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Discover culinary delights, rich architecture, outdoor marvels, and a lively night scene.

See the sights that helped create this beautiful thing we call 'soul' on a Guided Van Tour of Macon by clicking the "Book Tour Now" button at the top of the page.

Experience It All In Macon

Where you can hike through beautiful scenery while observing historic Indigenous mounds and experience the state's largest collection of African American history , art, and culture. Stroll down wide avenues lined with art galleries , boutiques, and architecture as diverse as the people who built it. In a city where a night out can mean catching an up-and-coming artist playing outside one of our local eateries, watching a Broadway Play, or learning about our musical heritage at the Allman Brothers Band Museum and Capricorn Sounds. Explore the outdoors by bringing the whole family for a float down the Ocmulgee River or learn why Georgia is the Peach State at any of our local farms and orchards.

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Top 10 Things to Do In Macon

Nestled in the center of the state, not too far from the mountains or ocean, is where the soul of Georgia lives.

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12 great things to do in Macon, Georgia: celebrate this music-loving small town

Mar 13, 2022 • 7 min read

Learn about the legends of rock 'n' roll, blues, and soul with these top things to do in Macon, Georgia © John Coletti / Getty Images

When it comes to impact on American music, the small town of Macon, Georgia, can hang with the best of them. Located less than two hours from Atlanta, Macon is the birthplace of Little Richard and Otis Redding, two titans of rock ‘n’ roll and soul music. 

A sweet melody or a heavy bass is always within earshot, whether you're touring a Native American ceremonial ground, sipping on local craft beer or cheering on the Macon Bacon. Here’s our list of the best things to do in Macon, Georgia. 

Groove to the greats at Capricorn Records 

Macon local, Phil Walden, managed Otis Redding and Percy Sledge before founding Capricorn Records to rival the studios like Stax Records in Memphis and Muscle Shoals Sound Studio in Alabama . 

Walden founded Capricorn Records in the 1960s with Jerry Wexler (formerly of Atlantic Records), and Frank Fenter. After years of success, the company suffered personal and financial setbacks and eventually shuttered in 1980. But in 2019, Mercer University restored Capricorn Records as a museum and music incubator. 

Phil’s legacy along with that of his younger brother Alan, who managed Lynyrd Skynyrd, are told on Rock Candy Tours . Owned by Alan’s daughter – Jessica – and her husband, the walking tours visit landmarks related to the city’s musical history.

Head to the homes of Little Richard and Otis Redding 

Macon is the home of royalty. Otis Redding, the “King of Soul” and Little Richard, the “King of Rock and Roll” were both born and raised in the city before making it big. 

Richard Wayne Penniman, better known as Little Richard, grew up in the Pleasant Hill neighborhood until his hit song “Tutti Frutti” propelled him to stardom. The home was saved from a wrecking ball in 2016 and was even moved a mile from its original spot to make way for an interstate expansion. The home has been restored and is now open for tours by appointment.

Otis Redding lived in Macon until he died in a plane crash in 1967. His family still lives in town and honors his legacy with the Otis Redding Foundation , a downtown storefront and museum. 

Pay your respects to The Allman Brothers Band 

The Allman Brothers Band may have begun their career in Jacksonville, Florida, but the group is forever tied to Macon. It’s where the band hit it big and where most of the members died. 

The group shared a Tudor home in the Vinewood neighborhood with their families. Now, it’s the Allman Brothers Band Museum filled with concert posters, instruments, and clothing. 

Back when the Allman Brothers Band were “starving artists,” owners Inez Hill and Louise Hudson fed the band at their H&H Restaurant on Forsyth St. Known for its mouth-watering fried chicken, this iconic dining spot recently unveiled a mural on the building depicting the band with Inez and Louise.  Downtown Grill is a local steakhouse, originally called Le Bistro, attracted countless celebrities over the years. It’s best remembered as the spot where Gregg Allman proposed to Cher in 1973. 

Following the tragic motorcycle wreck deaths in Macon of Duane Allman in 1971 and Berry Oakley in 1972, the pair were buried at Rose Hill Cemetery , not far from the grave that inspired the song “Little Martha” and the site of the photoshoot for their album Gold. Gregg Allman, who passed in 2017, is also buried there.

Explore even more music history and venues  

Capricorn Studios isn’t the only spot to delve into Macon’s expansive musical history. Built in 1904, the Grand Opera House opened its doors to performers like illusionist Harry Houdini and Russian prima ballerina Anna Pavlova. In later years, musicians Hank Williams and the Allman Brothers Band took top billing.

During the Segregation era, the Douglass Theatre (named after local businessman Charles Douglass) showcased top Black musical acts like jazz maestros Duke Ellington and Cab Calloway, and blues singers Bessie Smith and Ma Rainey. 

Today, the Douglass Theatre hosts events like the HBCU Art Series which promotes performative and visual arts from Historic Black Colleges and Universities.

Tour Macon's Antebellum homes

Macon stops along Georgia's Antebellum Trail, a self-guided route between towns that escaped Sherman's infamous March to the Sea, a military campaign of the American Civil War. Many of the homes are now museums. 

One of the most popular is Hay House – an 1859 Italian Renaissance Revival unlike any other in town. The home includes a double parlor where the family entertained guests and a cupola that overlooks the city, visible from the guided tour.

Cheer on the Macon Bacon

After a 2017 fan contest, Macon’s new minor league baseball team was officially named the Macon Bacon . The Coastal Plains League team plays at historic Luther Williams Field, the site for the Jackie Robinson biopic 42  (2013). The team’s merchandise is a popular souvenir, with actor and muse Kevin Bacon even donning a hat. The team’s mascot, Kevin, is named in honor of him.

Sip on local suds at the Macon Beer Company 

Macon’s breweries follow the tradition of beer that dates back to at least the 1800s. Prohibition nearly ended this legacy, but in 2013, the Macon Beer Company became the first brewery to open in town since America’s “failed experiment.” 

Macon Beer Company has the best burgers in town, along with beers inspired by the city. Macon Love has cherry blossoms on the can, which bloom every spring, and a cherry wine flavor profile. Macon Mounds is a bittersweet porter named for the Ocmulgee Mounds. If you're not into beer, the menu also includes Willy Wonka-esque candy cocktails with house-made spirits. 

Learn about the area’s original residents at the Ocmulgee Mounds National Historic Park

This sacred American Indian site at Ocmulgee Mounds National Historic Park dates back over 17,000 years and has seven ceremonial mounds. Park rangers lead tours of the “Earth Lodge'' – a council chamber dating back over 1000 years. 

The nation’s largest archeological dig took place in Ocmulgee. Archeologists uncovered over 2000 artifacts including arrowheads, pottery, and jewelry. One of the best outdoor activities in Macon is the park’s eight miles of hiking trails. 

Admission is free, except during the Ocmulgee Indian Celebration , which brings together Native American tribes with storytelling, dance, food, and arts and crafts.

Spend a night at the historic Hotel Forty Five 

The Hotel Forty Five is Macon’s first boutique hotel, set in the historic district and named for the 45-degree angle of the cross streets. Perks include a coffee shop and restaurant, along with a rooftop bar overlooking the city and mid-century modern-inspired rooms. It’s also across the street from the Macon City Auditorium, where a young Little Richard caught a transformational performance by guitar icon Sister Rosetta Tharpe.

Catch live music at Grant’s Lounge 

Macon has live musical performances all over town, but Grant's Lounge is a popular spot. Opening its doors in 1971, Grant's was home to early performances by the Allman Brothers Band, Tom Petty, and the Marshall Tucker Band. The self-described "original home of Southern rock" still hosts local musicians such as blues legend Robert Lee Coleman.

Wander through Macon’s museums

The heart of Macon is home to the Georgia Sports Hall of Fame , a sprawling complex with artifacts from Georgia’s college teams, the 1996 Atlanta Olympics, and the professional football, baseball, and soccer teams. See a jug of water from Georgia Southern University’s Eagle Creek and the University of Georgia mascot Uga’s jersey. 

Across the street, the Tubman Museum showcases Black excellence with items related to historic figures. Here you’ll find a sculpture of Harriet Tubman, Little Richard’s piano, and artwork by outsider artist Mister Imagination. The museum also hosts the annual Tubman Museum Pan African Festival of Georgia .

