28 Best & Fun Things To Do In Augusta (Georgia)

1. Augusta Museum of History

Augusta’s longest-running museum is one of its finest.

The August Museum of History opened in 1937, and its curators throughout the years have done an outstanding job of preserving Augusta’s history and pride.

Researchers across the age and experience spectrum make great use of this museum.

However, you don’t want to be working on a paper or a book to see why this is one of the best Augusta attractions.

Instead, you just need to look at their many exhibitions, such as one detailing Augusta healthcare as well as the Transportation Corridor, which features a restored, vintage gas station along with a trolley car and locomotive.

It’s one of the most interesting places to go if you’re looking for a window into the past.

Going to the Augusta Museum of History is one of the best things to do in Augusta.

It’s open between Thursdays and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Sundays from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Admission is $5 for adults, $4 for seniors, and $3 for children, ages 6 to 18.

Address: 560 Reynolds St, Augusta, GA 30901, United States

2. Riverwalk

Riverwalks like the one in Augusta are great tourist attractions.

Go downtown to see their glorious Riverwalk.

This follows the Savannah River, one of the most attractive bodies of water in the south.

You can come to the Riverwalk for family fun as well as a starlit walk with a loved one.

Your kids are sure to love the playground, and you and your partner can hold hands as you gaze upon the water.

It’s a special place no matter how old you are.

The Riverwalk captures why Augusta is one of the most beautiful places in USA.

Go here at night or during the day, and you’ll be mesmerized either way.

It’s open 24 hours a day, which is perfect if you’re out and about in downtown Augusta late.

Address: 10th St, Augusta, GA 30901, United States

see also: 42 Best & Fun Things To Do In Virginia Beach, VA

3. James Brown Statue

Soul music simply wouldn’t be the same without the influence of a crooner by the name of James Brown.

With legendary songs like “I Feel Good” and “Papa’s Got a Brand New Bag,” the late singer continues to resonate with music fans of all ages.

He also holds a special place in the hearts of Augusta residents.

This hometown hero is honored with his own statue.

The James Brown Statue is a great outdoor attraction located on Broad Street.

It captures the smiling image of Brown, holding a microphone.

Take a photo in front of the James Brown Statue, and dive into learning more about this music legend.

Check out the excellent biopic “Get On Up,” starring the late Chadwick Boseman.

The James Brown Statue is one of the best things to see for music lovers in Augusta.

Address: 830 Broad St, Augusta, GA 30901, United States

4. Woodrow Wilson Boyhood Home

Augusta also contains a childhood home of one of the most notable 20th century American Presidents.

Woodrow Wilson, the nation’s 28th leader, spent a decade of his childhood living in this Georgia city.

While the nation was undergoing the turmoil of the Civil War, young Woodrow was coming of age.

Known then as “Tommy,” Wilson lived in Augusta while his father was preaching at the First Presbyterian Church.

As he grew up in this home, he likely had no idea he would become the leader of the free world, guiding the country amidst the uncertainty of the First World War.

What’s amazing about the Woodrow Wilson Boyhood Home is how it shows greatness can come from such humble beginnings.

Visiting the Woodrow Wilson Boyhood Home is one of the best things to do in Augusta.

It’s open for touring via appointment from Wednesdays to Sundays between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

Admission is $5 for adults, $4 for seniors, and $3 for students, from kindergarten to 12th grade.

Address: 419 7th St, Augusta, GA 30901, United States

5. Meadow Garden

George Walton, one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence, lived at Meadow Garden.

This site is now a National Historic Landmark, drawing scores of tourists eager to see this distinguished home.

It may not be exactly the same as it was when first constructed in 1791.

However, it’s undoubtedly still one of Augusta’s most important landmarks.

Today, a branch of the Daughters of the American Revolutions runs Meadow Garden.

What started as a pretty humble cottage has turned into a quite expansive home.

The additions don’t feel like overkill, because they’re in the service of history.

Meadow Garden has many impressive things to see, and its role in Augusta history cannot be overlooked.

It’s open between Tuesdays and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

General admission is $5, and military and seniors, ages 62 and up, pay $4.

