Forget everything you think you know about winter travel. Augusta, Georgia, offers a different kind of seasonal magic.
We’re talking about crisp river walks under sunny skies, vibrant cultural scenes that heat up when the temperature drops, and a welcoming energy that feels like a cozy sweater for your soul.
Get ready to discover a side of the South that truly shines in the cooler months.
This is your exclusive guide to the very best of the “Garden City” in winter, packed with places that turn a simple trip into an unforgettable story. Let’s dive into the 14 best places that make Augusta a must-visit winter destination.
1. Augusta Museum of History
Kicking off your winter visit at the Augusta Museum of History is like finding the master key to the city. This place holds over 12,000 years of stories, and exploring it on a chilly day is the perfect indoor adventure.
You can walk through time, from ancient indigenous history right up to the city’s modern legends. A major highlight is their collection of memorabilia from Augusta’s very own “Godfather of Soul,” James Brown.
During the winter season, the museum often hosts special events that add an extra layer of fun. One you won’t want to miss is their annual Holiday Gingerbread Village exhibit.
Imagine intricate gingerbread creations designed to look like historic Augusta buildings—it’s a sweet, festive twist on learning local history. Spending a few hours here gives you the context and appreciation that will make every other stop on your trip even more meaningful.
2. The Morris Museum of Art
Need a beautiful dose of culture to warm up your day? The Morris Museum of Art is your sanctuary.
As the oldest museum in the entire country dedicated solely to the art and artists of the American South, it’s a truly unique treasure. With nearly 5,000 pieces in its collection, the walls are lined with stories, landscapes, and portraits that capture the region’s spirit.
Winter is an especially engaging time to visit. The museum often runs special workshops, like their “Create with Me! Gingerbread Dream Decorating” session, which is a fantastic, hands-on activity for families or anyone feeling crafty.
It’s more than just looking at paintings; it’s about feeling connected to the creative heartbeat of the South. The museum’s calm, contemplative atmosphere provides a wonderful escape from the seasonal rush.
3. Augusta Riverwalk
Don’t let a little cool air keep you from one of Augusta’s crown jewels. The Augusta Riverwalk is stunning year-round, and a winter stroll here is refreshingly peaceful.
This multi-level park stretches along the Savannah River, connecting beautiful gardens, cozy amphitheaters, and scenic overlooks. Without the summer humidity, you can enjoy a longer, more comfortable walk while taking in the views.
Bundle up in your favorite jacket, grab a hot coffee from a nearby shop, and wander the paved paths. You’ll see the city from a beautiful perspective, and the winter light makes for fantastic photos, especially in the late afternoon.
It’s the ideal place to walk off a big lunch or simply breathe in some fresh air between other activities. This is a quintessential Augusta experience that proves outdoor fun doesn’t end in the fall.
4. The Partridge Inn Augusta, Curio Collection by Hilton
You don’t have to spend the night to experience the iconic charm of The Partridge Inn (though you’ll probably want to!).
Perched in the historic Summerville neighborhood, this hotel is a local landmark recently renovated with beautiful style. In the winter, its classic Southern porch and elegant lobby become the coziest spots to relax.
Pop in to warm up by the fireplace and imagine the generations of travelers who have passed through its doors. The ambiance is pure, timeless hospitality.
It’s a wonderful place to plan your day’s adventures over a warm beverage or to simply soak in the historic atmosphere. A visit here feels like stepping into a warmer, more gracious era, making it a perfect pit stop during your winter exploration of Augusta.
5. Lucy Craft Laney Museum of Black History
For a powerful and important look into Augusta’s heritage, the Lucy Craft Laney Museum of Black History is an essential stop. It stands as the only museum in the Augusta River Region dedicated to preserving and sharing African American history and culture.
Housed in the former home of the pioneering educator Lucy Craft Laney, the experience is both intimate and inspiring.
The museum offers guided tours and rotating exhibits that provide deep insight into the community’s profound impact on the city and the nation. Visiting in the winter allows for thoughtful, unrushed reflection away from the crowds.
It’s a moving and educational experience that adds essential depth to your understanding of Augusta’s soulful story. You’ll leave with a greater appreciation for the figures who shaped this city.
6. Boyhood Home of President Woodrow Wilson
History buffs, this one’s for you. Tucked away in Augusta is the carefully preserved boyhood home of President Woodrow Wilson.
He lived in this very house for the longest period he stayed anywhere in his youth, from 1860 to 1870. Taking a guided tour on a crisp winter day makes the past feel incredibly vivid.
As you walk through the rooms, you can almost hear the echoes of a future president’s childhood. Special holiday events, like themed tours, sometimes offer a glimpse into 19th-century seasonal traditions.
It’s a fascinating, off-the-beaten-path site that feels like a secret discovery. This isn’t just a museum; it’s a tangible connection to a pivotal figure in American history, right here in Augusta.
7. Shop Local at Augusta & Co. and Broad Street
Winter is the perfect season for finding unique gifts, and Augusta’s local shopping scene is a dream. Your first stop should be Augusta & Co., the city’s official visitor center and a fantastic curated market.
Especially in mid-December, they host the Mistletoe Market, a pop-up shopping experience featuring local artisans, makers, and food vendors. It’s a one-stop shop for gifts you simply can’t find anywhere else.
From there, take a stroll down historic Broad Street. You’ll find a delightful mix of boutiques, like Tire City Potters for handmade ceramics and Augusta Candle Co. for lovely scents.
