There’s a reason Athens Georgia has been called the Classic City: it packs an impressive list of cultural and entertainment hotspots into a compact, walkable downtown area. It also boasts a closely-knit local community, a buzzing arts scene, and a vibe that’s hard to beat. Whether you’re a seasoned visitor or a first-timer, here are the things to do in Athens that will get you into the spirit of this southern town’s eclectic character.

Explore a Historic Neighborhood

When it comes to a taste of Athens’ history, you won’t find a better place than Five Points, a historical district anchored by stately homes built in the 1920s and 1930s. This charming area offers a range of dining options, as well as various boutiques selling antiques, soaps, clothing, jewelry, bicycles and more.

Take A Brew Tour

Craft beer is the drink of choice for many Athenians and, as such, there are plenty of spots to grab a growler filled with your favorite local brew. We recommend visiting Creature Comforts Downtown Taproom and Brewery, where you can sample the delicious creations created by the brewery’s team of brewing experts.

Located in the heart of Downtown Athens, this bar is a must for craft beer enthusiasts. It features 33 taps and hundreds of bottles, so you’re sure to find something to please your palate. It’s also the perfect spot to eat, with its award-winning Belgian fries served with blue cheese, raspberry ketchup, or garlic aioli.

Watch a Game

Athens is home to a number of professional sports teams, including the University of Georgia Bulldogs, which plays an important role in the lives of local residents. The university’s football team is a perennial contender, but the city also hosts plenty of other events. Next article

Visit a Music Venue

Athens has long been a rock ‘n’ roll town, and this is reflected in its diverse musical offerings. Often referred to as the “home of the B-52s,” Athens is a hub of American pop, rock and folk music. It’s also an international recording destination, hosting acts from all over the world, as well as a host of clubs where you can hear them perform.

While the town’s downtown area is alive with activity during the day, there’s a different kind of energy at night, when students from the University of Georgia (UGA) come out to enjoy the city’s bars and restaurants. It’s a vibrant atmosphere that makes it easy to forget the day-to-day hustle and bustle, and to relax into your own world.

Make Your Way Through Athens

The laid-back town of Athens has a strong community, and the people who call it home are more than willing to share their stories with visitors. It’s also a great place to meet new friends. If you’re looking for a fun night out, check out the 40 Watt Club or The Foundry, where locals and newcomers alike can enjoy live music from big names and rising stars.

A Unique Athens Quirk

There’s no shortage of things to see in Athens, and the city’s quirky quirks are more than worth exploring. For instance, there’s the Tree That Owns Itself, a tree whose roots have been traced to its original location in 1942, and which has been respected even by locals. You can also take a guided tour of the historic Georgia Theatre, where some of the best-known acts in contemporary rock have played. Learn more

Point of Interest #1 Exxon, 290 Us Hwy 29 N, Athens, GA 30601

Point of Interest #2 United States Postal Service, 575 Olympic Dr, Athens, GA 30601

Point of Interest #3 Junk In the Trunk, 590 Olympic Dr, Athens, GA 30601