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A Weekend in the Feel Good City

 

Words by Ashley Locke
Photos Provided by Visit Augusta

Every great girls’ getaway starts with a group text, a few calendar holds, and one person bold enough to say: “Let’s just go.” If your crew’s been looking for a weekend that is equal parts laid-back and leveled up, it’s time to put Augusta, Georgia, on your radar. Just a short drive from cities like Atlanta, Columbia, or Charleston, this artsy, food-loving city is the perfect mix of Southern soul and big-city energy—with just enough grit to keep things interesting.

Check In & Chill Out

The weekend begins with a check-in at The Partridge Inn. This historic beauty in the Summerville neighborhood has been recently renovated, and it shows—in the best way. Think: old-school charm meets rooftop cocktails. Drop your bags, grab a glass of wine at Six South Rooftop Bar (yes, that view is real), and toast to a weekend that’s already off to a solid start.

Start Your Day Sunny-Side Up

No girls’ trip is complete without a standout brunch, and The Brunch House of Augusta is the move. This downtown spot is known for doing Southern breakfast right: strawberry-stuffed French toast, chicken and waffles, cheesy grits—comfort food that hits like a hug from your best friend. It’s the kind of place where nobody orders the same thing, and everyone shares a bite.

After brunch, stroll downtown and grab a second cup at New Moon Café. The house-roasted beans and scratch-made pastries are reason enough to visit, but their upbeat vibe and colorful artwork make it a local favorite. If you’re lucky, there might even be a pop-up happening on the sidewalk out front.

It’s a breath of fresh air—and just the right mix of active and easygoing. 

Walk, Shop, Repeat

Ready to move? Walk off brunch with a scenic loop along the Augusta Riverwalk, then head over to Artists Row to check out the galleries and murals that bring Broad Street to life. Don’t miss Freshwater Curated Goods—a creative shop that mixes handmade goods with local flair—and Grantski Records, where flipping through vintage vinyl somehow turns into an hour-long adventure.

If you’re more into exploring than spending, grab a rental bike and cruise the Augusta Canal Trail.

Sip & Savor

Once the golden hour hits, it’s time to hop between some of Augusta’s best food and drink spots. Kick things off at Solé Augusta with sushi or tapas and drinks on the patio. Then, make your way to Craft & Vine for an elevated dinner experience. Hidden behind an unassuming Broad Street entrance, this speakeasy-style gem serves wood-fired pizzas, gourmet small plates, and some of the best cocktails in town. Pro tip: Ask your server for their favorite off-menu pairing.

For dessert, head to The Boll Weevil Cafe & Sweetery in Downtown Augusta. This former cotton warehouse turned café has sandwiches, soups, and a list of desserts that will make you skip dinner. Whether you’re team Blueberries and Cream Cheesecake or Key Lime Pie, you’ll leave happier than you arrived.

Pour One Up

If the night’s still young (and let’s be honest, it is), you’ve got two solid options: Indian Queen or Savannah River Brewing Company.

Indian Queen is a beloved neighborhood bar with a little bit of everything—cozy booths, outdoor seating, cold drinks, and an energy that’s both familiar and fun. Meanwhile, Savannah River Brewing Company offers craft beer and a dog-friendly patio that feels like hanging out at your coolest friend’s place.

Either way, you’ll end the night with good conversation, new memories, and maybe even a spontaneous group selfie you’ll later turn into a group chat meme.

Sunday Slowdown

Before you hit the road, swing by Pineapple Ink Tavern for brunch. This low-key spot has been serving Cuban fare to Downtown Augusta, and their new brunch menu is already legendary. It’s the perfect fuel for the drive home—and a good excuse to keep the weekend going just a little longer.

So, the next time you’re planning a girls’ getaway, skip the big-city frenzy and come see what Augusta’s got going on. From rooftop drinks to riverside trails, this is one trip where the vibe is just right, the food is always good, and the memories come easy.

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