Dalton is often referred to as the "Carpet Capital of the World" due to its high production of the needed textiles, but little did you know this little gem located in North West Georgia has more to offer than just floor-covering manufacturers. Throughout the past two and half years, I've had the opportunity to discover what Dalton has to offer and found some pretty notable places. Here are just a few of the MUST GO spots!

1. Willie's Burger & Fish Fry

Willie's is an authentic hole-in-the-wall restaurant that attracts all kinds of taste buds with its endless options from the famous po'boys to its fresh catfish and jumbo shrimp. Make sure you stop by at one point or another throughout the week as they are open from Monday to Saturday from 9:30 AM to 9:00 PM! Willie's is located at 301 W Emery St. in Downtown Dalton.

2. Buckin' Burrito

Opened in 2013, this Tex-Mex is a popular hot-spot for the college kids (myself included) since they offer a student discount AND the popular bonus card that gives you a FREE burrito for every five you buy! Make your way downtown and stop by at 212 N Hamilton St. any day between 11:00 AM and 9:00 PM.

3. Bucket List, Antiques & Collectibles LLC

With their eye-catching slogan, "What is on your list?", this cute little antique shop definitely caught my attention on a sunny afternoon walk. There is definitely something for everyone in here, but if you aren't the shopping kind simply stop by outside and leave your mark on the popular "Before I die" mural right outside the shop. Inspired by the original artist: Candy Chang (New Orleans), 1000 Words - Dalton Public Art Project is to give credit for putting up such an inspiring mural. The Bucket List is open Monday through Saturday from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM and located is located at 300 N Hamilton St. in Downtown Dalton.

4. The Sweet Spot

Another popular hot-spot for college students is this trendy frozen yogurt shop. The Sweet Spot offers delicious cold treats that are constantly changing in flavors giving you many options to choose from. Recently, they have started to offer sandwiches and soups for lunch. Best part? Bring your student ID and get a discount! Whether you're going out on a date or catching up with friends, the sweet spot is the place to be at. Open every day of the week, make sure to get your treat anytime from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM located at 336 S Hamilton St.

5. Dave & Pauli's Art Emporium Gallery

... AND MORE! If you find yourself walking downtown or having lunch at Buckin' Burrito, make sure you stop by and chat with Dave and Pauli about their gallery and get to know them. Even if it is just for five minutes, they will NOT disappoint. Art that will leave you speechless and an open space for you and your peers to enjoy conversation or a cup of coffee. Dave and Pauli help Dalton come alive through their spirits and vision. Check out their upcoming show on Friday, April 29th at 7:00 PM featuring Mike Holsomback ("Retrospective with a preview of the future"). The gallery can be found on 218 N Hamilton St. and it's open on Wednesday, Friday, and Saturdays until 6:00 PM!

6. The Perfect Cup

Hiding away on 112 W Crawford St., you'll find this nonchalant restaurant and coffee shop. Whether you're craving a homemade breakfast or a simple cup of coffee, this place is worth stopping by. As I was taking a few photographs, an old man stopped me and said I needed to know what I was taking a picture of. He proceeded to tell me this building was one of the oldest in Dalton and how proud he was to have seen it transition from early childhood. It is always refreshing to get a sense of history through small adventures! The Perfect Cup is open Monday through Friday from 7:30 AM until 4:30 PM. Make sure to try the frozen Chai latte, my favorite!

7. The Emery Center

Formerly known as Emery Street School was the first black school in Dalton. Today, the Emery Center serves as an African American Heritage and Multicultural Center. It is run by Mr. Curtis Rivers, an extraordinary man who actively works in promoting diversity and making Dalton a better place (he's so important he made it on the wall!). I had the pleasure of meeting him on an event trip to the center to celebrate Black History Month, and I highly recommend taking the time to walk through the museum with him to get a better understanding of history through his experiences. The Emery Center is open Monday through Thursdays by appointment only and Fridays from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

8. The Filling Station

With a constantly changing menu, this stop is a MUST! Make sure you plan ahead since it is only open from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM on Mondays through Fridays and 10:30 AM to 2:00 PM on Sundays. The Filling Station is known for their to die for all you can eat buffet. If you love southern comfort food, this is the place for YOU! Location: 316 N Hamilton St.

9. Fantasy Factory

Opened since 1979, this comic book store is located at 257 N Hamilton St. Let your inner dork explore the endless variety of comic books, card, and board games! Whether you're a DC or Marvel fan, you'll find your favorite here! The store is opened Monday through Friday from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM and until 4:00 PM on Saturdays.

10. Dalton Distillery

Stop by and try homemade moonshine! With a recipe over one hundred years old and FREE samples, the family tradition still lives through Chuck and Raymond Butler. Stay updated through their facebook page for upcoming events and live music! The fairly new distillery is located at 109 E Morris St and is open from Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM or later during special events.

11. Hamilton's Food & Spirits

Check out Hamilton's homemade pizza for half-off on Tuesdays with your college ID! This is the perfect place for a late night snack, dinner for two, or girl's night out! It is open until 11:00 PM from Monday through Thursday and until 2:00 AM on Fridays and Saturdays. Location: 243 N Hamilton St.

12. Adventurer's Books and More...

Explore the newest bookstore in Downtown Dalton at 267 N Hamilton St. Thanks to Alex Smith and Andy Beard this cute little shop gives us a fun and entertaining space to hang out. Open on Tuesdays through Saturdays from 10:00 Am to 8:00 PM.

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These are just a few of my favorite places, what are yours!? The list is endless! Have fun exploring!