Famous for being the setting of the Scopes "Monkey Trial" in 1925, which focused on the battle between evolution and creationism, the charming small town of Dayton is also known for several popular annual festivals.
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FISHING MECCAThe city of Dayton and surrounding Rhea County bill themselves as the “New Bass Fishing Capital of the South,” and in the past few years the area has played host to several major tournaments, such as the 2014 Bassmaster BASSfest, American Bass Anglers Weekend Series, Heartland Anglers Classic and the 2013 Walmart FLW Tour.>Bassmaster Magazine named Chickamauga Lake, known for its giant bass, the third-best for bass fishing in the Southeast in 2016. At Chattanooga Bass Association’s March derby, two fish weighed in at more than 10 pounds each.Dayton Boat Dock & Grill offers lake access and a professional bait shop stocked by Bass Pro Shop. Call 423-428-9090 to learn more.
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*FIND A WATERFALL*Laurel-Snow State Natural Area is a popular spot for hiking, mountain biking and birding.*You can choose from two different waterfall options:The Laurel-Snow Trail is a 6.3-mile out-and-back trail that takes around three hours round-trip. Accessible March-October, the trail’s highlights are the 80-foot Laurel Falls and Bryan Overlook, named for Williams Jennings Bryan, of Scopes trial fame.A longer, but easier, hike that’s accessible February-November is the 8.3-mile trek to Snow Falls.*There are several spots to swim near the trails and areas to camp close to the falls, and many people choose to hike to one of the falls, spend the night and hike to the other falls the following day.*>Visitors are welcome to take dogs, but be sure to bring leashes for them.
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GOOD EATSHidden away in an unassuming strip mall, Vietnamese Bistro is a family-run restaurant worth seeking out for its fresh fare, and is known for its spring rolls.Bimbo’s serves homestyle eats and burgers 24/7.Enjoy waterfront views over classic American and seafood dishes at Jacob Myers Restaurant on the River.Monkey Town Brewing Co. is a small craft brewery in downtown Dayton that features live music Monday nights.* Vietnamese Bistro: Rhea Towne Place, 200 Able Drive #11; 423-570-0100* Bimbo’s: 7606 Rhea County Hwy.; 423-775-6353* Jacob Myers Restaraunt on the River: 185 Chickamauga Drive; 423-570-0023* Monkey Town Brewing Co.: 287 First Ave.; 423-775-1800
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*FUN FESTIVITIESThe Tennessee Strawberry Festival draws a crowd each May for its carnival atmosphere, pie contest and craft vendors.The annual Scopes Festival is held in July and features speakers and historic discussions along with fun for families.Christmas at the Courthouse in early December carries on the annual tradition of a horse-and-carriage parade followed by candlelight caroling at the Rhea County Courthouse.