Macon’s old, new attractions drawing national attention

Visit Macon says it's expecting more visitors than ever this year.

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) — Macon is experiencing a major business boom thanks to new developments in the area. The city has once again captured the attention of several national travel publications, including Travel and Leisure’s Top 50 Best Places to Travel in 2024, AARP’s Eight Affordable US Destinations for 2024 and Southern Living’s 12 Southern Trips We Can’t Wait to Plan.

One of the major attractions in Macon is the Ocmulgee Mounds, which Macon-Bibb is working to make into a national park. The efforts have generated a lot of excitement among locals and tourists.

In addition to the Ocmulgee Mounds, Macon has several new developments in the works. One of the newest attractions is the Rhythm and Rally Pickleball Complex, which draws sports enthusiasts from all over.

The Otis Redding Center for Arts is another new development, and for those who love outdoor concerts, the Macon Amphitheater will open in 2024, drawing regional and national acts.

According to David Aiello, the GM of Macon Centreplex, the new amphitheater is going to bring visitors from all over.

“We’ll pull some from Atlanta and Athens and Milledgeville, but we’re really targeting our marketing efforts down towards Valdosta, even into the Florida panhandle,” he said. “When you look at some of the size facilities that we compare with, there’s really nothing down in those areas for people to come see the types of shows that we’re going to be able to book.”

The influx of tourists is expected to create a big business boom in Macon. Visit Macon says it’s expecting more visitors than ever this year.