Best Small Town Fall Getaway

Tucked between Atlanta and Savannah, shades of autumn are descending on Milledgeville. Our bountiful history, breathtaking natural scenery, and small-town charm will have you clearing your calendar for a long weekend getaway.

As a college town and former 19th century capital of Georgia, Milledgeville is brimming with historic character cloaked in a kaleidoscope of colors, a vibrant downtown district offering seasonal menu options and cozy accessories, and outdoor adventure options from hiking amongst the crunching leaves to kayaking through the reflections. Enjoy fall at its finest -- linger, relax, and explore the beauty of Milledgeville.

WALK THROUGH THE Historic DOWNTOWN DISTRICT

Founded in 1803, Milledgeville was built as the capital of Georgia and remained the capital for more than 60 years. Go on a self-guided historic walking tour and stroll past homes, churches, and public buildings that celebrate various architectural styles refined over the last 200 years. Discover why Southern Living has listed Milledgeville as one of the prettiest small towns in Georgia as you walk the towering tree-lined streets of Milledgeville and learn about the well-preserved Federal-style architecture, enhanced by noteworthy Greek Revival, Victorian, and Classic revival houses. Keep your eyes peeled for changing leaves as well as architecture galore, including fan favorites like Georgia’s Old Capitol Building and the campus of Georgia College & State University. Plus, the added bonus of the season’s cooler temperatures means that walking the district won’t have you breaking a sweat!

TOUR GEORGIA’S OLD GOVERNOR'S MANSION

An iconic Milledgeville landmark, Georgia’s Old Governor’s Mansion is a must-visit on your fall bucket list. This stunning building has been restored to its 1851 state from the time of Governor Howell Cobb's residence. During the one-hour tour, guests will learn about the individuals who lived in the home from 1839 to 1868, when the Mansion served as the primary residence for Georgia's governors, as well as the indentured and enslaved people who worked there. Discover the Mansion’s architectural and decorative features while gaining insight into the complex social issues leading up to the American Civil War. Tours are offered Tuesday through Saturday, 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., and Sunday, 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. with tours starting at the top of each hour.

FIND COMFORT IN MILLEDGEVILLE'S CUISINE 

As the crisp fall air and crunchy leaves surround you, you'll likely find yourself craving a warm and comforting meal. Milledgeville’s diverse dining scene hits the spot every time. If you’re longing for a classic combination, head over to The Brick and indulge in a local favorite: creamy tomato soup paired with the Four Cheese Bacon Tomato Melt. For flavorful and rich options, Kai Thai serves satisfying Thai noodle dishes and ramen that will leave you full and content. Local coffee shops like Blackbird Coffee and Morning Grind feature seasonal menus with favorites like pumpkin spice, along with other creative concoctions. 

PADDLE ALONG THE WINDING RIVER

For those looking to take a break from the museums and shopping of the historic district, head down to the Oconee River for a scenic kayaking trip. As you make your way along the river, you’ll notice the beautiful fall colors of the surrounding trees and undisturbed wildlife. The Oconee River Greenway provides a boat ramp with easy access to the river. If you do not have a kayak, check out Oconee Outfitters or Mac’s Yak Kayak Rental to see their options. Don’t want your peaceful journey to end there? The Greenway offers plenty of autumn fun, whether you like to bike, hike, or stroll the shaded trails to enjoy the stillness of nature. 

SHOP LOCAL

Milledgeville’s shopping scene features incredible local businesses that curate unique selections of products while providing personal and attentive customer service. Refresh your wardrobe at boutiques like Firefly and the French Vill’edge, offering a wide array of trendy women’s clothing and accessories. For men's clothing and gifts, Southern Roots boasts a selection of name-brand apparel, high-quality self-care products, and sporty accessories. To find Lake Sinclair and Milledgeville-themed items to commemorate your stay, visit Eclectic, where local housewares and accessories await. Finally, uncover vintage treasures at Auntie Bellum’s Attic or Little River Antiques, where gems await around every corner.

EXPLORE BARTRAM FOREST

Hiking and biking enthusiasts will love the fall foliage and crispy, fresh air at Bartram Forest. Venture along small ponds, over bridges, and through the pines for an elevated terrain that will reconnect you with the quiet joy of Mother Nature’s most colorful season. For cyclists, just note that the trails are natural terrain and are best suited to mountain biking. When you are ready to continue exploring, Milledgeville offers plenty of beautiful spots for a fall stroll.

IMMERSE YOURSELF IN THE LIFE OF FLANNERY O'CONNOR

Nestled on 500 acres of stunning forest and pasture lands, Andalusia is the celebrated home of one of America’s greatest short-story authors, Flannery O’Connor. Today, you can take a guided tour of the farmhouse where Flannery and her family lived, see treasured artifacts from the property’s past at the Interpretive Center, stroll walking trails while admiring the fall foliage, or peruse the farm’s outbuildings while visiting the site’s well-known peacocks! As an added bonus, the front porch boasts rocking chairs designed for a quiet moment of reflection and relaxation among the land that inspired O’Connor. Want to learn more? There are five sites in Milledgeville that will take you through her life.

Add Fall Events to Your Itinerary

Fall brings a lively lineup of can’t-miss fall events to Milledgeville, filling the season with memorable experiences. Those fascinated by local lore can join the Ghosts of Milledgeville Walking Tour, offered on select Friday evenings and Saturday mornings in September and October, to hear stories of the city’s storied past. The season also features Milledgeville’s most anticipated event, the Deep Roots Festival, returning Saturday, October 18th, with live music, food trucks, and local vendors filling the streets downtown. To round out your plans, check the full events calendar to discover even more ways to make the most of autumn in Milledgeville.

RELAX BY THE LAKE

As autumn settles over Lake Sinclair, the pace slows and the water mirrors the season’s brilliant colors. Picture mornings that begin with coffee on the dock, where the mist drifts across the surface and the air feels crisp and calm. Evenings bring bonfires that glow against the water, the sound of laughter, and crackling wood carrying across the still shoreline. Whether you’re wrapped in a blanket watching the sunset or stargazing beneath a clear Georgia sky, a lakeside stay is all about savoring the quiet moments that make fall unforgettable.

Find Your Perfect Stay

For a retreat that wraps you in comfort and character, Milledgeville offers charming stays both in town and just a short drive away. Downtown, the Inn on North Jefferson welcomes guests with elegant, boutique-style rooms just steps from historic streets and local shops. Nearby, the 1930s cottage invites you to linger in its vintage charm, with sun-filled rooms, cozy nooks, and a quiet garden perfect for sipping morning coffee. A quick drive leads to The Hideaway, a tucked-away spot near Lake Sinclair where evenings can be spent stargazing from a private porch or unwinding by a fire pit. For those who favor familiar amenities, nearby chain hotels, like the Holiday Inn Express and Suites, provide convenience and comfort. From historic downtown stays to secluded hideaways, each option offers a cozy escape to relax, recharge, and enjoy the season’s slower pace.