9 Free (or Cheap!) Things to Do Around Macon
You don’t need to spend big to have a good time in Macon. With its rich history, thriving arts scene, and gorgeous outdoor spaces, this city is full of budget-friendly ways to enjoy your day. Here are some of the best free – or nearly free – things to do in and around Macon.
1. Walk (or Roll) Through Coleman Hill
📍 Corner of Spring and College Streets
This peaceful hilltop park in the heart of the historic district has some of the best skyline views in town. Bring a picnic, watch the sunset, or roll down the hills like a kid again.
Cost: Free
Bonus: The cannons and monuments are a nod to Macon’s Civil War history.
2. Explore the Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park
📍 1207 Emery Hwy
This sacred Indigenous site is one of the most unique places in Georgia. Walk the trails, climb to the top of the Great Temple Mound, or step inside the reconstructed Earth Lodge.
Cost: Free
Bonus: Look out for wildlife—you might spot deer, turtles, or herons along the trails.
3. Take a Self-Guided Music History Tour
🎶 All over Macon
Macon’s musical legacy is legendary – from Little Richard to Otis Redding to the Allman Brothers. Walk by the Douglass Theatre, H&H Soul Food, and Capricorn Studios to connect with the city’s sonic roots.
Cost: Free
Bonus: Don’t miss the Otis Redding statue at Gateway Park, right by the river.
4. Visit the Tubman Museum on a First Saturday
📍 310 Cherry St
The Tubman Museum is one of the largest museums in the Southeast dedicated to African American art, history, and culture. While regular admission isn’t free, they often offer free entry on the first Saturday of each month.
Cost: Free on special days; otherwise $10
Bonus: The murals alone are worth the visit.
5. Attend a Free Concert or Movie Night at Carolyn Crayton Park
📍 Near the Macon Coliseum
Especially during warmer months and festivals, this riverside park hosts live music, food trucks, and outdoor movies.
Cost: Free (some events may charge for food)
Bonus: Great spot to bring kids or just relax by the water.
6. Tour Rose Hill Cemetery
Photo Credit: Rose Hill Preservation
📍 1071 Riverside Dr
It may sound morbid, but this historic cemetery is a peaceful and fascinating walk. It’s the final resting place of Allman Brothers legends Duane Allman and Berry Oakley, and it’s full of beautiful old headstones and moss-covered trees.
Cost: Free
Bonus: Bring your camera—this place is hauntingly beautiful.
7. Walk Along Mercer’s Campus + Tatnall Square Park
📍 1400 Coleman Ave
Mercer University’s campus is open to the public and has lovely paths, sculptures, and gardens. Across the street, Tatnall Square Park is perfect for a stroll, picnic, or a lazy afternoon under a shade tree.
Cost: Free
Bonus: Swing by Z Beans at Mercer Village for a budget-friendly iced coffee.
8. Window Shop & People-Watch Downtown
📍 Cherry, Second, and Mulberry Streets
Downtown Macon is full of energy and personality. Even if you’re not spending, it’s fun to wander, peek into art galleries, and maybe catch some live music drifting out of a bar or restaurant.
Cost: Free
Bonus: Look up—some of the city’s most beautiful architecture is above the storefronts.
9. Catch a Local Art Show or Exhibit
Photo Credit: Explore Georgia
📍 Macon Arts Alliance – 486 First St
This gallery features rotating exhibits from regional artists, and admission is free. You might even catch an opening night reception with wine and light bites.
Cost: Free
Bonus: Support local art—without spending a dime (unless you want to!)
If you’d like to learn more about all of the amazing activities that Macon has to offer, feel free to reach out to me at 470-621-5065 or send me an email at lynsey.free@gmail.com!
