Blake Walsh

21 Best Things to Do in Jesup, GA

  • Published 2022/06/17

Are big and bustling cities not your style? Do you prefer quieter scenery, away from crowds and busy streets?

If you find yourself nodding yes to both these questions, then Jesup is the perfect place for you to visit!

This city in Wayne County, Georgia, is charming and beautiful, with plenty of things for you to see and do.

Jesup is the perfect place to enjoy a much-needed getaway and create lasting memories with your companions.

Spend days golfing in beautifully manicured landscapes, visiting parks, or watching movies in historic theaters.

Catch up with your friends over drinks at a local pub or participate in various outdoor activities.

Here are the best things to do in Jesup, GA:

See a Movie Outdoors at the Jesup Drive-in Theater

Name sign of Jesup Drive-in Theater

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

Jesup’s dedication to outdoor entertainment doesn’t stop at sports and nature walks.

If you’re looking for a fun activity with your friends or significant other, head to the Jesup Drive-in Theater.

Established in the 1940s, this Jesup classic is one of Georgia’s last drive-in theaters.

Today, it showcases some of the hottest movies throughout the year.

The screen and field of Jesup Drive-in Theater

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

The Jesup Drive-in Theater offers a unique and memorable experience as you watch a movie while breathing fresh air.

You can either watch the film inside your car or bring some chairs and enjoy the show under the stars.

You don’t have to bother bringing snacks as an onsite concessionaire sells different tasty treats.

The theater also features well-maintained restrooms and plenty of parking space for everyone.

Take a Stroll Downtown

When you get to Jesup, you first need to explore its vibrant and historic downtown area.

Then, stroll down the streets and take in all the lovely architecture and local businesses.

Visit the Jesup Railroad Museum, where you can learn about the city’s railroad history.

You can also buy some unique gifts and souvenirs from the various shops in the area.

Go to Rayonier Memorial Park

Rayonier Memorial Park is a great place to spend a day if you love being outdoors and socializing with the locals.

This park offers plenty of activities for you to enjoy.

You can go fishing in one of the ponds, play a game of tennis or basketball, have a picnic, or take a walk through the scenic nature trails.

You can also have a picnic lunch at one of the pavilions in the park or visit the playground with your kids.

Take a Nature Walk Down the McMillan Creek Greenway

Jesup offers a lot of fun and exciting outdoor activities.

Sometimes, you need an excellent old nature walk to clear your head.

If you’re looking for a place to reflect and ponder, head to the McMillan Creek Greenway.

This Jesup jewel is a premier hiking trail in the area, stretching for several miles through wetlands and forests.

It’s also a prime destination if you want to enjoy the great outdoors without spending money.

The McMillan Creek Greenway features an elevated boardwalk through various natural landscapes across Jesup.

You’ll see stunning nature scenes under the shade of tall trees and magnificent wetlands.

Before you make your way through the scenic boardwalk, wear comfortable shoes and clothing.

Then, you can take a hike or jog while stopping to take pictures of the area’s natural beauty.

Check Out the Historic Strand Dinner Cinema

Exterior of Strand Dinner Cinema

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

If outdoor cinema is not your thing—the rain might ruin the fun—Jesup, GA has other alternatives for you to check out.

One alternative is the Historic Strand Dinner Cinema.

Established in 1924, the Historic Strand Dinner Cinema is exactly what it sounds like.

It’s a Jesup staple where you can catch a movie while enjoying a delicious meal.

The cinema is Jesup’s only remaining active movie theater and serves American comfort food.

You can order Jesup’s famous fried chicken, BBQ, or meatloaf while enjoying a classic film or the latest Hollywood blockbuster.

The Strand Dinner Cinema is Jesup’s best-kept secret regarding great food and entertainment, so check it out!

Play Golf at the Pine Forest Country Club

No outdoor city is complete without a golf course, and Jesup is no exception.

The Pine Forest Country Club is a local favorite among Jesup residents and visitors.

This is an 18-hole golf course that challenges players of all skill levels.

It’s beautifully manicured, with rolling hills and picturesque landscapes.

It also has other facilities such as several sports courts, a swimming pool, and rental facilities for special events.

The Pine Forest Country Club also has an onsite restaurant that serves good food prepared by renowned chefs and cooks.

