Best Things to do in Augusta
- Main Street Back Roads
- Jul 22
- 6 min read
Weekend Getaway from Atlanta filled with Art, History, and Unique Things to Do
While most people around the world know Augusta for the Masters, this "Garden City" along the Savannah River is so much more than a golf tournament! As the state's second-oldest city, Augusta is rich with history and culture.
This is my third time visiting, and I'm still uncovering hidden gems to add to my list.
I took myself on a solo trip this time, but my 24-hour itinerary also makes for a perfect couple's getaway too -- especially if you stay at the historic Partdridge Inn with its pool, verandas, restaurant, and rooftop bar.
If you have more than 24 hours in Augusta, make sure to check out my Ultimate Guide to Augusta's Hidden Gems for even more things to do!
*Disclosure: This content was created in partnership with Visit Augusta -- as always, all opinions are my own. Thank you for supporting this page!
DAY ONE
Stop 1: Lunch at SolFood Kitchen
471 Highland Ave, Augusta, GA
Arrive in Augusta by noon and head straight to lunch at SolFood Kitchen. I've visited Augusta several times, and each time I go, someone has recommended that I eat here, so I was excited to try it for myself. This isn't your typical Southern food -- this is a wellness-focused cafe with an eclectic, health-conscious menu. It's the perfect way to begin a day of exploring. I had the Mediterranean bowl, which I loved, but the plantain tacos and banh mi are also crowd favorites.
TIP: They press their juices in-house, and they sell out quickly, so grab one if they're available!
P.S. If you're in the mood for BBQ, I'd be remiss if I didn't also give a shout-out to the PBR-b-q sandwich at Knuckle Sandwiches!
SolFood is located in the Surrey Center, a 3-level outdoor shopping plaza
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Stop 2: Immerse Yourself in Culture
Morris Museum of Art: 1 10th St, (2nd floor) OR the Augusta History Museum: 560 Reynolds St
It's time to choose your own adventure: art or history?
The Morris Museum of Art showcases an impressive collection of Southern art, while the Augusta History Museum dives into the city's past -- everything from a 1900s steam train you can board to an impressive exhibit on Augusta native James Brown.
These two museums are close to each other, so you can easily visit both if time allows.
Top: The Morris Museum of Art is the oldest in the country devoted to the art and artists of the American South. Bottom: The Augusta History Museum offers something for everyone, including my favorite, the Transportation Corridor and James Brown exhibit.
Stop 3 : Riverwalk + 5th Street Bridge
After your museum visit, take a stroll along the Riverwalk and cross the pedestrian-only 5th Street bridge into South Carolina. On the bridge, you'll find wi-fi, charging stations, benches, and lots of public art -- including kid-friendly music elements, spin wheels, and mazes. Crossing this bridge also gives you a great view of the marina, boats, and downtown Augusta.
TIP: This is a popular spot to watch the sunset.
Stop 4: Downtown Shopping
One of my favorite activities is wandering in and out of local shops and galleries. On this trip, I was struck by the entrepreneurial spirit of the business owners I encountered who are breathing new life into the downtown district through their creative spaces and community involvement -- from Westobou's Curated Pallette events to Grantski Records tie-die festival and listening parties.
All of these spots are on Broad Street and within walking distance of each other. Keep your eyes open for murals -- the downtown is full of them, and they make an excellent backdrop for photos.
Grantski Records | 1151 Broad St
Westobou Gallery | 1129 Broad St
Candl Fine Art | 1128 Broad St
Augusta Candle Company | 1124 Broad St
Freshwater Curated Goods | 1022 Broad St (reopening August 2025)
Art on Broad 1016 Broad St
The Book Tavern | 978 Broad St
Top: Augusta Candle, Art on Broad, and Grantski Records / Bottom: Westobou, Candl Fine Art, and The Book Tavern
End with a visit to Augusta & Co (1010 Broad St), where you will find the cutest merch, local products, visitor information, and free beverage tastings!
Stop 5: Savannah River Brewing
813 5th St, Augusta, GA
A local favorite, Savannah River Brewing is a 21,000 square-foot brewery, taproom, kitchen, and beer garden. They host regular events as well -- quiz night is very popular!
Play games, try some Korean fried chicken, and enjoy a cold fresh brew at Savannah River Brewing.
