A community with harness racing and a changing downtown
Hawkinsville, the seat of Pulaski County, has been a winter haven for equestrians for over 100 years. "Hawkinsville is rural, like other nearby communities. But they have harness racing and a racing facility," says Jillinda Falen, a Realtor with Landmark Realty who has served the region for 18 years. The city is home to The Hawkinsville Training Centre, the state's only Standardbred Harness training center. The community dates to the late 1800s and has multiple long-standing landmarks and homes. Residents visit the city center for shopping and community events. "There are a lot of antique shops and some places to eat. Hawkinsville has experienced somewhat of a renaissance within the last few years," Falen says. The community is a part of the national Main Street program, managed by the Hawkinsville Chamber of Commerce. The program supports the central business district. Recent projects have included mural restorations, updated signage and the development of a new city hall.
A range of home options and regional weather trends
Buyers find a range of housing styles in Hawkinsville, from recently constructed homes in subdivisions to private dwellings on wooded lots. Hawkinsville contains ranch-style houses and cottages. There are also historic homes dating to the early 1900s; these dwellings are a mix of Craftsman bungalows and Queen Anne influences. The city recently approved zoning for around 55 new single-family homes near downtown. Hawkinsville home prices depend on the acreage and the build date. Residences constructed between the 1990s and the 2020s range from about $150,000 to $500,000. Older homes cost between $150,000 and $400,000.
The area has a history of tornadoes and hurricanes, which can cause damaging winds that may affect properties. The region is also at risk of flooding and wildfires.
Enjoying the Ocmulgee and downtown green spaces
The community provides ample opportunities for outdoor recreation. The Ocmulgee River flows through the eastern side of the community. The waterway is a hot spot for boating and fishing. "There's public access to the river for fishing and kayaking. And there's a picnic area," Falen says. Across off Highway 341 sits the recently updated Veterans Riverfront Memorial Park. The downtown green space reopened in 2024 with a dog park, skate park and splash pad. James A. Colson Park is within walking distance of some homes. Locals visit Mile Branch Park for playgrounds, picnic areas and walking trails. The site also has campgrounds and fire pits for overnight stays. Southern Hills Golf and Country Club offers a swimming pool and public golf course. Ocmulgee Wildlife Management Area is nearby for hunting, hiking and fishing.
Visiting the city center for most shopping and dining
Inside Hawkinsville proper are locally run shops and businesses. The area includes Hawkinsville Antique Mall and Lisa's Corner Market, for produce. "Everyone likes to go to the butcher shop M&T Meats. Harris Kuntry Meats & Grocery has fresh vegetables from local farmers," Falen says. Most dining options are casual spots near the city center, such as The Grill and The Steak House Restaurant. A few event venues are downtown, but the Hawkinsville Opera House is a long-standing favorite. Residents visit the opera house for live performances and movie showings. The building is on the National Register of Historic Places. There's also a Walmart Supercenter in nearby Perry and Cochran.
Attending schools on Red Devil Drive
Students attend Pulaski County Schools along Red Devil Drive. They start at Pulaski Elementary and move on to Pulaski County Middle and Hawkinsville High. According to Niche, each school ranks among the top standout schools in the state. Each school has a B grade on Niche.
Hawkinsville Harness Horse Festival and other events
Residents venture around the city to attend community gatherings throughout the year. Hawkinsville Harness Horse Festival celebrates the area's rich equestrian history. Spectators gather to watch Standardbred horses pull two-wheeled racing carts along a clay track. The event features multiple races and live music. The Chamber of Commerce sponsors community events like Main Street Fest and Trick or Treat on Commerce Street. The Annual Ocmulgee Riverfest is held at Mile Branch Park.
Getting in and out of Pulaski County
Taylor Regional Hospital provides emergency room services. Commuters travel along U.S. Highways 129 and 341 and State Route 26. Perry is about 20 miles away, while Macon is roughly 45 miles away.
Written By
Ashley Kennedy
