This year we're celebrating National Travel & Tourism Week on May 3-9, and although in-person rallies and events are not an option this year, we are engaging by rallying around the #SpiritOfTravel instead. Our community benefits from the spirit of travel, which permeates through our passion for arts and entertainment, our zest for adventure in the outdoors, our love for local history, and our appetite for delicious cuisine.

Throughout the week, we encourage our residents to inspire the spirit of travel by celebrating the birthday of the Godfather of Soul, join us in helping to recognize the exemplary members of the hospitality industry, and participate in writing a “love note” to our city hallmarks showing our support, appreciation, and most of all, our love. 

Driving Down Memory Lane 

Lucky us, the city that we love and call home is overflowing with history and great architecture that we are still able to enjoy even while social distancing. We have a driving tour of a few of our favorite landmarks that all work harmoniously in telling the timeless stories of why we love Augusta. Take a ride back through time or make an at-home history lesson, one stop at a time.

Meadow Garden

Meadow Garden was the home of George Walton, one of the youngest signers of the Declaration of Independence. The historic house museum is not currently open, but is a National Historic Landmark and on the National Registry of Historic Places.

ProTip: Follow Meadow Garden on Instagram (@historicmeadowgarden) for updates and content. 

James Brown Statue

Located at the heart of downtown, on Broad Street is a life-sized statue of The Godfather of Soul, Mr. James Brown honoring his legacy as an Augusta native.

ProTip: Hop out of your car and snap a photo of you with the iconic statue. Be sure to share on social using #LoveAugusta. 

Boyhood Home of President Woodrow Wilson

United States President Woodrow Wilson lived here from 1860-1870, the longest period spent in one residence, while his father served as pastor of the First Presbyterian Church. Tours on the hour. Groups of 10 or more, please call ahead.

ProTip: Incorporate a field trip into your at-home history lesson with a drive by of the historic home - completely visible from the road as you socially distance in your car. 

Morris Museum History Lessons

The Morris Museum of Art is all about tying together the importance of history and education. They are currently offering programs for locals and visitors of all ages. Whether you’re an artist looking for inspiration or just coordinating a tour or activity. This local favorite is currently not open to the public due to health precautions, however, feel free to check out their digital library available on our blog by clicking here.

ProTip: Have an art day while sharing Augusta's history - complete with coloring sheets of famous paintings provided by The Morris Museum of Art. 

Lucy C. Laney Museum of Black History 

The Lucy Craft Laney Museum of Black History is the largest African American Museum in the Augusta's River Region. The museum, which opened in 1991, is a small house museum that was the former home of Miss Lucy Craft Laney.