Located on the banks of the Savannah River, Augusta, Georgia, is best known for hosting The Masters Golf Tournament, but the city offers far more than just world-class golf. With a rich history, beautiful outdoor spaces, and a thriving arts scene, Augusta has something for everyone. Here’s a list of the top 10 things to do in Augusta, Georgia that will make your visit unforgettable.

Things to Do in Augusta

1. Walk Along the Augusta Riverwalk

One of Augusta’s most scenic attractions, the Augusta Riverwalk runs along the Savannah River and offers beautiful waterfront views, gardens, and entertainment venues.

Highlights:

• Stroll along the paved paths with scenic river views.
• Enjoy live music and events at the Jessye Norman Amphitheater.
• Visit the Augusta Market on Saturdays for local crafts and food.

Pro Tip: Visit in the evening to watch the sunset over the Savannah River.

2. Visit the Augusta National Golf Club (During Masters Week!)

Golf lovers dream of visiting Augusta National Golf Club, home to the legendary Masters Tournament. If you’re in town during Masters Week (April), this is an absolute must-see.

Highlights:

• Walk the course where legends like Tiger Woods and Jack Nicklaus have played.
• Visit Amen Corner, the most famous stretch of holes in golf.
• Shop for exclusive Masters merchandise.

Pro Tip: If you can’t get tickets to the tournament, you can still soak in the Masters experience by visiting local golf shops and enjoying the festive atmosphere in Augusta.

3. Explore the Augusta Canal National Heritage Area

A paradise for outdoor lovers, the Augusta Canal offers hiking, biking, and boat tours along one of the oldest industrial canals in the U.S.

Highlights:

• Take a guided boat tour to learn about Augusta’s history.
• Hike or bike along the Towpath Trail.
• Spot local wildlife like herons and turtles.

Pro Tip: Rent a kayak or canoe to paddle along the canal for a more immersive experience.

4. Step Back in Time at the Augusta Museum of History

If you want to dive into Augusta’s rich past, the Augusta Museum of History is the place to go.

Highlights:

• Learn about Augusta’s role in the Civil War and Civil Rights Movement.
• Check out the James Brown exhibit, celebrating the “Godfather of Soul”.
• See vintage cars and historic artifacts from the early 1900s.

Pro Tip: Don’t miss the trolley tour offered by the museum—it’s a fun way to explore historic Augusta.

5. Pay Tribute to James Brown at the James Brown Statue

The City is the hometown of James Brown, the legendary “Godfather of Soul”. You can visit his bronze statue downtown and explore his influence on music.

Highlights:

• Take a picture with the statue on Broad Street.
• Learn about James Brown’s impact on music and culture.
• Visit The Augusta Museum of History for more James Brown memorabilia.

Pro Tip: Time your visit with the James Brown Birthday Bash (May) or the James Brown Festival (December).

6. Discover Art and Culture at the Morris Museum of Art

The Morris Museum of Art is the oldest museum in the U.S. dedicated to Southern art and a must-visit for art lovers.

Highlights:

• Explore over 5,000 works of Southern art.
• See paintings, sculptures, and folk art from the 19th and 20th centuries.
• Attend free museum events on the first Saturday of each month.

Pro Tip: Visit during First Friday in Downtown Augusta when local artists and musicians fill the streets.

7. Take a Haunted Ghost Tour

The City has a spooky side, with ghost stories dating back to the 1700s. A guided ghost tour will take you through the city’s most haunted locations.

Highlights:

• Walk through historic cemeteries and haunted mansions.
• Hear eerie stories of Civil War ghosts and restless spirits.
• Visit the famous Windsor Manor, one of Augusta’s most haunted spots.

Pro Tip: Book a tour around Halloween for an extra spine-chilling experience!

8. Enjoy Craft Beer at Savannah River Brewing Co.

 

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For beer lovers, Savannah River Brewing Co. is a top spot to relax and try some locally brewed beers.

Highlights:

• Taste unique craft beers like the Blanched Blonde Ale and Dynamite Brown Ale.
• Enjoy live music and trivia nights at the brewery.
• Take a brewery tour to see how the beer is made.

Pro Tip: Visit during happy hour for the best deals on pints.

9. Hike and Picnic at Phinizy Swamp Nature Park

Nature lovers will appreciate Phinizy Swamp Nature Park, a 1,100-acre wetland home to diverse wildlife.

Highlights:

• Walk along the boardwalks through beautiful swamp scenery.
• Spot wildlife like alligators, turtles, and bald eagles.
• Have a picnic while enjoying the peaceful sounds of nature.

Pro Tip: Wear bug spray and bring binoculars for birdwatching!

10. Shop and Dine in Historic Downtown Augusta

Downtown Augusta is filled with unique shops, restaurants, and live music venues.

Highlights:

• Shop for antiques, books, and souvenirs at local boutiques.
• Try Southern favorites like fried green tomatoes and shrimp & grits.
• Enjoy live music at The Soul Bar or The Miller Theater.