Dine at The Rookery 

There are more than enough places to eat in Macon, but if you only have time for one, it should be The Rookery , which has been part of the community since 1976. 

The casual restaurant has an upper level that overlooks Widespread Panic's stage playing one of their earliest shows. The menu honors Georgia legends with a mushroom and swiss burger named for the Allman Brothers and a Jimmy Carter milkshake made with (what else!) peanut butter. 

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12 Best Things to Do in Macon, Georgia

Located approximately 85 miles south of Atlanta , Macon is located in the dead center of the state, giving the city its moniker: the Heart of Georgia. An easy day trip from Atlanta, the state's fourth-largest city has a population of 150,000 and plenty of activities to offer visitors of all ages. From learning more about the land's first inhabitants at the Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park to digging for fossils at the Museum for Arts & Sciences to exploring nature at Amerson River Park, here are the top 12 things to do in Macon.

Visit the Museum of Arts & Sciences

Courtesy of Museum of Arts & Sciences

With a full-dome planetarium and three floors of exhibitions, this museum is a must-visit. Highlights include nature trails, a mini zoo with over 70 live animals, an extensive collection of butterflies, and an opportunity to dig for fossils under the shadow of an installation of a 40 million-year-old whale fossil, Zygorhiza. The museum is closed on Mondays.

Explore Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park

National Park Service 

Explore 17,000 years of history at the Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park. Situated on 702 acres along Walnut Creek and the Ocmulgee River at the site of the area's first Native American settlement, the national park includes a museum with over 2,000 artifacts ranging from 10,000 B.C. to the 1800s, hiking trails through forests and wetlands offering glimpses of local wildlife, a 1,000-year-old ceremonial Earth Lodge, and an original burial mound, the top of which offers stellar views of the city's downtown.

See a Show at the Grand Opera House

 Getty Images

Formerly known as the Academy of Music and opened in 1884, this historic music hall was converted to a 2,400-seat theater in 1904. It was one of the Southeast's largest performing arts facilities at the time. Similar to the Fox Theatre in Atlanta's Midtown, the space hosts a variety of programming ranging from Broadway shows like The Color Purple to musical acts like the Allman Brothers Band as well as movie nights and holiday traditions like the Nutcracker of Middle Georgia.

Tour the Allman Brothers Band Museum at The Big House

Jud McCranie / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0

Music fans will enjoy touring the home that members of the Allman Brothers Band lived, jammed and rehearsed in during their heyday in the early 1970s. Offered Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., the tours give visitors a glimpse into the life of the band, including Duane Allman's bedroom and the kitchen, where Dickey Betts wrote “Ramblin’ Man." Also expect exhibits with concert posters, magazine covers, vintage records, clothing, instruments, and other band memorabilia.

Opt Outside at Lake Tobesofkee Recreation Area

 Getty Images/ bjones27

Comprised of three separate parks (Claystone, Sandy Beach, and Arrowhead), Lake Tobesofkee is a human-made recreational lake with 35 miles of shoreline on nearly eighteen hundred acres of land. The largest recreational area in middle Georgia, it offers outdoor enthusiasts plenty of activities, from fishing and boating to camping and miles of trails for running and hiking. In the summer season, visitors can enjoy the Sandy Beach Water Park, which has water slides, a wave pool, a lazy river, and other options for cooling down and splashing around on steamy days.

Tour the Historic Johnston-Felton-Hay House

 Courtesy of Johnston-Felton-Hay House

Built by prominent Georgia railroad tycoon and banker William Butler Johnston in 1859, this historic home is renowned not only for its stunning Italian Renaissance Revival-style architecture, but its incorporation of technological advances for the time like gas lighting, temperature-controlled running water, and a tube-based intercom-like communication system. Added to the National Historic Landmark in 1974, the 16,000 square feet house is open for tours that give visitors a look at original furnishings, decorative arts, and stained glass windows. Insider tip: pay a bit extra and book the "Top of the House Tour," which includes a tour of the two-level dome that offers panoramic views of the city.

Visit the Tubman Museum

One of the country's largest museums dedicated to African-American art, culture, and history, the 49,000 square foot space is located in downtown. Permanent exhibitions range from an extensive collection of folk art to an inventors' gallery and a signature 55-foot long mural dedicated to the achievements of Black Americans throughout history.

Play at the Georgia Sports Hall of Fame

Courtesy of Georgia Sports Hall of Fame 

Designed to look like a turn-of-the-century baseball stadium, this 43,000 square foot museum is the country’s largest dedicated to state sports. With memorabilia from the high school to collegiate levels to professional and Olympic athletes, the space has over 3,000 items of memorabilia from home-state favorites like Georgia Tech and the Atlanta Braves as well as NASCAR simulators, football games, and more interactive activities.

Play at Amerson River Park

Located on the scenic Ocmulgee River, this 180-acre park has something for everyone. Explore seven miles of trail on foot or by bike, enjoy a picnic at the Atlanta Gas Light Pavilion, or play on the swings, slides, and other equipment at the all-abilities playground. Weather permitting, rent a canoe, kayak, or tube and paddle or float down the river for unparalleled views of the city.

Explore Tattnall Square Park

Stephen Rahn / Creative Commons

Located across the street from Mercer University, this town park takes up an entire city block. It includes everything from a children's playground and art installations to sports facilities like playing fields for pick-up games of soccer and public tennis courts. The park also hosts the Mulberry Market produce-only farmers' market on Wednesdays from 3:30 to 6:30 p.m., as well as various outdoor festivals and movie nights.

Experience History at Fort Hawkins

Established by then-president Thomas Jefferson in 1806 as an army fort and trading post with Native Americans, highlights of this historic structure include views of the nearby Muskogee Creek Nation burial mounds, archeological artifacts uncovered from the site, and an original blockhouse.

Drink a Pint at Macon Beer Company

Courtesy of Macon Beer Company

Tour Macon's first brewery post Prohibition and then sample the company's signature brews like the Macon Progress pale ale and the Macon History malty brown ale plus seasonal offerings as available. Tours are free, but for ages 21 and up only. The brewery opened a downtown taproom and beer garden in fall 2019.

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17 Best Things To Do In Macon, Georgia

Chase The Cherry Blossoms

Discover the heart of downtown, taste your way through town, explore the ingleside historic district, head to happy hour, follow the music.

• Learn About Macon's History

Robbie Caponetto

There's an old saying about this part of Georgia: “There must be something in the water.” People said it in the 1950s when rock ’n’ roll icon and Macon native Little Richard hit it big. They repeated it about 10 years later when rhythm and blues singer Otis Redding burst on the scene. Then it happened again in the early 1970s when the Allman Brothers Band took the town—and nation—by storm.

But the phrase, or something like it, may have actually been around long before Macon made a name for itself as a music capital. The Muscogee people have lived in this region for thousands of years, and the Ocmulgee River provided near-perfect conditions for their agriculture. By the time Macon was founded in 1823, water was still the draw. The river provided a mode of transportation, was a catalyst for trade and industry, and then became a resource for electrical power.

Today, the phrase still echoes throughout town, which is one of our favorite destinations. You can hear it in the sultry whine of a bass guitar at Grant’s Lounge. You can taste it in the deceptively smooth daiquiri at The Monkey’s Paw Tiki Lounge. And you can see it in well-patronized businesses—from buzzy Macon Bagels to Reboot Retrocade & Bar.

Attend the Pinkest Party

The sense that there’s something special going on here is extra apparent in March when 350,000 Yoshino flowering cherry trees paint the town pink. (Washington, D.C., by comparison, has only around 3,800 of them.) During the 10-day International Cherry Blossom Festival, thousands of people fill the streets to ring in spring with a parade, concerts, food and drink specials, and a giant fair. Pop-up bars selling mimosas and a variety of pink beverages can be found on every block. Patios are jam-packed with diners and boisterous bands. It’s one big, blush-colored party.

