Blake Walsh

31 Best Things to Do in Brunswick, GA

  • Published 2022/11/03

Brunswick is a charismatic riverside city nestled among the picturesque marshes of Glenn County in Georgia.

It is a part of the Golden Isles and is blessed with captivating natural beauty.

It offers a diverse range of attractions, including serene rivers, mesmerizing lakes, vast verdant marshes, impressive art galleries, lively theatres, centuries-old trees, and so on.

There are vibrant festivals, mouth-watering seafood, the renowned Brunswick stew, a magnificent bridge, kaleidoscopic shrimp boats, numerous enchanting parks, aesthetically pleasing architecture, and plenty more.

Owing to its excellent location, Brunswick provides easy access to the neighboring islands that feature ancient forts, a historic battlefield, a photogenic lighthouse, Georgia’s first brewery, extraordinary beaches, and more.

There are also countless water opportunities, such as swimming, kayaking, fishing, shrimping, and canoeing.

Enjoy invigorating hikes and fun picnics along the Brunswick river, or explore the region’s wilderness by camping.

Here’s a list of the best things to do in Brunswick to jumpstart your planning!

Walk on Sidney Lanier Bridge

Sidney Lanier Bridge

PaulDaniel5010 / shutterstock.com

This magnificent bridge crosses the scenic Brunswick River.

It is named after a 19th-century regional author who wrote a poem about the picturesque marshes of Glynn County.

View of Sidney Lanier Bridge

Ercan Ekinci/ shutterstock.com

The original 1956 bridge was replaced with the current one in 2003.

An annual 5K health run is organized on this bridge every year in February, attracting myriads of visitors.

The bridge offers breathtaking views of the river and the surrounding cityscape.

View of Sidney Lanier Bridge

Douglas Hamilton / shutterstock.com

Celebrate Artistry at Art Downtown

As a production company, Art Downtown exhibits local and regional artists, authors, and actors at various venues across the city.

The company’s 2,600-square-foot principal facility caters to a theater and an art gallery.

It stands at Newcastle Street, which presents works by local and regional artists in a range of permanent and rotating exhibits.

In addition to lessons, talks, and workshops for both artists and visitors, the institution also conducts seasonal live shows and annual outdoor festivals.

Art Downtown also conducts guided tours of historic Old Town Brunswick, presenting thorough historical insights on Brunswick and the Golden Isles of Georgia.

Pay a Visit to Mary Ross Waterfront Park

View of Mary Ross Waterfront Park

J K Laws / Shutterstock.com

This park is located next to a stream and offers spectacular views of ships, fishing boats, crimson sunsets, and marshes.

It features a model Second World War Liberty Ship, verdant lawns, and an aesthetically pleasing pavilion.

The park hosts numerous events, including the Independence Day celebrations.

View of Mary Ross Waterfront Park

J K Laws / Shutterstock.com

The Brunswick farmers market is organized at this park every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday between 8 am and 5 pm.

Take a relaxing stroll by the mesmerizing river while watching the gorgeous sunset.

Or enjoy a nice picnic against the stunning backdrop.

Mary Ross Waterfront Park

J K Laws / Shutterstock.com

Try Shark Fishing with Mad Shark Charters

Mad Shark Charters – Day Tours are made possible around the nearby islands, run by a guide with over 30 years of expertise.

Inshore fishing, shark fishing, and sightseeing cruises are just some of the available options.

It’s up to you if you think you have the guts to face off against some of the world’s most enormous sharks on this adventure.

You may take a journey at any time of the day or night, so there’s something for everyone.

You may catch large shark species such as bull, hammerhead, blacktip, nurse sharks, sharpnose, and lemon sharks.

Watch a Show at Ritz Theatre

Ritz Theatre

Dietmar Rauscher / Shutterstock.com

This historic theatre is located in downtown Brunswick.

It was formerly meant only for performing opera.

Currently, it hosts musical concerts, plays, dance performances, parties, film screenings, art shows, and more.

It is owned by the city and operated by Golden Isles Arts and Humanities Association.

It is a perfect place for a wonderful evening’s entertainment.

View of Ritz Theatre

Bubba73 (Jud McCranie), CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Watch a Stew-Making Competition During Brunswick Rockin’ Stewbilee

This annual event takes place in January at the Mary Ross Waterfront Park.

It is primarily a stew-making competition featuring musical concerts, a pet parade, a vintage car exhibition, motorcycle rides, stew tasting, and more.

Several teams participate in the contest, and the event attracts myriads of visitors, both tourists and locals alike.

Brunswick Stew is a significant part of the local cuisine here and is a must-try.

The ticket price is $5 for kids and $10 for adults.

