Delightfully Southern and creative in character, the city of Augusta, Georgia, lies near the border of South Carolina, just across the Savannah River.
Many know of Augusta because it is home to the Master’s Golf Tournament, a highly popular and prestigious golfing competition that brings out visitors and locals alike.
However, Augusta is home to more than golf. Packed with unique restaurants, beautiful parks and a thriving nightlife, this city offers something for every interest.
Downtown Augusta offers original cuisine at restaurants such as The Bee’s Knees, which has an international menu ranging from chicken and waffles to buffalo tempeh. Other spots, such as Rhinehart's and Beamie’s, serve delicious down-home Southern seafood, are also located in the heart of downtown Augusta.
For music lovers, plenty of performances are held at The Country Club Dance Hall & Saloon and Jessye Norman School of the Arts. Artists with styles ranging from jazz to country to rock frequent this popular city. Visiting acts often include Cody Webb, Widespread Panic, Rascal Flatts, Sara Evans and Babyface with Tank.
There is also a music series at the Augusta Market called Saturday Morning Swing. Featuring jazz musicians and performing arts groups every week, this series allows the public to enjoy music while shopping at the market for locally grown produce and handmade goods.
For those who enjoy the outdoors, Augusta provides family-friendly parks and trails to take advantage of. A local favorite is the Augusta Riverwalk near the downtown area. The riverwalk features a paved path alongside the Savannah River with swings, play areas, beautiful landscaping and scenery that offers the ideal spot to unwind and relax in nature.
Phinizy Swamp Nature Park is another option for getting outside, with paths to view ponds around the park and the birds, fish and other creatures that frequent them. Stop by in the early morning for the sunrise, or later in the afternoon around dusk to catch a beautiful sunset reflected on the waters, a chorus of birds singing and maybe even an alligator among the reeds.
When it comes to nightlife, Augusta has options for those who enjoy sitting and sipping a nice drink or going out to dance. Blue Sky Kitchen and Bar in downtown Augusta is a quirky, fun place to sit with friends, enjoy a drink and perhaps hear some live music. The Loft, also downtown, is a bit more lively and includes pool tables, live music on weekends and karaoke weekdays.
No matter what the occasion, a trip to Augusta allows visitors the opportunity to explore a thriving city and enjoy the many attractions it has to offer.