St. Marys small town, offers a laid-back vibe with southern charm for a perfect relaxing retreat or a trip full of exploration! Attractions include the downtown historic districts Orange Hall Gilman Cultural Center, a Greek Revival style mansion circa 1830 and the home to a weekly community market, and the St. Marys Submarine Museum where you can dive into maritime and naval history and view the waterfront through a working periscope. 

Grab a specialty coffee and sweet treat from Kraken Coffee Kitchen or Market on the square and head out on a self-guided history tour, tree tour, or take a guided golf cart tour starting at the St. Marys Welcome Center. If you’re looking for something a little more unique join Molly’s Old South Tours for the Murder, Mayem, and Martini’s or Fugitives, Fighters, and Fudge excursions. 

You’ll enjoy being on the water, cycling, birding, and fishing on this slice of Georgia Coast heaven and planning a trip around an annual event like the Independence Day Festival, St. Marys Seafood Festival, or free concerts in the park adds built in fun to your itinerary. Make time to paddle through paradise by boat, SUP, or kayak and enjoy the natural wonders of the marsh with the help of Adventures Up the Creek and Knucklehead’s, in downtown St. Marys, who can help with tours and rentals. 

The Cumberland Island National Seashore and Crooked River State Park are visitor favorites and popular for biking, birdwatching, kayaking, hiking, camping, and more. You can visit the Cumberland Island National Seashore Museum and the Cumberland Island Visitors Center landside or take the passenger ferry from downtown St. Marys for your island adventure. And Crooked River State Park offers 4-miles of trails that wind through maritime forests and salt marsh abundant with coastal wildlife. 

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When it’s time to rest and refuel, St. Marys has diverse lodging and dining options to suit everyone. 

For some southern pampering, check into the Goodbread House Inn, a charming bed and breakfast housed in a historic building. Picture a sumptuous breakfast in the dining room followed by a front porch cup of coffee underneath the magnolia’s shade. Inside, each room is thoughtfully decorated with its own romantic theme, making your stay as memorable as your escapades. Other downtown spots are the Riverview Hotel and the Spencer House Inn. For something more modern, the SureStay by Best Western offers updated, comfortable rooms and reliable amenities.

For those who want to explore vacation rentals, we love The Federal Quarters where Aaron Burr hid after his infamous duel with Alexander Hamilton in 1804 and the contemporary vacation village at Borne 605 in the heart of downtown. When it’s time to indulge in a fresh St. Marys meal, head to one of the town’s terrific downtown restaurants. Locals Dockside, Southern River Walk, and The Firefly Taco Cantina are all fantastic eateries with a friendly, laidback vibe. The peaceful atmosphere and local flavors make dining St. Marys an inspiring experience in itself.

Located less than an hour’s drive north of Jacksonville, Florida, St. Marys small town setting is idyllic & the opportunities to enjoy the area are endless. Visit our website to plan the lodging experience, daytrip, and itinerary that works best for you.