Visitors Guide | Spring 2024

ATHENS COOKS

An educational dining experience

BIKING CULTURE

Explore Athens on two wheels

SHOP GOURMET Birdies opens on Prince Avenue

Cover photo by Sidney Chansamone | The Hub Ladies Ride

Sidney Chansamone

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8 Athens History | 12 Downtown Athens | 14 Hotel Guide

LESSON

The intertwined history of Athens and UGA history

Did you know that public higher education in America has its roots here in Athens? The University of Georgia was founded in 1785 when Abraham Baldwin and members of the Georgia legislature chartered the first publicly funded institution of higher learning. The school was originally named Franklin College, in honor of Benjamin Franklin, and is considered one of the oldest public universities in the country. It was renamed the University of Georgia in 1859 after the founding of the institution’s college of law.

To contribute to the building of the campus, lawmakers sold 40,000 acres of state land — rolling, riverside terrain — and received a generous donation of 633 acres from John Milledge, an early politician and a founder of the city. The campus was officially built in 1801, and the original area is now part of what’s considered North Campus, a leafy hilltop quad of neoclassical buildings perched above the Oconee River.

That same year, Clarke County was established and named in honor of a Revolutionary War Brigadier General Elijah Clarke, who was also a Georgia legislator. The city of Athens was officially incorporated shortly after in 1806, named by Milledge for Greece’s classical city of higher learning.

As the school grew, so did the city of Athens, and it became a hub of both culture

and industry, with textile mills, brickworks and the railroad as primary facets of the economy. With the university, it was able to weather the Civil War and Reconstruction and prosper again.

In the 20th century, the city was home to a thriving Black middle-class community with businesses centered around Washington and Hull streets, and came to host numerous civil rights protests in the 1960s. This period saw the integration of the university by Black students Charlayne Hunter-Gault and Hamilton Holmes in 1961, and UGA came to be known as a significant part of the Civil Rights Movement.

The local music scene hit the national stage in the 1970s and 1980s with the rise of major bands like R.E.M. and the B-52’s. The Georgia Theatre and the 40 Watt Club became landmark venues, and the culture of music continues to shape and define the city. In the 1990s, downtown Athens saw a $100 million revitalization that restored its vibrant, small-town vibe, with storefronts filled with local shops and cafes that draw visitors from all over. In 1990, the city and county unified their governments to become Athens-Clarke County.

It was during that time that UGA experienced a great increase in recognition and enrollment as the state of Georgia established the

HOPE Scholarship. This encouraged Georgia high school students to stay here for college and help build up Georgia’s educational system. The school, and thus Athens itself, also received national attention with the increasing success of the school’s athletic program, especially its champion football team, which draws more than 90,000 fans to the town on Saturdays in the fall.

But Athens remains a draw on its own, laying claim to a lively music culture, an abundance of art, activist movements, festivals, outdoor activities, eclectic restaurants and more that make it one of the South’s great towns.

UGA Campus | Sidney Chansamone

Melanie Velasquez

timeline From 1785 to today

1785

The University of Georgia becomes the birthplace of public higher education in America when Georgia charters a state-supported university.

1801

John Milledge, who would later be the governor of Georgia, purchases and then donates 633 acres above the Oconee River for the college, now known as North Campus.

1804

The first class of students graduates from the university, which was then called Franklin College.

1806

The city of Athens is officially incorporated.

1859

The law school is founded and the school is renamed the University of Georgia.

1862

Congress passes the Morrill Act to raise money for colleges to teach agriculture and mechanical arts. When UGA receives these funds a decade later, it expands its curriculum.

1892

UGA plays its first football game, against Mercer University, on Herty Field on North Campus. (They won.)

1918

White women can now enroll at UGA.

1929

Sanford Stadium is constructed.

1942

A Navy preflight training program operates on campus as part of the wartime effort.

1961

Charlayne Hunter-Gault and Hamilton Holmes are the first Black students to attend UGA.

1964

Stegeman Coliseum, originally named the Georgia Coliseum, is built for basketball and agricultural events.

1980

R.E.M. plays its first ever show at a friend’s birth-

day party in the abandoned St. Mary’s Episcopal Church building.

1990

Athens forms a unified government with Clarke County, creating Athens-Clarke County.

1992

The HOPE Scholarship encourages Georgia students to remain in state, with UGA’s first-year enrollment increasing fivefold from 1992 to 2022.

1996

Sanford Stadium is repurposed as a soccer venue for the Olympics.

2015

The College of Engineering opens, bringing

the total of colleges and schools within the university to 18.

2019

The field at Sanford Stadium is officially named in honor of Vince Dooley, the late coach and atheltic director that led the Bulldogs from 1964 to 1988.

2020

The College of Education is named in honor of Mary Frances Early, the first Black UGA graduate.

2023

The UGA football team wins its second consecutive national championship, the fourth in its history (with the first in 1942 and second in 1980).

1. The Arch

2. North Campus Quad

3. The Chapel

4. Old College

5. Herty Field

6. Founders Memorial Garden

7. Special Collections Libraries

8. Main Library

9. Jackson Street Cemetery

10. Zell B. Miller Learning Center

11. Campus Bookstore

12. Tate Student Center

13. Sanford Stadium

14. Georgia Museum of Natural History

15. The University of Georgia Center for Continuing Education and Hotel

16. UGA Trial Gardens

17. Stegeman Coliseum

18. Science Learning Center

19. Butts-Mehre Heritage Hall

MUSIC WALK OF FAME

COLLEGE AVE.

LUMPKIN ST.

JACKSON ST.

downtown ATHENS

1. 40 Watt Club

2. Allgood Lounge

3. The Arch

4. Boar’s Head Lounge

5. Blue Sky Bar

6. City Hall

7. Classic Center

8. Creature Comforts

9. Cutters Pub

10. Flicker Theatre & Bar

11. The Foundry

12. Georgia Theatre

13. Hybar

14. Little Kings Shuffle Club

15. Lyndon House

16. Manhattan Cafe

17. Magnolias

18. Morton Theatre

19. Nowhere Bar

JOIN US AT THE ATHENS LIBRARY!

EXCITING EVENTS ALL YEAR

USED-BOOK SALES AUTHOR DISCUSSIONS WORKSHOPS GALLERY EVENTS YOUTH ACTIVITIES KIDS PROGRAMS & SO MUCH MORE!

Athens-Clarke County Library 2025 Baxter Street athenslibrary.org

FALL 2023 BOOK SALE

SEPTEMBER 27 - 30 Amazing deals on 20,000 books.

CO-OP

now at 1190 Prince Avenue.

Open 7:30 am - 10 pm daily, featuring local produce, as well as organic, natural, and eco-friendly products.

Athens’ only community owned grocery store, everyone welcome.

SUITE LIFE

Athens hotels from high-rises to bed and breakfasts

Georgia Gameday Center

If you want to be fully immersed in school spirit, this complex in the heart of downtown rents 65 football-themed condos.

Graduate Athens

Housed in a former iron foundry, this beautifully renovated hotel features a pool, eclectic decor and The Foundry, a restaurant that hosts live music and trivia.

