19 of the Best Things for Retirees to Do in Georgia in 2025

Georgia offers retirees a perfect blend of Southern charm, rich history, and modern amenities that make it an increasingly popular retirement destination. With its mild climate, affordable cost of living, and tax-friendly policies for seniors, the Peach State provides an ideal backdrop for your golden years. You’ll discover Georgia combines vibrant city life in places like Atlanta with peaceful small-town environments in areas such as Athens and other retirement-friendly communities.

From exploring stunning natural landscapes to immersing yourself in cultural attractions, Georgia presents countless opportunities for retirees seeking both relaxation and adventure. The state’s diverse regions offer everything from coastal escapes to mountain retreats, ensuring you’ll never run out of new experiences to enjoy. Whether you’re looking for outdoor activities, arts and entertainment, or simply a welcoming community to call home, Georgia has something special waiting for you.

19. Forsyth Park

Forsyth Park stands as a verdant oasis in the heart of Savannah, spanning 19 acres of meticulously maintained grounds. You’ll immediately notice the park’s iconic fountain, a historic centerpiece that draws photographers and romantics alike.

As a retiree, you can enjoy leisurely strolls along tree-lined paths shaded by majestic oak trees draped with Spanish moss. The park offers excellent recreational amenities including basketball courts, tennis courts, and athletic fields if you’re looking to stay active.

Pack a picnic lunch and find a quiet spot under the shade to watch local life unfold around you. The park regularly hosts community events, concerts, and a popular farmers market on Saturdays, giving you plenty of opportunities to engage with the local community.

The park’s convenient location in Savannah’s historic district makes it an ideal starting point for exploring the surrounding area. You can easily walk to nearby historic sites, charming cafes, and local shops after enjoying your time in this beautiful green space.

Rating: 4.8 (18018 reviews)
Location: Savannah, GA 31401, United States
Contact: +1 912-351-3841
Website: Visit Website

18. Andersonville National Historic Site

As a retiree seeking meaningful historical experiences in Georgia, Andersonville National Historic Site offers a profound opportunity to connect with American history. This solemn site preserves the location of Camp Sumter, one of the largest Confederate military prisons during the Civil War.

The National Prisoner of War Museum at the entrance provides a moving educational experience about the sacrifices of American prisoners of war throughout history. You’ll find exhibits that tell personal stories of courage and survival across multiple conflicts.

Andersonville National Cemetery, also on the grounds, serves as an active military cemetery and final resting place for nearly 13,000 Union soldiers who died in captivity. Walking among the headstones offers a powerful reminder of the human cost of war.

You can explore the site through self-guided tours, allowing you to move at your own pace while reflecting on this important chapter in American history. The park’s peaceful setting in southwest Georgia provides a contemplative atmosphere for visitors.

Rating: 4.8 (2294 reviews)
Location: 760 POW Rd, Andersonville, GA 31711, United States
Contact: +1 229-924-0343
Website: Visit Website

17. Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park

Step back in time at Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park, a remarkable site showcasing over 12,000 years of continuous human habitation. As you explore this historic treasure in Macon, you’ll discover ancient ceremonial earth mounds built by the Mississippian culture around 900 CE.

The park offers a fascinating glimpse into prehistoric American Indian cultures that once thrived in this region. You can walk among the well-preserved mounds that were constructed for elite members of society, connecting with a rich heritage that predates European settlement by thousands of years.

The on-site museum displays an impressive collection of artifacts that help tell the story of the various indigenous peoples who called this land home. From the Paleo-Indian Period when early inhabitants hunted Ice Age mammals to the more recent cultural developments, every visit provides new insights into America’s indigenous history.

This peaceful historical park offers retirees a perfect blend of outdoor activity and cultural enrichment, with easy walking paths and extraordinary archaeological significance that makes for a meaningful day trip.

Rating: 4.8 (2437 reviews)
Location: 1207 Emery Hwy, Macon, GA 31217, United States
Contact: +1 478-752-8257
Website: Visit Website

16. Coastal Georgia Botanical Gardens at the Historic Bamboo Farm

The Coastal Georgia Botanical Gardens offers a peaceful retreat for retirees looking to connect with nature. This 51-acre horticultural attraction in Savannah showcases diverse plant collections and beautifully designed ornamental gardens that change with the seasons.

You’ll enjoy strolling through the various themed areas, including the historic bamboo groves that give the garden its name. The tranquil setting makes it an ideal spot to spend a relaxing morning or afternoon, taking in the sights and scents of carefully cultivated plant displays.

