Below you’ll find a list of over 20 things to do in Augusta, Georgia featuring attractions, tours, museums, rooftop bars, markets and more that locals love just as much as visitors!
Beyond its famed association with golf’s prestigious Masters Tournament, Augusta offers a captivating blend of history, culture, and outdoor adventures. Whether you’re a history buff, an art enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply seeking a taste of Southern charm, Augusta has something to surprise and delight you.
What You’ll Find In This Article
- Augusta Riverwalk
- Augusta Market
- Topgolf
- Phinizy Swamp Nature Park
- The Masters
- The Greeneway
- Augusta GreenJackets
- Augusta Museum of History
- Strawberry Picking
- Kayak On The River
- Morris Museum Of Art
- Shop In North Augusta
- Surrey Center
- Boyhood Home Of President Woodrow Wilson
- Arts In The Heart Of Augusta
- Play A Round Of Golf
- Day Trip To Columbia
- Visit A Rooftop Bar
- Augusta Canal Boat Tour
- Living History Museum
- Pexcho’s American Dime Museum
Augusta Riverwalk
Stretching from 6th to 10th Streets along the Savannah River, the Augusta Riverwalk is the heart and soul of Augusta. More than just a scenic walkway, it’s a hub for activities and a beloved local hangout.
Throughout the year, the Riverwalk plays host to various events, concerts, and festivals. From the weekly Saturday market (March-November) to the live music at the Jessye Norman Amphitheater in the spring and summer, there is no shortage of fun at the Riverwalk.
There’s also plenty for kids to do at the Riverwalk, too. Not only is there space to get energy out, but there are playgrounds, fountains, and picnic areas to enjoy. And yes, leashed dogs are allowed!
Looking for a restaurant near the Riverwalk? Check out The Boll Weevil for a great lunch in Augusta. Noble Jones is also close by and is one of Augusta’s best restaurants. It’s open for dinner only.
If you haven’t booked a hotel yet, check out our guide to the best hotels in Augusta! It shares our top picks for where to stay and why.
The Augusta Market at the River
If you’re looking for something fun to do in Augusta on Saturday mornings, head to The Augusta Market at the River.
Known as the Saturday Market, it’s held weekly from March to November.
Whether you are there for your weekly produce, a hot cup of coffee, live music, some solid people-watching or to support local artisans, the Market has it all.
You’ll find the Market at the 8th Street entrance to the Riverwalk (8th and Reynolds.)
2024 dates: March 16 – November 26
Topgolf
Whether you’re a seasoned golfer looking to hone your swing or simply seeking a fun night out with friends and family, Topgolf is a sure way to have fun in Augusta.
You’ll find over 30 climate-controlled hitting bays with HDTVs, a 9-hole mini golf course and even a bar and restaurant.
They have complimentary clubs available or you bring your own.
Phinizy Swamp Nature Park
Phinizy Swamp Nature Park is a 1,100-acre nature park in Augusta, Georgia. It contains wetlands and woodlands and has a campus for water research and environmental education, which includes a visitor center.
The nature park is a popular destination for locals and visitors alike, offering a variety of opportunities to connect with nature and learn about the local ecosystem.
There’s even a children’s playspace, as well as ample opportunity to spot local wildlife. Keep an eye out for alligators!
The Masters
Witness the excitement of the Masters Tournament, one of the most prestigious golf tournaments globally, held annually at Augusta National in April.
Unfortunately, obtaining tickets to the Masters is notoriously difficult due to. Not only is there limited availability, but there is high demand.
There’s an official ticket lottery held annually. You can enter the 2025 lottery from June 1 to June 20.
North Augusta Greeneway Trail
Known as “The Greeneway” to locals, this 7+ mile paved trail in North Augusta offers a scenic escape for walkers, runners, and cyclists.
It traces a former railroad line, offering a unique blend of history and outdoor recreation, and pays homage to former Mayor Thomas W. Greene.
It’s open daily, dawn to dusk. There are several access points and places to park, including Riverview Park.
Augusta Greenjackets Minor League Baseball
Just across the Savannah River, in charming North Augusta, lies a ballpark brimming with minor-league excitement.
The Augusta GreenJackets, single-A affiliate of the Atlanta Braves, offer a fun-filled experience for baseball fans of all ages.
Their schedule runs April through September, with opening day on August 5 against the Columbia Fireflies.
Augusta Museum of History
The Augusta Museum of History preserves and shares the rich history of Augusta and the Central Savannah River region. There are several signature exhibits and a variety of changing exhibitions.
The permanent exhibit “Augusta’s Story” explores the region’s rich history, from its earliest inhabitants to its modern-day development, spanning over 12,000 years. It covers everything from Native Americans to the Federal Era, Civil Way, Reconstruction and more.
There’s also a ‘Sport Of Golf’ exhibit that highlights how the game has evolved over centuries. And an exhibit about James Brown, who grew up in Augusta during the Great Depression and World War II.
strawberry picking
Gurosik’s is a great U-pick berry patch less than 30 minutes from Augusta. It’s family-owned and operated, and is cash or check only! They have a giant strawberry field and a farm market.
There’s even a pond full of hungry catfish! You can buy a bag of food to feed them– and man, are they hungry. And smelly!!
Gurosik’s is open Tuesday through Saturday during the season (April to early-July) and offers U-pick and we-pick strawberries.
Kayaking On The Savannah River
A local favorite thing to do is to go kayaking in Augusta. It’s a fun outdoor activity and a unique way to explore the area.
The Augusta Canal is a great choice for kayakers of all skill levels. The calm waters and scenic surroundings, with glimpses of historic mills and wildlife, make for a peaceful and enjoyable paddle.
Lake Olmstead is a scenic lake at the western end of the Canal.
