20 Things To Do In Albany GA

Albany is in the southwestern part of the state of Georgia on the banks of the Flint River. Although this a lesser-known part of the state, Albany has plenty of rich history and exciting attractions to explore, making it a unique destination for visitors. What’s more, it’s only a three-hour drive from the state’s capital of Atlanta and a 1.5-hour drive from Florida’s capital, Tallahassee. 

The city was founded in 1836 and named after Albany, New York. The city’s proximity to the river provided transportation and trade opportunities, making Albany a popular trading centre for cotton and other goods. Today, a booming pecan industry has earned it the nickname of “Pecan Capital of the World.” Albany is also the home of the annual National Pecan Festival.

In addition to plenty of pecans, Albany is also known for its Southern Hospitality and cultural diversity. These can be seen through the city’s abundance of historical landmarks, interesting museums and restaurants. Albany also has a great music scene because of its ties to Ray Charles, who was born in this city, which inspires annual festivals and events throughout the city.

There are some fun things to do in Albany, from sprawling green spaces that allow you to connect with nature, intriguing museums that give you a glimpse into the city’s cultural significance, and welcoming restaurants with authentic Southern flavours.

Albany, Georgia

20 Things To Do In Albany

1- Make Friends With The Marine Life At The Flint RiverQuarium

The Flint RiverQuarium is an immersive aquatic experience on the banks of the Flint River.

The unique aquarium offers a closer look at the ecosystems and wildlife found in the river and surrounding areas, making it the perfect place to learn more about the natural species that inhabit Albany.

Visitors can explore interactive exhibits of over 1,300 animals and even walk through underwater tunnels.

The Flint Riverquairum is open daily from 10 am to 5 pm. Admission starts at just $9 per adult. Memberships are available if you plan to be a frequent visitor.

The Flint RiverQuarium is at 101 Pine Ave, Albany, GA 31701.

2- Gaze Into The Stars At The Thronateeska Heritage Center Planetarium

The Thronateeska Heritage Center is one of the top cultural and historical institutions in Albany.

The name “Thronateeska” is a Muskogee Creek Indian word meaning “flint picking up place.”

The museum showcases the area’s Native American roots through interesting exhibits.

In addition to history, you can also find fun science-based exhibits in the museum.

One of our favorites at the Thronateeska Heritage Center is the Wetherbee Planetarium shows that covers topics such as molecules, our planet and the solar system.

The museum is open Thursday through Saturday from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm.

The Thronateeska Heritage Center Planetarium is at 100 W Roosevelt Ave, Albany, GA 31701.

3- Pay Tribute To The King Of Soul At The Ray Charles Memorial

You’ve probably heard of musical legend Ray Charles, but did you know he was born in Albany, Georgia?

The king of soul music started his early life here, and although moved away at a young age, his humble beginnings brought much pride to the city.

The memorial, in downtown Albany, honors his remarkable life and contributions to the world of music.

Visitors gather from all over to snap a picture and pay tribute to Charles.

The monument features the musician sitting at his piano, which truly captures his lifetime as an artist.

This cherished landmark can be visited at any time during your visit and is a great budget-friendly siting.

The Ray Charles Memorial is at Riverfront Trail, Albany, GA 31701.

4- Dive Into History At The Albany Civil Rights Museum And Institute

Being an integral part of the South, the state of Georgia had a significant role during the Civil Rights Movement.

Martin Luther King Jr.’s hometown is just three hours away in Atlanta.

The Albany Civil Rights Museum and Institute use oral histories, photographs, documents and artifacts, and educational exhibits to take visitors through the tribulations and events of the Civil Rights Movement.

The centre also serves as a hub for ongoing research pertaining to this topic.

The Albany Civil Rights Museum And Institute is open daily (11 am to 2 pm). Admission starts at $6 per adult.

The Albany Civil Rights Museum and Institute is at 326 W Whitney Ave, Albany, GA 31701.

5- See A Concert At The Albany Civic Center

The Albany James H. Gray Sr. Civic Center is the premier spot for all live performance arts.

Whether you’re interested in concerts, theatrical performances, comedy shows, sporting events, or conferences, you can find it at the Albany Civic Center.

The center features performances from locally known and international artists.

The Albany Civic Center acts as a cultural hub for the community, gathering thousands of visitors each year.

Check out the calendar of events to see what performances will be at the Civic Center during your visit to Albany.

