Dining and Nightlife
Discover Augusta
Augusta, Georgia, offers a wonderful blend of history, culture, recreation, and Southern hospitality. Whether you enjoy the arts, exploring local culture, discovering great food, or spending a relaxing day on the water, Augusta has something for everyone. As the second-oldest and second-largest city in Georgia, Augusta offers the charm of a historic community along with the amenities and opportunities of a vibrant city.
Founded in 1736, Augusta sits along the banks of the Savannah River, where the foothills of the mountains meet the coastal plains. This beautiful setting provides an ideal backdrop for both work and recreation, with opportunities to enjoy the river, outdoors, and all that the city has to offer. Augusta’s location also makes it easy to explore beyond the city, with the beaches, mountains, and several major metropolitan areas just a short drive away. Atlanta, Charleston, Savannah, and Charlotte are all within approximately two and a half hours. With its rich history, natural beauty, and convenient location, Augusta is a wonderful place to live, work, and call home.
Arts, Culture, Music & Dining
Augusta’s cultural scene offers an exciting mix of art, music, festivals, and outstanding food. The showcases the art and artists of the American South, while downtown Augusta features galleries, public art, murals, and the creative energy of Artists’ Row and the Westobou arts community.
Augusta is also the hometown of legendary musician James Brown, the “Godfather of Soul,” and his influence can still be felt throughout the city’s vibrant music scene. From live bands and local performers to concerts and the performing arts, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy music in a variety of settings.
Throughout the year, Augusta comes alive with festivals and community events. and the annual Arts in the Heart of Augusta Festival are just two examples. Arts in the Heart brings together artists, musicians, performers, international cuisine, and cultures from around the world for a celebration of creativity and community.
And then there is the food! Augusta’s dining scene offers everything from Southern
favorites and fresh seafood to international cuisine and creative modern fare. Local
favorites include Frog Hollow Tavern, Abel Brown Southern Kitchen and Oyster Bar,
Boll Weevil Cafe and Sweetery, Manuel's Bread Cafe, Sole, and Fifth & Finch. Whether you are looking for a casual meal, a special night out, or something completely
new to try, Augusta offers plenty of ways to satisfy your appetite.
With so much to experience, you may find yourself needing to plan your free time as carefully as you plan your workweek!
Sports & the Outdoors
Augusta is a wonderful place for sports enthusiasts and outdoor lovers alike. The Augusta Canal, Augusta Riverwalk, North Augusta Greeneway, and Savannah River offer countless opportunities to walk, run, bike, paddle, fish, and enjoy the outdoors. Just outside the city, Clarks Hill Lake—also known as Lake Thurmond—provides more than 1,000 miles of shoreline and endless opportunities for boating, fishing, water sports, and time with family and friends.
Augusta’s passion for sports extends well beyond the water. Each fall, the Head of the South Regatta brings collegiate rowing teams from across the country to the Savannah River, creating a lively community event for athletes and spectators alike. The city also hosts a variety of running, cycling, triathlon, and other sporting events throughout the year.
Baseball fans can cheer on the Augusta GreenJackets, Augusta’s Minor League Baseball team, at SRP Park across the river in North Augusta. In 2027, professional hockey returns to Augusta with the Augusta Lynx, who will begin play in the ECHL during the 2027–28 season at the new Augusta Arena in downtown Augusta. Whether you prefer a day on the water, a scenic trail, a competitive sporting event, or simply cheering on the home team, Augusta offers plenty of ways to stay active and enjoy the outdoors.
Golf
For one week each April, Augusta arguably becomes the center of the golf world as visitors from around the globe arrive in the Garden City for the Masters. Since 1934, Augusta National Golf Club has hosted the world’s top golfers as they compete for one of the sport’s most coveted prizes—the iconic green jacket.
Golf in Augusta extends far beyond Masters Week. The area is home to a wide variety of public and private courses, offering something for everyone from weekend golfers to serious players. Many of these courses are steeped in history and have connections to some of the game’s legendary players, including Bobby Jones. With courses that are diverse, accessible, and available at a range of price points, it is easy to find a place to enjoy a round.
And you certainly don't have to be a PGA professional—or an NCAA champion—to enjoy golf in Augusta. Whether you're chasing a championship or simply trying to keep your ball out of the water, golfers of all skill levels are welcome in the Garden City!