Hilton Garden Inn

For a longer stay, this downtown high-rise hotel offers a mix of rooms and suites as well as 24/7 business and fitness centers.

Hyatt Place

This 190-room hotel on North Thomas Street, adjacent to the Classic Center, features free breakfast, a restaurant and a rooftop bar.

Homewood Suites by Hilton

This Broad Street hotel offers connecting rooms and larger suites with family-friendly features like full kitchens.

Hotel Indigo

This upscale, environmentally friendly hotel houses a concert venue, art gallery, restaurant, courtyard and electric car charging stations.

The Rushmore

This Five Points bed and breakfast from local business ATH|BNB features 14 luxury suites and all-inclusive amenities.

SpringHill Suites by Marriott

This downtown hotel just steps from UGA’s historic North Campus offers a variety of different suites, a fitness center and free breakfast.

University of Georgia Center for Continuing Education and Hotel

If you want to be in the heart of campus, there’s no better spot than this UGA-operated complex near Myers Quad and Stegeman Coliseum. It includes a 200-room hotel with large suites, two restaurants and a shuttle service.

Courtesy | Hotel Indigo

Courtesy | Hyatt Place

Courtesy | Hotel Indigo

Courtesy | Hotel Indigo

ON THE GO

Your guide to Athens transportation

GETTING HERE

Most visitors drive to Athens while many out-of-state visitors arrive at Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport, 70 miles from Athens, then rent a car or hop on a shuttle. Flights to the local Athens-Ben Epps airport, a few miles east of downtown, are available through charter service only. Here are two ways to get to town if air travel is part of your plan.

Charter Flights

Aero Center Epps Atlanta, Wheels Up, Georgia Jet and AirStar Charter all service Athens-Ben Epps airport. Visit accgov.com/ airport for more information.

Groome Transportation

This shuttle service runs multiple times a day from Athens to Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport. There are several pickup and drop-off spots around Athens, including at the Georgia Center for Continuing Education and Hotel on South Campus. Fares range from $25 to $60, and one pet is allowed to travel with you for an additional $15 fee. Online booking discounts are available.

GETTING AROUND

Campus Bus

The UGA bus system can save you the time and expense of looking for parking, and it

travels far beyond campus. You can download the UGA app for route information. Regular bus services do not run during home football games, when the university is closed or the weekend immediately before or after a holiday.

Athens-Clarke County Transit

Athens Transit is a free city bus with 20 different routes. Hours of operation end at 9:45 p.m. during the week and at 6:45 p.m. over the weekend. Buses don’t run on major holidays. Download the myStop app for route tracking and additional information.

Downtown Parking

Parking downtown can be tricky for visitors and locals alike, but you’ll usually have better luck finding a spot on side streets and farther away from the Arch. Metered parking is $1.50 an hour with a two-hour maximum from Monday to Saturday from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., and all meters take credit cards. After 6 p.m., you may purchase additional time, and after 10 p.m., the meters are not monitored.

You can find city-operated decks on College Avenue, a few blocks from the Arch, and on West Washington Street, closer to restaurants and music venues. Parking in these lots is typically free for the first 30 minutes, and $1 per hour. The downtown area also has several ParkMobile spots and lots that

can be reserved and paid for via the ParkMobile app, which is also utilized by several UGA decks.

Most street parking is free on Sundays and major holidays and is not monitored after 10 p.m. Many UGA lots are free and unrestricted on non-game weekends.

VISITORS CENTERS

UGA Visitors Center

405 College Station Road

Here you can schedule campus tours, get directions and find answers to all your UGA-related questions. The Visitors Center is open Monday through Friday and on select Saturdays. Student-led campus tours consist of an admissions presentation, a ride on a UGA bus and an hour-long walking tour of historic North Campus. Registration is required for all guests, but self-guided tour maps are also available.

Historic Athens Welcome Center

280 E. Dougherty Street

Open seven days a week, stop by the Church-Waddel-Brumby House, which is considered the oldest surviving residence in Athens, to grab a map, sign up for tours and get Athens-themed gifts. The welcome center offers both guided and self-guided tours about Black history, local music, historic homes and more.

Downtown Athens | Samatha Hurley

eat&drink

24 Classic Athens Restaurants | 26 Athens Cooks | 30 Birdies

WHERE TO EAT

Unique restaurants all around Athens

BAXTER STREET

The Farmcart • $$

A family-run business that started as a farmers market food truck, The Farmcart expanded into a brick-and-mortar restaurant on Baxter Street in 2019 thanks to the popularity of their flaky biscuit sandwiches full of local ingredients.

home.made • $$

Modern southern fare shines at this elegant, understated lunch spot. The menu varies, but staples include gluten-free fried chicken and vegetable plates, as well as snacks like deviled eggs and cheese straws. Catering is also available for lunch platters and hors d’oeuvres.

DOWNTOWN

Chuck’s Fish • $$$

Operating in a renovated former Greyhound station, this upscale restaurant features seafood fresh from the owner’s Destin, Florida, dockside wholesale market. Along with daily specials, Chuck’s serves sushi and classics like seared scallops and stuffed shrimp.

Dawg Gone Good BBQ • $

Serving recipes passed down from his grandmother, owner William “B.J.” Hardy keeps things simple but tasty at his restaurant on West Hancock Avenue. Chow down on classics like pulled pork, mac and cheese and brisket inside the shop or on the outdoor patio.

Lindsey’s Culinary Market • $

Farm-fresh salads, hearty sandwiches and soups are highlights at this North Thomas Street spot. Family meals and weekly specials are available for takeout.

The National • $$–$$$

This Mediterranean-influenced restaurant on West Hancock Avenue was co-founded by Hugh Acheson and Peter Dale. With serene decor and stellar service, it’s ideal for lunch meetings and family celebrations. Check out the expanded patio.

Ted’s Most Best • $

Families flock to this casual pizza and pasta place with one of the best patios in town. Pizzas are light with thin crusts and salad dressings are made in house.

Trappeze Pub • $$-$$$

Famous for its enormous craft and imported beer selection, this pub at the corner of Hull and West Washington streets serves superior bar fare, catering to carnivores with dishes like the Double Pig (braised pork plus bacon), with plant-based options like the veggie Reuben. Try the signature raspberry ketchup.

The World Famous • $

“This is it!” proclaims the sign above the door of this tiny bar with a massive following thanks to its eclectic interior, thoughtful food and fun cocktails. The chicken and waffles has devoted fans.

EAST SIDE

Cali N Tito’s East at La Puerta del Sol • $–$$

The sprawling East Side sister restaurant of Cali N Tito’s houses arcade games and rides as well as huge family-size tables. While students might prefer the BYOB policy and patio seating at the Five Points location, the friendly bar service and in-house gelato counter at the East Side location are a plus.

Puma Yu’s | Sidney Chansamone

Mama’s Boy • $-$$

Consistently voted Best Brunch in Athens by Red & Black readers, Mama’s Boy serves indulgent breakfast fare like salmon cakes Benedict and Georgia peach French toast. For very thick flapjacks, go on Pancake Tuesdays. There are two locations in Athens and one in Watkinsville now, too.