Guided tours are also available, offering historical insights alongside the kayaking experience.
Experienced kayakers can navigate the Savannah River, offering a more challenging and adventurous experience
Kayak Rental Options In Augusta
- Two Dudes And a Boat Kayak Rentals: offers various kayak models, including single and tandem kayaks, and guided tours.
- Savannah Rapids Kayak Rental: Provides kayak rentals, shuttle services, and guided tours, with convenient locations near the Augusta Canal and Savannah River.
Morris Museum of Art
The Morris Museum of Art is the oldest museum in the nation dedicated solely to the art and artists of the American South. It offers a unique perspective on the region’s vibrant creative spirit.
You can explore an impressive collection of American art, spanning centuries and diverse styles. And it’s housed in a stunning historic building.
Current exhibitions include a study on self-portraits (through June 30) and the artwork of Joseph H. Sulkowski (through April 28.)
Shop Locally In North Augusta
North Augusta, SC is just over the river from downtown Augusta and offers small-town charm and tons of local shops to browse.
If you are looking for coffee in North Augusta, stop by Cavalier’s. And then head a few doors down to the local toy shop Orange Otter. It’s a darling store with fun finds for all ages. There’s always something new and the shop is so colorful and happy!
High Cotton Downtown is located in the same shopping center and is a great stop for home goods, accessories and gifts. Not far from here you’ll find Shoppe 3130.
A few of the other things to do on this list are also located in North Augusta, like the Living History Park and the GreenJackets stadium.
Surrey Center
Surrey Center is an outdoor shopping center in Augusta. You’ll find three levels (!) with tons of shops, salons and restaurants.
There are several boutiques, like Fab’rik, Shoes at Surrey and Capsule. There’s even a Lilly Pulitzer Signature Story (Palm Village) and a bridal boutique.
Finch and Fifth is a great destination for weekend brunch in Augusta. And The SolFood Kitchen is an excellent stop if you want something a bit healthier. Try their Bibimbap grain bowl!
Boyhood Home Of President Woodrow Wilson
Did you know that President Woodrow Wilson lived in Augusta as a young child? Today, the house is a National Historic Landmark in Augusta’s Historic District.
Tours are available Wednesday – Saturday on the hour from 10am to 4pm. Reservations are encouraged. The tour is $10 for adults, $ for military and students K-12 are $5.
Arts In The Heart Of Augusta
Arts in the Heart of Augusta is an annual festival held downtown in September. There’s live music, regional artists, food tents and beer tents.
2023’s event was the biggest yet, spanning 4 blocks on Broad Street. There were five stages of non-stop entertainment, including a jazz stage with jazz, blues and roots performances.
Over 15 food booths are all in the Global Food Village at the festival. Local cultural groups run the food booths and offer fresh cuisine from around the world.
Arts In The Heart of Augusta is produced each year by the Greater Augusta Arts Council. It’s a rain or shine event.
Play A Round Of Golf
While you can’t play a round at the private Augusta National course, several golf courses in the area are open to the public:
- Forest Hills: Semi-Private
- Augusta Municipal (The Patch)
- Pointe South Golf Club: Semi-Private
- The River Golf Club (North Augusta): Semi-Private
Day Trip To Columbia, SC
Columbia, SC is just an hour from Augusta and makes for a really fun day trip.
There are several attractions worth visiting, including the amazing Riverbanks Zoo. There’s even a splash pad at the zoo— it makes for a much-needed reprieve on the ‘famously hot’ Columbia days.
If the weather isn’t great for a zoo day, check out EdVenture Children’s Museum or the SC State Museum. They share a parking lot!
And if you are looking for great bites, check out this guide to the best restaurants in Columbia.
Watch The Sunset On A Rooftop Bar
Unwind, relax, and take in stunning cityscapes all at once! Whether you’re a weekend visitor or a local seeking a unique night out, Augusta’s rooftop bars offer an unforgettable experience.
Lucky for you, there are several great rooftop bars in Augusta that will make for an unforgettable evening.
One of our top recommendations for a rooftop sunset view is Jackson’s Bluff. Not only is the view great, but they have excellent cocktails and small plates. Check our guide for other great spots.
Canal Boat Tour
Embark on a journey down the Savannah River on a Petersburg boat.
This unique canal boat tour offers a glimpse into the city’s industrial past, and immerses you in the natural beauty of the surrounding area.
All boat tour tickets include FREE admission to the Augusta Canal Discovery Center.
Living History Park In North Augusta
The Living History Park in North Augusta is a recreated village that offers a glimpse into the lives of early settlers in the region. The park represents the period between 1735-1785.
The park is managed by the non-profit Olde Towne Preservation Association and funded solely by donations and grants.
The Living History Park is pretty much open daily, though they do host private events there so be sure to check the calendar in advance. They also offer public events, like the annual July 4th celebration that includes a reading of the Declaration of Independence.
The park is just next to a playground, so it’s an excellent thing to do with kids in North Augusta.
Pexcho’s American Dime Museum
The last one on our things to do list is a little bit of an odd add. Well, the collection you can browse here is odd, at least.
Pexcho’s American Dime Museum is a faithful recreation of the late 19th and early 20th-century dime museums. It offers a glimpse into a bygone era of entertainment and curiosities.
Upon entering, you’ll be transported to a world reminiscent of the past, complete with subdued lighting, dark drapery, and displays housed in oak cabinets. The atmosphere itself is an experience, setting the stage for the collection’s eccentricities.
Prepare to be surprised and intrigued by the museum’s eclectic array of approximately 600 artifacts.
From animal oddities preserved in glass domes to historical medical devices and wax figures, Pexcho’s collection offers a diverse and often bizarre mix of objects.
Tours are by appointment only with at least 24-hour notice. Call the museum to book your visit.
