26 Best & Fun Things To Do In Albany, GA
Are you planning a trip to Albany, Georgia, and looking for fun activities to make your trip memorable? Look no further! You’re at the right place, as we’ll be exploring the 26 best and fun things to do in Albany, GA, making your trip unique.
Nestled in the heart of Southwest Georgia, Albany is more than just a city; it’s a vibrant tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty waiting to be explored. Located on the banks of the Flint River in Dougherty County, Albany is the eighth-largest city in Georgia.
This beautiful destination offers several fun attractions and experiences, ensuring that you maximize your trip. Visit the Flint RiverQuarium, the Thronateeska Heritage Center, the Ray Charles Plaza, Chehaw Park, and other unique attractions the city offers.
26 Best & Fun Things To Do In Albany, GA (2024)
1. Flint RiverQuarium
The Flint RiverQuarium is one of the top attractions in Albany, Georgia, for families. Located on the banks of the Flint River, this one-of-a-kind adventure offers a unique perspective on the native species that reside in the river’s watershed.
Spanning 54,000 square feet, this aquarium features a unique blue-hole spring and more than 100 mysterious species, showcasing the area’s freshwater ecosystem. The 175,000-gallon, 22-foot-deep, open-air RiverQuarium Blue Hole is filled with the fish, reptiles, and plants in the Flint River’s ecosystem.
You can start your Albany adventure by marveling at the variety of colorful fish, the playful otters, and the awe-inspiring alligators.
Each exhibit is thoughtfully designed, offering an educational perspective on conservation efforts, the importance of freshwater systems, and the challenges local species face due to environmental changes.
Address:Â 101 Pine Ave, Albany, GA 31701, United States
2. Ray Charles Plaza
One of the free things to do in Albany is to visit the Ray Charles Plaza. Located on Front Street, the Ray Charles Plaza is one of the best places to visit in Albany, Georgia. The Plaza is a tribute to Ray Charles’ monumental contributions to music.
Holding court in the center of the Plaza is an iconic, life-sized bronze statue of the artist seated at a Baby Grand piano, which rests on a rotating pedestal that comes alive with a rotating light show at night.
Speakers around the plaza play his classics, making it a serene spot for reflection and admiration. The interactive water fountains, especially popular among kids, display notes and lyrics from Ray’s songs. History and music enthusiasts will appreciate the information panels detailing his journey from Albany to global stardom.
Address:Â 916 Front St. Albany, GA 31701, United States
3. Chehaw Park and Zoo
One fun thing to do with kids in Albany, GA, is to explore Chehaw Park and Zoo. Spreading over 800 acres, this park offers pristine conservation land and a wild animal park dedicated to education.
The park features a petting zoo, a train, nature trails, a disc golf course, BMX tracks for bike racing, and one of Georgia’s largest play parks for kids.
As you stroll through the trails, you’ll come across various habitats, each meticulously curated to house native and exotic animals. Among the popular attractions at the park is the African Veldt Ride, which offers visitors a safari-like experience right in the heart of Georgia.
If you’re visiting in the spring, you can also attend seasonal events, like the Native American Festival, which further accentuate the park’s commitment to cultural education and community involvement.
Address:Â 105 Chehaw Park Rd, Albany, GA 31701, United States
4. Thronateeska Heritage Center
One of the must-visit attractions in Albany, GA, is the Thronateeska Heritage Center. Located at Heritage Plaza, Thronateeska captures the essence of Albany’s rich past.
Thronateeska Heritage Center comprises the Wetherbee Planetarium, a 40′ full dome HD planetarium system, and the History and Science Museum with interactive exhibits, including a historic railway exhibit with a model train display, ensuring varied visitor experiences.
The meticulously restored train cars, including the 1911 wood caboose and 1939 mail car, are particular highlights, providing a tangible link to a bygone era. The science museum, with its interactive exhibits, appeals to curious minds of both children and adults.
Address:Â 100 W Roosevelt Ave, Albany, GA 31701, United States
5. Radium Springs Gardens
One of the unique things to do in Albany is to visit Radium Springs Gardens, one of Georgia’s seven natural wonders. The Radium Springs Gardens pump 70,000 gallons of clear, 68-degree water per minute from an underground cave.
The water is crystal clear, and fish and turtles can be seen swimming near the cave hole. The garden, a remnant of the historic Radium Springs Casino, can still be seen. The park features a restored terrace, new sidewalks, a casino garden, and gazebos.
