Georgia is a state full of surprises. Its mix of coastal islands, charming towns, and bustling cities makes it an ideal place for walking tours. Whether you’re into exploring historic ruins, uncovering local legends, or tasting regional cuisine, Georgia has a tour for you. We especially love the Cumberland Island Walking Tour for its fascinating mix of history and scenery, and the Augusta Riverwalk Food Tour for a chance to sample great local dishes while enjoying scenic views. For a taste of local stories and architecture, the St. Marys Murder, Mayhem, and Martinis Tour offers a playful mix of history and mystery. And if you’re after something more interactive, the Athens Scavenger Hunt provides a lively way to discover the city’s quirky spots. Each of these tours offers a different flavor of Georgia—so you’re sure to find something that matches your interests.
Quick Overview
Our list of the best walking tours in Georgia covers a range of experiences—from historic island walks (Cumberland Island Walking Tour) to city food adventures (3 Hour It’s 5 o’clock on the Riverwalk Walking Food Tour – Augusta), storytelling (Fugitives, Fighters, and Fudge: St. Marys Walking Tour), and even scavenger hunts (Athens Scavenger Hunt). Read on to see which tour suits your style.
1. Cumberland Island Walking Tour
At number one, the Cumberland Island Walking Tour offers a quick but rich dive into this remote barrier island’s past. Starting right at the Dungeness Dock ferry landing, this tour covers key sights like the Dungeness Ruins, Greene-Miller Cemetery, and the servants’ quarters. It’s perfect if you want a snapshot of the island’s complex history, from Native Americans and Spanish settlers to wealthy New Yorkers like the Carnegies.
This 2-hour walk is led by an engaging guide who makes history come alive—Marry, for example, is praised for her storytelling. Tour highlights include exploring the ruins of the Carnegie mansion, learning about the burying grounds of Revolutionary War General “Light-Horse Harry” Lee, and walking past centuries-old live oaks. The tour is ideal for those who want to maximize a short visit, with admission included and a convenient meetup at the ferry dock. The scenery is breathtaking, and the stories of the island’s layered history make it well worth the $45 price.
Bottom Line: If you’re looking for a compact tour packed with history, stunning ruins, and a guide with personality, this one is hard to beat. It’s perfect for active travelers eager to explore Cumberland Island without committing a whole day.
2. Fugitives, Fighters, and Fudge: St. Marys Walking Tour
Next, the Fugitives, Fighters, and Fudge: St. Marys Walking Tour offers a lively hour and a half of stories from the town’s 250-year past. This tour is a hit for those interested in stories of drama, daring, and local legends, all set against the backdrop of the St. Marys waterfront.
Highlights include visiting the historic Riverview Hotel, where figures like Rockefeller and Carnegie once stayed, and exploring the First Presbyterian Church, one of Georgia’s oldest religious buildings. The tour also features a stroll past the iconic pink Spencer House Inn and stories of notorious bandits and Revolutionary War episodes. The tour is small and personal, with free admission to many sites, making it a good budget-friendly choice ($24). Visitors praise the lively storytelling and the chance to see some of the town’s most historic landmarks—perfect for history buffs who enjoy a good story over a stroll.
Bottom Line: For a fun, story-rich walk that mixes history with local color, this tour packs a punch. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who want an inside look at St. Marys’ colorful past without a long commitment.
3. St. Marys Murder, Mayhem, and Martinis Walking Tour
The St. Marys Murder, Mayhem, and Martinis Tour offers a mix of spooky stories and local lore in just over an hour. Starting at the Archibald Clark House, you’ll explore architecture from the early 1800s while uncovering tales of murders and mischief that shocked the town. The tour visits sites like the First Presbyterian Church, where a horse famously got stuck in the bell tower, and the Greek Revival Orange Hall, linked to the notorious bandit Daniel McGirt.
What makes this tour stand out is its blend of history, ghost stories, and local legends, finished off with a visit to Seagle’s Saloon for Happy Hour drinks. The guide shares stories of real murders and mayhem, making it a perfect choice for travelers intrigued by the darker side of history. With lively storytelling and a chance for a drink afterward, it offers great value at $24.
Bottom Line: For those who enjoy true crime stories and lively local tales, this tour turns history into a bit of entertainment — with the bonus of a social drink at the end.
4. 3 Hour It’s 5 o’clock on the Riverwalk Walking Food Tour – Augusta
Up next, the Augusta Riverwalk Food Tour offers a delicious way to explore Georgia’s third-largest city. For around $95, you’ll visit four local restaurants, sampling regional dishes and two drinks, all while strolling along the scenic Riverwalk. The tour lasts about three hours, making it a relaxed way to experience Augusta’s culinary scene.
Starting at Augusta & Co., you’ll browse the local gift shop before heading out for a walk along the river, where you’ll spot landmarks and learn about the city’s history. The food stops are curated to highlight the city’s best offerings, with descriptions of what makes each restaurant special. The small group setting ensures you get personalized attention, and the mix of history and food makes this a well-rounded experience. Past participants mention the prompt service, interesting background, and fun atmosphere, especially during the last dance-off at the final stop.
Bottom Line: If you love discovering food and drink as much as history and scenery, this tour offers excellent value for a delicious afternoon out in Augusta.
5. Athens Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game
Finally, the Athens Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game invites you to see Athens, Georgia in a whole new way. This activity is perfect for travelers who prefer self-guided exploration with a fun twist. Over roughly two hours, you’ll follow clues through the city’s streets, cafes, and bookstores, discovering its musical and educational spirit.
The tour is designed to be flexible—you can go at your own pace while solving puzzles that lead you to landmarks and hidden spots. It’s a great choice for active, curious travelers who want to learn about Athens’ quirky side without a rigid schedule. Since there are no reviews yet, it’s best suited for those who enjoy interactive experiences and want to add some adventure to their trip.
Bottom Line: For a flexible, engaging way to explore Athens’ character and charm, this scavenger hunt is a lively alternative to traditional walking tours.
$24.50 per person
How to Choose the Right Walking Tour in Georgia
When selecting a walking tour, consider your interests and how much time you want to spend. If history and ruins appeal to you, the Cumberland Island tour offers a compact but meaningful experience. For city explorers, the Augusta Riverwalk Food Tour combines scenery, history, and local cuisine—perfect for food lovers. Those interested in stories of crime and legend should look at the St. Marys Murder Tour, while active and social travelers might enjoy the Athens scavenger hunt.
Budget is also a factor. The Fugitives, Fighters, and Fudge Tour is very affordable, while the food tour provides a full afternoon of entertainment for a bit more. Booking early is wise, especially in peak seasons, to secure your spot.
Final Thoughts
Georgia offers a wide variety of walking tours that cater to different tastes—whether you’re after history, food, stories, or fun games. For a quick dose of history and scenic ruins, the Cumberland Island tour is an excellent pick. If you prefer a lively city experience, the Augusta Food Tour combines sightseeing with tasting. For those with a taste for mystery, the St. Marys Murder Tour delivers some spooky stories with a social twist. And if you’re feeling adventurous, the Athens scavenger hunt offers a playful, flexible way to explore the city.
No matter your choice, these tours give you a chance to see Georgia from a local perspective. Book early, bring your curiosity, and enjoy discovering the Peach State’s many stories.