Milledgeville's Summer Bucket List

Summer is the perfect time to soak up the sunshine, try something new, and make unforgettable memories, and there’s no better place to do it than Milledgeville, Georgia. From days spent on the water to evenings filled with local flavors and scenic strolls, Milledgeville offers countless ways to enjoy the season. For those looking to explore, unwind, and experience the best of summer, this bucket list highlights a few favorite local adventures.

Sail Around on the Glistening Waters of Lake Sinclair 

Summers are known to get a little warm in the South. The best cure for summer heat is the rushing breezes of Lake Sinclair as you're cruising across the water on a boat. Lake Sinclair is 15,300 acres of coves and open waters. It is a family-friendly lake with easy access to fishing spots, swimming beaches, scenic views, and places to camp. Looking for a place to rent a boat? Try out one of our area marinas. 

Bike through Bartram Forest

Queue up your favorite song put your headphones in, and get ready to let your pedals do the talking. Located only a few miles outside of Milledgeville, Bartram Forest is full of winding trails, pine trees that touch the sky, and trickling creeks. The trails are perfect for biking, jogging, or simply just taking a walk, but our favorite method of travel through Bartram is on a bike.  

Paddle the Oconee River

The Oconee River provides a stunning backdrop, with its flowing waters, scenic landscapes, and abundant wildlife. Whether you're paddling downstream or just taking in the view, it’s a great way to enjoy the outdoors. Local outfitters, Oconee Outfitters and Mac’s Yak Kayak Rental, provide equipment and transportation for a hassle-free adventure. If you'd rather stay on dry land, the Oconee River Greenway has paved trails perfect for walking or biking alongside the water.

Try Modern Farmhouse Food at Greene's

During your ultimate summer escape to Milledgeville, Georgia, make sure Greene's Southern Kitchen is on your list of must-visit spots! This charming eatery in the heart of downtown invites you to customize your dining experience with a delightful array of bases, sides, and proteins. Open on weekdays for breakfast and lunch and serving brunch on Sundays, Greene’s is the go-to spot for delicious Southern comfort food.

Savor Unbeatable Eggs Benedict

Rediscover a brunch favorite at the downtown gem, Local Yolkal. While the menu features a variety of delicious breakfast, brunch, and lunch options, the restaurant is best known for its signature Eggs Benedict. Recognized as one of the Top 100 Plates in Georgia, Local Yolkal serves up several unique variations, from the classic version to a Lowcountry-inspired twist featuring a savory crab cake.

Get a Caffeine Boost

Morning Grind is located adjacent to Georgia College’s Main Campus. Their cozy, relaxing space offers indoor and outdoor dining to enjoy their specialty creations like Thunder Thirst, KP’s Blend, and more. They also have a variety of baked goods and sandwiches that periodically cycle into the menu. Convenient to shopping in downtown Milledgeville, Blackbird Coffee roasts its coffee in-house and has a menu sure to satisfy even the pickiest of coffee lovers. Try an iced vanilla latte or a berry pom’ade (for non-coffee lovers) from this rustic local favorite.  

Stroll the Historic District

Enjoy the warm weather with a stroll through Milledgeville’s historic downtown district. Stop by the Milledgeville Visitor’s Center to pick up a self-guided Historic Walking Tour brochure and explore more than 40 significant landmarks. Along the way, you’ll find Georgia’s Old Governor’s Mansion, a breathtaking example of Greek Revival architecture. For a deeper look inside, guided tours are offered Tuesday through Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Picnic by the Pond

Switch up your dining routine with takeout from a local restaurant and a picnic at Lockerly Arboretum. This 50-acre retreat features a serene open meadow by the pond and picnic tables perfect for dining al fresco. After your meal, stretch your legs with a stroll along the paved one-mile trail, where seasonal blooms—including an extensive camellia garden—add a touch of natural beauty to your walk.

