Poplar Head, as Dothan was once named, was a well used resting place for pioneers traveling from cities such as Jacksonville and Savannah. In 1885, the town incorporated under the name of Dothan.
Visitors to Dothan will be immediately impressed with the unique offerings of the city. Several noteworthy examples can be found around historic downtown. Perhaps most obvious are the huge murals painted around the area. The murals represent people and events that contributed to the development of Dothan and provide a unique backdrop to downtown.
Also of note is the distinctive Peanut Monument. This enormous peanut sculpture helps welcome visitors to Dothan, and confidently proclaims the city as the "Peanut Capitol of the World." To celebrate the ever-popular nut, Dothan hosts the annual National Peanut Festival in October and November. A final curiosity is located at the convergence of North Appletree, Museum and Troy Streets. Here visitors can observe the "World's Smallest City Block" as noted in the Guinness Book of World Records.
Garden enthusiasts will enjoy a stop at the Dothan Area Botanical Gardens. A walk through the Rose Garden, Heirloom Garden and Butterfly Garden is sure to inspire one's green-thumb. For those traveling with little ones, an exciting adventure awaits at Landmark Park. A planetarium, natural science and history center, and nature trails offer something for everyone. You might also make a stop at the park's 1890s living history farm.
Dothan is located in the southeast part of the state, near the boarders of both Georgia and Florida, and the intersection of US Routes 431, 231, and 84.