For travelers heading south through Georgia, Albany is a detour option for somewhere to spend the night or a few hours. The city and its surrounding small towns are home to significant landmarks in Georgia history and charming locales.
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Albany
Albany is one of the largest towns in Southwest Georgia. Settled by Creek Indians, the Flint River runs through the area. Musician Ray Charles grew up nearby and the arts and musical traditions have carried over to today. The town is also home to the Albany Marathon and Half Marathon, one of the top Boston Marathon qualifiers in the country.
What to Do in Albany
Chehaw Park is an all-in-one attraction with a zoo, frisbee golf course, mountain biking trails, and even campsites. Learn about Albany’s role in the Civil Rights Movement at Albany Civil Rights Institute. Sample wine and moonshine at Still Pond Vineyard & Winery.
Flint RiverQuarium is a unique aquarium experience as it focuses on the ecosystems of the Flint River, which runs alongside the attraction. Riverfront Park is set on the Flint River and is home to the Ray Charles statue.
Where to Eat in Albany
Foodies will enjoy a trip to Albany, which excels at Southern food. Pearly’s Famous Country Cooking is a local favorite, serving breakfast all day. Carter’s Grill & Restaurant is a soul food establishment with fresh options daily, located near the Albany Civil Rights Institute.
Grab a morning burst of caffeine at Elements Coffee Co, serving fresh java and sandwiches. The Cookie Shop has breakfast, lunch, and the best cookies around. Owned by the Stewbos group, Harvest Moon, The Catch, and Henry Campbell’s are all delicious.
Bianca’s Restaurant also comes recommended by locals with Italian dishes and daily specials. AJ’s Seafood & Oyster Bar is a casual restaurant for fried shrimp and cheap beer.
Where to Stay in Albany
You’ll find all the chain hotels in Albany, but Merry Acres Inn (review here) is the only independently run accommodation in town. Fairfield Inn & Suites is well located at affordable prices. Another unique option is Wynfield Plantation, a hunting lodge with guest cabins.
Americus
Despite its relatively small size, Americus is home to Georgia Southwestern University and the headquarters of Habitat for Humanity. Much of downtown is listed on the historic register for its preservation.
What to Do in Americus
Thirteenth Colony Distillery creates hand-crafted small-batch liquors like whiskey, gin, and vodka and offers facility tours and tastings. Rylander Theatre is a historic theater that puts on local productions.
Where to Eat in Americus
Most Americus dining options are open early in the day, so plan accordingly. Cafe Campesino roasts their own coffee and offers beverages and sandwiches at its downtown location. Little Brother’s Bistro & Cafe sells soups, sandwiches, and flatbreads.
Roman Oven Pizzeria has large pizzas and a salad bar. Granny’s Kitchen serves Southern comfort food and Pat’s Place is a sports bar.
Where to Stay in Americus
The historic Best Western Plus Windsor Hotel (review here) is the crown jewel of Americus with its red brick exterior and an in-house restaurant. Americus Garden Inn Bed and Breakfast is a beautiful old home turned inn with stunning gardens. Americus KOA is the best place to camp in the area.
Plains
The small town of Plains rose to national notoriety when Jimmy Carter, a peanut farmer, became the president of the United States. Many of the attractions are related to him, including the national historic site’s three distinct experiences. Explore downtown’s antique shops including the political memorabilia shop.
What to Do in Plains
Jimmy Carter presidential landmarks are made up of three different sites. Jimmy Carter National Historic Site at the former Plains High School has exhibits on Carter’s early life as well as mementos from his campaigns.
Jimmy Carter Boyhood Farm has been recreated to resemble where he grew up and The Plains Depot focuses on the town’s role in his run for president. SAM Shortline Train at Georgia Veterans State Park runs through Plains in vintage passenger cars.
Where to Eat in Plains
Since Plains is a small town, dining options are again limited. Buffalo Grill at the Old Bank serves sandwiches and Southern favorites.
Where to Stay in Plains
Plains Historic Inn & Antique Mall was developed by the Carters and has historic furnishings, free Internet, and breakfast daily.
Andersonville
The town of Andersonville is mostly made up of a former Civil War prisoner of war camp. In addition to the historic site, the area is home to several historic structures like the grist mill, pioneer farm, cabin, and churches. In the 1970s, the mayor decided to return Andersonville to how it would have looked during the time of the war.
What to Do in Andersonville
The town of Andersonville is known for its connection to the Civil War. Andersonville National Cemetery honors the fallen soldiers and Andersonville National Historic Site has a prisoner of war museum and artifacts from its time as a prison camp. Drummer Boy Civil War Museum is in the recreated Andersonville village.
Where to Eat in Andersonville
There are very few dining options around Andersonville, and the few places have limited hours, so bring a picnic. Easterlin’s Country Store is the only restaurant in town.
Where to Stay in Andersonville
Because of its remote location, you may be better off going to Andersonville for the day rather than staying overnight. But if you want to stick around, Andersonville RV Park offers electric hookups. A few places also rent out cottages and homes.
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