Why You Should Add Macon, Georgia to Your Travel Bucket List
New Year. New Macon.
New Restaurants, Eateries, Hotels, and Major Developments are Here.
Macon is thriving and everyone has heard that this is one of the best places in the state to set up new business ventures. With new restaurants, shops, AND major additions like a 10,000-seat amphitheater, here's ten reasons to add Macon to your travel bucket list!
Be one of the first to visit the country's next National Park
The Ocmulgee Mounds will soon be the nation's next and Georgia's first National Park & Preserve. It would also be co-managed by the Muscogee (Creek) Nation, another monumental move as this would be the first time a national park is co-operated by an indigenous tribe that once was removed from the area.
Over 17,000 years of human history are recorded here with seven mounds that are preserved and observable, including one that you can enter and see the original floors dating back to 1015 A.D. or climb to the top of the Great Temple Mound, to see a beautiful view of the area. Additionally, the park has 2,000 artifacts that have been recovered at the site and now new exhibits are being introduced featuring art and more created by the Muscogee Nation's citizens. Hike along over 8 miles of trails that stretch through wetlands, marsh and lush forests while viewing wildlife and beautiful flora and fauna. Learn about the history and now present thriving culture of the Muscogee Nation, who live in Okmulgee, Oklahoma but still call the area their homelands.
Catch National Touring Acts At The Macon Amphitheater
The Macon Amphitheater will open in March of 2024 and already major headliners have been announced for the venue such as Jason Aldean, Lynard Skynard, Turnpike Troubadors and more. The venue can hold over 10,000 people, will have state-of-the-art sound systems, concessions and more. Macon's music heritage which inspired the sounds of artists like Little Richard, Otis Redding, and the Allman Brothers Band, continues on as the country's biggest artists will soon discover why Macon is truly "Where Soul Lives."
Explore Downtown Macon
Downtown Macon has undergone drastic changes, and it is now one of the most accessible and vibrant city centers in the state. Historic buildings have been meticulously restored, providing a backdrop for a diverse array of shops and eateries. From boutique stores like Frankie's and Bohemian Den, to innovative culinary establishments such as Kinjo Kitchen and Cocktails or Oliver's Corner Bistro, there's fun to be found on every block. It's also the center of our nightlife scene with historic music venues and performing arts venues like the Grand Opera House. And, there are more advancements on the way, with plans for a splatter studio, duck pin bowling, and much more. Not to mention, hotel developers have set their eyes on Macon after seeing the success of Hotel Forty Five, a boutique hotel with a rooftop bar and chef-driven restaurants! Soon it will be easier than ever to stay in the heart of downtown. Discover pet-friendly eateries, shops, and parks in downtown Macon today!
Macon's new facility 32-Court Indoor Pickleball Facility is Here
The world's largest indoor pickleball facility is here: Meet Rhythm and Rally! The facility offers state-of-the-art courts, a pro shop with equipment, meeting spaces, and more. This facility is a major venue for national league events but they are also open for casual play. You can grab a day pass and enjoy open play by heading to their website to learn more. You can also enjoy outdoor play at the Tattnall Pickleball Center, a 26-court pickleball center found near Mercer University.
Dig in to unique cuisine
Even if you have visited in one season, we guarantee by the time you return there will be new eateries that may become your new favorite. Just to name a few places that have taken Macon's culinary scene by storm, try out Liliana's an Italian street food truck found at Society Garden or experience 3rd and Cherry, featuring high-end local ingredients with a Carribean twist. There's even a wide assortment of international options from Japanese steakhouses like Shogun or authentic Mexican eateries such as Tzango. From chic and modern atmospheres to cozy and eclectic spaces, each venue offers a unique ambiance that adds to the overall appeal. Whether you're a food enthusiast looking to discover cutting-edge dishes or someone seeking a familiar favorite with a fresh twist, Macon's new restaurants provide a compelling reason to venture into the city's evolving culinary landscape.
Plan a King of Soul Themed Trip
Experience the King of Soul like you never have! View the mini museum located on Cotton Avenue where you can buy exclusive merch and see rare memorabilia or prepare for a new resource that will offer performances at a small outdoor amphitheater: The Otis Redding Center for the Arts. With state-of-the-art performance spaces, interactive exhibits, and educational programs, the center aims to inspire the next generation of artists while preserving and promoting the rich cultural heritage of Macon. The Otis Redding Center for the Arts is poised to be a vibrant hub where music enthusiasts, students, and the local community can come together to celebrate the arts, paying homage to Otis Redding's enduring impact on the world of music.
Dance and Sing to the Macon Beat All Night Long
Once the street lights come on, so too does the heartbeat of the city. Experience live performances not only through artists but also local theatrical plays. The Grand Opera House even offers tours from Broadway. Then after the concert, you can grab a late-night bite as many of our downtown restaurants stay open until at least 11PM. Some even stay open until 2AM, Macon Water Ice. There's live music to be heard in many downtown venues like the Historic Grant's Lounge, JBA or The Hummingbird. Or if you prefer a laid-back yet sophisticated setting, we recommend Churchill's on Cherry Cigar Lounge.
With art galleries, shops, and more lining downtown, find late-night hidden gems by exploring Macon after the sun sets to uncover a new world!
Family Fun Activities that Keep Growing
Macon is constantly adding new fun activities for families! Whether it's a business like Macon Rocks, a climbing gym, or catching a Macon Bacon game at Luther Williams Fields, there's always fun in store. The Museum of Arts and Sciences is open year-round and has interactive exhibits, a mini zoo, and a planetarium. Or you visit a nearby orchard that offers different activities depending on the season. Also located only a short drive from Macon, is the Museum of Aviation at Robins Air Force Base. This is the second largest aerospace museum in the United States airforce and it features restored aircrafts, virtual reality simulations, the Georgia Aviation Hall of Fame and more! Bring the whole family, including your pets, by browsing through our hotel and short rental options!
Cool off with a float, kayak or swim!
The Ocmulgee River runs through the center of Macon and even better, there's a beautiful park that takes you through trails and allows you to put a kayak, canoe, or tube in and then an out point. Additioanlly not jsut the ocmulgee is great for sunshine, check out lake tobesofkee. The park offers fishing, volleball, a beach, camping, and R V hook ups.
Visit The Pinkest Party on Earth
If you have not made it to Macon yet for the International Cherry Blossom Festival yet, this is your sign...as each year the concerts, rides, and games get more and more impressive! From March 15 - 24, there are daily activities in Carolyn Crayton Park featuring fair food and games, rides and nightly concerts. And after huge success from last year, the Pink Provision Trail is coming back. Featuring the pinkest food and drinks made by businesses all across Macon and to kick off the event, join us for a preview party on March 15th! You can try samples of different Pink Provision trail menu items which also include pink beverages. With over 350,0000 Yoshino Cherry Trees blooming in Macon, this is one of the most magical times in the city.