As you wander the trails, you’ll come across the serene atmosphere and the beautiful views of Radium Springs and other historic structures. Local legends suggest that the springs have healing properties, drawing many seeking solace and rejuvenation.
Address: 2501 Radium Springs Rd., Albany, GA 31705, United States
6. Albany Museum of Art
One of the best things to do in Albany, Georgia, is to immerse yourself in history at the Albany Museum of Art. Established in 1964, this museum has grown exponentially over the years.
The museum has multiple galleries and houses an impressive collection of European and American artworks, including 19th and 20th-century paintings, drawings, and sculptures.
It also has an impressive permanent collection, which includes one of the largest collections of sub-Saharan African art, like masks, pottery, baskets, and sculptures.
Seasonal exhibitions, educational programs, and interactive workshops ensure the museum remains a dynamic space for art enthusiasts and novices.
Address:Â 311 Meadowlark Dr, Albany, GA 31707, United States
7. Albany Symphony Orchestra
One of the best things to do in Albany, GA, at night is to catch a musical performance by the Albany Symphony Orchestra.
Held at the historic Albany Municipal Auditorium, the orchestra’s concerts offer a delightful blend of acoustics and aesthetics. Since its inception in 1964, the orchestra has carved a niche, enchanting audiences with a repertoire ranging from classical to contemporary.
The dedication of its maestros, the passion of its musicians, and the rapture of its performances make each concert a memorable experience.
If you’re visiting Albany between October and May, seeing a performance by Georgia’s only professional orchestra should be on your bucket list.
Address:Â 308 Flint Ave, Albany, GA 31701, United States
8. Quail Country Plantation
Hunting at Quail Country Plantation is like stepping back in time. Spanning over 3,500 acres, this beautiful plantation provides the best wildlife habitat in the South.
These sprawling estates, characterized by their pristine landscapes and historic mansions, encapsulate southern charm and elegance. A visit to one of these plantations offers insights into the time-honored traditions of quail hunting, a sport that has deep roots in Georgian culture.
As part of the unique things to do near Albany, Georgia, take a guided tour of this plantation and listen to the grand hunting expeditions and the southern way of life.
Address:Â 1134 Quail Country Rd, Arlington, GA 39813, United States
Exploring other attractions near Albany? Why not check out some fun things to do in Buford, Georgia and fun things to do in Roswell, Georgia?
9. Albany Civil Rights Institute
The Albany Civil Rights Institute is a museum and research center that transports visitors back to the heart of the Civil Rights Movement, focusing particularly on Albany’s significant contributions.
The institute includes interactive displays, poignant photographs, and personal testimonies combined to offer an authentic representation of the struggles and triumphs before and during the Civil Rights Movement.
The museum also serves as a center for ongoing academic research. It provides school tours, programs, and lectures featuring guest speakers and performers, ensuring that the message of unity, perseverance, and equality continues to resonate with newer generations.
Address:Â 326 W Whitney Ave, Albany, GA 31701, United States
10. Riverfront Park
One of the fun family things to do in Albany, GA, is to explore the Riverfront Park. Spanning over 6 acres along the Flint River, this beautiful park, with its meticulously manicured lawns, sculptures, and water features, is a visual delight.
The park features pavilion areas, a play fountain, a picnic area, Turtle Grove Play Park with Dino Dog and Tot Lot, a 1.5-mile Greenways Trail System with a 3-mile Riverwalk, the Horace King Overlook, and the Albany Welcome Center located in the Historic Bridge House.
At the park, you can enjoy picnicking, kayaking, paddle boating at the Flint River, or just relaxing on the beautiful lawn.
Address: 112 N. Front St., Albany, GA 31701, United States
11. Tift Park Community Market
One of the best things to do this weekend in Albany, GA, is to shop for fresh produce at the Tift Park Community Market. Held every Saturday, this park buzzes with activity as vendors set up stalls showcasing fresh produce, artisanal goods, and unique crafts.
From handcrafted jewelry to organic honey, the market is a treasure trove for those seeking authentic souvenirs. You can also enjoy live music performances and food trucks, which add to the vibrant atmosphere.
Address:Â N Jefferson St & 5th Ave, 1301 N Monroe St, Albany, GA 31701, United States
12. Turtle Grove Play Park
Exploring the Turtle Grove Play Park is one of the fun things to do in Albany, GA, with kids. An integral part of RiverFront Park, Turtle Grove Play Park is a haven for children.
Inspired by Albany’s natural and cultural heritage, the park features trains, historic landmarks, play equipment resembling native animals, a rock climbing wall, and many more.
