Macon offers relaxed, rural living near Long Branch State Park
Known as “The City of Maples,” Macon offers a relaxed lifestyle near Long Branch State Park, at the intersection of major highways. “We offer things you wouldn’t often find in a town of our size,” says broker Toni Riekeberg, the co-owner of Stephens Real Estate. “Sports programs, a YMCA, a chamber of commerce and a downtown development association that works together.” The seat of its namesake county, Macon’s history dates back to the mid-19th century, when coal became its first vital industry. Today, manufacturing and agribusiness are key economic drivers, with Conagra Brands a leading player. Pastimes in Macon include catching a show at the historic theater, hunting in the woods and boating on the lake.
Homes near the lake and on acres in the countryside
Macon features a combination of lake views, countryside living and a city center, accommodating different lifestyles. The lots vary widely, from less than 5,000 square feet to generous acreage. Prices start from $50,000 to $80,000 for small cottages and ranch styles. They rise from $100,000 to $280,000 as conditions and square footage increase. Newer, custom homes and those near Macon Lake range from $350,000 to $480,000. Riekeberg says prices for lakeside properties can exceed $1 million.
Public schools and a career center on one campus in town
Macon County R-1 School District covers public education. Students may begin at Macon Elementary School, which earns a B on Niche, before filtering into the B-plus-rated Macon Middle School and the B-rated Macon Senior High School. High schoolers have opportunities for career-focused learning at the Macon Career Center, specializing in fields such as culinary arts, graphic design and criminal justice. Riekeberg, a longtime school board member, notes that all these schools — including the career center — are on the same campus. Additionally, Macon is home to Immaculate Conception School, a private Catholic institution serving kindergarten through eighth grade. Tri County Christian School is another private option for prekindergarten through eighth grade.
Community parks and lakes for daytime fun on the water
Parks with playgrounds are easy to find in Macon. At Jackson Street Park, children enjoy the merry-go-round and swings, and the basketball courts invite friendly competition. Residents play racquetball at Rustic Park, and the Don Schelle Ballfield Complex offers a place for baseball and softball practice. Skateboard Park is open from morning to dusk. Macon Country Club is a private course spanning nearly 3,000 yards, encompassed by hills, valleys and trees. Macon Lake is on the northeastern side of town with a park extending along its shore, providing a spot to fish, boat and picnic. Long Branch State Park is just beyond Macon and borders another recreational waterway. The park has three boat ramps and a beach designated for swimming. Other amenities include a marina, fishing dock and a network of hiking trails.
A walkable downtown with community staples, eclectic shops across town
Downtown has bars, antique shops, restaurants and community anchors, like the local library. The pedestrian-friendly area has a slower vibe, matching the town’s rural nature. Comfort food choices include the Apple Basket Cafe, a local favorite, while West Winery has wine tastings inside a restored 1880s building. El Anima Mexican Restaurant serves classic dishes from south of the border. There are other options along Highway 63, including fast-food choices and go-tos like Pear Tree Kitchen & Bar. Macon’s shopping scene is diverse for a small community. Residents can get supplies at familiar retailers like Walmart, Tractor Supply Co. and CVS, and browse a local gun and archery shop for outdoor gear. DG Market and Prenger Foods are local grocery stores.
Downtown events, from Fork & Cork Artisan Festival to mainstage shows
Downtown comes alive in August during the Macon Fork & Cork Artisan Festival, which is put on by the chamber of commerce and downtown development authority. Arts, crafts, food and antique vendors set up shop and sell their wares as live music plays. Maples Repertory Theatre is located downtown and draws actors, directors, designers and technicians from around the country for mainstage shows from June through December. “Families in the community house all of them,” Riekeberg says. “They come from New York and all over.”
Shared ride services and major highways support daily travel
Highways 63 and 36 intersect in Macon and lead to big cities like Kansas City and St. Louis in less than a three-hour drive. OATS Transit, a shared-ride service, provides regional transportation, including to medical appointments at Samaritan Hospital. The transit service also offers connections to Amtrak, airports and city buses. An active railroad operated by Union Pacific passes through town.
Written By
Kathryn Ashworth
