Visit Milledgeville: Georgia’s Ultimate Small-Town Getaway
Looking for a small-town escape with big personality? Milledgeville is the perfect destination, chock-full of restaurants, boutiques, lakes, trails and sites detailing a rich history dating back to the 1800s. Tucked between Atlanta and Savannah, Milledgeville boasts a variety of pleasures, whether you want to relax by lapping waters, learn the story behind impressive architecture or enjoy a lakeside meal.
History & Culture
Founded in 1803, Milledgeville was Georgia’s capital from 1804-1868, and remnants of those former times are scattered around nearly every street corner.
Walk or take a leisurely ride through the Historic Downtown District on a Historic Trolley Tour, and Milledgeville architecture will tell you tales of its past.
As Milly the Trolley rolls along, you’ll catch sights of places like Georgia’s Old Governor’s Mansion, the peach-colored High Greek Revival building that once housed Georgia chief executives, as well as the abandoned Central State Hospital Campus, founded in 1842. While visitors cannot tour the interior of the former asylum’s quarters, you can learn about the haunting stories the weather- and time-worn exterior tells on a trolley tour.
Visit the quaint Andalusia Farm, home of American writer Flannery O’Connor from 1951-1964. Nearby, find the Andalusia Interpretive Center, exhibiting O’Connor’s personal belongings, photographs and details of her years at the farm, where she completed some of her most famous works, including “A Good Man Is Hard to Find” and “The Violent Bear It Away.”
Outdoor Activities
With lakes, rivers, trails, natural scenery and sunshine, Milledgeville is a great environment for outdoor fun and relaxation.
Oconee River Greenway, a park and riverwalk just far enough from downtown, has trails and boardwalks for running or biking with friends or leashed dogs. Plus, the boat ramp allows easy access to the river via kayak or canoe, so you can race on the waters or float under the shining sun.
Lake Sinclair, a wide-open waterfront flanked by shores dense with trees, is ripe for activities. Reel in a wriggling largemouth bass, paddle along in a kayak, watch the sunset reflect against the gentle waves, Jet Ski or make a splash jumping from a pontoon boat. Need equipment? Rent paddleboards, Jet Skis, boats and more at nearby outfitters and marinas.
Walking trails, greenhouses, a picnic area, serene pond and 50 acres of gardens containing native flora await at Lockerly Arboretum. Gaze at hardwoods, ferns, pedaled blooms — keep an eye out for Georgia’s state flower, the delicate Cherokee rose — and so many more inspiring natural sights, including a section of bald cypress that’s more than 300 years old. On the property is the Woods Museum: Admire and learn more about the importance of both native and non-native amphibians and reptiles like pythons, corn snakes, alligators and turtles.
Restaurants & Bars
Milledgeville restaurants, bars, farms and markets provide high-quality cuisine expertly crafted from regional ingredients that’ll keep you satisfied before, during and after a day packed with adventure.
From breakfast classics like powdered-sugar-dusted pancakes at Local Yolkal to savory Chicken Shawarma Taco at Bollywood Tacos and guacamole-topped carne asada fries at Los Magueyes, the choices offer something for every appetite. Plus, colorful cocktails at places like lakeside Taylor’s Cove make dining (and sipping) in this small town unforgettable. Discover the story behind local farm-to-table produce and meats at farms and markets.
Have a sweet tooth? The town’s many bakeries serve up fresh-baked cookies, cupcakes, strudels, pies, brownies, cakes and more delectable treats.
Nightlife also won’t disappoint. Whether you’re looking for a romantic setting for evening drinks or a lively atmosphere for dancing with friends, you’ll find bars, live music venues, late-night karaoke spots and other places to enjoy the town.
Shopping
From a large mall to antique shops and locally owned boutiques selling homemade, one-of-a-kind gifts, shopping in Milledgeville provides an array of options. Find your new favorite artisan soap, carefully stitched clothing, antique furniture, jewelry and other souvenirs to commemorate your stay.
Hotels & Lodging
Lakeside campgrounds, hotels and vacation rentals (including the 1928 Bungalow on-site at the Central State Hospital) provide cozy, relaxing and historical places to stay in Milledgeville. No matter where you lay your head, you won’t be far from the action and charm that makes this cozy town so special.
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