A First-Timers Guide to Experiencing Liberty County Like a Local
Photo courtesy of Bobby Cary
There’s nothing quite as exciting as getting to explore a new location for the first time, but we all know sometimes planning a first-time trip can be a bit daunting. You want to make sure you see as much as you can while still relaxing because after all, it is a vacation! So we decided to put together a list of places to visit, plates to eat and experiences you will remember for a lifetime. So sit back, relax and enjoy Liberty County like a local!!
Explore the Outdoors
Photo courtesy of Camera Koala
We have no shortage of outdoor activities here in Liberty County to include birding, biking, kayaking and walking trails. One of our favorite walking trails is the Cay Creek Wetlands Interpretive Center located in Midway. The center features a 7/10ths of a mile boardwalk that takes you through the freshwater wetlands into the saltwater marsh. Experience the change of plants and wildlife as you get closer to the brackish waters of Cay Creek. You will also find a 15-foot watchtower that gives you a bird’s eye view of the wetlands.
In the heart of Hinesville, you will find the perfect opportunity to slow down and enjoy the great outdoors. Bryant Commons is a passive park that has a long list of amenities to include a walking trail around a large pond, fishing, playground, dog park, Veterans Memorial walk and public facilities. The beautiful grounds are also the perfect place for a picnic lunch or even flying a kite on a windy day.
A Fresh Catch
Photo courtesy of Tammy Lee Bradley
Liberty County has a unique blend of terrain that stretches from forests of pines and ancient oaks to the marshes and seashore of the Atlantic. Our waterfront view of the ocean means local seafood is as fresh as it gets! The Sunbury Crab Company is a family owned restaurant that is a local favorite and makes daily runs for fresh blue crab which you can get by the bucket. The restaurant not only has a fantastic menu but also a breath-taking view of the Medway River.
Step back in Time
Did you know the only colonial museum in all of Georgia is right here in Liberty County?!? The Midway Museum, built in 1959, is a replica of what a typical plantation house in this era would have looked like in the 1700s. The house is filled will artifacts and is staffed with volunteers who can give you an insight of daily life for early Liberty County inhabitants. The museum also neighbors the Midway Congregational Church and cemetery which both hold history of their own to explore!
Photo courtesy of Fort Morris
Venture closer to the coast to find Fort Morris, an American Revolutionary war fort that features earthwork defenses and an incredible view of St. Catherines Sound. The fort and museum offer a glimpse into the past where Col. John McIntosh shouted the famous words “Come and Take It” to British troops when asked to surrender the fort. You also have the opportunity to partake in birding as Liberty County is home to a wide variety of bird species.
Discover Hinesville’s Historic Downtown
Photo courtesy of the City of Hinesville
Shopping, history, a seasonal farmers market and events are some of many reasons to visit the charming downtown district of Hinesville. Shops and restaurants can be found tucked away into the historic buildings that have watched the rest of this bustling city grow while maintaining its graceful, Southern charm. Giant oaks dripping with Spanish moss mingle with the brick buildings to create the perfect atmosphere for an afternoon of shopping, dining and exploring! Be sure to check our community calendar here to see if there are any upcoming events during your stay, the festivals and block parties are something you will not want to miss!!
African-American Heritage Trail
The culture and history of our area is heavily influenced by African-American heritage, and we can’t get enough of it! If you head towards the eastern end of the county the first historic site you will find is Dorchester Academy. One of only 11 stops in Georgia on the U.S. Civil Rights trail, Dorchester Academy holds tremendous significance to the US Civil Rights Movements and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Dr. King and fellow Civil Rights leaders such as Dr. Ralph Abernathy utilized the Academy as a place to help plan important aspects of the Movement. Dorchester also serves as an African-American history museum, and you can see the room Dr. King stayed in during his time in Liberty County!
Riceboro features two major heritage sites – the Historic Baptismal Trail and Geechee Kunda. At the Historic Baptismal Trail, you will find a boardwalk surrounded by nature that still seems to sing the songs of old. Geechee ancestors walked this same path and baptized new members into their faith at this site for almost 100 years.
Photo courtesy of Tammy Lee Bradley
Geechee Kunda is not only unique but incredibly meaningful in sharing African culture with the public. Preserving customs brought to America from Africa, the goal is to educate visitors while also entertaining them. The museum and site also hosts numerous community events each year celebrating the African and Geechee cultures.
Taste the World
We here in Liberty County proudly announce that we are home to Ft. Stewart and the 3rd Infantry Division! The military has brought us not only amazing people but also a wealth of culture to mingle in with our Southern roots. Although our fried chicken and fresh seafood are mouthwatering – we also have incredible options for cuisine from around the world!
Photo courtesy of Tammy Lee Bradley
If you head downtown you will find Zum Rosenhof German Restaurant that features a menu full of authentic cuisine, as well as imported beer you can drink out of a glass boot! Don’t forget to check out the SpeiseKammer (German for pantry) right next door which is filled to the brim with imported goodies such as sweets, beer, meats, seasonings and even healthcare items!
Photo courtesy of Tara Ruby Photography
Want something from this side of the pond? Good 2 Go Jamaican restaurant is our little slice of Caribbean paradise! As soon as you walk in the door you are greeted with an incredibly friendly staff and tantalizing smells of curry, jerk spices and even plantains! Good to Go also has a collection of imported items including sodas, seasonings and even a special type of hot sauce only found in the Caribbean!
