Introduction
What to do
Where to eat
When to visit
How to get there
Where to stay
Renting a car
Local costs

Augusta travel guide

Augusta Tourism | Augusta Guide

You're Going to Love Augusta

Step out of the hustle of big city life and experience Georgia's hospitality in Augusta. Pretty and picturesque, Augusta sits on the Savannah River. It's a small city with a laid-back vibe and friendly, small-town charm.

Top 5 Reasons to Visit Augusta

1. A Historic Previous State Capital

From the impressive dome of the state capital building to the Old Medical College of Georgia and many other buildings along Telfair and Greene Streets, there are many fine examples of classic colonial architecture dating as far back as the early 1700s.

2. Golf!

With its mild climate and lush countryside, the Augusta area is home to some of the country's finest golf courses, including the Augusta National Golf Club.

3. Explore Local Arts and Events

While it's a small city, Augusta is home to a thriving local arts scene and hosts many festivals and other events throughout the year. Be sure to check a local calendar before you go.

4. Fishing and Boating

The Savannah River is just the beginning of your options when it comes to fishing and boating. The area surrounding Augusta is full of ponds, lakes and rivers to explore.

5. Augusta Canal

Take a boat tour along the Augusta Canal - a designated National Heritage Area - or for a more active option, you can kayak or fish.

1. A Historic Previous State Capital

From the impressive dome of the state capital building to the Old Medical College of Georgia and many other buildings along Telfair and Greene Streets, there are many fine examples of classic colonial architecture dating as far back as the early 1700s.

2. Golf!

With its mild climate and lush countryside, the Augusta area is home to some of the country's finest golf courses, including the Augusta National Golf Club.

3. Explore Local Arts and Events

While it's a small city, Augusta is home to a thriving local arts scene and hosts many festivals and other events throughout the year. Be sure to check a local calendar before you go.

4. Fishing and Boating

The Savannah River is just the beginning of your options when it comes to fishing and boating. The area surrounding Augusta is full of ponds, lakes and rivers to explore.

5. Augusta Canal

Take a boat tour along the Augusta Canal - a designated National Heritage Area - or for a more active option, you can kayak or fish.

What to do in Augusta

1. Augusta Museum of History: A Feast for History Lovers

Founded in 1937, this absorbing museum documents Augusta's past in a riveting fashion. Trace the area's past from Native American roots to prosperity in the New South; learn about the railroads, how the emergency services have evolved and - perhaps inevitably - check out the excellent golf exhibit, which reflects Augusta's links with the US Masters tournament. But the collection here goes well beyond golf, with an homage to local legend James Brown, a recreation of a 1950s radio station and much more to enjoy.

2. Augusta Canal National Heritage Area: 'Waterway' to Spend the Afternoon

Built in 1845, the Augusta Canal helped to power the city's mills and factories, turning Augusta into a Georgian powerhouse. These days, while the canal is still in use, it's more of a tourist attraction. Winding its way through the metropolitan area, the towpath is a great place to hike and cycle, while guided boat tours will open your eyes to the importance of waterways in industrial development. And don't miss the Discovery Center at Enterprise Mill, which provides all the historical background you'll need.

3. Augusta Riverwalk Marina: A Cultural and Water Sports Center

This stretch of the Savannah River between 11th Street and the Gordon Bridge is both a great place to relax and full of interesting sites. Visitors can rent boats to enjoy the water, join guided tours, or stick to dry land at attractions like the Morris Museum of Art, Saint Paul's Church (established in 1750) or Fort Discovery - a wonderful playground crossed with a science museum.

4. Sacred Heart Cultural Center: A Vibrant Community Meeting Place

Situated on Greene Street in Downtown Augusta, the Sacred Heart Cultural Center is one of the most recognizable landmarks in town. Once a Catholic church, it's now been renovated and reopened as an all-round events center, hosting everything from wine festivals and choral concerts to April's popular Garden Festival, silent movie screenings, and plenty of art exhibitions. Be sure to check out their schedule if you're in town, and pop into the gift shop - one of the best souvenir stores in Augusta.

