From hot glass blowing and a variety of art workshops to theatrical performances in a historic theatre, Americus offers many hands on opportunities to experience the arts
AMERICUS, GEORGIA—JUNE 2023— Located in west-central Georgia, convenient to I-75, three hours south of Atlanta and just two hours north of I-10, Americus is a west-central Georgia hot spot filled with Presidential history, interesting dining and some of the most unique artistic experiences, making it the art hub of southwest Georgia. From glass blowing and a plethora of art workshops to theatrical performance in a historic theatre, Americus is an ideal destination to experience something new.
Experience the arts
Get in an artistic state of mind by taking in a show at the historic Rylander Theatre. Located in historic downtown just a few blocks from the Windsor Hotel, the Rylander Theatre was originally built in 1921 and operated as a Vaudeville theatre. Restored in 1999, the historic theatre features an Art Deco style design and has a seating capacity of 621. From live performances and movies to special events and organ concerts on the 1928 Moller Theatre Pipe Organ, any show at the Rylander is sure to be a memorable experience. Don’t miss this summer’s residency performance of “Rapunzel” produced and performed by the Missoula Children’s Theatre. Featuring students entering first grade through 12th grade, this production will be a real treat for patrons of all ages. For show dates, tickets and more, click here. Rylander Theatre, 310 West Lamar Street, Americus, Georgia 31709; 229-931-0001
Get your creative juices flowing with a visit to the center of glassblowing at Mobile Glassblowing Studios in Americus. Founded in 2015 by Charles Wells and Phil Vinson, both sculptors, glass artists and educators who call southwest Georgia home. Offering a wide range of glassblowing equipment for those looking to bring a hot glass experience to their business, Mobile Glassblowing Studios also offers workshops, a gallery space and events throughout the year. Workshops are by appointment only and require a minimum of two people. Stop by the gallery to see many locally made glass items including cups, bowls, vases, jewelry, sculptures and more. Mobile Glassblowing Studios, 505 West Lamar Street, Americus, Georgia 31709; 229-352-9988
Be inspired by the art of glassblowing, a tradition more than 2,000 years old. Hot Glass Academy is a mobile glassblowing business offering a wide range of workshops and performances for events of all types and sizes. Bringing hot glass services to residential homes, corporate offices, summer camps, schools, universities, community centers, hotels and resorts, vineyards, breweries and more, Hot Glass Academy is sure to add a memorable experience to any gathering. For more information on booking Hot Glass Academy for a workshop or event, click here. Hot Glass Academy, 701 McGarrah Street, Americus, Georgia 31719; 585-704-6942
The whole family will love rolling up their sleeves and getting creative at Art Hive Studio. Located in the heart of historic downtown Americus, Art Hive Studio is a boutique process art studio offering a variety of family friendly art experiences that encourages guests to connect, create and celebrate. From workshops and summer camps to private lessons and more, there’s truly something for everyone. Started by Madison Hernandez, a professional artist and wedding/lifestyle photographer, Art Hive Studio has become a popular spot for families looking for a fun activity in a whimsical environment. Bursting with color, good vibes and loads of creativity, a trip to Art Hive Studio is sure to put a smile on your face. Classes and events are by reservation only. For more information, click here. Art Hive Studio, 114 Cotton Avenue, Suite A, Americus, Georgia 31709
Where to eat
For your morning kick-start, head to Sweet Georgia Bakery and Café for coffee drinks, light breakfast, good company and coffee by the pound. The café also serves soups, salads, sandwiches and baked goods. Nearby, known for their “always fresh” menu items, Little Brother’s Bistro is just the spot for lunch. From homemade pimento cheese sandwiches and refreshing wraps to muffulettas, salads, soups and paninis, there’s no way you can go wrong with anything on the menu. Sweet Georgia Bakery and Café, 134 West Lamar Street, Americus, Georgia 31709, 229-380-0439; Little Brother’s Bistro, 123 West Lamar Street, Americus, Georgia 31709; 229-410-9827.
Indulge in Victorian elegance for dinner at Rosemary & Thyme. Located inside the Historic Windsor Hotel, in the heart of downtown Americus, Rosemary & Thyme celebrates the Victorian era from top to bottom. The original tile floor, wrought-iron footed tables and furnishings reflecting the Victorian period create quite an elegant ambiance. Diners delight in a flavorful modern American menu featuring the freshest ingredients and seasonal favorites. Rosemary & Thyme, 125 West Lamar Street, Americus, Georgia 31709; 229-924-1555
Where to shop
Don’t forget to save some time to explore the area’s hottest shopping spots. Visitors and locals alike enjoy shopping Americus’ downtown district. Browse antiques, gifts, home décor and locally made specialty items at The Maze. From local brands to one-of-a-kind art and furniture, shoppers are sure to find something they can’t live without at The Maze. The Maze, 131 West Forsyth Street, Americus, Georgia 31709; 229-928-9688
Take in the season’s latest trends at The Kinnebrew Co. Established in 1947, this hometown shop offers a wide variety of apparel for men and women, footwear, gifts and accessories. Pop in and pick up a unique gift for the friend that has everything or treat yourself. The Kinnebrew Co., 208 West Lamar Street, Americus, Georgia 31709; 229-924-8888
Looking for more fun? Americus is also known for one-of-a-kind events, from a Hot Glass Craft Beer Fest to murder mystery dinner theater experiences. Click here for more of the area’s most beloved events.
If you go
Whether you are headed to the area for a long weekend or just passing through, Americus and the surrounding area is home to many great lodging options. Visitors love the Presidential ties to Plains Historic Inn & Antiques. Former President Jimmy Carter and former First Lady Rosalynn Carter have joined their hometown in developing a historic inn and antiques mall, located on Main Street in Plains, Georgia. They now invite guests to step back in time and enjoy the accommodations of one of seven period suites, authentically furnished from the 1920s to 1980s. Every room has a history lesson! Plains Historic Inn & Antiques, 106 Main Street, Plains, Georgia, 31780; 229-824-4517.
Located in the heart of downtown Americus, the Historic Windsor Hotel was built in 1892, to attract winter visitors from the north. The Windsor was a 100-room, five-story Victorian masterpiece architecturally designed with a tower and turret, balconies and a three-story open atrium lobby. The hotel occupies nearly an entire city block and was the site of numerous balls and celebrations over many decades and after nearly 80 years in operation, the hotel closed its doors in 1972. In 1991, the hotel re-opened after a $6.5 million dollar renovation. Historic Windsor Hotel, 125 W. Lamar Street, Americus, Georgia, 31709; 229-924-1555.
History buffs will love the Americus Garden Inn. This historic bed and breakfast was built before the Civil War in 1847 and is situated on Rees Park within Americus’s beautiful residential historic district and among many fine homes of the Victorian era. The Americus Garden Inn Bed and Breakfast offers seven spacious comfortable air-conditioned rooms, in-room private baths and several guest amenities. Americus Garden Inn, 504 Rees Park, Americus, Georgia, 31709; 229-931-0122
For more on Americus, visit VisitAmericusga.com/welcome-to-americus.