Hop in the Spooky Last Ride Ghost Tours

Visit the tranquil seaside town of Brunswick, Georgia, and learn about its fascinating history, mysteries, tales, and myths on a guided tour of Old Town Brunswick.

For those looking for a haunted history tour of Brunswick’s Old Town, Last Ride Ghost Tours is the place to go.

For six to nine guests, a customized hearse allows convenient access to all of the destinations on this trip.

Watch the Sailing Ships at Brunswick Landing Marina

View of Brunswick Landing Marina

qwesy qwesy, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Visit the marina to enjoy the amazing views of the countless boats docked here, the surrounding marshes, and the picturesque river.

It is located on a stream connected to the Brunswick River near the ocean water.

You can spend your evening watching beautiful boats and ships leave the marina for adventures in the sea.

Restaurants, stores, galleries, and theatres are located within less than a mile’s distance from here.

Don’t miss out on trying the fresh and delicious seafood at these eateries.

Appreciate Art at SoGlo Gallery

SoGlo is a contemporary art gallery that presents rotating exhibitions featuring works by regional artists.

It is located next to the Brunswick Actors Theatre, which is dedicated to producing exceptional theatre performances with the support of regional actors and playwrights.

Browse art and watch a lively play here while exploring downtown Brunswick.

See the Lover’s Oak

View of Lover’s Oak

Ebyabe, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Located in downtown Brunswick, this historic oak tree is estimated to be more than nine centuries old.

Legend has it that this tree was a meeting point for lovers hundreds of years ago.

The plaque underneath the gigantic tree states that the tree existed at the time when the US constitution was signed in 1787.

View of Lover’s Oak

Ebyabe, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Go Shrimping with Coastal Tide Excursions

Go on a sea expedition with Coastal Tide Excursions on their famous Lady Jane shrimp boat.

Catch shrimps while learning interesting facts about sea denizens from a marine biologist present on the boat.

In addition to catching shrimps, you can watch various other diverse sea animals get caught in the net, such as squids, crabs, stingrays, fishes, small sharks, turtles, and more.

The views from the boat are also stunning.

The tour lasts about 2 hours, and the entire experience is enjoyable and exciting.

The ticket price is $39.99 for patrons up to 5 years of age and $47.99 for others.

See the Signature Squares of Brunswick

These are a group of squares and parks established during the colonial period and spread across downtown Brunswick.

They were renovated and maintained to be used for recreation by locals and tourists.

Various events are organized at these squares throughout the year.

Visit and admire the picturesque landscaped gardens and quaint fountains of these parks.

Visit the Hofwyl-Broadfield Plantation

View of Hofwyl-Broadfield Plantation

SR Productions / Shutterstock.com

Located along the Altamaha River, this land was bought by William Brailsford in the early 19th century to start a rice plantation.

Five generations of his family lived there until 1973.

The house on the site dated back to the 1850s and was built by Brailsford’s granddaughter and her husband.

View of Hofwyl-Broadfield Plantation

Ebyabe, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The home has been maintained to accurately represent how it would look like if the family was still living there.

It exhibits the original furniture, silverware, and heirlooms.

You can tour the home and explore the site of the former rice plantation.

This is also a great place for birding.

View of Hofwyl-Broadfield Plantation

SR Productions / Shutterstock.com

Celebrate Brunswick Blessing of the Fleet

Also known as Mayfair, Brunswick Blessing of the Fleet is celebrated on the Saturday before Mother’s Day in the US.

The tradition dates back to 1938 and takes place at the Mary Ross Waterfront Park.

The main event is a boat parade featuring numerous colorful, ornate shrimp boats.

In addition, it also includes fresh and delectable seafood, boat rides, water recreation, fun activities, musical concerts, art shows, vintage car exhibitions, fireworks, a health run, and plenty more.

It is one of the biggest events in Brunswick.

Be a part of the festivities and experience the vibrant local culture.

Wander around Blythe Island Regional Park

This park is a popular campground located in Brunswick.

It features dense foliage, an enchanting lake, access to the river, and picnic areas.

Lake Cindee provides great opportunities for fishing and swimming.

Camp here and enjoy the splendid natural beauty.

Try Your Luck at Emerald Princess II Casino

View of Emerald Princess II Casino

Kevin Kipper / Shutterstock.com

At the Emerald Princess Casino, you’ll find two gaming floors, award-winning restaurants, and a breathtaking observation deck on a 200-foot cruise ship.

Onboard the adults-only floating casino, there is a wide range of gambling options, including roulette wheels and craps tables, as well as a selection of card games and sports wagering.

Dining on the café deck, with a view of the ocean and gentle sea breezes, is a fantastic way to appreciate the ship’s open-air viewing platform and take in the stunning scenery.