For the more active retiree, the garden offers pick-your-own berry fields where you can harvest fresh seasonal fruits. As a living classroom, the gardens also host educational programs throughout the year, giving you opportunities to expand your knowledge of plants and gardening techniques.

The gardens serve as a top Savannah attraction, welcoming over 100,000 visitors annually. Whether you’re seeking a quiet place for reflection or want to participate in seasonal events, this botanical treasure provides a refreshing escape from everyday routines.

Rating: 4.5 (892 reviews)
Location: 2 Canebrake Rd, Savannah, GA 31419, United States
Contact: +1 912-921-5460
Website: Visit Website

15. Historic Square

Step back in time at Historic Square, a charming collection of authentic 18th and 19th-century buildings nestled within Stone Mountain Park. This attraction offers you a glimpse into Georgia’s past with period furnishings and décor that showcase how people lived centuries ago.

As a retiree, you’ll appreciate the peaceful atmosphere as you wander through these historical structures at your own pace. The farmyard adds another layer of authenticity to your experience, making it easy to imagine life in early Georgia.

During special holidays like the Fourth of July, your visit can be enhanced with spectacular fireworks and drone light shows. Stone Mountain Park has been voted the best place in Atlanta to enjoy fireworks during Independence Day celebrations by Atlanta Journal-Constitution readers.

The Historic Square is part of Stone Mountain Park’s 3,200 acres of natural beauty, just minutes from downtown Atlanta. You can easily combine your history exploration with other recreational activities or seasonal attractions offered throughout the park.

Rating: 4.6 (312 reviews)
Location: John B Gordon Dr, Stone Mountain, GA 30087, United States
Contact: +1 800-401-2407
Website: Visit Website

14. Botanic Garden at Georgia Southern University

The Botanic Garden at Georgia Southern University offers a peaceful retreat for retirees seeking natural beauty and local history. You’ll find native Georgia trees and plants thriving across the property, connected by serene wooded walking paths that are perfect for leisurely strolls.

This garden has a rich heritage dating back to 1916 when Daniel and Catharine Bland met at what was then the First District Agricultural and Mechanical School. Their model farm has transformed into this stunning botanical haven that preserves the agricultural history of Georgia’s southeastern coastal plain.

As you explore, you’ll discover hands-on exhibits that make learning about local flora engaging and accessible. Mr. Dan Bland was a self-taught naturalist, and his passion for regional plants is reflected throughout the garden’s thoughtful design and diverse plant collections.

For retirees interested in horticulture, history, or simply enjoying beautiful outdoor spaces, this garden provides a perfect blend of education and tranquility. You can witness seasonal changes throughout the year as different plants come into bloom against the backdrop of classic southern landscape elements.

Rating: 4.7 (362 reviews)
Location: 1503 Bland Ave, Statesboro, GA 30458, United States
Contact: +1 912-478-1149
Website: Visit Website

13. Georgia International Plaza

Georgia International Plaza offers retirees a peaceful urban oasis in the heart of Atlanta. This unique 6-acre park sits atop a parking deck, providing an elevated green space where you can escape the city’s hustle and bustle while still enjoying spectacular skyline views.

The plaza features several decorative towers that create an interesting architectural landscape. You’ll also find a striking gymnast sculpture that serves as a reminder of Atlanta’s Olympic legacy. These artistic elements make the plaza a perfect spot for photography enthusiasts.

Walking paths wind through the space, allowing for gentle exercise as you explore the various features of the plaza. Benches are strategically placed throughout, providing comfortable spots where you can rest and watch the world go by or enjoy a good book in the sunshine.

The plaza’s central location makes it an ideal starting point for a day of exploring downtown Atlanta. You can easily combine your visit with other nearby attractions, creating a full day of sightseeing without extensive travel.

Rating: 4.5 (218 reviews)
Location: 1 State Farm Dr, Atlanta, GA 30303, United States

12. Jarrell Plantation State Historic Site

Step back in time at the remarkable Jarrell Plantation, a historic treasure that spans over 140 years of Georgia history. Dating back to 1847, this unique site offers you a genuine glimpse into plantation life through preserved nineteenth and early twentieth-century buildings.

You’ll be fascinated by the authentic structures including the original heart pine house built by John Fitz Jarrell, who crafted many of the furnishings still on display today. The plantation evolved through generations, surviving the Civil War, disease outbreaks, and the transition from farming to forestry.

