The Memorial Stadium
The Memorial Stadium
A dream in the hearts of many post-World War II Ware County citizens, Memorial Stadium became a reality in 1948, dedicated to the many Ware County women and men who gave their lives in defense of their county in two world wars. Until 2002, Memorial Stadium was the hub of Waycross’ community life, drawing its citizens to regular minor-league baseball games, where major-leaguers such as Hank Aaron and Stan Musial would disembark from their train trips to make cameo appearances on the field. The Ware County Gators and Bulldogs also earned cheers on the gridiron here.
In 2002, the well-loved and well-used stadium needed a serious makeover, and the City of Waycross traded it to the school system so that its funds could renovate the ailing structure. The school board seized the opportunity to modernize the stadium, thanks to the help of the county’s voters who approved a sale tax for education, and SP Design Group, who gave the city an attractive and functional sports and community event complex that honors its rich heritage. Exterior features of the building remind one of a familiar and favorite railroad depot, while inside features are clean, comfortable and air-conditioned, and include three sets of restrooms, locker rooms, a large community room, a concession stand, and a Gator Gear store. The stadium itself features a two-story press box, a high-tech scoreboard, and ample stadium seating. Visitor parking is behind the stadium on the grass field or additional parking is available at the tennis courts or Waycross Middle School (one block behind the stadium).
Today, this structure continues to bring the people of Waycross and Ware County together not just for sporting events, but for community events of all kinds.
The Regional Visitor Information Center located in Downtown Waycross, Georgia can help you find your adventure! Stop by and see us, pick up a map, brochures, flyers, books, information and so much more. Whether you are staying overnight or just traveling through, Waycross will be a place to remember.
The Okefenokee Heritage Center is a regional art and history museum located amongst twenty acres of beautiful pine woodlands. Over the past thirty years it has served the surrounding Okefenokee area by promoting an appreciation of the arts and an increased understanding of this region’s history. with its exhibits, programs and activities.
Southern Forest World is a museum dedicated to the history of forestry. There are many interesting artifacts. Southern Forest World has “Stuckie” the petrified dog (He’s also been on display at Ripley’s Believe It of Not).
If you are interested in Forestry this is the place for you! If you’d like to see a petrified dog then this is a MUST!
Laura S. Walker State Park is located just a few miles from the Okefenokee Swamp Park. Fishing and watersports are popular during the summer in the park’s 120-acre lake, while camping is popular year-round. Laura Walker also provides a beautiful layout of picnic areas and group shelters that are great for family outings.
The Lakes Golf Course at Laura S. Walker State Park features an eighteen-hole course, a full-service golf shop and campsites or hotel accommodations for extended stays. The course inherits the natural beauty that glorifies the park area, and is further enhanced by three beautiful lakes.
Obediah’s Okefenok is the 1800s pioneer homestead of Obediah Barber. Since 1989, this homestead has been restored and turned into a park, now listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Visitors can venture down the 1100-ft. boardwalk, walk the nature trails, or just stroll through the many buildings and museums.
As you explore our downtown, note the many examples of period architecture that give this area its character. Even though some buildings are getting a face lift, others remain towering testaments to Waycross’ close proximity to Florida and its Spanish Influence. This Spanish Mission style architecture is reflected in stucco finishes, stylized gables, and clay tile roofs.
The crown jewel of the Ware County Recreation Department, the 123-acre facility features three complexes within walking distance of each other, and surrounded by ample parking. Building on the Trembling Earth Sports Complex
began in the early 2000s and has been completed in stages as funds became available. Your team is sure to appreciate the 12 tournament quality fields for play: the youth baseball complex with its six fields; the adult softball
complex, with four fields; one full-sized football field; and one multi-purpose soccer field.
A dream in the hearts of many post-World War II Ware County citizens, Memorial Stadium became a reality in 1948, dedicated to the many Ware County women and men who gave their lives in defense of their county in two world wars. Until 2002, Memorial Stadium was the hub of Waycross’ community life, drawing its citizens to regular minor-league baseball games, where major-leaguers such as Hank Aaron and Stan Musial would disembark from their train trips to make cameo appearances on the field.