Visit Bill Morris Park

Bring your family and kids to Bill Morris Park for a day of fun and sun.

This Jesup staple has plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained.

This waterfront park is along the banks of the beautiful Baykin Lake.

It features a handful of amenities and is an absolute favorite among families.

The Bill Morris Park features sports facilities like baseball, softball, and football for youth and adult leagues.

There’s also a mile-long nature trail and a fishing sport around the lake.

Enjoy a day with your family and friends as you explore everything this park offers.

Play sports with your kids or chase them around the enormous Bill Morris Park.

Visit the Daily News Neighborhood Pub

The Daily News Neighborhood Pub is another Jesup staple and favorite hangout among the Jesup locals and visitors.

It’s a prime destination for some indoor fun and leisure, especially when the weather outside is not cooperating with your outdoor escapades.

The Daily News Neighborhood Pub is a cocktail bar boasting an impressive menu of top-of-the-line concoctions.

There are also pool tables, lounges, and tables, surrounded by a laid-back ambiance.

Whether you’re in for a few shots or to play a round of pool, the Daily News Neighborhood Pub is a great place to catch up with friends or meet the friendly locals.

Go Fishing or Hunting at the Penholoway Swamp Wildlife Management Area

Fishing and hunting are two of the best outdoor activities in Jesup.

Spanning 4,269 acres, the state-owned Penholoway Swamp Wildlife Management Area is a premier destination for local and visiting hunters and anglers.

This nature recreation area lets you take a break from the urban setting and commune with nature.

There’s also an onsite campground, so you can stay for a few days and truly enjoy the Jesup outdoors.

There are also waterfront activities like canoeing and kayaking.

Visit the Historic Doctortown

A former Native American village, Doctortown was once a booming little town in the early 19th century.

Today, it’s extinct, but it has become a popular destination for sightseeing in Jesup.

This one-of-a-kind tourist spot dates back to over a hundred years ago when it was a former Native American village.

It also became an important site during the Civil War.

If you’re a history buff, Doctortown is one of the ideal places to learn the rich history of Jesup.

Take plenty of photos and explore the extinct town and its hidden wonders.

Buy Fresh Pastries at Sugar N Spice Bake Shop

Exterior of Sugar N Spice Bake Shop

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

Sugar N Spice Bake Shop is the prime destination for local and visiting pasty lovers.

This bakery is known for its delicious cupcakes, pies, cookies, and cakes.

You can also dine in and enjoy their wide variety of breakfast pastries and sandwiches.

If you’re looking for a souvenir, you can also purchase their baked goods to take home.

Some of their notable products include homemade bread and sandwiches.

However, their iconic doughnuts are absolute best-sellers, making Sugar N Spice Bake Shop a Jesup institution.

Light and fluffy, Sugar N Spice’s doughnuts are Jesup’s must-try sweet treat.

Go Shopping at the Whaley Shopping Center

No trip is complete without shopping for items and souvenirs, and Jesup is no exception.

The Whaley Shopping Center is Jesup’s best shopping destination for retail therapy.

The Whaley Shopping Center is a one-stop-shop for all your shopping needs.

It has a grocery store, a pharmacy, several Clothing stores, and various other retail shops.

You can also find several Jesup souvenirs, such as keychains, mugs, and t-shirts.

The Whaley Shopping Center is also a great place to dine, with several Jesup restaurants located within the vicinity.

If you’re looking for a place to stay, this shopping center also offers apartments for rent.

Besides, it’s convenient to stay there since it’s in downtown Jesup, close to all the city’s best attractions.

Dine at the Laredo Mexican Restaurant

If you’re craving authentic Mexican cuisine, go to the Laredo Mexican Restaurant in Jesup.

This family-owned Mexican restaurant offers all your favorite Mexican dishes, from tacos and enchiladas to burritos and quesadillas.

Located on Sunset Boulevard, the Laredo Mexican Restaurant is dedicated to serving simple yet delicious Mexican food.

They use fresh ingredients to make all their dishes, and you can taste the difference in every bite.

Eat Good Food at Alec’s Sports Bar & Grill

If you want to eat good food while watching the big game, visit Alec’s Sports Bar & Grill.

This bar on West Walnut Street is a great place to watch sports, play darts, and drink Jesup’s best craft beers.

