When it comes to things to do in Athens, GA, the vast array of lists online can be daunting to navigate. Are you a student looking for something to do on the weekends or during vacation? Are you a traveler coming from far away to see the Southern charm and history of the Classic City? Are you an office worker looking for ways to relax after work? Do you want to find events in Athens GA to spend quality time with your family? Whatever you seek from the destination, this blog can point you to the Athens GA activities right for you. Join us on our journey to discover the extraordinary charms of Athens!
What County is Athens GA in?
Before we set out on our journey of things to do in Athens, GA, let’s first become acquainted with the city.
Athens is a vibrant city in northeastern Georgia, USA, just a few kilometers from Atlanta. Established in 1806, it is the capital of Clarke County. The University of Georgia is its anchor institution, making it a lively college town. It was named after Athens, Greece to honor the ancient Greek city’s role as a center of learning. The essence of the American South is palpable here, from the architectural designs to the warm demeanor of the residents. With a rich heritage and various attractions, Athens offers things to do for everyone. The following section will explore the multiple activities in Athens, GA.
What are the Things to Do in Athens GA?
In this blog, you’ll find the following things to do in Athens, Georgia:
- Take a Tour at University of Georgia
- Visit Georgia Museum of Art
- Discover Best Food and Drink
- Watch Sports at Sanford Stadium
- Catch Concerts & Enjoy the Music.
- Embrace Nature
- Enjoy Shopping in Athens GA
- Participate in Team Building Activities
- Visit State Botanical Garden of Georgia or Sandy Creek Nature Center
- Attend Art Events
Things to Do in Athens GA → Students & Travelers
🎒First Stuff to do in Athens GA: Take a Tour at University of Georgia
Hailed as one of the most beautiful college towns in the United States, Athens owes its existence to the establishment of the University of Georgia. It is the first public university in American history. Since the university opened, Athens has continuously attracted people from other places, nurturing a community that has steadily grown and evolved. As the heart and soul of this remarkable city, the University of Georgia is one of the must-visit Athens GA attractions for students and travelers.
In recent years, an increasing number of students worldwide have chosen to study here to advance their education. In response to the growing demand for student housing, numerous affordable and luxury UGA student apartments have emerged. If you study in Athens, there are multiple accommodation options for you. uhomes.com is a great platform for looking for ideal student apartments in Athens GA.
#1 The UGA Arch 📍US-78 BUS, Athens, GA 30602
The UGA Arch is one of the most popular tourist spots in Athens. The historic arch, standing for over one hundred and sixty years, encapsulates the essence of the University of Georgia’s journey through time. Its three pillars symbolise the state’s core values—wisdom, Justice, and Moderation. Inspired by ancient Greek architecture and forged in steel, the Arch honours the wisdom of the past while embracing the spirit of the present and future. For students, this arch is enveloped in an air of enigma. Legend has it that those who walk through the Arch will not complete their studies. Consequently, no UGA student risks crossing through it, and everyone passing by takes a cautious detour. This tale has endured for generations, possibly even centuries. So, crossing the UGA Arch can be added to one of the non-student Athens GA activities.
#2 Founders Memorial Garden 📍Athens, GA 30602
The UGA North Campus retains many historic buildings, and among these treasures lies the Founders Memorial Garden, which is of profound significance. Visiting it can be one of the most meaningful things to do in Athens, Georgia. Athens is the birthplace of America’s first garden club. This historic garden, initially founded to celebrate the club’s 12 distinguished founders, now also stands as a memorial garden dedicated to those who have served in the US Armed Forces. Although compact, the garden maximises its space thoughtfully, with every corner meticulously designed. The garden transforms with the seasons, each bringing its unique charm, and it is in the spring that the garden truly blossoms into its most breathtaking form.
#3 UGA Chapel 📍University of Georgia Chapel, 109 Herty Dr, Athens, GA 30602
Visiting the UGA Chapel is one of the things to do in Athens GA that is a feast for the eyes. Built in 1832, the Chapel is one of the most lavish and intricate structures on the campus and one of the most aesthetically pleasing buildings in Georgia. It is used as a venue for lectures, campus meetings, and wedding ceremonies. Steeped in rich UGA history, the Chapel is also where the Bulldogs football team has gathered to celebrate victories. A towering bell tower is nestled at its rear, known as the “lucky bell.” When fortune smiles, it’s a tradition to ring the bell in celebration.
#4 Performing Arts Center 📍230 River Rd, Athens, GA 30605
Spending an evening to see a performance at the Performing Arts Centre is one of the unforgettable Athens Georgia things to do. The Performing Arts Centre boasts an exceptional stage, attracting artists from around the globe to perform nightly. It hosts an extraordinary array of performers from classical, jazz, and world music, as well as ballet, folk, and dance. Remarkably, even the esteemed Russian National Ballet has graced the venue with a breathtaking performance of Swan Lake.
