Pediatrics Residency Program

Welcome to Macon: “The Heart of Georgia”

We are located in the vibrant “small” town of Macon, which is affectionately known as the “Heart of Georgia”. Macon is a great place to work—and live! Our residents can choose from a variety of great, affordable living spaces, from new lofts downtown, to historic apartments, to houses for rent or purchase. With a metro population that strikes the perfect balance between small-town feel and urban amenities, Macon was recognized as one of the 'Best Places to Go in 2023' by the New York Times. The U.S. Census Bureau just awarded Macon the title of "most affordable city in the United States to buy a home" in 2024, making it an affordable location for everyone to plant roots. We are a medium-sized city with a small-town appeal. Macon is the fourth largest city in Georgia and is an excellent place for your Pediatric training!

A Story of Musical Legends, Cultural Richness, and Artistic Brilliance

Macon is a haven where the soulful and groundbreaking Otis Redding and the blues-infused, rock pioneering Allman Brothers laid down roots which would shape the music industry forever. We are also the home and proud birthplace of Little Richard, and the newly famous Grammy-award winning country star, Jason Aldean. Our city’s streets are alive with the legacy of icons and the creativity of newcomers, from the literary brilliance of Tennessee Williams and Oscar Wilde to the contemporary vibes of local art festivals. Tennessee Williams wrote "Cat on a Hot Tin Roof" staying just 2 blocks away from present-day BKO Children's hospital and based the character "Big Daddy" on the owner of the house.

Our historic districts are among the best preserved in the country, and walking tours are available through Historic Macon Foundation, the Visit Macon's downtown visitor center, or Rock Candy Tours. The evocative architecture and enduring spirit of Macon’s historic districts stand as testaments to a past that enriches our present.

A Lively Town in All Seasons

Macon thrives all year round, with each season bringing its own unique flavor of fun. On "First Fridays" of each month, downtown businesses stay open late, with gallery showings, sidewalk performances and special deals at restaurants & bars.

Our city has been named the "Cherry Blossom Capital of the World," and our internationally acclaimed Cherry Blossom Festival annually features the lively tunes of our very own "Professor of Pediatrics by day, musician by night," Dr. Edward Clark!

Along with the soulful rhythms the summertime Bragg Jam, we have Macon Film Festival in August, King of Soul Festival showcasing the music of Otis Redding in September, Jazz and Arts on Riverdale in October, Skydog Festival celebrating the life of Duane Allman in November, the dazzling Macon Christmas Light Extravaganza, and so much more!

With the Georgia National Fair in October being just 30 minutes away, and our Atrium Health Amphitheater hosting abundance concerts and shows, it's safe to say there’s always something to see here.

Arts&Culture

The Museum of Arts and Sciences has a planetarium and the Tubman African American Museum hosts both "All That Jazz" in January&a Pan-African Festival in April. House museums include "The Big House" of the Allman brothers, Hay House, and the "Cannonball" House year-round, with special event home tours at Christmas&the annual Garden Tour in May.

Our historic City Auditorium, Grand Opera House, Coliseum, Wesleyan College and Mercer University offer continuous opportunities to enjoy concerts, plays, shows and exhibits.

Hometown artist Jason Aldean featured Macon in his video for "Gonna Know We Were Here." Hollywood loves Macon and you might see familiar places if you watch "The Walking Dead," "The Watchmen," or "Hillbilly Elegy." Several Marvel comic book artists (The Amazing Spiderman, etc) live in town&will do commissions on request if you catch them downtown for events.

A Hub for Gastronomy and Outdoor Adventures

The great outdoors is easily accessible with natural trails, State Parks, and National Historical Sites like the historical Ocmulgee Mounds offering a perfect setting for hiking and mountain biking. Macon has several great parks that allow leashed pets & large fenced "leash free" dog park too. Cyclists can cover more than 16 miles of protected trails without leaving city limits, and the local state parks have biking & hiking trails as well. Meanwhile, our lakes and rivers provide opportunities for picturesque kayaking and fishing trips. Macon offers both coastal and mountain access being within 3 hours driving distance either way.

Locals love our farmer's markets & food co-op services, as well as nearby "Pick Your Own" Berry farms. Macon's city water source has been voted 2nd best-tasting in the country, which makes us a natural home to multiple craft breweries.

More of a fan of airconditioned events? Visit the World’s Largest Indoor Pickleball Facility- right here in Macon, GA!

On those golden weekends or vacation, we have a smaller Middle Georgia Regional Airport and are only 2 hours away from Atlanta International Airport for any of your traveling needs!

Macon: Your New Home

For all of us, Macon has offered us a community where we could thrive. Between the affordable cost of living and easy access to adventure and relaxation, we know Macon is not just a city to live in—it's a city to love. If you're curious about something in particular not mentioned here, reach out to ask us more to see if Macon would be the ideal backdrop to your next big adventure.