As you explore the grounds, you’ll discover how Dick Jarrell diversified the farm using steam power for various operations including a sawmill, cotton gin, and gristmill. The site beautifully illustrates the shift from an agricultural to an industrial economy in Middle Georgia.

Don’t miss the history trail and interpretive programs that bring the plantation’s past to life. You can also enjoy the picnic area after your self-guided tour through this living testament to Georgia’s rural heritage.

Rating: 4.6 (319 reviews)
Location: 711 Jarrell Plantation Rd, Juliette, GA 31046
Contact: +1 478-986-5172
Website: Visit Website

11. George L. Smith State Park

Nestled in south Georgia, George L. Smith State Park offers retirees a tranquil escape with its peaceful natural beauty and serene cypress-filled mill pond. The park’s centerpiece is the historic Parrish Mill complex, featuring a restored gristmill, sawmill, covered bridge, and dam originally built in 1880.

You can spend your days paddling through stands of cypress and tupelo trees draped with Spanish moss. The calm waters are perfect for spotting wildlife, including beaver dams, blue herons, white ibis, and various wading birds. Kayaks and canoes are available for rent if you don’t bring your own.

For those who prefer dry land, seven miles of hiking trails wind through the park, providing opportunities to spot gopher tortoises, Georgia’s state reptile. The park’s lakeside campsites and cozy cottages with gas fireplaces and screened porches make it an ideal spot for an extended stay.

The 412-acre lake has a 10 HP limit for boats, making it perfect for peaceful fishing excursions. The park’s conference center near the bridge is also a great venue for family reunions if you’re planning to gather with loved ones.

Rating: 4.7 (1248 reviews)
Location: Twin City, GA
Contact: +1 478-763-2759
Website: Visit Website

10. Amicalola Falls State Park

Nestled in the North Georgia Mountains, Amicalola Falls State Park offers retirees a breathtaking natural escape. The park’s crown jewel is its magnificent 729-foot waterfall, the third-highest cascading waterfall east of the Mississippi River, providing spectacular views that are well worth the visit.

You’ll find a variety of accommodation options to suit your preferences, from the comfortable Amicalola Falls Lodge with panoramic mountain views to cozy cabins, glamping sites, and traditional campgrounds. This flexibility makes it perfect for both day trips and extended stays to fully explore the park’s beauty.

Adventure awaits with activities tailored for all energy levels. You can challenge yourself on the hiking trails, participate in guided nature walks, or try exciting activities like zip lining across 20 lines, archery, and hatchet throwing. The park also offers educational programs featuring local wildlife, including fascinating Birds of Prey shows.

Don’t miss dining at the Cascades Restaurant, where you can enjoy traditional Southern cuisine while taking in sweeping views of the mountain valley. The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily, making it the perfect place to watch the sunrise over the mountains or enjoy a spectacular sunset.

Rating: 4.8 (13312 reviews)
Location: 418 Amicalola Falls State Park Rd, Dawsonville, GA 30534
Contact: +1 706-265-8888
Website: Visit Website

9. Piedmont National Wildlife Refuge

Nestled in central Georgia, Piedmont National Wildlife Refuge offers retirees a peaceful retreat into nature with its 35,000 acres of restored forest land. Established in 1939, this wildlife sanctuary demonstrates remarkable conservation success, transforming once-eroded lands into thriving ecosystems.

You can explore the refuge’s diverse habitats, including loblolly pine ridges and hardwood forests along creek bottoms. Clear streams and beaver ponds create ideal wetlands where you might spot migrating waterfowl and other wildlife. The refuge is also home to the endangered Red-cockaded woodpecker, making it a must-visit for bird enthusiasts.

For outdoor recreation, Piedmont offers excellent hiking trails, fishing opportunities, and seasonal hunting. The Visitor Center provides valuable information about the refuge’s history and wildlife management practices, including prescribed burning and forest management techniques that maintain optimal wildlife habitats.

Located between Macon and Forsyth, this tranquil destination is easily accessible and provides a perfect day trip for retirees looking to connect with nature and witness firsthand how conservation efforts can restore natural landscapes.

