25 Best Things to Do in South Georgia – Hidden Gems & Must-See Attractions

 Looking for things to do in South Georgia? This region is packed with breathtaking nature, rich history, and exciting attractions. You can hike through Providence Canyon, kayak in Okefenokee Swamp, or relax on Jekyll Island’s beaches. Each spot offers a unique experience that makes every trip unforgettable. 

History lovers can explore Andersonville National Historic Site and the Jimmy Carter National Historic Site, while families can enjoy a day at Wild Adventures Theme Park. Couples can plan a romantic getaway with wine tasting, river cruises, or a stay on St. Simons Island. Food lovers will find authentic Southern BBQ, fresh seafood in St. Marys, and farm-to-table dining across the region.

If you’re planning a trip soon then this guide must for you because this post will highlights the best South Georgia attractions to help you make the most of your visit!

Best Outdoor Activities in South Georgia

South Georgia is filled with natural beauty and it offers many outdoor adventures. If you enjoy hiking, wildlife, or scenic views, these incredible destinations will help you connect with nature and create unforgettable experiences.

1. Explore Okefenokee Swamp 

• Location: Okefenokee Swamp Park, Waycross, GA
• Hours: Wednesday – Sunday: 9 AM – 5 PM (Closed Monday & Tuesday)
• Cost: Adults $20, Children (3-11) $19, Boat Package (includes admission) Adults $30, Children $25

If you love nature then Okefenokee Swamp is a must-see place for you. Take a guided boat tour to spot alligators, birds, and cypress trees. If you prefer to stay on land, walk along the boardwalk trails and enjoy the quiet beauty of the swamp. This place is perfect for a peaceful escape into nature.

2. Hike at Providence Canyon 

• Location: Providence Canyon State Park, Lumpkin, GA
• Hours: 7 AM – 6 PM
• Cost: $5 per vehicle

If you love hiking then Providence Canyon is a must-visit. The bright red and orange canyon walls create an incredible landscape. The trails take you deep into the canyon and offer amazing photo opportunities. It’s the perfect place for anyone who enjoys outdoor adventures.

3. Relax at Jekyll Island’s Beautiful Beaches

• Location: Jekyll Island, GA
• Hours: Open 24/7
• Cost: $8 per vehicle (Parking Fee)

If you want a relaxing beach trip, Jekyll Island is a great choice. Walk along Driftwood Beach, ride a bike on the coastal trails, or have a picnic by the ocean. This island is perfect for families and couples, offering a peaceful escape with beautiful views.

4. Radium Springs Gardens 

• Location: Albany, GA
• Hours: 8 AM – 7 PM
• Cost: Free

Radium Springs Gardens is one of Georgia’s Seven Natural Wonders. The clear blue waters and lush gardens make it a perfect spot for a quiet afternoon or a scenic walk. If you love peaceful places surrounded by nature, you will enjoy this hidden gem.

Historical & Cultural Attractions in South Georgia

South Georgia has a rich history, from Civil War landmarks to the hometown of a U.S. President. Explore these fascinating sites to step back in time and experience the region’s heritage.

5. Visit Andersonville National Historic Site

• Location: Andersonville, GA
• Hours: 9 AM – 4:30 PM
• Cost: Free

History lovers should visit Andersonville National Historic Site. This former Civil War prison camp is now a museum and memorial that tells the story of prisoners of war. Walking through the site gives you a deep look into the past and a greater appreciation for history.

6. the Museum of Agriculture

• Location: Tifton, GA
• Hours: 9 AM – 5 PM
• Cost: $7 – $10 per person

At the Georgia Museum of Agriculture, you can step back in time and see how farming shaped the region. You can explore old-fashioned farm equipment, watch live demonstrations, and take part in interactive exhibits that bring Georgia’s farming history to life. This is a great spot for families and anyone curious about Georgia’s rural history.

7. Tour the Old Governor’s Mansion in Milledgeville

• Location: Milledgeville, GA
• Hours: Tuesday – Saturday: 10 AM – 4 PM; Sunday: 2 PM – 4 PM (Closed Monday)
• Cost: Adults $10, Seniors $7, Students $2

If you enjoy history and architecture, you’ll love The Old Governor’s Mansion. This stunning antebellum home is one of the best-preserved historic sites in Georgia. A guided tour gives you a fascinating look at Georgia’s political history and elegant 19th-century design.

Romantic & Relaxing Getaways in South Georgia

You can enjoy a peaceful getaway in South Georgia. Taste local wine, take a river cruise, or stay at a cozy bed and breakfast. These places are great for a relaxing trip with your partner.

