Explore Milledgeville: The First Lady of Georgia

Known as the First Lady of Georgia, Milledgeville was the charming state capital from 1804 to 1868, and boasts a rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty. From the antebellum architecture to the lush greenery and tranquil lakes, this city captivates visitors with its Southern charm.

Whether you're a history buff, outdoor enthusiast, or simply wanting some time off the water, Milledgeville has something special to offer and is only 25 minutes away from Heron’s Hideaway.

Let's dive into the sights, activities, and experiences that make Milledgeville a must-visit destination during your Lake Sinclair getaway.

Historic District

Founded in 1803 around a series of beautiful squares and wide streets, Milledgeville was designed to be the new capital of Georgia. Explore the historic downtown which is home to stunning antebellum architecture, charming boutiques, and quaint cafes. Many homes and structures survived the destruction of the Civil War, and a self-guided walking tour will take you past the beautiful architecture of over 40 Antebellum homes.

Pick up your tour guide at the Milledgeville Visitor Center, and see for yourself why Southern Living says Milledgeville is one of Georgia’s prettiest small towns.

Old Governor's Mansion

A National Historic Landmark and one of the finest examples of High Greek Revival architecture in the United States, this building served as the governor’s mansion from 1839 to 1868. The Mansion was restored to its original 1851 appearance after an extensive renovation in the early 2000s.

The Mansion is open for tours Tuesday- Saturday from 10:00 am - 4:00 pm and Sunday from 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm.

Andalusia Farm

Step into the world of acclaimed author Flannery O'Connor at Andalusia Farm, where she lived and wrote some of her most famous works. Take a guided tour of the farmstead, stroll through the lush gardens, and gain insight into O'Connor's life and literary legacy.

The museum is home to artifacts of the property from not only Flannery's time there but the entire lineage of the historic property. The farm is open Tuesday - Saturday, 10:00 am - 4:00 pm, and Sunday, 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm.

Lockerly Arboretum

Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature at Lockerly Arboretum, a 50-acre botanical garden featuring a diverse collection of native and exotic plants. Enjoy leisurely walks along scenic trails, admire blooming flowers, and marvel at the majestic oak trees that dot the landscape.

The arboretum's plant collection includes a 1-mile Nature Trail immersed in native woodland, the Pinetum, a certified Southeastern conifer reference garden, the Ann King Native Plant Garden with over 50 species of native shrubs and trees, the camellia garden, and a tropical greenhouse.

The grounds are free and open to the public Monday-Friday from 8:30 am - 4:30 pm and Saturdays from March - November from 10:00 am - 4:00 pm.

Central State Hospital Campus

Discover the fascinating history of Central State Hospital. Founded in 1842 as the Georgia State Lunatic, Idiot, and Epileptic Asylum, the hospital gained notoriety as the largest mental health institution in the world with over 12,000 patients, 6,000 employees, and more than 8,000 acres of land. Today, Central State Hospital serves over 200 existing patients on 2,000 acres of land.

Take a guided trolley tour to explore the historic buildings, learn about the institution's past, and gain insight into the evolution of mental health care in Georgia. For a peek inside, take a look at Atlanta Magazine's 2015 article on the hospital.

If you're into the paranormal, Central State Hospital is rumored to be one of the most haunted places in the country.

Cedar Lane Cemetery

Cedar Lane Cemetery is on the grounds of Central State Hospital, and has been carefully restored to honor the lives of those buried on the grounds. Wander through the peaceful grounds, where ancient oak trees provide shade and a sense of timeless serenity, and explore the well-preserved gravesites, many dating back to the 19th century, offering a glimpse into Milledgeville's past.

Memorial Hill Cemetery

Visit Memorial Hill Cemetery, the final resting place of notable figures such as Congressman Carl Vinson and Georgia Governor Herschel V. Johnson. Stroll through the serene grounds using the Self-Guided Walking Tour, admire the historic tombstones, and pay your respects to those who shaped Milledgeville's history.

St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church

Experience the architectural beauty and historical significance of St. Stephen's Episcopal Church, one of Milledgeville's oldest churches. During the Civil War, the church was occupied by the 107^th New York Infantry Regiment, and survived vandalism by the soldiers, and damage by a nearby explosion.

Visitors are welcome to attend a service or simply admire the stunning stained-glass windows and historic charm of this beloved landmark.

The Sallie Ellis Davis House

Step into a piece of African American history at the Sallie Ellis Davis House, a beautifully restored home steps from the Old Governor’s Mansion that tells the inspiring story of an influential educator and community leader.

Learn about Sallie Ellis Davis, a dedicated educator who made significant contributions to education and civil rights in Milledgeville during the early 20th century.

Explore the meticulously preserved rooms filled with period furnishings, photographs, and artifacts that offer a glimpse into Davis's life and the era she lived in.

Guided tours are offered Wednesdays and Fridays from 10am – 4pm, and the first and third weekends of the month with limited hours. Educational programs that highlight Davis's legacy and the broader context of African American history are also offered for school field trips.

Bartram Forest Trails

South of Milledgeville is the Bartram Forest, a sprawling nature preserve offering miles of hiking, biking, and equestrian trails. Embark on miles of maintained hiking trails to see natural wetlands, discover hidden waterfalls, and explore ancient rock formations in an erosion ravine with soil that is a remnant of the ancient shallow seas that covered Georgia 50 to 100 million years ago.

The three marked routes are a GREEN - beginner-friendly singletrack at 5.5 miles, BLUE - beginner and intermediate singletrack loop at 7.5 miles, and RED - singletrack and doubletrack loop at 10.3 miles.

Milledgeville offers an enchanting blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination during your stay at Heron's Hideaway on Lake Sinclair. From the meticulously preserved antebellum architecture to the serene landscapes of Lockerly Arboretum and the intriguing history of Central State Hospital, there is something for everyone in this charming Southern town.

Whether you're paddling on the lake, exploring historic landmarks, or simply relaxing at the cottage, your experience will be filled with memorable moments. We invite you to immerse yourself in all that Milledgeville and Lake Sinclair have to offer, creating a getaway that you'll cherish for years to come.

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