Augusta, GA, is a city located in near the eastern border of Georgia, known to many as the home of James Brown. If you have the opportunity to visit, begin your morning by enjoying the views of the Savannah River, by walking along the the Augusta Riverwalk in downtown Augusta. Or, if you prefer to be on the water, a popular local past-time is kayaking down the Augusta Canal.

After you’ve enjoyed the views and gotten some exercise, you’ll want to drive by Augusta National Golf Course, home of the internationally renowned Masters Tournament each April. The surrounding grounds are only a glimpse of the beauty within the gates! After you’ve driven by the course, you can always play a round of golf at one of the area courses open to the public, by visiting the Augusta Country Club, Forest Hill Golf course, Jones Creek Golf Club, West Lake Country Club or one of the other area courses.

If golf isn’t quite your fore-te (pardon the pun), a short drive from the Augusta National Golf Course grounds, you’ll find Surrey Center, a shopping center that offers a variety of local stores catering to women’s, men’s and children’s fashions, as well as the home. A variety of local Augusta restaurants are available to suit even the most particular eater.

After your shopping is done, be sure to get a cocktail or a glass of sweet tea on the veranda of the Partridge Inn. Though it is now owned by a national hotel chain, it was originally opened in 1836, and the building retains much of the original charm. The hotel is located on Walton Way, where some of the oldest – and most extravagant – homes in Augusta are also located. These homes were originally built as summer homes for some upper-class Augusta locals, at a higher elevation to take advantage of the breezes. To the locals of today, this area is known as Summerville or “the Hill.”

As evening approaches, head to downtown Augusta to enjoy one of the many restaurants located on the main strip – Broad Street – or surrounding streets. Like moderately-sized cities, the downtown Augusta area has undergone a major revitalization in recent years. Several area chefs have opened restaurants at a variety of price points to suit any budget. One of the most popular restaurants for a good burger is Farmhaus. If tapas are your preference, try Bees Knees or Sole. Want a variety of craft beers on tap? Try Hive. If you happen to time your visit with the first Friday of a month, you’ll find downtown Augusta to be especially active – including street vendors and musicians, as well as many local businesses staying open late.

With a little guidance, Augusta, GA, is a city with a lot of history, offering many activities to fill your day or several. The city is also home to Georgia’s only public medical university – Medical College of Georgia – Augusta University – as while as Fort Gordon, an active US military base. Thanks to both large and small businesses, Augusta is a city that is thriving.