The Ultimate Solo Traveler’s Guide to Augusta

There’s something exciting about just you, a new city, and the freedom to explore however you want. And in Augusta, you can wander into Civil War history, stroll along the Riverwalk, or kayak down the Savannah River, all in one trip. It’s welcoming, walkable, and full of adventure.

So whether you’re crossing something off your bucket list or simply enjoying your own company for a few days, solo travel in Augusta might be the getaway you didn’t know you needed.

Why Augusta Is Perfect for Solo Travel 

Traveling solo can feel intimidating, but not in Augusta.  

Between its Southern charm and friendly locals, striking up a conversation comes easy. Grab a coffee at any of our coffee shops, browse the shelves at Book Tavern, or settle into a patio downtown, and you can be as social, or as solo, as you want to be. 

It’s also a city that’s safe and easy to explore, especially around downtown and the historic districts, where many of the best restaurants, galleries, and attractions are close together, well-trafficked, and easy to navigate on foot. 

The Augusta Riverwalk stretches along the Savannah River, and it’s the perfect place to relax, reflect, and take in the scenery. Whether you’re watching the water or admiring public art, it’s a reminder that traveling isn’t always about doing more.
 

Best Things to Do Alone 

One of the best parts of solo travel is getting to do exactly what you want, when you want. Phinizy Swamp Nature Park is a great place to start, especially if you’re looking for a little quiet and a little adventure. Walk the boardwalks, keep an eye out for gators, and take in the birds, turtles, and other wildlife all around you. 

If the goal is getting out and being more active, floating down the Augusta Canal or paddling with Paddle Augusta is a great way to do it. Being out on the water gives you a whole new view of the city, and it’s a great way to slow down and just be in the moment. For something even more unforgettable, book a tour with Cole Watkins Tours and paddle out to Stallings Island, where you can feed the island’s famous wild donkeys.

Deep and Personal 

For a bit of history, the Augusta Museum of History is definitely worth the stop. Take your time moving through exhibits, dig into Augusta’s past, and check out the James Brown collection while you’re there. Before you leave downtown, snap a selfie in front of the larger-than-life James Brown mural for a fun photo op. The Morris Museum of Art is another great stop, focused on Southern art. 

Walking tours are a great way to get your steps in while learning a little along the way. You’ll pass historic homes, hidden corners, and stories you’d probably miss on your own. Join Augusta Adventure Tours for a haunted history walk through downtown or one of their other themed tours for a glimpse into the city’s past. 

Then there’s Pexcho’s, America’s last Dime Museum, it’s packed with oddities, vintage artifacts, and enough weird stuff to make it one of the most memorable stops. 

And when you’re ready to slow things all the way down, Sól Himalayan Salt Cave & Spa is totally worth it. Whether you book time in the salt cave or a massage, it’s a great way to work a little self-care into your solo trip.

Dining for One 

Eating alone gets a bad rap, but honestly, it can be one of the best parts of solo travel. No debating where to go and no rushing through a meal. 

Start your morning at Buona Caffe or Trellis Coffee Bar, where you can grab a latte, a pastry, and take your time planning the day ahead. 

When it’s time to eat, downtown Augusta has plenty of restaurants that’ll satisfy any craving. Grab a seat at the Frog Hollow Tavern and enjoy their famous fried green tomatoes, chow down at Tacocat with street tacos and queso, or keep it classy with charcuterie and a glass of wine at Craft & Vine. 

And if you want to try a bit of everything, the Bites on Broad Foodie Trot is worth booking. This walking tour takes you through Downtown Augusta with stops at four local restaurants along the way, so you can sample some of the city’s best bites and meet great people while exploring Broad Street.

Solo Nightlife and Live Music 

Whether you’re in the mood for live music, a good drink, or just a laid-back place to hang out, Augusta has plenty of ways to spend the night. 

Downtown is great because there are so many bars, breweries, and music spots all within walking distance. Fox’s Lair is a hidden speakeasy that hosts open mics on Thursday nights and live music Tuesday through Saturday. You can also grab a beer at Savannah River Brewing Co., catch themed DJ nights at SoulBar, or settle in at Stillwater Taproom for live music ranging from rock and roll, jazz, or blues. 

If you want to keep the night going, Chevy’s Nite Club is one of Augusta’s go-to spots for dancing, live DJs, and a bigger crowd, while Dirty Boots Augusta keeps things lively with a laid-back atmosphere and plenty of room to kick back with friends. 

And if a quieter night sounds even better, you can’t beat a stroll along the Augusta Riverwalk. The lights reflecting off the Savannah River, boats drifting by, and the sound of the water make it easy to clear your head and take in the city at night.

Safe and Stylish Places to Stay 

Augusta has plenty of places to stay, and we all know where you book can make a big difference when you’re traveling solo. Staying downtown or near the historic district puts you close to the Riverwalk, restaurants, coffee shops, and many of the city’s top attractions, so getting around is easy and stress-free. 

The Augusta Marriott at the Convention Center is one of the most convenient options, sitting right on the Riverwalk and within walking distance of downtown dining and nightlife. If you want something with a little more history and charm, The Partridge Inn Augusta, Curio Collection by Hilton offers rooftop views, classic Southern style, and easy access to the city’s historic neighborhoods. 

For something more boutique, The Queen Anne Inn is perfect. Set inside a restored Victorian mansion, it’s full of character, from antique details and cozy rooms to wraparound porches and a quiet courtyard. It’s peaceful and a little removed from the busier parts of downtown.

A 2 Day Solo Itinerary 

Some of us aren’t planners, but if you like having a rough idea of where to start, here’s a simple two-day itinerary to help you map things out. 

Day One 

Check into your hotel and go grab coffee at Buona Caffe. Spend the rest of the morning walking the Augusta Riverwalk, taking in the river views. In the afternoon, stop by the Augusta Museum of History, then grab dinner at Frog Hollow Tavern. End the night with live music at Fox’s Lair or a quiet walk back along the Riverwalk. 

Day Two 

Start with breakfast downtown, then book a paddle with Paddle Augusta or Cole Watkins Tours, or spend the morning at Phinizy Swamp Nature Park looking for wildlife. Grab lunch, wander through shops, and fit in a walking tour or a stop at Pexcho’s before calling it a day. 
 

Start Planning Your Solo Getaway 

If you’re looking for adventure, good food, or a little time to yourself, Augusta is one of those solo travel destinations that has it all. Start building your trip with Visit Augusta’s trip planner.