Brunswick, Georgia: Rainy Day Activities

If you're looking for things to do in Brunswick, Georgia, on a rainy day, there are plenty of options to keep you entertained. From exploring historic sites and unique downtown shops to embracing the great outdoors, here's a list of suggestions for a grey day in this charming port city:

- Visit the Historic Ritz Theatre for year-round live performances, films, and exhibits.

- Take a rum tasting tour at Richland Rum.

- Explore the unique shops and restaurants of downtown Brunswick.

- Discover the beautiful marina-front park, Mary Ross Waterfront Park, which hosts a variety of festivals and events throughout the year.

- Try your hand at shrimping aboard the Lady Jane, the only certified passenger-carrying shrimp vessel on the East Coast.

- For stunning views, head to the Brunswick Landing Marina and take in the sunset over the Sidney Lanier Bridge.

- Get active with indoor activities like paintball, escape rooms, or a visit to the quirky Expedition: Bigfoot museum.

- Sample locally sourced beers at a brewery like Silver Bluff Brewing.

Visit the Historic Ritz Theatre for year-round performances, films, and exhibits

If you're looking for something to do in Brunswick, Georgia, on a rainy day, why not visit the Historic Ritz Theatre for some indoor entertainment? The theatre offers a variety of year-round performances, films, and exhibits, so you're sure to find something that piques your interest.

The Historic Ritz Theatre is located in the heart of Brunswick's historic downtown area. The theatre first opened its doors in 1898 as the Grand Opera House, and today, it is managed and operated by the Golden Isles Arts and Humanities Association. The theatre is dedicated to bringing performing arts, films, and cultural experiences to the Coastal Georgia community.

Throughout the year, the Historic Ritz Theatre hosts a variety of live performances, including plays, concerts, and other cultural events. Local and regional artists, writers, and actors showcase their talents in this intimate setting. The theatre also screens films, offering a mix of classic movies, independent releases, and film festival selections. Be sure to check their calendar of events to see what's playing during your visit.

In addition to performances and films, the Historic Ritz Theatre also features exhibits that showcase the talent and history of the local community. You can explore art installations, photography displays, and historical artefacts that celebrate the rich cultural heritage of Brunswick and the surrounding area. The theatre is committed to providing educational programs and opportunities for people of all ages to engage in the arts.

Whether you're a performing arts enthusiast or just looking for a fun way to spend a rainy day, the Historic Ritz Theatre has something for everyone. The theatre's diverse offerings provide entertainment, enrichment, and a chance to learn something new. So, the next time you're in Brunswick and the sky turns grey, head to the Historic Ritz Theatre for a cultural experience that will brighten your day.

Explore the Brunswick Actors Theatre in the heart of downtown

If you're looking for something to do in Brunswick, Georgia, on a rainy day, why not explore the Brunswick Actors' Theatre in the heart of downtown? Here are some reasons why this intimate theatre is worth a visit:

• Architecture and Location: The theatre is located in the vibrant and historic downtown area of Brunswick, where you can also find unique shops and restaurants. The theatre itself is a boutique space with 113 seats, providing an up-close and personal experience for viewers.
• Cultural Significance: The Brunswick Actors' Theatre showcases local and regional talent, including artists, writers, and actors. It provides a platform for the community's creative expressions and offers a diverse range of performances throughout the year.
• Seasonality: The theatre hosts a 6-show season, ensuring there is always something new and exciting to watch. From plays like "Second Samuel" and "Anatomy of Gray" to special events like "A Christmas Carol" during the holidays, there is sure to be a performance to captivate your imagination.
• Art Gallery: In addition to the theatre, the SoGlo Gallery, located within the same space, represents contemporary Georgia artists on a national and international level. You can explore and appreciate their artwork before or after a show, making your visit a well-rounded cultural experience.
• Accessibility: The Brunswick Actors' Theatre is located at 1413 Newcastle Street, and it provides easy access to its performances and exhibitions. With its central location and commitment to showcasing local talent, the theatre is a beloved fixture in Brunswick's cultural scene.

So, the next time you're in Brunswick, Georgia, and the weather isn't cooperating, head over to the Brunswick Actors' Theatre for an enriching and entertaining experience. With its diverse performances, talented artists, and convenient location, it's an excellent way to spend a rainy day in the heart of downtown Brunswick.

Tour the historic Hofwyl-Broadfield Plantation

If you're looking for things to do in Brunswick, Georgia, on a rainy day, why not visit the Hofwyl-Broadfield Plantation? This historic site represents the history and culture of Georgia's rice coast and is packed with fascinating stories of the people who once lived and worked there.

The plantation was established in the early 1800s by William Brailsford of Charleston, who transformed marshland along the Altamaha River into a rice plantation. Brailsford and his descendants were part of the low country society that flourished during the antebellum period. The plantation was originally named Broadface, but in 1806, Brailsford purchased the land and renamed it Broadfield. The main house, built in the 1850s, was named Hofwyl, and the complete plantation became known as Hofwyl-Broadfield.

