Athens Clarke County Travel Guide

This northern Georgia college town is best known as the home of the University of Georgia, as well as for all of its southern charm and antebellum architecture.

Things to Do in Athens Clarke County

The town may have a small town feel, but there’s so much to do, you’ll never be bored. Stroll through the halls of the Athens Institute for Contemporary Art or the Georgia Museum of Art, or visit the 300 acres of plant life at the State Botanical Garden of Georgia, part of the University of Georgia’s system.

Birchmore Trail is a perfect escape from the busy center of Athens. The mile-long path is ideal for walking jogging or biking. For more nature, head to Sandy Creek Nature Center, where you’ll find over 200 acres of land, a planetarium, hiking trails, live animal exhibits inside the 19th-century log cabin on the grounds, and dozens of species of plant and wildlife.

Locals tend to be friendly, hard-working professionals. The streets are full of charming cafes and quaint, unique shops.

Best Time to Visit Athens Clarke County

The best time to visit the town is in the spring or fall to enjoy the best of the weather and avoid the heat of the summer and cold of the winter. Fall is also when University of Georgia’s football season happens -- a can’t-miss for college football fans.