🎒Visit Georgia Museum of Art 📍90 Carlton St, Athens, GA 30602
Strolling through the Georgia Museum of Art is one of the best things to do in Athens. Situated on the University of Georgia’s campus, adjacent to the College of Fine Arts and School of Music, the esteemed Georgia Museum of Art serves as an academic museum and the official art museum of Georgia since 1982. The museum boasts an impressive collection of nearly 17,000 objects, featuring 19th- and 20th-century artworks, American, European, and Asian paintings, the Kress Collection of Italian Renaissance paintings, as well as an expansive and ever-growing assortment of Southern Decorative Arts and Asian art. The Georgia Museum of Art offers free admission to all visitors, making it one of the things to do in Athens GA for free.
🎒Discover Great Places to Eat & Drink in Athens GA
#1 Great restaurants in Athens GA
Exploring the city’s vibrant food scene is one of the top things to do in Athens. Begin your exploration at some of the top restaurants in Athens GA.
For breakfast, Mama’s Boy (📍197 Oak St, Athens, GA 30601), Big City Bread (📍393 N Finley St Studio C, Athens, GA 30601), Farm Cart (📍1074 Baxter St, Athens, GA 30606), Athens Bagel Company (📍268 N Jackson St, Athens, GA 30601), the Grit (📍199 Prince Ave, Athens, GA 30601), Cafe Racer (📍2343 W Broad St, Athens, GA 30606), and the Independent Baking Company (📍1625 S Lumpkin St, Athens, GA 30606) in Five Points are great places to eat in Athens GA.
For lunch, Maepole (📍1021 N Chase St, Athens, GA 30601), Trappeze (📍269 N Hull St, Athens, GA 30601), Ted’s Most Best (📍254 W Washington St, Athens, GA 30601), Martis at Midday (📍1280 Prince Ave, Athens, GA 30606), Agua Linda (📍1376 Prince Ave, Athens, GA 30606), TLALOC (📍1225 N Chase St, Athens, GA 30601), Taqueria Del Sol (📍334 Prince Ave, Athens, GA 30601), Cali N Titos (📍1427 S Lumpkin St, Athens, GA 30605), Depalma’s (📍401 E Broad St, Athens, GA 30601), Automatic Pizza (📍1397 Prince Ave, Athens, GA 30606), and Clocked (📍259 W Washington St, Athens, GA 30601) are the best places to eat lunch in Athens GA.
If you want to find the best brunch in Athens GA, go to South Kitchen (📍247 E Washington St Ste 101, Athens, GA 30601), Weaver D’s (📍1016 E Broad St, Athens, GA 30601), Chucks (📍220 W Broad St, Athens, GA 30601), Donna Changs (📍1664 S Lumpkin St, Athens, GA 30606), Butcher & Vine (📍1653 S Lumpkin St, Athens, GA 30606), Five and Ten (📍1073 S Milledge Ave, Athens, GA 30605), or Last Resort Grill (📍174-184 W Clayton St, Athens, GA 30601).
Lastly, The World Famous (📍351 N Hull St, Athens, GA 30601) and The Grill (📍171 College Ave, Athens, GA 30601) offer the best late-night food in Athens GA.
#2 Best coffee shops in Athens GA
Coffee shops are perfect for catching up with friends or studying. You can go to Condor (📍1658 S Lumpkin St, Athens, GA 30606), which is a chocolate heaven with outdoor seating. Walker’s (📍128 College Ave, Athens, GA 30601) and Hendershot’s (📍237 Prince Ave, Athens, GA 30601) are perfect study spots. Jittery Joe’s (📍1230 S Milledge Ave, Athens, GA 30605) is certainly one of the best coffee shops in Athens GA.
#3 Best bars in Athens GA
Athens has a little over 80 bars. Here are some of the top bars in Athens Georgia.
If you are looking for a chill atmosphere, Creature Comforts Brewery (📍271 W Hancock Ave, Athens, GA 30601) and Clarkes (📍225 N Lumpkin St, Athens, GA 30601) are your best choices.
Silver Dollar (📍262 College Ave, Athens, GA 30601), Woodford (📍130 E Washington St, Athens, GA 30601), Boars Head (📍260 E Washington St, Athens, GA 30601), and Flanagan’s (📍301 E Clayton St, Athens, GA 30601) are for those who like to dance all night. 9d’s (📍400 E Clayton St ste b, Athens, GA 30601), The Warehouse (📍346 E Broad St, Athens, GA 30601), and Sister Louisa’s Church (📍254 W Clayton St, Athens, GA 30601) play the best music.
