The Classic Center

Drawing record attendance for meetings!

The Classic Center is Athens’ and Northeast Georgia’s premier venue for meetings, conventions, conferences, performances and special events.

Meeting planners and attendees flock to Athens thanks to quality facilities, first-class service and this convention center’s location as the hub of downtown Athens’ vibrant shopping, dining and entertainment district. Meeting rooms at The Classic Center are just steps away from over 1,700 hotel rooms and a wide array of entertainment options.

The Classic Center offers a range of meeting spaces in both size and character. From stately ballrooms and a grand theatre to restored historic reception spaces and charming banquet halls, planners can craft an event that will reflect whatever personality and style is desired.

The Classic Center hosts events of over 8,000 in the Akins Ford Arena and 6,000 in the primary convention center, which has 373,000 sq. ft. of event space including prefunction space. There is also outdoor pavilion space. On-site catering, audiovisual, security, registration and marketing provide a complete package of servicing to ensure your event’s success.

New Akins Ford Arena

There is now one more reason to choose Athens for your meeting or convention-- Akins Ford Arena opened in December 2024 and holds up to 8,500 for large keynote general sessions, trade shows, indoor sports, live music and more.

Plus, you'll only find in Athens:  The Georgia Music Collections from the University of Georgia Libraries, a permanent, larger-than-life interactive exhibit located in the arena concourse, will immediately capture attention and draw in event attendees by giving them a true sense of place in this destination known for its music scene.

The Classic Center Meeting Space Highlights

• Grand Hall: (54,300 sq. ft.)
  A perfect destination for trade shows, meetings and breakout sessions, indoor sporting events like volleyball and gymnastics or even a large wedding.

• Athena Ballroom: (17,615 sq. ft.)
  A versatile and sophisticated space featuring wall-to-wall carpet and crystal chandeliers.

• Atrium: (8,400 sq. ft.)
  Modeled after the open, classic design of Grand Central Station, with floor-to-ceiling windows that display majestic views of Athens.

• 130 Foundry St. Building: (8,500 sq. ft.)
  Award-winning renovated historic space with exposed brick walls, wooden beam ceilings and original warehouse doors.

• 440 Foundry Pavilion: (22,000 sq. ft.)
  A top choice for an outdoor, downtown event, tailgating, even ice-skating in the winter.

• The Classic Center Theatre: (2,100 seats)
  Well-appointed 2,100 seat performing arts theatre with an impressive lineup of talent, plus available for private events.

• Akins Ford Arena: (54,025 sq. ft.)
  A multi-function space that can easily transform from an indoor sporting facility (including removable ice rink) to a concert venue.
   

Akins Ford Arena Specs, Capacities, and Amenities

Learn More About Meeting in Athens and The Classic Center

The Classic Center Updates