FIVE POINTS

Baddies Burgers • $-$$

The menu at Baddies, from Joe Nedza, is simple: burgers, fries and banana pudding. With a recent expansion into UGA sporting events, Baddies Burgers are now available at Stegeman Coliseum, soccer and softball games, and in the fall, you’ll see them at Sanford Stadium too.

The Expat • $$$

This venture from Jerry and Krista Slater, housed in a cozy Five Points cottage, emphasizes inventive cocktails and an Italian cafe-inspired menu, with dishes like cacio e pepe and salads full of seasonal produce.

Five & Ten • $$$

Before “Top Chef,” Hugh Acheson made his name here with innovative takes on Southern fare (think fried catfish with saffron beurre blanc and cornbread with fennel pollen). Located in a historic home on South Milledge Avenue, this is a popular spot for special occasions. It’s also available for private event booking.

Kelly’s Authentic Jamaican Food • $$

An Athens classic and Jamaican-style meat-and-three, Kelly’s serves heaping plates of curry chicken, jerk pork and specials like grilled salmon and curried goat, alongside mounds of veggies, rice, plantains and cornbread.

Mediterranean Grill • $$

A local branch of the small metro-Atlanta group of restaurants, this spot pleases vegetarians and carnivores alike with specialties like hummus and falafel and gyros. Everyone’s a fan of the rice pilaf and crispy potatoes.

The Royal Peasant • $$

Watch the week’s top Premier League matches while dining on bangers and mash or “proper plates” like fish and chips at this British pub with a stellar beer list.

ZZ & Simone’s • $$$

In this upscale, design-forward space (a blush pink bar, saddle-leather booths), the folks behind the former Dinner Party put forth elegant renditions of classic pastas, pizzas and seafood.

NORMALTOWN

Automatic Pizza • $

Get giant slices (and even bigger pies) at this charming corner joint, which was a for-

mer filling station. Italian subs, salads and cannolis are also available.

Hi-Lo Lounge • $

A neighborhood favorite thanks to a cozy vibe with a sizable beer list and creative cocktails. There’s a huge selection of sandwiches, hot dogs and customizable fries, but the chili and tofu sandwich are favorites.

Marti’s at Midday • $

Huge salads and hearty sandwiches are the draw at this cheery cafe with a small indoor area and sunny patio. You also can also pick up entrees and salads to go.

NORTH CHASE/BOULEVARD

Maepole • $$

At the laid back Maepole — a brainchild of Peter Dale, the chef/owner behind the likes of Seabear and The National — diners select from bases, sides and proteins to create new twists on meat-and-three standards.

Pulaski Heights BBQ • $–$$

Locally sourced pork and brisket are the stars here, where meat is smoked daily and served until it runs out. Vegetarian dishes are also on offer, like hearty smoked cauliflower and a smoked tofu sandwich. Enjoy the patio at this former

factory building on Pulaski Street next to the train tracks. Plus: It’s BYOB.

Puma Yu’s • $$–$$$

This Thai-inspired restaurant by Pete Amadhanirundr and Ally Smith packs a big punch in flavorful small plates like pork dumplings and eggplant agebitashi. Stop by their stylish space in the historic Southern Mill complex for lunch, dinner or one of their creative cocktails featuring Japanese gins and whiskeys.

White Tiger Gourmet • $

Located in Boulevard, White Tiger serves up smoked pork, tofu barbecue, veggies and simple soups. Locals congregate in the side yard and take advantage of the BYOB policy.

PRINCE AVENUE

Farm Burger • $

This chain (which originated in Athens) sources meat and other ingredients from local farmers for a menu of grass-fed beef hamburgers, vegan burgers, salads and fries. Farm Burger opened its new Prince Avenue location in January 2023 after its farm-to-table predecessor, Farm 255, closed in 2013.

Poquitos • $-$$

Birria, carnitas, posole and more are available in the former Go Bar space from the

former owners of The Grit and Pedro de Paz of Ted’s Most Best. Bonus: A sunny corner patio.

Seabear Oyster Bar • $$

Go for the namesake shellfish; stay for the fried clam strips, lobster roll and fish po’boy. Linger longer for the frozen negroni and boozy tiki drinks. Sit at the bar or the outdoor patio; a drinks ledge allows you to set your cocktail down while you wait for a table.

WEST BROAD STREET

Cafe Racer • $

Cafe Racer got its start as a popular food truck in Oglethorpe County. Its new location on West Broad Street has a drive-thru and walk-up window serving Counter Culture Coffee alongside their signature potato donuts and a variety of breakfast food. They recently introduced a dinner menu as well, which includes burgers, fries, chicken tenders and more.

Ideal Bagel Co. • $

Operated by Luna Baking Co., Ideal Bagel serves a variety of bagels loaded with house-made cream cheese spreads. Add-ons like eggs, lox and bacon are also available.

Tamez Barbecue • $–$$

At Alejandro Tamez’s no-frills Texas-style barbecue spot with retro decor, homemade tortillas and brisket take center stage. Breakfast burritos with bacon and eggs are also a hit.

Tamez | Tim O’Brien

classic city

CLASSICS

Beloved Athens restaurants that have stood the test of time

ADD Drug • $ Athens Discount Drug opened in 1961, and the pharmacy and old-fashioned lunch counter are both still serving patrons today. Swing by in the morning or early afternoon any day but Sunday for egg sandwiches, burgers, hot dogs, milkshakes and more.

DePalma’s Italian Cafe • $–$$$ DePalma’s has been serving pizza, pasta and other Italian classics since 1988, with a different menu to try at each of its three Athens locations. Pizza is served by the slice or by the pie, but make sure to save room for the gelato flavor of the day.

The Globe • $$ Closed for two years during the pandemic, this Irish-style bar was refurbished during the downtime

and reopened in mid-2022. Traditional pub menu items like fish and chips are complemented by vegetarian options like elote corn ribs and a hummus bowl. The selection of whiskeys has been a hallmark since it opened in 1989.

The Grill • $–$$

The Grill is back! The downtown diner first opened its doors in 1981 and reopened them last year after pandemic closures. Come dine on burgers, feta fries, malts and milkshakes among vintage memorabilia and the iconic red neon lights.

Last Resort Grill • $$–$$$

Opened as a music venue in 1966, Last Resort hosted acts like Jimmy Buffett before it started serving its signature southern fare. Steaks, praline chicken and crab cakes are all on offer, but don’t

The Grill | Sidney Chansamone

leave without a slice of Cecilia Villaveces cake — an Athens classic in its own right.

Little Italy • $

Regularly open until 3 a.m., Little Italy has been serving thick and thin crust pizza to Athens’ late-night diners since the ‘90s. Calzones, subs and stromboli are also available.

campus cafes

Bulldog Bistro

This restaurant within the Georgia Center for Continuing Education and Hotel complex offers a range of food for hotel guests and visitors, from coffee and ready-made salads and wraps to a full lunch and dinner menu updated each week.