Shopping local here means you’re taking home a piece of Augusta’s creative spirit while supporting the small businesses that give the city its character. It’s a rewarding and warm way to spend a winter afternoon.
8. Savor Plant-Based Flavors at SolFood Kitchen
Augusta’s food scene is full of delightful surprises, especially for plant-based eaters. SolFood Kitchen is a community-driven cafe that turns vegetarian and vegan dining into a celebration.
Their menu bursts with bold, bright flavors and focuses on locally sourced ingredients. Think of it as Southern hospitality meets creative, health-conscious cuisine.
On a cold day, their hearty, farm-to-table dishes are incredibly satisfying. It’s the kind of meal that makes you feel good inside and out.
Whether you’re a dedicated vegan or just looking to try something fresh and delicious, SolFood proves that eating your veggies is anything but boring. It’s a warm, welcoming spot that reflects the modern, innovative side of Augusta’s culinary landscape.
9. Experience a Rage Room at Dahman’s Revenge
Got some winter blues or just need to shake off the cold with something wildly fun? Dahman’s Revenge Rage Room is Augusta’s first and only rage room, and it’s an absolute blast.
The concept is simple, cathartic, and strangely genius: suit up in protective gear and safely smash breakable items like plates, glass, and electronics to your heart’s content.
They even have glow-in-the-dark rage rooms and private karaoke suites for a full stress-relief experience. It’s a surprisingly fantastic group activity—perfect for families with older kids or friends looking for an unforgettable laugh.
This is not your typical tourist attraction. It’s a hilariously physical and totally unique way to burn energy and create a wild winter memory you’ll be talking about for years.
10. Find Cozy Comfort at Humanitree House
Combining the vibes of a juice bar, an art gallery, and a cozy community hangout, Humanitree House is a uniquely Augusta gem.
This spot is 100% vegan and focuses on fresh, organic, and creatively presented food and drinks. On a chilly day, stepping inside feels like a warm hug.
You can enjoy everything from robust cold-pressed juices to comforting homemade vegan chili or burgers. The atmosphere is eclectic, friendly, and filled with local art.
It’s the ideal place to refuel after a morning of sightseeing, catch up on some reading, or just enjoy a quiet moment with a fantastic meal. Humanitree House shows just how vibrant and welcoming the city’s plant-based community truly is.
11. Get Active with Axe Throwing at Broad Axe Throwing
When you want an activity that’s equal parts thrilling and cozy, head indoors to Broad Axe Throwing.
Located right on Broad Street, this venue lets you try your hand at the trending sport of axe throwing in a safe, controlled, and super fun environment. Their certified “Axe-perts” are there to guide you, ensuring you learn the technique and stick your target like a pro.
There’s something incredibly fun and strangely satisfying about the thud of an axe hitting the wooden target. It’s a fantastic way to spend a winter evening with friends or family, laughing and cheering each other on.
You don’t need to be strong or athletic to enjoy it—just willing to try something new and incredibly cool. It’s an active, engaging experience that beats just sitting in a restaurant.
12. Explore the Quirky Pexcho’s American Dime Museum
Ready for something completely different? Pexcho’s American Dime Museum is a delightful dive into the weird and wonderful.
This museum is a recreation of the classic late 19th and early 20th-century “dime museums,” which were filled with curiosities, oddities, and exhibits designed to amaze and entertain—think strong P.T. Barnum vibes.
It’s a Cabinet of Curiosities come to life, packed with high entertainment value for the whole family. On a winter day, exploring this collection of the strange, rare, and fascinating is a guaranteed adventure.
You’ll see things you won’t find anywhere else, sparking imagination and conversation. It’s a testament to Augusta’s eclectic and playful side.
13. Enjoy Global Cuisine at Laziza Mediterranean Grill
Sometimes winter calls for food that is bright, flavorful, and soul-warming. Laziza Mediterranean Grill answers that call perfectly.
With a location on bustling Broad Street, this restaurant serves up vibrant, customizable Mediterranean dishes that are a feast for the senses.
You can build a plate or bowl with fresh, flavorful options like hummus, falafel, grilled vegetables, and savory rice. The food is hearty, healthy, and incredibly satisfying on a cool day.
The atmosphere is warm and inviting, making it a great spot for a leisurely lunch or a relaxed dinner. It’s a wonderful example of how Augusta’s dining scene offers delicious escapes to far-off places without ever leaving the city.
14. Take a Winter Walk at the Augusta Canal
End your winter visit with a breath of fresh air along the Augusta Canal. This National Heritage Area is a beautiful place for a peaceful walk or bike ride.
The winter landscape along the canal has a quiet, stark beauty, and the historic industrial buildings take on a different character against the winter sky.
You can start at the Augusta Canal Discovery Center to learn how this waterway powered the city’s industrial growth. Then, head out on the towpath for a scenic stroll alongside the calm water.
It’s a serene and active way to connect with nature and history simultaneously. This peaceful setting is the perfect note to end your Augusta winter adventure on—calm, beautiful, and deeply refreshing.
Conclusion
As you can see, winter in Augusta, Georgia, isn’t about hiding from the cold—it’s about discovering a city that’s vibrant, welcoming, and full of life in every season.
From world-class museums and historic homes to thrilling axe throwing and a phenomenal food scene, your itinerary will be packed with unique experiences.
So, what are you waiting for? The Garden City is ready to show you its winter charm.
Start planning your trip today, check for seasonal hours and events, and get ready to make some fantastic cold-weather memories. Your cozy, exciting, and uniquely Southern winter getaway is just a visit away.