Day Trips around Augusta, GA

While Augusta has a lot to offer, one of the best parts about living in the Central Savannah River Region (CSRA) is the proximity to so many amazing towns and cities! Boarding South Carolina and Georgia, there’s no shortage of places to visit. If you’re wanting to explore somewhere new, look no further! Below is a list of our favorite day trips around Augusta, GA. 

Washington, GA (50 minutes)

This quaint town located in-between Augusta and Athens sometimes gets overlooked for the bigger cities. But those who know about the hidden gem full of small town charm certainly never forget about it! Take a walk through the beautiful downtown square and visit The Washington Collective to enjoy some shopping, or grab a bite to eat at The Hot Box or Maddy’s Public House.

Then take a drive to look at the beautiful and historic mansions and plantations that are peppered throughout Washington. They also have fun things to do with the whole family, like visiting the Callaway Plantation and the Washington Historical Museum. 

Aiken, SC (30 minutes)

Nestled between Augusta and Columbia, Aiken is a quickly-growing city that truly has something for everyone. Downtown Aiken is pedestrian friendly and bustling with locally-owned shops and delicious restaurants. While you’re downtown, be sure to check out The Alley and snap a pic of the famed gate!

If you’re interested in history, look no further than one of the several museums, the historic library, or a trolley tour. If the great outdoors are what you’re in search of, their parks are immaculately landscaped and overflowing with historic trees and beautiful plants. Aiken is also home to the Hitchcock Woods, known for its beautiful horseback riding trails! 

Clarks Hill Lake (25 minutes)

If you’re looking to escape the city life, look no further than Clarks Hill Lake. Boarding both Georgia and South Carolina, the area is perfect for swimming, hiking, boating, fishing and more. If you’re looking for a more guided experience, check out Mistletoe State Park, where you can rent canoes for the day and then pitch a tent and enjoy camping on one of their campsites!

If you’re looking for something a little less outdoorsy while still being at the lake, try Columbia County’s Glamping experience while you’re there! 

If you’re heading out to enjoy Clarks Hill Lake, but don’t want your entire day to consist of water sports, take some time to explore the neighboring city of Appling, GA! Take in the town’s history by visiting the oldest courthouse in Georgia, or check out Wildwood Park, home of the Professional Disk Golf Association that boasts of three disc golf courses!

Also take some time to explore the beautiful Heggie’s Rock Preserve, a 130-acre granite outcrop featuring soil islands and dish gardens. 

Edgefield, SC (30 minutes)

Edgefield is a bustling town just a 30 minute drive from Augusta. Their downtown Courthouse Square will transport you back in time with a beautiful greenway in the middle, and lots of local shops and restaurants surrounding it. Be sure to grab lunch at Augusta & House, and then dessert at Edgefield creamery after! If you’re looking for something unique to do, visit the historic Old Edgefield Pottery, which has produced pottery for over 200 years! See pottery being made and explore the rich history of pottery in Edgefield at their museum. You can also explore a number of other historic sites around the city. 

If you’re itching to get out of town and looking for more than just a day trip, stay tuned for our next blog post featuring the best weekend getaways around Augusta!