Campus Market Express

These self-serve micro markets feature grab ‘n go meals, snacks and drugstore-type basics, anytime the academic buildings are open. There are eight locations scattered around campus, including at the Division of Biological Sciences, Hugh Hodgson School of Music and the College of Veterinary Medicine.

Strickland’s Restaurant • $

Opened on Broad Street in 1960, the family-owned restaurant eventually settled on Atlanta Highway in 1995. Specializing in southern favorites like ribs, catfish and green beans, Strickland’s is open for breakfast, lunch and all your catering needs, with a rotating menu of specials that changes daily.

Weaver D’s Delicious Fine Foods • $

Made famous for owner Dexter Weaver’s slogan, “Automatic for the People,” which became an R.E.M. album title, this bright green restaurant on East Broad Street is popular for juicy fried chicken and signature meat-and-three plates. Try the sweet potato souffle or broccoli casserole.

You don’t have to be a student to eat on campus

FujiSan

While FujiSan sushi is available in various campus markets and UGA dining halls, the main location in Joe Frank Harris Commons on East Campus offers the full range of rolls, poke bowls, bubble tea and gyoza.

Niche Pizza Co.

This personal pizza kitchen originated in the Niche Dining Commons in Normaltown, but the location in the Tate Student Center offers the same oven-fired thin crust pizzas as well as Sambazon acai bowls and craft sodas.

Tate Student Center

The Tate food court features familiar brands like Starbucks, Panda Express and Chick-

fil-A. The Market at Tate on the other side of the building hosts Barberitos, an Athens chain offering burritos, tacos and other Southwestern fare.

Rothenberger Cafe

Located on the second floor of Amos Hall in the Terry College of Business, the Rothenberger Cafe serves sandwiches, salads and grab ‘n go snacks. Breakfast offerings range from pastries and muffins to a peanut butter and banana sandwich, while lunch options include a grilled chicken caesar salad, a turkey sandwich and a grilled cheese. Thanks to a recent revamp, they also now offer a limited Starbucks coffee menu.

our ingredients are fresher, our veggies are tastier, our hand-smashed guac and housemade salsas are deliciouser.

you might say we put the er in everything

we do. after all,

you

can’t spell barberitos without it.

Expires 12/31/24. Valid in-store only at participating locations. Cannot be combined with any other offer. One coupon per purchase. Exclusive of tax and gratuity. Sale, resale and/or internet distribution strictly prohibited. Void where prohibited. Additional exclusions may apply. ©2024 Barberitos. All rights reserved.

CHEFyes

Athens Cooks offers an educational dining experience

BY ELLIS GOUD

If you can’t decide between staying in to cook or going out for dinner, Athens Cooks has your answer.

Established in 2022, this downtown kitchen store has something for everyone who loves to eat, make or learn about food. While the market provides a curated selection of specialty goods and kitchen tools, they also offer a rotating cafe menu, knife and scissor sharpening, summer cooking camps and the main event: interactive cooking classes.

These experiences range from handson workshops to educational dinner parties, covering dishes like handrolled sushi, chicken and chorizo paella

or a full Indian buffet. Several classes are available every month, with prices ranging from $75 to $125.

Athens Cooks was founded by Courtney Nelson and Grady Thrasher. As two teachers who love food, it felt natural to make dining an educational experience.

“We’re trying to encompass all aspects of what it means to cook, from sharing a meal with friends to learning how to do techniques.” Thrasher said. “Cooking is a part of everyone’s life.”

One of Athens Cooks’ core beliefs is that “Families and communities need to be brought back together, and food is the way to do that.”

This mission of togetherness is represented by the large dining table in the middle of the room where participants gather during cooking classes and dinners. It’s the centerpiece of the store, inviting guests to take a seat, but the food served on it is just as essential.

“The ingredients are really important to our experience,” Thrasher said. “We always look towards providing organic and humanely treated products.”

Sourcing local ingredients is just one way Athens Cooks supports small businesses in the community. Their classes regularly feature collaborations with local chefs and beloved Athens brands.

Athens Cooks | All photos by Melanie Velasquez

Executive Chef Hunter White recently taught the Athentic Beer Dinner class alongside Paul Skinner, co-founder of Athentic Brewing Company, and Derek Heersink, head brewer. This interactive threecourse meal taught guests how to pair different beers from Athentic’s selection with meals curated by White.

“It’s really about small businesses working together,” White said.

White has been cooking for eight years and teaches many of the cooking classes that Athens Cooks offers. For him, he prioritizes teaching guests practical techniques that they’ll use for years to come.

As guests congregate around the table making a new dish, they’re also making new connections with the people around them, whether that be with fellow participants, the chef, or the small business owner being highlighted.

“The community’s around us, so we feel well supported,” Skinner said.

Athens Cooks has grown considerably since opening as a retail store in 2022, but they have no plans to slow down. In the future, the store plans to start hosting cooking competitions between local chefs and hopes to have catering options available later this year.

“Families and communities need to be brought back together, and food is the way to do that.”

Don’t talk to me until I’ve had my

COFFEE & TEA

@local. Coffee House & Study Lounge

Inspired by ‘90s coffee shops, this newer downtown cafe offers coffee, tea, soda, snacks and more than 40 flavors to customize your drink. In the heart of Athens nightlife on the corner of College Avenue and East Clayton Street, @local. also hosts live music, trivia and open mic nights.

1000 Faces Coffee

Backed by its founder’s decades of traveling the world, this fair-trade roasting company prioritizes relationships with countries of origin and sustainable coffee consumption. The cafe on North Thomas Street has become an Athens staple, offering artisanal brews and baked goods.

Bubble Cafe

String lights and floral garlands welcome you into this cozy cafe offering dozens of Taiwanese tea drinks and a full lunch and dinner menu. People flock to Bubble Cafe for the food and drinks alike, stopping by for a quick meal, caffeine boost or a quintessential end-of-day treat. It’s also a comfortable spot to work or study just steps from North Campus.

Buvez

This Euro-style cafe on Barber Street serves coffee, tea and craft sodas during the day and cocktails, wine and beer from around the world

Mango green tea from Bubble Cafe | Sidney Chansamone

at night. Their breakfast bagel menu is also a highlight. Buvez doubles as a music venue, hosting local bands and improv shows every week.

Choco Pronto

When this Baxter Street cafe opened in December 2022, it immediately began connecting and collaborating with the community. Alongside its selection of Ecuadorian coffee, Choco Pronto also serves Independent Baking Co. pastries, Tamez Barbecue breakfast burritos, Figment Kombucha and salads from home.made. Acoustic sets by local bands and vintage clothing pop-ups are also regular occurrences.

Condor Chocolates

The predecessor and sister business of Choco Pronto, Condor is known for its Ecuadorian chocolates and truffles. They also serve coffee, gelato and sipping chocolate at their cafes in Five Points and downtown.

Hendershot’s

This Prince Avenue staple is a coffee shop by day, bar by night and a popular spot for live music, comedy and open mics. The menu features coffee roasted in-house, specialty lattes and dozens of tea flavors. Breakfast and lunch is available until 12:30 p.m., after which cocktails, mocktails, local beer and appetizers are served.

