Canton, Georgia

Canton is a progressive little city located between the Blue Ridge Mountains and Atlanta, with a population that nearly tripled in the decade between 2000 and 2010. Today, it is home to just over 29,000 people, according to official estimates, but it is "outside the perimeter," allowing a casual, country vibe. Canton is the Cherokee County seat and straddles Interstate 575 and Highway 20, offering easy access to cities in several directions. But residents cherish the views, city parks and the Etowah River that meanders through town.

Parks and trails are an important part of the Canton lifestyle. Hiking and biking trails punctuate the parks and surrounding foothills, and pleasant weather finds residents picnicking on a regular basis. Canton's extensive park system is designed for recreation and exercise as well as for green space and beauty. Canton is only about 40 miles north of downtown Atlanta, with the Georgia Outlet Mall not far away. Marietta marks a convenient halfway point. A bit southeast of Canton, the Alpharetta and Roswell offer more shopping and recreational opportunities.

Life in Canton is filled with activities designed to foster a sense of community. Summer concerts and kids' movies are held in the parks. Canton hosts an annual downtown art and wine walk, a chili cookoff, and extravagant holiday celebrations. A monthly First Friday program features food, live music, a car show and local shopping. A much-loved seasonal Farmers Market showcases produce and other goods from local farmers and artisans.

Canton was founded following the Georgia gold rush, in what was the heart of the Cherokee Nation. Its history is interwoven with the Trail of Tears as well as the Civil War. Originally known as Etowah, it would later be christened Canton, after the Chinese city, by a group of setters with hopes of creating a center for the silk industry. Instead it became a thriving mill town, known for its Canton Denim.