MaconUnited States of America

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 the family 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.