Milledgeville, Georgia: A Town Where History and Culture Thrive
Milledgeville, Georgia, is a town steeped in history, culture, and undeniable charm. Originally designed as Georgia’s fourth capital city, which it served from 1807 to 1868, the town was laid out in a grid formation. Its oak-lined streets whisper stories of the past, reflected in the antebellum architecture, intricate wrought iron details, and historic churches. Discover the town once home to one of the most notable Southern Gothic writers and seized during Sherman’s March to the Sea. Today, Milledgeville serves as the backdrop to picturesque college campuses, a vibrant downtown, and a haven for those seeking a leisurely vacation. It’s a place where the past and the future coexist, offering innovative cuisine, thrilling adventures, and emerging artists alongside beautifully preserved antebellum homes and storied streets.
History Awaits
Andalusia: Home of Flannery O’Connor
Southern Gothic writer Flannery O’Connor is celebrated as one of America’s greatest short-story authors. Her literary works were shaped by her struggles with lupus, her Catholic faith, and her home at Andalusia Farm. O’Connor lived on the farm from 1951 until her passing in 1964, during which she penned the majority of her stories. In 1980, the farm was added to the National Register of Historic Places. Andalusia was bequeathed to Georgia College in 2017, who has since developed the Andalusia Interpretive Center, displaying artifacts spanning the land’s history since its establishment dating back to 1814.
Georgia’s Old Governor’s Mansion
Milledgeville was Georgia’s capital city for over 60 years and in 1839, Georgia’s Old Governor’s Mansion was completed, serving as the residence for the state’s chief executives. The grand estate, noted as an example of High Greek Revival architecture, was claimed by General William T. Sherman during his “March to the Sea” in 1864 and acted as his headquarters. The home was given to Georgia College in 1889, then called the Georgia Normal & Industrial College. Today, the Mansion is open for tours, Tuesday through Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., and Sunday, 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Heritage Hall & Rare Book Room
Notable artifacts, documents, and archives are meticulously preserved and displayed within Heritage Hall at Georgia College. The repository encompasses historic and cultural elements from Milledgeville/Baldwin County and surrounding areas. The Special Collections Gallery within Heritage Hall is the home to the Flannery O’Connor Gallery of Southern Literary Works, the Golden Slipper Award, and displays dedicated to journalist Julia Flisch, Pulitzer Prize winner Alice Walker, and Milledgeville’s contributions to music. Just steps away, the Rare Book Room offers a glimpse into historic manuscripts, papers, and books, making it a treasure trove for literature enthusiasts.
Trolley Tours
Uncover Milledgeville’s rich history on a trolley tour. The Historic Trolley Tour offers an hour-long journey through downtown and the Statehouse Square, home to Georgia’s Old Capitol Building and St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church. For a unique perspective into one of Milledgeville’s most notable landmarks, the Central State Hospital Campus Trolley Tour provides a two-hour exploration of what was once the world’s largest mental institution. Led by a former hospital employee, the tour reveals fascinating insights into a site that once served over 12,000 patients and employed 6,000 staff members.
Walking Tours
Stroll through history with the town’s self-guided Historic Walking Tour. Pick up a brochure at the Milledgeville Visitor’s Center to explore over 40 preserved structures, from Milledgeville Federal-style homes to Victorian, Greek, and Classical Revival designs. Number five on the tour, Memory Hill Cemetery, serves as the final resting place of notable figures like Congressman Carl Vinson, Flannery O’Connor, and L.Q.C. Lamar. An additional self-guided walking tour begins at the cemetery’s gazebo and highlights 47 points of interest throughout the grounds. Brochures for the tour are available at the gazebo.
Outdoor Adventures
Beyond downtown’s historic charm, Milledgeville offers scenic outdoor escapes. Lake Sinclair, created in 1953, boasts 15,300 acres of serene waters perfect for relaxation, adventure, and family fun. At Lockerly Arboretum, history and recreation converge. The centerpiece, Rose Hill, a National Register-listed 1852 Greek Revival home, is surrounded by 50 acres of gardens, walking trails, and a picturesque pond. The Oconee River Greenway provides another natural retreat, with trails, boardwalks, and riverside paths for walking, running, or picnicking. For a more adventurous experience, local outfitters offer kayaking and canoeing along the river, and jet skiing or boating on the lake.
Unexpected Dining
Milledgeville’s dining scene offers an exciting contrast to its historic surroundings, blending bold flavors and innovative culinary concepts. Start your culinary adventure at Bollywood Tacos, where Mexican and Indian fusion dishes create an unforgettable dining experience. If you’re craving fresh, vibrant Mediterranean cuisine, Metropolis Café serves up authentic dishes made with high-quality ingredients. Kai Thai offers a diverse menu of traditional Thai dishes and beautifully crafted sushi rolls, providing a unique and flavorful dining experience. Finally, Greene’s puts a modern spin on classic Southern comfort food, reimagining beloved dishes with innovative twists.
Milledgeville is a destination where history, culture, and modern life come together to create an experience unlike any other. From exploring the legacy of iconic writers to strolling oak-lined streets filled with architectural beauty, Milledgeville invites you to uncover its stories. Whether you’re diving into its rich past, savoring its diverse dining, or enjoying its scenic outdoor spaces, this vibrant town promises unforgettable moments. Start planning your trip to Milledgeville today and see why it continues to captivate the hearts of visitors.