How to Spend a Day in Canton

Jul 25, 2025

Despite its small-town feel, there’s far more to see and do in Canton than one day allows. Still, if you’re just passing through, we’ve mapped out our single-day must-dos that capture the spirit of our town and will have you planning your next visit before you’ve even left.

Morning

First, Coffee...

Skip the corporate coffee chains and start your morning with a local brew from one of Canton’s standout coffee spots. Near the hotels in Riverstone, Stitch Coffee is a new addition that just opened this year and has already become a community favorite.

Looking for options Downtown? Head to Whitetail Coffee at The Mill or grab a cup of “Good Mood Juice” from Bizarre Coffee, just off East Main Street. Fun fact: Bizarre has their own coffee roasting facility right here in Downtown Canton!

In South Canton, our newest coffee shop, Café Floralia, is conveniently located near exit 14 off I-575.

Wherever you wake up in Canton, a great cup of freshly roasted coffee is never far.

Discover Historic Downtown

Coffee in hand, take a stroll through Historic Downtown Canton and soak in the small-town charm. Many of the buildings here date back to the late 1800s and now house locally owned boutiques and restaurants. At the heart of it all is Cannon Park, complete with its iconic gazebo - the perfect spot for a photo. Time your visit right and you might catch a show at the Historic Canton Theatre, a beautifully restored art deco venue that’s been part of the Downtown landscape since 1911. No visit to Canton is complete without a walk through Downtown.

Afternoon

History Cherokee Museum & Visitors Center

Want to learn more about Canton and its surroundings? Consider stopping at the Cherokee County History Center, which is home to the History Cherokee Museum and Cherokee County Visitors Center! The museum is packed with interactive exhibits that bring local history to life for visitors of all ages. Alternatively, the Visitors Center is a great place to pick up free guides, maps, and info on nearby attractions. While you're there, be sure to browse the gift shop where you might just find the perfect piece of Cherokee County to take home.

Explore Canton's Parks & Trails

If spending time outside is more your scene, you'll love Canton's world-class parks and trails throughout the City. Our parks feature large recreational spaces, free-to-use sporting facilities, playgrounds, and so much more, making them the perfect spot to unplug and connect with the outdoors. Want to make sure you hit your step goal? Our walking trails at Etowah River Park, Heritage Park, and Boling Park each provide a scenic escape along the Etowah River. Whether you're out for a quick walk or planning a full afternoon outside, Canton’s parks make it easy to enjoy the outdoors at your own pace.

Evening

The Mill on Etowah

Did you know Canton was once home to one of the world’s largest producers of denim? Built in 1900, the Canton Cotton Mill gained global recognition for its high-quality "Canton Denim" until production ended in 1981. Today, the historic site lives on as The Mill on Etowah - a revitalized space featuring shops, restaurants, event venues, and a local brewery. More than 125 years later, The Mill remains a defining part of Canton’s story. From live music on the green to pop-up markets, there’s always something happening at The Mill.

Dinner Downtown

Ask anyone who has been to Canton and they'll all agree; Canton is a foodie's paradise. Wrap up your day in Canton with a memorable meal at one of our many acclaimed restaurants in and around Downtown Canton. With options for every taste and occasion, we wouldn’t blame you for planning your next visit to Canton around the food alone. Check out our full dining directory HERE and see why Canton is considered one of the hottest dining destinations in North Georgia.

There's so much more...

This one-day itinerary just scratches the surface of what Canton has to offer. From seasonal events and local festivals to hidden gems tucked throughout the City, there’s always something new to discover. Be sure to check out our events calendar and follow us on Facebook and Instagram for inspiration on your next visit to Canton.

Author

Michael Loizou

Digital Content Specialist; City of Canton, GA

Send An Email