If your idea of a nice, relaxing getaway includes moss-draped live oaks by the water, quiet historic parks, charming bed-and-breakfasts, and sunsets framed by returning shrimp boats, Darien, GA., deserves a spot on your map.
This small coastal town is Georgia’s second oldest city with a lot to offer, such as birding, biking, boating, and fishing across five winding rivers and vast marshlands, along with barrier island adventures, sea kayaking, and river tours. Add in authentic colonial forts, fresh local seafood, rich Gullah-Geechee and Scottish heritage, and the easy pace of small-town coastal life, and Darien reveals itself as a place meant to be savored, not rushed.
A one hour drive north, you will find Savannah, GA, and a one hour drive to the south, you will be in Jacksonville, Florida. Darien, GA, is the perfect place for a day trip if you are in the mood for exploring nature and history.
Table of Contents
- History of Darien
- Attractions
- Outdoor Adventure
- Blessing of the Fleet Festival
- Restaurants
- Where is Darien, Georgia?
History of Darien
The city of Darien dates back to the early 1700’s as a Scottish settlement. Right outside of town is Fort King George, the oldest English fort in Georgia, which you get to visit and explore. Darien’s roots run deep into the Revolutionary War and the Civil War. Atlanta wasn’t the only town in Georgia that was burned during the Civil War. The movie “Glory” tells the story of the burning of Darien.
In the very early days, Darien was a colonial port. Today, it is a thriving shrimp port and a historic place rich in history, welcoming visitors.
Attractions
Fort King George
Fort King George originally served as an outpost for the British in the early 1700s on the Altamaha River. After the fort was abandoned, General James Oglethorpe brought Scottish Highlanders to the site in 1736. The settlement, called Darien, eventually became a foremost export center of lumber until 1925.
Today, because of restoration, you can experience a tour of the grounds and structures that include: a blockhouse, officers’ quarters, barracks, a guardhouse, a moat, and palisades. Visit the museum, where you can also learn the history of the area and its inhabitants.
Wifi is available at Fort King George, as well as a hiking trail, picnic area, and it’s a good place for birding. If you are a bird nerd, bring your binoculars.
Ashantilly Center
Ashantilly, or Old Tabby as the locals call it, is a non-profit educational and cultural center. They host a variety of events throughout the year, including book signings and hands-on workshops for the printing press.
The original house on the property was owned by a local prominent citizen. Unfortunately, it burned in 1937. The current house on the property is a work of passion by the family of William G. Haynes Jr., an artist, printmaker, and environmentalist. Haynes promoted art, history, and preservation, all of which continue at Ashantilly today.
Old Jail Art Center and Museum
The Old Jail and Museum is located in historic downtown Darien. Admission is currently free. Tour the old jail, shop in the gift shop, or take a class.
Smallest Church in America
Located on US Hwy. 17 South and I-95 Exit 67 in Darien, this 190 square foot structure is open year-round with free admission. Originally built as a place for meditation and rest by a local grocer way back in 1949.
An arson burned down the original building, but locals quickly donated enough to rebuild. The church is complete with beautiful stained glass windows imported from England. You can visit Christ’s Chapel in Memory Park near the South Newport River. Local ministers lead a non-denominational worship there every third Sunday. There is free parking on site.
Outdoor Adventure
Sapelo Island
Visit Sapelo Island, a barrier island that is rich in cultural and natural history. Only accessible by boat, you will need to make a reservation to ride the ferry. Learn more here. Sapelo Island is a great place for birding along the trail or exploring the visitor’s center.
Harris Neck Wildlife Refuge
Are you a bird nerd? Bring your binoculars and spend the day at Harris Neck Wildlife Refuge, where nearly 350 species of birds can be found. With any luck, you may see the threatened wood storks, which nest in a large colony on Woody Pond, and the colorful and uncommon painted bunting.
Harris Neck Wildlife Refuge also provides nesting, foraging, and wintering habitat for a diversity of wildlife. So, you see, enjoying the great outdoors can be beneficial even in the winter months.
Fishing and Boating
Bird Nerds are not the only ones to enjoy McIntosh County; anglers will enjoy this fisherman’s paradise.
Go here to learn more about where to find a chartered fishing excursion. You can also book a wine tour, nature tour, or even a private charter to a remote beach.
Related: The 7 Natural Wonders of Georgia You Can Visit
Golf
If the fish are not biting, there is always golf. Sapelo Hammock Golf Club features the most scenic views on its challenging 18-hole course. You may be distracted by the views that include marshland, local wildlife, and coastal scenery. Available for your pleasure are the Clubhouse, Pro Shop, Cafe, and a Condo rental that sleeps up to four guests.
Waterfront Park
Located near the intersection of I-95 and Broad Street, you will find the picturesque Waterfront Park. Live oaks and cabbage palms set the mood for relaxation as you peer across the Altamaha River. Pack a picnic and bring the kids. There is a playground area and picnic tables for you to enjoy. This is the perfect spot to watch a sunset with the family, snap some Instagram photos, and simply relax and enjoy the coastal scenery.
Blessing of the Fleet Festival
Darien is home to a thriving shrimping industry. Therefore, one of the premier events of the year is the festival known as The Blessing of the Fleet. Held in the spring each year, the boats will be all decked out in decorations for the annual event. There are many attractions for this three-day festival, including food vendors, music, arts and crafts, an art show, a car show, children’s activities, and a 5K.
Related: Big List of Fall Fairs and Festivals in Georgia
Restaurants
Local restaurants offer a wide variety of flavors for your taste buds. Seafood tops the list, and most feature a ‘Catch of the Day’. See our list of Places Where The Locals Eat in Darien, GA.
Darien, Georgia, is a small, historic coastal town with a warm welcome and a rich history dating back to the early 1700s. If you love historic America, can’t pass up a quiet coastal gem, and maybe enjoy good fresh seafood, add Darien, Ga., to your travel adventures bucket list.
Where is Darien, Georgia?
Darien, Ga., is a coastal town along Georgia’s Golden Isles.
From Atlanta to Darien: Take I-75 South until you get to Macon. Take Exit 165 for I-16 East towards Savannah. There is a massive road construction project going on in Macon in the area, so slow down. You will travel down I-16 east until just outside of Savannah at Exit 157A, where you will merge onto I-95 South towards Brunswick/Jacksonville. Approximately a 4 1/2 to 5-hour drive, depending on the traffic. Stop in Macon or Dublin to stretch your legs and get a bite to eat.
RELATED: Where The Locals Eat in Macon, GA.
RELATED: Where The Locals Eat in Dublin, GA.
From Washington D.C.: Take I-95 south for about 9 or 10 hours, depending on traffic and how many stops you make. If you are on your way to Florida, stop in Darien, spend the night, explore, eat, and relax.
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Visit Discover Darien for more information.
