Lake Allatoona and the surrounding area have a rich history that includes a Civil War battle and the settlement and removal of Native Americans. As a consequence, there are a variety of museums and historic sites for you to visit while staying at Lake Allatooona.

The bloody battle of Allatoona Pass took place here during the Civil War on October 5, 1864. Follow the Allatoona Pass Civil War Interpretative Trail in Red Top Mountain State Park to find out detailed information about the battle, or visit the museum in the Lake Allatoona Visitor's Center to find out more information about the area's role in the Civil War.

Other museums you might enjoy around the Cartersville area include the Booth Western Art Museum, the Bartow History Center, the Rose Lawn Museum, and the new TELLUS: Northwest Georgia Science Museum.

The area was also home to the Etowah Indians. Find out more about the Native Americans while visiting the Etowah Indian Mounds Historic Site in Cartersville, Georgia.