Athens (Georgia) Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Athens (Georgia) with our comprehensive travel guide, including places to visit, hiking/biking routes, food and drink scene, where to stay, and local culture.


Introduction to Athens (Georgia)

Located in the Classic Heartland of Georgia, Athens is a vibrant city that combines rich history and culture with stunning natural beauty. Athens is home to the University of Georgia, which gives the city a youthful vibe, and it’s also known for its thriving music scene that has produced legendary bands like R.E.M. and the B-52s. Visiting Athens is not complete without exploring its museums, hiking/biking routes, and culinary scene.

List of Places to Visit in Athens (Georgia)

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Athens is rich in history and culture, and there are plenty of museums and historical sites to explore, including:

  • Georgia Museum of Art: One of the top university art museums in the country, Georgia Museum of Art features a diverse collection of American art, along with European paintings and sculptures.

  • Georgia Museum of Natural History: This museum showcases the natural history of Georgia, with exhibits on geology, ecology, and wildlife, including plants and animals that are unique to Georgia.

  • The Tree That Owns Itself: A unique landmark in Athens, this tree is believed to have legal ownership of the land surrounding it. The original tree was destroyed in the 1940s, but a new tree has been planted in its place.

  • The State Botanical Garden of Georgia: This 313-acre garden is home to a diverse collection of plants, including those that are native to Georgia.

Natural Attractions of Athens (Georgia): Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Athens boasts breathtaking natural beauty, and there are plenty of outdoor adventures and scenic views to enjoy, including:

  • Sandy Creek Nature Center: This nature center features walking trails, nature exhibits, and plenty of opportunities for bird watching and aquatic exploration.

  • Athens-Clarke County Firefly Trail: A bike trail that connects Athens to Winterville.

  • Sandy Creek Park: This beautiful park features a lake, beach, and plenty of recreational activities like fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Athens (Georgia)

Athens is a great place to explore on foot or bike, and there are many scenic routes to choose from, including:

  • The Founders Trail: A 2.35-mile trail that connects Athens to Oconee County, this route follows a natural woodland path and features a stunning creek.

  • The Athens-Clarke Rail Trail: This 15.6-mile trail follows an abandoned rail line through Athens and provides breathtaking views of the city’s natural landscapes.

Best Things to Do in Athens (Georgia): Activities and Tours

There’s no shortage of things to do in Athens, including:

  • Athens Food Tours: Sample the city’s culinary delights on a guided food tour.

  • Terrapin Brewery Tours: Take a tour of Athens’ most popular brewery, and sample a variety of locally brewed beers.

  • Ghost Tours of Athens: Explore the city’s haunted past on a spooky tour through Athens’ historic districts.

Week-Long Itinerary for Athens (Georgia)

Here’s a sample week-long itinerary for Athens:

  • Day 1: Visit the Georgia Museum of Art and the State Botanical Garden of Georgia.

  • Day 2: Explore Sandy Creek Nature Center and Sandy Creek Park.

  • Day 3: Take a bike ride on the Athens-Clarke Rail Trail and visit downtown Athens’ local shops and restaurants.

  • Day 4: Visit the Georgia Museum of Natural History and take a tour of the University of Georgia campus.

  • Day 5: Sample Athens’ culinary delights on a food tour and visit the Terrapin Brewery.

  • Day 6: Take a hike on the Founders Trail and visit Athens’ historic districts.

  • Day 7: Relax at a local coffee shop or restaurant and enjoy Athens’ laid-back vibe.

Food and Drink Scene of Athens (Georgia)

Must-Try Dishes

Athens has a thriving food scene that combines Southern comfort food with innovative twists, including:

  • Pimiento Cheese Fries: Rich and crispy French fries topped with spicy pimiento cheese.

  • Peach Cobbler: A classic Southern dessert made with fresh Georgia peaches and a buttery biscuit topping.

  • Barbecue: Athens is famous for its delicious barbecue, featuring slow-cooked meats and tangy sauces.

Local Beverages

Athens is also known for its vibrant beverage scene and craft breweries, including:

  • Terrapin Beer Company: A popular local brewery known for its unique beers and laid-back vibe.

  • Jittery Joe’s Coffee: This local coffee roaster has been a staple of the Athens coffee scene for years.

Where to Stay in Athens (Georgia): Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are plenty of options for accommodations in Athens, including:

  • Graduate Athens: A stylish boutique hotel located in the heart of downtown Athens.

  • Hotel Indigo Athens Downtown - Univ Area: A modern hotel with comfortable rooms and great amenities.

  • The University of Georgia Center for Continuing Education & Hotel: A comfortable and affordable option located on the University of Georgia’s campus.

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

Some of the best souvenirs to bring home from Athens include:

  • Athens T-Shirts and Apparel: Show off your Athens pride with a souvenir T-shirt or sweatshirt.

  • Georgia Peaches: Bring home a taste of Georgia with fresh peaches from a local farmers’ market.

  • Local Crafts and Artwork: Pick up a unique piece of locally made art or craft at one of Athens’ many artisan markets.

Local Culture and Customs of Athens (Georgia)

Athens is known for its laid-back vibe and friendly people. The city is home to the University of Georgia, which adds to its youthful energy and creative community.

Best Time to Visit Athens (Georgia)

The best time to visit Athens is in the spring (March - May) or fall (September - November), when the weather is mild and pleasant.

Do’s and Don’ts of Athens (Georgia)

Do:

  • Do explore the city’s cultural attractions and natural beauty.

  • Do try the delicious local cuisine.

  • Do support local businesses and artisans.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or damage the city’s natural resources.

  • Don’t be disrespectful or rude to locals or cultural institutions.

  • Don’t ignore safety precautions or warnings.

Safety and Health

Safety in Athens (Georgia)

Athens is generally a safe city, but it’s always important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings.

Health in Athens (Georgia)

Athens has excellent healthcare facilities, including the Piedmont Athens Regional Medical Center.

Getting to Athens (Georgia): Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Athens (Georgia)

The nearest airport to Athens is the Athens-Ben Epps Airport, but most travelers fly into Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport and take a shuttle bus or rental car to Athens.

Bus Stations Near Athens (Georgia)

Athens is served by Greyhound and Megabus, both of which have stations in the city.

Other Options

There are also several car rental companies in Athens, including Enterprise, Avis, and Budget.

How to Get Around in Athens (Georgia)

Athens is a relatively small city, so walking and biking are popular modes of transportation, but there are also several taxi services and ride-sharing apps available, including Uber and Lyft.

Where to Go Next from Athens (Georgia): Nearby Destinations and Excursions

There are several nearby destinations and excursions worth exploring, including:

  • Atlanta: Georgia’s capital city is just a short drive from Athens and offers plenty of cultural attractions, shopping, and dining options.

  • Monroe: This charming small town is just a short drive from Athens and features historic architecture, local shops, and great dining options.

Conclusion

Athens is a vibrant city that combines rich history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re exploring its museums, hiking and biking routes, or culinary scene, there’s plenty to see and do in Athens, making it an excellent travel destination.

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