Feel the
A destination is only as good as the way it makes you feel. Albany is no different.
The hub of Southwestern Georgia, Albany beholds some of the State’s greatest natural wonders. The Flint River flows through our backyard, waiting to be explored. Picturesque walking and biking trails wind around town, and the crystal blue waters of Radium Springs Gardens (once truly considered a natural wonder) glisten in the sun.
Or perhaps Albany is best known for the momentous history made in these very streets. Streets where rhythm and blues master Ray Charles was born, where the railroad system once transported people to Savannah and where Ms. Rutha Mae Harris and her Freedom Singers still perform their inspiring anthems from the Albany Movement
How will you?
Tour the sites of The Albany Movement, a breakthrough resulting in the first mass movement to end segregation.
Enjoy the soulful Rhythms of Ray Charles from a piano key bench in Ray Charles Plaza.
Discover why Albany is southwest Georgia’s Commercial Hub in shopping districts like the ever-growing Downtown Albany.
Catch a train rolling through town or see the old depot and boarding platform at Thronateeska, both everpresent reminders of our Railroad Origins.
Move your body and enjoy the fresh air along the Flint River Trails, admired among bikers and hikers.
Take a full-day float down the 14-mile stretch of The Flint River from the Georgia Power Dam to Punks Landing.
Stroll through a whimsical courtyard, cool off in the Flint’s free-flowing waters, tuck away in a cozy cabin or get up close and personal with hundreds of native land and water species when you step outside and into Albany’s expansive outdoors.
Radium Springs Gardens
Dubbed one of the Seven Natural Wonders of Georgia, the natural gardens and crystal blue waters of Radium Springs draw people across state borders to admire its beauty. The spring is a footprint of the lavish resort and swimming hole the grounds once held. Though the mystical waters (no longer open for swimming) are the main attraction, don’t miss the botanical gardens, a fully stocked fishing pond, lookout points, history markers, a water tower mural and four miles of paved trails.
Chehaw
With miles of trails, camping grounds and a zoo, Chehaw is Albany’s epicenter of wildlife discovery.
The Zoo: Scenic boardwalks and cypress swamps will lead you to habitats of over 73 different species of animals from Albany and far beyond. Stop by and say hi to everything from Cheetahs to Rhinos to Black Bears to Alligators and more!
The Campground: Settle in for the night in a cabin, tent or RV, or just spend a day hiking and biking the trails.
The Splash Pad: Got little ones? Don’t leave without a stop by the splash pad and park, where they can run and play while you rest.
Albany’s underwater ecosystem is on full display in this open-air aquarium and discovery center. Explore interactive exhibits of over 100 native aquatic species; marvel at the recreated, 90-foot diameter Blue Hole Spring exhibit; or get up close with local and migratory wetland birds at the Cypress Creek aviary.
With seven different ways to play, this play park is a haven for kids ages one to 14. It includes endless elements to entertain for hours, like a giant turtle, mosaic tiles, musical instruments, static climbing features and more!
With 220 miles of flow, the Flint River is one of the longest unimpeded rivers in the Southeast, making it perfect for watersports and sightseeing. The river has always been the heart of Albany, uniting shoppers and loungers in Downtown Albany's Riverfront Park to kayakers, fishermen and bicyclists in awe of its peaceful waters.
Downtown Albany’s Riverfront Park connects to the Riverfront Greenway, which contains two canoe/kayak launches, and offers stunning riverscape views, making it a perfect starting point for Flint River adventures.
Riverfront Greenway - Follow The Flint for 2.4 miles of remarkable views, wildlife sightings and photo ops.
A paddle down the Flint is worthwhile for thrill seekers and picture-takers alike. Launch at the Georgia Power Dam and float leisurely past some of the best river views.
Guided Tours - If you feel more comfortable with a river guide! Consult one of these paddling experts to accompany your expedition:
Kayak Attack: kayakalbanygeorgia.com (229)669-1259
Flint River Outpost: facebook.com/ flintriveroutpost (229)376-5643
Anglers will love fishing the Flint’s Shoalfilled waters and reeling in bass, sunfish, catfish, bullheads and more. If you prefer casting off…
• On a boat: The Cromartie Boat Ramp is a prime launching point.
• Beside a creek: Try Kinchafoonee, which feeds the Flint River.
