Hilton Garden Inn Augusta

I’ll be back in a few months for work in Augusta. The Hilton Garden Inn had what I needed, friendly staff, and a great location. Before a friend picked me up for dinner at Doc’s Porchside Bar & Grill, I had a drink at the hotel to unwind. It’s an iconic local place with great seafood, and I recommend it. There’s also a liquor store just outside the hotel, which came in handy. My room was spectacular, clean and comfortable, and matched the one I chose in the Hilton Honors app. I like picking my own room, especially near the elevator so I don’t have to drag my luggage and camera gear down a long hallway. Getting into the hotel was a little tricky with the traffic, turns, and nearby hotels, but once inside, everything went smoothly. The staff were very nice, and I felt safe and welcome.

I came back for a second stay because Demetrius’s grilled salmon was that good. It had an amazing smoky, charbroiled taste, and I couldn’t pass up another serving. I didn’t want to miss it by trying one of the other entrées, though I can imagine they’re good too. I grew up in the restaurant business and specialized in seafood, so I consider myself a good judge. The Chef, Demetrius, made the most outstanding grilled salmon entrée I’ve ever had. The Garden Grill at Hilton Garden Inn, Augusta, is lucky to have that kind of talent. It’s definitely worth visiting for dinner even if you’re not staying at the hotel.

I stayed Nov 15-17, 2025, and on Saturday went to the front desk for a physical key for the second adult in my room. I was using a digital key and wanted to give the guest a physical one. I provided the room number, and the young man programmed a key for me without asking for ID or anything to confirm I belonged in that room. I don’t know the hotel’s policy, but that feels like an unacceptable safety issue. Please put a process in place, or enforce one, that requires ID to verify someone is attached to the assigned room.

I rushed out and locked myself out of my room. Nina and the housekeeping staff were amazing, getting me back in within two minutes so I wouldn’t be late for my event.