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While you hear “Augusta, Georgia,” what involves thoughts? Is it the large musical and activist legacy of “Godfather of Soul” James Brown? Is it one of many American South’s most vibrant and expansive artwork scenes? Is it a serene kayak journey alongside the Augusta Canal? I’m guessing you first considered a sure well-known golf event. Whereas this golf event is actually prestigious, there’s much more to see and do in Augusta past these hyperlinks.
Whether or not you’re right here for the Masters Match, you’re searching for different stuff to do whereas your journey companions attend the Masters, otherwise you’re coming to city every other time of the yr, there are many issues to do in Augusta, Georgia, and plenty of colourful treasures past the greens. We’ll additionally clue you in on the place you’ll be able to really play golf in Augusta!
Let’s get to know Augusta
Situated about 150 miles east of Atlanta, Augusta appears and feels extra classically “Southern” than Atlanta. As Georgia’s second-oldest metropolis, Augusta has traditionally performed a serious function in Georgia’s progress and improvement. It started as a navy fort, then turned Georgia’s second state capital, then turned the Black Belt’s major market city, and eventually turned a textile industrial powerhouse. All through city, and particularly in Augusta’s historic downtown, you’ll be able to nonetheless encounter remnants from these phases of Augusta’s historical past.
After all, no dialogue of Augusta’s historical past is full with out mentioning the one and solely “Godfather of Soul,” James Brown. You’ll discover shrines all through city honoring the legacy of this rock n’ roll legend. Later on this information, we’ll let you realize the place you’ll be able to “get on up,” “say it loud,” and “really feel good” with the last word James Brown expertise.
Extra lately, Augusta has emerged as a hub for inventive creativity, artisan craftsmanship, and technological achievement. From the Augusta Market close to the Riverwalk that occurs each Saturday to the rising eating scene at Surrey Center on the west facet of city, you’ll be able to sense the air of change throughout city. When you’ve ever wished to see the subsequent sizzling American metropolis whereas it’s nonetheless within the up-and-coming part, now’s a good time to both introduce your self to Augusta or reacquaint your self with this dynamic metropolis because it balances historic traditions with new power.
What are some issues to do in Augusta?
At first look, Augusta would possibly look like a kind of stereotypically sleepy Southern cities the place everybody and every part strikes at a snail’s tempo. Although Augusta’s general vibes are far more relaxed than different main Southern cities like Atlanta and Charlotte, that completely doesn’t imply you’re doomed to indefinite boredom right here. Truly, you could have loads of issues to do in Augusta, Georgia! Take a look at these go-to choices to get out and expertise the illustrious treasures of Georgia’s Second Metropolis.
Two Dudes and a Boat
Two Dudes and a Boat makes it extremely simple so that you can get on the Savannah River and see Augusta from a complete special approach. Greg and Steven launched this enterprise in the course of the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, they usually’ve since grown it into considered one of Augusta’s high native actions. The place else are you able to row a kayak on the Georgia–South Carolina state line and trip your well beyond scenic wetlands, the town skyline, a baseball stadium, and picturesque neighborhoods filled with palmetto bushes?
I’ve a confession to make: The primary time I ever bought in a kayak was right here in Augusta with Two Dudes and a Boat. Due to their intensive aquatic data, in addition to their extremely heat and private service, I bought within the boat and commenced navigating my manner via the Savannah River in nearly no time. I liked being out within the water, seeing the beautiful riverside landscapes, and getting a unique view of the town versus staying on dry land the entire time. Whether or not you’re a nervous novice or an skilled navigator, Greg and Steven will be sure you have a enjoyable and protected time rowing your manner alongside the Savannah River.
Phinizy Heart and Nature Park
In lots of components of the U.S., individuals are likely to recoil upon listening to the phrase “swamp.” At Phinizy Heart, although, the swamp signifies Mom Nature’s final masterpiece. All of it begins to make sense when you hit considered one of their trails and witness this ecosystem’s outstanding biodiversity. Whereas right here, you’ll be able to spot egrets, herons, woodpeckers, river otters, beavers, and much more animal species within the wild. As well as, the Spanish moss-adorned bushes alongside the streams and marshes make for nature photographers’ final dream come true.
