Echoes of the Past

South Georgia is full of stories—some joyful, some complicated, all powerful. Its churches, courthouses, and communities have witnessed marches, milestones, and moments that helped shape the soul of the American South. With a history that stretches from slavery to Civil Rights, from blues to gospel, and from resistance to resilience, this itinerary offers travelers the chance to connect with the past in places where history still echoes on the streets.

Each stop on this journey opens a window into the lived experiences of generations of people of all backgrounds. It’s a chance for visitors to deepen their understanding of Southern history and culture while being welcomed by communities eager to share their truths.

Morning: Dublin, GA

Begin in Dublin, a city where one of America’s most powerful voices first found its sound. At the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Monument Park, visitors can stand on the steps of First African Baptist Church, where a 15-year-old Martin Luther King, Jr. delivered his very first public speech in 1944. The site is both moving and humble—and the perfect place to begin a Civil Rights-focused journey.

Using Dublin’s self-guided walking tour, travelers can explore additional heritage sites throughout the city, including Old City Cemetery, which dates back to the early 1800s and marks the final resting place of soldiers of many significant battles, including the Revolutionary War and the Civil War.

Morning: Albany, GA (1.5 hr drive from Valdosta)

Albany is one of South Georgia’s most compelling cities for Civil Rights and Black history. Begin at the Albany Civil Rights Institute, a powerful museum that tells the story of the Albany Movement—one of the earliest organized Civil Rights campaigns in the South. Visitors will hear firsthand accounts, view archival footage, and explore exhibits that detail Albany’s role in desegregation.

Just across the street is Old Mt. Zion Baptist Church, where Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. once preached and mass meetings were held to inspire change. For an even deeper connection to the music of the movement, walk down to the Ray Charles Plaza, where a life-size statue of the Albany native sits at a baby grand piano. Push a button and hear his songs play into the open air, carried by the breeze over the Flint River.

Group-friendly Stops

Copeland African American Museum, Albany Civil Rights Institute, Dublin’s walking tour

Take-Home Souveniers

Stogie’s cigars, historic booklets from museums

Drive Times

Dublin → Valdosta: 2.5 hrs

Valdosta → Albany: 1.5 hrs

Best for

History-focused tours, educational groups, socially conscious travelers, cultural heritage experiences

Optional Add-On

Tie this itinerary into a longer Civil Rights Trail across Georgia.

Optional Add-On for Day 1

From Dublin, take the scenic route on Hwy. 441 South to experience & taste more of the real Georgia. See the little Statue of Liberty in McRae-Helena, stop by and travel back to WWII at Douglas’ historic WWII Flight Training Base (also on the Georgia WWII Heritage Trail), then head on to Valdosta.