Whether you’re coming for Parents’ Weekend, Graduation, Homecoming, or the brand-new UGA Fall Family Weekend (Nov. 6–9), Athens is packed with ways to make the most of your time together. From incredible local restaurants to live music, farmers markets, and scenic gardens, there’s something for everyone.
Friday Evening: Local Flavors & Live Music
Start by checking in at Hotel Indigo, known for its friendly service, comfortable rooms, and prime location. From there, take a stroll downtown for coffee or cocktails at Walker’s Coffee & Pub and map out the weekend ahead.
Dinner can be a progressive adventure: small plates at The National (don’t miss the stuffed medjool dates), entrees at ZZ & Simone’s or South Kitchen + Bar, and dessert at Last Resort Grill — the white chocolate cheesecake is a local legend and the tres leches cake from Cecelia's Cake Shop is delightful.
Cap off the night with Athens’ music scene at Georgia Theatre, The Foundry, or Hendershot’s Coffee Bar (check out our concert calendar here), or slow things down with an indie film at Ciné.
Saturday: Markets, Gardens & Boutiques
Kick off the day at the Athens Farmers Market at Bishop Park. Enjoy live music, shop for local art and handmade gifts, and taste fresh breads, cheeses, and seasonal produce.
After the market, head to Big City Bread Café for a relaxed brunch under the string lights on the garden patio.
The afternoon offers options for every interest:
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For craft beer fans: Sample local brews at Creature Comforts, Athentic, Akademia, Normaltown Brewing, or Terrapin Beer Co
- For shoppers: Explore boutiques like Community, Dynamite Vintage, and Cillies (for a quirkier take on Athens).
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For nature lovers: Stroll the trails at the State Botanical Garden of Georgia or the Oconee Rivers Greenway.
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For art enthusiasts: Browse free exhibits at the Georgia Museum of Art or Lyndon House Art Center.
Dinner in Athens is always a tough (and tasty) decision. Choose from Cuban-inspired favorites at Cali N Tito’s, Southern barbecue at White Tiger Gourmet, pizza at Ted’s Most Best, or burgers at Clocked!
Sunday: A Sweet Send-Off
End the weekend with breakfast at Mama’s Boy, South Kitchen + Bar, or Little City Diner in nearby Winterville.
No matter the season, Athens offers the perfect mix of food, music, shopping, and culture — all with a warm, walkable charm. It’s a place your family will want to visit again and again.
Plan your trip for UGA’s Fall Family Weekend (Nov. 6–9) and see Athens at its best.
