When it comes to meeting destinations in the Southeast, Augusta is raising the bar. With revitalized venues, new hotel options, a growing culinary scene bursting with Southern hospitality, and a downtown that’s as easy to navigate as it is to love, Augusta is a smart, flexible choice for meetings and events of all sizes.
Fresh Spaces & Big Plans: Augusta’s Meetings Scene Is Leveling Up
Downtown Augusta is about to welcome a major upgrade: a new entertainment complex, complete with new construction on the site of the James Brown Arena. Currently under construction, this 31,000-square-foot complex will feature an arena, exhibit hall, and customizable meeting rooms fit for classrooms, banquets, or receptions. Premium seating, luxury suites, and a club-level experience are all in the works, with an expected opening in 2027.
Even better, the new arena is part of a larger venue complex that includes the Bell Auditorium, which recently completed a $20 million renovation in 2024. The upgraded Bell Auditorium now features a larger lobby, revamped concession areas, state-of-the-art lighting and sound, and a VIP club. Once complete, both venues will be connected by an interior Great Hall, making it easy to move between sessions or networking events. Outside, a landscaped promenade set among green space will feature outdoor rooms and exterior projection screens for pre-function gatherings, business networking and entertainment.
New Stays & Renovated Favorites
Augusta also offers a fresh lineup of hotels, with options for every type of traveler and event. In downtown, Hyatt House provides 100 guest rooms and suites, a 24-hour fitness center, free WiFi, and complimentary breakfast. There’s also a 2,240-square-foot meeting room that can be subdivided for board meetings or executive retreats.
For longer stays or more space, Extended Stay America Premier Suites has just what you need. All rooms include full kitchens and free WiFi, and guests can enjoy the fitness center, on-site laundry facility, daily grab-and-go breakfast, and even an outdoor putting green. Another choice, TRU by Hilton Augusta Washington Road, opened its doors to guests this July. The hotel features 82 guest rooms and is designed for travelers who value efficiency, comfort, and a touch of fun. With modern guest rooms, 24/7 Eat. & Sip. Market, a well-equipped fitness center, and spacious lobby perfect for working or relaxing, TRU Augusta offers a fresh and spirited experience for every guest.
Looking for charm with a side of history? Recently renovated, The Partridge Inn delivers classic Southern style with modern amenities. With 143 guest rooms, two on-site restaurants (including a rooftop restaurant and bar), fitness center, robust meeting space (with six breakout rooms and an exhibit hall space), it’s an ideal base for groups seeking comfort and character.
New Additions to Augusta’s Culinary Scene
Augusta’s food scene is also expanding, with new restaurants giving meeting attendees plenty to talk about over dinner.
Fans of Tex-Mex can choose from street tacos, chalupas, enchiladas and more at El Paso Tacos & Tequila, while those looking for hearty Southern-style BBQ with an elevated twist should head to Fifth and Fire, which also has indoor-outdoor event space within walking distance from the Augusta Convention Center.
Need a morning boost or midday break? Stop by Relic Coffee Company, an Ecuadorian café and bakery serving up espresso drinks, flatbreads, sandwiches, smoothies, teas and sweet treats in a cozy setting.
Coming soon are two more dining experiences: Bradley’s BBQ, featuring slow-cooked barbecue and Emil’s, a new concept combining beer or coffee-friendly tapas in a laid-back setting.
Augusta’s Tried-and-True Appeal
New venues and restaurants aside, Augusta still delivers what meeting planners value most: walkability, affordability, and a warm, welcoming community. From downtown’s compact footprint to the city’s growing infrastructure and easy planning process, Augusta makes it simple to host successful meetings that feel both elevated and effortless.
Ready to plan your next meeting? Visit our Meetings blog for helpful planning resources, or reach out to schedule a site visit and explore how Augusta can elevate your next event.
