Cherokee County - 13 Attractions You Must Visit

Canton, is a delightful town steeped in historic charm. Once a Native American settlement, Canton slowly developed into a thriving industrial center by the mid 20th century. Home to numerous parks and award-winning cultural hubs, Canton has grown to be one of the best places to live in not only the County but the State as well. With its many bustling markets, lively festivals and spectacular scenery, you can easily fall in love with everything this gem of town has to offer.

The Canton Theatre has been entertaining audiences for over 80 years. Built in 1943, its beautiful Art Deco façade was a classic from the start. Inside, patrons are greeted by state of the art digital projection and sound that rivals any major theater. In addition to popular movie releases, it also hosts concerts, plays and special events throughout the year. Its concession stand offers handcrafted sodas and snacks made right at the theatre.

Etowah River Park is a natural oasis boasting lush forests, mountain views, and the cool waters of the Etowah river, this park is a great spot for a quick stroll or an afternoon of relaxation. The park features two miles of trails that are perfect for walking and biking. Amenities include several picnic areas, playgrounds and ample parking. Nature enthusiasts can take advantage of the abundant birdwatching opportunities or catch a glimpse of local wildlife.

The Funk Heritage Center is a vibrant learning center dedicated to preserving the history and culture of early Appalachian settlers. Located on the Reinhardt University campus, the Funk Heritage Center houses an expansive collection of artifacts, documents, photographs and art that tell the story of indigenous people like those who originally populated this region. The Center also offers educational programming that delves deeper into local history through lectures and events.

The Georgia National Cemetery is a special place of respite and remembrance. Opened in 2007 to honor the nation's veterans, the cemetery is located on 97 acres of hills and valleys that are perfect for reflection. It features winding roads, memorials, statues, and flags as well as ceremonial gardens where visitors can pay tribute to their country's heroes. The cemetery also includes several designated areas to accommodate various religious and civil services.

Gibbs Gardens, is an amazing place to experience the beauty of nature. With over 220 acres of breathtaking landscapes, it features 20 awe-inspiring garden areas filled with sculptures, fountains, and walking paths. Guests can marvel at vibrant blooming gardens with more than 50,000 azaleas in thirty varieties that make up the world's largest azalea garden during springtime. They can also celebrate each of the four seasons among thousands of camellias, daylilies, magnolias, and rhododendrons.

Heritage Park is a sprawling park area with something for everyone. From hiking trails that take visitors past creeks and old homesteads, to expansive playgrounds and picnic areas perfect for a family outing, Heritage Park is an ideal escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The marina provides canoeing, fishing and other recreational boating activities while the amphitheater offers numerous outdoor performances throughout the year.

The Hickory Log Creek Reservoir is an invaluable natural resource. It stands out thanks to its oxygen-rich waters and broad range of wildlife, making it a popular spot for fishing, canoeing, and other recreational activities. In addition, the reservoir provides the nearby community with clean drinking water from deep aquifers located beneath it. The reservoir also has flood protection benefits and is home to a diverse array of birds and other wildlife species.

Hickory Trails Park delivers outdoor recreation accessible to all visitors. Featuring a wide variety of on-site activities such as fishing, camping, and biking, the park also offers plenty of opportunity for exploration and relaxation. With scenic views from the trails, you can experience nature from the sun up until nightfall surrounded by green meadows. For those who are interested in bird-watching, Hickory Trails is even home to some local species that can be seen flittering around.

Lake Arrowhead, is a lush paradise featuring stunning rolling hills, lush forests and mountains. It's a popular destination for hikers, bicyclists and anglers looking to take advantage of the many trails and wilderness areas found within the area. The lake is the perfect spot for boating with friends or family; its beautiful still waters provide a peaceful atmosphere to relax during warm summer days. Other activities around Lake Arrowhead include visiting nearby historic sites.

Lewis Park is a beautiful destination for those looking for a serene and peaceful escape. From fishing, canoeing, and kayaking to scenic nature trails, Lewis Park has something to offer everyone. The picnic shelters are perfect for outdoor barbecues or casual family outings. The park also features multiple playgrounds that have recently been upgraded with modern equipment—giving children plenty of opportunities to have fun outdoors.

Olde Rope Mill Park is a beautiful outdoor space features over 50 acres of nature trails, woodlands and wetland areas, along with historical structures like an 1820 pre-civil war mill. Visitors can enjoy a variety of recreational activities such as picnicking, paddle boating and kayaking on the Etowah River, or fishing and biking on one of the nature trails. Those looking for more adventure can climb the stunning 80-foot Observation Tower to take in the amazing views of Lake Allatoona.

Pine Log Mountain is a special place boasting breathtaking views and trails for hiking, camping and more, it's not hard to fall in love with this picturesque location. Standing at 1,624 feet above sea level on the highest point in the county, you can experience stunning panoramic vistas from its summit surrounded by lush forests. And if that weren't enough, Pine Log also has plenty of outdoor activities for adventurers--from creek-side fishing and rock hunting to ATV riding and birding.