St. Marys Perhaps best known as the gateway city to pristine Cumberland Island , the coastal town of St. Marys draws visitors with a host of natural attractions. Three rivers—the St. Marys, the Crooked and the North—and the Cumberland Sound come together here, making it a popular destination for fishing and boating. Birdwatchers flock here, too, as they travel Georgia’s Colonial Coast Birding Trail , along which more than 300 species have been spotted. New gardens and walking paths enhance the downtown, home to a charming bookstore ( Once Upon a Bookseller ), a vibrant art gallery ( Olde Towne Gallery ) and a handful of antiques dealers. Continue on foot to the nearby St. Marys History Walk and discover local history—from Timucua settlements in the 1500s to the shipbuilding industry of the 19th and 20th centuries—from a series of interpretive panels set along the shaded trail. Discover more about the town’s maritime legacy at the St. Marys Submarine Museum , where visitors can get a feel for life aboard a sub, or walk with a guide from Molly’s Old South Tours to explore St. Marys’ legacy of lawlessness from centuries past (tours are also available on Cumberland Island). Eat The friendly Riverside Cafe features Greek classics like moussaka (eggplant and ground beef), piled-high sammies, and seafood platters boasting jumbo shrimp and fried cod. Sleep GOODBREAD HOUSE B&B, ST. MARYS/BENJAMIN GALLAND Built in 1916, the stately Riverview Hotel shines as a beacon for Southern hospitality. Settle in on the veranda or head downstairs to Seagle’s Saloon for a cocktail with the locals. Do Book a ride on the Cumberland Island Ferry , which departs from St. Marys for day trips on Georgia’s largest barrier island. The 45-minute ride is itself a great way to experience the area’s natural wonders (keep an eye out for the wild horses). 60 #EXPLOREGEORGIA
Official State Travel Guide 2024 Georgia Official State Travel Guide: Page 60
