Unlock the magic of summer and escape to the Georgia town

Words by Paige Townley

With the sun shining bright and temperatures rising, it's time to embrace the spirit of summer and embark on an unforgettable adventure in Milledgeville, Georgia. Nestled in the heart of central Georgia, this enchanting town emerges as a haven for those seeking the quintessential summer getaway. From outdoor escapades to culinary delights, Milledgeville offers a myriad of experiences to make your summer truly special. So, pack your bags, gather your friends, and set out on a journey to Milledgeville to check off all the boxes on your summertime bucket list. 

Visit Lake Sinclair

Nature abounds in Milledgeville. As the home of Lake Sinclair, the town is the go-to destination for all things fishing, swimming, boating, and camping. The family-friendly lake offers 15,300 acres of beautiful open waters and more than 500 miles of scenic shoreline, and even if you don’t own a boat, no problem. There are multiple marinas nearby that rent boats and jet skis by the day or half day. Some even offer fishing guides that can take the whole crew to the best fishing spots to reel in the big one, including Rocky Creek Park, a favorite destination on Lake Sinclair.

Paddle the Oconee River

Lake Sinclair isn’t the only spot to take advantage of Milledgeville’s water. The Oconee River offers picturesque, gentle waters that are ideal for kayaking down the river. Two local rental companies rent out all of the gear needed to make a day on the water, but that day isn’t complete without checking out the Oconee River Greenway Park and Riverwalk, where you’ll find trails, paths, and boardwalks ideal for enjoying the beauty of the river.

Bike Bartram Forest

If you prefer land instead, just a few miles outside of town is Bartram Forest, a vast managed area where trails, ponds, forests, and fields offer a beautiful backdrop to recreation activities. Bartram Forest offers three looping trails through the area that are ideal for biking or hiking, all of which are marked for skill level.

Walk the Historic District

Step back in time and immerse yourself in the storied past of Milledgeville as you stroll through Milledgeville’s historic district. Lace up your most comfortable walking shoes and embark on a journey passing by over 40 preserved historic homes, each bearing witness to Milledgeville’s rich heritage and architectural splendor. Be sure to pick up a self-guided historic walking brochure at the Milledgeville Visitor’s Center to enhance your exploration. As you wander along tree-lined streets, marvel at the grandeur of Georgia’s Old Governor's Mansion and Georgia's Old State Capital Building, two iconic landmarks that stand as testaments to the town's time as the capital of Georgia. 

Go Shopping

Indulge in a serious shopping excursion in the heart of Milledgeville's charming Downtown District, where an array of unique boutiques and antique shops awaits. Whether you're in search of stylish clothing, one-of-a-kind decor pieces, or timeless treasures, you'll find everything you desire within walking distance from each other. For the fashion-forward shopper, Firefly Boutique, Miles of Styles, and Southern Roots beckon with their curated collections of trendy apparel and accessories, promising both style and affordability. Antique enthusiasts will delight in perusing the eclectic offerings at Auntie Bellum Antiques, where hidden gems and vintage treasures abound. Looking for the perfect souvenir or a thoughtful gift? Look no further than Eclectic and Market Collective, where a diverse selection of decorations, accessories, and unique finds awaits discovery. 

Indulge in Culinary Delights

Embark on a culinary journey through the vibrant flavors of Milledgeville, where an array of dining options awaits to satisfy every palate. Start your day on a delicious note with a visit to Greene's Farmhouse Foods, a charming eatery nestled in the heart of downtown. Indulge in customizable Southern comfort fare, featuring a delectable selection of bases, sides, and proteins, available from breakfast through brunch on weekends. For breakfast enthusiasts, The Local Yolkal beckons with its mouthwatering eggs benedict, served in seven delightful varieties and hailed as one of Georgia's best-loved plates by locals. Adjacent to Georgia College's Main Campus, Morning Grind offers a cozy retreat for coffee aficionados, with a tempting menu of specialty creations and freshly baked goods. Meanwhile, Blackbird Coffee invites you to savor the rich aroma of freshly roasted coffee beans, paired with a menu of gourmet beverages to please even the most discerning palate. Complete your culinary adventure with a visit to Avanti's Sweet Treats and More, where local baker Shamada Hightower crafts heavenly cheesecakes, cookies, and brownies in an array of innovative flavors.

From farmer’s markets and picnics to a visit to historic downtown Milledgeville, there’s so much more to explore in this charming Georgia town. Plan your visit now at visitmilledgeville.org.