• On the lake: Lake Chehaw boasts a boat ramp and two fishing piers.
Chehaw Trail 3.5 miles | Easy
A flat, loop trail through the forests of Chehaw.
Albany Riverfront Trail 2.4 miles | Easy
A flat, paved trail following the Flint River from Riverfront Park to Cox Landing.
Pirates Cove 1 mile | Easy
A short, paved loop trail featuring bridges and wildlife.
Radium Springs Trails 4 miles | Easy
A unique hiking experience around one of Georgia’s natural wonders, complete with eye-popping views of the crystal blue natural spring.
Georgia Power Dam to Punk Landing
14 miles | Moderate
Launch at the Georgia Power Dam, enjoy scenic views through downtown, blue hole springs, and level 1 rapids.
Over the years, Albany has been many things: a trading hub, a rail center and the birthplace of a civil rights movement. Today, it’s a bustling hometown, holding tightly to the remnants of the past while laying the stones of a brighter future.
The Creek Indians resided along the riverbank of the now Flint River, calling their home “Thronateeska,” meaning “The place where flint is picked up.”
This museum is a prized jewel when it comes to the preservation of Southern Civil Rights movements. Housed in the restored 1906 Old Mount Zion Church, this exhibition shares the trials and triumphs of the Civil Rights Movement as they happened in Albany. Visitors can relive stories from the movement through first-hand accounts, photographs, documents and artifacts.
Mount Zion Baptist Church: The church that houses the institute is the most important artifact of the collection. It’s where crowds once gathered to listen to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr’s moving words.
Albany is founded by businessman Nelson Tift, who hoped the area would become a prosperous trading center like that of Albany, New York.
1912
Union Station is built to serve passenger trains of the Albany and Northern Atlantic Coast Line, Central Georgia, Georgia Northern and Seaboard Air Line railroads.
Want to get the most out of your Albany visit? Make the Welcome Center at The Bridge House your first stop. We’ll welcome you to town and help plan your visit, all in the restored, historic site that’s held many titles since its inception in 1857.
Birthplace of the 1961 Albany Civil Rights Movement, Shiloh Baptist Church has earned a spot on the Georgia Historical Society Civil Rights Trail. Led by Civil Rights leader Rev. H.C. Boyd up until 2016, the church still holds service every Sunday from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m.
This site of Albany’s heritage dates back to its days as a rail community. The 1913 Union Station Depot, a legendary landmark, has been restored to house the History Museum today. Starting at Heritage Plaza, embark on a journey of the mind as you see stars at the Wetherbee Planetarium, make discoveries at the Science Museum and see one of the city’s original rail cars at the History Museum.
The Albany Movement, the first mass movement in the Civil Rights era to have desegregation as its goal, begins.
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. arrives in Albany and speaks at Shiloh Baptist Church.
The Albany Movement ends, jailing more than 1,000 African Americans in rural Southern communities.
The Freedom Singers formed a quartet in the home of Slater King, revitalizing the movement through song. Flip the page to learn more!
The Albany Movement was the first mass movement in the Civil Rights era to have total desegregation as its goal. For less than a year, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. marched alongside hundreds of black and white protesters, calling for justice. After Dr. King's departure, Charles Sherrod, other SNCC Field Secretaries, and local leaders continued. In the spring of 1963, Albany officially took segregation out of its statues, desegregating the city.
Just like MLK’s fight continued in Birmingham, so did the fight for freedom in Albany. The Freedom Singers, a quartet of activists from Albany SNCC, rose from the ashes of The Albany Movement. The group toured across the U.S. performing in YMCAs, schools, Carnegie Hall and the March on Washington. Songs like “We Shall Overcome” and “Ain’t Gonna Let Nobody Turn Me ‘Round” became anthems of the Civil Rights Movement.
Today, Ms. Rutha Mae Harris, a member of the original group, still resides in Albany, performing the movement’s soul-stirring ballads alongside a new generation of African-American women.
The Freedom Singers have performed at sites all over Albany throughout the years. These are some of the most notable:
Mount Zion Baptist Church
Bridge House
Albany State University
Shiloh Baptist Church
Albany Municipal Auditorium
Albany Civic Center
Resora exists to preserve thousands of acres of untouched beauty and the region's complex history. Wander this magnificent site of heritage, agriculture and environmental preservation. Relax in an elegantly furnished lodge, a guest house or a studio bunkhouse nestled on the peaceful banks of Resora’s 85-acre lake.
