The welcome center will provide you with a free map indicating the main points of interest, which include the waterfront off Bay Street, with its bustling docks and fleet of shrimp boats. Oceangoing freighters are often seen here.
The Lanier Oak, along U.S. 17, off Lanier Boulevard, is said to be the tree where the Georgia poet Sidney Lanier was inspired to write The Marshes of Glynn. Another tree, the 9-century-old Lover's Oak, at Albany and Prince streets, is also a source of pride for the town.
After dark, the big attractions are the dinner and casino cruises aboard the Emerald Princess (tel. 800/842-0115; www.emeraldprincesscasino.com). Bookings can be made at the Golden Isles Cruise Lines, 1 St. Andrews Court in Brunswick (tel. 912/265-3558). This 200-foot luxury cruiser offers dining, dancing, and live entertainment on one level, and a full casino with slot machines, poker, blackjack, craps, and roulette on another level. After departure, the ship sails out past the 3-mile limit, where the casino then opens for business. Cruises depart from Golden Isles Cruise Lines docks at the Brunswick Landing Marina (Newcastle and K sts.).
Reservations are not required, but you should make them anyway just to be on the safe side. The rate is $10 per person. Cruise hours are Monday to Thursday 7pm to midnight, Friday and Saturday 7pm to 1am, and Sunday 1 to 6pm. A special Saturday-morning departure leaves at 11am and returns at 4pm. All cruises offer a full meal at sea, with music, dancing, and games such as scavenger hunts. Call ahead for special summer deals.
