If you’re looking for things to do in Dalton, Georgia, you’ve come to the right place. Dalton is the county seat of Whitfield County and the principal city of the Dalton Metropolitan Statistical Area, which encompasses Whitfield and Murray counties. While you’re visiting, don’t miss Downtown Dalton and Prater’s Mill.
Burr Performing Arts Park
Jeanne Burr, a local artist, was determined to create an arts community in Downtown Dalton. In order to fulfill her dream, she created Burr Performing Arts Park. This beautiful park is open year-round and features an amphitheater with covered stage that measures 60 feet wide and 30 feet deep. Visitors can enjoy concerts, plays, and other performances throughout the park.
Each Friday, the Burr Performing Arts Park hosts concerts by local artists, opening acts, and headliners. The events start at 6:30 p.m., with local performers first. After that, the headliners take the stage at 8:30 p.m. Wine and beer are available for purchase on-site, but personal coolers are not permitted.
Downtown Dalton
Downtown Dalton, Georgia, is home to several popular microbreweries. With an eclectic selection of beer, they provide a unique experience. However, finding great craft beer in Dalton takes a bit of diligence and patience. But, it’s definitely worth the effort. Here are a few things you should know before heading downtown.
Prater’s Mill
If you’re planning a trip to the southern Appalachian area, you can’t miss Prater’s Mill. The fair features southern foods and live historical exhibits, handmade crafts, and original art from 185 artists. The event is held on the second full weekend of October.
This historic site has a long history, dating back to the Cherokee Indians. Benjamin Franklin Prater built the mill in 1855 with the help of the Coahulla Creek. In addition to grinding grain, the mill also included a cotton gin, saw mill, wool carder, syrup mill, and general store. The mill even survived the American Civil War.
Prater’s Mill in Dalton is a fun day out for the whole family. The event also includes food, live music, and children’s inflatables. It’s a great way to get some exercise and breathe some fresh air. The atmosphere is very unique. Whether you’re a runner, a walker, or a spectator, this event will make your day complete.
The site is located at 5845 Georgia Highway 2, Dalton, GA 30721. It’s about 10 miles northeast of Dalton and 30 miles south of Chattanooga. It’s just 2.6 miles away from Dollar General. Once there, you’ll see how the mill was used by the Confederate army during the war.
In addition to a 19th century mill, the park has many attractions. Visitors can visit the mill grounds, which feature dazzling plants and wildlife. There’s also a cotton gin and a general store. The site is also a popular location for picnics, fishing, and family reunions.
Dalton Falls Fun Center
The Dalton Falls Fun Center has something for the entire family to enjoy. In addition to 18 holes of miniature golf, the center has an arcade room and an outdoor laser tag arena. Visitors can also enjoy hand-dipped ice cream cones and shaved ice. After a day of activities, guests can relax with a cold drink or ice cream.
Dalton Falls Fun Center is located at 2817 Airport Rd in Dalton, Georgia, USA. This family-friendly attraction has more than 20 attractions for the whole family to enjoy. Bumper cars, laser tag, and miniature golf are a few of the many activities available. For a little extra excitement, families can try out the bumper cars and play games in the arcade.
George Disney Trail
The George Disney Trail is a short hike that leads to a historic site. The trail ascends Rocky Face Mountain, the site of the Battle of Dalton, and is a beautiful location to enjoy the outdoors. Along the way, you can stop by the grave of a Confederate soldier named George Disney. This Confederate soldier was buried in a cemetery on the mountain, and a local Boy Scout troop found his grave in 1912. A marble marker was placed on the gravesite.
The trail began as a gentle ascent but soon began to take a steeper turn. As you progress, you’ll encounter steeper terrain and loose soil. Once you reach about 750 feet, rock outcroppings start to appear. The trail also provides beautiful views of Whitfield County.
The trail leads to an impressive memorial. This marker commemorates the man who fought bravely for the Confederacy. A new marker was unveiled in his honor and a ceremony was held to dedicate it. Twenty-five Boy Scouts and state sponsors, including Amanda Ware, Marie Hamilton, and Hattie Springfield, attended. The marker was erected in the cavity of the grave and a prayer was recited. The ceremony included an invocation and a song of “America” and “Columbia.” Taps was also played.
Starting at Dalton First Church of the Nazarene, you can access the trail by following the road past the church. From the parking lot, a gravel road will lead you to the trailhead. The trail starts out easy but becomes steeper as it climbs. Be sure to bring plenty of water! The best time to hike the trail is during springtime when the wildflowers are blooming. However, the views are beautiful at any time of year.