Jittery Joe’s

The Classic City’s best known coffee brand has expanded to over a dozen locations since 1994, but the cafe at the corner of Broad and Jackson streets remains a favorite. Jittery Joe’s serves a full range of coffee (hot, iced and frozen), chai, matcha and baked

goods. They also carry a range of custom blends in colorful tins, made in collaboration with local bands, businesses and even the Georgia Bulldogs.

Molly’s Coffee Company

This cafe on Macon Highway offers a place to linger and enjoy your coffee away from the bustle of downtown. Molly’s serves coffee from 1000 Faces and pastries from Kiki’s Bakeshop as well as specialty mochas, matcha and chai.

Sips Espresso Cafe

Located in Normaltown across from the UGA Health Sciences Campus, Sips has both a patio and take-out window whether you’re staying for breakfast or taking your coffee to go. Their offerings include seasonal specialty drinks, latte art and a selection of baked goods.

Sunroof Coffee Company

Athens’ newest coffee shop is already a favorite. Sunroof’s co-founders dreamed of opening their own business as roommates at UGA, and now they serve coffee, chai, matcha affogato and more out of their walk-up window in the Mill District.

Walker’s Coffee and Pub

Walker’s is a popular bar across from the Arch on College Avenue, but it doubles as a coffee shop during the day. It has a selection of coffee, tea and baked goods, as well as indoor and outdoor seating thanks to its covered patio. Wednesday night bingo is a regular occurence.

Bubble Cafe | Sidney Chansamone

gourmet

GOODS

Stop by Birdies for coffee, sandwiches and hand-selected specialty foods

BY MADDIE DANIEL

Birdies, a gourmet market with a deli and coffee bar, is the newest addition to Prince Avenue. Owner Kirsten Hindes never thought she would run her own business, but when a space opened up in the old Model Citizen Salon location, the specialty food store she had always wanted to see in Athens seemed a natural fit.

“I really loved transforming this building. It was built in 1910, so I tried to imagine what it would’ve looked like if it was a shop back then, but I also wanted it to have a little bit of a modern edge,” Hindes explained.

Birdies owner Kirsten Hindes | Sidney Chansamone

Birdies | Sidney Chansamone

“This was a labor of love for them and me,” Hindes said.

The familiar red brick facade is now adorned with hand-painted blue and gold signage promising “provisions, coffee, sandwiches and fine cheeses.” The inside is bright and spacious with ornately-packaged food lining the navy shelves, cafe seating along the large windows and an old fashioned deli counter housing cheese wheels and cold cuts.

“I lived in London for a year working for a coffee company, and that’s how everything there was. Old buildings with character that had modern concepts and modern elements, but still respected the history of the building,” Hindes recalled.

The renovation was a collaboration with Character Built, the Athens-based construction company behind Condor Chocolates, Puma Yu’s, the Creature Comforts downtown taproom and dozens of other beloved businesses.

“This was a labor of love for them and me,” Hindes said.

Her time in London not only inspired her design choices but also an appreciation for her tight-knit community and local ingredients. Produce from Woodland Gardens and Diamond Hill Farm as well

“Now we have soup, salads and sandwiches, and people are thrilled.”

as bread from Independent Baking Co. have helped expand the Birdies pop-up menu over the last few months.

“We had a couple grab ‘n go sandwiches, and then we had grilled cheese, and we’ve just been growing and growing and growing,” Hindes explained. “Now we have soup, salads and sandwiches and people are thrilled.”

Recent daily specials have included a wild mushroom and leek chowder, a watermelon radish and cucumber salad and a smoked salmon sandwich with avocado, arugula and whipped goat cheese. Pop-ups aside, you can always find caprese and prosciutto grab ‘n go sandwiches and a variety of baked goods.

The best part? All the meats and cheeses in their sandwiches are for sale at the deli counter, making it easy to recreate your favorite menu items — or make your own recipes.

The shelves surrounding the deli and coffee counter stock all the other ingredients you might need. Birdies boasts the highest quality products from around the world for gourmet experts and casual customers alike.

Birdies | Samantha Hurley

Before Birdies, Hindes was trained as a chef at the New England Culinary Institute, worked at French restaurants, and spent seven years at Whole Foods specializing in cheese, wine, beer and coffee.

“I’ve done all the aspects, and now I’m bringing it all together,” Hindes said. “I’m still surprised when I wake up every morning. I have a great team, and it’s been fun to train people and teach them about cheese and share my passion with everybody else.”

“

Jumbo Chicken

Tenders

Birdies | Sidney Chansamone

Akademia Brewing Company | Sidney Chansamone

BREWERY CRAWL

Where to find local beer in Athens

Akademia Brewing Company akademiabc.com

In addition to over two dozen original beers and guest brews, Akademia serves wine, cocktails, brunch, lunch and dinner at its combination restaurant and brewery just off Atlanta Highway. The taproom opens up into a spacious bar and dining area, but patrons can also sit outside on the large patio. Don’t skip the giant pretzel with ale cheese and honey mustard.

Athentic Brewing Company athenticbrewing.com

This newer addition to Athens’ brewery scene is located in Normaltown and offers a variety of beers, from Irish stouts to tropical IPAs. Athentic features indoor and patio seating and also sells cans of beer to take home. They also regularly host trivia nights, food trucks and local restaurant pop-ups.

Creature Comforts Brewing Co.

creaturecomfortsbeer.com

With a decade of success behind them, Creature Comforts was a local favorite long before it was Thor’s (iykyk). Behind the windows of the old Snow Tire Co. factory is their downtown tasting room, where you can find year-round favorites like Athena or Bibo, or try the spring (cherry, raspberry and cranberry) and summer (passion fruit and guava) editions of Athena Paradiso. Patrons can buy a 4or 6-pack to go, sit outside under the brewery’s large covered patio or do a yoga class there on the occasional weekend.

Normaltown Brewing Co.

normaltown-brewing-co.business.site

This small-batch brewery in the historic Chase Street Warehouses offers a constantly changing selection of beer on tap and the occasional live set from a local artist. It was the fifth brewery to open in Athens and the first in the Normaltown neighborhood. They also occasionally host local chef pop-ups, so keep an eye out for the chance to grab drinks and dinner.

Southern Brewing Company sobrewco.com

This Highway 29 brewery opened in 2015 with an emphasis on Southern hospitality and culture. Patrons can try their staple beers, like the Hobnail IPA and the Red and Black sour, as well as seasonal brews in the taproom or huge outdoor space. Southern Brewing also has a packed events calendar, with TV trivia, music bingo and board game nights happening every week.

Terrapin Beer Co. terrapinbeer.com

Since it opened its doors in 2002, Terrapin has become Athens’ most widely distributed beer. Stop by this Newton Bridge Road brewery with a lush greenspace to find popular beers like Hopsecutioner and Luau Krunkles or sample unique seasonal creations like coffee-infused stouts. The recipient of multiple sustainability awards, Terrapin prioritizes recycling, composting and water conservation. Plus, the solar panels on their roof provide all the energy used during the brewing process.

