A Family Getaway to St. Marys, Georgia That They’ll Always Remember

Tucked along Georgia’s southeastern coast, St. Marys offers the perfect blend of small-town charm, outdoor adventure, and family-friendly activities.About a 5 hour drive from Atlanta, it’s an easy overnight trip packed with things to do, from exploring historic sites to cruising around town in a golf cart.

Exploring Downtown St. Marys

The historic downtown district is a walkable hub filled with charming shops, delicious treats, and fun finds for kids and adults alike. Market on the Square has a tempting selection of candies, ice cream, and gifts, while D-Vine Sports Cards & Collectibles is a must-visit for Pokémon fans and trading card enthusiasts.

Want to add a little adventure to your sightseeing? Rent a golf cart to cruise through town or hop on a bike to explore the scenic streets and waterfront paths.

Outdoor Fun on the Water

St. Marys Waterfront Park is the heartbeat of the town, offering gorgeous river views, a pier, picnic areas, and plenty of space for kids and pets to play. Depending on the season, you might even catch a festival or event happening right along the riverwalk.

For a deeper dive into the area’s history, the St. Marys Submarine Museum brings the fascinating world of the “silent service” to life. It’s the largest submarine museum in the South and features historical documents, artifacts, and even a working periscope that offers stunning views of the waterfront.

Just a short walk away, the Cumberland Island National Seashore Museum shares stories from the island’s long history, including its Indigenous past, colonial explorers, and the era of enslaved people who lived and worked there. If your family is up for a bigger adventure, a ferry from the St. Marys waterfront can take you to Cumberland Island itself—where wild horses roam, and pristine beaches stretch for miles.

More Outdoor Adventures

For those who prefer their adventures on land, Crooked River State Park is just a short drive from downtown. With four hiking trails, scenic fishing spots, and three kayaking routes, it’s an outdoor lover’s dream. The park also features mini golf, geocaching, and a nature center filled with native Georgia wildlife. History buffs can venture to the nearby ruins of a sugar mill built in the early 1800s, later repurposed as a Civil War-era starch factory.

Indoor Fun for the Whole Family

If the weather isn’t cooperating or you just need a break from the sun, Marsh Mud Pottery Studio offers a creative retreat where kids and adults can paint their own pottery. For a splash of excitement, head to the St. Marys Aquatic Center, where families can enjoy water slides, a lazy river, and interactive play areas. Parents can relax in shaded cabanas while the kids burn off energy in the pools.

Where to Stay

St. Marys has plenty of lodging options that makes it an easy overnight getaway. Vacation rentals, like those at Borne 605: A Vacation Rental Village, offer one- to three-bedroom options with cozy porches, outdoor dining areas, and fire pits. The Goodbread House Inn provides a more historic stay, with a veranda overlooking downtown and easy access to the waterfront.

For families who love the outdoors, Crooked River State Park offers both campsites and cottages surrounded by moss-draped oaks and scenic marshland. It’s a peaceful way to extend the adventure.