(Tours of Macon's historic areas are a popular activity for visitors)
Macon's wide streets and parks were the original vision of James Webb, the man appointed to survey the future site of the city back in 1832. In addition, the first owners of Macon's city lots were required to plant shade trees in the front along the street, an action that is visible today in the shady boulevards and avenues. Early industry in Macon revolved around cotton and the city's early economy was directly tied to the Ocmulgee River. The arrival of cotton boats, stagecoaches, and the railroad continued to keep the momentum of Macon's prosperity going forward.
The Macon Economic Development Commission (MEDC) has worked to build a commercial infrastructure that will support any business in the current economy. The three major industries in Macon are services, manufacturing, and retail, supported by a trained workforce of about 90,000 employees. In fact, the economy of Macon is the third largest in the state behind Atlanta and Augusta. Employers in Macon area are able to draw workers from a 25-county area, making Macon one of the most productive cities in the nation.
Okay, so business is good. What about interesting attractions and the usual amenities? If you are a fan of history you will have no trouble filling your days with all kinds of fascinating and interesting experiences. The Cannonball House & Museum was the only house in Macon struck by a cannonball during a Federal attack in 1864. Other area history is to be explored in the Woodruff House, housing some artifacts of the early cotton industry, and the Ocmulgee National Monument & Indian Mounds, featuring archaeological remains dating back 10,000 years. Science lovers will enjoy the Museum of Arts & Sciences, where visitors can experiment with various disciplines in a larger-than-life atmosphere. The entire family will enjoy one of many events and tours that celebrate the character of Macon. Perhaps the most widely know of these is the Cherry Blossom Festival, which showcases over 265,000 yoshino cherry trees in full bloom. This festival has been designated as a Top 100 Event in North America, and has gained worldwide attention. Also of interest are the Intown and Downtown Macon tours that highlight a few of the city's most delightful historic districts.
Various activities and facilities are provided for people seeking a bit of exercise during their visit (though walking to and from the city's attractions should be enough exercise). Various parks, golf courses, and recreation centers are available for nearly every sporting or leisure interest. In addition, Mercer University and Macon State College have athletic programs that residents often attend to cheer on their teams.
Several major shopping plaza and malls are to be found throughout the city, including the Colonial Mall Macon and the Payne Village Antique Mall. There are quite a few antique shops to be found...after all, this is certainly a city of antiquity with a rich history. For your dining pleasure, several of the popular chains may be found (Applebee's, Cracker Barrel, and Ruby Tuesday), but the most popular eateries for visitors are those which are uniquely Macon.
Macon is located in central Georgia, at the intersection of I-16 and I-75, and is 20 minutes south of the Oconee National Forest. Atlanta is about 75 miles to the northwest.
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