They also serve delicious food, such as burgers, wings, and nachos.

Alec’s Sports Bar & Grill is the perfect place to catch up on the big game, eat good food, and have a great time with friends and family.

Ride a Horse at Evercreek Farms

If you’re looking for a unique tourist attraction, try riding a horse at Evercreek Farms.

Evercreek Farms is known for its horseback riding trails, perfect for nature lovers and animal lovers.

Whether a beginner or a pro, you can enjoy a fun and relaxing horseback ride through Jesup’s beautiful scenery.

Evercreek Farms also offers other activities, such other activities like fishing, hiking, and picnicking.

Enjoy Your Stay at the Baymont By Wyndham Jesup

If you’re looking for a place to stay, you should check out the Baymont By Wyndham Jesup.

This Jesup hotel offers guests several amenities, including complimentary breakfast, Wi-Fi, and an outdoor pool.

Located in Express Lane, the Baymont By Wyndham Jesup is near several of Jesup’s best downtown attractions.

Other amenities include a breakfast corner, a fitness center, and an outdoor swimming pool.

The rooms also feature a mini-refrigerator, ironing facilities, a microwave, flat-screen TV with over 400 channels, a coffee maker, a book-filled coffee table, and jetted hot tub.

Enjoy ultimate relaxation after a long day exploring Jesup.

Watch a Baseball Ben Park Complex

Ben Park Complex is a nice place to be if you have an affinity for baseball.

It’s a go-to park for local baseball tournaments and casual games, so it’s a must-visit if you’re in the mood for a baseball game, whether as spectator or as a player.

Besides baseball, Ben Park Complex has other offerings as well, such as jogging trails for exercise.

There’s even a small pond here that adds a bit of scenery, making it a nice place to relax.

You can find Ben Park Complex along Hinson Mosley Road.

Have a Feast at Western Sizzlin

Western Sizzlin is one of the most popular dining establishments in Jesup, famous for its humble ambiance and flavor-packed cuisine.

It specializes in a lot of American homestyle food, so having a feast here is a no-brainer if you want something simple and close to home.

Some of their best dishes here include their flame-grilled steaks, fried chicken, seafood platters, and a wide variety of salads.

With a great ambiance, this is also a nice place to go out drinking with friends and family.

Western Sizzlin is located along Sunset Boulevard, right along Jesup’s main thoroughfares.

Bring Your Pooch to Jesup Dog Park

Jesup Dog Park is a great addition to your itinerary if you’re planning on bringing your furry friend with you.

It’s a decent dog park that gets the job done, as they have all the basics done right.

There’s a separate area for small and large breeds, water stations, and a lot of benches and shades for the owners.

As an added bonus, Jesup Dog Park is also right next to a police station, adding security to the area.

You can visit Jesup Dog Park along East Plum Street.

Start Your Day at Huddle House

Huddle House is a scrumptious way to begin your day, as they’re probably the most famous breakfast restaurant in Jesup.

While they’re a breakfast joint, Huddle House also serves lunch and dinner—in fact, they’re open 24/7, so don’t limit yourself to breakfast.

However, it’s no debate that their best food items here are their early morning plates, all of which are American classics that’s sure to hit the spot.

From their waffles, eggs, bacon, and pancakes, you can’t go wrong ordering your favorite combo.

Huddle House can be found conveniently along South 1st Street, so give it a try during your visit.

Take the Kids to Cracker Williams Park

Cracker Williams Park is one of the funnest city parks in Jesup.

Thanks in large part to their modern and huge playground, plenty of local kids find this place exciting—especially considering the amount of climbing contraptions it has.

There’s also a bit of something for the adults, as Cracker Williams Park has picnic grounds and tennis courts as well.

Many locals go here often as it’s tucked in a residential district, so it’s a fun way for kids to make new friends and immerse yourself in the culture of Jesup.

You can access Cracker Williams Park along East Bay Street.

Final Thoughts

Jesup is a charming city in Georgia that offers a laid-back getaway for families and friends alike.

In addition, there are several Jesup tourist attractions that everyone will surely enjoy.

From outdoor theaters to horseback riding, Jesup, GA, has something for everyone.

When you’re hungry, you can always enjoy a delicious meal or sweet treat.

Start planning your Jesup trip today!

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