Rating: 4.7 (304 reviews)
Location: 718 Round Oak Juliette Rd, Hillsboro, GA 31038, United States
Contact: +1 478-986-5441
Website: Visit Website

8. Georgia Veterans State Park

Georgia Veterans State Park offers retirees a perfect blend of recreation, history, and natural beauty spread across 1,308 picturesque acres. Established in 1946 as a memorial to U.S. veterans, this park provides a meaningful destination where you can honor those who served while enjoying outdoor activities.

The park features four miles of nature trails for hiking and biking, an 18-hole championship golf course, and the serene Lake Blackshear for fishing, boating, and water recreation. You can rent pontoon boats from the Marina or enjoy a peaceful day fishing among the cypress trees that line the banks.

History enthusiasts will appreciate the Military Museum with its indoor exhibits and outdoor installations including a B-29A Superfortress, jets, tanks, and a helicopter. The historic SAM Shortline Excursion Train offers a unique scenic adventure through the park and surrounding areas, stopping at historically significant sites.

For overnight stays, you can choose from campgrounds with scenic lake and wooded views perfect for tent, trailer, or RV camping. Group shelters with pavilions and picnic areas make this an ideal location for family gatherings or reunions with friends.

Rating: 4.7 (1423 reviews)
Location: 2459 US-280 w, Cordele, GA 31015, United States
Contact: +1 229-276-2371
Website: Visit Website

7. Flint RiverQuarium

The Flint RiverQuarium in Albany offers retirees a fascinating glimpse into the aquatic world of Georgia’s Flint River ecosystem. With more than 160 different species and over 1,300 animals, this attraction provides an educational yet relaxing experience for visitors of all ages.

Don’t miss the impressive Blue Hole exhibit, which holds 175,000 gallons of water maintained at a constant 68 degrees to match natural conditions. The viewing window is an engineering marvel at eight inches thick to withstand the water pressure, allowing you to observe native fish in their habitat.

The weekend programming provides excellent opportunities to learn and engage with the exhibits. Between 10:30am and 3:30pm, you can enjoy aviary feedings, dive shows, tank talks, and animal chats led by knowledgeable staff.

Make sure to visit Moonshine, a rare albino alligator in the Spring Run Creek exhibit, and say hello to Big Al, the resident snapping turtle who weighs an impressive 126 pounds. The RiverQuarium is open daily from 10:00am to 5:00pm, making it easy to fit into your schedule.

Rating: 4.4 (1300 reviews)
Location: 101 Pine Ave, Albany, GA 31701
Contact: +1 229-639-2650
Website: Visit Website

6. Reed Bingham State Park

Nestled just six miles from I-75, Reed Bingham State Park offers retirees a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure in southern Georgia. The park’s crown jewel is its 375-acre lake where you can enjoy excellent fishing for bass, crappie, catfish, and bream.

Water enthusiasts will appreciate the boating and skiing opportunities, while those seeking a gentler pace can rent canoes or kayaks to explore the picturesque lake lined with fragrant water lilies and tupelo trees. The sand beach provides a wonderful spot to unwind after a day of activities.

Wildlife viewing is exceptional at Reed Bingham, with opportunities to spot gopher tortoises, yellow-bellied sliders, and even American alligators sunning along the lake’s edge. During winter months, you might witness nesting bald eagles or the impressive sight of thousands of vultures roosting in the trees.

The park boasts diverse ecosystems, with nearly 80% of the Coastal Plain’s plant community represented along the nature trail. For overnight stays, choose from 46 campsites with hookups, making it an ideal base for exploring this natural haven.

Rating: 4.7 (1847 reviews)
Location: 542 Reed Bingham Rd, Adel, GA 31620
Contact: +1 229-896-3551
Website: Visit Website

5. The Allman Brothers Band Museum at The Big House

Located in Macon, Georgia, The Allman Brothers Band Museum offers retirees a nostalgic journey through rock music history. Housed in the iconic “Big House” where band members lived from 1970 to 1973, this museum preserves the legacy of one of America’s most influential southern rock groups.

You’ll find an impressive collection of original instruments, personal belongings, handwritten lyrics, and rare photographs that tell the story of the legendary band. The rooms have been restored to look as they did when the musicians lived there, creating an intimate glimpse into their creative process and daily lives.

Music enthusiasts will appreciate seeing Duane Allman’s guitar collection, Berry Oakley’s bass, and the band’s original tour bus. The museum also features changing exhibits that explore different aspects of the band’s history and impact on American music.

For retirees with even a passing interest in classic rock, this museum provides a fascinating look at a pivotal era in music history. The staff is known for being exceptionally knowledgeable and passionate about sharing stories behind the artifacts.