5. Imperial Theater: Augusta's Premier Performance Space

Billing itself as "Georgia's premier entertainment venue", the 853-seat Imperial Theater has been hosting world-class music acts since 1918. Within months of its opening, iconic celebrities like Charlie Chaplin and ballet dancer Anna Pavlova had trod the boards in the theater, cementing its role as the artistic hub of the city. A recent renovation has restored the Imperial's grandeur, while it has also embraced its fame, allowing guests to take guided tours behind the scenes to the dressing rooms. With great shows taking place all the time, if you love music, the Imperial Theater is an unmissable Augusta attraction.

Augusta Canal National Heritage AreaAugusta Canal National Heritage Area
Imperial TheaterImperial Theater

1. Augusta Museum of History: A Feast for History Lovers

Founded in 1937, this absorbing museum documents Augusta's past in a riveting fashion. Trace the area's past from Native American roots to prosperity in the New South; learn about the railroads, how the emergency services have evolved and - perhaps inevitably - check out the excellent golf exhibit, which reflects Augusta's links with the US Masters tournament. But the collection here goes well beyond golf, with an homage to local legend James Brown, a recreation of a 1950s radio station and much more to enjoy.

2. Augusta Canal National Heritage Area: 'Waterway' to Spend the Afternoon

Built in 1845, the Augusta Canal helped to power the city's mills and factories, turning Augusta into a Georgian powerhouse. These days, while the canal is still in use, it's more of a tourist attraction. Winding its way through the metropolitan area, the towpath is a great place to hike and cycle, while guided boat tours will open your eyes to the importance of waterways in industrial development. And don't miss the Discovery Center at Enterprise Mill, which provides all the historical background you'll need.

3. Augusta Riverwalk Marina: A Cultural and Water Sports Center

This stretch of the Savannah River between 11th Street and the Gordon Bridge is both a great place to relax and full of interesting sites. Visitors can rent boats to enjoy the water, join guided tours, or stick to dry land at attractions like the Morris Museum of Art, Saint Paul's Church (established in 1750) or Fort Discovery - a wonderful playground crossed with a science museum.

4. Sacred Heart Cultural Center: A Vibrant Community Meeting Place

Situated on Greene Street in Downtown Augusta, the Sacred Heart Cultural Center is one of the most recognizable landmarks in town. Once a Catholic church, it's now been renovated and reopened as an all-round events center, hosting everything from wine festivals and choral concerts to April's popular Garden Festival, silent movie screenings, and plenty of art exhibitions. Be sure to check out their schedule if you're in town, and pop into the gift shop - one of the best souvenir stores in Augusta.

5. Imperial Theater: Augusta's Premier Performance Space

Billing itself as "Georgia's premier entertainment venue", the 853-seat Imperial Theater has been hosting world-class music acts since 1918. Within months of its opening, iconic celebrities like Charlie Chaplin and ballet dancer Anna Pavlova had trod the boards in the theater, cementing its role as the artistic hub of the city. A recent renovation has restored the Imperial's grandeur, while it has also embraced its fame, allowing guests to take guided tours behind the scenes to the dressing rooms. With great shows taking place all the time, if you love music, the Imperial Theater is an unmissable Augusta attraction.

Augusta Canal National Heritage AreaAugusta Canal National Heritage Area
Imperial TheaterImperial Theater

1. Augusta Museum of History: A Feast for History Lovers

Founded in 1937, this absorbing museum documents Augusta's past in a riveting fashion. Trace the area's past from Native American roots to prosperity in the New South; learn about the railroads, how the emergency services have evolved and - perhaps inevitably - check out the excellent golf exhibit, which reflects Augusta's links with the US Masters tournament. But the collection here goes well beyond golf, with an homage to local legend James Brown, a recreation of a 1950s radio station and much more to enjoy.

