Just 2.5 hours south of Atlanta is a cozy little town that sits atop a hill overlooking miles and miles of farmland. You don’t just pass through Americus, you come here on purpose.
From a historic hotel that resembles a castle, to one of the most beautiful, fully restored historic theaters, Americus boasts world renowned fame, with an unpretentious welcome. Book your weekend experience at the historic Windsor Hotel or the Americus Garden Inn, voted No. 1 B&B by Trip Advisor several years in a row. Enjoy luxurious surroundings as you sip a cocktail on the Windsor’s veranda overlooking the bustling downtown. As soon as you enter Downtown Americus, you know you have stepped back in time. There are more than 22 blocks of historic structures and 47 registered historic homes waiting for you to explore.
From one-of-a-kind boutiques to casual and upscale dining, Americus welcomes visitors with true southern hospitality. After you’ve shopped and sipped and savored your way through downtown, make sure to stop by the Americus Visitor Center and schedule one of several historic tours: The Haunted History Tour; an historic cemetery tour; a downtown architectural tour; or the African-American Heritage Tour.
Foodies will enjoy a mix of Mediterranean, fresh seafood, one of the best “dogs” ever bitten by man, plus the most popular Sunday southern brunches in southwest Georgia. Sample local wine and indulge in Wolf Creek Plantation’s famous wine slushies right in the heart of downtown, or take a distillery tour and sample Georgia’s oldest Bourbon, Rye, & Vodka at 13th Colony Distilleries.
The arts are prominent and an essential part of day-to-day life in Americus. Shop and view exquisite pieces of art created by local and internationally acclaimed artists at local galleries. Take a class at Art Hive Studio or the Americus Council for the Arts. Each year, the arts council sponsors various events, where local artists showcase their goods and give visitors and locals an opportunity to try their hand at a wide variety of arts and crafts.
Glassblowing is a key draw for many arts fans. Georgia Southwestern State University is the force behind this distinction. Hot Glass Academy and Mobile Glassblowing Studios provide year-round workshops and demonstrations for you to try your hand at this age-old craft. A local theater company, the Sumter Players, performs several times a year at the historic Rylander Theatre. The Rylander books several Broadway shows each year and is host to numerous recitals and community events.
Whether it is musical recitals, concerts, festivals or performances, visitors to Americus will have their senses awakened monthly as the arts are celebrated throughout the districts. Especially with April’s Hot Glass Craft Beer Festival and the Americus Music Fest on Oct. 21!
One of the main reasons people visit the small southern town is to visit the nearby home of former President and Nobel laureate Jimmy Carter in Plains. Everywhere you turn in Americus and Sumter County, you will see something that was influenced by the 39th president and his wife, former first lady Rosalynn Carter.
One of the main things you will notice when you roll into Georgia’s Sumter County is how quickly your pulse slows down and your breathing deepens. Rolling fields, pecan orchards, cotton for miles, and peanuts are the backbone of the area. For RVers, the Americus KOA boasts a beautiful space that includes an award-winning golf course.
The future of Americus is looking bright! Soon the Americus Civil Rights Center and Museum will be opening in what was once a hospital only for African-Americans. This museum will highlight the rise of some of the most prominent black business owners, as well as the struggles during the civil rights movement.
Another big addition is the Pearly Brown Amphitheater, which pays homage to a blind musician who was famous throughout the South and was the first African-American to appear at the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville. The future space will offer a dog park, a playground, rental facilities and a venue for large concerts and movies.
For more information and to book your next homegrown, world renowned experience, visit www.visitamericusga.com