But there was a time when the city wasn’t so lively and people started to forget about Macon’s magic. “I joke that I was born after the song,” says Jessica Walden, president and CEO of the Greater Macon Chamber of Commerce. “The music scene was almost nonexistent, and downtown was completely dead.” According to Walden, in the eighties and early nineties this area was a far cry from the place that residents enjoy today. “When I say it was dead, I mean I used to get on my go-kart and ride around the block. It had only tumbleweeds and wild rabbits,” she remembers.

Macon has always been a big part of Walden’s story. Her father, Alan, and Uncle Phil were cofounders of the music label Capricorn Records; her uncle had also managed Otis Redding, so the brothers knew how brightly Macon had once shone and were determined to see it get there again. For Walden, it took leaving for college and returning to work for the Georgia Sports Hall of Fame to understand her family’s fervor for this area. “I was like, ‘Holy cow—some really amazing things have happened here,’ ” she recalls. “ ‘And who’s to say that they can’t happen again?’ ”

Take A Tour With Rock Candy

Picking up the mantle from her father and uncle, Walden (and her husband, Jamie Weatherford) cofounded Rock Candy Tours , on which they share the city’s history with others. Tours are tailored to spotlight several aspects of the city's past and present, from a brewery and distillery tour to a music history tour to a tour focused on Macon's haunted history.

Walden says that the city's renaissance started at the end of the 2000s, but over the past few years, the murmur of a new Macon has grown into a crescendo. It even made the “52 Places To Go in 2023” list in  The New York Times.  “I was never a cheerleader in high school, but I’ll wave my pom-poms for Macon,” she says.

Stroll and Shop Through Downtown

In recent decades, downtown has traded its tumbleweeds and wild rabbits for more than 30 bars and live-music venues, 50 restaurants, and dozens of shops and galleries. Alongside all this new life, you’ll still find churches dating back to the mid-1800s, hundreds of old homes, and a plethora of buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places. If you're spending an afternoon or evening traversing Macon's highly walkable downtown, be sure to make stops at Reboot Retrocade & Bar , Fresh Produce Records , and Rabbit Hole .

Treat Yourself To A Homemade Bagel

On weekend mornings, a line snakes out the door at Macon Bagels . Join the queue for some of the hand-rolled, boiled, and baked breads made by owners Lauren Bone and Patrick Rademaker. Order The Champ (bacon, tomato, and avocado with caramelized-onion cream cheese) on an Adobo Cheddar bagel, and grab a homemade scone, muffin, or cookie for later.

Visit A Macon Classic Resturant

For a certifiable Macon experience, eat at The Rookery . Open since 1976, it has a menu with as much character as its photo-lined walls. Each specialty burger pays homage to a different Georgia star, from the Jimmy Carter with bacon and peanut butter to the Allman with Swiss cheese and sautéed mushrooms. The restaurant’s upstairs counterpart, Dovetail , serves Southern cuisine in an elevated yet comfortable atmosphere. The options change often, but you can count on seasonal iterations of staple dishes like their Chili-Rubbed Catfish and Grilled Pork Chop.

Try Authentic Soul Food

Lines for weekend brunch and weekday lunch can be long at this Macon institution, but H&H Soul Food's soul-warming recipes are 100-percent worth the wait. Open since 1959, the restaurant was a favorite hangout for the Allman Brothers, who were great friends with the restaurant's matriarch Louise Hudson, better known as Mama Louise. Pick your own meat 'n' three combo from favorites like country fried steak, chicken and dumplings, catfish, collards, mac and cheese, fried okra, and butter beans. The fried chicken and housemade biscuits come highly recommended by all.

Around 10 minutes from downtown, you’ll find the Ingleside Historic District. This residential area’s charming strip of shops and restaurants is well worth the short drive. From the vintage treasures at Historic Ingleside Village to the specialty foods at the Village Marketplace, there’s plenty to explore.

Grab A Treat From Oh Honey Baking Co.

At Oh Honey Baking Co. , the honeycomb-tiled pastry counter and hand-glazed brioche doughnuts shaped like daisies evoke pure, simple joy. Owner, baker, and master cake decorator Adriana Horton opened the quiant bakery and cafe in June 2022, offering daytime visitors everything from cinnamon buns, pastries, cakes, and cookies to hot-pressed sandwiches, breakfast burritos, and biscuits.

Spend The Day At Society Garden

Next door, The Society Garden is the community hangout everyone in other places wishes they had. Outdoor spaces include a cozy patio tucked between two buildings and a huge beer garden and live-music venue that’s shaded by trees strung with canopies and twinkling lights. Inside, there’s a multiroom lounge featuring velvet couches, palm-print wallpaper, and hanging pampas grass installations plus a hidden game/karaoke area.

Visit A Not-So-Average Hotel Bar

This town doesn’t slow down after dark. Kick off your evening with a drink at Quill , a craft-cocktail bar decorated in the style of a distinguished home library. It’s located inside the hip Woodward Hotel , a boutique stay with 11 rooms and suites that opened in 2022 alongside fellow newcomer Hotel Forty Five , a Marriott Tribute Portfolio property.

Escape To A Tiny Tiki Lounge

Macon may be landlocked, but Ashley and Tony Doolin are determined to put everyone on island time. The couple owns Pearl Passionate Cuisine & Cocktails and The Monkey’s Paw Tiki Lounge . At Pearl, Ashley experiments with flavors from around the world in dishes like red snapper fillet with a Jamaican jerk rub and Peruvian shrimp-and-scallop ceviche. At The Monkey’s Paw, a reservation-only speakeasy-style spot, nearly all the drinks on the menu feature rum. If you order one with any other spirit, Hawaiian shirt-clad Tony will make it but instruct the entire bar to give you grief (but he does concede that every one of his offerings is delicious).

Grab A Pint At Fall Line Brewing Co.

If you're looking for a more casual atmosphere to start your evening, head to Fall Line Brewing Co. downtown. Owned by local couple Nate and Kaitlynn Kressin, the favorite downtown hangout is known for its excellent lineup of craft brews that range from a fruity tangerine wheat ale to hoppy double IPAs. If you visit in spring, be sure to try the Yoshi, a lager brewed with cherry and blood orange puree to commemorate cherry blossom season.

Learn About Macon Music Legends

Some of the country-and the world's-biggest artists have roots in Macon, which means you can't visit the city without paying your respects to their incredible contributions to the art. At The Big House Museum , you can get a behind-the-scenes look into the iconic Allman Brothers Band in the very home where the Southern rock pioneers lived and wrote some of their most impactful music. Another certifiable star to come from Macon, Otis Redding, known as the King of Soul, was raised in Macon. Learn about his legacy at the Otis Redding Museum , which is run by his family.

Visit The Museum At Capricorn

A common denominator between The Allman Brothers Band and Otis Redding was Capricorn Records. Redding was part owner of the building where the studio would later be built and The Allman Brothers would go on to record. Today, you can visit a museum dedicated to the studio that includes more than 1,200 square feet of artifacts, murals and interactive digital kiosks featuring music, video and text that bring Capricorn's story to life.

See A Live Show

To get the most out of your visit, you should absolutely plan around the concerts happening here. From the historic Hargray Capitol Theatre to the Macon City Auditorium , today’s performers have taken note of the town’s renewed passion for live shows. On any given weekend, you can catch groups like St. Paul & The Broken Bones and Moon Taxi gracing local stages.

Hang With Locals At Grant's Lounge

All the best nights end at Grant’s Lounge . It was once the unofficial audition room for Capricorn Records and is still kicking over 50 years later. Photos on the ever-growing wall of fame provide a visual yearbook of the talented guests who have played here, including Eric Clapton, Tom Petty, and The Marshall Tucker Band.

Today, there’s a brand-new wave of artists from the region who are making history on that very same stage. One is Charles Davis, the lead singer of Charles Davis & the Velvet Sound. What started as a wedding ensemble in the summer of 2022 has evolved into something greater. In November 2022, the band began playing their Macon Music Revue show at Grant’s Lounge each week, which allowed them to slowly amass a dedicated following. During these performances, they cover songs influenced by the city, such as James Brown’s “Please, Please, Please” (which was recorded downtown) and “Soul Man” by Sam & Dave. (The original horn player for the band still frequents Grant’s, so Davis admits that he always feels extra pressure to do the song justice.)

