Valdese has a strong heritage with the Waldenses from Italy settling the town in 1893. The town has a 300 acre park on Lake Rhodhiss (parking, restrooms, dog park, kayak launch, fishing pier, trails) and is home to the first two miles of the Burke River Trail. The 10-foot wide crushed cinder trail connects Valdese Lakeside Park with McGalliard Falls Park with a 160-foot suspension bridge. Several restaurants are located on Main Street.