Macon is one of the richest cities that offers some of the best history of the deep south. Not too large and not too small, Macon sits in the center of the state and is home to some of the best history, boasts amazing architecture and offers quaint southern charm you just won’t find anywhere else. Whether you’re looking for some true southern culture or planning on bringing the family for a weekend get-a-way, there’s plenty to offer if you’re looking for southern adventure that’s good for the soul.
Macon, Georgia offers more than just southern charm, although the visuals are something you see on the front of a post card. For starters, you’ll find numerous museums, art galleries and restaurants which is more then enough to fill your entire weekend.
Below, we take a close look at the Top 10 Things to Do in Macon Georgia and specifically what makes it the perfect fit for families, couples and everyone in between.
10. Cannonball House
When it comes to history, the Cannonball House always comes to mind. Constructed in 1853, the Cannonball House gets its name from the cannonballs that inflicted it during the civil war. Offering tours 6 days a week along with a slew of special events and exhibits year-round. For those looking for education, there are numerous programs which are age specific ranging from Pre-K to the 12th grade.
Visit Cannonball House
9. Johnston–Felton–Hay House
For more history, the Johnston-Felton-Hay House is just that. This historical residence was built before the civil war and was the home of William Butler Johnston and his wife Anne Tracy Johnston. Offering an eclectic style reminiscent of the Italian Renaissance Revival and dubbed the “Place of the South”.
The history itself makes this structure one of the most iconic structures in Macon, Georgia. The house itself has become a popular rental for weddings, receptions, banquets and other events.
Visit Johnston-Felton-Hay House
8. Rose Hill Cemetery
Another must-see during your visit to Macon is the Rose Hill Cemetery. Since 1840 its become the final resting place for thousands of individuals and has become the site for the bi-annual Rose Hill Ramble. The cemetery itself offers a great deal of history, culture and southern charm.
Visit Rose Hill Cemetery
7. Amerson River Park
For something other than history, Amerson River Park is one of the best places in Macon, Georgia for entertainment and fun in the sun. The vast wetlands offers a great deal of nature and things to do including wetlands, canoeing, nature trails and a playground for the kids. The park spans 180 acres consisting of pristine forests, wetlands and meadows and completely surrounded by a river oxbow.
Visit Amerson River Park
6. Allman Brothers Band Museum
One of the most visited places in Macon is the Allman Brothers Band Museum. Also known as the “Big House” it was the original home to the Allman family made up of the band’s original members, families and friends from 1970 – 1973. From exhibits to tours with shopping in between, this stop is a must that’s open 7-days a week.
Visit Allman Brothers Band Museum
5. Museum of Arts and Sciences
For arts and culture, be sure to check out the Museum of Arts and Sciences. This community museum located in the heart of Macon features four galleries that frequently change their exhibits giving you a fresh outlook each time you visit. Highlighted by three galleries including the Discovery House, Science on a Sphere and the Planetarium and Observatory offering a great deal of education, art and history.
Visit Museum of Arts and Sciences
4. Georgia Sports Hall of Fame
For sports history Georgia style, the Georgia Sports Hall of Fame offers just that, and much more. The largest sports hall of fame in the US is a mammoth 43,000 square feet and holds some of the richest memorabilia in Georgia sports history. Showcasing the achievements of the state’s best athletes while helping preserve the history of yesterday while making a difference of the youth of tomorrow.
Visit Georgia Sports Hall of Fame
3. Sandy Beach Water Park
For fun outdoors and to get a reprieve from the heat, the Sandy Beach Water Park is the only place to be in Macon. This water park isn’t the largest out there, but considering its right next door to everything and offers amazing slides, lap pools and beautiful scenery it’s a must-see. Some of the highlights include the lazy river, wave pool, games, Olympic size pools and two wild water slides.
Be sure to check out their website below for to make sure they’re open as their closed during the off-season.
Visit Sandy Beach Water Park
2. Ocmulgee National Monument
The Ocmulgee National Monument is one of a kind and a must-see for history enthusiasts. The museum boasts Native American ceremonial earth mounds and a museum with numerous artifacts on display. This pre-historic site dates back 17,000 years and offers continuous habitation of humans. Home to thousands of Native American cultures over the years while each constructed mounds for their elite which are still seen today.
Visit Ocmulgee National Monument
1. St Joseph Catholic Church
Whether your a catholic or not, a stop at the St. Joseph Catholic Church is a must if your anywhere near Macon. Constructed in 1971 and located in downtown Macon, it takes up a full city block. The towers of the church are the tallest twin towers which are always seen over the city of Macon and the 3rd tallest structures in the city. Aside from height, the amazing architecture seen inside and out are worth checking out and have become a favorite for weddings.