In order for you an much more in-depth expertise, make a reservation upfront to go to Phinizy’s on-site Center for Water Sciences. No matter whether or not you and your crew are hydrology nerds, Phinizy’s group of researchers will blow you away with its groundbreaking work to observe and enhance the area’s water high quality.
Forks Space Path System
Situated inside Sumter Nationwide Forest on the South Carolina facet of the Savannah River, the Forks Space Path System is ideal for hikers and mountain bikers in any respect ranges. This path community supplies as much as 34 miles of pathways via lush forests for out of doors adventurers to get pleasure from. Riders and hikers will discover gorgeous panoramic views at greater elevations, and the abundance of verdant vegetation supplies a welcoming and scenic house for a lot of birds and animals.
Although the Forks Area Trail System is a couple of 14-mile drive from downtown Augusta, it isn’t too arduous to seek out. When you’re there, you’ll notice how rewarding this journey really is.
Savannah River Brewing Firm
If you like craft beer, you’ll seemingly love Savannah River Brewing Firm! They’ve a broad and enjoyable number of regionally crafted beers, together with my favourite “no jacket required” Czech-style pilsner that has a properly balanced soft-yet-dry taste. Additionally they have my different favourite “Dynamite Brown Ale” that pays homage to Augusta’s personal Godfather of Soul with its scrumptious (but not too candy) notes of caramel and chocolate.
The faucet room is usually open day by day throughout afternoons and evenings, and it provides a splendidly relaxed and intimate different to the hustle and bustle of the craft beer scenes within the large metropolis brewery hubs.
Augusta Museum of Historical past
No matter brings you to Augusta, the Museum of Historical past in all probability has a whole lot of what you’re searching for. When you’re on the town in the course of the weekend, you’ll be able to simply lose your self within the museum’s assorted reveals. The Augusta Museum of Historical past has the world’s largest and most complete exhibit dedicated to rock ‘n roll pioneer James Brown, from intimate glimpses into Brown’s youth to memorabilia from a few of Brown’s ultimate live shows and competition appearances. This museum additionally has halls devoted to sharing the story of Augusta’s extremely particular relationship with golf.
Even if you happen to’re probably not a “museum particular person,” you continue to would possibly need to pop over right here. Whether or not you’re moved by traditional automobiles and trains otherwise you desire to maneuver to the beat of traditional rock ‘n roll, this museum will actually transfer you.
Morris Museum of Artwork
Whereas it’s simple to imagine the worst about an artwork museum outdoors a serious metropolitan area, this Smithsonian-affiliated museum really packs an enormous inventive punch with its choices. Because the oldest museum devoted to artwork from the American South, Morris’s everlasting assortment consists of over 5,000 artistic endeavors spanning from the 18th to the twenty first centuries. Plus, it usually homes not less than 15 seasonal reveals yearly. Throughout my go to, I stumbled upon some outstanding works from Jonathan Inexperienced, Dale Pennington, Julyan Davis, and Ida Kohlmeyer. Whether or not you favor realistic-looking panorama work or postmodern summary sculpture, you’re positive to seek out one thing right here that catches your eye.
Sacred Coronary heart Cultural Heart
Although Sacred Coronary heart is now not a consecrated and dealing Catholic Church, it’s nonetheless held sacred by many within the Augusta group. It was a crucial group useful resource for Irish Catholic immigrants who got here to Augusta within the mid-Nineteenth century and who turned to this church as a uncommon refuge in closely Protestant Georgia. It additionally turned a stunning group useful resource for Ashkenazi Jewish immigrants who got here right here from Poland and Russia and located on this church a minister who really spoke their language.
