Rhea County is perhaps best known as the 1925 site of the Scopes "Monkey Trial," when local high school science teacher John T. Scopes was charged with teaching about evolution in violation of state law.

William Jennings Bryan and Clarence Darrow were among the attorneys who argued the case, which made headlines across the nation. Bryan died in Dayton, the county seat, only five days after the trial's conclusion. Bryan College opened five years later in Dayton as a memorial to Bryan.

Each summer the Rhea County Courthouse holds a Scopes Trial Play & Festival.

Other Attractions & Events in Dayton are:

The annual Tennessee Strawberry Festival
http://www.tnstrawberryfestival.com/index.html

"Christmas at the Courthouse" - held each December