Like some of our other larger cities (ahem, we're looking at you, Macon!), Augusta, Georgia gets something of a bad rap from locals. As a metropolitan area, it's thought of as dirty, unsafe, and full of nothing but drab buildings and pollution. However, it's actually a wonderful city for a weekend trip in Georgia. Check out a few of our favorite attractions in Augusta, GA:

Augusta is a haven of culture, history, and shopping attractions. This city of 200,000 people lies right along the border with South Carolina and truly has something for everyone.

Augusta Riverwalk

The Augusta Riverwalk is the crown jewel of one of the best waterfront downtowns in Georgia. This paved trail runs along the Savannah River, which separates Augusta from South Carolina. There are often food trucks parked here, and you can frequently find festivals and concerts going on in the area.

Phinizy Swamp Nature Park: 1858 Lock and Dam Rd, Augusta, GA 30906

Phinizy Swamp Nature Park is that oh-so-rare attraction of a natural preserve nestled within a major city. This 1,100-acre refuge has free admission and miles of trails, including a boardwalk trail that will let you get a great glimpse of the marsh below.

Augusta Museum of History: 560 Reynolds St, Augusta, GA 3090

The Augusta Museum of History is one of the state's oldest regional history museums and it provides a fascinating look back in time at the history of the greater Augusta area.

You'll find a variety of traveling and permanent exhibits here, including a section devoted to James Brown, the Godfather of Soul and Augusta's homegrown hero.

Morris Museum of Art: 1 10th St 2nd Floor, Augusta, GA 30901

Another interesting museum in Augusta, Georgia is the Morris Museum of Art. It's the oldest museum in the country devoted exclusively to artists from the American South. There are more than 5,000 works of art here dating back to the late 18th century.

The Boyhood Home of President Woodrow Wilson: 419 7th St, Augusta, GA 30901

Though President Woodrow Wilson was born in Virginia, he spent part of his childhood in Augusta. The Boyhood Home of Woodrow Wilson is now a museum that looks back at his illustrious career and how his experiences in Augusta shaped him.

Augusta Canal National Heritage Area: 1450 Greene St #400, Augusta, GA 30901

Looking for something a little more active? Enjoy a canal boat ride down the Savannah River. You'll learn all about the history of Augusta and also enjoy free admission to the Canal Discovery Center.

Imperial Theatre: 749 Broad St, Augusta, GA 30901

Fans of live entertainment won't want to miss a show at the beautiful Imperial Theatre. Opened in 1918, it's the only operating historic theater in Augusta. Concerts, musicals, dance recitals, and more take place here.

For even more great things to do in Augusta, Georgia, check out the Visit Augusta website or Facebook page.