WHERE TO DRINK

From dive bars to luxe lounges

Bar Bruno

A newer addition to the Five Points food scene is described as a wine-and-aperitivo-focused bar led by wine expert Greg Smolik and the team behind ZZ & Simone’s. Menu items include Italian wines, cocktails and tapas-style dishes.

Blue Sky Bar

With a (sort of) secret entrance, this bar has a speakeasy vibe and boasts more than 100 beers and a serious whiskey list. If you bring a vinyl on Wednesday nights, they’ll spin it for you and take a dollar off your drink.

Clarke’s Collective

Known for its specialty cocktails, Clarke’s is good for socializing and enjoying live music. It was renovated in 2021 to include two full-service bars.

HYBAR

This rooftop bar at Hyatt Place offers spectacular 360-degree views of campus and down-

town from 100 feet above, as well as craft beers, cocktails, frozen drinks and appetizers.

Hi-Lo Lounge

This Normaltown spot is a neighborhood favorite thanks to a cozy vibe, sizable beer list and creative cocktails. Plus, enjoy a delicious meal from their full lunch and dinner menu.

The Lark Winespace

This Prince Avenue wine bar and shop is operated by Krista Lark Slater, a certified sommelier who selects new and interesting bottles, and updates the shelves monthly. It also has a variety of seafood to pair with your wine.

Little Kings Shuffle Club

Catering to the local crowd, this bar has plenty of craft beers and a spacious outdoor area. Keep an eye out for special events like craft markets and dance parties.

Magnolias

This classic college-town bar at the edge of campus is known for happy hour specials, Long Island iced tea and shots.

Manhattan Cafe

One of Athens’ best-kept secrets, this hidden gem is a local favorite thanks to the chill atmosphere and cocktails served with zero pretentiousness. Plus: There’s always free popcorn.

Nighthawks Lounge

This art deco bar opened in 2023 and offers cocktails, wine, beer and old-fashioned snacks like pimento cheese and tinned sardines.

Normal Bar

A mellow bar catering to Normaltown locals, this spot has an enormous main room and a small outdoor area perfect for date night. Don’t miss trivia every Wednesday at 7 p.m. Insider Tip: Order from Automatic Pizza next door for in-bar delivery.

Nowhere Bar

Laid-back and known for darts, pool and live music, this bar was opened by Craig “Sky” Hertwig, a former Georgia All-American who returned to Athens after a stint in the NFL

The Rook & Pawn | Samantha Hurley

The Old Pal Wood-paneled and serious about mixology, this Normaltown bar has a nice selection of whiskeys. Always wanted to try Absinthe or Pastis? This is the Athens destination for it.

Oglethorpe Garage

Georgia Gameday Center is THE

Built in an old service station, this West Side neighborhood bar gives you plenty of space to warm up near fire pits on an extensive patio. You might watch some motorcycle repairs while you’re there.

meday

The Pine Bar

is THE place for the ULT

This upscale Five Points bar offers a substantial selection of wine, as well as tapas, charcuterie and entrees like woodfired oysters.

The Rook & Pawn

HE place for the ULTIMATE fan!

Have a house cocktail and a snack while competing with friends at this downtown board game cafe. Their impressive selection of over 600 games ranges from classics like Scrabble and Clue to strategy challenges like Catan and Ticket to Ride. Cranium and The Chameleon are favorites for larger parties.

Tapped Athens Wine Tasting Market

The concept is in the name: wine on tap. Not sure what to have? With 24 wines on offer, Tapped lets you try a little bit of everything.

Tropical Bar

Patrons can enjoy merengue, bachata and more at this downtown Latin bar. Upbeat music elevates this space for dance lovers. Stay posted for regular events with drink specials and DJs.

Wonderbar Athens

Grab some friends to play classic arcade games and drink creative cocktails at this popular bar in downtown Athens. You can also play mulitplayer video games projected on the wall.

The Rook & Pawn | Samantha Hurley

farm FRESH

Farmers markets around Athens

Athens Farmers Market

athensfarmersmarket.net

Every Saturday morning, more than 40 vendors set up shop on the tennis courts at Bishop Park to sell seasonal produce, meats and cheeses, baked goods, fresh flowers and handmade crafts. The weekend market runs all year, but Creature Comforts hosts a smaller market downtown on Wednesday nights from March to November.

The Culinary Kitchen of Athens culinarykitchenathens.com

Founded by Rashe Malcolm of Rashe’s Cuisine, The Culinary Kitchen hosts seasonal markets at local businesses. Its mission is to support the Athens food industry, from restaurants to farmers to entrepreneurs. Keep an eye on their social media pages for market announcements.

West Broad Farmers Market athenslandtrust.org/wbfm

Operated by the Athens Land Trust, the West Broad Farmers Market provides seasonal products and artisanal goods, including produce grown at some of the land trust’s own community gardens. It’s open every Saturday starting April 20 at 300 S. Rocksprings Street and the first and third Tuesday of every month at Athentic Brewing Company in Normaltown. Online ordering, drive-thru pick up and a digital directory of vendors are also available if you’re short on time or like to plan ahead.

Athens Farmers Market | Tim O’Brien

Athens Farmers Market | Tim O’Brien

arts&culture

41 Upcoming Shows | 44 Music Venues | 45 Art Galleries

OUR MUSIC LEGACY

A brief history of music in Athens

Athens burst onto the national music scene in the late 1970s with the emergence of new wave band the B-52s and remained in the spotlight through the 80s thanks to groups like R.E.M. and Pylon. “Love Shack” and “Losing My Religion” remain some of the most iconic songs to come out of Athens.

The landmark 1986 documentary “Athens, GA: Inside/Out” further showcased the town’s legendary music culture to the world, and the scene was bolstered by Elephant 6 bands like Neutral Milk Hotel and Of Montreal gaining prominence in the 90s and 2000s.

But the roots of musical innovation in Athens go back decades before then, from the

groundbreaking opening of Morton Theatre in 1910, which provided a venue and platform for African American performers, to the influential work of composer Hall Johnson, who was known for arrangements of Black spiritual music.

In more recent years, musicians have continued to forge new ground in the Classic City, with work spanning genres from country to hip-hop and an explosion of new bands thanks to the ever-growing student population.

During the annual AthFest Music & Arts Festival (see more on page 63), launched in 1997, artists have the ability to come together and perform all weekend long with

crowds of thousands surrounding multiple stages. New groups make their debut and experienced performers strengthen the connection with their fans.

Visitors can trace the city’s musical history by strolling the Athens Music Walk of Fame, a series of bronze sidewalk plaques installed in 2020 that honors those who have contributed to the town’s powerful musical legacy. The route will also take you by some of the town’s most notable music venues (see page 44).

STEPS THROUGH HISTORY

Launched in 2020, the Athens Music Walk of Fame takes visitors on a journey through the city’s musical history on just a few downtown blocks.

