AUGUSTA, Ga. – Augusta is basking in the glow of another successful year as its tourism sector continues to flourish. On Wednesday afternoon, Destination Augusta hosted its annual State of Tourism gathering at the Marriott Convention Center. This event celebrated the individuals, narratives, and industries contributing to the city’s vitality.

Augusta has become a magnet for visitors nationwide, thanks to its diverse attractions, from the prestigious Masters Tournament to its vibrant arts scene and local sports events.

Jennifer Bowen from Destination Augusta highlighted the economic benefits, noting, “Visitors are dining at our restaurants and bars and shopping at our local venues.” She emphasized how this influx of tourist spending supports local employment and enhances residents’ quality of life.

In 2024, the impact of visitor spending was substantial, injecting nearly $890 million into the local economy. This expenditure spans various sectors, including food, lodging, entertainment, recreation, and transportation, underscoring the significant role tourism plays in Augusta’s economic landscape.

In 2024 alone, visitor spending generated nearly $890 million in the local economy—including spending on food, lodging, entertainment, recreation, and transportation.

But tourism in Augusta is expanding beyond traditional events and attractions. The city is becoming a growing hub for film production.

“A lot of stuff that we can do in Augusta that we can’t do in the larger cities that would then allow us to be able to move around, be able to shoot on site while some different properties that we can shoot without it being too congested,” said Augusta film professional Terrence Williams.

Williams says he worked on several scenes from the second Suicide Squad movie filmed in Augusta. Other notable productions filmed here include The Hill, starring Dennis Quaid, and The Mule, directed by Clint Eastwood.

Whether it’s film, the Masters Tournament, or local events, Augusta continues to draw visitors, and it makes people proud to show off their home town .

Destination Augusta also presented tourism awards to several people and an organization recognized for their work to enhance visitor experiences in the area. 

President’s Awards: Deanna Brown Thomas & Sean Frantom

Community Spirit Award: Leonard Zimmerman

Film Augusta Partner of the Year: Terrence Williams 

Partner of the Year Award: The Klugo Restaurant Group