The Southern College Town That’s Poised to Enter the National Spotlight
From UGA home games to the city’s local breweries, there are plenty of reasons to take a day trip to Athens.
Despite the fact that they’re separated by just 60 miles, Athens, Georgia, provides a remarkable escape from the towering environs of Atlanta.
Lately, of course, Athens is best known for the University of Georgia Bulldogs football team, which recently captured back-to-back national championships, but this college town pulses with creative energy, too—from a flourishing visual and performing arts scene, to live music venues that everyone can enjoy, to a restaurant-and-bar scene capable of satisfying any appetite.
Which is maybe what defines Athens the most: how effortlessly it combines the excitement of a big city with the charm of a small town.
Travel Time
1 hour 20 minutes from Atlanta
If you only do one thing: Cheer on the Bulldogs
The heartbeat of UGA sports radiates from Sanford Stadium, a historic venue that’s the 10th largest college football stadium in the nation (max capacity: 92,746) and has been the home of the Georgia Bulldogs since 1929. Steeped in tradition, in 2019, it was dedicated to Vince Dooley, the legendary coach and athletic director who left an indelible mark on the university.
Before games, be sure to arrive early enough to find a spot in the Tate Center parking lot, which fills up quickly, and join thousands of other fans for the Dawg Walk, during which you can cheer on the Bulldog players as they make their way into the stadium two hours or so before kickoff.
Football, though, isn’t the only game in town. UGA’s soccer matches are packed with excitement, too, as are home volleyball games, with the Redcoat Pep Band, UGA cheerleaders, and the spirited Georgia mascot, Spike, adding to the festivities.
Fill the Weekend With
Arts and Cultural Activities
Start your journey at the Georgia Museum of Art, where over 18,000 pieces, including American paintings, Southern decorative arts, and African-American works, are permanently showcased alongside rotating exhibitions. The museum’s Jane and Harry Willson Sculpture Garden highlights the creativity of female sculptors and makes it a must-see.
After that, explore the State Botanical Garden of Georgia, a 313-acre sanctuary featuring themed areas like the International Garden and Heritage Garden. This beloved attraction isn’t only a place of beauty but also an educational and recreational gem.
For film enthusiasts, Ciné is a unique movie experience in a restored historic venue, complete with two theaters, a bar, and a dynamic event space. If you’re more of a music person, stroll along the Athens Music Walk of Fame, celebrating the city’s famous music scene with tributes to R.E.M. and the B-52s.
In terms of live music, The Georgia Theatre has hosted big-time acts like Dave Matthews Band and Wu-Tang Clan, and the iconic alt-rock 40 Watt Club is an absolute essential stop, with new performances almost every night in a space steeped in history. Lastly, the Foundry, with its vintage-modern ambiance, blends the old and new, providing a unique setting for live tunes.
Outdoor Activities
Sandy Creek Park, surrounding the serene Lake Chapman, features picnic areas, wooded trails, and the only beach in Athens-Clarke County. Visitors can enjoy fishing, swimming, or exploring the 14 miles of trails that are excellent for hiking and horseback riding. Canoe, kayak, and paddleboard rentals add to the fun on the water. For biking enthusiasts, Walker Park boasts over four miles of mountain-bike trails, catering to all skill levels. And the Oconee Rivers Greenway provides scenic paths for walking, biking, and wildlife viewing, making it a great spot for family outings.
The Athens Farmers Market
Located at Bishop Park, this vibrant market offers a rich selection of fresh, locally-grown produce, handmade goods, and artisanal products. From seasonal fruits and vegetables to homemade baked treats, it showcases the best of what local farmers and artisans are producing. The market also emphasizes sustainability and supports small businesses, making it a feel-good experience that connects you directly to the Athens community.
Where to Eat and Drink
Breakfast: Mama’s Boy is a breakfast institution where the biscuits are more than worth the wait.
Dinner: Last Resort Grill is a must-visit for its Southern-inspired dishes served in a cozy atmosphere. The National, a fine-dining staple in downtown Athens, continues to impress with its irresistible plates, now under the skilled leadership of chef Burns Sullivan. Weaver D’s Delicious Fine Foods has some of the best fried chicken in town, along with a range of vegetarian-friendly sides.Cali N Titos brings a taste of Latin America with its flavorful and casual menu, while Five & Ten, helmed by James Beard Award-winner Hugh Acheson, delivers refined Southern cuisine, and the laid-back Puma Yu’s hits on an eclectic mix of global flavors.
Drinks: To wash it all down, Trappeze is a beer lover’s dream with its extensive selection of taps and bottles paired with hearty sandwiches. The rooftop HyBar at Hyatt Place Athens Downtown is a perfect mix of breathtaking views and craft cocktails. And the World Famous keeps things lively with creative bar food and original cocktails, making it a favorite late-night spot.