Athens, Georgia is a Southern city like no other. The rich, self-defined, and ever evolving culture of beer, food, music, art, and education has charted the growth of this small university town. Exploring Athens should be on everyone’s short list this summer for the perfect weekend get-away.
With globally renowned recording artists such as REM and the iconic B-52’s, music has always been at the center of the Athens cultural explosion. From AthFest to PorchFest, the city is alive with art, music and a vibe that is inclusive and welcoming to everyone.
The Athens Cultural Affairs Commission and its mission “to foster the development and enjoyment of performing, visual, cultural and other arts in the Athens-Clarke County community” has done its job well. Home to the Georgia State Museum and its impressive collection, there are also local galleries representing local and national artists. There are 29 urban murals gracing most every building throughout the city. Fire hydrants are painted by award-winning artists. Mosaics enliven the base of lampposts, and art brightens the city’s bus shelters. Even the restrooms in most restaurants and breweries feature pop-up galleries offering “yet to be discovered” masterpieces from local artists.
Art and beer collide in Athens. Probably one of the most famous craft beer destinations in Southeast, Athens is not only home Terrapin and Creature Comforts, but also to a whole host of other breweries that dot the newest attraction: The Athens Beer Trail. Akademia, Athentic, Normaltown, and Southern Brewing Company not only serve some of the most memorable and varied styles of beer in Georgia, but they are also the heartbeat of the city. While they are all quite unique they have come together as a community of brewers to support each other and to support the city that supports them - all through the love of good beer.
Restaurants, pubs, coffee houses, and bakeries are tucked away in every neighborhood. Jessica Rothacker’s Heirloom Café is just one example of the local, clever, and delicious lunch or dinner destinations that the city has to offer. Two of our favorites are the global street food restaurant Paloma Park and the San Francisco-inspired neighborhood restaurant The National.
Come for the football, stay for the art, food and beer trail.