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The 7 Best Things to Do in Macon, GA

Art. Music. Biking. Food. Beer. Macon has it all.

By Rachelle Wilson on December 3, 2019

Nicknamed the heart of Georgia, Macon is an ideal place to work, live and play. With a thriving downtown, numerous higher education options and countless activities to fill the weekends, Macon is a hub of opportunities available for residents and visitors to enjoy. Here’s a look at seven of the best things to do in Macon. 

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1. Explore the historic downtown scene.

Whether you are buying a gift at everyone’s favorite shop Travis Jean Emporium, grabbing lunch at Oliver’s Corner Bistro, picking up a vinyl album at Fresh Produce Records, catching a film at the Douglass Theatre, or splurging on the cocktail your tastebuds long for at Dovetail, downtown Macon has everything you need for a lovely, leisurely day on foot. Want a little guidance as you wander? Rock Candy Tours has your back. 

Macon GA
Macon / Macon-Bibb County Convention & Visitors Bureau

2. Catch a show.

Let Maconites entertain you. Local talent is overflowing in Macon, but there is no shortage of stages on which to find them. For over thirty years Theatre Macon has showcased award-winning plays and continues to be a source of pride for this community. Additionally, theater lovers can get their fix at Macon Little Theatre or any of the collegiate stages. You can catch everything from an off-broadway production of Chicago to an interactive screening of Rocky Horror Picture Show at the opulent Grand Opera House

Music is another wellspring found in Macon. Both the stage at Hargray Capitol Theatre and the stage Hummingbird Stage and Taproom are known for hosting local, regional and national bands on tour regularly. Society Garden and JBA are the go-to stages for local artists and showcase a variety of genres and good drinks. 

Macon GA
Macon / 365 Degree Total Marketing

3. Go outside.

Take to the streets by joining Bike Walk Macon’s bike party. Each month the group hosts a community ride so you can see Macon in a new, unique way. Amerson River Park and the Ocmulgee National Historical Park are also fantastic places to get some sun and enjoy Macon’s natural offerings.

Macon GA
Macon / Macon-Bibb County Convention & Visitors Bureau

4. Learn something new.

For travelers who like to learn on the go, Macon offers museums of every kind. The Museum of Arts and Sciences has everything from an interactive art center, to a mini zoo to a planetarium; all ages will be fascinated by the knowledge within. 

If history is your thing, be sure to add the Tubman Museum to your to-do list. For thirty years, this museum has been dedicated to educating people about the art, history and culture of African Americans. In addition to offering an array of educational and artistic exhibits, the Tubman Museum also hosts cultural events on a regular basis. The Hay House is another historical draw found in Macon. Built from 1855 to 1859 in the Italian Renaissance Revival Style, this 1600-square-foot house is a national historic landmark.

Music lovers can visit the Otis Redding Museum that is still run by his family; The Big House Museum, which showcases memorabilia in a house that was once the home of the Allman Brothers Band; or the Little Richard House which was once home to, you guessed it, Little Richard.

And with the Georgia Sports Hall of Fame, there really is a museum for everyone.

5. Live your fest life.

Considered the festival capital of the South, Macon is ready to help you live your fest life. There is the International Cherry Blossom Festival, the Macon Beer Fest, the musical festival Bragg Jam, and the Macon Film Fest, to name a few. And if you’re looking for something a little smaller that townies are obsessed with, check out the Macon Pops Main Street Christmas Extravaganza or the Magnolia Soap Box Derby.  

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6. Get some culture.

Like any up-and-coming city, Macon has a bustling First Friday scene. Downtown art galleries are open, music is in the streets and culture awaits you. Or get off the beaten path and visit the new and edgy Triangle Arts found in the industrial district on the outskirts of downtown. Either way, you are sure to see something that excites and inspires you.




 



 


 




 






 




 


 


 




 


 




 


 


 





 


 



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7. Drink Beer.

Flavor for days! Whether you are exploring the rotating, 60+ beer selection of Just Tap’d or bar hopping to discover your new favorite micro-brew, the Macon beer scene has got your back. Macon Beer Company pulls its flavor inspiration from the town itself. With brewery tours at its original site and a newly opened brewpub in the heart of downtown, you can find brews like Macon Progress or Macon Love. 

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Piedmont Brewery and Kitchen is another prime spot for putting Macon’s local brews to the test. With BBQ and a game-filled basement in addition to its flavorful beers, Piedmont has something for the entire family. Additionally, Ocmulgee Brewpub continues to please the taste buds with award-winning burgers in addition to their popular beers. Maconites are clearly obsessed with beer because Fall Line Brewing Co. is scheduled to open early 2020, and townies are counting down the days.  

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