Need a friendly college town with Southern charm, arts, and outdoor fun? Head to Statesboro! Home to Georgia Southern University, Statesboro blends culture, history, and nature with a welcoming small-town feel. Whether you're exploring the arts scene, cheering on the Eagles, or cooling off at a splash park, Statesboro is a great Southern escape with something for everyone.
Statesboro, GA Highlights:
- Georgia Southern University: Explore a vibrant campus with museums, performing arts, and athletic events.
- Botanic Garden at Georgia Southern: Stroll through native plant displays, woodland trails, and heritage gardens.
- Center for Wildlife Education: Meet birds of prey, reptiles, and learn about native Georgia species on campus.
- Splash in the Boro: Family-friendly water park with pools, lazy rivers, and slides for hot Georgia days.
- Downtown Statesboro: Enjoy boutique shopping, local dining, and community events in a charming historic district.
Best Time to Visit Statesboro, GA
The best time to visit Statesboro is during the spring and fall (March–May and September–November). These seasons offer mild temperatures perfect for exploring parks, gardens, and campus life. Summer is lively with water park fun, while winter is mild and quiet.
How to Get to Statesboro, GA
- If you are traveling by car: Statesboro is located along U.S. Route 301, about 1 hour northwest of Savannah and 3.5 hours southeast of Atlanta.
- By Air: Fly into Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV) and rent a car for the 50-minute drive to Statesboro.
- By Bus: Southeastern Stages and regional shuttle services connect Statesboro with Savannah, Atlanta, and other nearby cities.
Where to Stay in Statesboro, GA
- Home2 Suites by Hilton Statesboro – Comfortable, modern suites with kitchens and close proximity to Georgia Southern.
- Hampton Inn Statesboro – Reliable option with complimentary breakfast and an outdoor pool.
- The Inn at Statesboro – Budget-friendly stay within walking distance of the university and downtown dining.
Best Things to Do in Statesboro, GA
⮕ Meet Native Creatures at The Center for Wildlife Education, Georgia Southern University
The Center for Wildlife Education and the Lamar Q Ball, Jr. Raptor Center were established to teach the wider public, including school groups, all about wildlife. The center started off with a single Bald Eagle in 1997 and has grown by leaps and bounds. Today the center covers over 17 acres and resident animals include mammals like opossums and skunks, rodents, reptiles, amphibians, birds, waterfowl and raptors. Visitors can observe the animals as they walk along trails and walkways and can attend daily wildlife presentations. You are welcome to bring along your camera to catch the various animals and raptors in action.
The Center for Wildlife Education, Georgia Southern University, 1332 Southern Dr, Statesboro, GA 30458, Phone: 912-478-4636
⮕ Make a Splash at Splash in the Boro
Splash in the Boro is Statesboro’s very popular water park and year-round aquatic center. This family-friendly park offers a variety of water environments for all ages to enjoy, including a brilliant Wave Pool with a small splash pad. If you would like to get some serious swimming training you can head straight to the lane pool, while visitors in need of physical therapy can make use of the heated therapy pool. On the other hand, if you just want to have fun you can float on the Lazy River, hit the slides and tubes, race down the Mat Racer or have hours of fun on the Flow Rider.
Splash in the Boro, 1388 Highway 24, E. Statesboro, GA 30461, Phone: 912-489-3000
⮕ If You Love Blossoms and Trails, Wander the Georgia Southern Botanical Garden
Covering almost 11 acres adjacent to the Georgia Southern University Campus, this beautiful botanical garden protects and showcases a many native Georgia plants from the southeastern plains, several of which are protected or rare. At the center of the gardens you will see the historic Bland farmstead house which now serves as a meeting place and Visitor’s Center. You are welcome to some and walk along the many pathways and woodland trials which meander through the gardens showing off the many collections which include an azalea garden, children’s garden, heritage gardens and a bog area. When you need a break you can find a handy bench and just sit and admire the birdlife.
The Georgia Southern Botanical Garden, 1503 Bland Ave, Statesboro, GA 30460, Phone: 912-478-1149
Activities and Attractions for Couples:
⮕ Discover Local History at The Georgia Southern Museum
The Georgia Southern Museum was established 40 years ago in the university’s historic Rosenwald Building which was built in 1937. At the heart of the museum’s permanent collection is the fascinating 78-million year old fossilized skeleton of a Mosasaur, which was a fearsome marine carnivore which lived in the Tyrannosaurus Rex era. Also on display, and equally fascinating, is the oldest whale fossil found in America, which is just 40-million years old. Various other ancient and modern animal and marine skeletons and fossils are included in the collection and the museum also hosts regular temporary exhibitions covering many topics related to southern Georgia.
The Georgia Southern Museum, 2142 Southern Dr, Rosenwald Building, Statesboro, GA 30458, Phone: 912-478-5444
⮕ Cheer for the Eagles at J.I. Clements Stadium
Baseball fans are in for a treat when they visit the J.I. Clements Stadium in Statesboro. The modern stadium was built in 2005 and is the home field of the Georgia Southern University Eagles Baseball team. The stadium can comfortably seat 3000 fans and boasts a combination clubhouse/dugout located along the third baseline and a building to house the batting cages. Fans can top up their energy at the on-site concessions which sell a good range of light meals and snacks at very student-friendly prices. The atmosphere during the home games is always good and visitors are very welcome to come and watch the Eagles in action.
