Enjoy Augusta’s rich and vibrant culture
Concert goers shown in the lights from the stage. Photo by Yvette de Wit
Augusta, Ga., is a fascinating blend of Southern charm, historical significance, and cultural diversity. It's not just about the renowned Augusta National Golf Club, there's so much more to this city that's worth exploring.
From its vibrant arts scene to a rich African-American heritage, Augusta's culture is as diverse as it is vibrant. Let's embark on a journey to uncover the unique cultural aspects that make Augusta more than just a pit stop in the Peach State.
Here’s just a sample of things to do in Augusta during every season.
Venues to Visit in Augusta in Fall
When Autumn paints the town in its vibrant hues, I explore Augusta’s treasure trove of Southern history, rich African-American heritage, and vibrant arts. Three notable venues make my list for the must-experience Augusta culture in the fall.
Morris Museum of Art: Houses a fantastic Southern art collection showcasing paintings, sculptures, and photographs depicting the history and culture of the South. You'll notice a special focus on works by African-American artists, illuminating an essential facet of Augusta’s diverse culture.
Augusta Riverwalk: Offers a scenic stroll along the Savannah River, flanked by the colorful fall foliage. You will find the Saturday Market during fall months and entertainments aspects such as live music and food vendors, emphasizing Augusta's rich cultural milieu.
Lucy Craft Laney Museum of Black History: One of my favorite spots to visit in Augusta is this home-turned-museum. In addition to showcasing the many contributions of the renowned Black educator, Lucy Laney, it hosts art exhibitions, education programs, and summer camps. Fall-based community events held at the museum make for a meaningful exploration of Augusta’s heritage.
Arts in the Heart of Augusta Festival: This amazing event features 150 participating artists across the spectrum of genres – including painting, woodwork, pottery, textile arts, and more. The performing arts are showcased across five stages of non-stop entertainment, including pop, jazz, blues, soul, and acoustic music, dancing, poetry reading, storytelling, and improv. International food booths provide food for every palate. About 10,000 people attend every year, so come on out and have a ball.
Your fall travel in Augusta presents a chance to find an immersive experience of Southern art, splendid riversides, and esteemed local history.
Venues to Visit in Augusta in Winter
In winter, Augusta’s temperate weather makes being outside a joy – so much so that during the early 20th century, the elite from New York and other northern states would winter here. They often stayed at the once-famous, grand Bon Air Hotel. Now a nursing home, you can see how grand it was. It’s perched at the bottom of The Hill – as the Summerville neighborhood is often referred to by locals – and has an amazing view of downtown Augusta.
Take advantage of the lovely daytime temperatures to stroll along the Riverwalk in Augusta, visit the Canal, walk along North Augusta’s Greeneway Trail, or visit Phinizy Swamp Nature Park a 1,100-acre wildlife park that holds a variety of native fauna and flora.
On colder days, there are indoor attractions – from the historical to the cultural.
Boyhood Home of President Woodrow Wilson: Step into the early life of the 28th U.S. President at the Boyhood Home of President Woodrow Wilson. Tours in this late-Victorian manse occur on the hour, delighting visitors with pre-presidential life anecdotes and noteworthy artifacts. Dressed up with festive Christmas decorations, visiting this venue around winter holidays makes this historic house tour even more enchanting.
The Augusta Symphony: Relish a night of mesmerizing sonatas with The Augusta Symphony – a cultural staple since its first performance in 1954. Listen to orchestral maestros as they fill the grand Miller Theater with harmonious symphonies and classics. Winter concerts often feature a fine blend of holiday favorites and timeless classics.
Augusta Museum of History: Get entangled in Augusta's rich past at the Augusta Museum of History. Housing thousands of artifacts recounting the city's history from pre-colonization to modern times, a visit to this museum immerse you in Augusta's evolving cultural narrative. Exclusive winter exhibits frequently delve into regional winter traditions and holiday customs.
Craft Breweries: Lastly, warm up amidst the cold weather with Augusta's rising brew culture. The Savannah River Brewing Company has locally crafted beers served in an artistic setting. Many craft breweries host specific winter releases, offering an excellent chance to delve into Augusta's burgeoning craft beer scene.
Venues to Visit in Augusta in Spring
Springtime in Augusta is unspeakably gorgeous. Azaleas bloom against a backdrop of dogwoods and pines – think of the iconic Amen Corner at the Augusta National. It’s the perfect time to visit gardens and see historical markers around town.
But let’s not neglect the cultural aspects of Augusta. The historical and famed The Imperial Theatre sits in the heart of Augusta. Here you can see showings of Gone With the Wind and other classic movies, productions of Shakespeare plays, Broadway shows, and concerts. Renowned as Augusta's grand dame, the venue dates to 1917, providing a touch of vintage charm amidst modern performances.
Secondly, Augusta Canal National Heritage Area comes alive in spring. Not only does the park provide cultural, recreational, and educational opportunities, but the Augusta Canal Discovery Center details the area's history through interactive exhibits. Take advantage of the Center’s boat tours and nature walks to grasp the full scope of Augusta's cotton industry history during the warmer spring months.
Lastly, the Sacred Heart Cultural Center fits as a must-visit. Formerly a catholic church, this stunning architectural treasure promotes Augusta's artistic and cultural events. From Choral concerts to garden festivals, you can indulge in Augusta's vibrant arts scene set against the stunning backdrop of the center's intricate design.
Remember, each venue carries a unique story waiting to be explored. Take your time at each location, allowing the tapestry of Augusta's rich cultural heritage to unfold.
Venues to Visit in Augusta in Summer
Summer in Augusta uncovers a different shade of the city's multifaceted cultural landscape. I have curated a list of three venues that capture the essence of Augusta's uniqueness.
Clarks Hill Lake and Strom Thurmond Dam: This amazing recreational lake covers nearly 71,100 acres of water and 1,200 miles of shoreline. I spent my entire childhood swimming, fishing, skiing and boating in this amazing natural area. About a 30-minute drive from the apartment, this park will offer endless hours of fun – all for a small entry fee. Here you can swim, hike, fish, sail, and laze the days away. It’s one of the best parts of summer in the area.
Savannah Rapids Park: A shorter drive gets you to Savannah Rapids Park invites you to immerse in Augusta's natural beauty. Not only does the park boast beautiful scenery, but visitors can rent a kayak or bike to explore the Augusta Canal.
Summerville Neighborhood: Lastly, explore the neighborhood around you: Summerville. This historic neighborhood lets you step back in time and admire Antebellum mansions, picturesque streets, and local landmarks during a balmy summer walk or arrange an architectural history tour.
It’s also a short walk to Augusta State University, which built on the site of the Augusta Arsenal (1826 to 1955). According to the university’s website, “the arsenal played an integral part of the equipment supply, maintenance and repair for various wars, including the Spanish-American War, World War I and World War II. In 1861, the arsenal was overturned when the state of Georgia seceded from the Union and didn’t return back to federal control until 1865.”
Remember, the summer heat in Augusta can be intense, so plan accordingly. Establish a time for visits during the cooler morning or evening hours, maintain a consistent hydration regimen, and apply a generous amount of sunscreen.
Augusta – a year round attraction
So, there you have it! Augusta, Georgia isn't just a city - it's a living, breathing story of Southern history, African-American heritage, and artistic vibrancy. No matter the season, there's always a cultural experience waiting for you. Be it the Morris Museum of Art or the Savannah Rapids Park, every corner of Augusta offers a unique insight into its rich tapestry.