Children, ages 6 to 18, are admitted for just one dollar.

Address: 1320 Independence Dr, Augusta, GA 30901, United States

6. Forest Hills Golf Club

You’d be right for expecting great golf experiences in the city that hosts the Masters.

Forest Hills Golf Club has been named the “Best Public Golf Course” in Augusta, Georgia.

Play just one hole there, and you’ll most likely understand that label.

This club also has a legacy in the golf world.

The great Bobby Jones played here, and it’s a very well-kept course, to say the least.

You don’t need to be the best golfer in the world to play here.

Enjoy the scenery and the calm, allowing every swing of the driver or tap of the putter to put you in a state of focus and clarity.

While playing at Forest Hills Golf Club can be a little pricey, it’s definitely a good use of a splurge.

One of the top things to do in Augusta is to play a round or two at Forest Hills Golf Club.

In golf terms, it’s certainly up to par.

Address: 1500 Comfort Rd, Augusta, GA 30909, United States

7. Riverview Park

Want to play golf, but need to save your money and don’t want to carry around clubs?

Then, you should come to Riverview Park.

Here, you can enjoy a thrilling round of disc golf, as well as many other great activities and amenities.

This park is actually near Augusta, in the town of North Augusta, South Carolina.

Some of the other things you can enjoy include their soccer, baseball, and softball fields, as well as their tennis courts, playgrounds, and green space.

When the outdoors are calling you, this is where to go.

There’s scores of stuff to do at Riverview Park, and the distance from the city is not an issue.

Check the forecast, and come when the weather is sunny and pleasant.

Riverview Park is a great place for entertainment and exercise.

Address: 100 Riverview Park Dr, North Augusta, SC 29841, United States

8. Morris Museum of Art

The Morris Museum of Art is a great downtown Augusta attraction.

Checking it out is what to do in Augusta if you’re remotely interested in art.

Their pieces all coalesce for one remarkably touching cultural experience.

This is the longest-running museum focused on southern art.

There are thousands of pieces in different mediums, with ones as old as the late 1800s and more contemporary pieces.

They also have cool special events, such as film showings and book signings.

The Morris Museum of Art is on the Riverwalk, so you have even more reason to check it out.

Admission is $5 for adults and $3 for youths, ages 13 to 17, and students, military members, and senior citizens.

Address: 1 10th St 2nd Floor, Augusta, GA 30901, United States

9. Augusta Downtown Historic District

There are lots of great modern buildings and attractions in Augusta.

However, the city definitely hasn’t lost touched with its past.

To see what the city was like in the 19th and early 20th centuries, visit the Augusta Downtown Historic District.

As you stroll through downtown Augusta, you can see some really amazing sites.

Broad Street has some great commercial districts, while Greene Sreet is rich with trees.

There are also historic houses, churches, and government buildings.

These come in a variety of stunning architectural styles, such as Romanesque Revival, Greek Revival, and Federal.

The Augusta of today honors the Augusta of yesterday.

If you’re looking for things to do in downtown Augusta, visit the Downtown Historic District.

All of the points of interest and activities make it an excellent time for any traveler.

Address: Augusta, GA 30901, United States

10. Partridge Inn Hotel

A partridge is a bird, perhaps best known for the “12 Days of Christmas” song or as the namesake of “The Patridge Family.”

It’s also part of the name of one of the finest hotels in Georgia.

The Partridge Inn Hotel exemplifies the incredible hospitality of this city.

Book a room at the Patridge Inn Hotel and enjoy at least one enriching evening here.

A big reason the Partridge Inn Hotel is one of the most significant Augusta attractions is because of how historic it is.

This hotel’s building dates back to 1836.

A number of significant figures have stayed here, including Bob Dylan and James Brown.

While it was was under threat of demolition in the 1970s, preservation efforts prevailed.

Since it’s near the Augusta National Golf Course, it plays a very important role in the Masters.

Aside from its beautiful rooms, it also has great ballrooms and halls, as well as a superb restaurant, which serves classic southern food with a modern approach.

The Partridge Inn Hotel is a top example of what a hotel can be.

When you’re looking for romantic things to do, you should set your sights on staying at this hotel, or at least having a meal there.