Whereas the crimson brick exterior suits properly into the general anesthetics of downtown Augusta, the Byzantine- and Romanesque-influenced inside of the church evokes the stately grandeur of the nice medieval cathedrals of Europe and the Center East. When the Diocese of Savannah determined to deconsecrate Sacred Coronary heart to save cash and consolidate parishioners into one inner-city Augusta church, the area people stepped as much as save this church and rechristen it as a group cultural middle in 1987. Now it’s open for public excursions Monday via Friday and group artwork galleries year-round, making it a favourite spot for group teams in search of an extra-special area for particular occasions.
The place to remain
On the subject of tourism, Augusta’s a little bit extra off the crushed path, so that you received’t discover the identical number of inns you’re accustomed to seeing in bigger cities like Atlanta and Nashville. So what are you able to count on with Augusta, Georgia, inns? There’s actually no scarcity of inns right here, and also you’ll discover some selection in resort manufacturers. You could find further lodging choices via trip rental websites like Airbnb and Vrbo. Under is the place I stayed throughout my most up-to-date journey to Augusta.
Partridge Inn
What started as a modest personal residence in 1890 remodeled into a serious resort 20 years later. In 1978, the Partridge Inn was eyed for demolition and redevelopment, however locals managed to save lots of this historic resort. It reopened as a resort 9 years later, underwent main renovations in 2014, and was added to Hilton’s Curio Assortment the next yr.
Now, the Partridge Inn sports activities 143 distinct but fantastically up to date visitor rooms and suites that supply plush bedding, high-speed Wi-Fi web, 52-inch flat-panel HD TVs, and refreshed loos. As well as, some rooms and suites supply balconies with unimaginable views. The Partridge Inn has two eating places on-site, and it’s situated proper in between downtown and the world-famous Augusta Nationwide Golf Membership.
- Nearest airport: Augusta Regional
- Time: 15–20 minutes by automotive
- Distance: Eight miles
Hyatt Home Augusta Downtown
When you desire a extra central location and extra modern model, you’ll recognize the Hyatt House downtown. The vibes are very cool and stylish, and the rooms function a considerably loft-like design with open flooring plans, spacious loos with rain showers, touchscreen temperature controls, and quick and dependable Wi-Fi web. When you want meals and/or drinks, Hyatt Home has a bar and meals market on-site, plus it’s strolling distance from fairly a number of downtown eating places.
- Nearest airport: Augusta Regional
- Time: 15–20 minutes by automotive
- Distance: 9 miles
The place to eat
How can I greatest describe Augusta, Georgia, eating places? After all, Augusta provides a complete lot of tasty Southern cuisine. With that stated, you received’t must eat the identical stuff on a regular basis. Whether or not you favor a plate filled with old-school soul meals or trendier spots that includes modern and worldwide fare, you’ll find the grub you’re searching for in Augusta.
Value key
- “$” = budget-friendly or low-cost
- “$$”= common
- “$$$”= costly
The Brunch Home of Augusta
When you merely want some honest-to-goodness down-home good cooking, come to the Brunch Home downtown for breakfast or, properly, brunch. This Black-owned and regionally run restaurant serves up all of the Southern favorites, together with salmon croquettes, rooster and waffles, and shrimp and grits. We had been particularly impressed with the croquettes, although there are actually no fallacious decisions right here. The Brunch Home is open each morning, so you could have each motive to present this spot a attempt.
- Greatest for: Breakfast and lunch
- Value: $$
Bodega Ultima
Whereas Bodega Ultima appears and feels a bit like a kind of quaint-yet-bougie cafes that may match proper in in one of many beachside neighborhoods in San Diego or Los Angeles, this Surrey Heart café may be very a lot an Augusta unique. You’ll be able to order a breakfast sandwich with avocado, tomato, recent mozzarella, and omelet-style egg that tastes fairly West Coast, however the tacky grits remind you that you simply’re within the South. The La Colombe espresso provides a pleasant Northeastern contact too.
- Greatest for: Breakfast and lunch
- Value: $$
The Boll Weevil Cafe and Sweetery
Suppose Cheesecake Manufacturing unit, however significantly better — and also you’ll get the Boll Weevil. Just like the nationwide chain, this down-home downtown eatery provides loads of generously portioned, savory dishes and house-made desserts. Not like the nationwide chain, the Boll Weevil may be very Augusta via and thru. Come for the candy tea, keep for the fried inexperienced tomatoes and the grilled pimento cheese sandwich, and make room for the last word dessert. I significantly love the white chocolate raspberry cheesecake, however don’t be shocked when you’ve got a tough time choosing one!
