Athens, GA

Travel Guide

Athens showing landscape views and a sunset
Athens which includes a city
Athens
Georgia Museum of Art
Athens showing outdoor art and a garden

Discover a thriving music scene, diverse cultural offerings and plenty of school spirit in this bustling college town.

Athens is perhaps best known as the home of the University of Georgia, which features one of the country’s most prestigious research institutions. Wander around the university’s attractive campus, discover the city’s emerging restaurant culture and find out why this city is a legendary music hotspot by catching a performance by a talented musician.

Cheer on the Bulldogs at the University of Georgia, the country’s oldest state-chartered university. Stroll through the majestic red brick Old Campus and check out the famous black iron arch, which has been a university gathering point for over 150 years. Walk along the wooded hiking trails of Oconee Forest Park, which is found at the back of the Recreational Sports Complex.

While you’re on campus, don’t miss the Georgia Museum of ArtOpens in a new window. See more than 10,000 pieces of art spanning an impressive variety of periods and genres in the museum’s permanent collection. Wander through the sculpture garden outside the museum building. The pieces in the garden focus on the work of female sculptors.

Browse through the boutiques and antique stores lining the streets of Downtown Athens. Dine on classic southern dishes at one of the city’s many fantastic restaurants and discover why the city is increasingly becoming known for its excellent craft beer scene.

Learn more about Athens’ storied musical heritage. Bands such as R.E.M., the B-52’s and Indigo girls all got their start here. Some of these big name acts occasionally return to play at local venues. Watch emerging and established artists perform at the historic Georgia Theatre or the famous 40 Watt Club.

Surround yourself in beauty at the State Botanical Garden of GeorgiaOpens in a new window. View rare flowers, unusual plants and buzzing hummingbirds as you explore the garden’s extensive network of trails.

Athens is located 72 miles (116 kilometers) east of Atlanta. To get here, fly into the town’s small airport or take the bus. With a pedestrian-friendly campus and downtown area, Athens is best explored on foot.

Experience the infectious energy of this college town.

Where to stay in Athens

Athens featuring heritage elements and military items

Downtown Athens

While visiting Downtown Athens, you might make a stop by sights like Classic Center and The Georgia Theatre.

Downtown Athens
Default Image

Five Points

While there might not be top attractions in Five Points, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Stegeman Coliseum and Georgia Museum of Art.

Five Points
Default Image

Dearing Street Historic District

Live music and theaters are notable features of Dearing Street Historic District. You might consider a stop by Tree That Owns Itself while you're exploring the neighborhood.

Dearing Street Historic District
Default Image

Normaltown

While Normaltown isn't home to many top sights, Farmers Market and Taylor-Grady House are some notable places to visit nearby.

Normaltown
Default Image

Cobbham Historic District

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Cobbham Historic District boasts Greek Revival, Gothic Revival, and Late Victorian architectural styles. Explore Fire Station #2, James A. Sledge House, and Seney-Stovall Chapel while in Athens, Georgia.

Cobbham Historic District
Default Image

Boulevard Historic District

Live music, theaters, and bars are some highlights of Boulevard Historic District. You might stop by 40 Watt Club or The Georgia Theatre while you're in the area.

Boulevard Historic District
Hotel Abacus
Hotel Abacus
4 out of 5
295 E Dougherty St, Athens, GA
$118 nightly
The price is $140 total per night from Jul 29 to Jul 30
$140 total
Jul 29 - Jul 30
Total includes taxes and fees
Stay at this 4-star business-friendly hotel in Athens. Enjoy free WiFi, an outdoor pool, and breakfast (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful staff and the ...
8.2/10 Very Good! (1,000 reviews)
"I love the concept of this hotel/motel. Staff were super friendly and accommodating. The furniture is fun and having a fridge was a bonus. I'm giving 4 stars because the room could have been cleaner. Although the bedding was really nice we did find hair in it. Also the bathroom showers need better ..."

Reviewed on Jul 3, 2025

Hotel Abacus
Quality Inn & Suites Athens University Area
Quality Inn & Suites Athens University Area
2.5 out of 5
2715 Atlanta Hwy, Athens, GA
$90 nightly
The price is $109 total per night from Jul 13 to Jul 14
$109 total
Jul 13 - Jul 14
Total includes taxes and fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Athens. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms ...
8/10 Very Good! (830 reviews)
"Very good"

Reviewed on Jun 29, 2025

Quality Inn & Suites Athens University Area
Hyatt Place Athens/Downtown
Hyatt Place Athens/Downtown
3 out of 5
412 North Thomas Street, Athens, GA
$139 nightly
The price is $165 total per night from Jul 19 to Jul 20
$165 total
Jul 19 - Jul 20
Total includes taxes and fees
Stay at this 3-star hotel in Athens. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and a 24-hour fitness center. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful staff in ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (1,001 reviews)
"Loved how it is connected to Classic Center. Downtown Athens. Rey clean, ok restaurant on site."

Reviewed on Jun 19, 2025

Hyatt Place Athens/Downtown
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
The Bell Athens by Kasa Living
The Bell Athens by Kasa Living
2.5 out of 5
183 W Clayton St, Athens, GA
Stay at this aparthotel in Athens. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and housekeeping. Popular attractions Sanford Stadium and Morton Theater are located ...
10/10 Exceptional! (6 reviews)
Exquisite Boutique Hotel in the Heart of Athens
"We had a fantastic stay! Stephanie, the hotel manager, went above and beyond—she was incredibly helpful and welcoming, making us feel right at home. Our room was beautifully decorated and extremely comfortable. The location couldn’t be better—perfect for walking to downtown Athens attractions and ..."

Reviewed on Jun 23, 2025

The Bell Athens by Kasa Living
Walk to Sanford Stadium/DT w/view Dawg Friendly!
Walk to Sanford Stadium/DT w/view Dawg Friendly!
2 out of 5
Athens
Stay at this apartment in Athens. Enjoy a fitness center, laundry facilities, and balconies. Popular attractions Sanford Stadium and Dudley Park are located ...
9.8/10 Exceptional! (7 reviews)
"Host was very responsive which was great. Not the most modern accommodation or the most convenient area to walk around downtown, but as advertised."

Reviewed on Jun 13, 2025

Walk to Sanford Stadium/DT w/view Dawg Friendly!
Spacious suite with fenced back yard, deck, gas grill, fireplaces and splash pad
Spacious suite with fenced back yard, deck, gas grill, fireplaces and splash pad
Athens
Stay at this vacation home in Athens. Enjoy free WiFi, private pools, and a fitness center. Popular attractions Sanford Stadium and Farmers Market are located ...
10/10 Exceptional! (38 reviews)
Great Wedding Weekend in Athens Georgia
"Property was exactly as described on listing. Mark and Regina were great hosts. They pay attention to detail with their property. Extremely clean and accommodating. Would stay at this property again."

Reviewed on Jun 29, 2025

Spacious suite with fenced back yard, deck, gas grill, fireplaces and splash pad
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Popular places to visit

Cities near Athens

Other places like Athens