The Ultimate Guide to Augusta's Hidden Gems
From a retro department store to a secluded island with donkeys & more…
When most people think of Augusta, their first thought is probably fancy green jackets and a little thing called The Masters but this "garden city" nestled along the Savannah River is so much more than that.
From incredible street art, to architecture, history, outdoor adventures and more, Augusta has a little bit of everything. I recently got to spend a few days here exploring and really enjoyed experiencing some of these unexpected treasures (and of course eating all the food). I used the Visit Augusta website to help with trip planning (especially for the mural locations). If you go, make sure to drop by their physical downtown location (Augusta & Co) on Broad Street for local goods and maps!
Disclosure: This content was created in paid partnership with Visit Augusta. As always all opinions are my own. Thank you for supporting this page!
1. Outdoor Art
Walk around town and find art around every corner
One of my favorite things to do when I visit a city is go mural hunting. Before I begin my trip, I compile a list of murals (like this one) and map out my route so I can see as many of them as possible.
I had a dozen places on my list before I arrived in Augusta but as toured the city I saw SO MUCH more than I was even expecting. There is art EVERYWHERE -- inside, outside, painted on walls, utility boxes and more. The art is fresh and exciting! If you're looking for some great photo back drops or just want some inspiration, make sure to check out this list or just keep your eyes open as you walk around town.
2. Pexcho's American Dime Museum
Visit the last dime museum in the world
Pexcho's American Dime Museum is the last of its kind! Modeled after the original dime museums from the late 1800s that promised visitors something truly spectacular (mermaids! sword swallowers!) for a mere 10-cent admission fee.
The most famous of these "pop-up sideshows" was P.T. Barnum's American Museum in New York City, whose colorful history you'll learn about during your tour of Pexcho's led by owner/operator Peter Excho. He offers a one-of-a-kind experience that is both entertaining and informative. I highly recommend this unique stop -- you won't find this anywhere else!
Tip: Tours must be booked in advance and it's worth it for the fascinating history lesson and the strange curiosities inside, including a two-headed T. rex skeleton, goblin shark and a real-life sword swallower!
3. Riverwalk + Pedestrian Bridge
Enjoy a stroll along the Savannah River and walk across a bridge to South Carolina
The Augusta Riverwalk is a scenic 1-mile paved boardwalk that starts behind the Marriott/Convention Center and leads to a marina and pedestrian bridge. Along the way, it offers great views of South Carolina and the houses that dot the shoreline.
The newly built 5th Street Pedestrian Bridge connects Georgia to South Carolina and features public art, musical installations, benches and even charging stations in addition to great views of the marina and Savannah River.
4. Architecture: Sacred Heart Cultural Center
Tour this former church turned art and event hub
Originally built as a Catholic church in 1900, the Sacred Heart Cultural Center is now an event space, gift shop and art gallery. It's definitely worth a visit to self-tour this stunning example of Romanesque architecture, from the beautiful arches to the stained glass windows (ask a guide to tell you the unusual story behind the last supper window). Check out the audio guide and learn more about how this space was rescued from 16 years of vacancy, vandalism and near destruction and now stands as a one of Augusta's most beloved landmarks.
5. Canal + History Museum
Immerse yourself in an authentically Augusta experience
A visit to the Augusta Canal Discovery Center is a must while you're in town to learn about the city's heritage and the pivotal role the canal played in its development. If you want the full experience I recommend the Canal to Cloth Immersion Tour. It begins with a narrated boat tour, followed by a guided museum tour where you have the unique opportunity to experience what it was like to work in a mill. The museum tour is guided by actors, including a bare-footed boy who engages visitors in a game to test their spooling skills. This interactive element added such a fun touch, especially for the kids on the tour, who really seemed to enjoy seeing history come to life. At the end of the tour you will get a behind-the-scences look at the massive 1920s generators that still power the building today. Not to mention, you'll get to use your "mill earnings" for a discount in the gift shop.
6. Coffee Trail
Fuel up on this caffeine-inspired tour
Augusta does not lack for coffee shops -- in fact, it has its own Coffee Trail so you don't miss any! My first stop in town was at the absolutely adorable Trellis Coffee Bar (pictured below). It was mid-day on a Tuesday and this place was buzzing (my guess is it has something to do with their delicious brew). The staff was so friendly and the space was designed impeccably. I could have stayed here all day. Be sure to download your coffee passport here to find all the spots where you can earn rewards and prizes (it's free to use).
