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 across Georgia and where Ms. Rutha Mae Harris and her Freedom Singers still perform their inspiring anthems from the Albany Movement
IN ALBANY.
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.
Explore three unique attractions at Thronateeska, including the Science Museum, the Wetherbee Planetarium and the History Museum located on Albany's only remaining brick street.
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.
B R EAT H E
In The Fresh Air
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 butterfly garden, 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 hub for outdoor wildlife activity and exploration.
The Zoo: Scenic boardwalks and cypress swamps will lead you to habitats of over 63 different species and 200 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.
Flint RiverQuarium
Albany’s underwater ecosystem is on full display in this open-air aquarium and discovery center. Explore interactive exhibits of many 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.
Turtle Grove Play Park
With several 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!
F LOAT
The Flint River
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.
PLAY
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.
PADDLE
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 the paddling experts to accompany your expedition: Kayak Attack: kayakalbanygeorgia.com (229)669-1259
FISH
Anglers will love fishing Flint's limestone shoals that are perfect for reeling in spotted and shoal bass as well as flathead catfish, bullheads and more. If you prefer casting…
• 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.
R OAM
Albany’s Vast Terrain
Chehaw Trail
11 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.
Prefer to Paddle?
Georgia Power Dam to Punk's Landing 14 miles | Moderate
Launch at the Georgia Power Dam, enjoy scenic views through downtown, blue hole springs, and level 1 rapids.
C O M M E M O RAT E
The Past
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 historic hometown, holding tightly to the remnants of the past while laying the stones of a brighter future.
Civil Rights Institute
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.
Looking Back
Early 1800s
The Creek Indians resided along the riverbank of the now Flint River, calling their home “Thronateeska,” meaning “The place where flint is picked up.”
1836
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.
Bridge House
Get the most out of your Albany visit by making our Welcome Center at The Bridge House your first stop. This historic site was built by AfricanAmerican bridge builder Horace King in 1858. Here, you can explore our gift shop featuring locally made artisan products and other goodies and receive information on how to plan your visit!
Shiloh Baptist Church
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.
Thronateeska Heritage Center
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 and make discoveries at the Science Museum
1961
The Albany Movement, the first mass movement in the Civil Rights era to have desegregation as its goal, begins.
1961
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. arrives in Albany and speaks at Shiloh Baptist Church.
1962
The Albany Movement continues, jailing more than 1,000 African Americans in rural Southern communities.
1962
The Freedom Singers formed a quartet in the home of Slater King, revitalizing the movement through song. Flip the page to learn more!
R E M E M B E R
The Movement
The Freedom Singers
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.
The Albany Movement was formed during the fall of 1961 by the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee. It’s known as the first mass movement during the Civil Rights era that aimed at total desegregation. One of the goals of the movement was the release of those unjustly jailed during the segregation protests. One of the movement leaders, William Anderson, eventually asked Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. to join, which he did by giving a speech at Shiloh Baptist Church and marching alongside hundreds of black and white protesters. The Albany movement became known as a vital chapter in 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.
Historic Performances
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
The Resora Experience
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.
R E L A X
On a Piece of Music History
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
S T R O L L
Through Our Quaint Streets
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.
Downtown EXPLORE
The Flint
112 Pine Ave, Albany, GA 31701
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.
Cornerstone Coffee
100 Pine Ave, Albany, GA 31701
The Franklins’ vision of a vibrant downtown gathering space led them to create just that. They’ve been fueling Albany’s caffeine craze through latte art, espresso shots and freshly baked goodies.
The Cookie Shoppe
115 N Jackson St, Albany, GA 31701
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 over 40 years, this iconic landmark is a one-stop-shop for breakfast, lunch or, as the locals put it, “cookies like grandma used to make.”
Bandit and the Babe
249 Pine Ave #101, Albany, GA 31701
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.
Bee Smoothie
104 Pine Ave, Albany, GA 31701
Located in the heart of downtown Albany, this health-conscious cafe aims at connecting people to nourishing food. Discover delicious real-fruit smoothies, custom-built sandwiches, freshly made paninis and more when you stop by for a healthy pick-me-up!
MADE in Albany
Gourmet Nuts & Candies
Albany is home to Georgia’s premier provider of gourmet nuts, dried fruits and candies.
Get it: Sunnyland Farms
Handmade Candles
This family-owned business in Albany crafts 100% soy candles with essential oils for a natural and allergy-friendly fragrance.