Check out their booking availability tonight, and try to secure a room as soon as you’re able to.

Address: 2110 Walton Way, Augusta, GA 30904, United States

11. Sconyers Bar-B-Que

Texas isn’t the only southern state that can lay claim to awesome barbecue.

Sconyers Bar-B-Que proves that Georgia is no slouch when it comes to food that inspires you to lick your fingers dry.

If you’ve got a craving for barbecue done with real heart, you need to visit Sconyer’s Bar-B-Que.

Sconyers first opened in the 1950s, and their plates are so good, you’ll immediately understand their longevity.

Items like the pork, turkey, and chicken plates show how much flavor can be extracted from these ingredients.

Their ribs are also outstanding, as is their potato salad.

Eating at Sconyers Bar-B-Que is one of the most fun things to do in Augusta, Georgia.

There’s nothing flashy about their menu or design.

It’s just great food done right.

Sconyers is open between Thursdays and Saturdays from 10 a.m. until 9 p.m.

Address: 2250 Sconyers Way, Augusta, GA 30906, United States

12. SRP Park

Another reason to visit North Augusta, South Carolina is to catch a baseball game at SRP Park.

The Augusta GreenJackets, a Minor League baseball team, plays here.

Situated right across from the Savannah River, SRP Park offers a great time for all its visitors, not just the sports fans.

It’s definitely a lot of fun to witness a GreenJackets game, especially as you enjoy the park’s refreshments.

However, SRP Park is also used for concerts and other events, such as weddings and parties.

Looking for a change of scenery for your next big event?

It might be worth it to have it at SRP Park.

Going to SRP Park is what to do for when you want to have a great time in a very impressive space.

In 2018, it was named the best Minor League ballpark.

You’ll hopefully have a ball yourself when you come to SRP Park.

Address: 187 Railroad Ave, North Augusta, SC 29841, United States

13. The Most Holy Trinity Catholic Church

If you’re a Catholic visiting Augusta this weekend, you might wonder where you can go for a Sunday service.

The Most Holy Trinity Catholic Church is definitely a great place to go.

This house of worship has more than two centuries of history in this city, and it’s one of the biggest religious Augusta attractions.

This church also exemplifies how amazing faith institutions can be on an architectural and emotional level.

You may be very moved when you first enter and see its stained glass windows or its marble design.

This includes a marble rendition of the Last Supper.

The Most Holy Trinity Catholic Church is for anyone who needs to get in touch with themselves and their faith, no matter what their beliefs are.

They hold services every day.

Visit The Most Holy Trinity Catholic Church if you’re curious about free things to do in Augusta, Georgia that can resonate with your soul.

Address: 720 Telfair St, Augusta, GA 30901, United States

14. Sacred Heart Cultural Center

At first glance, the Sacred Heart Cultural Center looks like another Catholic Church.

That’s partially true, as it’s a renovated one.

However, this Downtown Historic District is now an events center, and it’s still as striking as it was when first built.

This building is more than 100 years old, and it sticks out in multiple ways.

For one, there’s its architecture, with multiple spires standing high and proud.

Then, there’s the red design, which should stop you right in your tracks.

You can see some really great events here, including concerts from the Symphony Orchestra Augusta.

Sacred Heart Cultural Center is indeed a sacred part of Augusta, Georgia.

When you’re making a list of downtown Augusta activities, be sure to include this place.

It’s especially fun to come here for holiday events.

Address: 1301 Greene St, Augusta, GA 30901, United States

15. Ray’s Smokehouse BBQ

If you’re planning a barbecue tour of Georgia this weekend, you should also come to Ray’s Smokehouse BBQ.

They serve up barbecue made exactly as it should be: with immense amounts of flavor and passion.

Be sure you eat carefully, as you don’t want any of it to miss your mouth and land on your clothes.

Ray’s is widely acclaimed for their ribs, especially the sauce, which fuses spice and sweetness with total panache.

It might not be what’s typically called “fine dining,” but Ray’s Smokehouse certainly shows that barbecue can be an art.

Their side dishes, like the mac ‘n’ cheese and collard greens, offer their own great flavor.

