Augusta City Guide

Southern comfort foods like shrimp and grits and peach cobbler are local favorites. There are Mexican, Asian, and Italian restaurants too. Vegetarian and vegan options are growing. Late-night food choices are mostly fast food or bars.

Nightlife centers on downtown Broad Street with bars, pubs, and live music spots. The scene is active but modest in variety.

A small but growing coffee scene with local and chain cafes, especially downtown.

Tipping is expected. Around 15-20% in restaurants, 10-15% for rideshares, and 15-20% for other personal services.

SIM cards can be bought from AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile, and Boost Mobile stores. Prepaid plans may require less ID than postpaid. eSIM depends on carrier and phone.

Downtown and residential areas are mostly clean with regular waste collection and recycling.

Some late-night pharmacies, convenience stores, and fast-food places operate 24/7. Night clinics are rare.

Supermarkets like Kroger, Publix, and Walmart have a wide selection. Specialty international items are available at smaller stores. Most shops open 7 AM to 10 or 11 PM and are open Sundays.

Most places accept credit and debit cards. Cash is accepted but less common.

ATMs are common at major banks like Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and Truist. Out-of-network ATM fees range from $2.50 to $5.

Local public and private schools are available, including Augusta Preparatory Day School and Aquinas High School. The Augusta International Academy offers an international curriculum. English is the main language taught.

A small but growing nomad scene tied to local tech and cybersecurity groups. Meetups happen but are not regular.

Parks like Phinizy Swamp and Pendleton King Park offer green space with trails and shaded areas.

Good running routes along the Riverwalk and parks. Running groups exist and safety is decent in popular areas.

Several gyms and fitness centers offer options for different workout styles.

Public parks and clubs like Newman Tennis Center have courts, though booking varies.

Padel courts are rare but can be found at some private clubs.

Multiple yoga studios offer various class styles with drop-in options and English-speaking instructors.

Facilities for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Taekwondo, and Karate are available, some with drop-in and English instruction.

No skiing nearby.

Kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing are possible on the Savannah River and nearby lakes.

No surfing; city is inland.

No diving or snorkeling spots.

Hospitals like Augusta University Medical Center and Doctors Hospital offer quality care with English-speaking staff. Pharmacies like CVS and Walgreens are common with many drive-thru options.

Tap water meets EPA safety standards and is safe to drink.

Parks with playgrounds and kid-friendly cafes are around. Baby supplies can be bought easily. Attractions include the Augusta Riverwalk and Phinizy Swamp Nature Park.

Generally welcoming with some inclusive venues and community groups. Legal protections vary by area.

Pet-friendly parks and dog parks like Pendleton King Park exist. Vet services and pet supply stores are common.