He says that although the show is focused on the area’s past, one of the things that he appreciates most about Macon’s music lovers is their enthusiasm for what’s next. “Our history is great and beautiful, but I always tell people, ‘Don’t sleep on what’s going on now,’ ” he says. “A lot of stuff that happened in Macon affected America, so we always pay respect to that history, but we also try not to forget to nurture upcoming groups. We have to keep that legacy going.”

Learn About Macon's History

Stay in a historic b&b.

Immerse yourself in part of Macon's history by staying at the Burke Mansion , a bed and breakfast which is the only lodging in the city listed on the National Historic Register. Built in 1887 by T.C. Burke, who has been called the Merchant Prince of Macon, the house is stunning example of Queen Anne Victorian architecture. The inn's four suites are located within easy walking distance of downtown, making this a wonderful place to set up during your stay.

Explore Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park

Some consider Grant’s Lounge to be hallowed ground, but just outside downtown, you’ll find a truly sacred setting in Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park. The 3,000-acre destination is anchored by seven Mississippian-era Native American mounds but also features 8 miles of hiking trails where you can learn about the land’s past and discover its flora and fauna. The visitors center gives insight into the Native American people who have lived here over the past 12,000-plus years and displays a selection of artifacts that were unearthed in a historic archaeological dig. A cultural center set to open in the next few years will dive deeper into that story.

Through a growing partnership and a robust campaign between The Muscogee Nation and the city, Ocmulgee Mounds will hopefully become the first national park and preserve located in Georgia and one of only a few in the Southeast. The long-awaited designation would be monumental for the entire state. Tracie Revis, the former chief of staff for The Muscogee Nation and director of advocacy for the Ocmulgee National Park and Preserve Initiative, says not only is the park a great tool for education, but it’s also a way to reunite Muscogee citizens like herself with their ancestral lands.

“The first trip I made here, I smelled our medicine,” she remembers. “I was walking out on a small bridge past a creek and recognized the sweet scent of a tea that we have and still use in the summer. I want to give that experience to others too. So it’s a story of reconciliation, history, rebirth, and healing.”

From the top of the imposing 55-foot-tall clay Great Temple Mound, you can get a panoramic view of both the surrounding wetlands and downtown Macon—a once-forgotten city that has miraculously found its way back into the spotlight.

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11 Best Things to Do in Macon, GA

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated Mar 6, 2023

For a city with a population of just 150,000 residents, Macon certainly boasts plenty of things to do. Founded in 1823 on the west bank of the Ocmulgee River and nicknamed "Brick City" for its abundant use of locally made building materials, this Central Georgia city offers visitors everything from art galleries and museums to ancient burial grounds and perfectly preserved Victorian-era mansions to enjoy.

Macon is a fun place to explore on foot, with a vibrant, rejuvenated downtown core that features wide, tree-lined avenues with easy pedestrian access to some of the city's top attractions. Some of the best public parks in Georgia are found here, too, and offer opportunities for those of all abilities to get out and enjoy the scenery.

For die-hard hikers, the city is connected to other parts of the state via the 200-mile-long Ocmulgee River Water Trail . Add to this mix the many fun events and festivals held here each year, such as the popular International Cherry Blossom Festival , and there are plenty of reasons to spend your time outdoors.

Macon's revival has also provided a great excuse for locals to celebrate the city's cultural diversity. In addition to points of interest that commemorate the Civil Rights movement, you'll want to find time to explore attractions such as the Tubman Museum , which showcases art created by both local and country-wide African American artists.

To find out more about the best places to visit in this exciting Central Georgia city, read through our list of the top things to do in Macon, GA.

1. Explore Downtown Macon on Foot

2. ocmulgee mounds national historical park, 3. tour the historic johnston—felton—hay house, 4. the allman brothers band museum at the big house, 5. take a stroll through amerson river park, 6. learn about african american culture at the tubman museum, 7. visit the garden of graves: rose hill cemetery, 8. museum of arts and sciences, 9. take in a show at the grand opera house, 10. get your game on at the georgia sports hall of fame, 11. visit macon during the international cherry blossom festival, macon, ga - climate chart.

Macon is an immensely walkable city. This is especially true of the Downtown Macon area. This relatively large district encompasses the city's newer financial center, many of its top tourist attractions, as well as the old downtown core with its well-preserved examples of historic architecture.

In fact, the abundance of historic buildings here has led to the entirety of Downtown Macon being included on the National Register of Historic Sites , ensuring its preservation for future generations. While many of the most interesting buildings date from the 19th century and reflect the South's adoption of Victorian and Greek Revival architectural styles, structures from the 1940s, 50s, and 60s, such as the former department stores, have found new purpose and now house everything from restaurants and hip cafés to chic fashion boutiques.

Downtown Macron is also used as the setting for many of the city's most important events and celebrations. Visit in winter, and you can enjoy Thanksgiving and Christmas parades, while in the warmer months, it's all about the spring and summer blossoms and the city's rich musical heritage.

Sunday's are a great time to visit the downtown area. Not only is it quiet, you'll see families dressed in their Sunday best heading to and from the many churches here. You'll also see them enjoying another popular weekend pastime, too: Sunday brunch. Great brunch experiences with a Southern twist can be enjoyed at establishments such as Parish on Cherry , Dovetail , and Lazy Susan , to name but a few.

Although you'll want to drive from Downtown Macon to Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park, once there you'll have plenty of opportunity to get out and walk. Covering an area of over 900 acres, this beautiful park features over eight miles of walking trails to explore.

It's so big, in fact, that you may choose to limit your walking to more manageable one-mile sections, making use of the ample parking near each of the park's main attractions. Start your sightseeing at the Art Deco-style visitor center. Built in 1936, its fascinating displays tell the story of the seven ancient burial mounds located within the park, along with the Indigenous people who lived here for more than 17,000 years.

In addition to artifacts found during what was the largest ever archaeological dig in the USA, a short accompanying film sheds even more light on the site's historical significance. While a reconstructed ceremonial earth lodge is located just a short walk from the visitor center, the main cluster of mounds, including the huge Great Temple Mound, are a half-mile walk away.

While you can view the mounds from their base, their true scale can best be appreciated by climbing the wooden staircase leading to the top. From here, you'll also be rewarded with excellent panoramic views over Macon.

However you choose to explore the Ocmulgee Mounds, take your time. It's extremely peaceful, and numerous park benches have been strategically placed to help you prolong the experience.

Address: 1207 Emery Hwy, Macon, Georgia

Official site: www.nps.gov/ocmu/index.htm

One of Georgia's most important period homes, the Johnston-Felton-Hay House can easily be walked to from Downtown Macon. Built in 1859 and boasting 24 rooms, this 18,000-square-foot mansion, built in Renaissance Revival style by Italian craftsmen, is so grand, it's been dubbed the "Palace of the South."

Capped by a stunning three-story cupola, it featured numerous innovations for the time, including an intercom system, hot and cold running water, central heating, an elevator, and ventilation. Interior highlights include the home's original stained-glass windows, original furniture, as well as a sizable collection of period porcelain and paintings.

Hour-long guided tours are available Wednesday to Sunday, and an on-site gift shop offers related souvenirs. Be sure to explore the grounds, too, which feature a number of original plants dating from the time the house was built.

Once you're done at Hay House, take a few minutes to walk up the hill across the road to the Walter F. George School of Law . This impressive red-brick building is famous for Jefferson Davis having visited after the Civil War. From Coleman Hill Park across the road, you can take a seat and enjoy the spectacular views over Macon.

Address: 934 Georgia Avenue, Macon, Georgia

Official site: www.hayhousemacon.org

Macon is justifiably proud of its rich musical heritage. Perhaps the best known of the many talented Macon residents who followed their music-making destiny was the Allman Brothers Band. After forming in 1969, the Allman Brothers put Macon and Southern rock on the music map.

The band's legacy is celebrated at Big House on Vineville Avenue, home to Allman Brothers Band Museum. The band, along with sundry family members, roadies, and friends, encamped here from 1970 to 1973, making it the base where they rehearsed and composed some of their best-known hit tunes.

Today, the museum houses numerous fascinating interactive exhibits relating to the band's career, along with memorabilia. A gift shop is located on-site, and acts inspired by the band regularly perform on the property's stage.

