Dozen Distinctive Destinations
Athens, GA
Year Listed: 2009
Athens? vibrant downtown is a popular gathering place bustling with activity at all hours of the day and night. A waitress serves up Terrapin Beer from the local brewery, which is open for public tour.
Credit: Athens Downtown Development Authority
The vibrant city of Athens, Georgia, is known for its distinct blend of traditional heritage and trend-setting southern culture, a mix of historic attractions, a dynamic downtown and a lively music scene. Athens, called the "classic city" because of its name and neo-classical architecture, is home to the University of Georgia and a growing artistic community.
Architecture & History
There is no shortage of architectural gems in Athens – there are 16 neighborhoods on the National Register of Historic Places, including four house museums open for public tour. Guided and self-guided audio and podcast tours provide a glimpse into Athens' past, including a driving tour of 21 significant African American heritage sites. Athens is a notable stop on Georgia's Antebellum Trail, both for the extent of architecture that was spared during Sherman's March to the Sea and for the number of Confederate leaders whose homes were located in the area. The Milledge Avenue historic district, one mile from downtown, is home to Athens' most impressive residential architecture. From stately Greek Revival homes to a mid-century modern gas station, the neighborhood is also ideal for antique shopping, fine dining and architectural sightseeing.
Art & Music
Athens has earned a national reputation for its vibrant performing and visual arts scene. In addition to numerous art galleries and the Georgia Museum of Art, Athens lays claim to an unrivalled musical legacy. The city is a popular stop on the Georgia Music Trail, which winds its way through the state, highlighting destinations associated with Georgia's rich and storied musical history. Homegrown bands include R.E.M. and The B-52s and hundreds of new bands play live music nightly in intimate downtown clubs, classic concert halls, and bustling bars. World-famous venues include the 40 Watt Club and the Georgia Theatre.
Around Town
Athens is an ideal hub for quick and easy excursions to nearby areas that showcase the best of Georgia's natural resources and attractions. It is a featured stop on regional driving trails, including Georgia's Civil War Heartland Trail, which includes sites in Athens such as the world's only double-barreled cannon and the Cook and Brothers Armory, where Civil War rifles were manufactured; additionally, Historic 441, a federal highway from Lake City, Tennessee to Miami, Florida that recalls the days of travel before interstates.
For nearly 30 years, the revitalization and preservation of downtown Athens has kept the district pulsing with energy from morning through night. The restored Victorian-era buildings that line the heart of the downtown area house an eclectic mix of more than 70 specialty retailers, 60 popular eateries and 50 taverns and nightspots.
Interested in visiting Athens? Check out their Convention & Visitors Bureau.