Experiencing a drag show is also one of the most fun activities in Athens GA. It offers a unique and vibrant glimpse into the city’s lively culture. The nocturnal setting reveals a different, often more inclusive aspect of the urban landscape.
🎒Watch a UGA Football Game in Athens
One of the fun things to do in Athens GA is to go to a Georgia Bulldogs game at Sanford Stadium (📍100 Sanford Dr, Athens, GA 30602).
If you don’t get tickets here, you can still catch an exhaustive football game at Paloma Park (📍235 W Washington St, Athens, GA 30601), Akademia Brewing Company (📍150 Crane Dr, Athens, GA 30606), Tate Theatre (📍45 Baxter St, Athens, GA 30602), Georgia Theatre Rooftop (📍215 N Lumpkin St, Athens, GA 30601), Live Wire Athens (📍227 W Dougherty St, Athens, GA 30601), or Magnolias (📍312 E Broad St, Athens, GA 30601).
🎒Catch Concerts & Enjoy the Music
Enjoying the music scene is fun stuff to do in Athens, Georgia. Athens enjoys a flourishing music scene that has spawned renowned bands such as R.E.M. and the B-52s, who frequently allude to Athens in their songs. The city’s renowned music venues, including The Georgia Theatre (📍215 N Lumpkin St, Athens, GA 30601) and 40 Watt (📍285 W Washington St, Athens, GA 30601), host renowned artists. Hendershot’s (📍237 Prince Ave, Athens, GA 30601) offers singer-songwriter performances. For a more contemporary sound, patrons can visit the Flicker Theatre & Bar (📍263 W Washington St, Athens, GA 30601) and The World Famous (📍351 N Hull St, Athens, GA 30601). Additionally, live music can be enjoyed at the local library and the State Botanical Garden of Georgia (📍2450 S Milledge Ave, Athens, GA 30605).
Things to Do in Athens GA → Office Workers
👜Embrace Nature
When office workers have free time, seeking “relief” in nature is one of the great activities in Athens GA. Sandy Creek Park (📍400 Bob Holman Rd, Athens, GA 30607) offers a variety of activities, including running, swimming, biking, picnicking, fishing, and disc golf, surrounding the 260-acre Lake Chapman. The North Oconee River Greenway (📍139 Ruth St, Athens, GA 30601) is a lengthy linear park that is ideal for outdoor recreation. It features over 50 heritage interpretive markers that trace the area’s rich history.
👜Enjoy Shopping in Athens GA
For a laborer, a trip to malls or shops is one of the fun things in Athens GA to unwind and recharge. There are many Athens GA places to visit for a rewarding shopping experience.
There are lots of great shopping opportunities in downtown Athens, with more than 65 specialty retailers offering a wide range of merchandise, many of which are locally made. The clothing boutiques here have something for everyone, with a great selection of styles. Five Points is a historic district with a diverse range of retail options, including antique shops, soap and cosmetic stores, clothing boutiques, jewelry stores, bicycle shops, and more. Normaltown is an eclectic area with a distinctive ambiance, ideal for the modern shopper. It offers a diverse range of retail options, including fashion, books, and fresh, high-quality groceries.
Athens boasts a number of upscale malls. Beechwood Mall (📍196 Alps Rd, Athens, GA 30606) offers a diverse range of shopping options, featuring some of the largest retailers in the country, as well as a variety of local businesses. Georgia Square Mall (📍3700 Atlanta Hwy, Athens, GA 30606), which has been serving the area since 1981, offers a diverse range of retail options, including department stores, specialty stores, restaurants, and more.
👜Participate in Team Building Activities
#1 Athens Craft Beer Tour
If you’re looking for things to do in Athens, GA with your coworkers, a visit to experience the growing craft beer industry is an excellent team-building opportunity. Athens is known as the most craft beer-friendly city, with each brewery offering a unique vibe and style. You can even go on a tour to learn how award-winning beers are made at local Athens breweries. A tour of the beer getaway, Athens Beer Trail, is a stuff to do in Athens GA for you to experience the city’s rich brewing heritage. Along the way, you can discover new flavors and soak up the creative atmosphere of Athens with your colleagues.
- Akademia Brewing Company 📍150 Crane Dr, Athens, GA 30606
- Athentic Brewing Company 📍108 Park Ave, Athens, GA 30601
- Creature Comforts Brewing Co. 📍271 W Hancock Ave, Athens, GA 30601
- Normaltown Brewing Company 📍425 Barber St, Athens, GA 30601
- Terrapin Beer Co. 📍265 Newton Bridge Rd, Athens, GA 30607
#2 Take A Golf Outing
A round of golf with colleagues is one of the fun things in Athens GA. UGA Golf Course (📍2600 Riverbend Rd, Athens, GA 30605) is a highly regarded college course and the only public golf course in the city of Athens. It offers unparalleled access to top-tier golf and instruction.