8. Enjoy Wine Tasting at Horse Creek Winery

• Location: Nashville, GA
• Hours: Wednesday – Saturday: 11 AM – 6 PM
• Cost: Wine tastings start at $10

If you love wine, Horse Creek Winery is the perfect place to visit. You can sample locally made wines, stroll through the vineyards, and enjoy the relaxing atmosphere. It’s a great spot for a romantic afternoon or a fun outing with friends.

9. Take a River Cruise in Columbus

• Location: Columbus, GA
• Hours: Varies by tour company
• Cost: Prices start at $30 per person

A river cruise on the Chattahoochee River is a peaceful way to see Columbus. Take a daytime tour to enjoy the views or a sunset dinner cruise for a special evening. It’s a simple and relaxing way to explore the city.

10. Stay at a Cozy Bed & Breakfast on St. Simons Island

• Location: St. Simons Island, GA
• Hours: Check-in: 3 PM, Check-out: 11 AM 
• Cost: Varies by location

You can book a stay at a charming bed and breakfast on St. Simons Island For a romantic getaway. Enjoy beautiful ocean views, delicious breakfasts, and easy access to the beach. This is a perfect retreat for couples looking for a peaceful escape.

Family-Friendly Fun in South Georgia

South Georgia is packed with exciting and educational activities for families. If you’re looking for fun experiences that everyone will enjoy, these attractions offer a perfect mix of adventure and entertainment.

11. Wild Adventures Theme Park

• Location: Valdosta, GA
• Hours: Varies by season
• Cost: Tickets start at $49.99 per person

If you’re looking for thrills and excitement, Wild Adventures Theme Park is a perfect place to visit for you. It offers roller coasters, a water park, live animal exhibits, and family-friendly shows. If you’re visiting with kids or enjoy amusement parks, this place is perfect for a fun and exciting day.

12. Explore Flint RiverQuarium

• Location: Albany, GA
• Hours: 10 AM – 5 PM (Closed Mondays)
• Cost: Adults $9, Children (4-12) $6.50

If you love marine life, the Flint RiverQuarium is a great place to explore. You can see native fish, turtles, and alligators up close. This interactive aquarium is both fun and educational, making it a great activity for families and curious travelers alike.

13. Visit the Jack Hadley Black History Museum

• Location: Thomasville, GA
• Hours: 10 AM – 4 PM (Closed Sundays & Mondays)
• Cost: $10 per person

You can step into history at the Jack Hadley Black History Museum. This museum highlights the rich African American heritage of South Georgia, featuring artifacts, historical documents, and inspiring exhibits. It’s a must-visit for anyone interested in Black history and culture.

Unique & Local Experiences in South Georgia

South Georgia is full of one-of-a-kind experiences that give you a deeper connection to the region.You can pick fresh fruit, explore local arts, and create unforgettable memories on your trip.

14. Pick Fresh Peaches at a Local Farm

• Location: Various locations in South Georgia
• Hours: Seasonal (May-August)
• Cost: Varies by farm

There’s nothing like picking fresh Georgia peaches straight from the tree. Visit a local peach orchard to experience South Georgia’s agricultural charm. You can also enjoy homemade peach ice cream, fresh cider, and baked goods while you’re there.

15. Watch a Show at the Historic Rylander Theatre

• Location: Americus, GA
• Hours: Showtimes vary
• Cost: Ticket prices vary

You can visit the Rylander Theatre for a night of entertainment. This beautifully restored 1920s-era venue hosts live performances, concerts, and classic films. If you love theater or just want a fun night out, this is the perfect place to go.

16. Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride Over South Georgia

• Location: Various launch sites
• Hours: Sunrise flights available
• Cost: Starts at $250 per person

Experience the beauty of South Georgia from above with a hot air balloon ride over rolling hills, forests, and farms. It’s a peaceful and breathtaking way to see the region from above. Perfect for couples and thrill-seekers!

Best Local Food & Drinks in South Georgia

South Georgia is a food lover’s paradise. You can  Enjoy authentic Southern barbecue, fresh seafood, and farm-to-table dining in South Georgia. If you crave slow-cooked meats or locally caught shrimp, these spots will satisfy your appetite. Best vacation rentals near Georgia. 

17. Enjoy Authentic Southern BBQ at White Oak Pastures

• Location: Bluffton, GA
• Hours: 11 AM – 8 PM
• Cost: Varies by meal

If you’re a fan of Southern barbecue then  you have to visit White Oak Pastures. This family-owned farm-to-table restaurant serves some of the best smoked meats, brisket, and ribs in the region. The flavors are rich, the portions are generous, and the experience is 100% authentic.

