Authentic Augusta: 10 All-New Guided Tours and Immersive Experiences

With its gracious Southern hospitality and dynamic mix of culture, historic charm, and urban outdoor adventures, the city of Augusta is ideal for an exciting weekend getaway filled with unexpected things to see and do—and it’s even better with a local insider leading the way. See Augusta in a whole new light with 10 NEW Authentic Augusta Experiences. These unique curated tours and hands-on activities make you a part of the experience and leave you with lifelong memories of your visit to Augusta.

ART TOURS & HANDS-ON ACTIVITIES

Spark your imagination at the Morris Museum of Art as an expert guide reveals insider secrets and hidden history during the Mystery at the Morris, The Rest of the Story experience. You’ll discover how the Morris family acquired this incredible collection, all while hearing stories of the artworks, artists, and techniques used to create these Southern masterpieces.

Or head outdoors to take in some sunshine with a side of culture on a Promenade & Paint experience created by the Greater Augusta Arts Council. Stroll past public works of art along the Augusta Sculpture Trail, featuring 15 sculptures on display throughout downtown. View murals created by local artists through the Art the Box and Storm Drain public art projects. Then, meet with a local artist for a mini mural-making session to create your very own work of art.

With The Curated Palette experience at Westobou Gallery, the contemporary art world seamlessly combines with the art of cuisine. Get a behind-the-scenes look at how gallery curators immerse visitors into the imaginative world envisioned by artists and take that inspiration to spark your own one-of-a-kind vision by designing your own artistic (and delicious) charcuterie board.

CULINARY EXPERIENCES

Learn the art of the cocktail with the Bartender for a Day class led by renowned local bartender Zach McCabe of All Equal Parts. Each class is themed to cover a unique aspect of mixology—from classic concoctions to holiday drinks and beyond—while unveiling the history of the recipes, little-known facts and, of course, the skills to perfect these beloved libations. Watch demonstrations and get hands-on experience for re-creating three cocktails at home.

For a drink that will take you further back in time, time travel to the days of President Woodrow Wilson at the interactive experience Bringing up a President, Tea with Mrs. Wilson presented by Historic Augusta. You’ll learn all about how growing up in Augusta shaped the character and life of the 28th President of the United States. Explore his boyhood home and hear stories from “Mrs. Wilson” as she recounts the challenges and events of raising a family and living during the Civil War and into the Reconstruction era.

HISTORY TOURS & ACTIVITIES

The Augusta Canal National Heritage Area preserves the history of the Industrial Revolution in the American South and tells the story of how water-powered factories propelled economic prosperity in the region. The Canal to Cloth, A Day at the Mill experience includes interactive activities where you'll discover the process of converting cotton to cloth and what life was like working at the mill. Cruise the Augusta Canal on a guided Petersburg Boat tour to hear stories of its historic banks.

Did you know that the historic Augusta National Golf Club once had a renowned team of “Men on the Bag”? This all-Black caddie corps was known for professional insights into reading the greens and assisting golfers on their quest to win The Masters. During Augusta's Black Caddies – Men on the Bag experience, learn the stories of legendary caddies such as Pappy Stokes, Dead Man, and more who overcame adversity on the golf course.

For an experience that’s fun for seasoned historians and curious explorers alike, take a family-friendly trip to the Augusta Museum of History. After exploring exhibits on local history, military, James Brown, and more, join the Augusta Museum of History's Time Detectives and help solve the mystery of Reggie Racoon and the museum's lost artifacts. Test your code-cracking skills and become a Time Detective to restore Augusta's historical timeline and the space-time continuum.

OUTDOOR EXPERIENCES

Or, bring the whole family to explore the nature trails, boardwalk, and wetlands of Phinizy Center & Nature Park, where scientists provide leadership in maintaining sustainable watersheds for local communities. You can learn about this work in the Eco Explorers program, as you become a citizen scientist collecting water samples, analyzing insects, and even evaluating the health of the local water supply. Remember to bring binoculars to spot birds and other wildlife.

For groups of friends looking to explore downtown Augusta, hop on a cruiser bike with Bike Bike Baby for the Cycle the Soul City: Heart of Augusta Tour. You’ll pedal through downtown Augusta to see historic landmarks, explore museums, savor delicious food and take in the scenery—all while cruising to sultry soul sounds.

Learn more about these Authentic Augusta experiences and discover even more exciting things to do in Augusta with the free Augusta Experience Guide.