Ray’s Smokehouse BBQ offers A-grade ribs and more.

When you’re looking around for great barbecue in Augusta, you should come here.

They’re open between Thursdays and Saturdays from 11 a.m. until 6 p.m.

Address: 2817 Deans Bridge Rd, Augusta, GA 30906, United States

16. Phinizy Swamp Nature Park

Great southern swamps aren’t just limited to Florida.

Augusta has Phinizy Swamp Nature Park, which is an astonishing nature preserve.

You can observe the natural life amidst the 1,100 acres here and get plenty of quality exercise.

Phinizy Swamp Nature Park offers lots of fun things to do in Augusta, Georgia.

You can see alligators and turtles at Phinizy Swamp Nature Park, as well as many species of birds, including owls and hummingbirds.

You can also ride bikes and go hiking here.

Looking at photos on their website will show you just how gorgeous Phinizy Swamp Nature Park is, but nothing can beat actually seeing it for yourself.

You can get some great learning done at the environmental education center and the water research campus.

Phinizy Swamp Nature Park is a great place to go if you’re looking for an exciting experience in Augusta this weekend.

The operating hours are every day from 7 a.m. until 6 p.m.

There’s no cost for admission, which makes it great if you’re looking for free things to do.

Address: 1858 Lock and Dam Rd, Augusta, GA 30906, United States

17. Lucy Craft Laney Museum of Black History

If you don’t recognize the name Lucy Craft Laney, you’ll soon learn of her importance in black history.

The Lucy Craft Laney Museum of Black History honors Laney and her works.

Located in her home, you can see why she was such an important part of Augusta, Georgia and how she touched so many people.

Lucy Craft Laney dedicated her life to teaching black children.

She opened the first school for black children in Augusta, Georgia.

Her belief in her students and her cause helped her raise significant funds, which led to her starting the first black kindergarten and nursing home.

Many were inspired by her, and her funeral drew thousands of mourners.

Explore the Lucy Craft Laney Museum of Black History to learn more about Laney and the civil rights movement as a whole.

Tours are available via appointment on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays and 10:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.

Admission is $7 for adults, $5 for seniors, 62 and older, and military members, and $3 for youths, between ages 4 and 17.

Address: 1116 Phillips St, Augusta, GA 30901, United States

18. Magnolia Cemetery

Magnolia Cemetery is a collection of cemeteries, five Jewish and one Greek.

It takes up more than 60 acres and is also around a Masonic Lodge and multiple churches.

You can also see Georgia’s oldest tree, the Crape Myrtle, here.

If you’re interested in military history, you can see the graves of soldiers who fought in the American Revolution and Civil War.

This is also one of the main Augusta attractions if you’re looking for free things to do.

It’s really wonderful to walk around Magnolia Cemetery and pay your respects.

You might not be related to or have any knowledge of the people buried here.

However, you can still honor them with your presence.

Cemeteries let people who are gone live on in our memories, even if we never knew them personally.

Magnolia Cemetery is one of the most moving places to go in Augusta.

It’s open every day, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.

Address: 702 3rd St, Augusta, GA 30901, United States

19. Municipal Golf Course

Do you want to play golf, but not have the funds available for the Forest Hills Golf Club?

You can have a great game at a more reasonable price at the Augusta Municipal Golf Course.

This is a beautiful and historic golf course, one that’ll have you chipper as you’re puttering about, if you’ll pardon the golf puns.

This course first opened in 1928.

However, it’s not showing its age, thanks to the superb renovation efforts it’s undergone.

It’s a public course that’s so good, you’ll feel like you’re at a prestigious private course.

Augusta Municipal Golf Course lets you have a lot of fun without spending a lot of money.

An 18-hole game costs $20 from Mondays to Thursdays and $33 from Fridays to Sundays.

Their hours are daily, between 7:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m.

Address: 2023 Highland Ave, Augusta, GA 30904, United States

20. La Bonbonnière

Just hearing the words “Belgian chocolates” can set off the alarms of any sweet tooth.

When seeing them close-up, like at La Bonbonnière, you may have to remind yourself not to salivate in front of the display case.