1. VIC CHESNUTT

2. LOVE TRACTOR

3. WIDESPREAD PANIC

4. ISHUES

5. NUÇI’S SPACE - LINDA PHILLIPS

6. TITUSS BURGESS

7. HALL JOHNSON

8. PYLON

9. ART ROSENBAUM

10. THE B-52’S

11. DANGER MOUSE

12. BLOODKIN

13. R.E.M.

14. BOB COLE

15. NEAL PATTMAN

16. OF MONTREAL

17. THE GLANDS

18. DRIVE-BY TRUCKERS

19. LO DOWN & DUDDY

20. ELEPHANT 6

21. MONROE BOWERS “PINK” MORTON

22. NORMALTOWN FLYERS

23. JACKIE PAYNE

24. CALVIN ORLANDO SMITH

25. WUOG

upcoming shows

Just a few of the acts scheduled to perform in Athens this spring and summer

February 28

Come From Away

The Classic Center

March 2

Abbey Road Live! Georgia Theatre

March 14–15

Bob Dylan

The Classic Center

March 19

Brian Sella Hendershot’s

March 26–27

Patton Oswalt 40 Watt Club

March 29

Kurt Vile and the Violators 40 Watt Club

April 11-12

Flipturn Georgia Theatre

April 12

Linnentown - The Musical The Classic Center

May 3

Alvvays Georgia Theater

May 7

The Book of Mormon The Classic Center

May 11

Bonnie Raitt

The Classic Center

June 21–23

Athfest

Downtown Athens

Your musical introduction to Athens

1. Ask Me - Fishbug

2. You Wrote The Book - Jackie Payne

3. Shiny Happy People - R.E.M.

4. Think Twice - Hotel Fiction

5. Bellringer - Linqua Franqa

6. Bob - Drive-By Truckers

7. In the Aeroplane Over the Sea - Neutral Milk Hotel

8. Blueberry Dream - The Pink Stones

9. What’s Next - Sajaad

10. IN THE WORLD - ISHUES

11. Weight of the World - Widespread Panic

12. Rock Lobster - B-52s

13. Cool (Extra) - Pylon

14. Little Candle - bt dudley

15. Like the River - Alys Willman

16. The Party’s Crashing Us - of Montreal

CATCH A SHOW

Athens is a popular tour stop and home to hundreds of musicians, and these are the venues where you can see them

40 Watt Club

While the 40 Watt Club has changed locations several times (and upgraded its lighting — it used to only have one light bulb, giving it its name), it’s a classic Athens venue. The current location, at the corner of Washington and Pulaski Streets, hosts both local bands and bigger acts, showcasing everyone from Of Montreal to The Strokes.

The Classic Center

This downtown event space opened in 1995 and now encompasses 10 venues, including the 2,122-seat Classic Center Theatre and the complex’s latest addition, the 22,000-square-foot 440 Foundry Pavilion. The Classic Center hosts more than 600 events each year between its convention center and theater, from Broadway musicals to A-list comedians to Ice Dawgs hockey games.

The Georgia Theatre

One of Athens’ most prominent music venues with an iconic marquee, this downtown theater hosts acts that draw in Athenians, university students and visitors alike. Grab a drink from the bar, climb up to the second floor balcony or secure your spot in front of the stage while you wait for your show to begin. The rooftop doubles as a concert stage and a private event space.

The Morton Theatre

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, The Morton Theatre was built in 1910

by Monroe Bowers “Pink” Morton. Located in the historic “Hot Corner” Black business district of downtown Athens, the theater is housed in the Morton Building, which also held offices for Athens’ Black professionals in the early 1900s. Today, the theater hosts concerts, comedy, dance, plays and more.

SMALLER VENUES

@local. Coffee House & Study Lounge

Celebrating its first anniversary this February, this College Avenue coffee shop has a retro ‘90s atmosphere, hosting weekly open mic nights, local talent and trivia.

Boar’s Head Lounge

Indoor and outdoor spaces make this bar a great destination for sampling local music.

Buvez

Buvez is a Euro-style cafe that many people use as a workspace during the day. At night, the small stage hosts local bands, singer-songwriters and weekly improv.

Ciné

This beloved independent movie theater hosts live bands in its downtown space.

Flicker Theatre & Bar

This townie-friendly bar has an adjoining stage that hosts local bands and film screenings. There’s a large patio out front and board games towards the back, making it a popular spot whether there’s a show happening or not.

Hendershot’s

This Prince Avenue coffee shop and bar hosts musicians and comedians in a variety of performances and open-mic nights, with an intimate space inside and overflow spilling onto the patio.

Little Kings Shuffle Club

This downtown bar offers a casual environment with ample seating and soft lighting. Live Wire also has an outdoor venue that hosts bands that can be heard down the block.

Live Wire

This former warehouse is now a modern venue with three event spaces. Live Wire hosts bands, private events and even weddings.

Normal Bar

Located in the heart of Normaltown on Prince Avenue, Normal Bar has a cozy atmosphere and hosts both live music and comedy.

Nowhere Bar

This self-described “old dive bar” is across the street from the Georgia Theatre, where guests can play a game of pool, have a local beer and catch a show.

The World Famous

“This is it!” announces the neon sign above the front door. This intimate venue is a great place to listen to local music, sample creative cocktails or get a late-night snack.

ART AROUND TOWN

Athens Galleries, museums and historic homes

Ace/Francisco Gallery

Located inside the Thrasher

Photo + Design studio in the historic Leathers Building, this gallery hosts seasonal solo exhibitions and sells prints that benefit organizations chosen by the artists. Ace/Francisco is open on the third Thursday of every month, for special events and by appointment. Previous collections include skateboarding photography by J. Grant Brittain and multimedia installations by Karen Graffeo. Next up: KASHI WASHI, photos from Varanasi, India by Jason Thrasher.

The Athenaeum

UGA’s new-ish downtown creative space, The Athenaeum features a contemporary gallery room, workspace and reading room full of books and albums to facilitate socialization and discussion around art. Renovated by Katie Geha, the director of the galleries at the Lamar Dodd School of Art, the space also hosts educational programming each semester.

ATHICA

The Athens Institute for Contemporary Art, or ATHICA, is a gallery that hosts exhibits and

performances year round. The main location is in the historic Leathers building in Pulaski Heights, while its secondary location is at the Ciné movie theater downtown. Work by Clarke County High School students will be on display in late March.

Lyndon House Arts Center

Operated by Athens-Clarke County, this downtown center hosts contemporary gallery exhibitions, classes and workshops as well as festivals and events. An annual highlight is the juried showcase of

work by local artists. Current exhibits contain ornate textile sculptures, window pane murals and even a vintage Pyrex collection. Admission is free to the public.

Tif Sigfrids

Painter Ridley Howard and Los Angeles gallerist Tif Sigfrids first met in Athens when Howard was earning his degree at UGA and Sigfrids was involved in the Athens music scene as a runaway teen. The expansion of Sigfrids’s self-titled gallery is located above the downtown Jittery Joe’s.

The

Tim O’Brien

The Athenaeum | Sidney Chansamone

Tiny ATH Gallery

This smaller space occupies a renovated one-time grocery store at the edge of Pulaski Heights and showcases a different local artist every month, accompanied by artist talks and makers markets.

