Top 15 Memorable Day Trips Near Augusta, GA

Augusta is recognized globally for golf and is situated in the heartland of Georgia, often referred to as the “Garden City” of the South. Established in 1736, the city is named after Princess August of Saxegotha. Due to its strategic inland position, Augusta was largely spared from significant destruction during the concluding stages of the Civil War, allowing many of its historical structures and landmarks to remain intact. Augusta stands as the second oldest and the second largest city in Georgia.

This vibrant city is infused with atmosphere, charm, and history. Even if time is limited, numerous attractions are conveniently located within a short drive. The surrounding region boasts remarkable natural beauty, well worth exploration. Having visited Augusta numerous times over the years, I have accumulated experiences of its key attractions and landmarks. Presented below are what I believe to be the most compelling day trips from Augusta to ignite your sense of adventure.

1. Augusta Museum of History

This museum was founded in 1937 with the mission of collecting, preserving, and interpreting the history of Augusta and its surrounding areas. The institution aims to enrich future generations by safeguarding this history.

The museum features invaluable displays including images, artifacts, and dioramas that illustrate the extensive narrative of local and regional history. These exhibits reflect a 12,000-year journey through Augusta’s diverse past.

Additionally, the museum functions as a research and resource center for historians and is the sole accredited museum in the Central Savannah River Area recognized by the American Alliance of Museums.

2. Savannah Rapids Park

Occupying an expanse of 33 acres, Savannah Rapids Park includes the Historic Augusta Canal Headgates and the Savannah Rapids Pavilion, providing views of the scenic Reed Creek Falls, which feed into the canal.

The park encompasses a 7.5-mile trail that extends to Augusta.

For those in search of a historically rich escape filled with museums, educational sites, and attractions, the Savannah Rapids Visitor Center is an ideal destination. A gift shop is available for visitors wishing to purchase souvenirs.

3. Magnolia Cemetery

This historic cemetery located in Augusta, Georgia, was established in 1818 and spans an area of 60 acres. Originally known as Augusta City Cemetery, it contains several church sections and is the final resting place for seven Confederate generals, five Jewish cemeteries, a Greek cemetery, and the oldest tree in Georgia.

The land on which Magnolia Cemetery resides was once part of a plantation owned by the Academy of Richmond County. The first official burial occurred in August 1818, after the City Council of Augusta purchased the first two blocks for $800 in 1817.

A visit to this unique burial site reveals one of the most intriguing locations in the South. Take a leisurely stroll to appreciate the combination of unusual yet captivating tombstones, each telling a unique story.

4. Tallulah Falls

Tallulah Falls, situated in the Tallulah Gorge, was carved out by the Tallulah River. The gorge stands as one of Georgia’s Seven Natural Wonders. The falls themselves drop a total of 490 ft over the course of one mile, comprised of six separate cascades.

Further upstream lies Tallulah Falls Lake, formed by a dam constructed in 1913 by the Georgia Power Company.

Tourists journey from across the region to admire the stunning waterfalls and the impressive gorge.

5. Haunted Pillar

Located on Broad Street in Augusta’s Historic District, the Haunted Pillar is a landmark adjacent to the remnants of a former farmer’s market, which operated from 1830 until 1878 before being destroyed by a tornado on February 8, 1878.

In 1930, a press agency was paid approximately $35,000 to initiate an advertising campaign aimed at revitalizing the town’s economy. As part of this effort, they propagated a ghost story centered on “The Haunted Pillar.” Local lore suggests a preacher cast a curse on the pillar after being denied the opportunity to preach there in 1829. Unfortunately, the cursed pillar was destroyed in a car accident on December 17, 2016.

6. Phinizy Swamp Nature Park

This nature park offers an excellent opportunity to unwind while observing a variety of wildlife. Phinizy Swamp Nature Park is situated just minutes from downtown Augusta and spans 1,100 acres, featuring a campus dedicated to water research and environmental education alongside wetlands and woodlands.

A visitor center facilitates opportunities to observe birds such as the red-shouldered hawk, black-bellied whistling duck, sora, bald eagle, and the great blue heron, while encountering various wildlife, including snakes, frogs, toads, and alligators.