The Albany Civic Center is at 100 W Oglethorpe Blvd, Albany, GA 31701.

6- View The Collection At The Albany Museum of Art

The Albany Museum of Art is the best spot in the city to appreciate the visual arts and creativity of American and European artists.

This is an American Alliance of Museums accredited member.

The Albany Museum of Art is open from Tuesdays to Saturdays (10 am to 5 pm).

The best part about the amA is that admission is free, making it a great activity if you are looking to have fun on a budget.

The Albany Museum of Art is at 311 Meadowlark Dr, Albany, GA 31707.

7- Play Mini Golf At All American Fun Park

If you are looking for good ol’ family fun, you can find it at All American Fun Park.

“Fun” is even in its name!

The amusement park features two miniature golf courses, a 1/4 mile go-kart track,
sixteen bowling lanes, laser tag, bumper cars, and more.

All American Fun Park has plenty of deals, special rates, and programs to fit your budget and the amount of fun you want to have.

They even have an Unlimited Package that gives you access to all the action for just $34.99 per person.

All American Fun Park is at 2608 N Slappey Blvd, Albany, GA 31701.

8- Explore The Animals At Chehaw Park & Zoo

The Chehaw Park and Zoo is one of the top attractions in Albany.

You can find camping, a splash park, and a zoo with over 70 species including cheetahs, black rhinos and alligators.

The park was created in 1979 and is operates to protect endangered species and their habitats.

The Chehaw Park and Zoo offers events including children’s educational programs, birthday parties, and overnight experiences.

The park is open from 8 am to 6 pm, with Zoo hours between 9.30 am to 4.30 pm.

Chehaw Park & Zoo is at 105 Chehaw Park Rd, Albany, GA 31701.

9- Take A Tour Of Albany State University

Albany State University (ASU) is a historically black university (HBCU) dedicated to providing education opportunities to African-American students.

The university is home to state-of-the-art facilities and interesting research centers.

Campus tours are conducted by Holley Ambassadors and allow you to discover the heritage of the university and its focus on academic excellence.

Campus tours are available by request Monday through Friday (10 am or 2 pm).

Albany State University is at 504 College Dr, Albany, GA 31705.

10- Hike The Riverfront Trail At RiverFront Park

RiverFront Park is the heart of Albany.

Located along the Flint River, the park provides plenty of activities and amenities for locals and visitors including tranquil walking trails, picnic areas, playgrounds, and a boardwalk that extends along the river.

RiverFront Park is also home to community events, concerts, and festivals throughout the year.

Whether you want to attend an event or take a peaceful stroll through nature, this park definitely needs to be on your list for your visit to Albany.

RiverFront Park is at S Front St, Albany, GA 31701.

11- Taste Locally Brewed Beer At Pretoria Fields Collective

The Pretoria Fields Collective is a great spot to enjoy delicious craft beers in a unique environment.

Pretoria Fields’ beers are brewed in-house using locally sourced ingredients, which makes it the perfect way to get a real taste of Albany.

The Taproom has daily live music and other entertainment to enjoy as well as an on-site food truck, Pretoria Eats, serving up fresh hot pizza and loaded nachos.

Pretoria Fields Collective is at 120 Pine Ave, Albany, GA 31701.

12- Get Tickets To A Live Performance At Theatre Albany

This historic theatre is one of the oldest continuously operating community theatres in the state.

Theater Albany produces plays, musicals, and other theatrical productions with a focus on local talent.

You may even see the next up-and-coming star performing here.

In addition to shows, the theater also hosts special events, workshops, and educational programs.

You can check the calendar of events to see shows and times.

Theatre Albany is at 514 Pine Ave, Albany, GA 31701.

13- Have A Picnic In The City’s Oldest Park At Tift Park

Tift Park was founded in 1908, making it the city’s oldest park.

The lush green spaces and picnic areas make it an ideal spot for family gatherings, picnics and social gatherings.

It is also home to the Tift Park City Market, which hosts vendors selling local produce and handmade crafts on Saturday mornings.

The gorgeous and historic park is open from Monday to Friday (8 am to 5 pm) and 24 hours on Saturday and Sunday.

Tift Park is at 1301 N Monroe St, Albany, GA 31701.

14- Get A Taste Of Delicious Southen Food At Pearly’s Famous Country Cooking

Pearly’s Famous Country Cooking is an Albany staple.

