The list of things to do in Augusta, Georgia, is endless, but we’ve narrowed it down to a few suggestions for a short visit that strikes the perfect balance between adventure and leisure. Fabulous year-round weather sets the scene for countless outdoor activities, foodie crawls through the colorful downtown, and extraordinary cultural opportunities you won’t find anywhere else, like the Augusta National Black Caddies and James Brown experiences. Read on to learn more about Augusta, Georgia, and why it should be at the top of your list for your next trip to the Peach State.
This story was created in partnership with DESTINATION Augusta.
Where is Augusta, Georgia?
Augusta, Georgia, is located on the Georgia–South Carolina border, three hours east of Atlanta along Interstate 20. It’s also a short detour from Interstate 95—the longest highway on the East Coast—making Augusta a popular stop for motorists traveling to the coast from further inland.
Three of the Best Things to Do in Augusta
Discover the Hidden History of Golf in Augusta
The stories of the Augusta National Black Caddies are some of the most important in Black history and in sport.
When the Masters began in 1934, players (who were all White until 1990) were required to use one of the members of the Augusta National Caddie Corps (who were all Black). These men were local, knew the greens and environment, and played a crucial role in player performance–and thus the outcome of the games. The caddying rules were desegregated in the 80s, and the stories of the Black Caddies slowly faded.
Thanks to a resurgence of interest, their testimonies were preserved, cementing the Black Caddies as legends in the sport of golf. Visitors to Augusta can learn more about how these men reclaimed discriminatory practices to build positions of esteem at the Augusta Black Caddies experience at the Lucy Craft Laney Museum of Black History. You might even get the chance to meet a living legend in person and hear their first-hand accounts!
Get Outside
Pleasant weather all year long means outdoor activities are always some of the best things to do in Augusta.
Stroll the boardwalks at Phinizy Swamp Nature Park, keeping your eyes peeled for native creatures like gators and river otters. Paddle the Savannah River on a kayak or paddleboard or learn more about the history of the river on a traditional canal boat at the Augusta Canal Heritage Area. You can also rent a motorboat or hop on a jet ski on the Savannah River.
If you’re visiting during baseball season, catch a Green Jackets game for an all-American evening of wholesome fun. Also, did you know Augusta is a world-renowned destination for disc golf? Play a round at the PDGA International Disc Golf Center or one of several other courses in the area.
And coming in later in 2025…the Urban Outdoor Adventure Center for thrill seekers and the Patch, a new public course less than 5 miles from Augusta National.
Explore Downtown
Downtown Augusta’s colorful aesthetic reflects the friendly locals and unique offerings that keep the community buzzing.
To start, cycle or walk the Augusta Riverwalk, a multi-level brick path along the Savannah River. Then, take an audio tour with James Brown, a hometown legend. Explore downtown through the lens of the Godfather of Soul on this self-guided experience. You’ll notice downtown Augusta is accented with eye-catching murals and public art installations. Be prepared to leave with a camera roll full of eclectic shots.
While in town, sip and sample your way through dozens of restaurants, coffee shops, a brewery, and a distillery. Among a variety of dining options, you’ll find plenty of southern regional ingredients and cuisine like hush puppies, fried chicken and catfish, oysters, and black-eyed peas. There’s one particular Augusta favorite that attracts in-the-know foodies: pimiento cheese.
With a huge variety of things to do in Augusta, Georgia, it’s a no-brainer stop on your next Georgia road trip. It’s an easy detour from I-95 and just a few hours from both Atlanta and Myrtle Beach. Stay a night or two to give yourself plenty of time to soak in the colorful southern charm of the Feel Good City.