- Greatest for: Lunch and dinner
- Value: $$
Laziza Mediterranean Grill
If you realize anybody who lately took a visit to the Center East and out of the blue began to really feel Levantine meals withdrawal — like how this writer felt after coming home from Israel and Palestine — deliver them right here. Whereas there’s no actual substitute for genuine Center Jap meals that’s made and eaten there, not less than Augusta has this culinary gem to get pleasure from. The lemony fried cauliflower with tahini is downright addictive, and the falafel with hummus can be extremely scrumptious. If that is an adults-only lunch, you may as well indulge of their choice of craft beers.
- Greatest for: Lunch and dinner
- Value: $$
The SolFood Kitchen
Whether or not you’re vegan, low-carb, on a particular weight loss program, or just making an attempt to eat in a extra health-conscious method, The SolFood Kitchen at Surrey Heart in all probability has what you’re searching for. I actually loved the barbeque jackfruit sandwich, and the cobbler-style blueberry compote is surprisingly good.
- Greatest for: Lunch and dinner
- Value: $$
Soca Vegan Kitchen
Owned and operated by a mother-and-daughter Trinidadian-American duo, Soca Vegan Kitchen takes Caribbean delicacies to the subsequent stage with a sturdy menu that’s full of wonderful flavors. The aloo pies — fried hand pies stuffed with mashed potatoes — go nice with their spicy tomato and eggplant chokas, and the paratha flatbread makes an ideal pair with their spicy spinach. When you’re right here for brunch, add the pancakes and/or the banana fritters to your order for the peerlessly candy end. Whereas it’s a little bit of a drive from downtown, belief me: The drive will completely really feel value it when you’re right here.
- Greatest for: Lunch and dinner
- Value: $$
8595 Restaurant & Bar at The Partridge Inn
Situated within the historic Partridge Inn, 8595 provides some tasty new twists on traditional Southern delicacies. I additionally love their model of fried inexperienced tomatoes, which include a hearty three-cheese pimento cheese dressing and a tangy balsamic glaze to supply a pleasant steadiness. In order for you one thing on the lighter facet, attempt the Scottish salmon or the Prince Edward Island mussels for an important seafood dinner. If you wish to go all in on going all out, you’ll be able to’t go fallacious with the Loaded Creole Pasta or the catfish and grits.
- Greatest for: Dinner
- Value: $$$
Abel Brown Southern Kitchen and Oyster Bar
Everytime you need or want a extra formal dinner spot in Augusta, you need to do Abel Brown at Surrey Heart for dinner. Whereas the chef and proprietor studied on the Culinary Institute of America and skilled at a number of prestigious big-city eating places, his hometown restaurant feels proper at house right here. When you like oysters, you’ll love Abel Brown’s rendition of Oysters Rockefeller. While you’re right here, be certain to hearken to the waitstaff’s studying of the day by day specials. I ordered the brussels sprouts and the grilled wahoo that had been provided as off-the-menu specials, and I used to be really blown away.
- Greatest for: Dinner
- Value: $$$
Ideas for planning a greater journey
Climate
What’s the take care of Augusta, Georgia, climate? Although Augusta has a gentle local weather with regards to temperature, Augusta averages round 44 inches of precipitation per yr, and rain falls fairly persistently year-round. Although the overwhelming majority of Augusta’s precipitation falls as rain, the occasional freezing rain would possibly occur in the course of the winter season, and light-weight snowfall would possibly happen in December and January.
When you’re coming in the course of the summer time season, prepare for a heavy dose of humid warmth. Although you’ll nonetheless have loads to get pleasure from round city, it helps to be versatile together with your itinerary. If a storm is coming your manner, it’s in all probability not a good suggestion to plan a whole lot of out of doors actions for the day. In any other case, plan on doing all of your most difficult out of doors excursions early within the morning or near sundown to beat that scorching summer time warmth.
