Map Of Augusta Ga And Surrounding Areas
Introduction
Located in eastern Georgia, Augusta is a charming city with a rich history and a vibrant culture. Known for its beautiful golf courses, the city has plenty to offer besides its famous greens. From outdoor adventures to cultural immersion, Augusta and its surrounding areas have something for everyone. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will explore the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, and much more to help you plan your perfect trip to Augusta and its surroundings.
Top Attractions
Augusta National Golf Club
Home of the famous Masters Tournament, Augusta National Golf Club is a must-visit for any golf enthusiast. The course is known for its stunning beauty and challenging layout, and visitors can also explore the club’s rich history and memorabilia.
The Riverwalk
The Riverwalk is a scenic promenade along the Savannah River that offers breathtaking views of the city and its surroundings. Visitors can stroll, jog, or bike along the path and enjoy the many shops, restaurants, and attractions along the way.
Hidden Gems
Phinizy Swamp Nature Park
Located just outside Augusta, Phinizy Swamp Nature Park is a hidden gem for nature lovers. The park boasts over 1,100 acres of wetlands, forests, and wildlife habitats, and offers a variety of hiking trails, birdwatching spots, and educational programs.
The Morris Museum of Art
The Morris Museum of Art is a small but impressive museum that showcases the best of southern art and culture. Visitors can admire works by renowned artists such as Georgia O’Keeffe and John Singer Sargent, as well as lesser-known local talents.
Food Scene
The Bee’s Knees
The Bee’s Knees is a popular tapas bar that offers a wide variety of small plates and cocktails. The restaurant’s cozy atmosphere and creative menu make it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Southbound Smokehouse
Southbound Smokehouse is a barbecue restaurant that serves up some of the best smoked meats in town. The restaurant also offers live music and a lively atmosphere, making it a great spot for a night out.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Free Museums
Many of Augusta’s museums offer free admission on certain days or at certain times. Be sure to check the museum’s website or call ahead to find out when you can visit for free.
Parks and Trails
Augusta is home to many beautiful parks and trails that offer free or low-cost activities such as hiking, biking, and picnicking. Some popular spots include the Augusta Canal Trail, the Reed Creek Wetlands Trail, and the Augusta Riverwalk.
Outdoor Adventures
Kayaking on the Savannah River
Augusta’s location on the Savannah River makes it a great spot for kayaking and other water sports. Visitors can rent kayaks and explore the river’s many islands and coves.
The Augusta Canal
The Augusta Canal is a historic waterway that offers a variety of outdoor activities, including kayaking, hiking, and biking. Visitors can also take a guided boat tour and learn about the canal’s fascinating history.
Historical Landmarks
The Boyhood Home of President Woodrow Wilson
The Boyhood Home of President Woodrow Wilson is a beautifully restored house that offers a glimpse into the life of one of America’s most influential presidents. Visitors can take a guided tour and learn about Wilson’s childhood and early years.
The Augusta Museum of History
The Augusta Museum of History is a great place to learn about the city’s rich history and culture. The museum’s exhibits cover everything from the region’s Native American heritage to its role in the Civil War and beyond.
Family-Friendly Activities
The Augusta GreenJackets
The Augusta GreenJackets are a minor league baseball team that offers affordable family fun. The team plays at SRP Park, a state-of-the-art stadium that offers great views of the river and skyline.
The Augusta Canal Discovery Center
The Augusta Canal Discovery Center is a hands-on museum that teaches kids about the canal’s fascinating history and ecology. The center offers interactive exhibits, guided tours, and educational programs for all ages.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
The Ezekiel Harris House
The Ezekiel Harris House is a beautifully restored historic home that offers a glimpse into 18th-century life in Augusta. Visitors can take a guided tour and learn about the house’s fascinating history and architecture.
The Lucy Craft Laney Museum of Black History
The Lucy Craft Laney Museum of Black History is a small but important museum that showcases the contributions of African Americans to Augusta and beyond. The museum’s exhibits cover everything from slavery to the civil rights movement and beyond.
Natural Wonders
The Augusta Canal
In addition to its historical significance, the Augusta Canal is also a beautiful natural wonder. Visitors can explore the canal’s many locks, dams, and waterfalls, as well as the wildlife and vegetation that call it home.
Clarks Hill Lake
Located just outside Augusta, Clarks Hill Lake is a popular spot for fishing, boating, and other water sports. The lake’s clear waters and scenic surroundings make it a great spot for a day trip or weekend getaway.
Vibrant Nightlife
Soul Bar
Soul Bar is a popular spot for live music and dancing. The bar’s eclectic lineup of local and national acts, as well as its lively atmosphere, make it a great spot for a night out.
Stillwater Taproom
Stillwater Taproom is a craft beer bar that offers a wide selection of local and regional brews. The bar’s cozy atmosphere and friendly staff make it a great spot to relax and unwind after a long day of sightseeing.
Local Markets
The Augusta Market
The Augusta Market is a weekly farmers’ market that offers fresh produce, handmade crafts, and other local goods. Visitors can also enjoy live music and other entertainment, making it a great spot for a weekend outing.
The Aiken County Farmers Market
Located just across the border in South Carolina, the Aiken County Farmers Market is a great spot to stock up on fresh produce and other local goods. The market is open year-round and also offers live music and other entertainment.
Beaches and Mountains
Tybee Island
Tybee Island is a beautiful beach town located just a few hours’ drive from Augusta. Visitors can enjoy miles of sandy beaches, as well as a variety of water sports and other outdoor activities.
The Appalachian Mountains
The Appalachian Mountains are a great spot for hiking, camping, and other outdoor adventures. Visitors can explore the many trails and scenic overlooks, as well as the quaint towns and villages that dot the region.
Cultural Immersion
The Sacred Heart Cultural Center
The Sacred Heart Cultural Center is a beautifully restored church that now serves as a cultural center. Visitors can admire the stunning architecture and artwork, as well as attend concerts, art exhibits, and other cultural events.
The Augusta Symphony
The Augusta Symphony is a world-class orchestra that performs throughout the year. Visitors can attend concerts at the historic Miller Theater, as well as other venues throughout the city.
Art and Music Scene
The Morris Museum of Art
In addition to its impressive collection of southern art, the Morris Museum of Art also hosts a variety of concerts, lectures, and other cultural events throughout the year.
The Miller Theater
The Miller Theater is a beautifully restored theater that hosts a variety of concerts, plays, and other performances throughout the year. Visitors can enjoy everything from classical music to rock and roll.
Walking Tours
The Augusta Canal Heritage Trail
The Augusta Canal Heritage Trail is a 7.5-mile trail that follows the historic canal’s path through the city. Visitors can explore the canal’s many locks, dams, and other landmarks, as well as the surrounding neighborhoods and parks.
The Historic Augusta Walking Tour
The Historic Augusta Walking Tour is a self-guided tour that takes visitors through some of the city’s most historic and architecturally significant neighborhoods. Visitors can admire the beautiful homes and gardens, as well as learn about the city’s rich history.
Architectural Marvels
The Old Government House
The Old Government House is a beautifully restored building that now serves as a museum. Visitors can admire the stunning architecture and learn about the building’s history and significance.
The Augusta Cotton Exchange Building