Known for serving delicious and hearty Southern cuisine, the restaurant is a favorite among locals and visitors.

The menu features classic Southern comfort foods such as Fried Grouper Nuggets, Cornbread, Turnip Greens, and Buttermilk Pie.

Pearly’s is Albany’s oldest family-owned and operated restaurant, so it is definitely worth a visit to the “Pearly Gates” as the locals refer to it.

Be sure to grab breakfast or lunch in this charming spot during your stay in Albany.

Pearly’s Famous Country Cooking is at 814 N Slappey Blvd, Albany, GA 31701.

 

Radium Springs Gardens is a unique Albany gem that you just can’t miss.

The park features the largest natural spring in the state of Georgia which feature crystal-clear waters from an underground cave.

The stunning spring is surrounded by natural greenery such as azaleas, camellias, and magnolias.

Fun Fact: The Springs and Gardens used to be a well-known resort and casino in the 1920s.

Visitors can explore the boardwalks and walking trails which provide a serene atmosphere and beautiful views of Radium Springs.

Radium Springs Gardens is open everyday from 9 am to 7 pm.

Radium Springs Gardens is at 2501 Radium Springs Rd, Albany, GA 31705.

16- Go Shopping At The Albany Mall

What’s a vacation without a bit of shopping?

The Albany Mall is one of the most popular shopping destinations in Albany, featuring a wide variety of department stores, classic retailers, and unique shops to explore.

Here, you can find everything from clothing to electronics.

The mall is also the host of tons of dining options, including fast-casual options or sit-down dining.

The Albany Mall is in the northwest part of the city.

It is open Monday to Saturday (10 am to 8 pm) and Sunday (12 pm to 6 pm).

The Albany Mall is at 2601 Dawson Rd c10, Albany, GA 31707.

17- Take The Kids To The Playground At Turtle Grove Park

Turtle Grove Park, within RiverFront Park, is a children-oriented space that provides plenty of fun.

The park features several areas for kids to enjoy including Dino Dig, Tot Lot, Big Kid Area, Critters Area, Mosaic-Tile Area, and Musical Instruments.

You will quickly find out why the park is called “Turtle Grove” when you take a peek at the larger-than-life turtle statue that lives within the playground.

Turtle Grove Park is open daily from 8 am to 10 pm.

The park is in the heart of downtown, putting you in close proximity to other great attractions such as the Flint Riverquarium and The Ray Charles Memorial.

Turtle Grove Park is at 112 N Front St, Albany, GA 31701.

18- Go Camping at MCLB Albany RV Park

The MCLB Albany RV Park is a great place to stay if you plan on traveling in your recreational vehicle.

Located on the Marine Corps Logistics Base (MCLB) Albany, the RV park provides a peaceful place to rest your head with plenty of amenities such as full hook-ups, bathrooms, showers, and laundry services.

There are 28 RV Lots to choose from, which can be reserved up to 90 days in advance.

The MCLB Albany RV Park is on the outskirts of downtown Albany, providing a calm escape from the city.

MCLB Albany RV Park is at 9203 Williams Blvd, Albany, GA 31705.

19- See A Feature Film On The Big Screen At amC CLASSIC Albany 16

The amC CLASSIC Albany 16 is a standard movie theater in Albany.

If you are looking to beat the heat, this place offers the perfect opportunity to watch a feature film and enjoy a few hours indoors.

The Cineplex plays first-run films, opera productions, and sports events.

The best way to decide what to see is to check the calendar for a list of shows and showtimes.

Simply book your ticket online or walk up to the ticket counter.

amC CLASSIC Albany 16 is at 2823 Nottingham Way, Albany, GA 31707.

20- Test Your Aim At Craft Axe Throwing

Craft Axe Throwing in Albany is a thrilling experience influenced by the growing trend of social axe throwing.

Have you ever wanted to pretend you’re a real-life lumberjack? Well, here’s your chance.

Craft Axe Throwing provides a safe space with throwing lanes and knowledgeable guides to ensure fun and safety.

Craft Axe Throwing has a large selection of craft beer, wine, and other drinks.

The fun spot also allows you to bring your own food if you want to get takeout from a nearby restaurant.

Craft Axe Throwing is closed on Monday and Tuesday, but open each night from Wednesday through Sunday.

Craft Axe Throwing – Albany is at 2302 N Slappey Blvd, Albany.