Address: 2321 Vineville Avenue, Macon, Georgia

Official site: https://thebighousemuseum.com

Set on 180 acres overlooking a dramatic bend in the Ocmulgee River, Amerson River Park is another of Macron's impressive array of green spaces that should be visited. A seven-mile-long network of paved pathways crisscross the park, winding through a mix of wetland, mature forests, and meadows, all of them framed by the river.

Elegant stone pavilions are strategically placed around the park offering shade and shelter, with one designated as an overlook with mesmerizing views of the river. All these areas are easily accessible for strollers and wheelchairs. There's also a children's' playground for the youngsters to blow off some steam.

It's a popular place to visit for adventure seekers, too. A kayak/canoe launch is provided, and in summer months, the river flows gently enough that tubers can be seen floating slowly downstream as they enjoy a truly authentic "lazy river" experience.

The park also marks the start of the Ocmulgee River Water Trail , a scenic route that follows the river all the way to Hazlehurst some 200 miles to the east.

Address: 2551 Pierce Drive N., Macon, Georgia

Official site: www.maconga.org/listings/amerson-river-park/4262/

The Tubman Museum, widely regarded as one of the country's most important repositories of African American cultural artifacts, artworks, and related information, is a must-visit when in Macon. Since it opened in 1985, the museum has educated and informed countless visitors about African American history and culture.

Through its permanent and temporary exhibits, the museum describes the African American experience, with a special emphasis on art and music, including soul and R&B. Included are performers with connections to Macon including Little Richard, James Brown, and Otis Redding.

Expect to spend at least a couple of hours exploring the exhibits at Tubman Museum.

Address: 310 Cherry Street, Macon, Georgia

Official site: www.tubmanmuseum.com

Known as the "Garden of Graves" for its beautiful grounds, Rose Hill Cemetery makes for an excellent walkabout in Macon. Set on 50 acres near the Ocmulgee River, this park-like cemetery opened in 1840 and is the final resting place of many prominent Macon citizens, including Gregg and Duane Allman of the Allman Brothers Band.

Named after its horticulturalist designer Simri Rose, the cemetery is divided into sections based on the religion and background of those interred here. Take a wander, and you'll find the burial sites of some 600 Confederate soldiers and an unknown number of slaves located just steps away from the more ornate burial plots of the city's once prominent families.

It's a fascinating place to explore, and though it features numerous inclines, the pathways are, for the most part, paved. Details of self-guided walking tours are available from the cemetery website, along with dates and details about the twice-yearly Rose Hill Ramble, a fun 1.5-hour guided tour of the site.

Address: 1071 Riverside Drive, Macon, Georgia

Official site: www.rosehillcemetery.org

Macon's Museum of Arts and Sciences (MAS) opened in 1956 and features four galleries used to host temporary exhibits related to a variety of disciplines, from fine arts to technology, and all stops in between.

For younger visitors, the museum's Discovery House is a must-visit. Chock-full of interactive displays and exhibits, it also features a mini zoo with live animals, a nature trail, and a planetarium. Workshops and age-appropriate learning programs are also available.

An on-site store sells souvenirs and gifts, while new additions on the grounds include an amphitheater, a bat cave, and walking trails.

Address: 4182 Forsyth Road, Macon, Georgia

Official site: www.masmacon.org

Built as the Academy of Music in 1884, the aptly named Grand Opera House can still boast about having one of the largest stages in the American South. It's so large a stage, in fact, that live horses, complete with chariots, were used in a 1908 production of Ben Hur .

In the decades since, some of America's biggest stars and performers have graced the stage, including Charlie Chaplin, Harry Houdini, Bob Hope, Ray Charles, and, of course, local heroes the Allman Brothers Band. These days, the theater is best known for its annual Christmas performance of The Nutcracker and for being a regular stop for touring Broadway shows.

Address: 651 Mulberry Street, Macon, Georgia

Official site: www.thegrandmacon.com

A visit to the Georgia Sports Hall of Fame, the largest attraction of its type in the USA, is time well spent when in Macon. Although it covers an impressive 43,000 square feet of displays and exhibits, it's easily navigable, with your area of preference being easy to find.

Want to know more about car racing? Then head straight for the NASCAR simulators. Want to learn about local athletes and their achievements? Make your way to the Great Moments in Georgia Sports History section.

Other highlights include sections dedicated to high school and college sports, Olympic and Paralympic athletes, as well as baseball, basketball, and football. Guided tours are also available.

Address: 301 Cherry Street, Macon, Georgia

Official site: www.georgiasportshalloffame.com

If you're planning on visiting Macon in springtime, try to time your stay to coincide with the city's popular International Cherry Blossom Festival. Held each year since 1982, this fun festival celebrates the city's claim to being the world's cherry blossom capital – a claim that's backed up by the city's approximately 350,000 Yoshino Cherry Trees.

Held each March to coincide with the colorful display these trees put on when blossoming, the festival's hub in Carolyn Crayton Park is the scene of numerous concerts, fairground attractions, food and drink experiences, as well as numerous other fun activities for the whole family.

Location: Carolyn Crayton Park, Downtown Macon, Georgia

Official site: https://cherryblossom.com

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8 Fantastic Things To Do In Historic Macon, GA

• Destinations
• United States

Georgia may have been in the spotlight for politics lately, but there’s so much more to the state than current affairs.

In fact, historic Macon in Bibb County, Georgia, is rich in music lore, outdoor adventure, Civil Rights history, Southern cuisine, and culture.

Established in 1809 by European settlers, the town is named after statesman Nathaniel Macon, and thanks to the Ocmulgee River, the community thrived with trade and industry. It’s also the home of Wesleyan College, Mercer University, and the famous Capricorn Records studio.

In addition to the rich history and hopping downtown Macon, the area is one of the best places in middle Georgia to explore the great outdoors with miles of hiking trails, river access, and agritourism.

During the Civil War, Macon was defended three times before surrendering to the Union forces. The original Southern antebellum homes were saved, and many of Macon’s neighborhoods feature classic Victorian-style homes and Greek Revival homes.

The city is so known for its architecture that it has been called “a textbook of historic architecture ,” with 6,000 individual structures in 14 historic districts listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The National Trust for Historic Preservation named this central Georgia community as one of America’s “Dozen Distinctive Destinations.”

Macon, Georgia, also made its mark in America’s musical journey. One of the birthplaces of Soul and Southern Rock , Macon was the childhood home of greats like Little Richard and Otis Redding, and James Brown recorded his first single in town at WIBB in Macon and was inducted into the Georgia Music Hall of Fame Museum (now closed).

Of course, the 1970s put Macon into the spotlight, with Capricorn Records introducing the Allman Brothers Band, Wet Willie, and the Marshall Tucker Band.

Headed to Georgia? Here are seven fantastic things to do in historic Macon, a charming destination in the heart of Middle Georgia.

1. Explore The Great Outdoors

With 180 acres of upland forest at Amerson River Park , you can easily explore high bluffs and beautiful views of the Ocmulgee River on 7 miles of trails that weave through the park. Located just off Interstate 75, it’s an easy way to get in some hiking, canoeing, kayaking, and exploring the wetlands without ever leaving the city.

Macon is a parks city, and its many community parks and walking trails give ample opportunity to experience the area’s natural beauty. Located just outside Macon, Lake Tobesofkee is a popular locals’ favorite recreation area that has three parks, camping, sandy beaches, and 35 miles of shoreline. Lake Tobesofkee also added four new pickleball courts at Sandy Beach, and both Arrowhead Park and Claystone Park have plenty of camping and RV spots .

For a more rustic adventure, the Ocmulgee Outdoor Expeditions is a locally owned canoe and kayak rental service for the Ocmulgee River that has a variety of trips suitable for novice and experienced paddlers alike.

Located in the heart of downtown Macon, the central park called Carolyn Crayton Park connects to the Ocmulgee Heritage Trail , a 13-mile walking trail that weaves through the Jackson Springs Park, Spring Street Landing, the Otis Redding Bridge, and the Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park via the Walnut Creek connection, known as the Mike Ford Trail. This downtown Macon park is also a popular spot for tournaments, festivals like the International Cherry Blossom Festival and other special events.