The captivating life-sized sculpture in the center of downtown’s Ray Charles Plaza is impossible to miss. If the twirling piano surrounded by painted piano key benches isn’t enough to draw your attention, the harmonious melodies that seem to drift right out of the piano surely will. This astonishing public artwork pays homage to the beloved pioneer of soul music, singer, songwriter and pianist Ray Charles, who was born in Albany. If you can’t get enough of Albany’s music scene, take a seat on a piano key and enjoy the show!
Book a tour of the Antebellum Mansion or make Resora your home base while in Albany by booking a cabin at theresoraexperience.com
Albany commemorates our historic streets while transforming downtown into the hub of commerce and community it was always meant to be. The tight-knit group of local shop and restaurant owners currently operating downtown and many to come are the heart and soul of downtown Albany’s warm and welcoming atmosphere. Be sure to pay them a visit while you’re in town.
The Flint delivers exquisite seafood and steaks in an upscale casual atmosphere. Found in the heart of Albany’s Riverfront district, it’s the perfect place to kick back after a day of play.
The Franklins’ vision of a vibrant downtown gathering space led them to create just that. They’ve been fueling Albany’s caffeine craze for two years through latte art, espresso shots and freshly baked goodies.
Yes, you should plan to grab a cookie from The Cookie Shoppe. You should also try their delectable cheese biscuits, deli sandwiches or homemade soups while you’re at it. An Albany staple for 27 years, this joint is a one-stop-shop for breakfast, lunch or, as the locals put it, “cookies like grandma used to make.”
Look your best and feel your best with handpicked styles that are always changing. Shop everything from top trends to glistening jewels to custom gifts.
Albany is home to Georgia’s premier provider of gourmet nuts, dried fruits and candies.
Get it: Sunnyland Farms
Popcorn connoisseurs will love the sweet, savory and unlikely flavor combos made right in downtown Albany.
Get it: Kingscorn Gourmet Popcorn & Sweets
The Christmas peppermint phenomenon started right here in Albany with Bobs Candies.
Get it: Grocery Stores Everywhere
Albany is home to Mars Wrigley’s only manufacturing facility of “the ultimate-stuffed snack.”
Get it: Grocery Stores Everywhere
Whether it’s a new wardrobe, vintage treasures or artisan-made gifts you’re after, there’s something for everyone to take home as a reminder of your time in Albany.
Blush Browse colorful racks stocked with the latest fashion trends and chic accessories at this trendy yet timeless boutique.
If shopping sprees are more of a treasure hunt for you, you’ll have a blast digging through unique, vintage gems, including furniture, decor and apparel, at this antique market.
Tommy Mc's
This country store has a fresh batch of local produce every day. Stop by for the best Albanygrown foods and other locally made treats like cakes, cheeses and coffees. for
The Showroom
Treat yourself to a VIP shopping experience at this high-end fashion retailer. Browse their vast selection of apparel, including specialty pieces and handmade garments
Ibiza Boutique
"Nice clothes for bad babes." This locally owned boutique boasts a boldly curated clothing collection along with statementmaking jewelry and gifts.
Once you’ve paid the bill, drained your glass and cleared your plate, the night is still young. There are dancefloors to hit, axes to throw and trivia games to win long into the night. These spots offer the best nightlife in town.
Work on your throw, perfect your aim and nail the target. With 18 lanes for throwing, HDTVs, a sports bar and a friendly staff, you might just leave with a newfound hobby!
Bingo, trivia, karaoke, live music and cornhole—something is happening almost every night of the week. Grab a pint fresh from the tap and let the good times roll.
If you’re looking for an upscale dinner party vibe, the Manor House Pub at Merry Acres Inn is the place to be. The inn’s lush double veranda is the stuff of Southern dreams. Grab a table on the porch to catch a live performance on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays
This nightclub is the life of the party during weekends in Albany, hosting happy hours, wing nights, game nights, line dancing and more.
Pearly's
The Grille House
Serving mouthwatering soul foods like burgers and BBQ.