Try Locally Sourced Goods

Discover local flavor at Comfort Farms Farmers Market, held on select Saturdays, where visitors can shop for locally sourced meat, and vegetables, and enjoy farm-fresh meals prepared onsite. Explore Milly Farmer's Market, a bustling farmers market in downtown Milledgeville, open on the 1st and 3rd Friday of each month, featuring booths showcasing items from local artisans, farmers, and makers. For a keepsake that captures the spirit of Milledgeville, visit The Mercantile inside the Milledgeville Visitor’s Center. Featuring a thoughtfully curated selection of locally sourced goods, it’s the perfect place to find a souvenir or gift to remember your trip.

Cast Your Rod

Satisfy your fisher’s soul by reeling in a big one at Rocky Creek Park. Rocky Creek Park is located on Lake Sinclair and has so much to offer.  A boat ramp, picnic area, a walking trail, and banks to fish from are available to the public from the second entrance - all you need to catch a big one! From the main entrance, the entire park offers a shaded pavilion, vending machines, restrooms, grills, a swimming beach, and a playground, as well as a fishing pier. If you’re fishing for largemouth bass, channel catfish, black crappie, bluegill, redbreast sunfish, and so much more then Rocky Creek Park is exactly the place where you want to be. Rocky Creek Park is open daily to the public from Memorial Day to Labor Day from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. There is a $5 parking fee.

Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth

Indulge in a sweet escape at Avanti's Sweet Treats and More in Milledgeville, GA, where local baker Shamada Hightower, also known as "Avanti," crafts delightful cheesecakes, cookies, and brownies with a unique twist. From funky cheesecakes to big soft cookies in innovative flavors like banana pudding and strawberry crunch and pineapple-upside down cake, there's something to satisfy every sweet craving. Don't miss out on their best-selling strawberry crunch cheesecake or the tantalizing crunchy candied fruit, alongside lunch options like chicken salad plates and fresh salads, making Avanti's a must-stop spot for a delicious summer treat during your vacation to Milledgeville.  

Shop for Local Goodies

Browse downtown Milledgeville’s section of shops and discover clothing, unique decor, and one-of-a-kind antiques. Firefly Boutique, French Vill’Edge, Goldie & Co., and Southern Roots offer trendy clothing from name brands. Those in search of a handcrafted memento or unique home decor piece will find it at Eclectic. Discover novelties at Auntie Bellum Antiques, an expansive store filled with a wide array of vintage collectibles, jewelry, and furniture.

Explore the Georgia College Campus

Founded in 1889, Georgia College and State University’s 43-acre campus offers a captivating blend of beautiful architecture and scenic landscapes. Stroll through the campus to discover its historic buildings, lush greenery, and charming walkways. Whether you’re admiring the timeless architecture or enjoying a peaceful moment on the front campus lawn with a picnic, the serene environment makes it a perfect spot to unwind.

Sip Margaritas at Bollywood Tacos

Dive into culinary fusion at Bollywood Tacos in downtown Milledgeville. This colorful local hangout has created an innovative exploration of Mexican and Indian cuisine. Experience the unique blend of flavors in creations like the Bombay Taco, made with marinated grilled chicken in Indian spices, sauteed onions and peppers, topped with a cilantro and mango sauce. Their margaritas, available in both classic lime and custom flavors like pomegranate or mango, are the perfect refreshing summer cocktail. 

Rest Your Head

Remember the joy of long, lazy summer days as a kid? Make this summer just as memorable by taking the time to wind down with family and close friends with a leisurely retreat. Choose from our selection of hotels, spacious campgrounds, and rv parks or one of our spacious vacation rentals to make lasting memories. Whether you enjoy lakeside sunsets, charming historic homes, or scenic country views, Milledgeville has the perfect accommodations, all suited to your travel style and situated to help you explore. Get ready to take in a new view!

From lake adventures to downtown strolls, Milledgeville delivers a mix of relaxation and recreation throughout the summer months. Whether it's a first visit or a familiar return, checking off this bucket list is a great way to enjoy everything the season has to offer in this charming destination.