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Welcome to Athens!
GSAE Annual Meeting 2026
May 27-29, 2026
Visit Athens is thrilled to host GSAE's 2026 Annual Meeting. Here are our top suggestions and tips for how to make the most of your time and catch the Athens vibe.
Experience Athens Like a Local!
Athens is a cultural hub of creative energy with live music almost every night of the week, amazing food and beverage offerings, and innovative creators. Even better? All the excitement of downtown Athens is just steps away from The Classic Center. Pick a few restaurants you want to be sure to try while you're in town, check out what events are happening during your stay, and look for a few other things to do. Maybe a friend or family member would like to come alongside for the fun! With plenty to explore from day to night, Athens is always open to what's next.
Meet Us in Athens for:
- networking at a local coffee shop, local craft beer, or a wine cafe
- staying out late for the acclaimed live music scene
- taking in the culture of Georgia's official art museum and botanical garden
- playing one of the nation's top collegiate golf courses
These are just some ways to make the most of your time in Athens!
Athens Adventures
Before the conference kicks off, carve out time to discover Athens on your own terms. Tuesday and Wednesday are ideal for wandering downtown, soaking up the city’s legendary music and food scenes, exploring cultural attractions, or getting outdoors. Whether you’re here for a few hours or a full day, Athens makes it easy to turn free time into something special.
Explore on Your Own:
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State Botanical Garden of Georgia- Explore over 5 miles of scenic trails, beautifully curated themed gardens, the stunning conservatory, and the Porcelain and Decorative Arts Museum.
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Georgia Museum of Art - Discover world-class rotating exhibitions and a renowned permanent collection at Georgia’s official state art museum.
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Self-Guided Music History Tour - Walk in the footsteps of Athens’ legendary musicians and iconic venues that helped shape the city’s influential music scene.
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Gridiron Golf Club- Take a swing at this modern indoor golf lounge featuring high-tech simulators and a relaxed social atmosphere.
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Self Guided North Campus UGA Tour - Stroll through the historic heart of the University of Georgia, home to iconic architecture, shaded pathways, and classic Southern charm.
Book Ahead to Secure a Spot:
- Condor Chocolate Factory Tour (booking link coming soon!)
- Historic Athens: We will have a 1:00 pm shuttle tour available on Tuesday and 10:30 am walking tour available on Wednesday.
- Book through Historic Athens Welcome Center.
- Use code SHOWYOURBADGE for $5 any tour ticket!
- GSAE Night on Broadway: Beetlejuice: It’s showtime! Join your fellow GSAE members for a night of outrageous fun at Beetlejuice the Musical — the Broadway hit that’s a little creepy, a little kooky, and completely unforgettable.
- Meeting Time: 07:30 PM
- Meeting Location: The Classic Center Theatre
- Purchase your tickets here.
Athens Dine Around Restaurant Recommendations
Curated by the Visit Athens team, these dining spots offer some of the best dine-around
experiences Athens has to offer. Check out our suggestions, and for a full list of the restaurants Athens has to offer, click here.
Downtown Athens Restaurants
Bookmark our interactive map for planning or spur-of-the-moment meal options in Athens, all just steps away from downtown host hotels and The Classic Center. Zoom in, view more information as the restaurant listing pops up, click-to-call for reservations, and walking directions are all included!
One Day, Best-of-Athens Itinerary
Why not arrive a day early, or stay a day afterwards? Bring a friend or family member with you and explore Athens together!