gap Mountain and Battlefield
If you are a history buff, then you might appreciate the value of Dug Gap Mountain and Battlefield. This battle park is located on Dug Gap Mountain, where one can get a lovely view of Whitfield County. While at this site, do enjoy a glimpse of the Civil War history that ensued in the area back in the day. In addition, free parking is available for visitors who come here.
Dug Gap Mountain and Battlefield
Address: W Dug Gap Battle Rd, Dalton, GA 30720
Website: Dug Gap Mountain and Battlefield
Opening hours: 7am - 5pm (daily)
Price: Free
7. Visit Hamilton House
This is yet another site worth visiting for those interested in history. Visit Hamilton House and learn more about the local history, starting from during the Civil War. Hamilton House is known to be the oldest home that was built in the area. At this site, you can also learn more about the carpet industry that was started in Dalton. There are many other artifacts as well, some used in the Civil War. Furthermore, you also have the chance to know more about Native American heritage. Tours can be arranged upon prior request. This way, you will be guided through the house and will be able to better understand the history behind it.
Hamilton House
Address: 701 Chattanooga Ave, Dalton, GA 30720
Website: Hamilton House
Opening hours: Fri: 10am - 4pm
8. Know the mission of Whitfield-Murray Historical Society
Whitfield-Murray Historical Society was formed back in the 1950s in a bid to undertake the restoration of the historic Vann House. This society aims to preserve history and document the various milestones of the Whitfield and Murray counties. The organization maintains several local historical properties to prevent them from being destroyed due to negligence. These include historical sites like Hamilton House, Blunt House, Dug Gap Battle Park, and so on.
Whitfield-Murray Historical Society
Address: 701 Chattanooga Ave, Dalton, GA 30720
Website: Whitfield-Murray Historical Society
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 10am - 4pm (closed on Sat - Sun)
Price: Free
9. Appreciate local history at Bandy Heritage Center Museum
Bandy Heritage Center Museum was built in a bid to recognize and celebrate the rich history and culture of Northwest Georgia. The center has collaborated with other historical organizations in order to be the center for obtained information related to the area’s resources. Located in downtown Dalton, this site is deeply involved in public outreach programs. There are also archives and artifacts that visitors can access. This museum will give you a great insight into what the region underwent during the course of time and encompasses a whole range of fields—the way of life within the region, the military regime, the industrial revolution, education development, and social history. The museum is always on the lookout for people to donate relevant artifacts as well.
Bandy Heritage Center Museum
Address: 656 College Dr, Dalton, GA 30720
Website: Bandy Heritage Center Museum
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 9am - 5pm (closed on Sat - Sun)
10. Enjoy a drink at Dalton Brewing Company
Dalton Brewing Company was founded by four partners who shared the same vision of creating the best brew for its patrons. By putting together the best drinks, they serve as a catalyst for bringing people together to have a good time. This is the perfect place to enjoy some good local beer on a summer day. Ample parking is available on this site, and there are several televisions that feature sports games. So gather your friends together and head to Dalton Brewing Company for a splendid time.
Dalton Brewing Company
Address: 112 W King St, Dalton, GA 30720
Website: Dalton Brewing Company
Opening hours: Tue - Fri: 4pm - 8pm; Sat: 2pm - 10pm; Sun: 1pm - 5pm (closed on Mon)
11. Conquer George Disney Trail
George Disney Trail is situated off Highway 41, located behind State Patrol Barracks. It is said that this trail is one of the most challenging short trails that one can find in the state of Georgia. This particular trail provides the kind of difficulty and adrenaline that hikers seek. Here you get to enjoy breathtaking views of Whitfield along with the surrounding counties.
George Disney Trail
Address: U.S. Hwy 41 Dalton, GA 30720
Website: George Disney Trail
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
12. Unwind at Haig Mill Lake Park
If the weather is good and you love the outdoors, then you should really visit Haig Mill Lake Park. This lake consists of several hiking trails of various difficulty levels. You can enjoy some fishing in the lake or some canoeing and kayaking. There are adequate facilities with spots for picnics. There are also clean bathrooms around and ample parking space.
Haig Mill Lake Park
Address: 652 Haig Mill Lake Rd, Dalton, GA 30721
Website: Haig Mill Lake Park
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 8am - 5pm
Price: Free
13. Enjoy outdoor time at Heritage Point Regional Park
Looking for some recreational time outdoors? If so, Heritage Point Regional Park is a great place to be at. This is a 300-acre (121-hectare) park that houses superbly maintained softball fields along with baseball fields and an 18-hole disc golf course. There are plans to add in many more facilities within the park, like tennis courts and jogging trails. This is a great venue for picnic enthusiasts as well. With many picnic shelters available around the area, you might be interested to pack a small meal and enjoy the fresh air out in the open. Those with dogs can also leave their pets to run around in the dog park or on the walking track.
