Young college energy and slow southern vibes collide in the city of Statesboro, Georgia. Located in the southeast portion of the state, it’s a growing city that continues to surprise tourists with its hidden treasures of things to do. On the surface, Statesboro is best known for the home to Georgia Southern University, but it’s so much more than a college town.
Founded in 1803 by cotton farmers, Statesboro, Georgia, played pivotal parts in the Civil War. The city’s rich history and the growth of Georgia Southern (originally a college started in 1906), adds to the diversity found today. The small-town atmosphere features charming boutiques and farm to table restaurants, historic buildings, and plenty of activities to keep families entertained.
A quick drive from Savannah and only 176 miles from Atlanta, Statesboro is a great weekend getaway. Come for the southern traditions and stay for fun – there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
13 Small-Town Things To Do In Statesboro Georgia For Families
One of my favorite things about visiting college cities is seeing how much the schools give back to the community. There’s always attractions, supported by the schools, that are open for the community to enjoy. There’s a beautiful cross-pollination between the school and the community, which only benefits visitors.
Find things to do in Statesboro that are backed by the college, historic attractions that have wowed for years and new attractions opened by locals.
Botanic Garden At Georgia Southern
Discover an early twentieth century farmstead that’s surrounded by 11 acres of lush garden areas. Walk winding paths, stop for meditation and check out photo opportunities as you take in the native plant life – including 20 of Georgia’s protected plant species.
There’s also an interactive children’s garden, where kids can play and learn. Since 1993, children have enjoyed planting, growing, and eating vegetables at the Garden.Salsa gardens, soup gardens and pizza gardens are just a few ways that the Botanic Garden At Georgia Southern teaches youth about farm to table sustainability.
Statesboro Main Street Farmers Market
Open 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m., every Saturday, April through November,the Statesboro Main Street Farmers Market offers a beautiful bounty of fresh produce and hand-made goods. The farmers market features fresh from the farm produce, as well as meat and eggs straight from area family farms.They also incorporate live music and seasonal unique finds that you can only find in Statesboro.
Boro Family Waterpark & Aquatic Center
Beat the Georgia heat and splash around at the Boro Family Waterpark & Aquatic Center. The waterpark features a wave pool, exhilarating slides, a relaxing lazy river and Georgia’s only dual Flow Rider. Plus, there are tot slides, specifically designed for kids under 48″ and a pool play area – an interactive water fort – that has zero-entry for the younger kids.
Make a day out of it by spending the afternoon under a rented cabana and nosh on goodies from the onsite concessions. A limited supply of life jackets are provided by the water park, but guests are encouraged to bring Coast Guard approved life jackets for those that need it.
Center For Wildlife Education
Environmental education is at the heart of the Center for Wildlife Education. They strive to provide learning opportunities for guests through up-close animal encounters. Supported by Georgia Southern University, all species of native Georgia fauna are within the scope of the Center’s endeavors.
For an even more individual experience, sign up for a guided tour (offered only on the weekdays) for an up close experience with alligators, turtles, snakes and more. The guided tours are $5 per person (with a minimum of 10 people) or pay a $50 minimum for less than a party of 10.
Georgia Southern Museum
Discover exhibits that bring the natural and cultural Georgia plains history to life. The Georgia Southern Museum is home to six exhibits (with one that changes seasonally) and offers exciting fossils that kids will love.
Come face to face with with a mosasaur,Tylosaurus proriger (a 78 million-year-old, 26 foot-long marine reptile) andGeorgiacetus vogtlensis (a 41 million-year-old whale, the most primitive whale fossil discovered in North America).
Young visitors can “be a paleontologist” and explore the mosasaur inside and out. There’s also group tours targeted to specific age groups of children. Admission is only $4 and children under the age of 3 are free!
Boro Snow
Head to Boro Snow for a delicious way to beat the heat. Only open seasonally, Boro Snow sells fun flavors of shaved ice treats! From blue raspberry to green apple, there’s tons of fun flavors (and toppings) to pick from. Ask about secret menu items that only locals know about!
The Clubhouse
Rainy days aren’t boring when you head to The Clubhouse that has 42,000 square feet of fun (in addition to 38 acres of outdoor fun). Enjoy the luxury bowling lanes, laser tag and classic arcade games. The Clubhouse also doubles as a family-friendly restaurant, ensuring you’re well fueled for all of the thrills.
Music Memories Museum
Ok, technically the Music Memories Museum has a Swainsboro address, but it’s a quick drive from Statesboro – and worth it for the free admission! The museum is home to personal artifacts that were once known to the biggest names in the music industry. As an added bonus, the Music Memories Museum is located inside of the Main Street Market Antique Mall, if you want to add a bit of shopping to your outing.
Marshall’s Farm
U-Pick figs, blueberries and grapes are just a few of the seasonal offerings at Marshall’s Farm. Check the Marshall’s Farm Facebook page for up-to-date information about what crops are available for picking.
Eagle Creek Brewing Company
Fun fact: Statesboro is home to the only brewery between Savannah and Macon. Eagle Creek Brewing Company is open to the public and brews IPA’s and pale ales. Plus, the they offers a full menu (including a kids menu) to pair with the fresh brews. Check the event calendar for live music and trivia nights.
Georgia Southern Football Game in Statesboro
Last, but certainly not least, you’ve got to catch a Georgia Southern Football Game! GSU plays in the Sun Belt Conference and the fans are very passionate about their team. The Eagle Nation is built on the school’s rich traditions, soaring on the cheers of students, alumni and loyal fans who shout “Georgia…” as the stadium roars with excitement. Watching a live game is a Statesboro, Georgia must-do! Buy Georgia Southern football tickets online.
Despite Statesboro, Georgia being a small town, there’s so many hidden treasures just waiting for guests. Whether you’re planning a day trip around a football game or visiting for the weekend, Statesboro will surely welcome your family with southern comfort.
Ready to plan your Statesboro getaway? Follow Visit Statesboro on social media:
