Macon, Georgia was incorporated in 1823, and served as the temporary state capitol from 1864-1865. It is often referred to as the historical crossroads of the south.
Macon offers many of the amenities of a large city without sacrificing sincere friendliness, or losing sight of its rich culture. As a result, the city greets visitors with a warm welcome, and a surprisingly diverse selection of activities.
For those who value historic homes, Macon presents many Southern Historic Landmarks that should not be missed. Located in downtown, the Hay House was built in the mid 1800s, in the Italian Renaissance Revival style. This breathtaking mansion features a three-story cupola. The Hay House is open for tours, and frequently offers special events. The Cannonball House is another stately historic home. Framed by huge white pillars, the home also contains a confederate museum. In fact, visitors are allowed to pick up the cannonball that landed in the home during the Civil War, thus giving the home its name.
Macon offers a small number of museums. The Georgia Music Hall of Fame is a popular stop. This is the place people such as Little Richard, James Brown, Otis Redding and the Allman Brothers Band launched their careers. This huge facility displays over 450 changing exhibits. The museum features a dynamic children's wing that encourages the exploration of music through the use of interactive exhibits and hands-on activities.
Sports fans will be thrilled with the Georgia Sports Hall of Fame. This modern, impressive complex includes a research center, beautiful theater, interactive sports area, as well as a Hall of Fame Corridor. For those interested in exploring African American art, history and culture, the Tubman African American Museum is well worth a visit. Macon's Museum of Arts and Sciences is yet another example of the city's diverse offerings. Situated on 14 acres, the modern museum contains a notable planetarium, a variety of changing exhibits, as well as picnic grounds and hiking trails.
Macon celebrates its status as the "Cherry Blossom Capitol of the World" with its annual Cherry Blossom Festival. Held in March, the annual events features live entertainment, arts and crafts, shows, and of course, cherry blossoms.
Macon is located in central Georgia at the intersection of Interstates 16 and 75.