J.I. Clements Stadium, 2476 Southern Dr, Statesboro, GA 30458, Phone: 912-478-4636
⮕ Catch the Action at Hanner Fieldhouse
The Hanner Fieldhouse is a 4000+ seat arena belonging to the Georgia Southern University. The arena provides a venue for the university’s annual fall commencement ceremonies and has hosted some political rallies in the past. However, the arena is primarily known as the home of the universities men’s and women’s Eagles basketball teams as well as the women’s volleyball team. The arena forms part of the larger Hanner Complex, which is home to a gymnasium, an 8-lane swimming pool and an athletic track. Visitors to Statesboro are always welcome to come and join the college students as they cheer on their teams.
Hanner Fieldhouse Arena, 590 Herty Drive, Statesboro, GA 30458, Phone: 800-478-9467
⮕ If You Crave Down-Home Cooking, Dine at Uncle Shug’s on Main
Since 1996, when the original Uncle Shug’s Chicken Barn opened its doors, this restaurant group has been pleasing palates in and around Statesboro. Uncle Shug’s on Main became the latest restaurant in the group in 2018. Here you will find an excellent selection of authentic “Chicken Barn” favorites alongside the more recent dishes from Uncle Shug’s BBQ. The Main Street branch offers a cafeteria-style service of southern delights from Monday to Saturday for lunch and dinner, (as well as made-to-order items from the a la carte menu). In addition Uncle Shug’s on Main is famous for their Saturday Buffet Breakfast and their Southern Sunday Buffet.
Uncle Shug’s on Main, 434 S. Main Street, Statesboro, GA 30458, Phone: 912-489-8658
Where to Eat in Statesboro, GA
- Millhouse Steakhouse – Local favorite for steaks, seafood, and Southern comfort food with a modern twist.
- Emma’s Restaurant & Lounge – Upscale yet relaxed dining offering Southern-inspired dishes and cocktails.
- El Sombrero – Authentic Mexican food in a casual setting, great for groups and families.
If you are interested in local events:
- Downtown Statesboro First Friday (Monthly) – Family-friendly events, live music, food trucks, and local vendors every first Friday.
- ArtsFest (Spring) – A free community art festival hosted by Georgia Southern with hands-on art activities and performances.
- Averitt Center for the Arts Exhibits (Year-round) – Enjoy rotating art exhibits, local showcases, and cultural programming.
If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes of Statesboro, Georgia:
- Brooklet (15 min) – Visit for its small-town feel and the annual Peanut Festival featuring parades and family fun.
- Portal (20–25 min) – Explore Georgia Southern’s Georgia Southern Museum satellite with prehistoric fossils and local history.
- Register (10–15 min) – Quiet rural stop with local farms and scenic country drives.
- Bulloch County Courthouse Square (Local) – Stroll the historic courthouse grounds and enjoy seasonal farmers markets.
- Stilson and Nevils communities (30 min) – Rural charm and peaceful backroads for those looking to escape into the countryside.
- Ogeechee River (20–30 min) – Enjoy fishing, kayaking, or nature walks along this winding coastal plain river.
- Plantation Trace wineries (30 min) – Sample locally produced wines at small, family-run vineyards in the region.
- Georgia Southern Wildlife Education Trail (Local) – Combine birdwatching, nature photography, and conservation education in one spot.
- Savannah National Wildlife Refuge (About 1 hour, worth it!) – If you don’t mind a drive, explore wildlife viewing and scenic trails in a pristine lowcountry habitat.
Frequently Asked Questions:
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Where is Statesboro located?
- Statesboro is the largest city in Bulloch County in southeastern Georgia.
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What university is located in Statesboro?
- Home to Georgia Southern University, the city offers several university-owned attractions for visitors.
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What are some educational attractions in Statesboro?
- At the top of the list is the Center for Wildlife Education and the Georgia Southern Museum, both of which are very popular with families.
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What other attractions can visitors enjoy in Statesboro?
- For a break from educational attractions, you can visit the Georgia Southern Botanical Gardens, the 67 Antique Mall, or the Eagle Creek Brewing Company.
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What family-friendly activities are available in Statesboro?
- The whole family will enjoy visiting the Splash in the Boro Water Park and the two university sports stadiums where you can see the famous Statesboro Eagles in action.
At a Glance:
Best Time to Visit
Places to Stay
Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Warm temperatures and blooming flowers.
Hampton Inn Statesboro – A comfortable stay near Georgia Southern University.
Visit the Botanic Garden at Georgia Southern – Explore beautiful gardens and native plants.
Summer (June-August) – Hot but great for water activities and festivals.
Home2 Suites by Hilton Statesboro – A modern stay with extended-stay amenities.
Cool off at Splash in the Boro – A fun waterpark with slides and a lazy river.
Fall (September-November) – Pleasant temperatures and football season excitement.
Holiday Inn Express Statesboro – A centrally located option with great amenities.
Attend a Georgia Southern Eagles football game – Experience the energy of college football at Paulson Stadium.
Winter (December-February) – Mild temperatures with fewer crowds.
SpringHill Suites by Marriott Statesboro – A cozy and stylish hotel for a winter retreat.
Visit the Averitt Center for the Arts – Enjoy local theater performances, art exhibits, and cultural events.
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