Roses: Play 9 through Augusta

“As you walk down the fairway of life you must smell the roses, for you only get to play one round.” - Ben Hogan

Part of the beauty of the Masters Golf Tournament is the utopia of landscape that surrounds all 18 holes of Augusta National. (Shout out and much thanks and respect to all the groundskeepers!) Some of my favorite memories of attending The Masters is that little bit of time after play has concluded for the day and right before the gates are shut. I often use this time to stroll a few holes and take in the beauty of the course. Just this past year I gazed at the sun setting over hole number one and stood in awe. I wish I had a picture to share with you as it was the most beautiful sunset that I have ever seen. Sometimes there are 'sunsets' all around us and because of our to-do lists, responsibilities and the general chaos of life, we tend to rush through life overlooking the 'roses'.

Here are nine quick and inexpensive ways to take in the beauty of Augusta. We all work hard and we all deserve a few 'roses' in our lives. Pencil in an appointment with yourself or with those special people in your life to take a break and smell the 'roses' of Augusta. (Even if you've already 'been there before', visit often as new 'roses' emerge and you never know what new 'sunset' you'll come across.) 

Play 9 through Augusta:

1. Artists Row: A wonderful collection of art galleries and shops in Downtown Augusta. Fill your home or office with art made by local artists and support our community at the same time. It's always FREE to look and take in the beauty of Augusta art!
2. Augusta Museum of History: A showcase of Augusta history, legends and of course, G-O-L-F! The best bang for your buck to learn more about the lesser known facts of our past and more about what makes Augusta unique. 
3. Morris Museum of Art: A wonderful way to learn about the art and the artists of the South. By the way, Sundays are always FREE!
4. Le Chat Noir: An Augusta original that's sure to leave a smile on your soul! Take in a show and make a few new friends! 
5. Phinizy Swamp Nature Park: A peaceful park full of nature, wetlands and wildlife. It's always FREE!
6. Gertrude Herbert Institute of Art: Art exhibitions and a vast array of classes are offered. Admission to the gallery is always FREE!
7. Augusta Canal: Learn, explore and be sure to check out one of the many canal tours given on the beau-TEE-ful Petersburg Canal boats!  
8. Lucy Craft Laney Museum of Black History: Immerse yourself in the richness of African American art and history and honor the legacy of Ms. Lucy Craft Laney! 
9. Augusta Riverwalk: Take a stroll along the Savannah River and be sure to look around at all the beauty of our great city!

Here's to learning new things, exploring new places and meeting new friends! I hope that you find a little time in your busy schedule to take in a few Augusta 'roses'. I'm always open to hearing about your favorite Augusta places, please feel free to reach me at sandie@augustagolfgirl.com. {Cheers!}