Welcome to Dalton, Georgia, the charming county seat of Whitfield County, and a wonderful destination to explore in the southern United States. With its rich history and small-town feel, there’s plenty to see and do in Dalton. From outdoor adventures to cultural experiences, this list of the 25 best things to do in Dalton, GA, will help you plan your next adventure.
1. Hamilton House
The Hamilton House is a stunning example of Italianate architecture and was once home to one of Dalton’s most prominent families. Visitors can take a guided tour of the house, which is now a museum, to learn more about its history and architecture.
Additional information:
The Hamilton House is open for tours on Fridays and Saturdays, from 10 am to 4 pm. Admission fees vary by age and group size.
FAQ:
Q: Is the Hamilton House accessible for visitors with disabilities?
A: Yes, the Hamilton House is wheelchair accessible, with a ramp and an elevator available.
2. George W. Disney Trail
For those who love to hike and explore nature, the George W. Disney Trail is a must-visit destination. This scenic trail spans over three miles and takes visitors through some of the most beautiful landscapes in Dalton, including stunning waterfalls and lush forests.
Additional information:
The George W. Disney Trail is free to access and open year-round. Visitors are advised to wear comfortable shoes and bring water and snacks for the hike.
FAQ:
Q: Is the George W. Disney Trail suitable for beginners?
A: Yes, the trail is relatively easy and suitable for beginners. However, there are some steep sections, so visitors should still be cautious and prepared.
3. Dalton Freight Depot and Visitors Center
The Dalton Freight Depot is a historic landmark and visitors center that provides a wealth of information about the city’s railroad history. Visitors can explore the exhibits and displays on the rail industry and learn about the importance of the railway to Dalton’s economy and growth.
Additional information:
The Dalton Freight Depot and Visitors Center is open from 10 AM to 4 PM on Thursdays,
Fridays, Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays, but closed on Sundays. On Saturdays, the center is also open from 10 AM to 4 PM.
Admission is free.
FAQ:
Q: Is parking available at the Dalton Freight Depot and Visitors Center?
A: Yes, free parking is available on-site for visitors.
4. Dalton Falls Fun Center
Looking for some family-friendly fun in Dalton? Check out the Dalton Falls Fun Center, which offers a wide range of activities, including mini-golf, go-karts, bumper boats, and an arcade.
Additional information:
The Dalton Falls Fun Center is open in the afternoon and evenings from 3 PM to 8 PM on Thursdays, Fridays, and Wednesdays. On Saturdays, the center is open from 1 PM to 8 PM, and on Sundays, it’s open from 1 PM to 7 PM. However, the center is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.
Admission fees vary depending on the activity.
FAQ:
Q: Is there food available at the Dalton Falls Fun Center?
A: Yes, there is a snack bar on-site that serves food and drinks.
5. Burr Performing Arts Park
The Burr Performing Arts Park is a beautiful outdoor venue that hosts a variety of live performances throughout the year. From music concerts to theatrical productions, there’s always something exciting happening at this vibrant cultural hub.
Additional information:
Admission to the Burr Performing Arts Park varies depending on the event. Visitors are advised to check the park’s website for upcoming shows and ticket information.
FAQ:
Q: Is the Burr Performing Arts Park wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, the park is wheelchair accessible, with ramps and accessible seating available.
6. Brookwood Park
Brookwood Park is a scenic public park that offers plenty of space for outdoor recreation, including hiking, picnicking, and fishing. With its beautiful natural scenery and peaceful ambiance, it’s the perfect place to unwind and enjoy the great outdoors.
Additional information:
Brookwood Park is open daily, from 6am to 11pm and admission is free.
FAQ:
Q: Are dogs allowed at Brookwood Park?
A: Yes, dogs are allowed at Brookwood Park.
7. Lakeshore Park
Located just minutes away from downtown Dalton, Lakeshore Park is a scenic park that offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll around the park’s paved walking trail, enjoy a picnic in the shade of the trees, or fish from the park’s pier. The park also features a playground for children and a pavilion that can be rented for special events.
Additional Information:
Admission: Free
Hours: Open daily from 6am to 11pm.
Address: 1600 Lakeshore Dr, Dalton, GA 30720
Phone: +1 706-278-4628
FAQs:
Can I rent the pavilion at Lakeshore Park for a private event?
Yes, the pavilion at Lakeshore Park can be rented for private events such as birthday parties, family reunions, and company picnics. Reservations can be made by calling the park’s main office.
Is fishing allowed at Lakeshore Park?
Yes, fishing is allowed at Lakeshore Park. Visitors can fish from the park’s pier, but a valid Georgia fishing license is required for those aged 16 and older.
