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If you live in LaFayette, Georgia, or even if you just pass through occasionally, chances are, you’ve heard of the Dari Dip. It’s the little white building at 302 W. Villanow Street , the one that’s been dishing out burgers and ice cream since Eisenhower was in office. The place where high school kids used to sneak off to for lunch and where their grandkids now sit in the same booths, eating the same banana splits. The Dari Dip, a LaFayette tradition since 1953. (Photos courtesy of The Dari Dip) The Dari Dip opened in 1953, back when a good meal didn’t come with a QR code. The original building was a walk-up stand, the kind of place where you ordered at the window, grabbed your food, and sat in the parking lot with the windows rolled down. The high school was just around the corner then, and students practically considered the place their second homeroom. Fred Travillian, banana split connoisseur (Picture courtesy of Downtown LaFayette, GA Social Media One of those kids was Fred Travillian, who first came to the Dari Dip in 1962. “It wasn’t really cutting out,” he says. “The teachers knew where we were, and half the time, they’d send us with money to bring something back for them.” Things changed. The high school moved. A fire burned the building down in the ‘90s. But the Dari Dip didn’t disappear. It came right back. The menu got bigger, the booths got added, and eventually, it landed in the hands of Donald Benton, who grew up in the restaurant business. Donald Benton, Owner/Operator (Picture courtesy of Downtown LaFayette, GA Social Media Donald hadn’t exactly planned on running a place like this. He was in college when his dad came to him with the idea of buying the Dari Dip. Donald shrugged and said, “Why not?” That was in 2009, and he hasn’t looked back since. That’s not to say he came in with big ideas. In fact, he didn’t change a thing for the first year. He just watched, learned, and listened. What he figured out was simple—people don’t come to the Dari Dip for surprises. They come because it’s exactly the way they remember it. And the menu? It’s been built by the customers as much as the owners. Sure, you’ve got the classics—the Dari Burger, the square-bun staple that’s been on the menu since the beginning. The hot dogs, the fried chicken livers that have their own cult following. But every now and then, something new sneaks in. Not because Donald was trying to shake things up, but because somebody asked for it, and he figured, again, “Why not?”  That’s how the pimento cheese sandwich ended up on the board. A couple of regulars wouldn’t stop talking about how much they loved pimento cheese, so Donald got their recipe, tweaked it, and now? It’s a favorite. That’s how things work here. It’s like going to your grandmother’s house on a Sunday afternoon. There’s something for everyone, and it’s probably not what you’d expect to be served together—but that’s not really the point. There’s always that one dish made just for you, and if you asked for it last time, there’s a good chance it’s waiting on you the next time you show up. And then there’s dessert. If you leave without ordering ice cream, someone ought to follow you outside and tell you to turn around. The banana split has been around for decades, and people say it tastes just like it did in 1972. The orange sherbet is homemade, smooth and just tart enough to make you pause between bites. And if you walk in on the right day, you might find cheesecake in the cooler. Yes, cheesecake. The best cheesecake in the Southeast? No, you wouldn’t expect a small-town burger stand to have cheesecake worth talking about. And yet, here we are. If you ask anybody who works at the Dari Dip what makes it special, they won’t talk about the menu. They’ll talk about the people. The same regulars show up at the same time every day, ordering the same meals they always have. Most of the staff have been here for years, and if they don’t know your name when you walk in, give it a few weeks. They’ll learn. A few staffers waiting to serve you at the Dari Dip team. Eli, one of the Dari Dip's dedicated employees, put it best: “The most important voice of this entire establishment is our guest. Without them, we’re not anything.” And that’s the truth. The Dari Dip isn’t just about food. It’s about routine. It’s about a place that’s been right there on West Villanow Street for seventy years, still standing while everything around it keeps changing. So if you haven’t been, go. Order a Dari Burger. Maybe a banana split. Take a look around. And if you sit in the right booth, at the right time of day, you just might hear an old-timer explaining to a kid that the banana split still tastes just like it did back in the day. And the kid will probably roll his eyes. And Grandpa will just smile and nod. Smile and nod. Because he knows—some things should never, ever change. For more information about the Dari Dip, follow them on   Facebook   and drop in for a cone at 302 W. Villanow Street, LaFayette, GA.

