Atlanta, GA to Augusta, GA: Your Complete Guide to Making the Trip

Traveling from Atlanta, GA to Augusta, GA is one of the most common in-state trips for Atlanta residents. Whether you’re heading to Augusta for a golf tournament, a Savannah River weekend, Fort Eisenhower (formerly Fort Gordon), college visits at Augusta University, or to see family, the route is straightforward—but your options and timing can vary a lot depending on how you travel.

This guide walks you through every practical way to get from Atlanta to Augusta, with clear tips tailored specifically for people who live in or are visiting Atlanta.

How Far Is It from Atlanta to Augusta?

The distance and time depend on your starting point in Atlanta and your mode of transportation.

Driving distance and time

• Approximate distance:145–150 miles
• Typical drive time:2 to 2.5 hours in normal traffic
• Main route:I‑20 East almost the entire way

If you leave from Downtown Atlanta (near the Georgia State Capitol or Mercedes‑Benz Stadium), you’ll usually:

1. Get onto I‑20 East via the Downtown Connector (I‑75/85).
2. Stay on I‑20 East** for about 140 miles.
3. Take one of the Augusta exits (like Exit 195–199) depending on your specific destination.

For most Atlanta-area residents—from Buckhead, Decatur, East Atlanta, or Stone Mountain—I‑20 East is still the primary route.

Best Ways to Travel from Atlanta to Augusta

There are four main ways Atlanta travelers typically get to Augusta:

• Driving yourself
• Bus service
• Rideshare or private shuttle
• Limited flight or charter options

Below is a simple comparison:

Driving from Atlanta to Augusta

For most people in or around Atlanta, driving is the simplest and fastest way to get to Augusta.

Main driving route

The standard route from metro Atlanta is:

• I‑20 East all the way from Atlanta to Augusta.

Common Atlanta entry points onto I‑20 East:

• Downtown/Midtown: Use the Downtown Connector (I‑75/85) and follow signs to I‑20 East toward Augusta.
• Decatur/East Atlanta: Enter I‑20 East from Moreland Ave, Candler Rd, or Columbia Dr.
• Westside/Buckhead: Take surface streets or connector highways to reach I‑20 East via Downtown.

Once you’re on I‑20 East, you’ll pass:

• Conyers
• Covington
• Madison
• Greensboro
• Thomson

Then you’ll approach Augusta from the west.

Typical traffic patterns from Atlanta

Traffic leaving Atlanta can be very different depending on when you go:

• Morning rush (roughly 6:30–9:30 a.m.): Slower getting onto I‑20 from the city, especially near the Downtown Connector.
• Evening rush (roughly 3:30–7:00 p.m.): Expect congestion leaving central Atlanta and around interchanges.
• Once you’re about 30–40 miles east of the city, the drive generally becomes smoother and more consistent.

For the easiest trip, many Atlanta residents leave:

• Mid-morning (around 9:30–11:00 a.m.), or
• Early afternoon (around 1:30–3:00 p.m.)

Cost of driving from Atlanta to Augusta

Your costs will usually include:

• Gas: The trip is about 145–150 miles one way, so roughly 300 miles round trip.
  • A vehicle that averages 25–30 mpg will typically use around 10–12 gallons round trip.
• Tolls: There are no toll roads on the direct I‑20 route between Atlanta and Augusta.
• Parking in Augusta: Many areas have free parking (especially around suburban shops and some public facilities), but some hospitals, downtown spots, or event venues may charge.

💡 Tip for Atlanta drivers: If you’re leaving from Hartsfield‑Jackson Atlanta International Airport or the south side, consider taking I‑285 around to I‑20 East to avoid some inner-city congestion.

Taking a Bus from Atlanta to Augusta

If you don’t want to drive, intercity bus service between Atlanta and Augusta is often the next best option.

Where buses typically depart in Atlanta

Buses commonly use central or accessible locations such as:

• Downtown / Midtown Atlanta area
• Near major transit hubs where MARTA access is available

As an Atlanta-based traveler, you can often reach bus departures by:

• MARTA rail from stations like Five Points, Peachtree Center, or Garnett
• Local bus routes that feed into central areas

Before you go, check:

• Exact pick-up location
• Arrival spot in Augusta
• Baggage rules and schedule

What to expect from the bus ride

• Travel time: Usually 2.5 to 3.5 hours, depending on:
  • Number of stops
  • Traffic as you leave Atlanta
• Amenities may include:
  • Air conditioning
  • Reclining seats
  • Restroom on board (varies by operator)
• Pros for Atlanta riders:
  • No need to navigate I‑20 or find parking
  • You can read, work, or rest during the trip

For those staying near Downtown, Midtown, or the airport, buses can be especially convenient because you can combine them with MARTA or hotel shuttles.

Rideshare and Car Services: Atlanta to Augusta

People in Atlanta sometimes use rideshare (like app-based services) or private car services for the trip to Augusta, especially:

• For special events (e.g., Masters Tournament)
• When carpooling with a group
• When a traveler doesn’t drive but wants door-to-door service

Things to keep in mind

• Cost: Typically higher than bus or self-driving, but the price can be split among passengers.
• Pick-up flexibility: You can get picked up from:
  • Your home in Atlanta
  • Hartsfield‑Jackson Atlanta International Airport
  • A hotel in Midtown, Buckhead, Downtown, or near the airport
• Drop-off: Directly at your Augusta destination—hotel, home, base, or venue.

