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.
That really is so gorgeous! tips for fresh food
I just would like to say that I worked here and I think their food is excellent. Good choice with the calimari. So good. But always go with whatever you think your favorite wine will be unless the server absolutely convinces you otherwise. They do run specials on certain top notch wines at bargain prices on weekends usually, which may be what the server was trying to introduce you to. As for the “signature” dish. Definitely not the wahoo which can be deceiving since it shares its name with the restaurant. The signature dishes, I would say, are the Hawaiian Ahi Tuna and the Scallop Picatta. Patrons could not say enough good things about both of these entrees. Or the new york strip is always a good option if you don’t like seafood. All of these run about 19-21 dollars. And although the waiter is supposed to say what the special costs, I have never seen a weekend special cost more than $22. Which is reasonable for the fresh, quality food that you get for the price….. Anyway, I just had to put my two cents in because I worked here for 6 months and would gladly eat there again anytime paying full price. Everything about the dining experience here is quality and I don’t know many waiters who would say that about a restaurant they’ve left. Give it a try. You won’t regret it. Definitely sit on the outside patio if it’s nice enough outside. If not, definitely sit in the garden room….. One more thing, always always let your waiter know if you’re not totally satisfied with your meal. They know that kitchen cooks each meal with care but sometimes things don’t go as expected and they want you to enjoy your meal as much as possible. So they will do their best to make sure you leave satisfied. Oh yeah, and definitely always try the desert special. They are always super fresh and delicious. Especially the coconut cake when it’s available. People ask about it all the time.
If you are in PC Beach again you should definitely try a little local hole in the wall called Hognose Snapper. The food is incredible and it is no doubt, one of the best places to eat on PC Beach. The chef is a CIA graduate who has every intention of making sure that there is something on the menu to please everyone. He makes yummy homemade rolls for all the sandwiches and they have delicious seafood, including Grouper Imperial and the best crab cakes you may ever put in your mouth. A huge 1/2 lb burger that you can barely get your mouth around and fried green tomatoes that are to die for. The chef hand cuts french fries and sweet pototo fries every day. I’ve been told, nothing in this place comes frozen from the back of a truck! It’s a super affordable menu with most items under $10. They also have daily specials and a cozy atmosphere that feels almost like being in someones dining room. If you don’t like tourist traps and want real value and great food, this is definitely a place you should try.