Georgia’s Gem: Explore Augusta, GA, Like a Local

Planning a trip or move to Augusta, Georgia? Known as the home of the Masters Golf Tournament, Augusta attracts golf enthusiasts from around the world, yet the city’s appeal extends far beyond the greens of Augusta National. Situated along the banks of the Savannah River, the area provides opportunities for water sports, fishing, and scenic river walks, making it a picture-perfect scene for nature lovers. The city’s downtown area is bustling with life, featuring a variety of shops, restaurants, and cultural venues, including the historic Imperial Theatre and the Morris Museum of Art, the first museum dedicated to the art and artists of the American South. With its history and its ongoing economic growth, Augusta is as appealing a place to settle down as it is to visit! Read on to learn more about the city.

Table of Contents

I. Attractions of Augusta

II. The Dining Scene

III. Community Events & Resources

Augusta, GA by c_live_lee lic Public Domain

The Ultimate Guide for Your Visit to Augusta, GA

Top 5 Must-See Attractions in the Garden City

1. The Augusta National Golf Club

Of course, the crown jewel of Augusta’s attractions is undoubtedly the Augusta National Golf Club, home to the prestigious Masters Tournament held every April. This exclusive golf club is renowned for its beautifully manicured course, iconic Amen Corner, and is steeped in the history of the sport. While the club itself is private, the tournament attracts golf fans worldwide, offering them a glimpse into one of the sport’s most revered venues.

2. The Riverwalk

Nestled along the Savannah River, the Augusta Riverwalk is the city’s serene escape into nature. This picturesque park features several levels of brick-lined paths, lush gardens, and spacious lawns that are perfect for picnicking, strolling, or simply enjoying the riverside views. The Riverwalk also hosts a variety of events and festivals throughout the year, making it a central hub of for the community to gather.

3. The Morris Museum of Art

Located on the Riverwalk, the Morris Museum of Art is the first museum dedicated to the art and artists of the American South. It houses an impressive collection of Southern art, including paintings, photographs, and sculptures, spanning from the late 18th century to the present. The museum also offers educational programs, special exhibitions, and events that explore the rich cultural heritage of the South.

4. James Brown Exhibit

Celebrating Augusta’s own “Godfather of Soul,” the James Brown Exhibit, located within the Augusta Museum of History, offers an in-depth look at the life and legacy of James Brown. Visitors can explore a vast array of memorabilia, including stage costumes, awards, and personal artifacts, providing insight into the music legend’s influence on the world of music and beyond.

5. Phinizy Swamp Nature Park

Another opportunity to get out into the great outdoors, Phinizy Swamp Nature Park connects residents to nature and wildlife, including birds, otters, and alligators. The park features boardwalks and trails that meander through wetlands and woodlands, making it ideal for bird watching, photography, or enjoying a peaceful hike. The park’s center also provides educational programs about the local ecosystem and conservation efforts.

James Brown Blvd in Augusta, GA by karendesuyo lic CC BY 2.0 DEED

Sip & Savor Augusta’s Best Dining Spots

Augusta, GA, offers an eclectic mix of dining experiences that can cater to any tastes and preferences. Here are some of the most popular restaurants in Augusta, known for their delicious food, unique atmospheres, and excellent service.

Upscale Dining

For those seeking a refined dining experience, Frog Hollow Tavern and Abel Brown Southern Kitchen & Oyster Bar stand out. Frog Hollow Tavern delights with its farm-to-table approach, emphasizing local and seasonal ingredients, complemented by an impressive wine list. Similarly, Abel Brown offers a modern twist on Southern cuisine, focusing on fresh oysters and seafood in a cozy, elegant setting. Both establishments are perfect for special occasions or when craving sophisticated flavors in a sophisticated atmosphere.

Casual Eateries with a Global Twist

In the mood to try unique culinary influences? Whiskey Bar Kitchen combines American and Japanese cuisine, known for its whiskey selection and creative burgers. With more than 200 whiskeys, it is well worth a stop for the enthusiast in your life. Craft & Vine is another casual spot, specializing in tapas-style dishes, craft cocktails, and wines in a chic setting on Broad Street.

