Perched in Southern Georgia, Valdosta is a charming city with a picturesque backdrop and plenty of fun attractions.
Filled with blooming azalea bushes, it’s also known as Azalea City; Valdosta even hosts an annual Azalea Festival every March.
Along with everything else, this culturally significant city is home to fascinating museums and art galleries.
Valdosta also offers thrilling roller coaster rides and water park fun, making it an excellent destination for the whole family.
To top it all off, you will also find the most delicious Southern comfort food here.
The city has something for everyone.
Here are the best things to do in Valdosta, Georgia:
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Valdosta is a fantastic city with beautiful streets and a stunning backdrop.
The best way to enjoy its true scenic glory is by simply walking around and exploring new places while relishing its charm and beauty.
Valdosta is a tiny city, which makes it ideal for exploring on foot.
Stroll around to explore the city like a local and discover various unique places along your way.
You will find the best cafes and restaurants serving delicious local cuisine.
Freely walking around will also allow you to discover some of the city’s hidden gems, which you wouldn’t be able to find by following a strictly planned itinerary.
Located on Knight Academy Road, the Grand Bay Wildlife Management Area comprises 2,623 acres of natural swamps and forested areas owned by the state.
It provides an opportunity for visitors to learn about the wetland habitat and enjoy splendid greenery.
There are several hiking and nature trails for you to enjoy the surroundings while getting some exercise.
At the end of the hike, there is a three-story tower from where you can enjoy beautiful views of the whole area in all directions.
Along with the trails, there are designated shelters where you can enjoy a scenic picnic.
You can also spot several animals such as various birds, alligators, bullfrogs, butterflies, snakes, and many more.
The Grand Bay Wildlife Management Area is the perfect place to appreciate Valdosta’s natural setting, and the best way to relish it is by enjoying quiet, peaceful walks here.
Michael Rivera, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Freedom Park, located on Guest Road, is a 250-acre community green spot with plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation.
The park has an 18-hole disc golf course, baseball diamonds, a playground, concession stands, walking trails, hiking trails, a soccer field, a picnic area, and more.
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It’s a perfect place to spend a day outdoors playing soccer, golf, or baseball while enjoying its beautifully landscaped greenery.
The nature trails provide an ideal way to immerse yourself in nature away from the city’s hustle and bustle.
Freedom Park also has a dog park where you can take your pooch to play with other dogs.
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The Lowndes County Historical Society is devoted to preserving the rich historical heritage of Lowndes County and Valdosta.
It is a non-profit organization that was founded in 1967.
The Lounds County Museum is located in downtown Valdosta, specifically in a historic building that once housed Carnegie Library.
The organization started with just a small museum and now comprises two-floor art galleries, outdoor exhibits, a research library, a military museum, and more.
You can learn a lot about local history and culture through the fascinating and informative exhibits, artifacts, memorabilia, photographs, and more at the Lowndes County Historical Society and Museum.
South Georgia Pecan Company is a family-owned company that was established in 1913.
Situated on South Lee Street, it offers the finest pecans grown in the area.
The company processes its freshly harvested pecans to ensure the best quality.
At the gift shop, you can also purchase other nuts like Brazil nuts, almonds, peanuts, and snack mixes.
Along with nuts, the store also sells BBQ sauce, relishes, hot sauce, chutneys, jellies, jams, and more.
You can sample everything before making any purchases to ensure you get the finest product possible.
Check out South Georgia Pecan Company when visiting Valdosta to experience the finest Southern hospitality and taste the best pecans the area offers.
Built in 1898, the Crescent is a 23-room mansion with a crescent-shaped front porch.
In 1980, it was listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Its beautifully landscaped gardens have large live oaks, Spanish moss, magnolia, and many more plant life, making them extremely beautiful and picturesque.
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The inside of the mansion is just as impressive, with stunning ceilings, beautiful stained glass windows, and Victorian-style white columns.
Visitors are welcome to join guided tours of the estate.
The Crescent will win your heart with its charming environment, beautiful architecture, and fascinating history.
You can find this attraction on North Patterson Street.
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The Annette Howell Turner Center for the Arts is the centerpiece of Valdosta’s art scene.
This art center covers about 17,000 square feet and comprises seven galleries that showcase the work of local and national artists.
The permanent exhibits include an impressively large 600-piece collection of East African art, a 30-piece European porcelain collection, and more.
The Annette Howell Turner Center for the Arts holds more than 30 exhibits annually, so no matter when you visit this art space, you will see the wondrous works of talented artists.
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If you are an enthusiast, this place will be the perfect location for relishing the local art scene.
You can even buy the art pieces on display.
There is a gift shop on the premises where you can purchase fantastic crafts like handmade soaps, stained glass, regional books, candles, wood carvings, palette knife paintings, and more.
Visit the Annette Turner Center for the Arts on North Patterson Street to witness Valdosta’s stunning art scene.
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Situated along Old Clyattville Road, Wild Adventures Theme Park is one of Valdosta’s most popular attractions.