This Augusta shop is a chocolate lover’s dream come true, times 10.

Not only can you buy all kinds of great chocolate products here, but you can also see how they’re made.

La Bonbonnière emphasizes homemade, and seeing how they take raw ingredients and turn them into delectable delights is just as good as tasting them.

You’ll need to ask first, so remember to be as polite as possible.

The founder, Bebette Smith, is from Belgian, so she really knows her stuff.

La Bonbonnière’s chocolates also make great gifts, perfect to show anyone who might be skeptical about how great they are.

If you want to see how sweet Augusta attractions are, come to La Bonbonnière.

It’s open between Tuesdays and Thursdays from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and on Saturdays from noon until 5 p.m.

Address: 229 Furys Ferry Rd, Augusta, GA 30907, United States

21. Augusta Mall

A fun shopping destination in Augusta is the Augusta Mall.

This is one of the biggest malls in Georgia, both in terms of its size and its shops.

If shopping is one of your favorite activities, then this mall is bound to be one of your favorite places to visit.

Not only does this mall have some incredible stores, such as Coach and Michael Kors, but it also has great places to get refreshed and made over, with numerous spas and beauty shops.

The design is also great, with very tasteful architecture and great decorative pieces, such as a prominent fountain.

Don’t forget to check out their dining offerings, either.

Coming to the mall is what to do when you want to have fun while being at least a little liberal with your money.

Tourist attractions like the Augusta Mall show why it’s one of the best cities in Georgia today.

The Augusta Mall is open from Mondays to Thursdays between 11 a.m and 7 p.m., on Fridays and Saturdays from 11 a.m. until 8 p.m., and on Sundays from noon to 6 p.m.

Address: 3450 Wrightsboro Rd, Augusta, GA 30909, United States

22. Forks Area Trail System

Too much stimulation can get pretty taxing when you’re on vacation.

That’s why one of the most enjoyable things to do in Georgia is to explore the Forks Area Trail System.

Located near Augusta’s center, this trail is adored among cyclists.

Come with a mountain bike and get ready to explore so much awesome terrain and have fun along the way.

The Fork Trail System is made up of multiple loops.

These can be a little challenging, but it’s a challenge you should embrace.

You can also greatly enjoy seeing the many birds and other animals living amongst the trails.

If you don’t have a bike or just prefer to walk, the trails are also open for hiking.

As you make your way to the top of these trails, you should see why the Forks Area Trail System is one of the top places to visit near Augusta, Georgia.

Even if you ride your bike regularly, there’s hardly any comparison for the special feeling you’ll get when you’re amongst nature on this trail.

It’s also fine if you choose to go without your bike, as the slower pace of hiking can help you to appreciate nature even more.

23. Enterprise Mill

Enterprise Mill sounds and looks like an old mill.

That might sound a little interesting, but you might be a little skeptical about why you’d want to visit it.

Well, you won’t be seeing any huge machinery grinding away at this downtown Augusta attraction.

Read on to hear about the amazing story behind Enterprise Mill.

Although this was once a major flour mill and was used for other manufacturing purposes, it closed down for good in 1983.

The assumption was that it would be knocked down for good.

However, it was eventually turned into a residential, office, and retail complex.

Near Historic Enterprise Mill is the Enterprise Mill Events Center, which hosts events such as weddings and concerts.

Checking out Enterprise Mill is what to do to help you understand how much value Augusta, Georgia gets from thoughtfully examining their past and not letting it go to waste.

This building is incredible just by looking at it.

When you learn more about it, it becomes all the more amazing.

Address: 1450 Greene St Suite 600, Augusta, GA 30901, United States

24. Augusta Canal

The Augusta Canal is what to see for when you want to experience water without too much excitement.

That doesn’t mean this is a boring time.

It’s a lot of fun, and you don’t have to worry about sudden rapids or tides that could put a damper on your good mood or leave you feeling stressed out.

Established in 1845, the Augusta Canal offers boat tours as well as kayaking and fishing.

A five-mile trip down the water can be full of mindfulness and appreciation for being part of the world.

If you prefer dry land, there’s also a great hiking trail.

