Augusta

Augusta blends Southern charm, history, and outdoor adventure – along with a walkable, historic downtown and riverwalk – along the banks of the Savannah River. Start with a stroll along the scenic Riverwalk, pop in shops and cafes, then explore the Morris Museum of Art, which showcases many Southern artists. Other attractions include the Boyhood Home of Woodrow Wilson, Augusta Canal National Heritage Area, the fun 5th Street Pedestrian Bridge, and a selfie spot in front of a mural featuring music legend James Brown. You can explore the outdoors at Rae’s Creek Aqueduct Park or on a Cole Watkins Kayak Tour. Augusta is perhaps most famous for being home to the Masters Golf Tournament, plus there’s Topgolf Augusta with a mini-golf course for the kids, as well. 

Travelers with little ones in tow can enjoy hands-on learning at the Imagination Station Children’s Museum, learn about the city’s past at the Augusta Museum of History (with a fun “Polar Express” experience during the holidays), or head outdoors to the free Phinizy Swamp Nature Park, where miles of trails offer opportunities to spy on wildlife like otters and alligators. (There is also a playground, obstacle course, and art sculptures throughout the park.) Families can catch a baseball game of the Atlanta Braves-affiliate Augusta Greenjackets, while couples can embark on sunset walks along the Riverwalk or peaceful boat tours on the Augusta Canal. 

Augusta is best known for hosting the world-famous Masters Golf Tournament each April, but the city’s event calendar offers much more year-round. Popular festivals include a St. Patrick’s Day celebration in March, Augusta Pride in June, Arts in the Heart of Augusta in September, Westobou Festival in October, and the Foodees Festival in November. 

The best time to visit Augusta is in the spring (April and May) and fall (October and November), when the weather is mild. April is especially popular, thanks to the Masters Tournament. But Augusta is a great place to visit during the winter, too, with fewer crowds and mild, pleasant weather that still allows for outdoor activities. 

Spring is mild to warm, with temperatures ranging from the 60s to low 80s. Summers are hot, often reaching the low 90s. Fall brings some of the most comfortable weather of the year, with mild temperatures and lower humidity. Winters are generally mild, with daytime highs in the 60s.

Augusta is located in east-central Georgia along the Savannah River, which forms the border between Georgia and South Carolina. It sits about 150 miles east of Atlanta.

Augusta Regional Airport (AGS) is the airport in Augusta, located about 10 minutes from downtown, making it the most convenient option with direct flights from Atlanta, Charlotte, and Washington, DC. But travelers can also fly into Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE), about an hour away.