We’re thrilled to announce the launch of a brand-new section on the Walker Rocks website, dedicated to highlighting the amazing overnight kids camps  available right here in Walker County, GA. Parents, this is your sign to give your kids an unforgettable summer experience while you enjoy a well-deserved, kid-free getaway exploring all that Walker County has to offer. From adventure-packed wilderness camps to creative learning programs, the camps in our area are designed to help kids make lasting memories, learn new skills, and enjoy nature. Whether your child is an aspiring adventurer, artist, or explorer, there’s something special waiting for them at one of our nearby camps. “We’re proud to showcase Walker County as a prime destination for families. With top-tier kids camps right here in our backyard, we’re not just providing opportunities for local families—we’re drawing in visitors from Chattanooga and beyond. Parents can feel confident that their kids are in good hands, and they can enjoy their own relaxing getaway in the area.” Allyson Ford Walker Chamber President Why We’re Excited About This Feature: Connecting Families:  Whether you’re a local parent or visiting from out of town, this guide makes it easier to find the perfect camp that suits your child’s interests. Supporting Local Growth:  As more families come to the area, they’ll discover local businesses, outdoor attractions, and accommodations that make Walker County a true gem. Encouraging Family Fun:  While the kids dive into camp activities, parents can enjoy scenic hikes, wine tastings, and cozy overnight stays nearby. Get Ready to Explore Walker County: Our guide to Overnight Kids Camps  is designed to be your go-to resource for finding the perfect camp experience. You can now browse camp options, plan your child’s adventure, and even coordinate a kid-free vacation for yourself—all in one place. From outdoor adventures to creative programs, find the perfect summer camp near Chattanooga. Discover the top overnight camps for kids! Get Ready to Explore Walker County Our guide to Overnight Kids Camps  is designed to be your go-to resource for finding the perfect camp experience. You can now browse camp options, plan your child’s adventure, and even coordinate a kid-free vacation for yourself—all in one place.

Named by Atlanta Business Chronicle, Lookout Mountain ResortJoins Other Prestigious Properties Across State LOOKOUT MOUNTAIN, Ga. (December 5, 2024) ---  Cloudland at McLemore Resort has garnered another top ranking by making the roster of Georgia’s Top 25 Resorts List by Atlanta Business Chronicle .  Noting the property’s accessibility to McLemore’s Highlands Course as well as to The Keep, the resort’s latest golf offering, Cloudland joins Callaway Gardens, The Cloister at Sea Island and The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee among others on the list. Cloudland at McLemore, a top-25 Georgia resort. Photo by McLemore Resort Mike Burton, Managing Director for Cloudland at McLemore Resort, notes that the property is a year-round travel destination.  “When Cloudland opened in May, we knew the experiences we planned to offer would be a huge compliment to guests coming to the resort. Cloudland is unlike any destination.”  He shared that the resort offers five unique dining experiences ranging from offerings at McLemore’s The Creag to Cloudland’s The Pocket Cafe, Skyside, Croft and high-end offerings from Auld Alliance, where Scottish heritage mixes with French sophistication. Cloudland’s Selah spa provides a welcome to those who’ve experienced a day on the links or hikes throughout Lookout Mountain.    In addition to the latest accolade as a Top Resort in Georgia, McLemore’s Highlands Course also made Golf magazine’s Top 100 List.  This first-time honor for McLemore’s Highlands Course puts them in good stead with Pebble Beach, Trump National Doral, Broadmoor (East), and Kiawah Island, among others on the prestigious list.   For those seeking a different type of experience, 13 navigation maps have been developed by Porsche of Chattanooga to encourage regional exploration to and from the resort. From May through October, McLemore Resort offers the Songwriter’s Series that engages audiences with performances by a diverse offering of artists sharing the stories behind songs loved throughout the years. The Lodge also provides a thoughtfully curated library and collection of original photography taken by artist Kim Hubbard, a Chattanooga native. “The Cloudland at McLemore experience begins as the massive doors open to the view of Pigeon Mountain and McLemore Cove and encourages experiences that are unique to each guest.  This is part and parcel of a visit to this special place.  We are very honored and grateful for this latest acknowledgement by the Atlanta Business Chronicle.”   About Cloudland at McLemore Resort Lookout Mountain, Curio Collection by Hilton Perched atop iconic Lookout Mountain, Ga., Cloudland at McLemore Resort, Curio Collection by Hilton  is Georgia’s first mountaintop luxury hotel. The property offers a truly inspirational experience just waiting to be discovered. With 245 guest rooms, including 21 suites, and 20,000 square feet of state-of-the-art meeting and event space, Cloudland presents an inspired retreat for couples, families, or groups. Cloudland’s unique location highlights the unspoiled simplicity of nature that spans as far as the eye can see. Being steps from the cliff-edge creates a surreal feeling of escape while still being only a few hours’ drive or direct flight for most visitors. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities, including five restaurants, access to two masterfully designed courses - The Highlands and The Keep, and the full-service Selah spa, along with endless opportunities to explore Lookout Mountain and surrounding areas with family and friends.  Access to the outdoors, whether within the gates of McLemore or beyond, is endless, with scenic hikes, rock climbing, road cycling, hang gliding, and more just minutes from Cloudland. Contact: Robin Derryberry (423) 755.7588 Robin@Derryberrypr.com

