Winter Bucket List

Milledgeville, Georgia, located between Atlanta and Savannah, offers a unique winter experience with a variety of activities perfect for embracing the cool weather. Whether you're strolling through its historic district, exploring cultural landmarks like Georgia's Old Governor's Mansion, or cozying up with a warm drink at local coffee shops, the town promises a memorable winter adventure. This winter bucket list is your guide to enjoying the season's crisp air while discovering the rich history and charm of Milledgeville.

Bundle Up & Take a Walk 

Stroll through Milledgeville’s Historic District and discover the stories that shaped this charming town. Take a self-guided Historic Walking Tour and marvel at the stunning architecture of over 40 Antebellum homes and landmarks while immersing yourself in their rich history. Pick up a brochure at the Visitor's Center, located at 200 West Hancock Street, to guide your journey. If you’re looking to stay active, this scenic loop through Milledgeville will add about 5,000 steps to your day while treating you to unforgettable sights. 

Grab a Cup of Warm Coffee or Cocoa

After a long stroll through nature, warm up with a delicious cup of fresh, roasted coffee or cocoa. Pop in Morning Grind, Milledgeville's cozy corner coffee shop, for an espresso and homemade baked goods. In downtown, Blackbird Coffee offers baked goods, in-house roasted coffee, and other tasty treats. They serve rich apple cider and mint hot chocolate for those looking for something sweet. Enjoy your beverage with a scone or a pastry from either shop while cozied up on one of their couches. 

Visit a Museum 

Winter in Milledgeville is typically mild enough to continue outdoor activities, but when you must get inside, stop by one of Georgia College’s museums. Visit the Paleozoic, Mesozoic, and Cenozoic Eras and see fossils from Georgia and all around the world!  Located in Georgia College’s Herty Hall, the Natural History Museum collection includes fossils from Georgia as well as other U.S. and international localities. Take a free self-guided tour through the museum on Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The Leland Gallery is inside historic Ennis Hall and the Georgia College Museum of Fine Arts is in the Underwood Home. Both properties are open to the public Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Georgia College Department of Art not only showcases students' works in their galleries but also works of renowned artists from around the country. This Winter, The Mouments Project will be exhibited in the Leland Gallery.

Stroll the Gardens

Take a walk around Lockerly Arboretum and enjoy the peaceful nature trails, vibrant gardens, and tranquil pond overlooking a gorgeous antebellum mansion. Founded in 1965, the Arboretum includes approximately 50 acres that feature shrubs, trees, herb beds, rhododendrons, a conifer collection, and bulb and perennial beds. During the winter months, Lockerly’s camellia section, home to the esteemed First Ladies of Georgia Collection, flourishes in the cold air.

Embark on a Flavor Adventure 

Getting hungry? Milledgeville has an incredible selection of dining options. Although Milledgeville is in the heart of Georgia, our international dining options have become a favorite among visitors and residents. Whether you are craving Greek, Indian, Italian, Mexican, or Asian cuisine, Milledgeville has you covered. A must-try this winter season is Metropolis, a warm restaurant that serves authentic Greek cuisine with some Indian influence. Their fresh Tzatziki dip and grilled pita bread are the perfect start to a meal. For the main event, they have kabobs of all varieties, Spanakopita, Gyros, salads, and more. Visit on Thursdays for Indian offerings like Chicken Tikka Masala and curry. 

Shop for Winter Essentials

Need something warm and cozy? Downtown Milledgeville has a variety of boutiques with winter pieces that are sure to keep you toasty. Firefly offers casual and high-end clothing items, perfect for gifting or treating yourself. They have a variety of shoes, accessories, and clothing to choose from. The French Vill’Edge is another great find for women's accessories and clothing. Their daily arrivals of the latest styles will keep you on trend without breaking the bank. Southern Roots is well-equipped for the winter months with name-brand apparel for men, including jackets, pants, accessories, and shoes. 

Explore Milledgeville History

Completed in 1839, Georgia's Old Governor's Mansion encompasses the antebellum, Civil War, and early Reconstruction phases of the state's history. Many state leaders including George Crawford and Howell Cobb resided in the building and used it as a stage for speeches and debates on the complex social issues of the antebellum period including discussions on slavery and gender roles. Keep warm and tour this beautiful historic home located at 120 South Clarke Street. The Mansion is open for public tours Tuesday through Saturday, 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and Sunday, 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. with tours every hour. Admission rates: $10 for adults, $7 for pre-booked adult groups, $7 for Senior Citizens (60 years and older), $2 for students, and free to children under 6 and all GC faculty, staff, and students!

Savor Hearty Soups

As the weather gets colder, warm up with a cup of delicious soup. Milledgeville has plenty of incredible restaurants that serve a variety of soups. Whether you are sipping on award-winning tomato soup from The Brick, cheesy potato soup from Pickle Barrel, or popular Vietnamese soup from Pho Little Saigon, you won’t be disappointed.

Enjoy a Good Book

While learning the fascinating history of Milledgeville, read literature from two influential writers that impacted our charming small town. Flannery O’Connor was a famous Southern gothic writer, who completed the bulk of her literary work on her family's farm. Tour Andalusia Farm and learn the fascinating history of Flannery and how the farm’s environment influenced the setting of many of her writings. In addition to the original farm buildings, the modern Interpretive Center showcases artifacts and information about the full history of the property. There is also a gift shop where you can pick up an O'Connor work or other affiliated texts. 

Flannery O’Connor influenced many writers including Alice Walker. Walker is an American writer and activist born in Eatonton, Georgia (just a few miles up the road). Although Alice Walker isn’t from Milledgeville, her influence has always reached across county lines. Tour Heritage Hall at Georgia College and view their special collection which holds works from O’Connor and Walker.

Stay Out Late 

Head to downtown Milledgeville for a memorable night out with friends. The downtown restaurants have plenty of fun activities to do including karaoke and trivia. Enjoy testing your knowledge alongside draft beer and fun prizes at Amici on Mondays at 7:00 p.m., Metropolis on Mondays at 7:30 p.m., The Brick on Tuesdays at 9:30 p.m., and Buffington’s on Wednesdays at 8:15 p.m. Buffington’s also hosts karaoke every Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday starting at 10:00 p.m.

Want something more laid back? Enjoy a relaxing wine night with the girls at The Reel Grill. Biba’s Italian Restaurant also has a wide selection of wine to pair with a delicious appetizer like their calamari or garlic rolls. 

Sip Frosty Drinks

Whether you're craving a well-crafted cocktail or a refreshing craft beer, Milledgeville has you covered. Start downtown with fan-favorite drinks at Bollywood Tacos, The Brick, Metropolis, or Buffington’s, where you can also enjoy an impressive selection of craft beers, including brews from local breweries. At The Brick, each month brings creative twists on classic cocktails, like January’s Peppermint Mocha Martini or Pomegranate Paloma, sure to add a festive spark to your winter season. If you’re closer to Lake Sinclair, Taylor’s Cove, Aubri Lane’s at The Club, or Biba’s Italian Restaurant offers the perfect spots to unwind with your favorite drink.

Rest Your Head

After a day of exploring, dining, and making memories, unwind in one of Milledgeville’s spacious vacation rentals, offering lakeside views, historic charm, or peaceful country escapes. For those seeking modern conveniences, the city’s hotels provide comfort and excellent service. Prefer the outdoors? Scenic campgrounds and RV parks offer a tranquil retreat under the stars, perfectly situated for your next adventure. No matter your travel style, Milledgeville has the perfect spot to relax and recharge, all ideally located to help you continue your adventures.