8. Al Rollins Park
Named in honor of Dalton’s famous hockey player, Al Rollins Park is a popular community park that offers a variety of recreational activities. The park features several baseball fields, a walking trail, a playground for children, and a large pavilion that can be reserved for private events. Visitors can also enjoy a round of disc golf on the park’s 18-hole disc golf course.
Additional Information:
Admission: Free
Hours: Open daily from 7am to 10pm.
Address: 521 Threadmill Rd, Dalton, GA 30720, United States
Phone: +1 706-226-6306
FAQs:
Is the disc golf course at Al Rollins Park free to play?
Yes, the disc golf course at Al Rollins Park is free to play. Players must bring their own discs.
Can I reserve the pavilion at Al Rollins Park for a private event?
Yes, the pavilion at Al Rollins Park can be reserved for private events such as birthday parties, family reunions, and company picnics. Reservations can be made by calling the park’s main office.
9. Prater’s Mill Historic Site
Prater’s Mill Historic Site is a unique attraction that offers a glimpse into the past. Visitors can explore the historic mill, which dates back to the mid-1800s, and learn about the history of the area. The site also features several hiking trails, a picnic area, and a gift shop that sells locally made crafts and souvenirs.
Additional Information:
Admission: Free
Hours: Open daily from dawn to dusk
Address: 5845 GA-2, Dalton, GA 30721
Phone: (706) 694-6455
FAQs:
Can I tour the historic mill at Prater’s Mill Historic Site?
Yes, guided tours of the historic mill are available on select days. Visitors can also take a self-guided tour at any time.
Is there a fee to hike the trails at Prater’s Mill Historic Site?
No, there is no fee to hike the trails at Prater’s Mill Historic Site. The trails are open to the public free of charge.
10. Just Jump Trampoline Park
For those looking for a fun and active way to spend an afternoon, the Just Jump Trampoline Park is a must-visit destination in Dalton. The park boasts a massive indoor trampoline area where visitors of all ages can bounce, flip, and jump to their heart’s content. In addition to the trampolines, the park also offers a foam pit, dodgeball area, and basketball hoops, making it a great spot for group events and birthday parties.
Additional Information:
The park offers special discounts for groups and hosts private events.
Visitors must sign a waiver before jumping.
The park provides socks with each admission to ensure the trampolines stay clean.
FAQs:
Q: Is there an age limit for jumping at Just Jump Trampoline Park?
A: There is no age limit, but children under the age of six must be accompanied by an adult.
Q: Can I bring my own food and drinks to the park?
A: Outside food and drinks are not allowed in the park, but the park offers snacks and drinks for purchase.
11. Dug Gap Park
Located on the west side of Dalton, Dug Gap Park is a scenic outdoor destination with beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. The park boasts a large playground area, picnic tables, and a paved walking trail perfect for an afternoon stroll. Visitors can also hike up the nearby mountain for a more challenging outdoor adventure.
Additional Information:
The park offers a disc golf course with free admission.
Restrooms and drinking fountains are available on-site.
The park is open from sunrise to sunset.
FAQs:
Q: Are there any fees to use the playground or walking trail at Dug Gap Park?
A: No, both the playground and walking trail are free to use.
Q: Is the hiking trail up the mountain difficult?
A: Yes, the trail is steep and can be challenging, so visitors should be prepared with appropriate footwear and water.
12. Dug Gap Trailhead
The Dug Gap Trailhead is a popular starting point for hikers looking to explore the nearby mountains. The trailhead offers access to the Pinhoti Trail, a long-distance hiking trail that stretches over 330 miles from Alabama to Georgia. Visitors can hike a portion of the trail for a scenic outdoor adventure with stunning views of the mountains and surrounding forests.
Additional Information:
The trailhead offers a small parking area for visitors.
Visitors should bring plenty of water and be prepared for a challenging hike.
The trailhead is open from sunrise to sunset.
FAQs:
Q: Is the Pinhoti Trail at the Dug Gap Trailhead suitable for beginner hikers?
A: The trail is best suited for experienced hikers as it can be steep and challenging.
Q: Are pets allowed on the trail?
A: Yes, pets are allowed on the trail but must be kept on a leash at all times.
13. Lakeshore Dog Park
For those traveling with furry friends, the Lakeshore Dog Park is a great spot for some off-leash fun. The park boasts a large fenced-in area where dogs can run and play, as well as separate sections for small and large dogs. The park also offers plenty of shade, benches for owners, and a doggy water fountain to keep pups hydrated.
Additional Information:
The park is open from dawn to dusk.
Visitors must clean up after their dogs.
The park is free to use.
FAQs:
Q: Are there any restrictions on the types of dogs allowed at Lakeshore Dog Park?
A: No, all dogs are welcome as long as they are up-to-date on their vaccinations and are well-behaved.
