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.
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
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Tuesday, May 26, 1:30 pm to 2:30 pm
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Perfect for chocolate lovers and the chocolate-curious alike, this experience offers a deeper look at the care, technique, and flavor behind every bar. Sip, sample, and discover how craft chocolate is made at Condor Chocolates' Downtown Factory
- Book here
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- Historic Athens Tour: Tuesday, May 26, 1:00 pm shuttle tour and Wednesday, May 27, 10:30 am walking tour
- Book through Historic Athens Welcome Center.
- Use code SHOWYOURBADGE for $5 any tour ticket!
GSAE Night on Broadway
Beetlejuice
Tuesday, May 26, 2026 7:30 PM
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.
🎟️ Enjoy exclusive group pricing and the chance to connect with peers outside the conference — no summoning required. With jaw-dropping sets, devilishly catchy songs, and Beetlejuice’s wicked wit, this is your ticket to an evening that’s anything but ordinary.
Don’t ghost this opportunity — reserve your seat today and make it a night to (after)live for!
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!