2021 Guide to Augusta

After a year of little to no travel, I know we’re all itching to plan our next trip! If you’re visiting Augusta from out-of-town, welcome to our little piece of Southern heaven! Between the Savannah River, the abundance of locally owned shops and restaurants, and of course, the golf, you’re sure to have an entertaining and memorable experience. If you’re a local looking for a little stay-cation, we hope this helps you re-discover your home in an all new way!

Where to stay:

There are plenty of places to stay across the Central Savannah River Region (CSRA), but if you’re looking for more of an experience than your average off-the-interstate hotel, we have a few suggestions!

The Partridge Inn: This is a great spot for a romantic getaway, or a family trip! The historic hotel was originally a home built in 1836, and is now owned by the Hilton Hotel Franchise. Located in Historic Downtown Augusta, the hotel includes the P.I. Bar and Grill restaurant downstairs, and a rooftop bar with views of Augusta unlike any other.

Rosemary Inn Bed & Breakfast: If you’re looking for something equally historic, but a little more quaint, the Rosemary Inn Bed & Breakfast is the place for you! Located in North Augusta, the historic mansion was built in 1902 and was once the residence of North Augusta’s founding father, James U. Jackson and his family. The B&B sits on top of a hill overlooking North Augusta, the Savannah River and beyond.

The Crowne Plaza: If you’re wanting more of traditional stay, that still has some local flavor, The Crowne Plaza is where you should head. Located directly next to North Augusta’s minor league baseball stadium, the hotel gives you easy access to several shops and restaurants. You can also enjoy fine dining without leaving the front door at the Salt and Marrow Kitchen, and then head to the rooftop to visit Jackson’s Bluff, a rooftop bar with gorgeous views of the River. 

Where to eat:

One of the best parts about a trip is discovering new restaurants! Whether you’re looking for a great hole-in-the-wall spot, or a five-star dining experience, we’ve got you covered! 

Brunch/Breakfast: 

Brunch is our favorite meal of the day, and the CSRA does not disappoint when it comes to breakfast options! 

Metro diner: If a good, old-fashioned diner is your breakfast vibe, then run, don’t walk to the Metro Diner. All of your southern classics served in big portions with a great price tag. When they offer you today’s special, just say yes! And make sure to put your name on the waiting list before heading over, because it’s always packed.

Manuel’s Bread Cafe: If you’re looking for something a little bit more upscale to meet your brunch needs, Manuel’s Bread Cafe in downtown North Augusta is the place for you! With a wide variety of options on their menu, everyone from your traditional bruncher to your more adventurous eater will be satisfied. 

Sheilas Baking Co.: If you want breakfast on the go without compromising the quality, Sheila’s Baking Co. is your spot. They serve fresh, made-from-scratch pastries every morning that will melt in your mouth, along with a great coffee menu. You can either swing by their store front in North Augusta, or find their food truck on the weekends around the CSRA. 

Frog and the Hen: If variety is the name of your brunch game, Frog and the Hen is sure to have something for everyone. Ranging from your brunch classics, to healthier options, to an extensive drink menu, this naturally-sourced restaurant will make everyone at your brunch table happy! 

Lunch:

If you’re looking for a quick bite to eat in-between your activities, or something that won’t break the bank or require a food-coma-induced nap afterwards, these spots are the perfect stop! 

Sno-Cap: Open since 1964, this old timey-styled diner is a classic jewel in North Augusta! Pull up in your car and wait for a bellhop to take your order, or sip a root beer float at the bar. If a good burger and fries is your lunch time craving, this family-friendly restaurant will hit the spot!

Farmhaus Burger: If you love local flavor and culture, look no further than Farmhaus Burger. With a slightly more upscale feel than your typical burger joint, Farmhaus’s diverse menu is sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Enjoy your meal with a delicious milkshake, and if you’re feeling especially adventurous, be sure to order that shake ‘spiked!’ 

The Southern Salad: If you’re looking for something of a healthier variety, head downtown to The Southern Salad! This newer eatery in Augusta has a ton of great salad options, and an Instagram-worthy mural out back. The food does run on the pricier side, but they’ll fill you up without leaving you overly-stuffed! 

Southbound Smokehouse: Looking for a lunch spot with a view? Southbound Smokehouse is connected to SRP Park in North Augusta, overlooking the NA Amphitheater and the Savannah River! But it’s not just the location that will wow you. Their menu has a wide variety, from tacos to BBQ, and it’s all delicious! Not to mention a full bar if you’re looking for a lunch time brew or cocktail. 

Dinner: 

Whether you’re more of a casual diner or a tapas enthusiast, or you’re looking for the perfect place for date night or a fancy last-night-in-town dinner, we’ve got you covered! 

Rhineharts Oyster Bar: We’d be remiss if we didn’t offer you a seafood option for while you’re visiting, and Rhineharts Oyster Bar is one that’s full of local flavor! Their casual, beach boardwalk-style restaurants will catch your eye from the road and transport you to the sand and waves when you step inside. Their large menu will satisfy all of your seafood cravings, just remember to wear your stretchy pants when you go, or plan on walking out with a to-go box to enjoy later! 

