Last week in North Georgia, Destination Augusta took home two awards at the annual tourism convention.
Many members were on hand to take home The Bill Hardman Sr. Tourism Champion Award for Product Development, for the concept, funding support, launch, and delivery of the Authentic Augusta Experience collection.
“During the development of the Authentic Augusta Experience Collection, Destination Augusta worked with 10 partners through a year-long development process. Partners were equipped with tools for ideation, creation, scripting, and delivery of these novel experiences. Each experience engages all five senses—taste, touch, sight, hearing, and smell—to etch lasting memories for visitors,” shared Jennifer Bowen, Vice President of Destination Development and Community Engagement.
Destination Augusta was also named one of the five 2024 Travelblazers by Georgia Trend. The Authentic Augusta Experience collection was awarded this recognition for partnering with 10 organizations to create this new product. Experience partners include eight non-profit cultural attractions and two are owner/operator entrepreneurs. The Georgia Trend Travelblazer award winners will be featured in the July issue of the magazine.
“The goal was to craft immersive experiences to revitalize cultural attractions and embrace two small businesses giving each a new source of revenue. With the combined efforts of the experience teams at each venue, we have developed a way to connect with locals and visitors in a way they can only experience in our city,” revealed Sarah Childers, Experience and Community Development Manager.
Destination Augusta and the Augusta Sports Council also announced they expect about 4,250 visitors to attend meetings, reunions, events, and sporting events in February in Augusta’s River Region.
A few events include a Paine College Alumni Homecoming meeting starting February 9th, along with the Augusta Sports Council’s 2024 Augusta Half Marathon, 10K & 5K the last weekend in February.