Celebrate America’s 250th in Augusta, GA: Historic Sites, Riverwalk Strolls & Timeless Things to Do

Why 2026 Is the Perfect Year to Visit Augusta, Georgia 

America’s 250th Birthday Comes to Life in The Feel Good City

America is gearing up for its 250th birthday this year… and there’s no better place to observe the nation’s semi-quincentennial than in Augusta, one of Georgia’s oldest cities.

Augusta, Georgia, offers a plethora of cultural attractions and events to enjoy, including multiple museums and galleries, culinary experiences and unique night spots. But in 2026, Augusta is putting out a special welcome mat for travelers planning to celebrate America’s 250th birthday.

Get the Most Out of Your Visit by Downloading the America 250 Augusta History Trail Pass 

Be “in the know” about the fun and excitement awaiting you in Augusta. Georgia, by accessing the free digital America 250 Augusta History Trail Pass. This guide to historic sites, museums, Revolutionary War landmarks, and cultural attractions highlights the city’s connection to the founding of our country, and how the people of Augusta have shaped our history. 

The historic stops on the trail include: 

• Augusta Riverwalk’s parks, sculptures, culinary offerings, and museums; 

• Augusta Museum of History’s exhibits;

• St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, Augusta’s first church (1749), which also served as Fort Augusta, Fort Cornwallis, and an Indian trading center; 

• Meadow Garden, the home of George Walton, one of the Declaration of Independence’s youngest signers; 

• the Boyhood Home of President Woodrow Wilson;

• Signers Monument that marks the graves of two signers of the Declaration of Independence; 

• Springfield Village Park, and the Springfield Baptist Church, America’s oldest African-American church; 

• the Lucy Craft Laney Museum of Black History that honors one of Georgia’s most influential educators;  

• Augusta Canal Discovery Center, the starting point for all canal boat tours; and 

• the Ezekiel Harris House, built in 1797. 

Using the America 250 Augusta History Trail Pass 

This easy-to-use guide puts Augusta’s historic locations and events in the palm of your hand. Discover this vibrant city’s important role in shaping our country’s legacy from before it was founded in 1776 until now. Start by accessing it from your smartphone. As you visit each of the stops along the America 250 Augusta History Trail, simply check in on your phone. The trail is self-guided with no deadline for completing it. 

Celebrate A Year of Experiences, Festivals & Southern Hospitality 

Visitors to Augusta in 2026 will also find several America 250 events planned throughout the city. Enjoy concerts, historic tours, and exhibits that educate visitors about Augusta’s history through the Civil War, the Revolutionary War, and into modern times. One such meaningful and informative exhibit is the Guard House Museum Exhibit, open daily through the end of the year, at the Augusta Arsenal at Augusta University. Exhibit visitors can trace the history of Augusta’s connection to America’s Revolutionary roots and its growth into a military and now an educational powerhouse.

Check Destination Augusta’s America 250 calendar frequently throughout 2026 as new events are regularly being added.  
 

Explore the Augusta Riverwalk 

A Walkable, Waterfront District Full of Charm 

The Augusta Riverwalk is one of the city’s most beloved scenic and cultural destinations. Multilevel brick pathways hug the Savannah River, providing shady spots to relax, and easy access to some of Augusta’s top attractions. Stroll past splashing fountains and playgrounds, peaceful gardens tucked between overlooks, and the Augusta Sculpture Trail with its 15 sculptures by renowned national artists. 

While on the Augusta Riverwalk, stop at the Morris Museum of Art to explore the thousands of artwork pieces from the 19th century to modern day. And don’t miss the Augusta Museum of History with exhibits including a 1700s locomotive and a tribute to the legendary “Godfather of Soul” James Brown.  

The Augusta Riverfront Marina is a must-stop for guests who love kayaking or paddleboard! Here, guests will find outfitters Paddle Augusta offering kayaks for rent as well as guided paddleboarding.

Downtown Augusta’s Best Spots for Dining, Shopping & Culture 

Just a few blocks from the Riverwalk, Downtown Augusta’s dining scene delivers big flavors! Indulge in seasonally-inspired New American dishes and an impressive wine list at Frog Hollow Tavern, or enjoy Southern comfort classics and towering desserts at The Boll Weevil Café & Sweetery. Whiskey Bar (Kitchen) offers a menu of New American/Asian Fusion favorites and a standout whiskey selection. Craft & Vine’s menu is filled with stylish small plates and cocktails in a modern speakeasy setting. Augusta’s first vegan fresh-pressed juice bar, The Treehouse, serves organic vegetarian fare and is home to the African-centered Treehouse Art Gallery. Known for their margaritas, Sole Augusta delivers sushi, tapas, and burgers. 

Indulge in a little retail therapy at the eclectic mix of shops that fill Downtown Augusta. Whether seeking candles, bicycles, books, records, flowers, souvenirs, locally-distilled spirits, and much more, shoppers will find a vast array of goods awaiting them. 

One of downtown’s most distinctive new experiences is Bots on Broad. Visitors can partake in a playful and walkable scavenger hunt, searching downtown business windows for the 8” tall Tommy Robot sculptures designed by Augusta artist Leonard “Porkchop” Zimmerman. 
 

After-Hours Fun in Augusta 

Evening Experiences 

The folks in Augusta keep the energy going long after the sun goes down. Just check out the mix of laidback lounges, lively bars, and creative late-night experiences. Or head to Dahman’s Revenge Rage Room or Broad Axe Throwing Club, where travelers can blow off steam! Whether spending the evening swaying to live music, sipping a cocktail at a rooftop nightspot, or strolling along Broad Street, Augusta never fails to turn a simple night out into something memorable.

Start Planning Your Visit to Augusta, Georgia Today! 

Whether looking for a meaningful place to reflect on the country’s Revolutionary roots or simply wanting to enjoy a scenic and walkable downtown filled with culture, cuisine, and memorable experiences, visitors will find no shortage of things to do in Augusta, Georgia. Start planning your trip to Augusta today… and don’t forget to download your America 250 Augusta History Trail Pass to help you get started.