Ready to experience Augusta, Georgia like a creator who finds the good stuff everywhere he goes? Follow David White, better known as The Dropping Pin, through a three-day downtown adventure stacked with local flavor, colorful murals, river views, and one of the Southeast’s favorite festivals. Use this itinerary to plan a weekend that blends can’t-miss eats, photo-worthy stops, and only-in-Augusta experiences.
Day One
Start at Augusta & Co.
Kick off your weekend at Augusta’s Experience Center to meet the team, grab festival credentials, get insider tips, and pick up authentic Augusta souvenirs. While you’re there, browse locally made goods and maps.
Browse Shops on Broad
Stroll Broad Street and pop into a few local favorites: Freshwater Curated Goods for handcrafted leather and accessories, The Book Tavern for new & used reads, Land of Thee for Augusta-proud apparel, and Grantski Records for new releases and vintage vinyl.
Check in at Hyatt House
Settle into Hyatt House Augusta, a downtown home base within walking distance of restaurants, galleries, and the festival footprint.
Stroll the Augusta Riverwalk
Get fresh air and Savannah River views along landscaped paths, gardens, and playgrounds at Augusta's Riverwalk - the city’s scenic “front porch.”
Walk the 5th Street Pedestrian Bridge
Cross from Georgia toward South Carolina on the 5th Street Pedestrian Bridge, a car-free landmark with wide river vistas and great photo spots.
Dig into BBQ at Fifth & Fire
Refuel with bold barbecue, craft cocktails, and a cozy downtown vibe at Fifth & Fire. A new and easy local favorite for dinner.
Treat Yourself at The Boll Weevil Café & Sweetery
Finish the night at Boll Weevil Cafe & Sweetery. Known for their towering, homemade cakes inside a historic cotton-warehouse setting just steps from the Riverwalk.
Catch Live Music at Fox’s Lair
If you’re up for more, Fox's Lair is an intimate basement venue in a beloved local spot for acoustic sets and open-mic nights.
Day Two
Fuel Up at The Brunch House of Augusta
Start strong at The Brunch House of Augusta, where scratch-made Southern staples and big portions fuel a full festival day downtown.
Discover the James Brown Exhibit
At the Augusta Museum of History, explore the James Brown Exhibit, home to the largest collection of Godfather of Soul memorabilia and stories rooted in Augusta.
Hunt Murals on a Self-Guided Public Art Walk
Track down Augusta’s most colorful walls on a DIY tour of Augusta murals, including the Spirit of Funk: James Brown Mural, Robot and the Moon, Girl with Butterflies, SoSal Augusta Mural, the Augusta “I Love You” wall, and so many more! Local Tip: Check out our blog on Must-See Outdoor Murals for the full list!
Dive into Arts in the Heart of Augusta Festival
Spend the afternoon at Arts in the Heart of Augusta, taking in live performances, artist booths, and community vibes across the downtown footprint.
Taste the World at the Global Food Village
Eat your way through the Global Food Village at Arts in the Heart, sampling authentic dishes from 19+ cultural booths - always a crowd favorite.
Add Solé Augusta for Late-Night Bites
If you’re still hungry, Solé Augusta serves late-night sushi, tapas, and burgers with a lively downtown patio scene.
Day Three
Check in on the Augusta Coffee Trail
Unlock the FREE Augusta Coffee Trail mobile pass and sip your way through local cafés to earn prizes. Try a couple of David’s downtown picks before you roll out: Commander Coffee, The New Moon Café, or Buona Caffe.
Wrap It Up with Lunch at Tacocat
Close the loop downtown with bold Tex-Mex, good vibes, and refreshing margaritas at TacoCat before you hit the road.
Depart Augusta
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That’s how to experience Augusta like The Dropping Pin: one part arts & culture, one part river views, and a whole lot of local flavor. Download the FREE Augusta Experience Guide to plan your next visit, then follow @thedroppingpin for more one-of-a-kind adventures and hidden-gem finds.
Discover and support Black-owned restaurants, shops, and experiences with Augusta’s Bold Black-Owned Business Pass. This digital pass highlights the creativity and entrepreneurship shaping Augusta’s culture today. Download the pass and explore with purpose.