7.Phinzy Swamp
Learn about water conservation at this peaceful nature park
If you want to get up close and personal to dragonflies, herons, turtles, gators and more, add a visit to Phinzy Swamp to your list. You'll find a visitor center on campus and if you're lucky enough, Tim, one of the local volunteers, will show you the picture of the gator he spotted on his walk -- it's impressive! I did not see any gators during my visit (it was mid-day and too hot for them to come out of the water) but I loved exploring the grounds and learning about the important work the swamp and research center play in local water sustainability and conservation. This is a great spot to take kids with a playground and picnic tables in addition to the boardwalk and walking trails.
8. Donkeys at Stallings Island
Kayak to an island and feed carrots to donkeys
This was one of the most unique experiences I've ever had in Georgia! The kayak trip is relatively easy, taking less than 2 hours roundtrip, including a visit with the donkeys. I booked with Cole Watkins Tours and had a fantastic time with my guide, Milledge, as we paddled to the secluded Stallings Island.
Upon arrival, we were encouraged to call out (in our best donkey voices) to let the donkeys know we were there. These friendly animals roam the island freely, and though it's relatively large, we were fortunate to find them waiting near a shaded shoreline. Visitors aren't allowed onto the island, so we fed them from our kayaks. Despite their aversion to water, the donkeys had no problem reaching into our kayak for a snack. I found them absolutely adorable, and this experience was a major highlight of my trip!
9. Food
Induldge in southern specialties and some seriously good sandwiches
Oh my goodness did I eat some delicious food here! My first stop was at Hilderbrandt's, a local institution since 1879, where I ate a melt-in-your-mouth Italian sandwich. For dinner, I drove 15 minutes outside of town to Rhinehart's Oyster Bar which has a cozy "shack/beach" atmosphere. If you go, get the shrimp -- fried or grilled on grits -- and you won't be disappointed. I finished my day with a slice of tropical coconut cake from The Boll Weevil Cafe, which was so deliciously generous it took me two days to finish.
The next morning I started with a refreshing juice from Humanitree House —so good that I returned later for their vegan Philly cheesesteak, a recommendation I fully understand now, given how many people told me to visit. For lunch, I visited Edgars Above Broad, part of Goodwill's culinary training program—an unexpected gem. Dinner that evening was at Rae's Coastal Cafe Augusta's best-kept secret tucked away in a neighborhood—a 15-minute drive from town well worth it (try their crabcake special if available). Finally, on my way out of town, I couldn't resist stopping at The Brunch House—a cozy vintage diner with seriously delicious food and exceptional service.
Left to Right: Hildebrandts, Rhinehart's Oyster Bar and The Boll Weevil Cafe & Sweetery
10. Shopping
Art galleries, book shops, vintage finds and more
During my trip, I only had time to explore a few shops in the downtown area, but as a book lover, visiting The Book Tavern was a must—and I'm so glad I did! The shop is stunning with its tall ceilings and an extensive collection of books and curated goods for book enthusiasts.
However, the shop that suprised me the most was Ruben's department store. From the outside, it appeared like any other older department store, but stepping inside was a journey back in time. All the fixtures and furnishings are original, and amazingly, all the merchandise is from the 1980s (yes, really!). I loved it so much that I returned multiple times during my visit to chat with the staff and learn more about store's history. They mentioned they go all out for Christmas, so I'm already looking forward to returning during the holidays.
Left to Right: Ruben's Department Store, The Book Tavern and Freshwater Curated Goods.
If you're looking to make this a weekend getaway, the Augusta Marriott at the Convention Center is located right on the Riverwalk, with a pool, onsite restaurant and parking garage, making it a great location for exploring the area.
Enjoy your adventure and let me know if you have any quesitons!
Thank you again Visit Augusta for sponsoring this trip!
xoKerry
Hurricane Helene Resources
A note from the city of Augusta
In the wake of Hurricane Helene, Augusta has faced a difficult and heartbreaking time. However, our resilient and strong community has come together, showing tremendous determination as we work diligently on cleanup and recovery efforts. From the dedicated efforts of our first responders and volunteers to the outpouring of neighborly support, Augusta is standing strong, united in our mission to restore and rebuild the community we know and love.
We want to express our deepest gratitude to everyone who has reached out with their thoughts, support, and resources. As we work through these challenging days, we are committed to rising stronger than ever before. The bright future we envision for Augusta is one filled with hope, promise, and an even more vibrant city.
As we continue to restore our beloved home, we invite everyone to visit when the time is right. Augusta’s spirit, culture, and charm will be here waiting to welcome you.
Here are a few links for those who have asked about resources that will aid our ongoing efforts to uplift our community:
“We are so appreciative of the overwhelming support from across the country. Augusta looks forward to the brighter days ahead, where an even better and stronger city will rise from this devastation. Together, we will recover and show everyone why they should Come See Augusta.” said, Bennish Brown, President of Destination Augusta.”
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