The oldest family-owned and operated restaurant in Albany known for “famous country cookin’.”
Zalia’s Place
Indulge in hearty, homemade dishes like fish, chicken, ribs and hot wings.
Bianca's
A family-owned Italian restaurant that prides themselves on authenticity.
Harvest Moon
Local Italian joint known for pizzas, calzones, an assortment of over 50 craft and imported beers and a friendly atmosphere with live music ThursdaySaturday nights.
Austin's Firegrill & Oyster Bar
Juicy steaks, fresh-caught oysters and savory pasta infused with southern flair.
Decanter
The Catch
Crafting artful dishes like lobster egg rolls, marmalade red snapper and baja alligator tacos.
Cuisine ranging from internationally-inspired desserts to perfectly seared steaks to ambrosial appetizers.
BEER:
Pretoria Fields
Albany’s only local brewery and taproom. Hoppy IPAs, creamy stouts, light lagers and malty ales inspired by Albany’s relaxed nature.
WINE:
Corks, Wine & Charcuterie
A contemporary wine bar serving fine wines expertly paired with a customizable selection of gourmet meats, cheeses and accouterments.
COCKTAILS:
The Flint Swanky sips including handcrafted classics like Manhattans and Martinis, and contemporary cocktails like Flint Paradise and Vanilla Sky.
Don’t be afraid to color outside the lines, get your hands a little dirty or belt out a tune as you get to know Albany’s artsy side. Take home a new vase handpainted by you, observe the works of old and new South Georgia artists or deliver a standing ovation for an outstanding musical performance at these creative locales and more.
The Albany Museum of Art is dedicated to bringing “the art of the South to the world and the art of the world to the South.” The museum is perfect for those with big imaginations and cultural fascinations, with exhibits featuring both European and American artwork spanning centuries and the largest collection of sub-Saharan African art in the Southeast outside of a university setting.
Feeling inspired after taking in the masterpieces of AMA?
Create your own work of art at The Clay Spot! Choose from an array of handmade clay pieces like mini figurines, dishes, vases and more to compose a custom keepsake that lasts forever.
*Keep an eye on the calendar for specialty events and classes like canvas painting!
Just like MLK’s fight continued in Birmingham, so did the fight for freedom in Albany. The Freedom Singers, a quartet of activists from Albany State College, rose from the ashes of The Albany Movement. The group toured, performing in schools and at house parties across the northern US. Songs like “We Shall Overcome” and “Ain’t Gonna Let Nobody Turn Me ‘Round” became anthems of the Civil Rights Movement.
The Flint River Entertainment Complex is the largest municipal destination south of Atlanta, comprising three lively venues. As the largest venue south of Atlanta, the Civic Center hosts some of the region's biggest shows and sporting events. The Albany Municipal Auditorium, home to the Albany Symphony Orchestra, provides a prime listening and viewing experience for intimate affairs, while Veterans Amphitheater hosts city-wide events and outdoor concerts all summer long.
Today, Ms. Rutha Mae Harris, a member of the original group, still resides in Albany, performing the movement’s soul-stirring ballads alongside a new generation of African-American women.
Formerly known as The State Theater, this stage holds the history of local singers Luke Bryan, Dallas Davidson and Field Mob.
Or, head to any of these restaurants and pubs for live performances throughout every weekend.
Harvest Moon
The Vault
Pretoria Fields
The Flint Corks Wine & Charcuterie
Talk about movement! Every year hundreds of runners from across the country cross the Combos Marathon and Half Marathon finish line and become Boston qualifiers! Do you have what it takes to join the 20% of finishers that qualify? Runners of all skill levels are welcome to tackle the challenge and join us in downtown Albany every March for a weekend of festivities followed by heart-pumping cardio. Cash prizes are awarded to first, second and third-place male and female finishers.
The Freedom Singers
This minor league baseball stadium, which is home to the SIAC Baseball Championship, is also used for high school regular season and tournament games.
Just like MLK’s fight continued in Birmingham, so did the fight for freedom in Albany. The Freedom Singers, a quartet of activists from Albany State College, rose from the ashes of The Albany Movement. The group toured, performing in schools and at house parties across the northern US. Songs like “We Shall Overcome” and “Ain’t Gonna Let Nobody Turn Me ‘Round” became anthems of the Civil Rights Movement.