Rating: 4.9 (1047 reviews)
Location: 2321 Vineville Ave, Macon, GA 31204, United States
Contact: +1 478-741-5551
Website: Visit Website

4. Old Fort Jackson

Step back in time at Old Fort Jackson, Georgia’s oldest standing brick fortification. Located right on the banks of the Savannah River, this National Historic Landmark offers a fascinating glimpse into America’s military past.

When you visit, you’ll be treated to daily historical weapons demonstrations, including exciting cannon firings that bring history to life. Historical interpreters dressed in period-appropriate military attire guide you through the fort’s rich history, making it an engaging experience for visitors of all ages.

The fort’s strategic location provides beautiful river views as you explore the casemate exhibits. These displays help you understand the fort’s significance in Savannah’s defense systems and the lives of those who served there throughout different military eras.

For retirees interested in American history, Old Fort Jackson offers an accessible way to connect with the past through interactive programs and educational presentations. The combination of historical significance and scenic riverside setting makes this a must-visit attraction during your time in Georgia.

Rating: 4.7 (2242 reviews)
Location: 1 Fort Jackson Rd, Savannah, GA 31404, United States
Contact: +1 912-232-3945
Website: Visit Website

3. Georgia State Railroad Museum

Step back in time at the Georgia State Railroad Museum in Savannah, where history comes alive through interactive experiences. This fascinating museum is housed in the former Central of Georgia Railway Repair Shops Complex, which holds the distinction of being the oldest railroad repair facility in the United States.

You can enjoy hands-on activities like operating a working handcar or exploring historic railcars on a self-guided tour. The museum offers guided train tours that provide deeper insights into railroad technology, industrial slavery, and segregation, making it an educational experience beyond just viewing old trains.

As you wander through the complex, you’ll witness active preservation work by museum staff who restore historic buildings, railcars, and machinery. The museum provides a perfect balance of entertainment and education, making it an ideal destination for retirees interested in American industrial history.

Weather can affect your visit as some sections are outdoors, so it’s wise to call ahead or check their Facebook page for updates before planning your trip.

Rating: 4.5 (1645 reviews)
Location: 655 Louisville Rd, Savannah, GA 31401, United States
Contact: +1 912-651-6823
Website: Visit Website

2. Hay House

Step back in time at Hay House, a stunning 19th-century mansion located in Macon, Georgia. This magnificent historical residence has earned National Historic Landmark status and is often referred to as one of Georgia’s most distinguished structures.

The grandeur of Hay House is immediately apparent as you explore its 24 principal rooms spanning over 18,000 square feet. You’ll be captivated by the marble statues, beautiful stained glass, ornate period furnishings, and paintings that showcase the opulence of a bygone era.

For retirees looking to immerse themselves in history and architecture, guided tours are available Wednesday through Sunday. Tours begin at 10:00 a.m. with the last tour starting at 3:00 p.m. Making reservations ahead of time is recommended to ensure you can experience this remarkable piece of Georgia heritage.

The Johnston-Felton-Hay House offers a perfect outing for those who appreciate historical preservation and elegant design. You’ll find yourself transported to another time as you wander through this architectural treasure that provides a glimpse into Georgia’s rich past.

Rating: 4.8 (469 reviews)
Location: 934 Georgia Ave, Macon, GA 31201, United States
Contact: +1 478-742-8155
Website: Visit Website

1. Cannonball House

Step back in time at the historic Cannonball House, a magnificent 1853 planter’s townhouse in Macon. Named for damage it sustained during the Civil War, this beautifully preserved home offers you a fascinating glimpse into Georgia’s antebellum and reconstruction eras.

Your visit includes a 45-minute guided tour of both the main house and the original two-story brick kitchen and servants’ quarters. Tours run every half-hour from Tuesday through Saturday, making it easy to fit into your retirement schedule.

History enthusiasts will appreciate the carefully curated exhibits reflecting Georgia’s rich heritage. The Cannonball House focuses on acquiring, conserving, and interpreting artifacts from important periods in the state’s history, presenting them in authentic and entertaining ways.

The property is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and operates as a non-profit organization. You might consider supporting their mission through membership, which helps ensure this historical treasure remains available for future generations to enjoy.

Rating: 4.7 (148 reviews)
Location: 856 Mulberry St, Macon, GA 31201
Contact: +1 478-745-5982
Website: Visit Website