Pro Tip: Check out Augusta’s Market on Saturdays for fresh produce and handmade goods.

Frequently Asked Questions About Things to Do in Augusta

1. What Are the Must-Visit Attractions in the City?

The City is home to historic landmarks, beautiful parks, and cultural attractions. Some must-visit places include:

• Augusta Riverwalk – A scenic waterfront area with parks and live entertainment.
• Augusta National Golf Club – Famous for The Masters Tournament (April).
• Augusta Canal National Heritage Area – Great for boat tours, hiking, and biking.
• Phinizy Swamp Nature Park – A wetland reserve with wildlife and walking trails.
• Augusta Museum of History – Learn about local history, including the James Brown exhibit.
• Morris Museum of Art – The oldest museum dedicated to Southern art.
• Sacred Heart Cultural Center – A stunning historic former church with beautiful architecture.

2. What Are the Best Outdoor Activities in Augusta?

Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty of activities to enjoy:

• Hiking and biking at Augusta Canal Trail or Phinizy Swamp.
• Kayaking or paddleboarding on the Savannah River.
• Fishing and boating at Clarks Hill Lake (Thurmond Lake).
• Walking along the Riverwalk and enjoying live music at Jessye Norman Amphitheater.
• Golfing at local courses, including Augusta Municipal Golf Course.

3. What Is the Best Time to Visit Augusta?

The best time to visit Augusta depends on your interests:

• Spring (March–May) – Ideal for sightseeing and attending The Masters.
• Summer (June–August) – Great for outdoor activities, but expect warm temperatures.
• Fall (September–November) – Pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
• Winter (December–February) – Mild weather, perfect for exploring museums and history.

4. Where Can I Experience Augusta’s Nightlife?

The City has a lively nightlife scene with bars, live music venues, and breweries.

Best Places for Nightlife:

• The Soul Bar – A tribute to James Brown with great music.
• Sky City – A popular live music venue.
• Savannah River Brewing Co. – A top local brewery.
• The Fox’s Lair – A cozy bar with live performances.
• The Miller Theater – A historic theater with concerts and shows.

5. What Are the Best Places to Eat in the City?

Augusta offers a mix of Southern comfort food, seafood, and international cuisine.

Best Restaurants in Augusta:

• The Bee’s Knees – A tapas-style restaurant with unique flavors.
• Frog Hollow Tavern – Known for farm-to-table Southern cuisine.
• Hildebrandt’s – A historic deli with great sandwiches.
• Sole Augusta – A fantastic seafood and sushi spot.
• Whiskey Bar Kitchen – A mix of Southern and Japanese flavors.

Best Local Dishes to Try:

• Shrimp & grits
• Fried green tomatoes
• Southern BBQ
• Pimento cheese

6. What Are Some Free Things to Do in the City?

There are plenty of free activities, including:

• Walking along the Augusta Riverwalk.
• Exploring Phinizy Swamp Nature Park.
• Visiting the James Brown Statue downtown.
• Enjoying public art and murals in Downtown Augusta.
• Checking out free museum days at Morris Museum of Art.

7. Where Can I Go Shopping?

Augusta has shopping malls, boutiques, and local markets.

Best Shopping Spots:

• Surrey Center – A mix of boutiques, gift shops, and upscale stores.
• Augusta Mall – The city’s largest shopping mall.
• Antique Shops in Downtown Augusta – Great for vintage and unique finds.
• Augusta Market (Saturdays) – Farmers market with crafts, food, and local goods.

8. What Are the Best Day Trips from Augusta?

If you have extra time, consider taking a day trip to these nearby destinations:

• Aiken, SC (30 minutes) – A charming horse town with historic homes and gardens.
• Columbia, SC (1 hour) – South Carolina’s capital with museums and riverfront parks.
• Lake Thurmond (45 minutes) – A great spot for boating, fishing, and camping.
• Athens, GA (1.5 hours) – A vibrant college town with music and great food.
• Savannah, GA (2.5 hours) – A historic city with cobblestone streets and waterfront views.

9. Is the City Safe for Tourists?

Augusta is generally a safe city, but here are some tips:

• Stick to well-lit areas at night, especially in downtown areas.
• Use ride-sharing services (Uber, Lyft) if traveling late at night.
• Lock your car doors and keep valuables out of sight.
• Stay aware of your surroundings, especially at large events.

10. What Cultural and Historic Sites Should I Visit?

Augusta has a rich history and vibrant arts scene. Some must-see spots include:

• Boyhood Home of Woodrow Wilson – Learn about the former U.S. President.
• Sacred Heart Cultural Center – A historic former Catholic church.
• The Lucy Craft Laney Museum of Black History – A museum dedicated to African American history in Augusta.
• Historic Downtown Augusta – Home to old buildings, theaters, and murals.

Final Thoughts

Augusta is much more than just a golf destination—it’s a city filled with history, culture, outdoor adventures, and great food. If  you’re strolling along the Riverwalk, exploring the Augusta Canal, or enjoying a local craft beer, there’s something for everyone in this charming Georgia city.