When it comes to the impact on American music, the small town of Macon, Georgia, can hang with the best of them. Located less than two hours from Atlanta, Macon is the birthplace of Little Richard and Otis Redding, two titans of rock ‘n’ roll and soul music.
A sweet melody or a heavy bass is always within earshot, whether you’re touring a Native American ceremonial ground, sipping on local craft beer, or cheering on the Macon Bacon. Here’s our list of the best things to do in Macon, Georgia.
Groove to the greats at Capricorn Records
Macon local Phil Walden managed Otis Redding and Percy Sledge before founding Capricorn Records to rival studios like Stax Records in Memphis and Muscle Shoals Sound Studio in Alabama.
Walden founded Capricorn Records in the 1960s with Jerry Wexler and Frank Fenter. After years of success, the company suffered personal and financial setbacks and eventually shut down in 1980. However, in 2019, Mercer University restored Capricorn Records as a museum and music incubator.
Phil’s legacy, along with that of his younger brother Alan, who managed Lynyrd Skynyrd, is celebrated through various tours visiting landmarks related to the city’s musical history.
Head to the homes of Little Richard and Otis Redding
Macon is the home of royalty. Otis Redding, known as the “King of Soul,” and Little Richard, the “King of Rock and Roll,” were both born and raised in the city before making it big.
Little Richard grew up in the Pleasant Hill neighborhood until his hit song “Tutti Frutti” propelled him to stardom. His home was saved from demolition in 2016 and has been restored, now open for tours by appointment.
Otis Redding lived in Macon until he tragically died in a plane crash in 1967. His family still resides in town and honors his legacy with a downtown storefront and museum.
Pay your respects to The Allman Brothers Band
The Allman Brothers Band may have begun their career in Jacksonville, Florida, but they are forever tied to Macon. It’s where the band hit it big and where most of the members lived and died.
The group shared a Tudor home in the Vinewood neighborhood, which is now the Allman Brothers Band Museum filled with concert posters, instruments, and memorabilia.
Back when the Allman Brothers Band were starting out, local restaurant owners Inez Hill and Louise Hudson fed the band at H&H Restaurant, known for its mouth-watering fried chicken. This iconic dining spot even recently unveiled a mural depicting the band with Inez and Louise.
Following the tragic motorcycle accidents that claimed the lives of Duane Allman and Berry Oakley, they were buried at Rose Hill Cemetery, not far from the grave of Gregg Allman.
Explore even more music history and venues
Capricorn Studios isn’t the only spot to delve into Macon’s expansive musical history. Built in 1904, the Grand Opera House hosted performers like illusionist Harry Houdini and musicians Hank Williams and the Allman Brothers Band.
During the Segregation era, the Douglass Theatre showcased top Black musical acts, featuring legends like Duke Ellington and Ma Rainey. Today, it hosts events promoting arts from Historic Black Colleges and Universities.
Tour Macon’s Antebellum homes
Macon lies along Georgia’s Antebellum Trail, a self-guided route between towns that escaped Sherman’s notorious March to the Sea during the Civil War. Many of these magnificent homes have been converted into museums.
One of the most popular is Hay House, an 1859 Italian Renaissance Revival gem in Macon. The home includes a double parlor for entertaining guests and a cupola that offers picturesque views of the city.
Cheer on the Macon Bacon
After a 2017 fan contest, Macon’s new minor league baseball team was officially named the Macon Bacon. This Coastal Plains League team plays at historic Luther Williams Field, a venue featured in the Jackie Robinson biopic 42.
The team’s merchandise is a popular souvenir, and its mascot, Kevin, is named in honor of Kevin Bacon.
Sip on local suds at the Macon Beer Company
Macon’s breweries follow the rich tradition of craft beer that dates back to the 1800s, with the Macon Beer Company being the first brewery to open after Prohibition ended this legacy.
They serve delightful burgers and inventive beers inspired by local culture, such as Macon Love, featuring cherry blossoms and a cherry wine flavor profile.
Learn about the area’s original residents at the Ocmulgee Mounds National Historic Park
This sacred American Indian site at Ocmulgee Mounds National Historic Park dates back over 17,000 years and features seven ceremonial mounds. Park rangers conduct tours of the “Earth Lodge,” a council chamber over 1000 years old.
The nation’s largest archeological dig occurred here, revealing over 2000 artifacts, including arrowheads, pottery, and jewelry. One of the best outdoor activities in Macon is exploring the park’s eight miles of hiking trails.
Spend a night at the historic Hotel Forty Five
The Hotel Forty Five is Macon’s first boutique hotel, situated in the historic district and named after the 45-degree angle of the surrounding streets. Guests enjoy a coffee shop, restaurant, and rooftop bar overlooking the city.
Catch live music at Grant’s Lounge
Macon features live musical performances throughout the town, but Grant’s Lounge stands out as a popular venue. Open since 1971, it hosted early performances by the Allman Brothers Band and remains a hub for local musicians.
Wander through Macon’s museums
The heart of Macon houses the Georgia Sports Hall of Fame, showcasing artifacts from Georgia’s college teams and major events like the 1996 Atlanta Olympics.
Across the street, the Tubman Museum highlights Black excellence with exhibitions featuring historic figures and modern artists.
Dine at The Rookery
With plenty of dining options in Macon, The Rookery stands out as a must-visit. Since 1976, this casual restaurant has honored Georgia legends with a menu featuring unique dishes inspired by local music history.
