Cheap bus tickets from Augusta to Jacksonville

If Augusta already rings a bell in your mind, it's probably because of The Masters golf tournament that takes place here each spring. But there's still plenty to see and do beyond the perfectly-manicured fairways of Georgia's second-most populous city (and also one of its best vacation destinations).

Nestled along the banks of the Savannah River, Augusta is one of the oldest cities in Georgia, dating back to the 1730s. Quickly establishing itself as a major market town, farmer's markets are still common on the streets today.

The warm year-round climate has long made Augusta a draw for travelers looking to escape the chill further north for the mansions of Summerville, many of which are now open to visitors as museum spaces.

Take a stroll down Broad Street, and you'll discover a fine array of architectural styles, independent stores, and places to grab a bite to eat. Meanwhile, the Augusta Downtown Historic District contains many of the city's landmark buildings, a significant proportion of which predate the American Civil War.

The proximity to the Georgia countryside is another appealing feature of Augusta. When it comes to transport, Atlanta and its Conyers suburb are just over three hours away, thanks to a bus network consisting of 25 routes that crisscross the state and the broader southeastern United States.

Jacksonville, or simply "Jax," is the largest city by area in the continental United States. Located in the northeastern corner of Florida, this sunny city along the St Johns River also boasts 22 miles of beaches along the Atlantic Ocean, coastal cuisine, and many historic neighborhoods to explore.

Natural beauty is king in Jacksonville, and where better to soak in some of the Sunshine State's outdoor wonders than the beach? Try Little Talbot Island for beachcombing or fishing, Big Talbot Island for exploring wetlands and marshes, and Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park for surfing. If you don't have the patience for birdwatching in the wild, the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens will let you get up-close and personal with over 2,400 animals.

To take a break from the sun's rays, head indoors to one of Jacksonville's many eclectic museums. The Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens combines European-inspired gardens with an impressive collection of fine art, while the Museum of Science and History is worth a stop for its planetarium alone. On Saturdays, you wouldn’t want to miss the Riverside Arts Market where artisans and farmers set up stalls along the river, and you can catch live music, food trucks and even free yoga.

Jacksonville is easily accessed by air, train, or bus, and connects Florida to locations throughout the South. Amtrak's Jacksonville train station is located in the northern outskirts of the city, and most bus service in and out of Jacksonville conveniently departs from the JTA Intercity Bus Terminal in the heart of downtown.