Comfort Food and Traditional Favorites

For those who lean to comfort food and traditional dishes, Augusta has plenty of go-to destinations. Rae’s Coastal Café offers a Caribbean-inspired menu in a secluded, tropical setting, while Farmhaus Burger is renowned for its grass-fed beef burgers and handcrafted milkshakes. Nacho Mama’s provides a fun and relaxed atmosphere for enjoying Mexican-inspired fare. Luigi’s, a family-owned gem since 1949, is a staple in the community serving classic Italian and Greek dishes.

Whatever flavors you are craving, Augusta’s culinary scene has an eatery to leave you satisfied!

Postcard Augusta, GA by Boston Public Library lic CC BY 2.0 DEED

Become a Part of the Augusta Community

Know Your City’s Resources: Education Institutions & Medical Care

At the heart of Augusta’s appeal is its commitment to education, with a range of public and private schools that cater to fostering the academic and creative talents of its youth. The Richmond County School System serves K-12 students. The city is also home to several higher education institutions, including Augusta University, which is renowned for its medical program, and Paine College. 

Augusta provides various specialized medical care facilities to support you through every walk of life. With Fort Gordon nearby, military personnel and veterans as well as their families can take advantage of Dwight David Eisenhower Army Medical Center and Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center. Other area hospitals include:

• Augusta University Medical Center
• Doctors Hospital
• Piedmont Hospital

Add Community Events to Your Calendar

Dive into the community by experiencing the region’s biggest events for yourself! Whether you fly solo or you are looking to bring along the entire family for a day out, Augusta is never short on fun with annual community events all year long!

1. The Masters Tournament: While primarily a sporting event, The Masters has a significant community aspect, transforming Augusta each spring into a bustling hub of activity. The tournament not only showcases the world’s best golfers but also brings together the local community and visitors for a week of celebration, charity events, and social gatherings.
2. Arts in the Heart of Augusta Festival: This vibrant festival celebrates the diversity and cultural richness of Augusta through a weekend filled with art, performances, and international cuisine. Artists and performers from various backgrounds showcase their talents, and the Global Village offers a taste of culinary delights from around the world, making it a true celebration of multiculturalism.
3. Augusta Pride Festival: Celebrating the LGBTQ+ community, the Augusta Pride Festival includes a parade and a festival with live entertainment, vendors, and community resources. This event fosters inclusivity and unity, drawing participants and supporters from across the region to celebrate love, diversity, and pride.
4. Ironman 70.3 Augusta: Feeling strong? This annual triathlon attracts athletes from all over the world to compete in swimming, biking, and running across Augusta’s scenic landscape. Locals come out to support and cheer on the participants throughout the competition.
5. Augusta Christmas Light-Up Spectacular (& Other Holiday Happenings): Kicking off the holiday season, this event lights up downtown Augusta with thousands of twinkling lights. The evening includes the lighting of the city’s Christmas tree, live performances, and family friendly activities, bringing together the community to celebrate the joy and warmth of the holiday season. Keep an eye out all December long for opportunities to get out on the town with family and friends.

Let Storage Sense Take Care of Your Belongings While You Settle Into the Area

Now that you are ready to take on the city, leave the hard part of moving and storing to the professionals! With eight locations in the Augusta, GA, area, Storage Sense is your top choice for reliable and secure self storage. Our month-by-month leases allow you to keep your rental flexible—opt for space just long enough to handle your move, or rent a long-term storage unit to support ongoing organization. Check out the storage units we have available by finding the location closest to you!

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Katie Mest

About the Author: Katie Mest is a Content Marketing Specialist at Storage Asset Management in York, PA. She specializes in writing about the self storage industry, including storage tips and helpful resources. Outside of work, Katie enjoys spending time exploring the outdoors and snuggling in with a crochet project and her cat, Billie.