Pro Tip: Locals swear by the farmers markets and craft markets. From local produce to hand-crafted goods, the Macon Farmers Markets in downtown Macon are a fun way to enjoy a balmy day while supporting local businesses.

2. Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park

More than a thousand years ago, Georgia was home first to the Paleo-Indians and then to the Mississippian culture of prehistoric Native Americans. Macon is the site of the continent’s only reconstructed Earth Lodge and Early Mississippian temple mounds at the Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park .

Visitors can explore the Ocmulgee National Monument and stroll along a wooden boardwalk through the area’s wetlands. Visitors can also enter the Earth Lodge, a reconstructed council chamber of Mississippian culture. Using the original clay floor that dates back to 1015 A.D., the lodge was recreated in the late 1930s by Civilian Conservation Corps and Works Project Administration crews under the direction of Archeologist A.R. Kelly.

Ocmulgee also has 8 miles of trails , and all but two of the 10 different trails are less than a mile long, so it’s appropriate for all levels of walkers.

3. Macon’s Many Museums

If history, art, and culture are more your speed, Macon is chock-full of world-class museums on everything from modern art to baseball.

To honor the Civil Rights Movement and African American heritage, visit the Tubman Museum , the largest museum in the Southeast dedicated to African American art, history, and culture.

Although authentic African art is a highlight, the museum dives deep into contemporary African American art and Southeastern folk art. Learn about the contributions of African Americans in the From the Minds of African Americans gallery, which highlights the inventors, entrepreneurs, and scientists that made their mark on America.

The Museum of Arts and Sciences in downtown Macon is a thorough and entertaining multi-generational museum that offers everything from children’s workshops, bird-watching walks, holiday events like the Festival of Trees exhibit during Christmas, and a stunning planetarium . The Museum of Arts and Sciences’ Discovery House Interactive Museum isn’t just a thrilling learning experience for kids, but for grown-ups who want to discover the mysteries and wonders of the natural world as well.

Visit a seven-story Renaissance Revival mansion built in the 1800s at the Hay House Museum. Called “The Palace of the South,” the house is widely recognized as the most technologically advanced antebellum building in America.

Music fans can’t miss The Allman Brothers Museum at The Big House , which was home to band members from 1970-1973. This museum has the largest collection of the band’s memorabilia in the world. The Otis Redding Foundation also has a “mini-museum” that shares the history and awards of Mr. Redding.

Sports lovers will hit a home run with the Georgia Sports Hall of Fame , a 43,000-square-foot state-of-the-art museum with more than 3,000 artifacts.

4. H And H Soul Food

H and H Soul Food in Macon is one of the South’s most iconic restaurants and a must-do for visitors to the city.

The soul food restaurant was opened in 1959 by Inez Hill and Louise Hudson and became famous for its founders’ tight friendship with the Allman Brothers Band. “Mama” Louise even had her own seat on Allman Brothers’ tour bus in 1972. The restaurant and its founders played a big role in Macon’s Southern rock explosion, making it a favored stop for musical greats passing through Georgia.

After Mama Hill died, the Moonhanger Group reopened the restaurant in 2014 in partnership with Mama Louise.

Pro Tip: Don’t skip breakfast when you have a chance to try the famous H and H waffles or the Mystic Gravy biscuits. For lunch, try the fried green tomatoes and the super-affordable meat plates.

5. Cannonballs, Cemeteries, And Beer

During the Civil War, one of Macon’s historic homes was ravaged by a cannonball. Now named The Cannonball House , the 1853 Greek Revival home features the original furnishings. The cannonball house contains the founders’ furniture for the two oldest sororities in the world, Adelphean and Philomathean.

The house also features a military collection from the Confederacy and a gift shop specializing in Victorian-inspired gift items.

One of the oldest surviving public cemetery parks, the Rose Hill Cemetery , is the final resting place for 600 Confederate soldiers, two founding members of the Allman Brothers Band, three Georgia governors, and an ax-murderer whose inscription only reads “Just a Brown Dog…”

After learning about Macon’s Civil War history, stroll on down to the Macon Beer Company , the city’s only craft brewery, for a little refreshment and maybe an impromptu game of cornhole.

6. Smiley’s Flea Market

Smiley’s Flea Market is Georgia’s largest and finest flea market with over 1,000 selling spaces, and anyone who loves finding treasure can’t miss this experience. In addition to more than 1,000 booths selling everything from antiques to peanuts, this gigantic “garage sale” also has seven restaurants and is open every Saturday and Sunday.

7. Cherry Blossom Festival

If you visit Macon during March and April, you’re in luck. The Cherry Blossom Festival will be in full swing, and you’ll marvel at the more than 350,000 Yoshino cherry trees in full bloom. In fact, Macon has the most Yoshino cherry trees in the world, and the celebration includes live concerts, outdoor arts and crafts booths, a fair, and more.

If you miss the Cherry Blossom Festival, don’t worry. Macon, Georgia is a festival city, so you can find live events and festivals to be a part of every month.

Don’t miss Macon’s Burger Week , the Beefiest week Macon has ever seen. For 7 days in the late summer, Macon celebrates the American classic hamburger with a selection of competitors who hope to be chosen as the best burger.

8. The Macon Music Trail

The Macon Music Trail is a unique tourism opportunity to explore the musical history of this Georgia community. An online resource and directory of Macon’s local music history, the Music Trail explores Macon’s impact on American popular music.

And what a history it is. From Otis Redding to the Allmond Brothers, from African American blues artist Lucille Hegamin to blind Blues guitarist The Reverend Pearly Brown, the musical legacy of Macon can border on overwhelming.

The online Macon Music Trail was designed to make exploring musical history easier through a directory of Macon’s local music history, current scene, and tourism opportunities.

The Grand Opera House , the performing arts center of Mercer University in Macon, Georgia, continues the performance and musical traditions of this Bibb County area with musical performances from the Macon-Mercer Symphony Orchestra , ballet performances, musicals, and more.

Macon is more than just music, too! It’s also the birthplace of esteemed poet Sidney Lanier . This much-loved southern poet is still honored today in central Georgia by Lake Lanier and Georgia’s largest cable-stayed bridge, the Sidney Lanier Bridge , in Brunswick, Georgia.

Related Reading:

• How To Spend A Weekend Getaway In Atlanta, Georgia
• 7 Reasons To Retire In Gainesville, Georgia
• 10 Scenic Hikes In Georgia

Heide Brandes is an award-winning journalist and travel writer based in Oklahoma. She loves outdoor adventures, exploring different cultures, and finding off-the-wall, bizarre, and wondrous experiences to enjoy. Heide writes for numerous national and international publications and is an award-winning member of the Society for Professional Journalists, North American Travel Journalists Association, and Society of American Travel Writers. Besides traveling and writing, Heide is also a professional Bellydancer, a medieval re-enactor, and a quirky chick who lives in Oklahoma City.

10 Things To Do In Macon: Complete Guide To Georgia's Charming Southern City

Macon is known for its beauty, history, and charm. Explore all the exciting things to do in this charming Georgia city.

Nestled in the heart of central Georgia, Macon beckons travelers with its rich tapestry of history and culture. This charming southern city, steeped in a legacy spanning millennia, offers a captivating blend of experiences that will enchant visitors of all ages. Macon invites exploration and discovery from the ancient earthen mounds of Ocmulgee National Monument to the stirring exhibits at the Tubman Museum, which celebrate African-American art and heritage.

This town is based heavily on its rich history and culture, bringing guests from around the country each year. Whether admiring centuries-old architecture or hiking the trails of Standing Indian, Macon offers a diverse range of experiences that promise to leave an indelible mark on every traveler's heart. This comprehensive guide unveils the top ten things to do in Macon, ensuring that your visit to this captivating city is nothing short of extraordinary.

Things To Do

For those coming to underrated towns in Georgia like Macon, there are many things to see, do, and experience. From outdoor venues to museums, hotels, and restaurants, here's an ultimate guide to the city.

