Savannah Rapids Pavilion is a scenic park located along the Augusta Canal in Columbia County, Georgia. It offers a variety of attractions and activities for visitors of all ages and interests, such as hiking, biking, kayaking, fishing, picnicking, and more. The park also features a historic visitor center, a restored lockkeeper’s cottage, and a beautiful waterfall. In this article, we will explore the history and beauty of Savannah Rapids Pavilion, and why it is a hidden gem in Augusta.
History of Savannah Rapids Pavilion
Savannah Rapids Pavilion is a scenic park located along the Augusta Canal and Reed Creek waterfall in Columbia County, Georgia. The park has a rich history that dates back to prehistoric times when it was inhabited by Native Americans who left behind pottery and shell mounds on Stallings Island. The rapids of the Savannah River also marked the head of navigation for early traders and explorers, and the site of a Shawnee village that influenced the establishment of Augusta.
The park’s most prominent feature is the historic Augusta Canal, which was built in 1845-1846 to harness the power of the rapids for industrial development. The canal’s headgates, located at the park, control the flow of water from the river into the canal, which runs for 8.5 miles through Augusta and back into the river. The canal was expanded twice in the late 1800s and early 1900s and became a National Heritage Area in 1996.
The park also features a restored lockkeeper’s cottage, which was built in 1880 and served as the residence of the canal’s caretaker. The cottage now houses the Columbia County Visitor Center, which offers information and brochures for the entire state of Georgia, as well as a veranda with a view of the canal and river.
Savannah Rapids Park is a popular destination for nature lovers, who can enjoy hiking, biking, kayaking, fishing, picnicking, and more at the park. The park also has a multi-purpose venue, the Savannah Rapids Pavilion, which can host various events and functions for up to 750 guests. The pavilion has a natural and elegant wood-beamed, vaulted ceiling, and balconies overlooking the canal and river.
Savannah Rapids Park is a hidden gem in Augusta, where visitors can experience the history and beauty of the Savannah River and the Augusta Canal.
A hidden gem in Augusta
Savannah Rapids Pavilion is a hidden gem in Augusta because it offers a unique combination of natural beauty, historical significance, and recreational opportunities. It is a place where visitors can enjoy the scenic views of the Savannah River and the Augusta Canal, learn about the history of the canal and its role in the industrial development of Augusta, and participate in various activities such as hiking, biking, kayaking, fishing, and picnicking. It is also a venue for hosting events and functions, such as weddings, parties, meetings, and concerts. Savannah Rapids Pavilion is a park that has something for everyone and is a great destination for locals and tourists alike.
Events at Savannah Rapids Pavilion
Savannah Rapids Pavilion is a versatile venue that can host various events and functions for different occasions and purposes. Some of the popular events hosted at the pavilion are:
- Weddings and receptions:
The pavilion offers a romantic and elegant setting for couples to exchange vows and celebrate their special day. The pavilion can accommodate up to 750 guests, and has a commercial-grade kitchen, a fireplace, and balconies overlooking the canal and river
- Parties and celebrations:
The pavilion is a great place to host birthday parties, anniversaries, reunions, graduations, and other social gatherings. The pavilion has a dance pavilion, a dining hall, and a BBQ pit that can be rented for different needs and preferences
- Meetings and conferences:
 The pavilion is a suitable venue for business and professional events, such as meetings, seminars, workshops, trainings, and conferences. The pavilion has a combination room that can be split into smaller rooms, and a grand ballroom that can seat up to 286 people. The pavilion also has audio-visual equipment and Wi-Fi access
- Concerts and performances:
 The pavilion is a unique location for musical and artistic events, such as concerts, recitals, shows, and festivals. The pavilion has a stage, a sound system, and a lighting system that can enhance the ambiance and quality of the events. The pavilion can also host outdoor events on the lawn or the observation deck
Savannah Rapids Pavilion is a hidden gem in Augusta that offers a range of events and activities for visitors of all ages and interests.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Where is Savannah Rapids Pavilion located?
A: Savannah Rapids Pavilion is located at 3300 Evans to Locks Road, Martinez, GA 30907.
Q: What are the hours of operation of Savannah Rapids Pavilion?
A: Savannah Rapids Pavilion is open daily from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Q: How much does it cost to visit the Savannah Rapids Pavilion?
A: Savannah Rapids Pavilion is free to visit, but there may be fees for renting bikes, kayaks, or pavilions.
Q: How can I book an event or function at Savannah Rapids Pavilion?
A: You can book an event or function at Savannah Rapids Pavilion by calling (706) 868-3349 or emailing Savannahrapids (At) columbiacountyga.gov.
Q: What are some of the attractions and activities at Savannah Rapids Pavilion?
A: Savannah Rapids Pavilion offers a variety of attractions and activities, such as hiking, biking, kayaking, fishing, picnicking, and more. You can also visit the historic Augusta Canal headgates, the lockkeeper’s cottage, and the visitor center.
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