Top 15 Must-Explore Attractions in Canton, GA

Canton, Georgia, serves as the county seat of Cherokee County, located in the northern region of the state. Named after Canton (currently Guangzhou) in China, it boasts a population of approximately 22,000 residents and is situated 65 km north of Atlanta.

The city occupies the traditional lands of the Cherokee people, with the tribe forcibly relocated west of the Mississippi River during the 1830s.

By the time of the American Civil War, only a modest population of about 200 European-American settlers inhabited the area. However, this did not prevent Canton from being destroyed by Union forces.

Despite these historical challenges, Canton has developed into a vibrant cultural center with its distinctive character. A blend of historic and natural attractions, the region presents numerous points of interest, notably including Atlanta itself.

Below are the most noteworthy activities and attractions in and around Canton, Georgia.

1. Cherokee County Courthouse

This historic courthouse, constructed in 1928 from grey-white stone, has been included in the National Register of Historic Places since 1981. It replaced an earlier structure that was destroyed by fire.

The design adheres to the Greek Revival architectural style, which was notably prevalent during its construction. Uniquely, it is one of the few courthouses in Georgia built using local marble rather than traditional brick.

Beyond its role as a functioning courthouse and jail, the building houses a museum dedicated to the history of Canton and Cherokee County.

2. Hickory Log Creek Reservoir

The Hickory Log Creek Reservoir is accessible via the junction at Bluff Parkway and Fate Conn Road, encompassing over 160 hectares and featuring nearly 25 km of scenic shoreline.

Although it is almost entirely encircled by the city, the reservoir is not officially part of Canton, a distinction that often goes unnoticed by visitors.

Anglers will appreciate the reservoir, which has been stocked with various fish species, including bream, catfish, and bass.

Additionally, it is a favored destination for canoeists and kayakers, providing ample opportunities to explore its hidden areas.

3. Canton Theatre

Located in downtown Canton, this theatre has operated intermittently for over a century.

Initially showcasing silent films, it adopted an art deco style following renovations in the late 1930s.

Now functioning as a community-based nonprofit, the auditorium features plays, musicals, concerts, and a variety of performances, ensuring that local residents can enjoy Broadway-caliber shows without needing to commute to Atlanta.

4. Etowah Water Trail

The Etowah River traverses northern Georgia for 262 km, effectively dividing Canton. The accompanying water trail extends along its entire length, including the segment that passes through Canton.

Etowah River Park, equipped with a boat ramp, enables easy access to the water without leaving the city limits.

A paddler’s delight, the water trail showcases pristine woodlands and rural scenery that epitomize Southern charm. For beginners, the route presents manageable challenges interspersed with stunning views.

5. Marietta National Cemetery

Located about 30 minutes to the south of Canton, Marietta National Cemetery is part of the U.S. national cemetery system, offering burial sites for veterans and distinguished Americans.

Founded in 1866, the cemetery aimed to inter both Union and Confederate soldiers side by side to symbolize national reunification following the Civil War; however, this plan was ultimately dismissed.

As a result, the grounds primarily contain graves of Union soldiers who perished during the Battle for Atlanta, while the Marietta Confederate Cemetery serves the soldiers from the opposing side.

Among its many notable monuments, one honors the soldiers from Wisconsin who fought in the Civil War, and another commemorates those who perished during the Pearl Harbor attack in World War II.

6. Reformation Brewery

This burgeoning craft brewery originated in the metropolitan Atlanta area, founded by brewers dedicated to creating high-quality, authentic beers in various styles.

The Canton taproom offers an inviting atmosphere for patrons to taste their latest creations, alongside some established favorites.

Selections include barrel-aged imperial stouts, wine-inspired winter sours, Belgian-style tripels, and German wheat beers, ensuring a wide array of options.

7. Chattahoochee National Forest

Chattahoochee National Forest is a protected region within Georgia’s section of the Blue Ridge Mountains, located about 45 minutes north of Canton.

Spanning over 300 square kilometers, the forest provides ample opportunities for exploration amid its picturesque landscapes and the distinctive blue-hued trees that characterize the area.

Hikers will be pleased to know that the forest harbors an extensive network of trails. Furthermore, wildlife enthusiasts can observe diverse species that inhabit the forest, including black bears and coyotes.

For those with mobility challenges, the 800-meter paved path leading to Anna Ruby Falls ensures accessibility to this natural wonder.

8. Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History

The Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History, located in nearby Kennesaw, intertwines the narratives of the Civil War and the American railroad system, presenting a fascinating perspective on both topics.

Housed in a former cotton spinning barn, the museum features artifacts that convey the struggles and developments of the era, providing insightful commentary on the war’s causes and implications.

One of the museum’s largest exhibits is the steam engine known as the General, famously involved in the Great Locomotive Chase during the war.

The chase began when Union spies commandeered the General with intentions to disrupt Southern railways, leading to a pursuit by Confederate forces using another engine named the Texas.

Kennesaw is roughly 30 minutes south of Canton.

9. Gone with the Wind Museum

Located in Marietta, the Gone with the Wind Museum is an essential visit for enthusiasts of film and literature.

Featuring an array of artifacts associated with author Margaret Mitchell and the iconic film starring Clark Gable and Vivien Leigh, the museum houses pieces such as Scarlett O’Hara’s honeymoon gown and original scripts and artwork.

Housed in Brumby Hall, established in 1851, the museum also addresses historic inequities by highlighting the contributions of the film’s African-American cast members, who were unable to attend the premiere due to segregation laws.

10. Etowah Indian Mounds Historic Site

Travel approximately 40 minutes southwest from Canton to reach the Etowah Indian Mounds Historic Site, located along the northern bank of the Etowah River.

This significant archaeological site served as a major center for the Native American Mississippi Culture approximately between 1000 and 1500 AD.

Renowned as one of the most intact sites of its kind in the southeastern United States, it features three primary platform mounds along with three smaller structures.

The tallest of these is entirely man-made, rising about 20 meters above the surrounding landscape, equivalent to a six-story building.

The onsite museum showcases numerous artifacts uncovered during excavations, including statues, pottery, and jewelry.

11. Dixie Speedway

Dixie Speedway, located in Woodstock, is a classic southern speedway where the sounds of enthusiastic fans and revving engines fill the air during races.

Notable for its clay oval track, races at Dixie Speedway feature dramatic driving maneuvers, as vehicles navigate challenges of drifting and sliding throughout the course.

Weekly and national touring stock car races, as well as motorcycle events, showcase the skills required to maneuver under such conditions.

Additionally, the speedway hosts monster car rallies and concerts, making it a multifaceted entertainment venue just 20 minutes from Canton.

12. Canton Farmers Market

Although Canton is conveniently located near downtown Atlanta and a variety of surrounding cities, it is also adjacent to agricultural lands that supply many foods cherished nationwide.

While independent grocery stores feature various prominent Georgia brands, Canton Farmers Market stands out as the perfect venue to connect with local farmers.

Vendors at the market offer a wide range of products, from fresh fruits and vegetables to gourmet chocolates and baked goods. Additionally, local artisans present handcrafted goods, and visitors can enjoy live music and cooking demonstrations.

13. Centennial Olympic Park

Among the numerous impressive attractions in Atlanta, the Centennial Olympic Park has significantly enhanced the city’s appeal in recent years.

Established as a lasting tribute to the 1996 Atlanta Summer Olympic Games, the park’s name recalls the centenary of the first modern Olympics held in Athens, Greece.

Occupying nine hectares in the downtown area, the park features the renowned Fountain of Rings, which includes 251 computer-controlled water jets that rhythmically dance to music daily, shooting up to ten meters high.

To reach the park, travel south for approximately 45 minutes.

14. Tanglewood Farm

For those preferring a more intimate animal experience, Tanglewood Farm in Canton offers an engaging petting zoo showcasing smaller farm animals in a serene rural setting.

Often referred to as metropolitan Atlanta’s premier miniature petting zoo, Tanglewood Farm is home to over 100 animals, including pygmy goats and Scottish Shetland sheep. Visitors can also explore a Wild West replica town featuring a bank, jail, and trading post.

In contrast, Cagle’s Family Farm, dating back to 1935, provides more traditional farm experiences such as milking demonstrations, tractor rides, and various seasonal activities.

15. Blankets Creek Trail System

For those looking to swap animals for bikes, the Blankets Creek Trail System offers seven distinct biking trails, three of which are ideal for beginners navigating off-road for the first time.

The remaining four trails cater to intermediate and advanced riders, including one 250-meter expert track.

Along with challenging biking experiences, the trails provide breathtaking views of the Etowah River. To arrive, undertake a brief 15 km journey south, whether by biking or driving.