Related: 12 Best Beaches That Are Within Easy Driving Distance Of Atlanta

1 Amerson River Park

• Address: 2551 Pierce Dr N, Macon, GA 31204
• Hours: 7:30 AM to 8 PM

One thing to do while in Macon is to check out Amerson River Park. Here, guests can enjoy 180 acres of pristine forests, meadows, and wetlands surrounded by a river oxbow. Many visitors rent tubes and go down the river at Amerson River Park, spending holidays and weekends here. It's a fun place to be in the spring and summer.

2 The Allman Brothers Band Museum At The Big House

• Address: 2321 Vineville Ave, Macon, GA 31204
• Hours: Thursday - Sunday from 11 AM to 6 PM (4 PM on Sunday)

The Allman Brothers Band Museum , or The Big House, is a Macon, Georgia, United States museum. It was the home to The Allman Brothers Band's original members, their families, and various friends from 1970 to 1973. This is a nice place to learn about history and enjoy the architecture and grounds.

3 Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park

• Address: 1207 Emery Hwy, Macon, GA 31217
• Hours: Open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM

The next place to go in Macon is the Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park . Here lies a National Monument memorial to the relationship between people and natural resources. Native Americans first came here during the Paleo-Indian period. It's a nice way to get out in the fresh air and see the beauty of nature in Georgia.

4 Hay House

• Address: 934 Georgia Ave, Macon, GA 31201
• Hours: Wednesday - Sunday from 10 AM to 4 PM

Another museum to see while in Macon, Georgia, is the Hay House property. Here lies a historic mansion built between 1855 and 1859 by William Butler Johnston and his wife, Anne Tracy Johnston, in the Italian Renaissance Revival style. The house has been called the "Palace of the South."

Related: 10 Weekend Getaways In Georgia That Make Perfect Road Trips

5 Tubman Museum

• Address: 310 Cherry St, Macon, GA 31201
• Hours: Tuesday - Saturday from 9 AM to 5 PM

Another thing to do in Macon, Georgia, is to experience African-American culture and history at the Tubman Museum . This museum focuses on the trials and tribulations of black Americans. It is in the city's museum district near the Georgia Music Hall of Fame and the Georgia Sports Hall of Fame.

6 The Grand Opera House

• Address: 651 Mulberry St, Macon, GA 31201

Guests of the city also want to see the Grand Opera House, often called The Grand and originally known as the Academy of Music. This historic opera house was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1970. It is now the performing arts center of Mercer University.

7 Rose Hill Cemetery

• Address: 1071 Riverside Dr, Macon, GA 31201
• Hours: Open daily from 7 AM to 8:30 PM

Another somewhat spooky thing to do this fall in Macon is visit the Rose Hill Cemetery, which is a 50-acre cemetery located on the banks of the Ocmulgee River in Macon, Georgia, United States, that opened in 1840.

This is a final resting place for many, so make sure to be respectful.

8 Tattnall Square Park

• Address: 1155 College St, Macon, GA 31201

A relaxing thing to do in Macon is walk through the beautiful Tattnall Square Park. A city park lies here, with a playing field, playground, picnic areas, and tennis courts, known for cultural events.

9 St Joseph Catholic Church

• Address: 830 Poplar St, Macon, GA 31201
• Hours: Open daily from 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM (closes at 5:30 Sat and 6 Sun)

For those wanting to see a magnificent church while traveling through Macon, St Joseph Catholic Church is one to check out. Here, guests can tour the property and even attend a weekly mass. Saint Joseph Catholic Church was listed on the NRHP on July 14, 1971, and sits right at the heart of the city.

10 The Shoppes At River Crossing

• Address: 5080 Riverside Dr, Macon, GA 31210

Lastly, shopping in Macon should be fun for tourists, especially at the Shoppes at River Crossing . Visitors can enjoy a super regional lifestyle center in Macon, Georgia. General Growth Properties developed it to respond to the declining area around the older Macon Mall. Phase I opened on March 19, 2008, while Phase II opened shortly after.

11 Best Time To Visit Macon, Georgia

• Best Time To Visit: Spring, Summer, and Fall

Regarding the best time to visit Macon, Georgia, this is typically between mid-April to early June and from early September to late October; Georgia has many excellent fall destinations . The spring, summer, and fall are fun here, as the natural beauty and abundant parks make for perfect daytime activities for tourists.

On top of that, the weather stays pleasant during early summer and cools down a bit heading into fall and winter. Georgia is a wonderful place to see in the Southern US, especially for people wanting to experience a moister, greener terrain.

Georgia also hosts some of the cleanest lakes in the South , making those perfect for warmer summer months.

Related: 10 Things To Do In Athens: Complete Guide To Georgia's Classical City

12 Best Ways To Get Around Macon, Georgia

• Best Way Around Macon: Private car

For people coming to Macon this year, it's best to rely on your own car to get from place to place. Because this town is historic, there won't be a high-speed train or subway to utilize. Instead, city buses go from downtown to some of the outlying areas throughout the day.

Georgia is not known for amazing public transport (outside of Atlanta), so driving is the way to get around here. Renting a car at the airport where you fly is what we'd recommend to vacationers. Walkability downtown is also fairly good, and there should be electric scooters to borrow or rent.

• There are many beautiful towns in Georgia that you can road trip to while renting a car.

13 Where To Eat And Drink In Macon

Considering this town is filled with culture, food choices will also be impressive. Here are some top picks for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and even drinks in Macon, Georgia.

Breakfast: H & H

• Address: 807 Forsyth St, Macon, GA 31201
• Serving: Southern comfort food in a no-frills atmosphere.

Lunch: Rookery

• Address: 543 Cherry St, Macon, GA 31201
• Serving: Burgers, a broad selection of craft brews, and live music & outdoor patio.

Dinner: The Back Burner Restaurant

• Address: 2242 Ingleside Ave, Macon, GA 31204
• Serving: Inventive Continental cuisine in a cozy atmosphere.

Drinks: Bearfoot Tavern

• Address: 468 2nd St, Macon, GA 31201
• Serving: A menu of New American fare & a beer garden with live music.

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14 Where To Stay In Macon, Georgia

Moving onto hotels in Macon, Georgia, there are also many to choose from. Whether someone needs a cheap stay, a mid-tier hotel, or a luxury experience, here are some choices in the city:

Budget: Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham

• Address: 2020 Bowman Park, Macon, GA 31210
• Amenities: Fitness center, Free Wi-Fi, Tea/coffee maker, Coffee machine, Business center

Budget: Ramada by Wyndham Macon

• Address: 4755 Chambers Road, Macon, GA 31206
• Amenities, Outdoor pool, Fitness center, Bar/Lounge, Free Wi-Fi, Coffee machine, Free parking

Mid-Tier: Courtyard by Marriott Macon

• Address: 3990 Sheraton Drive, Macon, GA 31210
• Amenities, Outdoor pool, Fitness center, Restaurant, Bar/Lounge, Room service, Free Wi-Fi

Mid-Tier: SpringHill Suites by Marriott Macon

• Address: 4630 Sheraton Drive, Macon, GA 31210
• Amenities, Indoor pool, Fitness center, Restaurant, Room service, Free Wi-Fi, Coffee machine

Luxury: TownePlace Suites by Marriott Macon Mercer University

• Address: 1550 Mercer University Drive, Macon, GA 31204
• Amenities, Outdoor pool, Fitness center, Free Wi-Fi, Tea/coffee maker, Coffee machine, Free parking

Luxury: Home2 Suites by Hilton Macon I-75 North

• Address: 3963 River Place Drive, Macon, GA 31210
• Amenities, Outdoor pool, Fitness center, Bar/Lounge, Free Wi-Fi, Business center, Free toiletries

15 Tips For Staying In Macon, Georgia

For people staying in Macon, Georgia, there are some things to consider. First, public transportation here won't compare to Atlanta by any means. Therefore, renting a car is what we recommend.

Here are free things to do in the Atlanta area for those headed there after Macon.

You also want to remember that Macon boasts many African-American museums and cultural centers, giving insight into the struggles and triumphs of them in this country. Take time to learn something new while here.

The weather here is also best in the spring and fall. Georgia can get muggy in the summer, which can make doing outdoor activities more challenging.