It is a zoological theme park, waterpark, and animal park.
You will find fun rides and games like roller coasters, Ferris wheels, carousels, mini-golf, go-kart racing, an arcade, and other adventurous stuff for visitors of all ages.
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There is a zoo where you can see exotic animals such as tigers, lions, giraffes, porcupines, monkeys, birds, alligators, and more.
Besides all this, the park also organizes live shows and concerts to entertain visitors.
There are restaurants and cafes where you can eat delicious food after all the fun.
Visit Wild Adventures Theme Park and enjoy fun rides, animals, and a water park.
Michael Rivera, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Michael Rivera, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
The Azalea City Trail is a 2.63-mile paved urban trail that is perfect for biking or walking.
It extends from the Vallotton Youth Complex on Woodlawn Drive to the Craig Center on West Gordon Street.
Are you interested in trying something new?
Head to Valdosta Wake Compound on Old Cyattville Road and try your hand at wakeboarding.
Beginners can take one-on-one lessons with the facility’s professional instructors, complete with top-of-the-line gear.
Valdosta Wake Compound also hosts several events, including weekly competitions for wakeboarders of all skill levels.
Those who plan to incorporate a lot of wakeboarding time into their itinerary are welcome to book overnight stays at the compound’s on-site rooms or camping area.
Valdosta is well-known for its thrift shops, where you can get excellent deals.
If you are lucky, chances are you will find some real treasure at a bargain.
You can buy clothes, books, furniture, and more antique and vintage items.
The best thrift stores in the city are Restored Treasures Upscale Thrift Store, Rethink It Odds & Ends Consignment and Collectibles, Lucas Country Flea Market, and Salvation Army Thrift Store.
Visit these stores to buy quality items at affordable prices.
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Want to have some fun in the middle of Valdosta?
Spanning 28 acres, Scott Park is an excellent place to enjoy with your family and friends.
As the park is often used as a football field, it is well-lit and well-maintained.
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On game nights, the space is extra fun and lively.
Scott Park also has basketball and tennis courts, along with enough space to play games and enjoy picnics.
You can find this park on Old Statenville Road.
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Are you into architecture?
Head to the Barber-Pittman House on North Ashley Street to get a glimpse of what real architecture looks like.
If you usually get excited about old buildings with intricate detailing, this attraction is a must for your Valdosta itinerary.
The house is one of the finest examples of Greek Revival-style architecture, complete with original features that have never been renovated.
The Barber-Pittman House was designed by local Valdosta architect Lloyd Barton Greer, who also provided some ideas for the design of the iconic Carnegie Library.
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Valdosta boasts a number of excellent tennis courts where you can test your skills.
Home to the famous Harry B. Anderson Tennis Center, McKey Park comprises a whopping 12 tennis courts.
This park on North Street also features ample spots for children to enjoy.
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In addition to everything, you will come across a beautiful creek running amid the playgrounds.
Head over to McKey Park to have a fun-filled afternoon.
Michael Rivera, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Michael Rivera, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Located on Normal Drive, the Valdosta Mall is an outlet mall where you get your hands on many products at much lower rates than typical retail stores.
It is home to over 70 retailers and restaurants.
You can shop here to your heart’s content.
Michael Rivera, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Michael Rivera, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Drexel Park was not always a park.
It used to be quite an industrial site.
Due to increasing pollution and uneasiness, trees were eventually planted here.
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In time, it was transformed into what you’ll see today—a beautiful green park made just for the public.
Located quite close to the Drexel University campus, the park is often filled with college kids who come here to relax or concentrate on their work.
More than 45 trees have been planted in the park since it opened to the public in 2008, and the efforts are still going on.
Catch a Show at Peach State Summer Theatre
Peach State Summer Theatre is where you can enjoy some of the best shows in all of Valdosta.
It is located inside the Valdosta State University campus on North Patterson Street.
Every summer, the company gathers some of the best theater actors, technicians, musicians, and dancers to come and perform for audiences from far and wide.
During this 10-week period, they put together three different musicals.
Peach State Summer Theatre takes pride in being named Georgia’s Official Musical Theatre.
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South Georgia’s prime attraction, Valdosta boasts some of the most delicious food.
Steak, biscuits, gravy, and special fried chicken are some of the best treats you can have here.
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If you want to taste the city’s local delicacies, check out Mom & Dad’s Italian Restaurant on North Valdosta Road, which has been serving customers since the 1950s and is now a Valdosta staple.
Also on North Valdosta Road, Smok’n Pig BBQ is the best place to check out if you want some good southern BBQ.
Austin’s Cattle Company, located on West Will Avenue, is one of the most amazing places to eat if you enjoy smoked ribs.
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The Valdosta State University Campus is an excellent place to tour on your trip to the city.
Located within the campus, the Bailey Science Center is quite a cool and interactive place to check out and learn new things.
The Copeland African American Museum is another attractive place to visit on campus if you want to learn more about African American culture.
