Inside Augusta Museum of History’s Archival Experience

Guided Tour · Augusta

Behind The Scenes At The AMH

Step beyond traditional museum visits with an exclusive look at artifact care at the Augusta Museum of History. Discover how archives preserve family treasures and historical relics during intimate backstage tours.

View experience
Duration1 hour
LocationAugusta, Georgia
OperatorAugusta Museum of History
Price shownCheck dates

Adventure brief

Behind The Scenes At The AMH

Step beyond traditional museum visits with an exclusive look at artifact care at the Augusta Museum of History. Discover how archives preserve family treasures and historical relics during intimate backstage tours.

The Augusta Museum of History offers a unique gateway into the meticulous world of artifact preservation with its "Behind The Scenes At The AMH" experience. Located in the heart of Augusta, Georgia, this museum stands as a cultural anchor within a city where Southern heritage and outdoor charm converge along the Savannah River. Visitors looking to reconsider what adventure means will find this program a distinct departure from typical expeditions, diving deep into the complexities of archival work and historical conservation.

Hosted by Museum Registrar Alena Rensch, the session invites guests to step beyond exhibit halls into the quiet sanctum where family relics and rare artifacts are carefully preserved. This immersive encounter reveals the techniques used to maintain the integrity of everything from textiles to fragile documents, illuminating an often unseen side of history stewardship. These behind-the-scenes Saturdays offer limited, intimate groups, ensuring a personal and hands-on exploration with up to 15 participants per tour, lasting about an hour each.

Augusta itself provides more than just a backdrop; its storied past as a key Southern trade hub enhances the museum’s collections with narratives rooted in the region's evolving identity. The museum’s dedication to preserving these stories amid the lush Georgian landscape elevates it into a standout destination not only for history buffs but also for travelers keen to connect with heritage on a tangible level. For families and curious travelers alike, this experience adds a layer of discovery to Augusta’s outdoor and cultural itinerary.

Whether you’re a casual visitor or a history aficionado, the AMH’s archival tour broadens the definition of adventure, proving that the thrill of uncovering history can be just as powerful as a hike through rugged terrain.

Adventure tips

Plan your experience.

Curated tips for an optimal adventure.

  1. 01
    Reserve Your Spot Early

    Tours are limited to 15 guests and fill quickly, so book ahead to secure a place.

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  2. 02
    Suitable for Ages 8 and Up

    Children must be accompanied by an adult, making this an educational outing for families.

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  3. 03
    Wear Comfortable Shoes

    While mostly indoors, expect light walking and standing during the hour-long tour.

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  4. 04
    Photography Restrictions Apply

    Check with staff about photography guidelines, as some archival areas may have limitations.

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DifficultyEasy
Duration1 hour
FitnessNo special physical fitness required; mostly standing and light walking indoors.
Technical skillsNone

Recommended gear

What to bring.

01

Comfortable walking shoes

Essential for navigating the museum’s interior comfortably during the tour.

Essential
02

Light jacket or sweater

Indoor temperature control can be cool, especially in spring and fall.

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03

Notebook and pen

Ideal for jotting down preservation tips and historical facts during the tour.

04

Camera (subject to museum policies)

Capture memories where allowed but verify restrictions beforehand.

Local insights

Context for the journey.

Hidden gems

Nearby secrets

Augusta Riverwalk trails along the Savannah River, Augusta Canal National Heritage Area for scenic walks and kayaking

Wildlife

Local fauna

Urban songbirds like cardinals and mockingbirds, Occasional river otters near the Augusta Canal

History

Historic heritage

Augusta’s strategic location on the Savannah River made it a pivotal trading hub in the 18th and 19th centuries, shaping much of the region’s material culture preserved in the museum.

Conservation

Mindful exploration

The museum emphasizes sustainable preservation techniques, minimizing chemical use and focusing on eco-friendly archival materials to protect artifacts and the environment.

Photography tips

Capture the moments

Viewpoints
Museum main gallery, Nearby riverwalk access points, Augusta Canal pedestrian bridges
Subjects
Historical artifacts and exhibit setups, Architectural details of the museum, Natural scenes along the Savannah River
Best times
Late morning, Early afternoon, Golden hour near riverfront

Frequently asked questions

Before you go.

Is the Behind The Scenes tour suitable for children?

Yes, the tour welcomes guests aged 8 and older, but children must be accompanied by an adult.

Do I need to book tickets in advance?

Yes, spots are limited to 15 guests per tour and fill quickly, so advance booking is recommended.

Is there an admission fee to the museum or tour?

Behind The Scenes tours are included with regular museum admission: $5 for adults, $4 for seniors, and $3 for children aged 6-17.

Can I take photos during the tour?

Photography policies vary by area; please consult staff before taking photos in archival sections.

How long does the tour last?

Each Behind The Scenes tour runs approximately one hour.

Are there accessibility accommodations?

The Augusta Museum of History is wheelchair accessible; contact the museum for specific accommodation requests.

Augusta Museum of History

Inside Augusta Museum of History’s Archival Experience