Try Different Cuisines at Indigo Coastal Shanty

Located in Brunswick’s Historic Downtown, the Indigo Coastal Shanty is a bright and cheerful cafe that provides many local and foreign dishes, including Bahamian and Southern cuisines.

Outside, the shack is decked out in fading pastels surrounded by palm trees and ample shade trees, while inside, the bright red carpeting and large windows allow for plenty of natural light to flood the room.

Classic meals, including salad and dips, burgers, sandwiches, and specialty plates, along with a wide variety of side dishes and desserts, are on the menu, which is available for lunch and supper.

Indulge Seafood Delights at Shuck’s Seafood Market

As a family-friendly seafood eatery, Shuck’s Seafood Market delivers ocean-fresh fare, including catch-of-the-day fish and a giant crab.

As a seafood market in Brunswick and Kingsland, Shucks Seafood Market offers a selection of fish and seafood feasts served with eggs, corn, and potatoes and a choice of fried baskets, sides, and drinks.

Additionally, Shuck’s Seafood Market provides catering for special occasions and is open from Monday to Saturday.

Book a Massage Session at Coastal Therapeutic Massage

With a wide range of therapeutic massages, Coastal Therapeutic Massage can meet your demands and your budget.

Every session’s work develops on the previous one, assisting your body to keep its relaxed condition and your muscles free even under intense physical or emotional stress.

A session includes treatment, time to change and undress, and communication with the therapist.

They primarily utilize the best goods to advance your health, and each of their hypoallergenic, organic items is one of a kind.

See the difference at Coastal Therapeutic Massage, where you may get a massage that suits your needs and is accessible, convenient, and pleasurable.

Expect a Fun and Memorable Time at the Stike Zone

The Strike Zone offers a variety of activities so that customers may have fun and create enduring memories.

The best 18-hole black light mini golf game in Brunswick, Captain Spare- O’s, is perfectly situated within the Strike Zone.

You’ll go on a 3-D pirate-themed journey in this black light game.

Rock-N-Bowl at The Strike Zone is a fantastic bowling activity for bowlers of all ages!

On its projection screens above the lanes, they broadcast today’s greatest music video favorites when the lights are dimmed and the music is turned up every Friday and Saturday night.

Play cutting-edge video games at the Gutterball Arcade, featuring classic favorites and games for racing, shooting, and sports.

In addition to hamburgers, pizza, and French fries in their latest snack bar, they also provide beverages in the bar area.

Breathe and Unwind at Salt AER Studios

A small-scale health facility called Salt AER Studios offers solutions for every family member.

The owner, Elisabeth Ruff, is a local businesswoman with immense experience in yoga, social fitness, and kid’s exercise.

She has integrated them to provide a variety of distinctive offers in one location.

Their objective is to offer a space where families may build their bodies, take the opportunity to breathe deeply, nourish the body, and spark creativity in a calm setting.

The whole family can breathe, unwind, and have fun at Salt AER Studios!

Aerial and mat yoga, meditation, sound baths, and more are offered in addition to group and private fitness classes.

Play Endlessly at Pinball Palace

Pinball Palace was created as a love-based project in a garage with just a few machines.

They offer a comfortable, sanitary, and secure place for your entire family to unwind.

The public may enjoy a wide collection of pinball and arcade machines.

Come watch the machines’ evolution into the cutting-edge wonders they are today!

Ninety-six pinball machines are accessible for free play with the cost of entry, ranging from classics to more recent arrivals.

They feature a variety of arcade games, including air hockey, bubble hockey, and others.

Children will have a lot of fun in their enormous bounce house room and obstacle courses.

There are soft drinks, beer, and wine available at Pinball Palace.

Have a Drink with Buddies at Silver Bluff Brewing Company

The Silver Bluff Brewing Company is situated in Brunswick’s downtown area.

Four all-season beers, three to four occasional brews, and at least five special launches are constantly available in the taproom.

The distinctive brewing establishment includes two brewhouses, a bottling operation, a taproom, and a beer garden.

Their beers are outstanding representations of traditional types, and their crew has years of brewing practice and several certifications.

Its surroundings are ideal for a quick pint, a day of drinking, or a large gathering.

Other Things to Do Nearby

See the Surrounding Views From Above St. Simons Lighthouse Museum

St. Simons Lighthouse Museum

Joanne Dale / Shutterstock.com

Located on St. Simons Island, this photogenic and quaint lighthouse dates back to the early 19th century.

The original lighthouse was replaced with the current one in 1872 after the Confederate army demolished the original to disrupt the movement of Union soldiers on the sea.

The lighthouse is still operational and guides boats and ships on the St. Simons Sound.

You can go to the top of the tower and enjoy captivating bird’s-eye views of St. Simons Island, Brunswick, and Jekyll Island.

