Waycross Travel Guide

Planning a trip to Waycross in Georgia? Our comprehensive travel guide has everything you need to know to have an unforgettable experience exploring its museums, outdoor adventures, and cultural attractions.


Introduction to Waycross

Located in the Coastal Plains region of Georgia, Waycross is a city that is known for its rich history and natural beauty. The town is situated near the eastern coast of Georgia, making it a popular tourist destination for visitors who want to experience the best of the region.

List of Places to Visit in Waycross

Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or outdoor adventures, Waycross has something to offer. Here are some of the must-visit attractions in the city:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Okefenokee Heritage Center The Okefenokee Heritage Center is a museum that showcases the history and culture of the region. The museum exhibits artifacts, photographs, and documents that chronicle the history of Waycross and the surrounding areas.

  • Southern Forest World Museum and Environmental Center The Southern Forest World Museum offers visitors a unique glimpse into the world of forestry and the importance of sustainable forestry practices in the region.

Natural Attractions of Waycross: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Okefenokee Swamp The Okefenokee Swamp is one of the largest and most pristine wetlands in the world. Visitors can explore the swamp by boat or by foot, and see its unique flora and fauna up close.

  • Laura S. Walker State Park The Laura S. Walker State Park offers visitors a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, fishing, and camping. The park also features a large lake that is perfect for boating or fishing.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Waycross

If you enjoy hiking or biking, Waycross has a range of trails that you can explore. Here are some of the best:

  • Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge Trail This trail takes you through the heart of the Okefenokee Swamp, offering stunning views of the wetlands and its inhabitants.

  • Laura S. Walker State Park Trail This trail is perfect for beginners or those who want a leisurely hike. It takes you through the park’s beautiful forests and around its lake.

Best Things to Do in Waycross: Activities and Tours

Waycross offers a range of activities and tours that visitors can enjoy. Here are some of the best:

  • Okefenokee Swamp Boat Tours This tour takes you deep into the heart of the Okefenokee Swamp, where you can see its unique flora and fauna up close.

  • Waycross Motor Speedway If you’re a fan of racing, the Waycross Motor Speedway is a must-visit attraction. The speedway hosts a range of events throughout the year, including stock car racing and demolition derbies.

Week-Long Itinerary for Waycross

If you’re planning to spend a week in Waycross, here’s a sample itinerary to help you make the most of your trip:

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit the Okefenokee Heritage Center
Day 2 Explore the Okefenokee Swamp by boat tour
Day 3 Hike or bike the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge Trail
Day 4 Visit the Southern Forest World Museum and Environmental Center
Day 5 Spend the day at Laura S. Walker State Park
Day 6 Watch a race at the Waycross Motor Speedway
Day 7 Explore the city’s food and drink scene

Food and Drink Scene of Waycross

No trip to Waycross is complete without trying some of the local cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Brunswick Stew This Southern classic is a mixture of meats, vegetables, and spices, and is a local favorite in Waycross.

  • Pecan Pie Pecan pie is a sweet and buttery dessert that is made with Georgia’s famous pecans.

Local Beverages

  • Sweet Tea Sweet tea is a classic Southern beverage that is refreshing and sweet.

  • Georgia Peach Iced Tea This popular beverage combines Georgia’s favorite fruit with sweet tea for a delicious and refreshing drink.

Where to Stay in Waycross: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Waycross offers a range of accommodation options to suit every budget. Here are some of the best:

  • Holiday Inn Express
  • Comfort Suites Waycross
  • Hampton Inn Waycross
  • Guesthouse Inn

What to Buy in Waycross: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Waycross is known for its unique souvenirs and local products. Here are some of the best things to bring home:

  • Pecans
  • Handmade pottery
  • Homemade jams and jellies

Local Culture and Customs of Waycross

Waycross is a city that is proud of its Southern heritage. Visitors can expect to experience polite Southern hospitality, traditional Southern cooking, and a relaxed pace of life.

Best Time to Visit Waycross

The best time to visit Waycross is in the spring and fall, when the weather is mild and pleasant. Summer can be hot and humid, and winter can be chilly and rainy.

Do’s and Don’ts for Waycross

Here are some things to keep in mind when visiting Waycross:

Do:

  • Try local Southern cuisine
  • Explore the Okefenokee Swamp
  • Visit Waycross Motor Speedway

Don’t:

  • Forget to pack insect repellent
  • Wear clothing that is not appropriate for the humid climate
  • Fail to respect local customs and traditions

Safety and Health

Visitors to Waycross should be aware of the following:

Safety in Waycross

Waycross is a safe city, but visitors should still take normal precautions to stay safe. It’s a good idea to be aware of your surroundings and to avoid walking alone late at night in unfamiliar areas.

Health in Waycross

Visitors to Waycross should drink bottled water to avoid any potential health issues.

Getting to Waycross: Transportation Options and Logistics

Waycross is a city that is easily accessible by a range of transportation options. Here are some ways to get there:

Airports Near Waycross

The closest airports to Waycross are:

  • Jacksonville International Airport
  • Brunswick Golden Isles Airport

Bus Stations Near Waycross

Greyhound Bus Lines operates out of the Waycross Bus Station.

Other Options

Visitors can also arrive in Waycross by car or by train.

How to Get Around in Waycross

Waycross is a relatively small city, and visitors can easily get around by car or by foot.

Where to Go Next from Waycross: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to explore more of the region, here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

  • Savannah
  • Jekyll Island
  • St. Simons Island

Conclusion

Waycross is a city that is full of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re interested in exploring museums, hiking through the swamp, or enjoying some Southern cooking, there’s something for everyone in this charming city.

Waycross City Hall Waycross City Hall