Day 1:
Welcome to Athens!
Time to explore the Classic City! Drop your bags at your hotel and set out to explore. Check out our Accessible Athens page for accessible lodging.
University of Georgia's Historic North Campus
Cross over Broad Street through the iconic Arch and you'll be traveling back in time over two centuries, to the birthplace of public higher education in America. The University of Georgia was chartered in 1789 and the Historic North Campus was modeled after Yale. Magnificent Greek Revival buildings date back to the start of classes in the first decade of the 19th century. Take a self-guided tour here, which includes the UGA Chapel, the Chapel Bell, and Herty Field and Fountain. The sidewalks are wide and the grass is flat and even, easing navigation.
Happy Hour
Athens definitely knows how to throw a happy hour. Start out your visit to Athens at one of the local breweries or bars to discover some new styles and flavors. Really into the beer scene? Check out the Athens Beer Trail.
- Creature Comforts Brewing Company
- Akademia Brewing Company
- Athentic Brewing Company
- Southern Brewing Company
- Hybar
- Oak House Distillery
Dinner
Choose a spot downtown like FIVE Athens or Porterhouse Grill, check out Seabear Oyster Bar or Square One Fish Co. for fantastic seafood and more, or head down to the Five Points neighborhood to check out The Pine, The Expat, or Slater's Steakhouse.
Evening- Late Night
On almost any night of the week, you'll find bands playing everything from rock to Americana to blues to hip hop throughout the streets of Athens. Pick a performer and a venue like 40 Watt Club, Georgia Theatre, The Classic Center Theatre, or The Foundry from our live music listings to find a show or set that's perfect for you.
Day 2:
Breakfast
Sweet or savory? Regardless of your breakfast preferences, Athens restaurants aim to please. Mama's Boy is a local favorite known for humongous biscuits, savory skillets, plus decadent choices like Chocolate Cake for Breakfast and seasonal French Toast. For lighter fare, check out Molly's Coffee Company or Bitty & Beau's Coffee.
State Botanical Garden of Georgia
Athens is also home to Georgia's official botanical garden. The State Botanical Garden of Georgia encompasses over 300 acres of themed gardens, nature trails, a tropical conservatory among other buildings, and a brand new Children's Garden. It's beautiful any time of year. All of the facilities and most display and theme gardens are accessible by wheelchair or motorized scooter. Exceptions include the Flower Garden, which includes changes in elevation, and the Native Flora Garden, which has natural mulch pathways.
Georgia Museum of Art
Did you know? Athens is home to Georgia's official state art museum, with a permanent collection of over 10,000 works plus dozens of exhibitions per year. Don't miss out on visiting the Georgia Museum of Art while you're in Athens. The museum is fully ADA accessible, and has wheelchairs you can borrow. Tours for the Deaf and hard of hearing are available by appointment.
Lunch
So little time, and so many dining options to choose from! Check out Athens Cooks or Birdie's for delicious sandwiches, cheeses, and soups, or go vegetarian with great options at Maepole or the "power lunch" at The National. Barbecue fans will love the variety of sauces and sides at Pulaski Heights BBQ, Saucehouse, or Dawg Gone Good BBQ.
Explore
Be sure to take time to pop into some of the cool shops around town. Foxglove Plantbar has a variety of plants with knowledgeable staff, and a bar to get a drink while you browse. Plus downtown is lined with shops like Epiphany and Native America Gallery. Or if you're in the mood for a sweet treat stop by Condor Chocolates Downtown Cafe to see the chocolate being made and taste the delightful confections for yourself!
Etcetera
What craft beer and restaurants haven't you tried yet? We hope you've got time for another leisurely dinner & drink before you head home!
Getting Around
Athens-Clarke County Transit is free and wheelchair accessible! Check out their schedule here.
