Athens Travel Guide

Discover the best things to see and do in Athens, Ohio with this comprehensive travel guide. From hiking and biking to food and culture, we've got you covered.


Introduction to Athens

Athens, Ohio is a beautiful college town located in Southeast Ohio. It is best known for being the home of Ohio University, but there is so much more to this charming town. The area is surrounded by scenic hills and valleys, which makes it a great place for outdoor enthusiasts. The town has a rich history and a vibrant culture, which makes it a great destination for anyone who is looking for an authentic experience.

List of Places to Visit in Athens

Here is a list of the top places to visit in Athens:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Kennedy Museum of Art: This museum has a large collection of African Art, Modern and Traditional Prints and Drawings, Photography, Ceramics, American Art, and more.
  • Dairy Barn Arts Center: This is a non-profit gallery and art education center in Athens. It features both local and national artists.
  • Athens County Historical Society and Museum: This museum showcases the history of Athens County through its collections of artifacts and exhibits.

Natural Attractions of Athens: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Hocking Hills State Park: This is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves hiking, biking, or nature. It features waterfalls, caves, and the stunning rock formation known as “Old Man’s Cave.”
  • Strouds Run State Park: This park features hiking trails, fishing, and a large lake for swimming and boating.
  • The Ridges: This is the site of the former Athens Lunatic Asylum, which is now home to Ohio University’s Kennedy Museum of Art and the Athens Mental Health Center.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Athens

Athens is a great place for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Here are some trails that you should check out:

  • The Athens Bike Trail: This trail is a 21-mile trail that is perfect for both hiking and biking. It goes through the Hocking River Valley and passes through several towns along the way.
  • The Ridges Mental Health Center Trails: This trail system is located on the grounds of the old Athens Lunatic Asylum and is perfect for hiking, birdwatching, and exploring the historic buildings.
  • Sells Park: This park has several trails that are perfect for hiking and biking. It is also home to several sports fields and picnic shelters.

Best Things to Do in Athens: Activities and Tours

  • Brewed on the Bikeway: This is a bike tour that takes you to several local breweries.
  • Tour of Ohio University: Take a tour of Ohio University and learn about the history of the school and the town.
  • Athens Farmers Market: This is a weekly farmers market that features local produce, crafts, and more.
  • Ohio Pawpaw Festival: This is an annual festival that takes place in September and celebrates the pawpaw fruit, which is the largest native fruit in North America.

Week-Long Itinerary for Athens

Here is a sample itinerary for a week-long trip to Athens:

Day Activity
Monday Hike through Hocking Hills State Park
Tuesday Visit the Kennedy Museum of Art
Wednesday Go on a bike ride along the Athens Bike Trail
Thursday Take a tour of Ohio University
Friday Explore the Athens Farmers Market
Saturday Attend the Ohio Pawpaw Festival
Sunday Relax at Strouds Run State Park

Food and Drink Scene of Athens

Athens has an incredible food and drink scene that you won’t want to miss. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Ohio Pawpaw: This fruit is the largest native fruit in North America and is used to make desserts and beer.
  • Sticky Buns from Fluff Bakery & Catering: These sticky buns are a local favorite and are made fresh daily.
  • Bagel Sandwiches from Big Mamma’s Burritos: Big Mama’s is a local institution that is famous for their burritos and bagels sandwiches.

Local Beverages

  • Jackie O’s Brewery: This brewery is famous for its craft beers, which are made using local ingredients whenever possible.
  • Thunder Ridge Vineyards: This vineyard produces a variety of wines using grapes grown on the property.

Where to Stay in Athens: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Athens has plenty of options when it comes to accommodations. Here are a few recommendations:

  • The Ohio University Inn and Conference Center: This hotel is located on the Ohio University campus and offers comfortable rooms and a restaurant.
  • The Athens Central Hotel: This historic hotel is located in the heart of Athens and features unique rooms and a rooftop bar.
  • The HockHocking Adena Bikeway Hostel: This hostel is located right next to the Athens Bike Trail and offers affordable accommodations for hikers and bikers.

What to Buy in Athens: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Here are some of the best souvenirs and local products to bring home from Athens:

  • Unique gifts from the Athens Farmers Market
  • Local wines from Thunder Ridge Vineyards
  • Hand-made pottery from Mud-Puppy Studios

Local Culture and Customs of Athens

One of the best things about Athens is its vibrant and welcoming culture. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

  • Athens is a liberal college town, so be prepared to encounter a diverse group of people with different opinions.
  • Local residents are friendly and often strike up conversations with strangers.
  • Athens has a strong sense of community and encourages civic engagement.

Best Time to Visit Athens

The best time to visit Athens is in the fall when the weather is mild, the leaves are changing colors, and the Ohio Pawpaw Festival takes place.

Do’s and Don’ts of Athens

Here are a few things to keep in mind during your visit to Athens:

Do:

  • Attend a local event or festival to get a taste of the local culture.
  • Take a hike or bike ride to explore the scenic countryside.
  • Shop at the Athens Farmers Market to support local farmers and artisans.

Don’t:

  • Drive while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
  • Engage in disrespectful behavior towards local residents or students.
  • Litter or damage any natural or historic landmarks.

Safety and Health

Safety in Athens

Overall, Athens is a safe town, but it’s always important to take precautions when traveling. Here are a few tips:

  • Stay aware of your surroundings, especially when walking alone at night.
  • Lock your doors and windows when leaving your accommodations.
  • Be cautious when swimming in natural bodies of water, as currents can be unpredictable.

Health in Athens

If you need medical attention during your visit to Athens, there are several healthcare options available:

  • OhioHealth O’Bleness Hospital: This is a full-service hospital that offers emergency services and outpatient care.
  • Ohio University Student Health Center: This is a medical center that serves Ohio University students and offers a range of services, including primary care and mental health services.

Getting to Athens: Transportation Options and Logistics

Athens is located in Southeast Ohio and is accessible by several transportation options:

Airports Near Athens

  • Port Columbus International Airport (CMH): This airport is located in Columbus, Ohio and is approximately 75 miles from Athens.

Bus Stations Near Athens

  • Athens Bus Station: This station is located in downtown Athens and is served by Greyhound and other bus companies.

Other Options

  • Car rental: Athens has several car rental companies, which makes it easy to explore the area on your own.
  • Taxis and ride-sharing services: Several companies offer taxi and ride-sharing services in Athens, including Uber and Lyft.

How to Get Around in Athens

Athens is a small town, so it’s easy to get around on foot or by bike. Here are a few options:

  • Athens Bike Trail: This trail is a great way to explore the town and the surrounding countryside.
  • Athens Public Transit: This bus system serves the town and the Ohio University campus.
  • Car rental: If you prefer to explore the area on your own, there are several car rental companies in Athens.

Where to Go Next from Athens: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Athens is located in Southeast Ohio, which is a beautiful region that is worth exploring. Here are a few nearby destinations and excursions:

  • Hocking Hills State Park: This park is approximately 30 miles from Athens and features stunning waterfalls and hiking trails.
  • Nelsonville: This historic town is approximately 12 miles from Athens and features a charming town square and several museums.
  • Wayne National Forest: This forest is located approximately 20 miles from Athens and features hiking trails, camping, and hunting.

Conclusion

Athens, Ohio is a charming town that is worth exploring. Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff, or a foodie, there is something for everyone in Athens. Use this guide to plan your trip and discover all that this town has to offer.

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