18. Try Fresh Seafood in St. Marys

• Location: St. Marys, GA
• Hours: Varies by restaurant
• Cost: Varies by meal

South Georgia has some of the freshest seafood. In St. Marys, you can enjoy shrimp, oysters, and crab straight from the Atlantic. From casual dockside spots to fine dining, there’s something for everyone.

Exciting Things to Do in South Georgia This Weekend

Looking for something fun to do this weekend? South Georgia has festivals, events, and unique experiences that bring communities together. Here are some exciting ways to spend your time.

19. Attend the Annual Georgia Peanut Festival

• Location: Sylvester, GA
• Hours: Typically held in October
• Cost: Free admission

Celebrate Georgia’s famous peanut industry at the Georgia Peanut Festival. Enjoy parades, food vendors, live music, and fun activities for all ages. This is a great event for families and food lovers looking to experience local culture.

20. Experience the Sunbelt Agricultural Expo in Moultrie

• Location: Moultrie, GA
• Hours: Annually in October
• Cost: $10 per person

The Sunbelt Agricultural Expo is one of the biggest farming events in the country. This massive expo offers something for everyone, from agriculture to cutting-edge farming technology. If you enjoy exploring innovative exhibits or discovering new advancements, you’ll find plenty to see and experience.

Outdoor Adventures in South Georgia

South Georgia is known for its fresh seafood. In St. Marys, you can enjoy shrimp, oysters, and crab straight from the Atlantic.

21. Explore the Okefenokee Swamp

• Location: Waycross, GA
• Hours: 9 AM – 5 PM (Daily)
• Cost: Adults $20, Children $19 (boat tours extra) 

If you want to experience the wild side of South Georgia, exploring the Okefenokee Swamp is a must. This vast swamp is home to alligators, birds, and other wildlife, and you can take a guided boat tour or stroll the boardwalks to see its beauty up close. It’s a peaceful adventure in one of Georgia’s natural wonders that nature lovers and families alike will remember. 

22. Hike through Providence Canyon

• Location: Lumpkin, GA
• Hours: 7 AM – 6 PM (Daily)
• Cost: $5 parking fee 

You can visit Providence Canyon State Park for stunning natural scenery in South Georgia. Nicknamed Georgia’s Little Grand Canyon, it features colorful, layered cliffs and gullies that make a perfect backdrop for a day hike. Easy paths and great views make it perfect for both casual walkers and serious hikers.

23. Discover Cumberland Island National Seashore

• Location: Cumberland Island (Ferry from St. Marys, GA)
• Hours: Daily (Ferry at 9 AM & 11:45 AM, check schedule)
• Cost: $15 park admission (round-trip ferry ~$40 adult, $30 child) 

If you’re up for a bit of adventure, take a ferry to Cumberland Island National Seashore off the South Georgia coast. This untouched island paradise is famous for its wild horses, unspoiled beaches, and historic ruins of a Carnegie mansion. You can spend the day hiking under moss-draped oaks, picnicking by the dunes, and soaking in the natural beauty of this secluded coastal gem.

History & Heritage in South Georgia

South Georgia has a rich past waiting to be explored. These locations, which range from historic farms to a president’s hometown, make history fun and easy to connect with.

24. Georgia Museum of Agriculture

• Location: Tifton, GA
• Hours: 9 AM – 3 PM (Tue–Fri), 9 AM – 4 PM (Sat)
• Cost: Adults $10,

Children $5 (under 5 free) Experience a slice of the past at the Georgia Museum of Agriculture. This living history museum lets you explore a 19th-century farm, complete with costumed guides, historic buildings, and even a steam train ride. Exploring South Georgia’s rural heritage is a fun experience. You can watch blacksmiths shape metal and step inside an old country store. It’s a glimpse into how people lived and farmed over a century ago.

25. Visit the Jimmy Carter National Historic Site

• Location: Plains, GA
• Hours: 9 AM – 5 PM (Daily)
• Cost: Free

If you want to learn about a past president you must visit the Jimmy Carter National Historic Site in Plains. You can learn about the life of the 39th U.S. President by touring his old high school (now a museum) and the train depot that served as his campaign headquarters. Strolling through this small South Georgia town gives you an inspiring look at President Carter’s humble beginnings and the best part is, it’s free to explore.

Conclusion

Exploring things to do in South Georgia brings stunning nature, rich history, and exciting adventures. Hike through Providence Canyon, kayak in Okefenokee Swamp, or enjoy fresh seafood in St. Marys. Each place offers something special.

This region offers great experiences for families and perfect getaways for couples. If you love good food, Southern BBQ and farm-to-table dining will make your trip even better.

Now is the time to start planning! For the best travel experience, book your stay with iBidBnB and explore South Georgia like a local.