Tourism is big business in Augusta, and it’s not just related to one week each April.
While golf brings tourists from around the globe, another sports such as this weekend’s Head of the South Regatta and IRONMAN, family reunions, conventions and arts events such as Arts in the Heart of Augusta generated $890 million for Augusta’s economy in 2024, according to figures released at the annual Augusta State of Tourism: The Feel Good City celebration on Nov. 5 at the Augusta Marriott at the Convention Center.
These numbers included $240 million in food and beverage; $195 million in entertainment and recreation, $196 million in lodging and $125 million in retail and shopping.
Destination Augusta, the Augusta Sports Council and Film Augusta honored four residents and one business and showcased how tourism continues to fuel Augusta’s growth, vibrancy and quality of life.
The Augusta Tourism Awards, honoring the individuals and organizations whose passion continues to elevate Augusta’s visitor experience, were presented to Dr. Deanna Brown Thomas, the daughter of the Godfather of Soul James Brown, who continues to promote Augusta as she furthers her father’s legacy and Sean Frantom who received the President’s Awards; artist Leonard “Porkchop” Zimmerman, received the Community Spirit Award; Terrance Williams received Film Augusta Partner of the Year; and The Klugo Restaurant Group received the Partner of the Year Award.
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