Need a relaxing Southern getaway or cultural day trip? Head to Albany, Georgia! Nestled along the Flint River, Albany offers outdoor recreation, rich African American history, and family-friendly attractions. From kayaking and gardens to museums and music legends, this charming town blends nature, heritage, and heart.
Albany, GA Highlights:
- Walk the Riverfront Greenway Trail: Stroll or bike along scenic paths beside the Flint River.
- Visit the Ray Charles Plaza: Enjoy interactive statues and music honoring Albany’s famous son.
- Explore the Flint RiverQuarium: Discover aquatic life native to Southwest Georgia in this family-friendly facility.
- Wander through the Thronateeska Heritage Center: Learn about science, history, and trains in one dynamic complex.
- Relax at the Albany State University campus and gardens: Tour peaceful green spaces and historic buildings.
When I like to visit Albany, GA
The best time to visit Albany is in spring and fall (March–May and September–November). Mild weather is ideal for outdoor activities, garden walks, and seasonal festivals like the Mardi Gras Street Festival or the Riverfront Blues Festival.
Tips for getting to Albany, GA
- If you are traveling by car: Albany is accessible via U.S. Highways 19, 82, and 300. It's about 3 hours south of Atlanta and 2 hours from Tallahassee, FL.
- By Air: Southwest Georgia Regional Airport (ABY) provides regional flights, including service to Atlanta.
- By Bus: Greyhound and other intercity bus services operate routes connecting Albany to surrounding cities.
Where I like to stay in Albany, GA
- Courtyard by Marriott Albany – Modern rooms with a bistro, fitness center, and easy access to shopping and dining.
- Hampton Inn & Suites Albany at Albany Mall – Comfortable lodging with complimentary breakfast near retail hubs.
- Hilton Garden Inn Albany – Downtown location near the riverfront and major attractions.
Best Things to Do in Albany, GA
1. Flint RiverQuarium
The Flint RiverQuarium in Albany, Georgia follows the 350-mile journey of the Flint River into the Gulf of Mexico and is home to one of the world’s few open-air aquariums, the 175,000-gallon Blue Hole. Visitors at the unique aquarium can view the mysteries of the underwater world from a new perspective and get up close to over one hundred species of turtles, alligators, fish, and many other aquatic creatures. Also at the Flint RiverQuarium is the Cypress Pond Aviary, which contains over thirty birds native to the watershed of Flint River, and the massive Imagination Theater.
117 Pine Ave, Albany, GA 31701, Phone: 229-639-2650
2. Chehaw Park & Zoo
The Chehaw Park and Zoo spans across more than seven hundred acres of conservation, pristine land, as well as a wildlife park. One of just two accredited zoos in the state of Georgia, with the other being Zoo Atlanta, the Chehaw Zoo focuses on three founding areas: education, preservation, and conservation. Children can take a ride on the train or visit with friendly animals at the petting zoo. The park itself is home to one of the largest parks in the state for kids, BMX bike racing, and nature trails. Chehaw Park also includes campgrounds with numerous RV and tent campsites.
105 Chehaw Park Rd, Albany, GA 31701, Phone: 229-430-5275
3. Pretoria Fields Collective
The Pretoria Fields Collective in Albany, Georgia is a collective of brewers and farmers who are passionate about craft beer. With a focus on sustainable agriculture and organic farming, organic rye, wheat, and barley are grown on the farm, as well as various fruits and hops, making Pretoria Fields the only brewery within the Southeast to grow their own ingredients for their beers. The on-site production brewery at the Pretoria Fields Collective is open to the general public for tours and there is a pet-friendly, family-friendly taproom open for guests who wish to sample any of their craft brews.
120 Pine Ave, Albany, GA 31701, Phone: 229-518-1770
Attractions for Couples
4. Thronateeska Heritage Center
The Thronateeska Heritage Center is situated in the historic downtown district of Albany, on the 100 block of the city’s only remaining brick street. It’s primarily made up of three main places for visitors to explore: the Science Museum, the 40-foot full dome HD Wetherbee Planetarium, and the History Museum. The science and local history museums feature an array of interactive exhibits and numerous objects for guests to see. In addition to the three facilities, the campus of the Thronateeska Heritage Center also includes the South Georgia Archives, the Georgia Museum of Surveying and Mapping, and a rail car display.
100 W Roosevelt Ave, Albany, GA 31701, Phone: 229-432-6955
5. Albany Museum of Art
The Albany Museum of Art is home to several galleries showcasing a variety of works of art and hosts a number of special exhibitions year-round. These exhibitions highlight both internationally and nationally recognized artists. There is also a space at the art museum dedicated as a sales gallery for artists in the region. A nationally accredited museum, the Albany Museum of Art has a growing art collection that includes a rather impressive collection of European and American art from the nineteenth and twentieth centuries, as well as one of the Southeast’s largest traditional African art collections, outside of university settings.
311 Meadowlark Dr, Albany, GA 31707, Phone: 229-439-8400
Where I Like to Eat in Albany, GA
- Blackbeard’s B&B Bar-B-Que – Southern BBQ favorites served up with generous portions and local flair.
- The Catch – Laid-back seafood spot with po'boys, fried shrimp, and oysters.
- Our Daily Bread Café – Casual lunch café known for fresh sandwiches, soups, and homemade desserts.
My favorite local events:
- Mardi Gras Street Festival (February/March) – Music, food, and colorful celebration downtown.
- Riverfront Blues Festival (September) – Live music and vendors along the Flint River.
- Southwest Georgia Regional Fair (October) – Carnival rides, exhibits, and family fun at the Exchange Club Fairgrounds.
My favorite day trips within 30 Minutes of Albany, Georgia:
- Chehaw Park & Zoo (10–15 min) – Wildlife exhibits, disc golf, and family recreation in a natural setting.
- Radium Springs Gardens (15 min) – One of Georgia’s Seven Natural Wonders, known for crystal-clear waters and historic ruins.
- Flint River Trails (5–10 min) – Bike or hike along expanding scenic trail networks through parks and forests.
- Leesburg (20–25 min) – Small-town charm, antique shops, and a peaceful rural vibe.
- Lake Chehaw (25–30 min) – Kayak, fish, or picnic on the water just north of the city.
Plan Your Trip