Portal GeorgiaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Portal, Georgia.
1. George L. Smith State Park
SCENIC OUTDOOR RECREATION
George L. Smith State Park offers visitors a picturesque landscape featuring a beautiful mill pond surrounded by cypress trees. The park provides numerous recreational activities including fishing, boating, hiking, and camping in a serene natural environment. Its restored Parrish Mill and dam, built in 1880, serves as a fascinating historical centerpiece that attracts history enthusiasts and photographers alike.
2. JumpShot Indoor Trampolines and Paintball
ACTIVE ENTERTAINMENT CENTER
JumpShot Indoor Trampolines and Paintball provides an exciting entertainment venue featuring both trampoline courts and paintball arenas. Visitors can enjoy high-energy activities suitable for various age groups in a climate-controlled environment. The facility offers special events, group packages, and party options making it a popular destination for families and friends seeking active fun.
3. Eagle Creek Brewing Company
CRAFT BEER DESTINATION
Eagle Creek Brewing Company stands as Statesboro's premier craft brewery offering a selection of handcrafted beers in a relaxed atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy brewery tours, tastings, and a taproom experience that showcases both flagship and seasonal brews. The brewery frequently hosts live music events and food trucks, creating a vibrant community gathering spot for locals and tourists alike.
4. Guido Gardens
PEACEFUL SPIRITUAL RETREAT
Guido Gardens offers a tranquil six-acre sanctuary featuring beautiful landscaping, fountains, and inspirational displays. The gardens include the Chapel of Prayer, biblical scenes, and seasonal light displays during Christmas. Visitors can enjoy self-guided tours of this peaceful retreat founded by the late Reverend Michael Guido, known for his "Seeds from the Sower" ministry.
5. Portal Heritage Turpentine Museum
LOCAL HISTORY PRESERVED
The Portal Heritage Turpentine Museum preserves the rich history of the turpentine industry that once thrived in this region of Georgia. Displays include original equipment, photographs, and artifacts that tell the story of this important economic driver for Portal and surrounding communities. Visitors can learn about the naval stores industry and its significant impact on the development of the American South.
6. Splash in the Boro
FAMILY WATER PARK
Splash in the Boro is a family-friendly waterpark featuring multiple pools, water slides, a lazy river, and splash zones for younger children. The facility offers swimming lessons, water aerobics classes, and hosts special events throughout the summer season. Its affordable pricing and variety of attractions make it a popular cooling-off destination for families in the region during Georgia's hot summer months.
7. Portal Farmers Market
FRESH LOCAL PRODUCE
Portal Farmers Market connects local farmers with community members seeking fresh, locally-grown produce and handcrafted goods. The market operates seasonally and features a variety of vendors selling vegetables, fruits, honey, baked goods, and artisanal crafts. Visitors appreciate the authentic small-town atmosphere and opportunity to support local agricultural producers.
8. Botanic Garden at Georgia Southern
EDUCATIONAL PLANT COLLECTION
The Botanic Garden at Georgia Southern University spans 11 acres featuring native plants, themed gardens, and walking trails accessible to the public. Educational programs, workshops, and seasonal events make this living museum a center for environmental education and appreciation. The garden's historic farmstead buildings, including the restored Weathervane Barn, provide glimpses into the agricultural heritage of the region.
9. Southern Pottery & Art Gallery
LOCAL ARTISAN SHOWCASE
Southern Pottery & Art Gallery showcases works from local artisans with an emphasis on traditional and contemporary pottery techniques. The gallery features rotating exhibitions and offers workshops where visitors can learn pottery skills from experienced artists. This cultural venue serves as a creative hub for the Portal community and draws art enthusiasts from surrounding areas.
10. Portal Historic District
PRESERVED SMALL-TOWN CHARM
Portal Historic District encompasses several blocks of well-preserved early 20th century buildings that reflect the town's development following its 1914 incorporation. Walking tours allow visitors to admire historic commercial structures and residences that showcase architectural styles from the era. Interpretive markers throughout the district provide insights into Portal's agricultural past and community development.
11. Mill Creek Regional Park
SPORTS AND RECREATION COMPLEX
Mill Creek Regional Park offers extensive recreational facilities including baseball fields, soccer fields, tennis courts, and walking trails. The park hosts tournaments and community sporting events throughout the year, drawing participants from across the region. Families appreciate the playground areas, picnic facilities, and open green spaces perfect for casual outdoor enjoyment.
12. Emma's Restaurant & Lounge
SOUTHERN COMFORT FOOD
Emma's Restaurant & Lounge serves authentic Southern cuisine featuring farm-to-table ingredients in a warm, welcoming atmosphere. The menu highlights traditional recipes passed down through generations, including their renowned fried chicken and seasonal vegetable plates. Locals and visitors alike gather here not only for memorable meals but also for the restaurant's reputation as a community gathering place.
13. Portal Creek Outfitters
OUTDOOR ADVENTURE GEAR
Portal Creek Outfitters provides specialized equipment and guidance for outdoor enthusiasts exploring the natural areas surrounding Portal. The shop offers fishing gear, camping equipment, and local guidebooks alongside expert advice about nearby recreational opportunities. Their knowledgeable staff regularly organizes guided excursions for fishing, kayaking, and wildlife observation in the region's waterways and forests.
14. Statesboro Museum of Art
REGIONAL ART COLLECTION
Statesboro Museum of Art houses an impressive collection of works by Southern artists with special emphasis on Georgia creators. The museum offers rotating exhibitions, educational programs, and art classes for all ages in its modern gallery spaces. Its community outreach initiatives have established the museum as a cultural cornerstone for the region, bringing art appreciation to residents and visitors alike.
15. Portal Antique Mall
VINTAGE TREASURE HUNTING
Portal Antique Mall houses dozens of vendor booths offering everything from vintage furniture and collectibles to rare memorabilia and handcrafted items. Treasure hunters can spend hours exploring the carefully curated collections that reflect the region's rich history and cultural heritage. The friendly atmosphere and knowledgeable dealers make this a must-visit destination for antique enthusiasts and casual shoppers alike.