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Valdosta State University also has its own walking trails, collectively referred to as the VSU Walking Trail System.
It includes a scenic route and a fitness route, so you can enjoy a leisurely walk and enjoy the sights or go for a run to get some much-needed cardio.
Jadvii, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Michael Rivera, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Formerly La Quinta Inn & Suites Valdosta, Wingate by Wyndham Valdosta is one of the city’s most renowned and best places to stay.
It is situated off I-17, on Club House Drive.
The hotel provides various amenities such as a fitness center, bowling, an outdoor pool, racquetball, complimentary breakfast, and more.
The service is exceptional, and the rooms are spacious and neat with comfortable beds.
Wingate by Wyndham Valdosta’s location is also great, as it is near the heart of the city’s food scene, where many excellent restaurants are located.
Located on West Hill Avenue, Austin’s Cattle Company is an American steakhouse that serves excellent ribs, steaks, and seafood.
The food served is delicious, with large portions to satisfy your cravings.
While its menu boasts several mouth-watering options, Austin’s Cattle Company is known to serve the best steak in the city.
Their most popular dishes include filet mignon, grilled shrimps, loaded baked potato, and prime ribs.
Austin’s Cattle Company also serves chilled beers and delicious cocktails.
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Steel Magnolias is a restaurant located on Patterson Street in Downtown Valdosta.
It serves classic southern food with a twist made from the freshest ingredients.
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The place also offers a beautiful rooftop setting for you to dine with gorgeous views.
Make sure to try the best Philly cheesesteak, short ribs, green fried tomatoes, and pimento cheese wontons.
Located on South Briggs Street, Georgia Beer Co. is a local brewery that serves traditional and innovative styles of crafted beer.
Georgia Beer Co. has a taproom where you can enjoy chilled beer.
While it doesn’t serve any food, you’re welcome to bring your snacks or have any local restaurant deliver food to the brewery so you can enjoy it with their fantastic beer.
There is ample space for both indoor and outdoor seatings.
Make sure to try the Southern Isles beer and Field Party beer when you drink at Georgia Beer Co.
Are you looking to have some fun and connect with friends in one location?
Epic Escape Rooms’ challenges are made to be complex for all their customers.
You will have 60 minutes to solve a sequence of riddles and hints that will gradually get you closer to your objective.
Get the room’s puzzle solved and leave before your timer expires!
The games at Epic Escape Rooms range in difficulty from “Entry Level” to “Challenge Room.”
You can find this attraction on North Ashley Street.
South Georgia’s best golf and residential neighborhood, Kinderlou Forest, is a paradise for residents looking for a unique and esteemed location.
With new home lots available to cater to a range of homebuyers, the main boulevard is lined with lovely houses surrounding the golf course.
It is part of numerous distinct residential communities.
The professional 18-hole world-class golf course was built by Davis Love III Designs and debuted in April 2004.
The geography of Kinderlou Forest is uncommon for the area, which is noted for its flat landscape.
The trademark #4 hole is among the most challenging yet stunning holes on the course, and the sloping hills add a special aspect not found in southern Georgia.
Are you seeking presents for friends and family or keepsakes to carry home?
Restored Treasures Upscale Thrift Store, located along Avenue B, is a premium thrift shop that opened in March 2015.
The store has everything you need, whether you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind treasure, clothes, discounted home décor, or items for an upcoming DIY project.
By shopping here, you are choosing to support crucial training, education, and recovery programs in your neighborhood that assist both men and women in overcoming addiction and abuse.
If you’re looking for a place to look around for interesting items, stopping by Restored Treasures Upscale Thrift Store is a must.
There are many excellent Italian restaurants, but very few provide top-notch cuisine, kind hospitality, and reasonable prices in a welcoming family setting.
At Mom & Dad’s Italian Restaurant, they’ve combined them all so you can unwind and feel at home.
Italian classics have been made at this quaint, family-run restaurant with a full bar since 1950.
Mom & Dad’s Italian Restaurant’s mission is to consistently deliver excellent cuisine and service to their clients in a warm, familial setting.
Private party facilities are available at this restaurant.
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In Valdosta, Georgia, there is a stadium called Bazemore-Hyder Stadium at Cleveland Field.
The first stadium was given the late Dr. A.G. Cleveland’s name since he oversaw the Valdosta City Schools from 1919 until 1949.
The 11,249-seat stadium first opened its doors in 1922.
Bazemore-Hyder Stadium serves as the home field for Valdosta State University, which has won the NCAA Division II National Football Championship for years.
It is mainly utilized for American football.
There are so many things to love about Valdosta, from its rich cultural legacy to its top-notch entertainment, leisure, and food options.
The city invites tourists to experience the welcoming Georgian hospitality the South is so well known for.
Bookmark this list of things to do in Valdosta, Georgia, and explore the many fantastic locations at this year-round tourism destination.
Plan a memorable vacation in Valdosta right away!
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