Stop 6: Check Into The Partridge Inn
2110 Walton Wy, Augusta, GA
Time to check into your home for the night. The Partridge Inn is a historic and one-of-a-kind hotel in Augusta. Opt for a balcony room for the best views and enjoy amenities like a fitness area, pool, and rooftop bar.
My absolute favorite spot here is the second floor, which has a bar and restaurant, but the real draw is the large veranda filled with couches, plants, and American flags waving in the breeze. It's easy to spend hours here.
TIP: Be on the lookout for historic photographs scattered throughout the hotel -- they show what the inn looked like in its early days.
Stop 7: Dinner at Abel Brown
Abel Brown: Surrey Center, 491 Highland Ave
Abel Brown is a crown jewel in the Augusta dining scene, and I was thrilled to dine here on my visit. I started my meal with a beet salad, treated myself to the fluke crudo (I wanted to drink the broth it came with; it was so good), and finished with the crab-stuffed trout. Every course was thoughtful, well-presented, and absolutely delicious. And the service? Impeccable.
It's popular for a reason -- make a reservation if you plan to dine here.
Stop 8: After Dinner Drinks
Fox's Lair: 410 4th St, Augusta, OR Six South Rooftop Bar: 2110 Walton Wy
End your night at Fox's Lair, "the coolest place you'll never find" -- a cozy bar hidden beneath Old Towne Inn, complete with live music and a killer atmosphere. If you're lucky, your visit might coincide with the Southeastern Songwriter Series (3rd Wednesday of every month). A truly unforgettable experience.
Location: The address is 349 Telfair St, but you'll find the lounge entrance and a parking lot in back at 410 4th
Or, head back to your hotel and enjoy a drink at Six South, the rooftop bar with panoramic views of Augusta.
The Fox's Lair may be hard to find, but it's worth it.
DAY TWO
Stop 1: Coffee at Relic
1504 Monte Sano Ave, Augusta, GA
Relic Coffee Company is a must for anyone serious about their coffee. They serve Ecuadorian beans and make everything in-house -- from breads and syrups to their alternative milks. I got the Cayambe, a combination of espresso, dulce de leche syrup, and housemade almond milk. I wish I had tried one of their delicious-sounding sandwiches or egg cazuelas served with fresh sourdough. It's definitely on my list to try the next time I'm in town!
Stop 2: Canal Boat Tour Adventure
1450 Green Street, Augusta, GA
No trip to Augusta is complete without a visit to the Augusta Canal National Heritage Area! This is the South's only remaining industrial canal still in use and a must-visit especially for history buffs.
The guided Augusta Canal Boat Tour is one-of-a-kind -- narrated by enthusiastic guides who share stories about Augusta's early days. During the summer months, tours are offered at 10AM -- dress cool, wear sunscreen, and make sure to book your tickets ($12-14) in advance. The Discovery Center museum admission is included with your boat tour ticket.
The Augusta Canal Boat Tour
Stop 3: Sacred Heart Cultural Center
1301 Greene St, Augusta, GA
After your canal adventure, head to the nearby Sacred Heart Cultural Center. Once a church, this stunning architectural landmark now hosts cultural events and exhibits. The stained glass windows alone are worth a visit.
TIP: Ask about the stained glass scavenger hunt!
Stop 4: Lunch at Jackie M's and Son Cafe
3308 Milledgeville Rd, Augusta, GA
I found out about this local gem from several Augusta natives, and let me tell you, I'm happy the locals don't gatekeep; this place is great! I ordered the classic Philly cheesesteak with a side of their famous "soul rolls" (deep-fried egg rolls with fillings like steak and jerk chicken). This is primarily a grab-and-go place, but there are a couple of outdoor picnic tables. If you're in a rush, call in your order -- it's worth the wait.
Jackie M's and Son Cafe is worth the stop.
Bonus Stop
If you have time before heading home (and can't resist a bargain), stop by Wayfair's only outlet in Georgia (242 Robert C Daniel Pkwy, Augusta, GA). New inventory arrives twice a week, and the bathroom vanities and couches are the best deals here.
Make sure to save this 24-hour Augusta itinerary for the next time you need a quick and easy getaway from Atlanta. You'll find lots more information and itinerary suggestions on the Visit Augusta website, and don't forget to check out my Ultimate Guide to Augusta's Hidden Gems.
I hope you found this helpful!
xoKerry
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