Augusta GA: An Honest Review

Augusta, Georgia, whew, chile! It gave me a lot to write about in this review, but since I like keeping my articles bite-size, I will do my best to keep this travel log from being a one-hour read. This trip was initially intended to see my niece dance in a competition in Augusta. Unfortunately, the competition was canceled after I purchased airfare and prepaid the car rental. We, a crew of us, decided to go anyway, and I am so glad we made that decision.

Flying into Augusta from New England was rather expensive, so I decided to fly into Greenville/Spartanburg, SC, and make the 2.5-hour drive to Augusta, where my parents, who drove down with their travel trailer, were waiting for me. Now, I know you are thinking that’s a long ass drive, and it is, but it was the most scenic and relaxing drive I think I have ever taken! Imagine being on the tree-lined roads where every home is on acres and acres of land, and there is a personal pond on every property! The air was so fresh and crisp! If it weren’t so hot, I would have driven with the windows down the whole ride.

Arriving In Augusta, GA

My first impression of Augusta was a laid-back vibe. It reminded me of being in the country but more fast-paced. I’ve been to many cities, and hands down, Augusta is one of the cleanest cities I have ever seen. Some of the houses could have used a little work, but for the most part, they resembled homes you would see in any other southern town.

Downtown was kind of empty for most of the days that I stayed there except for the last day. I personally enjoy less crowded spaces, so the lack of people downtown didn’t bother me at all. On my final day, I stumbled upon a live R&B band performing in a park about two blocks from the hotel that I was staying at.

Eating in Augusta Review

Augusta has your typical dining options: Popeyes, KFC, McDonald’s, Burger King…you know, the usual. Then there is Big Mama’s dining establishment on Wrightsboro Rd that serves soul food. Growing up in a home with a southern mama, you become accustomed to such foods as collard greens, okra, sweet potatoes, oxtails, and many other southern cuisines. So, stumbling upon Big Mama’s was a treat! The oxtails, fried okra, and fried green tomatoes were delicious! The rice was a little mushy for my liking, but I didn’t need the extra carbs anyway.

Wait, did I mention Waffle House? There was one on every corner, literally! In the South, Waffle House is a staple dining establishment for breakfast. Every time I travel to a southern state, I must eat there, and this trip was no exception. I’ll take the grand slam, please!

Southern Hospitality

I am big on a city’s hospitality, and Augusta did not disappoint! The men hold doors! I was all the way in the parking lot, and this gentleman held the door until I got there and waited for me to go in first! In the north, you’re lucky if they hold the door when you’re right in back of them.

Everyone, and I mean everyone, speaks! It’s refreshing to hear, “Hi, how are you today?’ The people in Augusta GA smile as they greet you! Unlike its sister city that rhymes with Balanta, Augusta is not lacking in southern hospitality, and I am here for it!

The Best To Do’s

I’m sure Augusta has tons of things to offer, and I am sure I probably did not do most of them, but what I did do, I thoroughly enjoyed.

Murials – Many murials in downtown Augusta display the love and pride for the city.
Topgolf—Whether you hit the driving range or mini-golf, you will enjoy this family-friendly venue that is also budget-friendly. My nieces and I mini-golfed for $27. The driving range was $43/hour for up to 6 people. That comes out to just over $7/pp!
Augusta Riverwalk – Talk about beautiful! The design layout is exceptional! The path follows the Savannah River. The RiverWalk is located directly behind the Marriott Hotel I stayed at, making it perfect for the just before dusk stroll. The path is filled with trees and gorgeous flowers. I stopped and sat on a swing, gazing across the river at the stunning riverfront homes. Just being on the walk filled me with so much love. It is a romantic spot couples should put on their to do list.

4-Day-2 Adults 3 Children

Cost

Season: Late Spring (June)

Breeze Airways $150/round trip to Greenville/Spartanburg, SC

Lodging: Marriott Suites: $288

Transportation: $191 with National via Priceline + $36 for auto insurance. Since I only have liability coverage on my personal vehicle, I purchased the added insurance from Alliance to cover repairs to the car in case of an accident.

Food: $120. My father paid for most of the food on this trip since my niece and great nieces were in attendance, leaving me with little out-of-pocket cost for food.

Price Per Person

The total cost of the trip was approximately $785. The best thing about traveling with family is the good memories that we make. I generally foot the bill when my nieces accompany me on holiday. To me, it is worth every penny that I spend.

Recommendation

I would definitely recommend Augusta GA, as a travel destination, especially as a family! Everything is conveniently located, the people are pleasant, and the sites are gorgeous! I would, however, avoid the summer because boy, was it hot…lol!

Check out our favorite gallery pics of Augusta, GA, on our Instagram page