I live in the Macon area. Unfortunately, Macon, which is a city of about 100,000 has a very high crime rate. As long as you stay in North Macon (Arkwright Rd., Tom Hill Sr. Blvd, and even the north end of Riverside Dr.) you should be fine. Your remaining drive time to the Orlando area will be about six hours. As for Tifton, it is approximately 100 miles south of Macon and is known for its hospitality. However, there are not a lot of nicer hotels/motels here, as there isn't much of a tourist base. In my opinion, you would be better off if thinking about Tifton, to travel the additional 50 or so miles to Valdosta. Valdosta is located right on the Florida line, and was recognized by ESPN as "Titletown USA" due to its High School and Collegiate sports. It is only about 3 hours from Orlando, and it is a nice town. Plus, there are plenty of nicer hotels/motels in the area as it is a military town and it also has a decent sized amusement park nearby. Plus, depending on what day you travel, you will get through all of the I75 road construction in Georgia, and it is smooth sailing on into Florida to the Turnpike and then on to the Kissimmee/WDW area!
Hope this Helps!!!