At its peak, the plantation produced rice with over 7,000 acres of land and the forced labour of more than 350 enslaved people, primarily from West Africa, specifically Senegal and Sierra Leone. This continued until the end of the American Civil War in 1865, after which cultivating rice became increasingly challenging due to the unavailability of enslaved labour. The family persisted in growing rice until 1913, when they transitioned to dairy farming to preserve their legacy.

Today, the plantation is a State Historic Site managed by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources. Visitors can explore a museum featuring silver from the family collection and a model of the plantation during its prime. A short film about the plantation's history is shown before visitors embark on a trail to the antebellum home. The guided tour offers a glimpse into the home as it was kept by Ophelia Dent, the last heir, complete with family heirlooms, antique furniture, and Cantonese china. The nature trail then leads back to the Visitor Centre, passing through the marshland that once flourished with rice.

The Hofwyl-Broadfield Plantation is a testament to the resilience of generations who adapted to changing circumstances. It also serves as a reminder of the dark history of slavery and its impact on the region's agriculture and society. The site is open Tuesday through Sunday from 9 am to 5 pm, with the last main house tour at 4 pm. Admission prices vary based on age, with special rates for seniors and youth.

Take a self-guided walking tour of Brunswick

If you're looking for things to do in Brunswick, Georgia, on a rainy day, there are plenty of options to choose from. One great suggestion is to take a self-guided walking tour of the city and explore its rich history and unique downtown area. Here's a detailed itinerary for your self-guided walking tour:

Start at the Historic Ritz Theatre

Begin your tour at the Historic Ritz Theatre, a beloved cultural landmark in Brunswick. The theatre was originally built in 1898 as the Grand Opera House and has since been a hub for live performances, films, exhibits, and educational programs. Check out the memorabilia adorning the walls and imagine the vibrant entertainment of the mid-1900s.

Stroll Through Downtown Brunswick

From the Historic Ritz Theatre, make your way to the unique downtown area of Brunswick. Explore the variety of shops and restaurants that line the streets. You'll find everything from quaint boutiques to charming eateries serving up delicious local cuisine. As you walk, admire the beautiful architecture of the buildings, reflecting a range of styles dating back to 1819.

Visit the Brunswick Landing Marina

Head towards the Brunswick Landing Marina, a stunning waterfront location. Take in the views of the Sidney Lanier Bridge and the sparkling marina. If you're lucky enough to visit during sunset, you'll be treated to a breathtaking display of colours reflecting off the water. It's the perfect spot for photographs and a relaxing walk.

Discover the Mary Ross Waterfront Park

Just adjacent to the marina is the Mary Ross Waterfront Park. This picturesque park hosts a variety of festivals and events throughout the year, such as the Brunswick Rockin' Stewbilee and the Rhythm on the River concert series. It's a great place to relax, enjoy the fresh air, and take in the local atmosphere.

Explore the Historic Squares

As you continue your walk, you'll notice that Brunswick is laid out in a formal grid similar to Savannah's. The city streets and squares bear their original colonial names, adding to the charm. Wander through these historic squares, imagining the stories and lives of those who walked these paths before you.

Sample Local Seafood

No visit to Brunswick is complete without indulging in its famous seafood. With its rich seafood industry, you'll find an array of restaurants serving up fresh catches of the day. Treat yourself to a delicious meal and savour the unique flavours of Brunswick's culinary offerings.

Taking a self-guided walking tour of Brunswick is a wonderful way to immerse yourself in the city's history, culture, and charm. Remember to wear comfortable shoes and bring an umbrella or raincoat to keep the rain at bay!

Visit Richland Rum for a tour and tasting

If you're looking for things to do in Brunswick, Georgia, on a rainy day, why not try a tour and tasting at Richland Rum? Located in historic downtown Brunswick, Richland Rum is Georgia's only rum distillery, handcrafting single-estate Old Georgia Rum from estate-grown, unrefined sugar cane.

The distillery offers a variety of tours that will take you behind the scenes of the rum-making process. Here is what you need to know:

The Tours

Richland Rum offers three types of tours: the Distiller's Experience Tour, the Expressions Tour, and the Complimentary Tour.

• The Distiller's Experience Tour lasts approximately 45 minutes and includes a rare glimpse into the traditional techniques and artisan methods used by the distiller. This tour takes you to the Distillery, Fermentation Room, and Barrel House, concluding with a tasting flight of rare, specially selected Richland Rum Expressions.
• The Expressions Tour focuses on the artistry required to create each Richland Rum Expression. This 30-minute tour also covers the Distillery, Fermentation Room, and Barrel House, and ends with a traditional tasting flight of five Richland Rum Expressions.
• The Complimentary Tour is a shorter, 15-minute option that provides an overview of the traditional processes, artisan equipment, and the people behind Richland Rum.

The Tastings

After your chosen tour, you will have the opportunity to taste Richland Rum's award-winning spirits. Their signature rum is described as having complex flavours, with notes of caramel and oak, resulting in an extra smooth sipping rum. In addition to their classic expression, Richland Rum also offers a range of limited editions and private barrel selections that are only available at their distilleries.

Booking

You can book your tour directly on the Richland Rum website. Be sure to check their website and social media for updates on special events, such as their Father's Day Rum & Cigars celebration, which includes live music, food, distillery tours, and more.

Frequently asked questions