7. Meadow Garden

Meadow Garden is a nationally recognized historic landmark and among Georgia’s oldest residences, once inhabited by George Walton.

Established as a museum in 1901 and designated a National Historic Landmark in 1981, this charming house invites visitors to explore porcelain, English furnishings, paintings, and artifacts from the 18th and 19th centuries.

8. Lake Olmstead Stadium

This stadium, completed in 1995, accommodates 4,822 spectators and serves as an outdoor arena for various events. It includes over 2,500 general admission seats, approximately 1,000 box seats, and 830 reserved seats.

Primarily constructed as a baseball venue, Lake Olmstead Stadium has been home to the GreenJackets since 1995, evolving into a versatile entertainment center for Augusta over the years.

In 2006, the Budweiser Party Pavilion was added, providing a venue that can host between 20 and 500 individuals.

9. Sacred Heart Cultural Center

Also known as Sacred Heart Catholic Church, this cultural center stands as one of the city’s most recognized landmarks.

Constructed in 1897, the Sacred Heart Cultural Center features towering twin spires, an array of 15 unique brickwork styles, 94 stained glass windows, elegant arches, intricately carved Italian marble altars, and a barrel-vaulted ceiling.

The inaugural service was conducted here in December 1900.

10. Cumberland Island National Seashore

Cumberland Island, located south of Georgia’s coast, is the largest and southernmost island in the state. The National Seashore preserves and interprets natural areas alongside historic sites and structures. Its undeveloped landscape includes beaches, freshwater lakes, dunes, salt marshes, mud flats, tidal creeks, and maritime forests.

Spanning 17.5 miles in length and encompassing 36,415 acres, this day trip from Augusta is notably special due to the restricted access, which prevents overcrowding.

Visitors may have the chance to see wild horses roaming freely, as well as turtles, wild turkeys, armadillos, and a variety of shorebirds.

11. Rock City

This location offers a remarkable showcase of nature’s beauty. Situated atop Lookout Mountain at an elevation of 1700 feet, Rock City features gardens housing over 400 species of native plants, enormous ancient rock formations, and astonishing panoramic vistas. It is said that from Lover’s Leap, one can view seven states.

Each season presents new discoveries, making Rock City an excellent destination for repeated visits during day trips from Augusta throughout the year.

Highlights include the renowned Swing-A-Long Bridge and the enchanting Fairyland Caverns. Remember to bring a camera to capture some stunning photographs.

12. World Of Coca-Cola

A visit to the World of Coca-Cola unveils the secret to happiness. This attraction offers an array of experiences, including galleries dedicated to the cultural significance of Coca-Cola and a multi-sensory 4-D theater.

Spanning 20 acres, the World of Coca-Cola complex boasts over 62,000 square feet of guest areas and features more than 1,200 artifacts previously unseen by the public, opening its doors on May 24, 2007.

For those eager to tantalize their taste buds, the venue provides opportunities to sample various beverages, with an option to create a customized blend.

13. Trail of Tears National Historic Trail

This historic trail commemorates the 16,000 Cherokee Indians who were forcibly relocated from their homes across North Carolina, Alabama, Tennessee, and Georgia to Oklahoma (then Indian Territory) in 1838.

The Trail of Tears National Historic Trail stands as a testament to the resilience of the Cherokee during this harrowing journey, during which hundreds lost their lives, and many more succumbed to post-relocation hardships in Oklahoma.

14. Chattahoochee Beach and Waterpark

Located at Lake Lanier Islands Resort, Chattahoochee Beach and Waterpark features over a dozen attractions. For those seeking relaxation, the pristine sandy beaches offer picturesque views of Lake Lanier.

This destination provides families with an engaging day trip experience from Augusta immersed in natural beauty and fun-filled activities.

15. Stone Mountain Park

Welcoming over 4 million visitors annually, Stone Mountain Park is the most frequented attraction in Georgia and is highly recommended for exploration. Covering 3,200 acres, the park offers a plethora of attractions, including two championship golf courses.

The numerous entertainment options and adventures that await visitors at this natural park are truly remarkable.

Bring your entire family along, as there are countless interactive attractions designed specifically for children. Stone Mountain Park indeed caters to a wide audience, featuring over 15 miles of nature trails, including a 1.3-mile trail that leads to the mountain’s summit.