Frog Hollow
BEYOND THE MASTERS
Built in 1845 to harness the Savannah River, the Augusta Canal was
once the main source of power and transportation in the region.
The waterway now offers a tranquil way to see the Augusta Canal
National Heritage Area via multiple boat tours that explore the
history and nature of the city, as well as take in the sunset and sets
of live music. The on-site Canal Discovery Center also has interactive
exhibits detailing its rich history.
Hikers, cyclists, and runners take full advantage of the miles of trails
in nearby Savannah Rapids Park, while canoers and kayakers can rent
equipment and life jackets for a personal paddle across the water.
The 33-acre park, which overlooks Reed Creek Falls as it flows into
the Historic Augusta Canal, also comes with picnic pavilions that offer
shade, rest, and a place to eat lunch or simply listen to the water
rushing past.
A second great option of outdoor fun is the Augusta Riverwalk, a
city park that runs along the Savannah River from 11th Street to the
Gordon Highway Bridge. There are children’s playgrounds, gardens,
fountains, and picnic areas along the multilevel walkways. It also
allows access to the Jessye Norman Amphitheater which hosts
concerts and festivals throughout the year.
The Imperial Theatre, which began its life as The Wells Theatre in
1918, with vaudeville shows and photoplays, now presents a beautiful
venue to enjoy ballet, theater, musicals, and concerts. Guests can
also take a tour to explore the fascinating architecture and history of
the building and its century of performances.
Like many Southern states, Georgia is teaming with wildlife and
the Phinizy Swamp Nature Park offers a hands-on experience
to understand the local ecosystem. Visitors can spot great blue
herons, red-shouldered hawks, river otters, and elusive alligators
in their natural environment via walking trails or guided hikes. The
Visitor Center expands the learning with natural history exhibits and
information on the creatures living at the 1,100-acre park, plus a hive
with an active bee colony.
W H E R E T O S TAY
The historic Olde Town Inn is a self-proclaimed “bed and bar,” instead
of a bed and breakfast, with five period-furnished guest rooms with
gas fireplaces. Downstairs find the Fox’s Lair, a cozy underground pub
that claims to be “the coolest place you’ll never find,” with regular live
music, especially at weekends.
Just across the Georgia-South Carolina state line in Aiken is The
Willcox Hotel, opened in 1900 by Englishman Frederick Willcox.
The estate reflects his love of rural life and horses, offers riding
lessons, and hosts polo, show jumping, steeplechase, and three-day
competitions in the nearby Hitchcock Woods, the largest privately
owned urban forest in America. For those more comfortable in golf
shoes than in the saddle, the Aiken Golf Club, River Golf Club, and
Houndslake Country Club are all open to the public. Guests can then
soak aching muscles in tubs and get a massage in the full-service spa.
FLYWASHINGTON.COM 32 SPRING 2019
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