The giant turtle sculpture, from which the park derives its name, is a favorite among kids. Safety surfaces, shaded areas, and picnic spots ensure parents can relax while their children play.
Address:Â 112 N Front St, Albany, GA 31701, United States
13. Andersonville National Historic Site
One of the many things to do near Albany is to take a short drive to the Andersonville National Historic Site, a solemn reminder of the Civil War’s Prisoner of War camp.
The site comprises three features: the National Prisoner of War Museum, the former Camp Sumter military prison site, and Andersonville National Cemetery.
The museum’s exhibits tell the story of prisoners of war using artifacts, visuals, text, and oral history interviews with former prisoners. The Andersonville National Cemetery contains the graves of nearly 13,000 Union prisoners of war who died at the prison site.
Take a tour of the historic site and listen to tales of the Civil War or military history.
Address:Â 760 POW Rd, Andersonville, GA 31711, United States
14. Theatre Albany
One of the fun things to do in Albany, GA, tonight is to catch a live performance at the Theatre Albany. Opened in 1927, this historic theater, with its ornate interiors and intimate seating, has been the epicenter of Albany’s performing arts scene for decades.
The Theatre Albany offers six major productions annually in its 314-seat main stage theater. From gripping dramas to delightful comedies, the theatre showcases local talent, providing a platform for artists and entertainers to captivate audiences.
Address: 514 Pine Ave. Albany, GA 31701, United States
15. Paul Eames Sports Complex
The Paul Eames Sports Complex is one of the best places to visit in Albany, Georgia, for sports enthusiasts. Built in 1993, this 3,000-seat capacity minor league baseball stadium has hosted several teams.
This facility covers over 66 acres and has baseball diamonds, batting cages, and spectator stands, making it a hub for local and regional sports events. Throughout the year, the complex reverberates with cheers as teams lock horns, and spectators revel in the games’ excitement.
Address:Â 1130 Ball Park Ln, Albany, GA 31705, United States
16. Race 2 Escape
Are you looking for fun things to do in Albay, GA, with friends and family? Then, experience an immersive, captivating and challenging adventure at Race 2 Escape, Albany’s premier escape game.
Established in 2017, this family-owned escape room offers an innovative and outstanding escape room experience. The experience challenges players to search for hidden clues, solve puzzles, and work together to escape within the time limit.
The rooms are all set in different themes, with three choices, making it a fantastic experience. Some escape rooms on offer include The Genius Test, Antigravity, and Hostage In Toyland.
Address: 2510 Archwood Drive, Albany, GA 31707, United States
17. Albany Mall
One of the romantic things to do in Albany, GA, for couples is to explore the Albany Mall. Opened in 1976, this mall offers one of the best shopping experiences in the southwest, where you can buy various items from clothes and books to electronics, shoes, and jewelry.
The shopping mall has over 871,956 square feet and has over 63 stores and restaurants. Some of the specialty stores and restaurants at the mall include JCPenny, Dillard’s, Old Navy, Books-A-Million, Bath & Body Works, Victoria’s Secret and many sensational specialty shops.
Apart from shopping, you can also have a test of some southwestern delicacies at the food court eateries, including Chick-fil-A, Cinnabon and Chuck E. Cheese.
Address:Â 2601 Dawson Rd c10, Albany, GA 31707, United States
18. Flint River Municipal Golf Course
Established in 1964, the Flint River Municipal Golf Course is an 18-hole golf championship course and one of Georgia’s finest golf and banquet facilities. This golf course is a pleasure for golfers of any skill level. The course is challenging yet provides a relaxing, picturesque view of the Flint River.
The golf course measures 6414 yards from the longest tees and has a slope rating 114 and a 69.4 USGA rating. It also features three sets of tees for different skill levels.
Sharpen your skill on our driving range or fine-tune your short game on the chipping and putting green at this golf course.
Address:Â 2000 McAdams Rd, Albany, GA 31705, United States
19. All American Fun Park
One of the fun family things to do in Albany, GA, is to spend hours at the All American Fun Park. This fun park is a paradise for kids and adults alike.
This entertainment complex features an 18-hole mini-golf course, arcade games, laser tag arenas, cosmic bowling, go-carts, and bumper boats. The entertainment center also features the largest game room in Southwest Georgia.
On your visit, you can enjoy numerous activities, ride the blaster boats, go-carts and virtual roller coasters. You can also attend special events and themed nights, adding to the allure and making it a must-visit for families and friends.
