Ocmulgee National Monument

The mounds have quickly become one of my favorite places in Macon! And what’s not to love?
National Monument? Check.
Historical and Cultural significance? Check.
Beautiful scenery? Check.
The informational video and exhibit in the visitors center, along with several boards posted, gives context on each of the mounds and sites. You can start at the visitors center and walk to the mounds or drive to a second parking lot that takes you right up to the base of the Great and Lesser Temple Mounds.
There are about 6 – 7 miles of trails throughout Ocmulgee that cross swamp, forest, and river areas. Some are paved, some are natural. It’s a great place close to downtown to get in touch with nature and enjoy the outdoors! Keep an eye out for birds and wildlife. There are lots of deer, and you may see a few alligators in the swamp if you look closely.

I love national parks! You can see, learn and experience many things absolutely for free!
In this park, you can learn how the native Americans lived in the past.
As I am from Japan, it was interesting to notice that there are so much in common with Native American’s life in the past and that of our ancient.

Cannot say in words how impressed we both were of this national monument, the visitors center and the mounds! Absolutely amazing tribute to the history of the tribes represented! There is a long paved trail to the first mound, which you enter and has A/​C! Then you can continue hiking or you can drive to the remaining mounds. There are many stairs leading up to the Great Mound. Breathtaking views from the top, to include the skyline of Macon, Ga.

Fabulous, Indian artifacts found on site during the archaeological digs are showcased in the future Visitor Center. The staff was very friendly about explaining what we could see in the hour before closing, they do lock the gates on the grounds. There are books for sale.
The paths and structures are well marked and easy to follow. Sure wish we had more time.

Visit and support this park if you’re in Macon. It’s interesting to realize how people lived thousands of years ago and how civilization grew and improved. The museum has stories and artifacts, as well as videos.
It’s a relatively easy walk around the grounds (not wheelchair-​friendly though). There are benches scattered throughout.
The staff is very friendly and knowledgable.

Indian celebration was great very educational it’s *Not* a Pow-​Wow. Very well done.
Definitely one of the best fests we’ve been at in the south.
Many exhibits good indian tacos by calhouns. Indians are here from many nations.
Crafts by local (Native American) artists.
Hands on for kids
Eat Indian tacos, gator tails, roast corn! Yummers
The only thing negative was some medical workers being loud taking during the dancing especially the blessing dance — very disrespectful.
Highly recommend visiting this event learn more about native peoples but be respectful during the ceremony!

The best time to go here is during the Ocmulgee Indian festival. This is a yearly event showcase American Indian Culture. Get some fry bread and watch the dancing. Its pretty cool. I like going to the national monument on any other day as well. I have hike around the mounds and the trails are marked and maintained as well. Probably my favorite part of this place is that they are pet friendly, even at the Indian festival.

Great place to go to experience history. From the museum to the mounds its like stepping back in time.
The Monument is a tribute to the Indians that lived here during the Mississippian period and created the mounds. Most of the main mounds are right off the roadway where there is parking for easy access. There many miles of trails to explore. Some of the trails are paved and others are dirt trails. Bikes are allowed on most trails and roadways.
The museum contains hundreds of artifacts dating back thousands of years. Most of the exhibits are related to the history of the mounds and Indians of the Mississippian period. The staff here is always knowledgeable, helpful, and nice.
Great place to take the kids or adults in your family for a fun and exciting afternoon. Best of all they are open year round and its always free!