Did you know there’s an amazing Cherry Blossom festival in the south? How have I lived in Georgia for so long an not known about this? After all, Macon (the largest cherry blossom festival in the south) is only a short drive from Atlanta.
I was able to drive down to Macon, explore the sites and return to Atlanta with a tank of gas (yes, Macon is that close). Though I only spent two days in Macon, I loved that many of the spots were not too far and traffic was easy. Checking in to my bed and breakfast, the 1842 Inn, I was checked in and unpacked in my room in no time. But I didn’t waste much time before heading out to explore one of the most beautiful homes (also a B&B), the Burke Mansion.
The Burke Mansion in Macon is a beautiful B&B
I instantly fell in love with the Burke Mansion and have earmarked it for return visit to Macon. Luckily I headed back to the 1842 Inn for their signature afternoon offering: snacks and Mint Juleps! Though dinner was only a mile away it was nice not to have to walk there and could just ride back in forth in comfort.
After a restful night’s sleep, I was up early to see the cherry blossoms of Macon! Though I could see plenty right on the street where my B&B was, I was certainly apt to see more. The sweet staff at the 1842 Inn in Macon were so kind to me during my stay, they provided me map of a drive I could take to see the blossoms. So, I certainly got some spectacular views.
Take the scenic drive around Macon and spot numerous trees blossoming during the cherry blossom festival!
While I loved the peace and quiet driving around and seeing the gorgeous blooms, I also knew that the heart of the festival was downtown so after my driving tour, I headed to downtown Macon where the action was. I was so glad I did because I saw some really interesting sights. And, you may not know this, but Macon dyes the water in their fountains PINK in honor of the festival. And you may spot several pink poodles around town (it’s like the cherry blossom mascot)!
Macon dyes there fountain water pink in honor of the Cherry Blossom Festival!
After all this, I was starting to get a bit hungry, so I headed to the Ocmulgee Brewpub for a brew and one of the best damn burgers I’ve ever had. Well, actually I had a beer flight, I mean might as well try a sampling but I really did love the Cherry Blossom pilsner they were doing as a special to celebrate!
The Ocmulgee brewpub in Macon does a special beer in honor of the cherry blossom festival!
Oh and I was so happy when I stumbled upon this street art (above right). All around Macon you can spot incredible street art, but as an elephant lover this one really spoke to me (they are my spirit animal)! With a full day exploring, I had an early evening and took advantage of the goodies provided by my hotel in Macon! Quiches, shrimp cocktail, charcuterie, oh my! That’s enough to keep a girl happy.
You’re missing out on one of the coolest architectural wonders if you don’t go visit the Hay House in Macon!
Again, I was up bright and early on my last day to check out one of the coolest homes in Macon: The Hay House (see above). The home has 7 different levels and for when it was built really had the most modern amenities including an indoor kitchen (a big deal in the 1800s), curved pocket doors and a special air flow system.
If you are looking for an amazing place to stay when you visit Macon, look no further than the 1842 Inn.