It’s at all times a good suggestion to organize for inclement climate. While you’re packing, be certain to slide in not less than a light-weight jacket, an umbrella, and maybe a raincoat when you’ve got one readily available. Through the colder winter season (November via February), you in all probability additionally need to pack some pants and hotter jackets to maintain heat.
Learn how to get round
Whereas Augusta has been with out passenger rail service for almost 4 a long time, it does have a local bus service to assist individuals get round. For longer-distance journey, Augusta has a regional airport, the place Delta provides flights to and from Atlanta and the place American provides flights to and from Charlotte, Dallas-Fort Value, and Washington-Nationwide.
When you’re driving to Augusta, you’ll in all probability be utilizing the I-20 freeway from Atlanta or Columbia (South Carolina). I-20 runs northwest of downtown whereas I-520 capabilities as a beltway that goes across the south and east sides of Augusta. Whereas the streets can zig-zag round as soon as you progress out of downtown, if you happen to take the Freeway 28 exit from I-20 or I-520, or if you happen to take the Freeway 1 or Freeway 78 exit from I-520, you’ll find your manner downtown.
Notes on golf in Augusta
Although golf is the one sport that’s most regularly related to Augusta, the group really has a fancy and complex relationship with Augusta Nationwide Golf Membership. Whereas the annual Masters Match brings in lots of thousands and thousands of {dollars} and hundreds of vacationers to the area yearly, the nation membership that hosts the Masters does its greatest to stay so personal that non-members have just about zero likelihood of ever taking part in the greens. Except you’re a billionaire company government, an A-list celeb, or a distinguished nationwide politician, you in all probability won’t ever get to expertise any tee time at Augusta Nationwide Golf Membership.
So the place are you able to go if you happen to actually need to play golf in Augusta? Happily, you do have choices. Sarcastically, the closest publicly accessible golf course to downtown Augusta and Augusta Nationwide is definitely The River Golf Club in North Augusta, South Carolina. As well as, the Augusta Municipal Golf Course nearly at all times has tee instances out there, and also you may need luck entering into Forest Hills Golf Club or West Lake Country Club if you happen to and your group are visiting throughout Masters Week.
Notes on “Southern Hospitality” and tradition
For these of us touring from different components of the nation, it’d really feel awkward at first to have so many individuals smile, greet us, and provoke nice dialog. In Augusta, that’s merely a part of any day that ends in -y. Sure, actually, individuals usually are usually this good and well mannered out right here.
With that stated, let’s sort out one thing that doesn’t really feel so good: Closed storefronts. Although Augusta’s personal metropolis tradition has grown extra progressive lately, there are nonetheless remnants of “Bible Belt” tradition throughout, akin to many companies staying closed on Sundays — and Mondays. When you’re planning to remain right here on Sunday and Monday, examine forward on companies’ web sites, Google Maps listings, and Yelp listings to see in the event that they’re open. If all else fails, name the telephone quantity listed to ensure that wherever you need to go to might be open.
Last ideas
Augusta could seem out of the best way and away from the motion till you really come right here and expertise the native motion for your self. When you leap within the river, hit the paths, pattern the specialty dishes and drinks, and uncover locals’ most cherished landmarks, you’ll actually see how particular this city is. Augusta’s downtown appears and seems like an actual, working city middle. The Savannah River really is the aquatic lifeblood of the area. The swamp abounds in pure magnificence, and the forest is filled with nature’s best adrenaline rush.
We’re glad that you simply’re right here to debate journey with us, and we hope we’re supplying you with good concepts on your subsequent journey. When you’d like extra inspiration on your journey plans, go forward and peruse our insiders’ guides to the surprisingly enjoyable Dutch Caribbean island of Bonaire, the best U.S. cities for foodies, our information to Canada’s “hidden gem” wine countries, our ideas for surviving these turbulent times for air travel, and every part you might want to know concerning the trendy Thai destination Chiang Mai. Wherever you go subsequent, have enjoyable and benefit from the journey.
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