How Far Is Augusta from Atlanta? A Local’s Guide to Distance, Drive Time, and Getting There

If you’re in Atlanta, Georgia and planning a trip to Augusta, the first thing you probably want to know is how far it is and how long it actually takes to get there. Whether you’re going for the Masters Tournament, visiting family, or planning a quick day trip from Atlanta, understanding the route, drive time, and transportation options helps you plan with confidence.

The Basics: Distance from Atlanta to Augusta

From Downtown Atlanta to Downtown Augusta:

• Approximate distance:145–150 miles
• Primary route:I-20 East
• Typical drive time:2 to 2.5 hours, depending on traffic and exact starting point

Most people in Atlanta take Interstate 20 East almost the entire way, which makes the trip straightforward and mostly highway driving.

Driving from Atlanta to Augusta

Main Route: I-20 East

For most travelers starting anywhere inside the Perimeter (I-285), the standard route is:

1. Get onto I-20 East (via Downtown Connector, I-285, or local interchanges).
2. Stay on I-20 East for roughly 130 miles.
3. Take exits into Augusta based on your destination (Downtown, Augusta University, medical district, or residential areas).

You’ll pass or be near areas like Conyers, Covington, and Madison before you reach the Augusta area.

How Long Does the Drive Take?

Typical one-way drive time:

• Light traffic (off-peak, weekends, early mornings): about 2 hours
• Normal daytime traffic: about 2–2.25 hours
• Heavy traffic (weekday rush hours, holiday weekends, big Atlanta events): up to 2.5–3 hours

Factors that can add time:

• Rush hour around Downtown Atlanta, I-285, and interchanges like I-75/85
• Construction zones on I-20
• Weather (heavy rain can slow traffic significantly)

If you need to arrive at a specific time in Augusta—such as for a tee time, medical appointment, or event—build in at least 30–45 minutes of buffer when leaving Atlanta.

Quick Distance & Travel Time Overview

These are general estimates based on typical routes via I-20 East.

Best Times to Drive from Atlanta to Augusta

If you’re flexible, timing your departure can make the trip smoother and faster.

When to Leave Atlanta

Generally easier times:

• Mid-morning: around 10 a.m. – 11 a.m.
• Early afternoon: around 1 p.m. – 3 p.m.
• Weekend mornings: before 10 a.m.

Times to avoid if possible:

• Weekday mornings: roughly 6:30 a.m. – 9:00 a.m. (Atlanta rush hour)
• Weekday evenings: roughly 3:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
• Major event days around Downtown, Mercedes-Benz Stadium, State Farm Arena, or college games that can back up freeway access

If you’re heading to the Masters Tournament, expect extra congestion around Augusta, and consider adding at least an extra hour to your planning from Atlanta.

Transportation Options from Atlanta to Augusta

While driving is the most common way to get from Atlanta to Augusta, it’s not the only option.

1. Driving Yourself

Most Atlanta residents and visitors choose to:

• Use their own vehicle
• Rent a car from the airport area or in-town locations
• Use a car share or traditional rental for a day or weekend

Pros:

• Full control over your schedule
• Easy to stop for food, gas, or breaks
• Straightforward route via I-20 East

Cons:

• You handle all driving fatigue and navigation
• You’re responsible for parking in Augusta (especially during big events)

2. Bus Service

There is typically intercity bus service between the Atlanta area and Augusta. Buses commonly depart from:

• Downtown Atlanta area (near major bus terminals)
• Sometimes near Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport

Travelers from Atlanta often find bus service to:

• Be slower than driving (often 3+ hours with stops)
• Require set departure and arrival times
• Be a practical option if you prefer not to drive

It can be helpful to:

• Arrive at the bus station early
• Plan local transportation in Augusta (rideshares, taxis, or local transit)

3. Flying from Atlanta to Augusta

Both cities have airports:

• Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL)
  • 6000 N Terminal Pkwy, Atlanta, GA 30320
• Augusta Regional Airport (AGS)
  • 1501 Aviation Way, Augusta, GA 30906

There are often short regional flights between Atlanta and Augusta, frequently used by:

• Business travelers
• Passengers connecting through Atlanta to other destinations

However, for an Atlanta-based traveler going only to Augusta:

• Gate-to-gate flight time is usually under 1 hour
• Total door-to-door time (check-in, security, boarding, deplaning) often equals or exceeds driving time

Flying may be worth considering if:

• You’re already connecting through ATL
• You’re coordinating with longer multi-city itineraries

Planning a Day Trip vs. Overnight from Atlanta

Because Augusta is only about 2 hours away, many Atlantans use it for quick getaways.

Day Trip Feasibility

A same-day round trip Atlanta → Augusta → Atlanta is realistic if you:

• Leave Atlanta in the morning
• Spend 4–6 hours in Augusta
• Drive back in the late afternoon or evening

This can work well for:

• Golf or outdoor recreation
• Visiting friends or family
• Brief sightseeing or campus visits (such as Augusta University)

When an Overnight Stay Makes Sense

Consider staying overnight in Augusta if:

• You’re attending early-morning or late-evening events
• You’re going to the Masters or another major tournament
• You’re traveling with young children or older adults and want less time on the road

What to Expect Along the Route from Atlanta

The trip from Atlanta to Augusta along I-20 East is mostly interstate driving with some small-city and rural stretches.

Road Conditions & Services

Along the way you’ll typically find:

• Multiple gas stations at major exits
• Fast food and casual restaurants near cities like Conyers, Covington, and Madison
• Restroom stops at highway exits and some rest areas

Tips to make the drive smoother:

• 🚗 Fuel up before leaving the Atlanta metro or early along I-20
• 🍔 Plan a quick meal stop in the mid-point area if traveling with kids
• 📱 Check a traffic or maps app for incidents before you get on I-20

From Atlanta Airport to Augusta

If you’re flying into Atlanta and then heading directly to Augusta:

Distance & Time

• Distance from ATL to Augusta: roughly 155–160 miles
• Typical drive time: about 2.25–2.5 hours via I-285 to I-20 East

Typical Steps

1. Land at Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL)
2. Pick up a rental car from the airport rental center (accessed via the ATL SkyTrain)
3. Drive via I-285 to I-20 East
4. Follow I-20 East to Augusta

This is a common pattern for visitors who use Atlanta as a major flight hub but are ultimately staying or working in the Augusta area.

Atlanta to Augusta: Key Takeaways

• Distance: Around 145–150 miles from Downtown Atlanta to Downtown Augusta
• Main Route:I-20 East almost the entire way
• Drive Time: Generally 2 to 2.5 hours, longer during heavy traffic or major events
• Best Option for Most Travelers:Driving is usually the fastest and most flexible way for Atlanta-based trips
• Other Options: Intercity bus service and short flights exist, but often make more sense for specific situations (like connections or travelers without access to a car)

For anyone living in Atlanta, visiting the city, or passing through Hartsfield–Jackson, Augusta is close enough to be a practical day trip or easy weekend destination, as long as you plan around traffic and give yourself a comfortable travel window.