Things To Do
Events
Food & Drink
Hotels & Lodging
Plan Your Trip
An abundance of warm days and ample sunshine make Milledgeville Georgia’s small town summer one that’s not to be missed! Our charming downtown will always have a warm and friendly welcome waiting for you. Little treasures await to be discovered inside our boutiques and antique stores scattered throughout our 10 block historic district. Get lost in the architectural grandeur when you take a leisurely stroll down oak-lined streets in downtown Milledgeville.
Admittedly the friendly greetings spill a few miles down the road to Lake Sinclair. From cruising the lake shore to fishing with the kids to margaritas al fresco, there’s a variety of recreational fun to keep you cool and in the summer spirit.
Lakeside Adventures
Just a short trip away from the hustle & bustle of Atlanta, Lake Sinclair’s beautiful waters offer recreational enjoyment for everyone. Grab the family, pup and all, and head to Milledgeville for a long weekend! The kids and kids-at-heart will love bouncing the waves on a jet ski or casting a rod to catch the big one! If you don't have a boat, no problem, many area marinas rent them by the half or full day. For boat rentals and fishing guides try Sinclair Marina. Boats and jet skis are available from Twin Lakes Jet Ski as well as JereShai Lakeside.
Looking for something on the shore? Rocky Creek Park allows visitors to enjoy Lake Sinclair without the need for a boat. Bring a picnic or cook-out on the grills by the pavilion. The swimming beach access makes it easy for anyone to splash in the lake or float the day away! Kids will have a blast building sandcastles or running on the pirate ship playground. There’s even a fishing pier and a boat ramp for easy access to Lake Sinclair!
Not wanting the fun to end? Watch the sunset sparkling on the lake while relaxing in an adirondack chair from your lakeside rental home. Local Vacation Rentals are available to accommodate your family, friends and fireside chats. These stunning homes will make your stay more memorable and relaxing. On a budget? Milledgeville has great hotels and camping sites for all!
Paddle Excursions
Next up on your summer in Milledgeville adventure - get your float on! Milledgeville offers two kayaking opportunities to soak up your share of Vitamin D and indulge your adventurous side. Lake Sinclair encompasses 15,300 acres of inlets and coves to explore while the Oconee River can be enjoyed by paddlers of all experience levels.
The upper Oconee trip (Sinclair Dam to Oconee River Greenway) takes about 2 - 2 ½ hours and while you don’t need to be an expert, there are some rapids as you get close to the Greenway. The lower Oconee trip (Oconee River Greenway to Central State Boat ramp) is the most common trip, the float takes about 2 ½ - 3 hours and is recommended for a relaxing river day.
Local outfitters will rent you a kayak for the half or full day as well as provide transportation to drop off and pick up sites. If you aren’t feeling up for an epic solo trip, there are small group floats available down the Oconee River as well. Plan your trip to get on the water with our locals Mac's Yaks, Krazy Dave's or Oconee Outfitters.
Cool Drinks
Need a break from the summer sunshine? Pop into downtown Milledgeville where cool drinks and historic southern charm await. The only difficult decision you’ll have to make is frozen or on the rocks as you grab colorful, flavored Margaritas from Bollywood Tacos. More of a beer fan? Hop on down to Amici where you’ll have your pick of Georgia crafted brews all with excellent big screen views! We can’t miss talking about the Reel Grill and their refreshing drink concoction “Love Letters” paying homage to local author Flannery O’Connor.
Looking for something non-alcoholic? Check out Blackbird Coffee, a locally owned roaster, for an assortment of iced coffees and frappuccinos. The smell of fresh roasting coffee alone is worth the stop! If you don't like coffee try their Berry Pom’ade, a sweet and tart lemonade that will give you a quick cool down.
Try something new to refresh yourself at Cravings with their selection of bubble teas to choose from. Bubble tea is a Taiwanese cold drink made with tea, sweetened milk or other flavorings, and balls or “pearls” of tapioca. Cravings hand makes their “pearls” and we’d recommend the strawberry surf for a refreshing flavor!
Picnics in the Park
Nothing says summer quite like a picnic! When you need a breath of fresh air, the spacious grounds and wide collection of plants at Lockerly Arboretum will more than satisfy you. Pick a secluded spot on the 50-acre public garden or make use of a table near the pond to enjoy lunch. Appreciate peaceful conversation and watch birds and wildlife while eating lunch, then take a stroll through the walking trails. More good news - Lockerly is pup friendly! Go ahead and grab a blanket!
If you want a view of the river, Oconee River Greenway has great spots with picnic tables right along the water. The Greenway is perfect for sandwiches from Goodie Gallery and don't forget to grab one of their mouthwatering desserts. Relax and enjoy the beauty and sounds of the Oconee River while eating, then take a stroll through the walking paths.
If you are looking for a quick daytime break, the Georgia College front campus is the perfect nearby spot for an outdoor lunch. With the historic downtown being so close, you have a variety of options to grab a meal from like a lunch plate from Georgia Bob’s. Grab a blanket and choose a spot on the green and enjoy the view of the historic campus.
Have a picnic for dinner at Walter B. Williams Park, “Sunset Fields”, for a perfect view of the sunset. With an open view and field, watch the sun disappear behind the horizon and take advantage of the picture perfect moments. This is a great spot for a romantic evening with a pizza from Amici or wings from The Brick.
If you want to spruce up your picnic basket, head to The Market Collective for unique beverages, snacks and bread kits to make at home. Try a bottle of Butter Pecan Cream Soda with some of their jams and breads.
Small Town Charm
Many come to Milledgeville with one thing on their mind: rich history, as she served as the capital of Georgia from 1803 to 1868. Home to over 10 blocks of historic architecture featuring Greek Revival and Victorian style homes, our Historic Walking Tour invites you in on each of their pasts! Georgia’s Old Governor's Mansion, owned by Georgia College & State University, welcomes you into its breathtakingly beautiful pink walls to learn more about its history.
The famous American author, Flannery O’Connor, lived in Milledgeville on Andalusia Farm, now a house museum owned by Georgia College & State University. The beautiful property preserves the home that is filled with literary pieces and exhibits that convey the life of O’Connor. A quirky, local favorite are the peacocks on the property.
Featuring a vibrant downtown, visitors will find crave-worthy establishments, a locally roasted coffee shop, southern boutiques and memorable antiques. If you have a sweet tooth, be sure to get the famous Smiley Face cookie from Ryal’s Bakery! No matter where you go in downtown, you’re bound to find a treasure or two.
Whether you’re looking to experience our rich history, enjoy all that downtown has to offer, or soak up the sun on the water, Milledgeville has exactly what you’re looking for this summer and can’t wait to welcome you!