Heritage Point Regional Park
Address: 1275 Cross Plains Trail, Dalton, GA 30721
Website: Heritage Point Regional Park
Opening hours: 8am - 10pm (daily)
Price: Free
14. Explore the trails at Raisin Woods Mountain Bike Park
Looking to lead an active lifestyle even while on a break? Then you might be interested in checking out hiking trails. There are four main trails in Raisin Woods Mountain Bike Park—Bear, Grizzly, Gray Ghost Holler, and Fast and Loud. Depending on what you prefer or are adept at, you can choose your own trail. Each course is different in nature and consists of various levels of intensity. All of these paths are well-maintained and provide hiking enthusiasts with thrills and fun. So if you want to remain active while in Dalton, do head to Raisin Woods Mountain Bike Park.
Raisin Woods Mountain Bike Park
Address: 145 Raisin Way, Dalton, GA 30721
Website: Raisin Woods Mountain Bike Park
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
15. Relish the offerings at Cyra's Simple Goodness
This frills-free restaurant is located in downtown Dalton and is committed to providing diners with a unique experience. Food is of top-notch quality and served within a warm and hospitable ambiance. Food is cooked with love and makes use of the freshest produce. The restaurant makes use of seasonal ingredients and features Southern-accented fare. Delicious cocktails are also handcrafted here.
Cyra's Simple Goodness
Address: 234 N Hamilton St, Dalton, GA 30720
Website: Cyra’s Simple Goodness
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 11am - 10pm; Sat: 4pm - 10pm (closed on Sun)
16. Spend time with family at Dalton Falls Fun Center
Visit this exciting attraction if your main intention is to ensure the whole family has fun. Make great memories at this place and try your hand at several activities. Try golfing at the mini-golf course or expend some energy by playing laser tag. With so many games in store for people of all ages, there is no chance of anyone becoming bored. While at it, do also try out various flavors of hand-dipped ice cream or even an ice-cold drink.
Dalton Falls Fun Center
Address: 2817 Airport Rd, Dalton, GA 30721
Website: Dalton Falls Fun Center
Opening hours: Fri: 3pm - 7pm; Sat - Sun: 1pm - 7pm (closed on Mon - Thu)
Price: From 6 USD
17. Dine at Oakwood Cafe
Oakwood Cafe is a popular restaurant located in a central location in Dalton. This cafe is a basic eatery and is kid-friendly. It has been around for more than 30 years. Along with child-friendly dishes, American breakfast favorites such as pancakes, omelets, and French toasts are offered here as well. Several desserts are also listed on the available choices. Prices are reasonable too. So when in the vicinity and feeling peckish, fret not. Head over to Oakwood Cafe and enjoy the spread listed on the menu.
Oakwood Cafe
Address: 201 W Cuyler St, Dalton, GA 30720
Website: Oakwood Cafe
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 6:30am - 8:30pm; Sat: 7:30am - 8pm (closed on Sun)
18. Admire art exhibits at Creative Arts Guild
Creative Arts Guild located in Dalton can be said to be one of the oldest operational arts guilds in the entire state of Georgia. Here, visitors will get to view the entire gallery decorated by prominent artworks from both local and regional artists. In a mission to cultivate and maintain the arts scene in the state, this arts guild is committed to holding reputed art-related events as well as all-year-round instructional classes in the various art forms. While here, do check out Sculpture Garden, which is a fascinating sight on its own.
Creative Arts Guild
Address: 520 W Waugh St, Dalton, GA 30720
Website: Creative Arts Guild
Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 10am - 6pm; Fri: 10am - 4pm; Sat: 8:30am - 12:30pm (closed on Sun)
Price: 10 - 15 USD
19. Catch a show at Dalton Little Theatre
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Dalton Little Theatre has been chosen for a 2020 Historic Preservation Award from the Whitfield-Murray Historical...
Posted by Dalton Little Theatre on Wednesday, June 10, 2020
If you are into the arts, then you might be interested to catch some theatre shows. Dalton Little Theatre is the perfect place to visit in order to watch famous productions. At this theatre, everyone gets the chance to play a part. You can choose from being a volunteer at the backstage or onstage as cast. Do check out the venue’s website to find out more about the latest shows that are running.
Dalton Little Theatre
Address: 210 N Pentz St, Dalton, GA 30720
Website: Dalton Little Theatre
Opening hours: 2pm - 4pm, 7pm - 9pm (event days)
Price: 10 - 15 USD
20. Splurge a little at Dalton Shopping Center
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Dalton Shopping Center is a mall which can be said to be functional for patrons. There are tons of interesting stores that cater to various needs. It is also a good mall for those living in the vicinity to visit for their shopping needs. There are many sales that happen throughout the year. As such, it would be interesting to visit the shopping center often. Top brands are featured in this mall and are often sold at affordable prices. So, if you are looking for something to buy from close to this mall, you will not regret shopping here.
Dalton Shopping Center
Address: 1323 W Walnut Ave, Dalton, GA 30720
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Explore Dalton and have some fun
With so many things to do and sights to see in Dalton—and most of them suitable for people of all ages—you are definitely in for a good time. Do make an itinerary from the activities listed above and land in Dalton right away. Remember to bring friends or family along for double and triple the fun.
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