Your guide to Augusta watering holes

It has been said that Augusta is a drinking town with a golfing problem. Though that might be an exaggeration, there is a bevy of bars, ranging from fancy to hole-in-the-wall. For Masters Week, each will vie for the patronage of people streaming off the course. Below is a sampling of Augusta bars, sorted according to what makes them unique. So, if you are looking for ...

... James Brown memorabilia, try The Soul Bar (984 Broad St.). This downtown bar was named in honor of the Godfather of Soul and is decorated with concert posters featuring Brown, and an amazing array of posters of other musicians and pop culture icons. This weekend, the bar will hold its '80s Night party, featuring the spinning skills of owner Coco Rubio. See www.soulbar.com.

... the closest cold one , try Somewhere in Augusta (2820 Washington Road). Not only is Somewhere a short walk down Washington Road from Augusta National Golf Club but this weekend it will feature performances by Sam Thacker, Grayson Hill, Edison Project and Joe Stevenson. See somewhereinaugusta.com.

... a bull you can ride , try The Country Club Dance Hall & Saloon (2834 Washington Road). This upscale honky-tonk will have its bull set up for all the electric cowboys, and live music by The Swingin' Medallions (a Masters favorite), the Michael Stacey Band and Rebel Syndicate. Shooters of pool might mosey next door to Robbie's, where a sea of green felt awaits. See www.augusta country.com.

... live local music , try Sky City (1157 Broad St.). Performers this weekend include Hog Slobber, the Decrepits, Jacob Beltz, Edison Project, Will McCranie, Turf War, Eat Lightning and the Shaun Piazza Band. See skycityaugusta. com.

... an impressive view of Augusta, try the Eagle's Nest Lounge (640 Broad St.). Situated atop Ramada Plaza Hotel, this bar features commanding views of downtown Augusta and the Hill beyond. Sorry, golf fans, but Augusta National is just out of sight. Call (706) 722-5541.

... a place to blow some smoke , try Tribeca Buddha Lounge and Shoe Bar (968 Broad St.). The definition of Buddha Lounge and shoe bar remains elusive, but the hookahs do not. This downtown bar recently introduced communal smoking pipes to its repertoire, allowing patrons to puff on flavored tobacco (shisha to those in the know) while enjoying a cocktail. Call (706) 828-4433.

... a place with bass , try Vue (269 Highland Ave.). This dance club features an array of drink specials, theme nights and, most notably, dance music. For those looking for a little more sedate dance experience, pop a few doors down to Surrey Tavern , where the soul revue Playback will be in residence. Call (706) 364-0786 (Vue) or (706) 736-8264 (Surrey Tavern).

... a place with twang , try Still Water Tap Room (974 Broad St.). A beautiful bar with dozens of beers on tap, Still Water regularly features the best in regional Americana, bluegrass and classic country. This weekend, the bar will feature the Packway Handle Band, the Papa String Band and Galen Kipar. Call (706) 826-9857.

... a place to play Jenga , try The Playground (978 Broad St.). Return visitors might remember this bar's old location. Last month, it moved to new, and considerably fancier, digs. Look for live music, signature shots and cocktails, and all those games you dug as a kid. Call (706) 724-2232.

... a place to avoid all those young whippersnappers , try Shannon's (300 Shartom Drive). A place frequented by patrons who have matured beyond beer bongs and dancing on the bar, Shannon's is popular for its bar, food and occasional karaoke. See www.shannonsfoodand spirits.com.

... a place to bark like a dog , try Coyote's (2512 Peach Orchard Road). Though the barking thing is not the norm at Coyote's, tonight the country club will feature hypnotist Gary Conrad. You are getting sleepy. Call (706) 560-9245.

... a place for a late-night java , try Metro A Coffeehouse and Pub , (1054 Broad St.). Though the traditional beers and other bar fare are available, Metro keeps the pot brewing into the evening. Great for keeping the designated driver awake. Call (706) 722-6468.

... an alternative to the Stairmaster , try Joe's Underground (144 Eighth St.). It's 13 steps down, then 13 steps back up at the end of the night. The basement bar features live music and great atmosphere. The smoke-sensitive should note it is not known for its air circulation and smells like 20 years of cigarettes. Lounge Lizards, Daddy Grace and Tony Williams and the Blues Express perform this weekend. Call (706) 724-9457.

Reach Steven Uhles at (706) 823-3626 or steven.uhles@augustachronicle.com.