Augusta Canal National Heritage Area

2. Augusta Canal National Heritage Area: 'Waterway' to Spend the Afternoon

Built in 1845, the Augusta Canal helped to power the city's mills and factories, turning Augusta into a Georgian powerhouse. These days, while the canal is still in use, it's more of a tourist attraction. Winding its way through the metropolitan area, the towpath is a great place to hike and cycle, while guided boat tours will open your eyes to the importance of waterways in industrial development. And don't miss the Discovery Center at Enterprise Mill, which provides all the historical background you'll need.

Imperial Theater

3. Augusta Riverwalk Marina: A Cultural and Water Sports Center

This stretch of the Savannah River between 11th Street and the Gordon Bridge is both a great place to relax and full of interesting sites. Visitors can rent boats to enjoy the water, join guided tours, or stick to dry land at attractions like the Morris Museum of Art, Saint Paul's Church (established in 1750) or Fort Discovery - a wonderful playground crossed with a science museum.

4. Sacred Heart Cultural Center: A Vibrant Community Meeting Place

Situated on Greene Street in Downtown Augusta, the Sacred Heart Cultural Center is one of the most recognizable landmarks in town. Once a Catholic church, it's now been renovated and reopened as an all-round events center, hosting everything from wine festivals and choral concerts to April's popular Garden Festival, silent movie screenings, and plenty of art exhibitions. Be sure to check out their schedule if you're in town, and pop into the gift shop - one of the best souvenir stores in Augusta.

5. Imperial Theater: Augusta's Premier Performance Space

Billing itself as "Georgia's premier entertainment venue", the 853-seat Imperial Theater has been hosting world-class music acts since 1918. Within months of its opening, iconic celebrities like Charlie Chaplin and ballet dancer Anna Pavlova had trod the boards in the theater, cementing its role as the artistic hub of the city. A recent renovation has restored the Imperial's grandeur, while it has also embraced its fame, allowing guests to take guided tours behind the scenes to the dressing rooms. With great shows taking place all the time, if you love music, the Imperial Theater is an unmissable Augusta attraction.

Where to Eat in Augusta

You'll love the classic American cuisine done right at the Frog Hollow Tavern, where main dishes start at about $20. Calverts blends American and French cuisine for high-end fare that starts at $30.

When to visit Augusta

Augusta in June
Estimated hotel price
$113
1 night at 3-star hotel
Augusta in June
Estimated hotel price
$113
1 night at 3-star hotel

With mild winters and hot, humid summers, Augusta is a year-round destination. Many visitors prefer the more temperate spring and early summer, along with fall for fishing.

Data provided by weatherbase
Temperatures
Temperatures
Data provided by weatherbase

How to Get to Augusta

Plane

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) in Atlanta is the nearest international airport at 151 miles away. Regional flights from some carriers arrive at Augusta Regional Airport (AGS). A car rental is the best option to get into thecity of Augusta.

Train

There is no direct train service to Augusta.

Car

Located just across the river from South Carolina on I-20, Augusta is easy to get to by car, with connections to major centers throughout the state and beyond.

Bus

Greyhound Bus company provides intercity service connecting Augusta to major centers in Georgia and South Carolina.

Plane

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) in Atlanta is the nearest international airport at 151 miles away. Regional flights from some carriers arrive at Augusta Regional Airport (AGS). A car rental is the best option to get into thecity of Augusta.

Train

There is no direct train service to Augusta.

Car

Located just across the river from South Carolina on I-20, Augusta is easy to get to by car, with connections to major centers throughout the state and beyond.

Bus

Greyhound Bus company provides intercity service connecting Augusta to major centers in Georgia and South Carolina.

