TL;DR: Augusta sits on the Savannah River with easy day trips in every direction: horse-country Aiken, South Carolina’s capital Columbia, Lake Thurmond boating, and historic Washington, Georgia. Savannah is the long day, worth it for first-timers.
Augusta’s position on the Georgia-South Carolina line makes it a strong day-trip base. Cross the river for North Augusta’s Greeneway, drive 30 minutes to Aiken’s horse country, or head an hour to Columbia’s museums and riverfront. Lake Thurmond offers boating close to home, while Athens and Savannah reward longer drives with college-town energy and coastal history. These eight trips are all within about two and a half hours, with most under 90 minutes.
1. North Augusta, South Carolina
North Augusta, just across the Savannah River, offers the Greeneway, a scenic trail of more than 7 miles through the city, plus Riverside Village shops and restaurants, Brick Pond Park wildlife, and the Arts and Heritage Center. It is the easiest escape from Augusta and a favorite for a slow, green day.
2. Aiken, South Carolina
Aiken, about 30 minutes northeast, is a charming horse town with historic homes, gardens, and the Aiken Thoroughbred Racing Hall of Fame. Its downtown of boutiques and restaurants makes it a classic half-day trip.
3. Columbia, South Carolina
Columbia, about an hour northeast, is South Carolina’s capital, with the State Museum, Riverbanks Zoo and Garden, and riverfront parks on the Congaree River. It is the best city day trip from Augusta, with museums, dining, and a lively college-town feel from the University of South Carolina.
4. Lake Thurmond
Lake Thurmond, also called Clarks Hill Lake, about 45 minutes north, is a huge reservoir on the Savannah River with boating, fishing, camping, and lakeside parks. It is the easiest outdoor day trip from Augusta, especially in summer.
5. Athens, Georgia
Athens, about 90 minutes west, is a vibrant college town home to the University of Georgia, with a famous music scene, a walkable downtown, and the State Botanical Garden. It is a full-day trip for music lovers and food lovers alike.
6. Washington, Georgia
Washington, about 45 minutes west, is a historic town with well-kept antebellum homes, the Robert Toombs House, and a quiet downtown. It offers a step back in time without a long drive.
7. Savannah Rapids Park
Savannah Rapids Park, on the Savannah River near Martinez, covers 33 acres with the historic Augusta Canal headgates, a 7.5-mile trail to Augusta, and kayaking on the river. It is a quick, scenic outing close to the city.
8. Savannah, Georgia
Savannah, about two and a half hours southeast, is the long day trip, with cobblestone streets, Spanish moss, Forsyth Park, and a waterfront of restaurants and shops. It is best as an early-start day or an overnight, but first-timers will find the drive worth it.
What to Know Before You Choose
Summer heat makes lake and river trips best early in the day, and Savannah is far more enjoyable in spring or fall than in August. Check Riverbanks Zoo and State Museum hours before driving to Columbia, and book Athens restaurants on football weekends, when the town fills up. Keep North Augusta as your backup plan: it is close, green, and easy on any day.
Related reading on WagsWoofs: Where to live in Augusta, GA: 10 neighborhoods for 2026
Sources: Day trips from Augusta Best day trips from Augusta
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best day trip from Augusta?
Aiken is the best short trip, Columbia is the best city trip, and Lake Thurmond is the best outdoor trip. Savannah is the best long day for first-timers.
How far is Aiken from Augusta?
Aiken is about 30 minutes northeast of Augusta, making it an easy half-day trip.
Can you do Savannah in a day from Augusta?
Yes, but it is about two and a half hours each way, so start early or stay overnight to enjoy the city without rushing.
What is the Greeneway in North Augusta?
The Greeneway is a scenic trail of more than 7 miles through North Augusta, popular for walking and biking, with historical markers along the way.
Is Lake Thurmond good for boating?
Yes, Lake Thurmond is a large Savannah River reservoir with marinas, boat ramps, and lakeside parks for boating, fishing, and camping.
How far is Columbia from Augusta?
Columbia, South Carolina is about an hour northeast of Augusta, an easy day trip for museums, the zoo, and riverfront parks.
What is there to do in Washington, Georgia?
Washington offers historic homes, the Robert Toombs House, and a quiet downtown, making it a relaxing history day trip.
When is the best time for Augusta day trips?
Spring and fall offer the best weather for outdoor trips, while summer is best for Lake Thurmond and river activities.