View of St. Simons Lighthouse Museum

Joanne Dale / Shutterstock.com

The keeper’s residence has been converted into a museum, featuring historical exhibits and local memorabilia that depict the region’s history.

The Victorian-style building is aesthetically very pleasing and attracts numerous tourists.

St. Simons Island is a 12 minutes’ drive from Brunswick.

View of St. Simons Lighthouse Museum

Joanne Dale / Shutterstock.com

Watch a Musical Concert at Rhythm on the River

Musical concerts featuring regional singers and bands are organized on the first Sunday of every month from April to October at the Mary Ross Waterfront Park.

It is fun for all ages and is absolutely free.

Groove to the music while enjoying the scenic views of the river.

Revisit History at Fort Frederica National Monument

Fort Frederica

Darryl Brooks / shutterstock.com

Fort Frederica was built in the early 18th century by British colonists to protect the coast from enemy invasions by sea.

After the Battle of Bloody Marsh between Britain and Spain in 1742, the threat of enemy attack at the coast gradually declined.

This battle took place on this island, and Britain emerged victoriously.

View of Fort Frederica National Monument

Darryl Brooks / shutterstock.com

The army forces guarding the fort abandoned it in 1749.

Visit and explore the ancient remains of the fort on the site.

The park also offers spectacular views of the charming river, towering trees, and verdant marshes.

Admission to the site is free of charge.

See the Driftwoods at Driftwood Beach

Driftwoods at Driftwood Beach

Kevin Ruck / shutterstock.com

Located on Jekyll Island, Driftwood Beach is one of the most romantic beaches in the United States.

It gets its name from the magnificent driftwoods that make this beach unique.

It offers plenty of opportunities to take great pictures.

Driftwoods at Driftwood Beach

Jon Bilous / shutterstock.com

Enjoy a romantic evening walk on this beach and watch the setting sun paint the sky a kaleidoscope of crimson, pink, yellow, and purple.

The sunrise on this beach is equally enchanting.

Owing to its incredible scenic beauty and tranquil atmosphere, it is a renowned wedding destination.

Driftwoods at Driftwood Beach

NiglayNik / shutterstock.com

Visit the Bloody Marsh Battlefield

This battle between Britain and Spain took place in July 1742.

The British soldiers emerged victorious after defeating a much larger Spanish army.

In the battle, Spain’s motive was to gain control of Georgia and turn it into a Spanish colony.

Today, the site features a memorial, markers explaining the battle, and vast spreading marshes.

Take a step back in time and explore this historic site.

Revisit History at Horton House

Horton House

Bob Pool / shutterstock.com

This historic building in Jekyll Island dates back to 1743 and was the home of Major William Horton.

He was in charge of the soldiers stationed at Fort Frederica in St. Simons Island.

After moving into his newly constructed home, he started farming on the island.

View of Horton House

Michelle Marcengill / shutterstock.com

Using the rye and hops from his farm, he brewed the first beer in Georgia at the brewery that he built near his home.

He supplied the beer to colonists.

The Horton house later became the home of a privateer and entrepreneur named Christophe Poulain DuBignon and his family in the late 18th century.

View of Horton House

Judson McCranie, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Graves of his family members are located at a burial site near this building.

Today, the Horton House is used for organizing various events and is popular for photography.

It is also one of the oldest buildings in the region.

Visit and explore this historic site.

See Turtles at Georgia Sea Turtle Centre

Georgia Sea Turtle Centre

Joanne Dale / Shutterstock.com

Georgia Sea Turtle Centre aims to rehabilitate marine turtles and study them.

Get close to the turtles and watch them being treated and taken care of at the rehabilitation area.

Tour the facility and learn more about these majestic creatures through the various exhibits.

View of Georgia Sea Turtle Centre

SR Productions / Shutterstock.com

The institution is dedicated to taking good care of these sick turtles, and their research is helping countless turtles across the globe.

It is located on Jekyll Island, which is a 25 minutes’ drive away from Brunswick.

The admission fee ranges from $7.49 to $9.63, depending on your age.

Swim at a Wave Pool at Summer Waves Water Park

View of Summer Waves Water Park

Michael Rivera, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

This popular water park features a wave pool, multiple giant water slides, a lazy river, a splash pad, a water playground, several pools, volleyball courts, bucket dumps, a sandwich shop, cabanas, and plenty more.

It is located on Jekyll Island and offers scenic views of the Jekyll River.

Escape from the monotonous daily routine and spend a relaxing and fun-filled day at this park.

It is recommended to book your tickets online to avail of a discount.

Final Thoughts

Brunswick, Georgia, is a place where the past, the present, and the future collide.

Try the ones on our list and have a great time in this historical city!

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