Airports near Augusta

GSPGreenville
CAEColumbia Metropolitan
AGSAugusta Bush Field

Airlines serving Augusta

Lufthansa
Good (7,198 reviews)
KLM
Good (1,372 reviews)
British Airways
Good (7,104 reviews)
Delta
Excellent (7,952 reviews)
Air France
Good (1,468 reviews)
Austrian Airlines
Good (806 reviews)
United Airlines
Good (8,845 reviews)
Emirates
Excellent (3,287 reviews)
Qatar Airways
Good (3,590 reviews)
Scandinavian Airlines
Good (1,418 reviews)
Air Canada
Good (9,692 reviews)
Brussels Airlines
Good (351 reviews)
Alaska Airlines
Excellent (10,366 reviews)
Finnair
Good (1,312 reviews)
Spirit Airlines
Good (8,056 reviews)
Avianca
Good (2,374 reviews)
ANA
Excellent (898 reviews)
LATAM Airlines
Good (1,807 reviews)
Korean Air
Excellent (1,105 reviews)
Japan Airlines
Excellent (1,509 reviews)
Show more
Find flights to Augusta

Where to stay in Augusta

Enjoy modern luxury at the Hyatt Place Augusta, with its convenient location. You'll have all the comforts of home at the Home2 Suites by Hilton Augusta, where you can choose a suite with a fully equipped kitchen.

Popular Neighborhoods in Augusta

National Hills - this riverfront area is where you'll find a busy commercial area, including many shopping and dining options along Washington Road.

Lake Aumond - this upscale neighborhood is where you'll find a shopping and dining scene along Wrightsboro Road.

Downtown Historic District - this is where you'll find the charming architecture and the picturesque Riverwalk.

National Hills - this riverfront area is where you'll find a busy commercial area, including many shopping and dining options along Washington Road.
Lake Aumond - this upscale neighborhood is where you'll find a shopping and dining scene along Wrightsboro Road.
Downtown Historic District - this is where you'll find the charming architecture and the picturesque Riverwalk.
Most popular hotel in Augusta by neighborhood

Where to stay in popular areas of Augusta

Most booked hotels in Augusta

See all
Holiday Inn Express North Augusta - Sc
2 stars
Excellent (8.9, 405 reviews)
$146+
View
Tru by Hilton North Augusta
2 stars
Excellent (9.1, 70 reviews)
$128+
View
Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton Augusta-Washington Rd
2 stars
Excellent (8.6, 690 reviews)
$115+
View
Hilton Garden Inn Augusta
3 stars
Excellent (8.6, 166 reviews)
$145+
View
Crowne Plaza North Augusta
3 stars
Excellent (8.5, 424 reviews)
$149+
View
Hyatt Place Augusta
3 stars
Excellent (8.4, 971 reviews)
$124+
View

How to Get Around Augusta

Public Transportation

There is a bus system that services most parts of Augusta. Fares start at $1.25, with a weekly pass available for $15.

Taxi

Taxis can be somewhat expensive since attractions are often spread out over the area. Cross-town fares can cost up to $30.

Car

A car rental is a good option for getting around the city and exploring the countryside. A compact rental starts at about $55 per day.

Public Transportation

There is a bus system that services most parts of Augusta. Fares start at $1.25, with a weekly pass available for $15.

Taxi

Taxis can be somewhat expensive since attractions are often spread out over the area. Cross-town fares can cost up to $30.

Car

A car rental is a good option for getting around the city and exploring the countryside. A compact rental starts at about $55 per day.

Best car rental deals in Augusta

Supplier choice

5 Adults, 5 Bags

$37/day

Supplier choice

Economy

2 Adults, 2 Bags

$38/day

Economy
Find car rentals in Augusta

The Cost of Living in Augusta

Shopping Streets

Washington Road is where you'll find many shopping options, including grocery stores and boutiques. For souvenirs and other local goods, check out the downtown historic area for specialty boutiques and stores.

Groceries and Other

Publix has multiple locations in Augusta, along with a large Harvey's Supermarket, where you'll find reasonable prices and well-stocked shelves. A quart of milk costs about $0.90 and a dozen eggs $1.75.

Cheap meal
$12.00
A pair of jeans
$30.00
Single public transport ticket
$2.00
Cappuccino
$3.83

Everything you need to know for your stay in Augusta

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Augusta Travel Guide - View the KAYAK Augusta city guide for the best Augusta travel tips. To help you organize your Augusta trip ideas, this Augusta visitors guide provides travel information and trip tips about how to get there, where to stay, what to do, where to eat and more.