9 Warmest Georgia Towns For A Winter Visit

Are you looking for an adventure-filled town in the state of Georgia to visit during January? Are you searching for that great locale that appeases the entire family while avoiding the colder temperatures? Here are nine of the coziest towns in the “Peach State” that are, on average, warm enough not to have to worry about what the temperature is all the time. From the town of Brunswick, along the coast of the Atlantic, to Bainbridge, in the southwestern corner of the state, these nine towns are home to some incredible attributes that might just allow you to leave your jacket in the car.

Brunswick

Reaching average highs of 61°F during January, picturesque Brunswick is known best for its natural attractions, like Blythe Island Regional Park, the Marshes of Glynn, and Mary Ross Waterfront Park. Ode to the weather, visitors can spend time watching crashing waves, falling leaves, and more during the winter season. Along with these nature-oriented locations that speak of a close-knit community, Brunswick is home to several places that support history, like the Historic Ritz Theater, built in 1899, Old Glynn County Courthouse, built in 1906-1907, and Hofwyl-Broadfield Plantation from the early 19th century. Visitors of Brunswick are also encouraged to stop by Lover’s Oak, a 900-year-old majestic Oak Tree in historic downtown Brunswick that shines during colder weather.

Waycross

With two historic districts and a plethora of parks in the area, the pastoral town of Waycross is an excellent place to visit during the winter season. Averaging 51°F in mid-January, this town of 14,000 permanent residents is perfect for some outdoor fun. The mild temperatures make spots like Laura S. Walker State Park, Okefenokee Heritage Center, and Okefenokee Swamp Park perfect during winter. Several other attractions call Waycross home as well, including the Okefenok, also known as “Obediah's Okefenok,” a traditional pioneer homestead from the 19th century belonging to the legendary Obediah Barber, coined the “King of the Swamp.”

Thomasville

Averaging 51°F in January, Thomasville is a great place to go in the “Peach State” if you call yourself an outdoor enthusiast. Located in southern Georgia, 35 miles from Tallahassee, this town of around 18,000 people is an oasis of natural attractions, including Cherokee Lake Park and its inclusive Rose Garden of Thomasville. Another great spot for winter fun is Elizabeth Ireland Poe Park, home to a beautiful gazebo and “The Big Oak,” one of Thomasville’s most beloved national landmarks. There are also several historic attributes in town, like Pebble Hill Plantation, showing exhibits like the Elizabeth Ireland Poe Collection and the Lapham-Patterson House, which was built in 1885 by Mr. Charles Lapham.

St. Marys

The quaint town of St. Marys, situated on the Atlantic coast and averaging 53°F in January, has many great attributes that encourage visitors to return over and over again. Crooked River State Park has some great activities, such as hiking along the Sempervirens Trail or the Bay Boardwalk Trail. Add on the comfortable winter weather, and one can spend the day snapping photographs of the distinct marshland wildlife and camping overnight for a view of the stars. Nearby, Cumberland Island National Shore, its museum, and Grover Island are phenomenal places to explore with family. Along with the outdoor activities, winter visitors can also join in for “Christmas in the Park,” a December event with holiday-themed activities, refreshments, and even a Gingerbread House Contest.

Blackshear

The small town of Blackshear is another great destination in southern Georgia, sporting an average temperature of 51°F during the coldest month of January. Founded in 1858 and named after General David Blackshear, this pastoral town of less than four thousand residents is home to the Pierce County Heritage Museum, which has some awesome exhibits displaying a variety of pioneer artifacts. It also features a Genealogical Library, containing two hundred plus books on Pierce County genealogy and how the American Civil War affected the state of Georgia. Several annual festivals are available in downtown Blackshear as well, including a delicious Venison Supper, occurring on the 16th of January. If you ever feel chilly, head to the Southern Sippin’ Cafe for a warm cappuccino and tasty croissant to keep you warm.

St. Simons

Picturesque St. Simons is one of multiple ideal locations in southern Georgia to visit during January. Outdoor attractions thrive thanks to the comfortable average temperature of 51°F at the beginning of the year. If you plan to leave when the sun is out, average highs can reach up to 60°F for a wonderful experience. Most head straight to Fort Frederica National Monument, preserving Oglethorpe’s original 18th-century fort, and Wesley Memorial & Gardens, honoring the Methodist ministry of John and Charles Wesley. If you’re looking for more history, such as the WWII Home Front Museum and the St. Simons Lighthouse Museum, the remembrance of the past is alive in St. Simons. Plus, in relation to the cultural side of St. Simons, visitors can check out the Land Trust Oyster Roast, held annually every January.

Darien

Another quaint town in Georgia, Darien, averages around 52°F in January. Located north of St. Simon Island and south of Hird Island, this small town of 1,500 permanent residents is an oasis of nature, history, and community connectivity. Being situated along the coast of the Atlantic, there are many great activities to enjoy - even in the middle of winter. From Waterfront Park, which provides an awesome view of local shrimp boats, to the Butler Island Plantation, which offers a look at history and nature. Meanwhile, history enthusiasts can enjoy the weather as they head to landmarks like the former home of Major Pierce Butler and Vernon Square, the home of several historic locales. After all the fun, drop by The Canopy Restaurant for a warm meal to make your trip amazing.

Kingsland

The pastoral town of Kingsland, located west of St. Marys and possibly one of the warmest places in Georgia during winter, reaches a high of 64°F in January and averages at around 52°F. This town of just under 20,000 people is also home to many natural parks, including Howard Peeples Park, a Veterans Memorial Park, and an exhilarating Recreation Complex that serves all of Camden County. There are also several historic venues in Kingsland, like the Florida - Georgia Railway Heritage Museum, which offers a plethora of awesome activities, including the Shipwreckers Pirate Train, the Murder Mystery Train, and even the Christmas Train, which encourage guests to return several different times of the year. Before leaving, stop by the Kingsland Shopping Center to get some unique souvenirs from your trip.

Bainbridge

The town of Bainbridge is loaded with activities catered to visitors and its 15,000 permanent residents. Known best for Willis Park, the heart of downtown, and the town’s proximity to the Flint River, Bainbridge is home to several natural, cultural, and historic attributes. A top spot is Silver Lake Wildlife Refuge, an almost ten thousand-acre piece of land where guests can enjoy its main attraction, a 250-acre scenic lake. Hiking, boating, fishing, and canoeing are among the many ways to enjoy this area under the calm winter sun. For a different experience, visit G.W. Long Farms, which offers fresh-grown produce and local beef. Plus, Willis Park, a garden-style park, has an awesome gazebo and a luxurious fountain to check out. To top it off, the town averages 52°F in January, so there is a comfortable environment to spend your time outdoors.

Conclusion

So, in conclusion, while the majority of the state of Georgia shivers, experiencing average temperatures in January that drop well below 50°F, there are a few places and locales on the coast of the Atlantic, as well as along the Florida border, that maintain an average high of 60-65°F and seldom fall below 50°F, even in January. Tourists can take the time, within the nine towns mentioned above, to stop and experience several great amenities that can be enjoyed by the entire family, even in the dead of winter.