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Five Augusta activities to do in a pandemic

It seems as if we are in an alternate universe from the one we knew in January. Unfortunately, in this universe, token Augusta events such as Arts in the Heart and the Westobou Festival have been canceled. So what does Augusta have to offer its citizens and possible visitors during such times? Here is a list of things to do and places to go in 2020 Augusta. Grab a friend and a face mask and make plans for a pandemic-friendly adventure.

Explore Downtown Augusta
Nacho Mama’s famous burritos hit the spot.
Dine-in options

The Boll Weevil Cafe (little to no changes)
Augustino’s (alterations to pasta bar)
Nacho Mama’s (closes an hour early: 9:00 PM instead of 10:00 PM)
Ubora Coffee (little to no changes)

Downtown Augusta is known for it’s great restaurant options. While some places are limited to take out, others have indoor seating. Check out this list of downtown Augusta eateries. (To find more Augusta restaurants, bars, and cafes, click here.)

No dine in options

New Moon Cafe (hours have changed; outdoor seating available)
The Bee’s Knees (curbside and delivery available)
The Hive (curbside and delivery available)
Buona Caffe (outdoor seating available)
Inner Bean Cafe (takeout only)
The Pie Hole (outdoor seating, delivery, and curbside pickup available)

Spend time in the great outdoors

Taking a walk is a timeless corona-friendly activity. If you’re looking for a riverside stroll, consider the Augusta Riverwalk or Hammond’s Ferry in North Augusta. If you’d like to explore storefronts and urban views, Downtown Augusta has you covered.

You can also visit the Augusta Canal and rent a bike for a breezy ride.

More outdoor recreation can be found at the lock and dam or lake. The New Savannah Bluff Lock and Dam Park is still open for business and is great for a picnic, kite-flying, a cookout or outside sports. You can also have a beach day with your friends at Lake Olmstead or Clark’s Hill. AU students can rent kayaks for free using their student ID’s here!

Virtually visit art festivals

Although Augusta’s traditional Arts in the Heart festival has been canceled, you can still view and purchase art from art vendors on the Arts in the Heart website! Meanwhile, the Westobou art gallery is still planning and hosting art exhibits beginning in September.

Engage in theaters & museums

Augusta’s theaters have unfortunately had to postpone or cancel all of their events for a while now. But we are happy to say that Le Chat Noir has started to host regular events again. Tickets are extremely limited to maintain social distancing standards, so get your tickets now!

Lucy Craft Laney Museum of Black History

At the moment, is appears that the Imperial Theatre (often host of the Augusta Players) will have its next show in 2021. But the Miller Theater hosts a live concert event on September 18.

If you’re looking for a relaxed museum experience, check out the Morris Museum, the Augusta History Museum, and the Lucy Craft Laney Museum of Black History. All of these museums are still running, providing a Covid-19-friendly experience. Mask required.

Support local businesses

If you like puzzles and group games, consider Source Code Escape Games! This private Augusta business features escape room games that are still accessible during the virus.

A view of the Book Tavern from their balcony.

Art on Broad hosts a variety of art, including but not limited to pottery, paintings, blown glass, and jewelry. They also do custom framing and art installations. Masks are supplies if you don’t have one.

The Book Tavern is a quaint and quirky independent book store where you’re certain to find interesting reads. Book Tavern is operating on its regular hours, but is closed on Sundays. Masks and hand sanitizer are supplied.

There are many more Augusta businesses than the ones listed above that could use your support, and one way you can do this is through the We Give a Shirt Campaign by Showpony.co. We Give a Shirt creates t-shirts featuring local businesses, and the funds from t-shirt purchases go towards the businesses themselves. You not only help a small business owner, you get a unique limited-time t-shirt you’re sure to get complimented on.

The Masters Golf Tournament is the city’s primary source of income. Even though you can’t purchase a ticket for the 2020 Masters, showing your support of this event is important. Take time to show some “city spirit” and watch the Masters live. You can even whip up some party food and host a “super bowl-esque” party; if you own or can borrow a projector, you can invite your neighbors over for an outdoor viewing.

To learn more about what Augusta has to offer, listen to In the Wild’s latest special, “New Augusta, Who Dis?” featuring DropTheDis podcast hosts David Bash and Chris Nabholz. Bash and Nabholz join Raysean Ricks to discuss what makes Augusta a great place to live.

In the Wild is available on Apple, Spotify, and Google Play.

Listen to the latest episode of In the Wild.

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Rachel Visintainer Culling

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JagNation is the nerve center of student life at Augusta University. We operate on a simple premise: We give you the information you need and want to thrive at Augusta University. Look for stories and tips to help you make the grade, land a job and enjoy your time here on campus.

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