Things to Do in Athens GA → Families
👪Visit Family-friendly Athens GA attractions
#1 State Botanical Garden of Georgia 📍2450 S Milledge Ave, Athens, GA 30605
Visiting the State Botanical Garden of Georgia can be one of the worthwhile and relaxing Athens, Georgia events. As a pivotal public service and outreach unit of the University of Georgia, the State Botanical Garden of Georgia fosters a rich learning environment, inspiration, and engagement through horticulture and conservation.
In the garden, Alice H. Richards Children’s Garden educates families about nature playfully and interactively. It features diverse gardens, edible plants, a tree house, a fossil wall, a map crafted from Georgia granite, and much more. Additionally, the Arboretum boasts a Discovery and Inspiration Garden, Courtyard, Heritage Garden, Conservatory, Hummingbird Trail, International Garden, Native Plant Gardens and Herb Garden. All are designed to spark curiosity and a deeper connection with the natural world.
#2 Sandy Creek Nature Center 📍205 Old Commerce Rd, Athens, GA 30607
Taking a comprehensive stroll around Sandy Creek Nature Center is a fulfilling thing to do in Athens GA. Near downtown Athens, Sandy Creek Nature Center is an oasis of natural beauty and education.
Spanning over 225 acres of lush woodlands and vibrant wetlands, it is a haven for nature enthusiasts. It features 12 diverse trails, including an accessible interpretive trail. The education and visitor centre is a treasure trove of knowledge, boasting live reptiles, amphibians, marine and freshwater aquariums, and interactive natural history exhibits. You can borrow binoculars, identifiers, and educational trail packets for an enhanced experience. Furthermore, the centre captivates everyone with its interactive displays, live animal exhibits, and a dazzling planetarium.
👪Attend Art Events
One of the best things to do in Athens GA for parents and children is taking part in art projects together.
The Georgia Museum of Art (📍90 Carlton St, Athens, GA 30602) boasts an extensive collection of over 18,000 works of art and regularly hosts 20 to 25 temporary exhibitions annually. The museum offers you the opportunity to view a diverse range of artworks, including American paintings, works on paper, Southern decorative arts, and self-taught art. This free museum offers artistic inspiration and helps your kids develop aesthetic appreciation.
The Lyndon House Arts Center (📍211 Hoyt St, Athens, GA 30601) presents a unique opportunity to experience art exhibits that seamlessly integrate historical and contemporary elements. You can explore a modern art gallery, a dedicated children’s wing, and art class studios. It offers free access to a diverse range of local, regional, and national artists showcasing various mediums. This is one of the best things to do in Athens for children, offering insight into the evolution of the arts and the city’s rich cultural heritage.
Conclusion
With so many things to do in Athens GA, it’s no wonder this vibrant city continues to captivate both residents and visitors. There are Athens GA activities for everyone, whether you’re a student, a tourist, or a local. Touring the University of Georgia provides a glimpse into the vibrant academic community and rich history of this charming city. The bustling downtown area is filled with local shops and lively nightlife that capture the spirit of Athens. The surrounding natural parks promise serene exploration for those who adore the outdoors. Lastly, visiting the Georgia Museum of Art will enrich your journey with an impressive collection of art and cultural exhibits. Embrace the diverse offerings of Athens, and you will undoubtedly create timeless memories.
FAQ
How do I spend a day in Athens, GA?
One of the recommended things to do in Athens GA is to start your morning with a stroll through the scenic University of Georgia campus. Head to the Georgia Museum of Art for creativity and inspiration. Venture into the vibrant Five Points neighbourhood, a culinary haven waiting to be discovered. Then, explore the charming boutiques and shops that line the streets. Catch a live performance at the famed 40 Watt Club or in the evening.
Is Athens, GA worth visiting?
Yes, Athens, GA, is worth visiting. There are many things to do in Athens GA. Athens truly stands out as a destination worth exploring, with the University of Georgia’s picturesque campus, a burgeoning culinary landscape, and so many tourist spots in Athens. Steeped in rich history and brimming with a vibrant arts scene, this charming city offers an eclectic mix of old-world charm and contemporary flair.
What is the number one thing to do in Athens?
The number one priority among many things to do in Athens GA must be exploring the iconic Acropolis. This ancient citadel, perched high above the city, is not only a testament to Greece’s rich history but also a beacon for the enduring spirit of human achievement.
