Things to do in Athens

Find and book activities, attractions and tours

Photo by Brandi Brown
Photo by Brandi Brown
Photo by Carmen Bustin-Dinning
Photo by Carmen Bustin-Dinning

Athens Attractions

There's something quite delightful about smaller cities. Whether you're heading off to Athens for a weekend away or you're staying a little longer, you'll easily fall in love with this destination. In fact, with so many fantastic things to do and fascinating attractions to take in, you mightn't want to leave!

If you're ready to discover the best of Athens, join a few of the top tours & day trips on offer, and have a friendly expert show you some of the most popular tourist attractions. Offering free cancellations and no added fees, our top {1 fun activities in Athens fun activities in Athens} are also worth a look.

Recommended things to do in Athens

Number of things to do
1
Cheapest thing to do on Expedia
Woodbury Common Premium Outlet Shopping Shuttle: $42
Top 5 things to do
Under $25
With kids

What to do in Athens

Free Things to Do in Athens

Some say the best things in life are free. Check out the following around Athens:

Alabama Veterans Museum & Archives - Check if there are any special displays or guided tours on at this museum.

Athens State University - If you're into modern-style architecture, add this landmark to your sightseeing list.

George S Houston Historic District - If you're planning to explore the region's history through its landmarks, put this one on your sightseeing schedule.

Houston Memorial Library - If you're eager to check out some of the more important or interesting places in the community, this is a good place to start.

Big Spring Park - Whether you can separate your geraniums from gerberas, you'll find beauty in this attractive display.

Things to Do in Athens with Kids

Athens boasts loads of nearby fun activities for you and the kids. Our family friendly experiences will keep the crew happy for hours.

 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Athens? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 

 

Discover the most popular places to visit in Athens

Great place for all ages to learn about space, rockets and the brave men who made it possible.

US Space and Rocket Center

You can spend time studying the exhibits at US Space and Rocket Center in Huntsville. Wander around the gardens or experience the area's live music.

US Space and Rocket Center
On the bridge, looking into the water

Bridge Street Town Centre

You can search for that perfect souvenir at Bridge Street Town Centre during your stay in Huntsville. Discover the area's live music, or seek out its hiking trails.

Bridge Street Town Centre
The enchanted Japanese Tea Garden tucked away off a well worn hiking path.

Monte Sano State Park

You can take time to visit Monte Sano State Park during your travels to Huntsville. Amble around the area's gardens, or seek out its hiking trails.

Monte Sano State Park
Huntsville Botanical Garden featuring forest scenes and a garden

Huntsville Botanical Garden

Marvel at the colorful diversity of nature at these award-winning gardens, which feature thousands of plant species, tranquil ponds and elegant pavilions.

Huntsville Botanical Garden
Nice walking trails at the museum, great info along the way about the geology and more. Finally seeing some fall colors.

Burritt on the Mountain

You can spend time studying the exhibits at Burritt on the Mountain during your travels in Huntsville. Wander around the gardens or enjoy the area's seafood restaurants.

Burritt on the Mountain
Huntsville Museum of Art

Huntsville Museum of Art

View works by acclaimed American artists and world-class traveling exhibitions at this museum, which is set in the scenic grounds of a city park.

Huntsville Museum of Art

Von Braun Center

Catch an event at Von Braun Center during your trip to Huntsville. Attend a sporting event while you're in the area, or simply enjoy its seafood restaurants.

Von Braun Center

The Orion Amphitheater

You can make plans for a show at The Orion Amphitheater during your trip to Huntsville. Check out the shops and top-notch restaurants in this family-friendly area.

The Orion Amphitheater

University of Alabama-Huntsville

Explore the campus of University of Alabama-Huntsville, during your trip to Huntsville. Wander around the gardens or experience the area's live music.

University of Alabama-Huntsville

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Athens

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Robert Beaty Historic District

Robert Beaty Historic District is well-liked for its restaurants, and you can visit sights like Big Spring Park and Athens Shopping Center if you have time to explore the area.

Robert Beaty Historic District
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George S. Houston Historic District

You'll appreciate the restaurants during your time in George S. Houston Historic District and you might want to plan a stop by Big Spring Park and Athens Shopping Center while you're in the area.

George S. Houston Historic District
See our Where To Stay guide

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Popular day trips from Athens

Photo by Amber k Williams

Madison

Huntsville featuring a park and a pond

Huntsville

Frequently asked questions

Is Athens worth visiting?
From retail therapy to outdoor adventures and history, there are many interesting things to do in Athens. Remember to experience the area's mix of awesome sights, local charm and culture.
How do I spend a day in Athens?
Kick your day off with a visit to Richard Martin South Trailhead and Big Spring Park. Then, tour different parts of Athens for a bite to eat and some souvenir shopping.
What is the top tourist attraction in Athens?
Big Spring Park is one of the top tourist attractions in Athens and deserves a place on every must-do list of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Athens?
Three days will give you plenty of time to tick off many city highlights, like Big Spring Park, Richard Martin South Trailhead and George S. Houston Historic District. The average stay in Athens is two days. If you have the urge to extend your vacation, Huntsville isn't far away.
Is Athens a walkable city?
Some major attractions in Athens, such as Big Spring Park and George S. Houston Historic District, are within walking distance. You can also visit several of the city's popular neighborhoods on foot. Just 0.5 miles from central Athens is George S. Houston Historic District and Robert Beaty Historic District is 0.3 miles away.
What are some activities to do in Athens with kids?
Whether you're vacationing with young explorers or adventure-seeking teens, an itinerary filled with cool activities is the key to a stress-free getaway. Browse our recommendations for what to do in Athens with kids.

What to do in Athens for adults?
There are loads of things to do in Athens, with activities for adults of all ages. End the day with a visit to U.G. White Mercantile or Alabama Veterans Museum & Archives.
Are there free things to do in Athens?
From enjoying parks to wandering around exciting neighborhoods, it's a breeze to find free things to do in Athens. If you need new ideas, ask for tips from a local tour guide. Big Spring Park is a must for anyone looking to save on their travel adventures.