Before committing, Atlanta travelers usually:

• Check estimated fare for a one-way trip
• Confirm whether return trips from Augusta are easy to schedule at their desired time

Can You Fly from Atlanta to Augusta?

There is an airport in Augusta—Augusta Regional Airport (AGS)—and of course Hartsfield‑Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) in Atlanta. However, for most local travelers:

• Driving or bus is generally more practical and cost-effective.
• There may be limited or indirect flight options, and total travel time (including security and ground travel) often outweighs the benefit for such a short distance.

When flights or air charters might make sense

• Corporate travel when flights are included in a broader itinerary
• Private or charter flights for groups traveling on a tight schedule
• Special events where time is more critical than cost

For typical Atlanta-based residents going to Augusta for a weekend, family visit, or event, ground transportation remains the primary choice.

Key Landmarks and Destinations in Augusta for Atlanta Travelers

Knowing where you’re headed in Augusta can help you plan your route and timing from Atlanta.

Common destinations include:

Golf and big events

• Augusta National Golf Club – Famous for the Masters Tournament.
  • During Masters week, traffic near the club can be very heavy, and lodging fills up quickly, so many Atlanta residents:
    • Drive in very early on event days, or
    • Stay overnight in or near Augusta.

Military and government

• Fort Eisenhower (formerly Fort Gordon) – A major U.S. Army installation just southwest of central Augusta.
  • From Atlanta, you’ll generally follow I‑20 East and take exits serving the base area.
  • Allow extra time for:
    • Gate entry
    • Security procedures
    • Finding specific offices or barracks

Medical and university trips

• Augusta University and AU Health – A regional center for health and education.
  • Atlanta-area patients and students often travel here for:
    • Specialized appointments
    • Campus visits and orientation
• Hospitals and clinics: If you’re leaving from Atlanta for a scheduled appointment, build in:
  • Extra travel time in case of I‑20 traffic or Atlanta congestion
  • Time for parking and check-in once you arrive in Augusta

Practical Tips for Atlanta-to-Augusta Road Trips

A few Atlanta-specific tips can make your trip smoother and less stressful.

1. Picking the best departure time

From Atlanta, consider:

• Avoiding peak rush hours when merging onto I‑20:
  • Early morning: 6:30–9:30 a.m.
  • Late afternoon: 4:00–7:00 p.m.
• If you must travel at those times, allow an extra 30–45 minutes just for getting out of metro Atlanta.

2. Where to stop between Atlanta and Augusta

Some common stop areas along I‑20 East include:

• Conyers / Covington area: Food, fuel, and quick rest stops not far from Atlanta
• Madison: Small-town feel, gas, and snacks
• Greensboro / Lake Oconee area: Gas stations and food near the lake corridor
• Thomson: Another convenient refuel and restroom option before you reach Augusta

These stops work well if you:

• Are traveling with kids
• Need to stretch or switch drivers
• Want to break up the drive a bit

3. Weather and road considerations

From Atlanta to Augusta, you’re mainly on interstate highway, which is generally well maintained. Still:

• Summer storms: Sudden heavy rain can reduce visibility; slow down and use headlights.
• Winter cold snaps: Ice is less common but can occur, particularly on bridges and overpasses.
• Construction: Construction zones occasionally appear on I‑20 in the metro or between cities; watch for changing speed limits and lane shifts.

If you’re leaving from central Atlanta, consider checking:

• Local traffic updates before you get on I‑20
• Any major incidents around the Downtown Connector or I‑285 interchanges

Traveling from Hartsfield‑Jackson Atlanta International Airport to Augusta

If you’re flying into Atlanta and need to get directly to Augusta, your main options are:

1. Rent a car at the airport

• Follow signs to the Rental Car Center (RCC) at Hartsfield‑Jackson.
• From the airport, typical route:
  • Take I‑285 East / North to I‑20 East toward Augusta.
• Travel time: Around 2–2.5 hours, depending on traffic.

This gives you full flexibility once you reach Augusta.

2. Airport-area bus pick-up or rideshare

Some travelers:

• Take a rideshare directly from the airport to Augusta (more expensive but convenient).
• Use a bus option that departs from the Atlanta area after getting into the city via MARTA or shuttle.

If your flight lands during Atlanta rush hour, give yourself extra time getting away from the airport area and onto I‑20.

When to Book Ahead vs. Last-Minute

Book ahead if:

• You’re traveling during:
  • Masters Tournament week
  • Major Augusta events or Fort Eisenhower ceremonies
• You’re using:
  • Bus services with limited daily seats
  • Rideshare or private car service for a specific time
  • Hotels in Augusta, North Augusta, or nearby areas

Last-minute is usually fine if:

• You’re driving your own car from Atlanta
• Your plans are flexible and you can:
  • Leave at different times of day
  • Shift your schedule if traffic is heavier than expected

Quick Planning Checklist for Atlanta to Augusta

Use this short checklist before you leave Atlanta:

• ✅ Decide how you’ll travel: drive, bus, or rideshare/car service
• ✅ Check your departure time to avoid worst rush-hour congestion in Atlanta
• ✅ Verify your Augusta destination (exact address, gate, venue, or campus)
• ✅ Plan stops along I‑20 East if you’re with kids, pets, or older adults
• ✅ Confirm tickets or reservations if using a bus, private shuttle, or hotel
• ✅ Look at weather and traffic for I‑20 East before you start the drive

With a little planning from your home base in Atlanta, the trip to Augusta is generally a simple, direct, and manageable in-state journey—whether you’re going for a day trip, a medical appointment, a military visit, or one of the biggest golf events in the world.