Car shows, shootouts and races happen almost every weekend at the US 19 Dragway, the oldest dragway in Georgia.
Today, Ms. Rutha Mae Harris, a member of the original group, still resides in Albany, performing the movement’s soul-stirring ballads alongside a new generation of African-American women. Whether it’s a quick game of backyard baseball with out-of-the-park facilities or a friendly golf tournament accompanied by above-par views, we’ve got a green for any game.
Golfers will be pleased to find a variety of golf courses brimming with modern luxury amenities and lush green fairways nearby.
Combos Marathon and Half Marathon
MARCH
Albany Downtown Street Festival
MARCH
Southwest Georgia Arts, Crafts and Car Show
APRIL
Practice Your Putt at:
• Flint River Municipal Golf Course
• Georgia Veterans Memorial Golf Course, Cordele
• River Pointe Golf Course
• Stonebridge Golf & Country Club
Water, Wings & Wildlife Festival
SEPTEMBER
Albany State University Homecoming
OCTOBER
AMA Chalkfest
NOVEMBER
First Fridays on The Flint MAY-NOVEMBER
Independence Day Celebration
JULY
Habitat for Humanity Hammer Jam
AUGUST
Pecan City Pedlars Nut Roll
SEPTEMBER
Flint River Keeper's Knobby Knees Music Festival
SEPTEMBER
Santa Goes Global
DECEMBER
Chehaw Wild Lights
DECEMBER
Albany Christmas Parade
DECEMBER
Jingle Bell Jog
DECEMBER
SWGA Quail Invitational
JANUARY
for a full calendar of events!
In Southwest Georgia, Albany is everybody’s “downtown”—the center of all activity, the place to gather and meet, the home where all have roots. As a regional hub, Albany has become a bit of a mecca for reunions, weddings and conferences, and has all the facilities and amenities at hand to accommodate!
• 20 Flag Properties
• Historic Boutique Hotel
• 1,664 Room Supply
• Flexible meeting space in many hotels
Unique Venues
• Chehaw Park & Zoo
• Flint RiverQuarium
• Albany Museum of Art
• The Resora Experience
• Thronateeska Heritage Center
• Pretoria Fields Brewery
Hilton Garden Inn & Conference Center
• 122 guest rooms
• 13,000 sq. ft. of meeting and banquet space
• Meeting room space can be divided into three rooms
• Four additional breakout rooms
Merry Acres Event Center
• 111 guest rooms and suites
• Over 6,000 sq. ft. of meeting or event space
• Meeting room space can divide into three rooms
• Four additional breakout rooms
Albany Civic Center
• 6,000 sq. ft. of meeting space that can divide into four rooms
• 10,240 arena seating capacity that can divide to half house
• 26,000 sq. ft of exhibit space at the concourse level
• 20,000 sq. ft. of exhibit space at the arena ground floor level
Let us make it memorable for your group!
Dinner at the Zoo? Tour the Flint by Kayak? Listen to the Freedom Singers perform specially for you? Our friendly team at the Albany Convention & Visitors Bureau can assist in making all your dreams come true for your group. From custom tours to unique venues, together we’ll make your event an experience to remember!
• Prompt attention to minor injuries and illnesses
• Onsite X-ray service
• Limited lab testing
• Open weekends & most holidays
• Treat pediatric, adult & geriatric patients
Convenient Urgent Care Locations:
ALBANY: 2410 Sylvester Road 2330 Dawson Road 2000 Palmyra Road
LEESBURG: 1224 US Highway 19 South
Monday - Friday 8 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Saturday & Sunday 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Pick or purchase seasonal produce year-round, or visit this locally famous roadside farm during fall for pumpkins, sunflowers, hayrides and corn mazes!
This farm invites visitors to taste the difference of regenerative farming at the onsite restaurant or take a tour to see how food can and should be produced.
Just off the beaten path, in Arlington, Georgia, the wine flows freely, and the views of Muscadine vines are unmatched. Sip varietals on the patio or visit the distillery for locally crafted spirits.
Witness the charms of life on the farm, the presidential campaign center, childhood home and 17 other landmarks of Jimmy Carter’s hometown in Plains, Georgia.
Beautiful, Flat, Fast
Top Boston Qualifier
First Saturday in March