Things to Do in Athens

UGA was founded in the late 1700s, and the town grew up around the university. The Classic City remains relatively isolated; far enough from Atlanta to keep a separate identity, with centuries of quirks and eccentricities intact, yet close enough to the big city to be influenced by its modern sensibilities. You'll discover plenty to do in Athens, a big city in its own right, but one with a small-town vibe.

Music Scene Musts

Music venues come and go with the seasons in college towns, but in Athens, two have stood the test of time. Both the 40 Watt Club and the Georgia Theatre have been in business for decades and have helped to spawn and nurture the city's rich and still-vibrant music scene. Beyond the nightlife, family-friendly musts include AthFest and Wuxtry. The annual June AthFest is an Athens-centric festival that includes a special section called KidsFest, and Wuxtry is a museum-like institution of vinyl that also happens to be the record shop where members of the R.E.M. band first met.

Quirky Attractions

You can search far and wide, but Athens is likely the only place you'll find a tree that legally owns itself. This quirky vestige of history can be seen in a quiet residential neighborhood at the intersection of Finley and Dearing streets. A plaque gives a brief description of the white oak's self-ownership. Another one-of-a-kind relic from Athens' storied past is the double-barreled canon on permanent display outside of City Hall. Forged during the Civil War, the canon was test fired and proved to be an uncontrollable disaster of a weapon that was never used in battle.

Legendary Grub

The Classic City is filled with trendy, fancy restaurants—none of which will impress the kids too much. Take them to The Varsity instead, where they can enjoy the quality burgers, dogs, fries and onion rings that this longstanding drive-in serves. In business since 1932, the fries here are hand-cut, the rings hand-dipped, and the buns fresh-baked. Order an F.O.—frosted orange—and thank us later. For healthier eats, head to The Grit. This vegetarian restaurant is known for its homey vibe and Southern comfort food so tasty that even carnivores crave it!

Get Out!

Athens provides plenty of options for getting your fill of nature. Hike miles of trails through woodlands and wetlands at the Sandy Creek Nature Center and the State Botanical Garden of Georgia. Admission is free at both facilities, which also offer special outdoor activities for kids, educational interpretative exhibits and the chance to observe wildlife. Bike, jog or hike along the North Oconee River Greenway. This paved multi-use path runs for nearly four miles along the shady banks of the North Oconee River that winds through the east side of town.

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