Things To Do Near Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park
The Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park offers guided tours and events to introduce visitors to Native American craftsmanship, history, and cultural activities like dancing and storytelling. The Ocmulgee mounds are accessible during low water levels with a ranger lead tour. You can view preserved continuous records of human life in the Southwest from the earliest times to the present. Explore historical sites, hike the six-mile trails, or visit the museum housing more than 2,000 artifacts spanning the history of the Macon Plateau dating back to 10,000 B.C.E.
Hiking Trails
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Ocmulgee National Monument Loop
This loop is the longest trail in Ocmulgee Mounds National Historic Park. The Ocmulgee National Monument Loop features a lake along the trail and mounds and extends toward the river, offering tranquil views. The path is primarily used for walking, hiking, and wildlife viewing.
Location
1207 Emery Highway, Macon, GA 31217
Length
5.5 miles
Intensity
Easy
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Bartram and River Loop Trail
The trail follows a mix of paved, gravel, and natural surfaces. It has an elevation gain of 157 feet. You’ll travel by a lake, through the forest, and climb up 80 stairs to view the historical mounds. The trail is primarily used for nature trips, hiking, bird-watching, and walking. On the southern part of the trail, there is wheelchair and stroller accessibility. You may encounter chipmunks, deer, squirrels, and other small game animals when walking this trail. On the river part of the trail, you may even see alligators.
Location
1207 Emery Highway, Macon, GA 31217
Length
3.6 miles
Intensity
Easy
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Heritage Trail
This trail goes along the Ocmulgee River and begins behind the visitor center. You can walk, hike, or ride your bike on the trail while viewing wildlife such as woodpeckers, lizards, deer, and other small game animals.
Location
Visitor Center, 1207 Emery Highway, Macon, GA 31217
Length
1.75 miles
Intensity
Easy
Sightseeing
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Amerson River Park
Enjoy the beautiful pristine forest, meadows, and wetlands surrounded by a river oxbow in this 180-acre park. It’s the ideal place for many outdoor activities, including taking a stroll, running, or biking on the seven-mile trail and going kayaking, canoeing, or floating in a tube down the Ocmulgee River.
Location
2551 Pierce Drive North, Macon, GA 31204
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Sandy Beach Water Park
With everything from a swimming pool to a splash race waterslide, this water parkoffers loads of fun. There is also a high seas wave pool, sandy beach lazy river, and a splash pad slide tower for children under 48 inches. A snack shack is available with snacks and ice-cold drinks. Private and group swimming lessons are available here.
Location
6880 Moseley Dixon Road, Macon, GA 31220
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Historic Fort Hawkins
At this site, you can visit an official United States Army fort and Native American factory that was used for trading and meeting with Native Americans. Fort Hawkins was established by Native American Agent Colonial Benjamin Hawkins and President Thomas Jefferson in 1806.
Location
736 Emery Highway, Macon, GA 31217
Museums
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Johnston-Felton-Hay House
This historical landmark was built from 1855 to 1859 in an Italian revival style. Johnston-Felton-Hay House is an 18,000-square foot mansion that spans four levels and is topped with a two-story octagonal cupola. Educational programs are offered to enrich young minds in understanding links between the past, present, and future. Tours are also available here.
Location
934 Georgia Avenue, Macon, GA 31201
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Tubman Museum
The Tubman Museum is a center that promotes cultural understanding and inspires positive change. There are two floors of exhibits showcasing the art, history, and culture of African Americans. You can take an interactive tour at the museum, watch a mini educational video, and visit the museum store. Workshops are also offered here.
Location
310 Cherry Street, Macon, GA 31201
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Museum of Aviation
This museum opened in 1984 with 20 aircraft on display in an open field. At the time, there were 20 more planes in the process of being restored. Today, it’s the second-largest museum in the United States Air Force. The facility sits on 51 acres next to Robins Air Force Base and includes four large exhibit buildings with missiles, cockpits, and 85 historic United States Air Force aircraft.
Location
1942 Heritage Boulevard, Robins A.F.B., GA 31098
Nearby Shops and Restaurants
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Bossa Novas
Bossa Novas is a family-managed café and marketplace where delicious foods from all around the world are served. This restaurant is designed for delivery, takeout, and dining in.
Location
490 Cherry Street, Macon, GA 31201
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Ricky’s Taco Shop
Known for its phenomenal tacos and quesadillas, Ricky’s Taco Shop is Macon’s best spot for a great dining experience and authentic Mexican food.
Location
518 Cherry Street, Macon, GA 31201
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Village Shop Antiques & Gifts
Take the afternoon to explore this unique shop as it is filled with an enormous amount of treasures. You’ll find various household antiques, vintage décor, furniture, and so much more.
Location
2390 Ingleside Avenue, Macon, GA 31204
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Creter’s
Shop for that special gift or get a little something for yourself at Creter’s. You’ll find women’s pajamas and jigsaw puzzles with scenes ranging from the Georgia coast to the United States national parks.
Location
2374 Ingleside Avenue, Macon, GA 31204
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Deja Vous Consignment & Boutique
If you enjoy browsing for second-hand gems, stop by the Deja Vous Consignment & Boutique to look through left-behind treasures. At this upscale women’s consignment shop, you’ll find women’s apparel, shoes, handbags, and accessories.
Location
2786 Riverside Drive, Macon, GA 31204