Historic Macon

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The Coliseum was expanded with
convention facilities and became the
Centreplex.
have been recruited to locate downtown
and downtown living has been encouraged by
the development of a wealth of lofts in
previously unused spaces. Perhaps Newtown
Macon’s most visible success has been the
development of the Ocmulgee Trail, a river walk
making the riverfront accessible to the public
for the first time in over a century. A
playground, parks and miles of walking trails
have attracted thousands to the ancient sacred
river banks.
Another reason for optimism about Macon’s
future is a growing emphasis on and support for
tourism. A clean industry which benefits the
community as a whole, tourism is a natural for
Macon with its rich history and outstanding
architecture. At the foot of Cherry Street a
restored Terminal Station, once the hub of
Macon’s railroad activity, is now anchor for
Macon’s museum district. The state sponsored
Georgia Music Hall of Fame and Georgia Sports
Hall of Fame are in close proximity to the new
home of the Tubman African-American Museum
and the Children’s Museum. Add to these a
vibrant downtown nightlife offering a wide
variety of restaurants, clubs, and theatres and
live music to suit almost any taste and Macon is
becoming a magnet for visitors.
And, so, despite difficulties, risks and
challenges Macon approaches its twohundredth
birthday with reasons to look
forward to a bright future. Its assets have not
changed. Its excellent location in the heart of
the state makes it a transportation crossroads. It
remains a commercial and cultural center for its
region. And its greatest asset is still its citizenry,
people of vision, imagination and
determination. They have steered the old town
through calamities large and small. Their
spiritual descendants, today’s citizens, who love
their hometown, will work to ensure its
continued success well into its third century.
58 ✦ HISTORIC MACON