Whiskey Bar (Kitchen): If you’re craving some good drink and even better burgers, Whiskey Bar in downtown Augusta is your destination! Boasting an impressive whiskey menu, and some of the most unique burgers in the CSRA, Whiskey Bar is a great middle-of-the-road eatery in downtown Augusta. And be sure to order one of their homemade sauces on the side! 

Edgar’s Above Broad: An experience like none other in the CSRA, this rooftop bar and restaurant will not only satisfy your food and drink cravings, but also offer entertainment for the whole night! With a giant checkers board, putting range and bocce ball court, this is a fun spot for a night out with friends, or a family meal! If you’re looking for a dinner that will fill you up, their tapas-style menu may not do the trick, but if you’re looking for a night of fun, this is the place for you! 

Cork & Flame: If you’re in the mood for a fancy date night, Cork and Flame is the place to be! Their impressive selection of wine is sure to wow, and it’s matched by their delicious menu. Located in Evans,  Cork and Flame is well-known in the CSRA for their upscale atmosphere and impressive dinner and drink pairings.  

Where to go for entertainment:

There’s no excuse for boredom in the CSRA when there’s so much to do! Whether you’re looking to spend time in the great outdoors, or looking for an awesome group activity, there are plenty of options.

If spending time in the great outdoors is your ideal vacation, there’s no shortage of that in the CSRA! Go for a bike ride along the 22-mile North Augusta Greenway, take in the sights downtown at the Augusta Riverwalk, or take in the sights of both the Augusta Canal and the Savannah River at the New Savannah Bluff Lock & Dam Park in Evans. If you want to be on the water but don’t have your own boat, there are also several kayak rental companies along the Canal and the River!

SRP Park: If baseball is in season, catch a minor league game at SRP park in North Augusta! The Augusta Greenjackets recently became an Atlanta Braves affiliate, and will provide an afternoon of entertainment for the whole family! And even if it’s not baseball season, the park constantly has fun themed happy hours and family friendly activities, so be sure to check their social calendar!

Top Golf Augusta: A Top Golf experience unlike any other! Top Golf Augusta is the only single-story establishment in the franchise, offering a unique experience. The different layout includes a bar, a covered concert area, fire pits and even a mini golf course! But if you’re going on a weekend, make sure to make a reservation ahead of time. One level means less bays, and spots fill up quickly! 

Where to shop: 

You can shop until you drop in the CSRA! While we do have all of your favorite chain stores, we also have an abundance of locally owned shops and a great antiquing scene.

The Swank Company: If you’re looking for a local, trendy and affordable boutique, The Swank Co. is the place for you! With two locations in Augusta and Martinez, you’re sure to be a quick drive away from stylish clothes, cute accessories and fun gifts! Just be careful, or you might blow your weekend budget all in one afternoon! 

Shoppe 3130: If you’re in North Augusta, you’d be remiss not to stop at Shoppe 3031! The charming boutique may look small from the outside, but on the inside you’ll realize it’s stocked to the brim with clothes, shoes and accessories. And if you’re looking for a gift, this is the place for you, from cute coffee mugs to bath bombs, candy and much more. And be on the lookout for their boutique bus around town! 

Romantic Farmhouse Antiques: If home decor is your jam, we have the perfect place for you.! Romantic Farmhouse is an adorable locally owned antique store in Martinez. If you’re looking for anything old or new to make your house look, smell and feel great, Romantic Farmhouse is your one stop shop!

Where to play golf: 

And if you came to Augusta just to golf, we haven’t forgotten about you! If you had the fortune of scoring an invitation to Augsuta National, lucky you!! But if you’re looking for somewhere open to the public, there are a great range of courses here for you to enjoy. 

Augusta University Forest Hills Golf Course: Established in 1926, Forest Hills Golf Course is a well-known course in Augusta, with a long-rooted history in the city, including a renovation by The Arnold Palmer Company in 2003. The 18-hole course is an affordable option for golfers, and includes a driving range, practice facility, and a bar and grill. 

Bartram Trail Golf Club: Bartram Trail provides a challenging yet enjoyable layout for golfers of all ages and skill levels. If you’re traveling with kids, the club offers daily affordable rates for juniors under the age of 18. There will be plenty of opportunities to make birdies as the course features five par 5s and five par 3s. 

The River Golf Club: If you’re looking for a course with a view, look no further than The River Golf Club, running along the Savannah River in North Augusta. The course is complete with luxurious amenities, earning it the award of a top five new course nationally by Golf Digest.  

Augusta Municipal Golf Course: Designed in 1928, Augusta Municipal Golf Course is a great course if you’re looking for something more affordable, while still good quality. Complete with practice facilities, a pro shop and a clubhouse, beginners and more experienced golfers alike will enjoy their time on this course. 

Whether you spend your time eating your way through the CSRA, exploring all of our incredible nature trails and water activities, or just hanging out at your hotel and relaxing, we know if you follow this guide, you’ll have the trip of your dreams. Happy vacationing!