14. Whitfield-Murray Historical Society
The Whitfield-Murray Historical Society is dedicated to preserving the rich history and heritage of Whitfield and Murray counties. The society maintains several historic properties and museums, including the Crown Gardens and Archives, which houses a vast collection of artifacts, photographs, and documents that chronicle the region’s past. Visitors can explore exhibits on local history, including the Civil War and the Trail of Tears, as well as attend lectures and educational programs. The Society also offers walking tours of the historic district of Dalton and organizes special events throughout the year, such as the annual Civil War reenactment.
Additional Information:
Address: 715 Chattanooga Ave, Dalton, GA 30720
Hours of operation: Monday to Friday 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM, Saturday & Sunday Closed
Admission fee: Free, donations are welcome
Website: Visit Here – http://www.whitfield-murrayhistoricalsociety.org/
FAQs:
Q: What is the Crown Gardens and Archives?
A: The Crown Gardens and Archives is a museum and research facility that houses a collection of artifacts, photographs, and documents that chronicle the region’s past.
Q: Are there guided tours available?
A: Yes, the society offers guided walking tours of the historic district of Dalton.
15. Haig Mill Lake
Haig Mill Lake is a popular spot for fishing and outdoor recreation. The lake is stocked with a variety of fish, including bass, catfish, and trout, making it an ideal destination for anglers. Visitors can also rent paddle boats, kayaks, and canoes to explore the lake’s tranquil waters or take a leisurely walk along the scenic trails that wind through the park. The park also features picnic areas and a playground, making it a great spot for a family day out.
Additional Information:
Address: 652 Haigmill Lk Rd, Dalton, GA 30721
Hours of operation: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM daily
Admission fee: $5 per car, $20 per bus or van
Website: https://www.daltonparks.com/parks/haig-mill-lake-park
FAQs:
Q: Can I bring my own boat to Haig Mill Lake?
A: Yes, visitors can bring their own boats to the lake. There is a boat ramp available for public use.
Q: Is fishing allowed at Haig Mill Lake?
A: Yes, fishing is allowed at Haig Mill Lake. Visitors can purchase a fishing permit at the park’s office or online.
16. Mack Gaston Community Center
The Mack Gaston Community Center is a hub for recreational and community activities in Dalton. The center offers a range of facilities, including a gymnasium, indoor pool, fitness center, and multipurpose rooms for events and meetings. Visitors can take part in group fitness classes, swim lessons, and sports leagues, or simply enjoy the center’s amenities on their own.
Additional Information:
Address: 218 North Fredrick Street, Dalton, GA 30721
The Mack Gaston Community Center is open from 9 AM to 9 PM on Thursdays, Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays. On Fridays and Saturdays, the center is open from 9 AM to 6 PM, but it is closed on Sundays.
Admission fee: Varies by activity; see website for details
Website: Visit Here.
FAQs:
Q: Can I rent the facilities at Mack Gaston Community Center for a private event?
A: Yes, the center offers rental of its multipurpose rooms and gymnasium for private events. Contact the center for availability and pricing.
Q: Are there any age restrictions for using the facilities at Mack Gaston Community Center?
A: Children under the age of 12 must be accompanied by an adult at all times while using the center’s facilities. Some activities, such as the fitness center and indoor pool, may have additional age restrictions.
17. Creative Arts Guild
The Creative Arts Guild is a non-profit arts organization that has been serving the Dalton community for over 50 years. The guild offers classes and workshops in a variety of art forms, including painting, pottery, dance, and music. Visitors can also enjoy the guild’s galleries, which feature rotating exhibits by local and regional artists.
Additional Information:
Address: 520 West Waugh Street, Dalton, GA 30720
The Creative Arts Guild is open from 10 AM to 7 PM on Thursdays, Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays. On Fridays, the guild is open from 10 AM to 4 PM, but closed on Saturdays and Sundays.
Admission fee: Free; classes and workshops may have a fee
Website: https://creativeartsguild.org/
FAQs:
Q: Do I need to be an experienced artist to take a class at the Creative Arts Guild?
A: No, the guild offers classes for all levels, from beginners to experienced artists.
Q: Can I purchase artwork at the Creative Arts Guild?
A: Yes, the guild’s galleries feature artwork that is available for purchase.
Conclusion
Dalton, Georgia is a small city that packs a big punch when it comes to things to see and do. From outdoor adventures to cultural experiences, there is something for everyone in this charming Southern town.
Whether you are looking to explore the great outdoors, learn about local history and culture, or simply relax and unwind, Dalton has plenty to offer. We hope this travel guide has given you some inspiration for your next visit to this hidden gem of a city.
So, pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready to discover all that Dalton, Georgia has to offer!