Flashy entertainment experiences can be expensive without anywhere near the long-term satisfaction of activities like kayaking down the Augusta Canal.

You should be enraptured by this attraction and all it can provide you.

Get away from the rat race that’s still running in your mind, and bring yourself to the Augusta Canal.

Address: 1450 Greene St #400, Augusta, GA 30901, United States

25. French Market Grille

For more than 35 years, French Market Grille has been known as one of the finest places to visit in Georgia for fantastic food.

This is a restaurant that does Cajun food exactly as it should be.

It’s comforting to the max, with lots of flavors and plenty of hospitality that will make you feel welcomed as soon as you step in.

Even people from Louisiana would have to acknowledge that the French Market Grille does Cajun cuisine proud.

Things like their Crawfish Pie should have you taking every bite as slowly as possible, making sure you let every flavor latch onto your taste buds as strongly as possible.

The French Market Grille shows how good food can be when it’s clear the people making it are having fun.

It’s worth visiting the Surrey Center shopping mall just to get a taste of the French Market Grille.

Come with a large group of people, so you can sample each other’s dishes.

The French Market Grille is open from Sundays to Tuesdays and on Fridays and Saturdays.

Lunch is available from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m, and dinner is offered from 5 p.m. to 8:30. p.m.

Address: 425 Highland Ave, Augusta, GA 30909, United States

 

26. Springfield Baptist Church

Springfield Baptist Church can look like a nice but pretty unspectacular church.

However, there’s a whole lot more to this church than its modest appearance.

Its story is like something out of an inspirational film, but this is all real life.

The people who built Springfield Baptist Church had once been enslaved.

That they had undergone so much suffering and created something so beautiful immediately makes this one of the most stunning points of interest in Georgia.

Not only that, but Morehouse College was also established here.

Springfield Baptist Church isn’t just a historic site.

It’s still used for services and is truly phenomenal in every sense of the world.

Come here for a church service, and see how much strength is found in every last bit of this space.

Address: 114 12th St, Augusta, GA 30901, United States

27. Raes Coastal Cafe

If you’ve never been to the Caribbean, eating at Raes Coastal Cafe is a great way to experience it in Georgia.

It’s a little bit hidden, geographically, but it’s so good that anyone who eats there is sure to want to tell all their friends about it.

Nearing its 30th birthday, Raes Coastal Cafe is undoubtedly one of the most beloved Augusta eateries.

Whether you come for lunch and dinner, you’re sure to get a great meal at Raes.

They have seafood made in so many ways.

Try some blackened mahi-mahi, grilled salmon, and scallops.

They’ve also got land offerings, such as jerk chicken, pork, and filet mignon.

Be sure to save room for dessert, such as their Key lime pie.

Raes Coastal Cafe deserves raves for their great dishes and laidback environment.

For a fun meal full of flavor, you should definitely eat here.

Their dinner is offered from Tuesdays to Saturdays, from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., and lunch is available from Tuesdays to Fridays from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Address: 3208 W Wimbledon Dr, Augusta, GA 30909, United States

28. Laurel & Hardy Museum

Near Augusta in Harlem, Georgia, the Laurel & Hardy Museum is a great museum dedicated to two of the finest comedic minds ever known.

If you’ve never seen any Laurel and Hardy comedy, check some out before your visit.

However, even if you’re unfamiliar with the duo at the time of your visit, you should still be able to see why they’re so legendary.

The Laurel & Hardy Museum demonstrates the power of fandom.

Everything at this museum was made possible due to fan donations.

There’s also a theater room where you can watch one of their movies.

It’s an experience that’s as heartwarming as it is side-splitting.

For a fun time in Georgia, come to the Laurel & Hary Museum.

It’s open on Tuesdays and from Thursdays to Saturdays between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. and on Wednesdays from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

There’s no cost for admission, but you’re encouraged to donate.

Address: 135 N Louisville St, Harlem, GA 30814, United States

Start Planning Your Trip To Augusta, GA

Augusta, Georgia is a wonderful city with fun things to do during the day and late at night.

You can also find lots of greatness right outside of the city.

For your next southern vacation, make plans to explore Augusta.

Happy travels.