Get it: Simply Beautiful Candle Co. & Albany Welcome Center
Candy Canes
The Christmas peppermint phenomenon started right here in Albany with Bobs Candies.
Get it: Grocery Stores Everywhere
COMBOS Stuffed Snacks
Albany is home to Mars Wrigley’s only manufacturing facility of “the ultimate-stuffed snack.”
Get it: Grocery Stores Everywhere
B R OWS E
Memorable Keepsakes
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.
SCAN HERE
Blush
Browse colorful racks stocked with the latest fashion trends and chic accessories at this trendy yet timeless boutique.
The Mercantile
Explore a variety of unique vendors at this brick-andmortar location known for its gifts, trendy apparel and stunning home decor.
Tommy Mc's
This country store has a fresh batch of local produce every day. Stop by for the best Albany-grown foods and other locally made treats like cakes, cheeses and coffees.
The Showroom
Treat yourself to a VIP shopping experience at this fashion retailer. Browse their selection of apparel, including specialty pieces and handmade garments.
Green Envy Garden & Gifts
If you’re looking for the perfect place to find all of your gardening needs, check out this local boutique that sells everything from plants and gifts to custom designs. for a full list of shops
Ibiza Boutique
"Nice clothes for bad babes." This locally owned boutique boasts a boldly curated clothing collection along with statementmaking jewelry and gifts.
RA I S E
A Glass
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.
Billows Cigar Haven
Experience the ultimate night out at this trendy lounge where craft cocktails, handrolled cigars and delicious bites come together.
Harvest Moon
This casual spot is perfect for business travelers who want to get a feel for Albany. Enjoy a cold beer or a delicious cocktail with the locals while listening to live music!
Manor House Pub
If you're looking to enjoy tasty pub food and drink classics, the Manor House Pub at Merry Acres Inn is the place to be. The inn's charming veranda is the stuff of Southern dreams. You can even relax on the porch and enjoy occasional live performances.
The St. Nicholas Hotel
This historic and elegant hotel features Brasserie 1906, a bespoke on-site restaurant that’s perfect for enjoying a craft cocktail over a light starter.
Corks Wine & Charcuterie
Enjoy a refined atmosphere at this contemporary wine bar, where delicious craft drinks meet small plates and live music.
The Vault
Enjoy the local vibes of Albany's nightlife, where you can enjoy happy hour, wing nights, game nights, line dancing and more!
I N D U L G E In Great Eats
SOUTHERN COMFORT
Baby
Shane Southern Fried Chicken
Discover the essence of Southern homestyle favorites at this casual spot, serving up everything from fried chicken and fried ribs to homemade peach cobbler.
Decanter International Chophouse
Offering perfectly prepared steaks, fresh seafood and tasty cocktails, this spot has it all!
Sister's Soul Food Kitchen
Indulge in hearty, homemade dishes like fish, chicken, ribs and hot wings.
ITALIAN
Bianca's
With a cozy yet upscale ambiance, this family-owned Italian restaurant offers a variety of mouthwatering pasta, pizza and seafood options.
Harvest Moon
Known for its pizza, wings and live music, this locally owned spot has a lively atmosphere, especially on the weekends!
STEAKS & SEAFOOD
Austin's Firegrill & Oyster Bar
Juicy steaks, fresh-caught oysters and savory pasta infused with southern flair.
The
Catch
If you’re craving fresh seafood, head over to this beloved restaurant, known for its broiled oysters, jumbo lump crab cakes and other fresh seafood plates.
Corks Wine & Charcuterie
Enjoy premium pours and charcuterie boards made from locally sourced ingredients at this contemporary wine bar, along with occasional live music.
El
Vaquero Mexican Restaurant
Locally owned and operated, this spot is known for its Tex-Mex cuisine and delicious margaritas like the Coronarita.
Blackbeard's Barbecue and Seafood
Set in a rustic atmosphere, this cozy spot features Georgia hardwood-smoked BBQ, steaks, and seafood options.
Pearly's
The oldest family-owned and operated restaurant in Albany known for “famous country cookin’.”
Kim's Kitchen & Noodle Bar
A noodle bar specializing in Pho & Hot Pot. Guests can also enjoy fried rice dishes, boba drinks, spring rolls, poke bowls and assorted Asian beers.