Address:Â 2608 N Slappey Blvd, Albany, GA 31701, United States
20. Legacy Park
One of the best places to have a family fun time in Albany, Georgia, is the Sherwood Baptist Church’s Legacy Park. This park is an 82-acre sports complex dedicated to outdoor activities.
The park features a children’s play area, sand volleyball courts, a fishing pond, baseball fields, softball fields, soccer/football fields, tennis courts, a covered pavilion, a grilling area, and walking trails. The park provides a safe and family-friendly environment for people of all ages.
As part of the free things to do in Albany, GA, with family, explore this park and enjoy numerous outdoor activities made available at the park.
Address:Â 2412 Lily Pond Rd, Albany, GA 31721, United States
21. Albany Strikers
Are you looking for fun things to do in Albany, GA, tonight? Then, head to the Albany Strikers. This entertainment center offers both locals and visitors interactive family fun.
Established in 1959, Albany Strikers has 24 lanes that cater to casual bowlers and serious league players. The facility also boasts several pool games.
Albany Strikers is an ideal destination for family fun. Apart from the fun games, you can enjoy their in-house restaurant and bar that serves delicious meals and refreshing drinks, making it a complete family entertainment package.
Address:Â 1200 W Broad Ave, Albany, GA 31707, United States
22. Craft Axe ThrowingÂ
For adults, one of the unique things to do in Albany, GA, is to experience the thrill of axe throwing at Craft Axe Throwing. This premier hatchet and tomahawk throwing destination provides an exciting and popular activity for adults.
The facility features 18 target lanes, ensuring ample space for throwers to enjoy their experience. The facility also offers cold craft brews and multiple TVs, ensuring a memorable experience.
Address:Â 2302 N Slappey Blvd, Albany, GA 31701, United States
23. Albany State University
Exploring the Albany State University campus is one of the free things to do in Albany, Georgia. Established in 1903, this historically black university is dedicated to providing education opportunities to African-American students.
The university is home to many state-of-the-art facilities and interesting research centers. You can sign up for a campus tour by Holley Ambassadors, which allows you to discover the university’s heritage and its focus on academic excellence.
Address: 504 College Drive, Albany, GA 31705, United States
24. Providence Canyon State Park
A short drive from Albany, hiking the Providence Canyon is one of the fun outdoor activities near Albany, GA. Often referred to as “Georgia’s Little Grand Canyon,” this popular attraction is considered one of the Seven Natural Wonders of Georgia.
The dramatic red and orange hues of the canyon walls, sculpted over millennia by erosion, contrast starkly with the lush greenery of the state park.
Visitors can enjoy views of the canyons from the rim trail, ensuring to stay behind fences and off the fragile canyon edge. Hikers exploring the deepest canyons will usually find a thin layer of water along the trail, indicating the water table below.
Address:Â 8930 Canyon Rd, Lumpkin, GA 31815, United States
25. Jimmy Carter National Historic Site
Located in Plains, Georgia, the Jimmy Carter National Historic Site represents a rural cultural landscape in the classic sense.
The Jimmy Carter Historic Site preserves the important sites and structures associated with Jimmy Carter, the 39th president of the United States. It provides for the interpretation of the presidency of Jimmy Carter and presents the history of a small rural Southern town.
These include the train depot, which served as his campaign headquarters during the 1976 election, his residence, school, and boyhood farm, where Carter was raised.
Take a tour of this site and learn about the life of Jimmy Carter and Rosalynn Carter through exhibits.
Address:Â 300 N Bond St, Plains, GA 31780, United States
26. AMC Classic Albany 16
One of the fun things to do in Albany, GA, tonight is to see your favorite movie at the AMC Classic Albany 16. The movie theater provides a memorable experience with its 16 auditoriums in Albany’s Summer Lane area.
The theater features exceptional amenities such as warm snacks at the concession stands, remote ticketing, closed captions, assisted listening devices and wheelchair access.
Check the event schedule for your favorite movie, sit back, relax, and enjoy yourself with some snacks and refreshments.
Address:Â 2823 Nottingham Way, Albany, GA 31707, United States
Plan Your Trip to Albany, GA
Albany, Georgia, is more than just a destination; it’s an experience. Its attractions, both natural and man-made, its stories, both old and new, and its people, warm and welcoming, come together to create a tapestry that is as diverse as it is beautiful.
Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural enrichment, this charming town promises memories that last a lifetime. We hope this guide is a comprehensive starting point for exploring this vibrant southwestern town.
Have a fun trip!
