Arts and Culture in Athens, GA

The city of Athens, Georgia is known far and wide for its thriving art scene, even housing the Georgia Museum of Art – the official state art museum of Georgia. From vibrant murals to exciting theatrical productions, you’ll discover plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in the arts with a visit to Athens.

Art Museums and Galleries

Galleries and museums abound throughout Athens. Consider kicking off your tour of the city with a visit to the Georgia Museum of Art on the University of Georgia campus. Established in 1945, the Georgia Museum of Art houses more than 10,000 unique works and is free to visit. Then, venture downtown to discover the city’s other unique establishments, including the Lyndon House Arts Center, a community visual arts complex that allows visitors to enjoy expansive galleries, a variety of workshops and even a children's wing. Round out your day with a trip to Ciné – Athens’ local art-house cinema – where you can check out independent and international films, film festival darlings and beloved classics.

Performing Arts in Athens

Theater connoisseurs and classical music fans alike should make time for a visit to The Classic Center Theatre, which seats 2,090 guests and plays host not only to the Athens Symphony Orchestra, but to a wide variety of touring musical acts and Broadway productions. Just minutes away, the UGA Performing Arts Center and UGA Fine Arts Theatre offer an equally diverse lineup, booking top tier talent from a range of music and dance genres. And don't forget options such as Athens Creative Theatre or Town & Gown Players, where you can experience all the best our local theatre scene has to offer in a more intimate setting.

Athens’ Public Art

Even if there’s no time to work a museum visit or theatrical performance into your itinerary, you can still gain a glimpse into the city’s artistic side thanks to several public works placed throughout Athens. See if you can spot Athens’ entire collection of unique bulldog statues, and keep an eye out for the city’s many colorful murals. And if you're headed to Memorial Park and Bear Hollow Zoo, you can also enjoy the work of local sculptor Harold Rittenberry, Jr. alongside trails, swimming and more.

Assemble Your Athens Itinerary

Whether you’re planning a weeklong getaway or a quick visit, don’t depart without spending a little time with the city’s exciting attractions. Not sure where to begin? Take advantage of the arts and culture itinerary and other full itineraries we’ve created to make the most of your time in Athens, Georgia.