The spring semester is over, and summer is heating up! If you’re staying in Macon for this sunny season, you are in for a treat. Whether you’re working, taking classes or just here for fun, there are plenty of ways to relax and enjoy yourself.
Summer is the perfect time for Mercer students, grads and community members to immerse themselves in the city. Here is our checklist for making the most of your Macon summer.
Attend Bragg Jam
Since the summer of 1999, Macon has come together annually to celebrate something that brings everyone together: music. Held at venues throughout the city, Bragg Jam offers attendees the chance to enjoy the sounds of local musicians, grab some local art, and vibe with the City of Soul! This year’s festival is July 30. Tickets are on sale now, and the lineup will be announced soon.
Tube the Ocmulgee River
Looking to get outside and beat the heat? Grab your friends and a tube and head to Amerson River Park! In about two hours, you can float a section of the Ocmulgee River that runs adjacent to the park. If you want to spend longer on the river, make pit stops at the sandbars and enjoy the nature around you. Just don’t forget your sunscreen.
Play trivia
Several businesses in downtown Macon offer free trivia weekly! With themes such as “The Office,” Disney and Harry Potter, you are guaranteed to have a fun time. Some restaurants and bars where you can play trivia are Just Tap’d, Reboot Retrocade, The Hummingbird and the Rookery.
Hike in a National Historical Park
Macon is home to the Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park. Located adjacent to downtown Macon, this park is stunning in the summer. The trees are fully bloomed, and animals can be found everywhere. Plus, the history of this land is incredible.
Attend the Macon Film Festival
The 17th annual Macon Film Festival takes place Aug. 18-21. Broaden your horizons by screening a variety of independent films and participating in Q&As and workshops. A unique part of this festival is the full-dome films, which are projected in the Macon Museum of Arts and Science’s planetarium.
Enjoy the beach at Lake Tobesofkee
Located just outside of Macon, this beautiful lake is a great way to spend your day! Lay out on the public beach or swim in the lake. Lake Tobesofkee is open daily from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Head here to celebrate the Fourth of July and see the annual fireworks show!
Get a taste of Macon
The summer is an excellent time to try new restaurants! Downtown Macon is home to over 50 restaurants. Try a new one weekly. I suggest choosing a street downtown each week and dining at a restaurant located there. Another great place to find new restaurant options is the downtown Macon social media pages. Follow @downtownmacon on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.
