Introduction
If you’re considering a getaway that blends Southern charm, outdoor adventure, and a little cultural flair, then my recent weekend in Augusta, Georgia, might give you exactly the inspiration you need. I arrived with a loose plan and left with memories of riverside strolls, art‑filled afternoons, and hidden gems around every corner. Augusta may be famous for one of golf’s crown jewels, but I discovered it has so much more than tee times. Here are the 12 best & fun things to do in Augusta, GA — the ones I loved, and the ones I think you will too.
12 Best & Fun Things To Do In Augusta, GA (2025)
1. Stroll along the Augusta Riverwalk
From my first evening in town, walking the Riverwalk was a highlight. This brick‑ and board‑lined scenic path hugs the banks of the Savannah River in downtown Augusta between 6th and 10th Streets, offering riverside views, sculptures, gardens, and even a children’s splash fountain.
Tip: Go at sunset for golden light on the water, and stop at the amphitheater for photos or a live event if timing allows.
2. Explore the Augusta Canal National Heritage Area
I loved how this historic waterway seamlessly blends nature, history, and activity. Once built to power textile mills, today you’ll find multi‑use trails, paddling, and boat tours of old mills.
Tip: Rent a bike or paddle a bit to see the canal from a different perspective. Early morning is quiet and peaceful.
See Also: 22 Best & Fun Things To Do In Key Largo, FL
3. Visit the Morris Museum of Art
As someone who loves art, this little gem impressed me. The museum is dedicated to Southern art and artists, housed right along the riverfront.
Tip: It’s compact, so a quick hour or so will do. The view from the museum toward the river is worth lingering.
4. Get wild at Phinizy Swamp Nature Park
Nature lovers, this one’s for you. Just a short drive from downtown, the park offers boardwalks, wetlands, birds, turtles—and if you’re lucky—an alligator or two.
Tip: Bring binoculars for birdwatching, wear comfortable shoes for the trails, and go mid‑morning when wildlife is active.
5. Tour the Augusta Museum of History
I appreciated spending time here to dig into the city’s backstory—from early settlement through the industrial era and into modern times.
Tip: Don’t miss the gallery on golf/historic Augusta if you’re curious about why Augusta is so famous in the golf world (spoiler: it’s not just one tournament).
6. Check out the Saturday morning Augusta Market at the River
A delightful weekend treat: local produce, artisan goods, live music, food trucks, and a lively atmosphere. I found myself lingering far longer than expected.
Tip: Arrive early for the best selection, bring a tote for goodies, and plan for brunch nearby.
7. Snap a photo with the bronze statue of James Brown
A fun and quick stop. The statue honors Augusta’s own “Godfather of Soul” and is both iconic and a fan‑favorite photo op.
Tip: Use the statue photo as a marker for exploring the nearby Broad Street shops and galleries.
8. Discover historic mills & architecture at Sibley Mill
While walking near the canal area, I passed Sibley Mill and was struck by its imposing architecture and historical significance.
Tip: Use this as a backdrop for a photo‑walk around the canal then grab a coffee nearby and soak in the industrial‑era charm.
9. Visit the elegant The Partridge Inn Augusta
For a taste of historic luxury in Augusta, The Partridge Inn caught my eye. Built originally in the early 20th century, it exudes old‑school Southern elegance.
Tip: Even if you’re not staying there, consider stopping by for afternoon tea or a rooftop view—it adds a classy touch to your Augusta experience.
10. Enjoy the local food & drink scene downtown
One of my favorite parts of the trip was venturing into downtown eateries and rooftop bars. I found everything from upscale tapas to casual Southern comfort food.
Tip: Make a dinner reservation for one night—especially on Broad Street—and leave room for dessert! There’s a sweet‑treat trail to explore.
11. Get active: kayaking, biking or trail walks
Whether it was paddling peaceful canal waters or biking the historic towpath, Augusta turned out to be a surprisingly active town.
Tip: If you have more than a day, plan for a morning outdoor session—before lunch is a perfect time when it’s still cool.
12. Chill & take in the city’s vibe
After the activity‑packed days, I found the best moments were simply sitting on a bench, listening to live music at an outdoor venue, or watching the riverside lights. The vibe of the city felt relaxed but with a subtle energy.
Tip: If you don’t have the time to cram every attraction in, pick one big thing (like the canal or museum) and one relaxed thing (like dining or the riverwalk) and enjoy them without rushing.
Final Thoughts
My stay in Augusta proved to be far richer and more varied than I anticipated. From the natural beauty of boardwalks and wetlands to the historical depth of canals and mills, the art and food scenes, and the unhurried charm of the downtown riverfront—there’s something for everyone.
The key takeaway: give yourself at least a full weekend. One day feels too tight for all the experiences, but in two or three days you can mix outdoor adventure, historic exploration, and relaxing moments without feeling rushed.
Here are my final travel tips:
- Bring comfortable walking shoes (you’ll likely cover more ground than you think).
- Pack for variable weather—mornings may be cool, afternoons might be warm.
- Strike a balance between structured “must‑dos” and leaving room for serendipity (the best cafés I found were the ones I stumbled upon).
- If visiting during an event or festival, book accommodations early—the town fills up.
- And finally: take a moment just to sit by the river and watch the water—it’s a simple but profound way to feel the rhythm of Augusta.