16 How To Spend The Perfect Day In Macon

Spending the perfect day in Macon won't be difficult. First, begin downtown, walking the streets and popping in and out of cafés, shops, and museums. This town is rich in history and art/culture, meaning it beckons visitors from around the country and continent.

Head to a historic property for a tour, followed by lunch. Southern food is delicious here. As the day winds down, check out a park, stroll through a historic district, and head to dinner. Afterward, get to the hotel, order snacks, and watch a movie. Onto the next day in Macon: have fun!

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Visit Macon

Known as the “Heart of Georgia,” Macon has wide boulevards lined with cherry trees, rich with delicate pink blossoms in the spring. The city is packed with historical buildings, superb restaurants and great live music venues.

You won’t have to stay long in Macon to realize this is a town that’s proud of its history. Over 5,000 buildings are listed as historical structures, including the resplendent Hay House and one of the city’s architectural centerpieces, St. Joseph’s Catholic Church. Outdating all of these, however, are the Indian mounds at Ocmulgee National Monument. Visit this 14,000-year-old site to learn about the local Native American history. Climb the Great Temple Mound for a view of the city.

Learn about the nation’s proud African-American heritage at the Tubman Museum. Study the spectacular 55-foot (17-meter) mural noting African-American accomplishments over centuries. Take thefamily to the Museum of Arts and Sciences. Enjoy the galleries and planetarium inside and nature trail and simulated limestone cave outside.

Some of America’s finest musicians came from Macon. Visit one of the numerous bars hosting bands and singers from the area. Pay homage to one of the town’s greats when you walk the Heritage Trail along the banks of the river. Here you will find a statue of the singer, Otis Redding. To find out more about the city’s musical heritage, head to the Georgia Music Hall of Fame.

Visit in March and April to experience one of the country’s most spectacular cherry blossom festivals. Macon has over 275,000 cherry trees full of pink flowers each spring. Several events take place in and around town to celebrate the blooming of the blossoms.

Macon is easily walkable, so you can see most of the major sights on foot. Buses do run regular services through the city, though driving is the best way to get around.

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Popular places to visit.

• The Allman Brothers Band Museum at the Big House

You can enjoy some culture when you stop by The Allman Brothers Band Museum at the Big House in Macon. Attend a sporting event or simply enjoy the top-notch restaurants while you're in the area.

• Harriet Tubman Museum

You can browse the exhibits at Harriet Tubman Museum, a museum with a storied past, during your trip to Macon. Stroll along the riverfront or experience the area's live music.

• Ocmulgee National Monument

Discover 10,000 years of Southeastern Native American culture at this prestigious monument.

• Museum of Arts and Sciences

You can spend time studying the exhibits at Museum of Arts and Sciences during your travels in Macon. While you're here, you can savor the top-notch restaurants.

Find out why this stately Italian Renaissance Revival-style mansion has earned the nickname Palace of the South.

• Rose Hill Cemetery

Step back in time and learn more about local history with a stop at Rose Hill Cemetery in Macon. Amble around this family-friendly area's riverfront or experience its live music.

Things to do

Macon scavenger hunt: the mysteries of macon, ocmulgee mounds smartphone (gps/app) guided history walking tour, read travel guides and advice on visiting macon, 9 places to celebrate black history month in 2019, 9 iconic flavors across the usa, the best places to travel each month in 2018.

• Cities near Macon

Warner Robins

Other places like Macon

• Places of interest
• Macon Coliseum
• Middle Georgia State University - Macon Campus
• The Shoppes at River Crossing
• Wesleyan College
• Grand Opera House
• St. Joseph's Catholic Church
• Lake Tobesofkee
• Georgia Sports Hall of Fame
• Riverside Cemetery
• Cannonball House
• Central Georgia Technical College
• Coliseum Health System
• Macon Little Theatre
• Luther Williams Field
• Douglass Theater
• Sidney Lanier Cottage
• Oakview Golf and Country Club
• Carmichael House
• Ocmulgee Heritage Trail
• Little Ocmulgee's Wallace Adams Golf Course

Get your glasses ready: Partial eclipse viewing events in central Georgia

The solar eclipse is almost here, and its time to get ready to watch!

In just two weeks, a total solar eclipse is expected to captivate millions across the country as it makes its way from Texas to Maine.

It's been nearly seven years since the U.S. has seen a solar eclipse, and this time it will be bigger and longer than the one in 2017. Those in the path of totality,  a 115-mile-wide stretch where the moon will fully cover the sun, are set to experience as much as four minutes of total darkness.

While Georgia isn't in the path of totality, lots of areas will be able to view a partial eclipse.

You won't want to miss the total solar eclipse on April 8, as there won't be another coast-to-coast event until 2045.

Here's just a few of the local places hosting partial eclipse watch parties:

1)  Partial Solar Eclipse Viewing Event

Where:  Ocmulgee Grounds National Historic Park in Macon

When:   April 8, 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m.

While  Macon is not in the path of totality for the eclipse, you can still see a 77% partial eclipse. The Ocmulgee Grounds are hosting a watch party at the funeral mound parking lot and they will have a limited number of solar eclipse junior ranger books and solar viewers. Park rangers will be able to teach about the eclipse, and help kids earn their solar eclipse badge.

The event starts at 1:30 p.m., and the eclipse begins around 1:46. The peak of the eclipse will happen around 3:04 p.m. 

For more about the event, you can visit the link here.

2)  Eclipse Hike at Brown's Mount

Where:  Brown's Mount, 2069 Joe Brown Drive in Macon

When: April 8 at 2 p.m.

If you don't want to sit still while watching the eclipse, you can go on a hike for the event at Brown's mount. According to their account listing, folks will "listen for the reactions of birds and insects to the mid-day twilight. We will visit the overlook, the writer's cabin ruin, the grape arbor at the old homestead, look for 65-million year-old fossils, walk along the lily cliff, and see the remains of an old Indian mound.

For more on the hike, you can  visit this link. 

3)  Georgia College and State University Eclipse Viewing Party

Where:  Georgia College & State University’s historic Front Campus

When:  Monday, April 8 from 2 to 4 p.m.

The public is invited to come out to  Georgia College & State University’s Front Campus, as their viewing are will cover around 80% of the sun at peak viewing time. Protective glasses will be given out from 2 - 4 p.m., at the Arts and Sciences Fountain on campus. There will also be “sunspotter” telescopes at A&S, which project images of the sun onto paper.

For more information and other places to pick up solar eclipse glasses around Milledgeville, you can visit the link here. 

4) Eclipse Viewing Party in Macon

Where:  Macon, Georgia

When:  April 8 from 1:46 p.m. to 04:20 p.m. 

This event has no specific location, but is for all the eclipse watchers around Macon! No matter if you're watching with a big group or from your own backyard,   www.ilovesolareclipse.com is hosting fun for all.

You can RSVP to the online event here , and share your solar eclipse location and photos in the comments of their event.

And don't forget to bring your camera., and post your photos with the hashtag #GeorgiaSolarEclipse to be featured on the company's social media pages!

You can also buy certified eclipse sunglasses on their website. 

5) Solar Eclipse Watch Party 

Where:  Daisy Park in Macon

When:  Monday, April 8 from 12 - 2 p.m.

Folks can meet up with the Middle Georgia Regional Library in Daisy Park to view the eclipse! Eclipse glasses will be available for attendees.  

If you have any eclipse viewing events you want added to the list, please send an email with all the event details to [email protected]. 

And don't forget to practice safety while viewing! To safely view the eclipse, you’ll need ISO-certified solar eclipse glasses. These are the glasses that will protect your retina from incoming solar radiation.

For 13WMAZ Meteorologist Alex Forbes's guide on how to make sure everyone stays safe watching the eclipse, visit the link here. 

Macon Highway

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8660 Macon Hwy, Athens, GA 30606

Marketing description.

Perfect location for your medical or general office on this prime 3.73 acre parcel of land, zoned OIP.​ Situated just of highway 441 and Macon Hwy/Rockinwood Drive, this property offers easy access and high visibility.​ With utilities readily available, and ita convenient proximity to Athens and Watkinsville, this is an ideal opportunity for your business to thrive in an incredible location.​ Don't miss out on this rare chance to secure your place in a dynamic and growing area!

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Zoned O I P

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