Can you keep a secret? …Or how about eleven of them? Augusta is known world-wide for its excellent golf, delicious foodie vibessoulful history and outdoor adventures, but much of the destination’s charm can be found in its hidden gems, from local oddities to historical treasures. Scroll through our list of hidden gems and must-see places in a city full of surprises. 

Green Kayaker

Get Your Feet Wet at the Augusta Canal and Aqueduct Park 

This is the only trail in the area that’s within easy riding distance from a large population area. It sits on a small piece of land between the Savannah River and the Augusta Canal. To make the best use of the land the trail is very tight and twisty, making it a great place to work on your cornering skills. There aren’t any big climbs, but there are a few short steep rooty grunts that can test your skills. It’s a little trail, but it is big on fun. 

The Rae's Creek Aqueduct is a remarkable pre-Civil War structure in Augusta, Georgia. Now part of the Augusta Canal National Heritage Area, the aqueduct is part of a park that fascinates visitors because of its ancient stone arches, rocky outcrops and the rushing waters of one of the best waterfalls in Augusta's River Region. This park features a 19th-century granite aqueduct, plus a waterfall, swimming & rock climbing. If you need a great place to explore this summer, this cool spot is kid-friendly and is safe to swim & wade, however, the rocks are very slippery and we recommend you bring water shoes. You can access the Aqueduct Park from the Augusta Canal near the Lake Olmstead Trailhead. Take the Mill Village Trail and you will find it on your right. 

 

top golf; kid friendly; family; augusta

All FORE Golf in Augusta 

Augusta’s newest golf edition is nothing less than being the first of its kind. Top Golf Augusta is finally open and we are here FORE it and trust us, Augusta knows its golf. We encourage you to visit this golf extravaganza unlike any other, so we're including below a few items to keep in mind while planning your Tiger Woods swing. 

If you are an avid golfer, feel free to skip on over the river to visit the River Golf Club for a round of golf with exquisite scenery of both Georgia and South Carolina. 

 

biking; beers; brews
Brews and Biking 

FATS, located in the Sumter National Forest in South Carolina, is the crown jewel of the mountain bike scene, and the only IMBA Epic in South Carolina. It’s 37 miles of fast, swoopy, roller coaster like purpose built mountain bike trails. There are six individual loops, each with a slightly different feel and the trails will satisfy both beginners and experienced riders alike. There is very little technical terrain at FATS so anyone can ride here and likely clean every inch of trail. What makes this trail fun is the speed – it’s easy to get, and easy to keep. But you do have to be careful with all that speed: there’s a bunch whoop-de-doos that will throw you over the handlebars if you’re not careful.

Swing by Savannah River Brewing Co. after a full day on the trail for a selection of locally-made brews that fit the trail you like most. From a locally-made brew called Swamp Thing to Savannah River themed IPA's, this spot has you covered for a cool down you won't soon forget. 

 

sculpture trail; public art augusta

Take Augusta's Sculpture Trail 

Explore our arts and culture scene with Augusta’s newest outdoor attraction, the Augusta Sculpture Trail. The Trail features 10 sculptures by nationally renowned artists placed throughout downtown Augusta making for a fun easy outdoor walking trail. Learn more about each work of art and engage in a variety of mobile activities through the digital walking tour available by downloading the Otocast app on your mobile device.

Loving the arts & culture scene? Celebrate creativity and culture at this year's ArtsCity Festival with a chance to explore downtown Augusta and shop for new handmade arts and fine crafts, sample delicious international food and see showcase performances by talent from all over the Southeast. 

 

edgars above broad; rooftop; bar

Restaurants with a View 

Whether enjoying the putting green, bocce ball court or sipping a signature cocktail and checking out the activity in the burgeoning arts district below, Edgar’s Above Broad is the place to go up to get down. The fun atmosphere, unbeatable ambience and incredible food and drink menus make the rooftop the perfect stop in downtown Augusta. 

In the mood for a little different scenery? How about a view of SRP Park on the South Carolina side of your journey? We thought so, so you must swing by the new Drift Raw Bar for a delicious oyster setting that serves up a dozen reason to visit on the half shell. This restaurant serves up a second-story view of the baseball park you won't want to miss.