The
Bread House & Granary
This farm-to-table restaurant features tasty lunch specials, a specialty coffee and juice bar and a health-conscious bakery storefront.
Race to Escape
Embark on a thrilling adventure at this premier escape room, where you and your crew have to work together to escape a story-themed room before time runs out.
Up 2 U Entertainment
Featuring a rage room, axe throwing, splatter paint and board games, there’s so much to experience at this popular entertainment facility!
All American Fun Park
Experience a thrilling day with the whole family at this entertainment center by checking out their bowling lanes, miniature golf courses and ¼ mile gokart track!
A R T F U L LY
Albany
Albany Area Arts Council
Since 1976, this non-profit organization has supported and advocated for Albany’s art scene by hosting exhibitions, local events and classes.
Albany Museum of Art
This museum is perfect for those with big imaginations and cultural fascinations, with exhibits featuring both European and American artwork spanning centuries. It's also home to the largest collection of sub-Saharan African art in the Southeast outside of a university setting.
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.
Art Trail
Embark on an artistic adventure by checking out our selection of extraordinary murals along our Art Trails!
Theatre Albany
Experience the magic of a live performance at this local community theatre, hosting a variety of unique programming throughout the year.
The Clay Spot
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!
L I S T E N
To the Sounds of the South
Flint River Entertainment Complex
The Freedom Singers
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, comprised of 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.
J. Lane Theater
Formerly known as The State Theater, this stage holds the history of local singers Luke Bryan, Dallas Davidson and Field Mob.
Live
Music
Or, head to any of these restaurants and pubs for live performances throughout every weekend.
Since 1952, Merry Acres Inn has been providing Southern hospitality to generations of travelers. From thoughtfully renovated rooms featuring modern amenities to a curated dining experience at The Pub, where gastronomy comes alive, discover the cornerstone of hospitality at Albany’s longest-standing hotel.
Harvest Moon
The Vault Manor House Pub
MC’s Bar & Grill
The Flint Corks Wine & Charcuterie
Pretoria Fields Farm
C R O S S
The Finish Line
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.
TE S T
The Freedom Singers
Your Limits
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.
C E L E B R AT E
The Seasons
Spring
Combos Marathon and Half
Marathon MARCH
Albany Downtown Street Festival
MARCH
Southwest Georgia Arts, Crafts and Car Show APRIL
Upland Wildlife Festival APRIL
US 19 Dragway
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 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.
Golf Courses
Golfers will be pleased to find a variety of golf courses brimming with modern luxury amenities and lush green fairways nearby.
Fall Summer
Pecan City Pedlars Nut Roll
SEPTEMBER
Water, Wings & Wildlife Festival
SEPTEMBER
Albany State University Homecoming
OCTOBER
Practice Your Putt at:
• Flint River Municipal Golf Course
• River Pointe Golf Course
First Fridays on The Flint MAY-NOVEMBER
Flint River Keeper's Knobby Knees Music Festival JUNE
Independence Day Celebration JULY
Winter
Santa Exhibit DECEMBER
Peppermint Pops DECEMBER
Albany Christmas Parade DECEMBER
Jingle Bell Jog DECEMBER
SWGA Quail Invitational JANUARY
Habitat for Humanity Hammer Jam
OCTOBER
The HeART of Albany Festival
NOVEMBER
• Stonebridge Golf & Country Club for a full calendar of events! SCAN HERE
The Annual Exchange Club Fair
NOVEMBER
M E E T
In Georgia's Southwest Hub
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!
Accommodation Highlights
• 20 Flag Properties
• Historic Boutique Hotels
• 1,400 Room Supply
• Flexible meeting space in many hotels
Unique Venues
• Albany Civil Rights Institute
• Albany Museum of Art
• Chehaw Park & Zoo
• Flint RiverQuarium
• Hasan Temple
• The Resora Experience
• Thronateeska Heritage Center
CONFERENCE CENTERS
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
LIFE IS AN EVENT!
Let us make it memorable for your group! for
Dinner at the Zoo? Tour the Flint by Kayak? Listen to the Freedom Singers perform just 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!
E X P L
Destinations Nearby
Mark's Melon Patch
Pick or purchase seasonal produce year-round, or visit this locally famous roadside farm during fall for pumpkins, sunflowers, hayrides and corn mazes!
White Oak Pastures
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.
Still Pond Vineyard and Distillery
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.
Jimmy Carter National Historic Site
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.