The Walker Chamber takes immense pride in its members. Each business, regardless of its size, plays a pivotal role in shaping the economic and cultural landscape of Walker County. Chamber Members Dive into the diverse tapestry of businesses that form the backbone of our community. From local artisans to established enterprises, discover the faces and stories behind Walker County's growth. Explore our members. The Strength of Community The Walker Chamber takes immense pride in its members. Each business, regardless of its size, plays a pivotal role in shaping the economic and cultural landscape of Walker County. Here, we celebrate their contributions, stories, and the spirit of entrepreneurship.

See Rock City, Inc. Member Details Discover the diverse and dynamic businesses that form the heart of Walker County on our Chamber Members page. Each member, from local artisans to established enterprises, contributes uniquely to the rich tapestry of our community. < Back to Member List See Rock City, Inc. All, Attractions, Events, Play 1400 Patten Road, Lookout Mountain, GA 30750 706-820-2531 Visit Their Website Send An Email About Us See Rock City, World’s 8th Wonder atop Lookout Mountain, just six miles from downtown Chattanooga! This iconic destination offers stunning views, ancient rock formations, creative installations, and lush natural gardens with over 500 species of plants. Wind through tunnels, tight squeezes and across the towering bridges of the 4,100-foot Enchanted Trail to Lover’s Leap, a cliffside waterfall that overlooks a seven-state view. From there, journey through wondrous realms to Fairyland Caverns, where dioramas of hand-crafted, classic childhood fairytales come to life in UV glowing paints. Rock City offers timed entry, and ticket prices vary based on the day and time you visit. The earlier you purchase your tickets, the more you can save (up to $22 per ticket!). To get the best value, be sure to buy your tickets at least one day in advance. The sooner you book, the more likely you are to find the lowest price available. Reserve your preferred time and save at: seerockcity.com/tickets-and-passes. < Back to Member List

The Walker Chamber takes immense pride in its members. Each business, regardless of its size, plays a pivotal role in shaping the economic and cultural landscape of Walker County. Member Details Discover the diverse and dynamic businesses that form the heart of Walker County on our Chamber Members page. Each member, from local artisans to established enterprises, contributes uniquely to the rich tapestry of our community. Explore their stories, offerings, and the passion they bring to our region. The essence of Walker County's vibrancy and innovation is reflected in the businesses we proudly champion. Visit Website About Us