HOUSE MUSEUMS

Church-Waddel-Brumby House

Believed to be the oldest home in Athens, this former residence of UGA president Moses Waddel was built in the 1820s and has been meticulously restored. It’s also the home of the Historic Athens Welcome Center.

Taylor-Grady House

Athens’s only National Historic Landmark, this 1840s home is named for original owner Robert Taylor, a cotton merchant and planter, and Henry W. Grady, the famed newspaperman, whose father bought the house from Taylor. It’s now a formal event venue managed by the Junior League of Athens.

T.R.R. Cobb House

The distinctive pink mansion is the former home of Thomas Reade Rootes Cobb, a Georgia lawyer, politician and Confederate brigadier general. Cobb was a controversial figure in Athens history; when he died, 25 enslaved people lived on the estate. The lower level of the house showcases life in the mid 1800s while the upper level holds exhibitions that include more contemporary interpretations of history.

Ware-Lyndon House

The 1840s Ware-Lyndon House is a cityowned house museum downtown. The 1840s

furnishings reflect the lives of the two prolific doctors the house is named for, while a new exhibit shares ongoing research about the enslaved families that lived on the Ware Plantation. Next door is the Lyndon House Arts Center, a community visual arts complex that includes galleries and studios.

MUSEUMS AT UGA

Georgia Museum of Art

Opened in 1948, the state’s official art museum occupies a contemporary building on East Campus. It holds nearly 17,000 pieces, including 19th- and 20th-century American paintings, artwork from the Italian Renaissance and a growing collection of Southern decorative arts. The monthly Family Day events allow kids and parents to spend a Saturday morning learning about a specific exhibit. Plus: admission is free.

Georgia Museum of Natural History

The specimens at the official state museum of natural history include 1.3 million insects, over 325,000 species of fishes and nearly 50,000 reptiles and amphibians. To visit the South Campus museum, schedule a tour; open Tuesday through Thursday.

Lamar Dodd School of Art

Painter Lamar Dodd came to the university as a resident artist in 1937. Before long, he became art department chair, consolidating all visual arts teaching and enrolling the first visual arts master’s students. At the school on River Road named for him, see emerging and student artists’ work on display throughout the year.

Performing Arts Center

The Performing Arts Center on East Campus is home to the Hugh Hodgson Concert Hall and the Ramsey Concert Hall, venues that host national and international performers as well as UGA music students and faculty.

Special Collections Libraries

This 115,000-square-foot building on Hull Street holds the Hargrett Rare Book and Manuscript Library, which includes more than 250,000 books about Georgia history, 120,000 rare books and over two centuries of UGA history in the form of publications, artifacts, official records and more. The facility also houses the Richard B. Russell Library for Political Research and Studies and the Walter J. Brown Media Archives and Peabody Awards Collection, which preserves over 250,000 works in film, video, audiotape, transcription disks and other formats.

PUBLIC ART

Keep your eyes peeled for public works of art around town, from murals to colorfully painted fire hydrants, sculptural bus stops and the famous bulldog statues.

If you’re downtown, make your way to the intersection of West Washington and North Lumpkin streets to see the Hot Corner Mural, which marks the heart of Black commerce and culture in the early 20th century.

For a unique photo op, check out “Rainbow Forest,” a sculpture garden consisting of 36 towering neon columns on the North Oconee River Greenway.

play&explore

48 Kid-friendly | 50 Local Shopping | 56 Biking Culture

Treehouse Kid & Craft | Sidney Chansamone

KID-FRIENDLY

Where to eat, shop and explore with younger visitors

ROAM

Alice H. Richards Children’s Garden

South Milledge Avenue

Located at the State Botanical Garden, this children’s garden offers an interactive space with edible landscapes, hands-on garden plots and themed spaces. Kids can learn about nature and have fun while doing it. There is also a canopy walk with observation decks, the Theatre in the Woods, an underground adventure area and a bog garden.

Bear Hollow Zoo

Five Points

Located in Memorial Park, Bear Hollow Zoo rehabilitates and cares for native animals that cannot survive in the wild. Kids can learn each animal’s story or even attend a special event for hands-on encounters. Admission is free.

Sandy Creek Nature Center

East Side

This nature center allows kids to learn about the outdoors through immersive activities. It features reptiles, amphibians, marine and freshwater aquariums, interactive natural history museums and a resource library. The Frog Pond gift shop carries locally-made educational toys.

Washington Farms

Oconee County

Always a popular destination in the fall, Washington Farms is also open for strawberry season starting in April. About half an hour from downtown Athens in Bogart, you can pick your own strawberries or check out the playgrounds, petting zoo, jump pads, gem mining and more. Book tickets online in advance.

VISIT

Athens Regional Library System

Multiple locations

Each of the Athens libraries carries a wide selection of children’s books. The main branch on Baxter Street near campus offers morning programs like storytime several days a week.

Avid Bookshop

Five Points

This book store in Five Points has popular books from all around the country and an extensive kids section. Avid hosts hundreds of events and book clubs every year, many of which are for younger readers.

Georgia Museum of Art

East Campus

Georgia’s official art museum offers free admission and multiple events for kids and families. Set up a “backpack tour” at the front desk for young visitors to get a backpack full of activity cards, touring tips and a bag of goodies. Check out the monthly Family Day events where kids and parents can spend a Saturday morning learning about a specific exhibit.

Dawg Walk

Tate Student Center

Two hours and 15 minutes before every home football game, young superfans can high-five coaches, players and Hairy Dawg as they enter the stadium. Arrive early for a good spot!

Treehouse Kid & Craft

Barber Street

This wonderland of a store has creative toys, craft supplies, books and costumes as well as an in-shop studio with art classes and a DIY station. It truly has something for kids of all ages, as well as popular collectors items like Jellycat plushies and Sonny Angel dolls. There’s even a gourmet ice cream shop inside the store. This summer, Treehouse is hosting over a dozen four-day summer camps from May to August. These programs range from dessert art classes and miniature treehouse tutorials for 4 to 7-year-olds to wizard-themed workshops and Camp Swiftie for 8 to 12-year-olds.

EAT

Buvez

Newtown

While the kids enjoy snow cones and watch the train go by, adults can sip a cocktail at this quirky railroad-side joint which often hosts live performances in the evenings. It is also conveniently located next door to Treehouse Kid & Craft.

Cali N Tito’s East at La Puerta del Sol

Five Points/East Side

Both Cali’s locations offer casual Latin fare in lively locations, but the East Side restaurant is especially popular with families, thanks to the huge dining area, coin-operated rides and frozen treats.

The Rook & Pawn Downtown

This London-style board game cafe has over 600 games to play. Game passes are $7, but they also have a menu full of sandwiches, charcuterie, snacks and sweets. Coffee, local beer and custom colorful Italian sodas are also available.

Ted’s Most Best

Downtown

With a giant sandbox and shady patio, families are drawn to this casual Italian spot with thin-crust pizzas, pasta and draft beers.

Kid & Craft |

All photos by Sidney Chansamone

Treehouse

From California surf brands to timeless pieces your grandpa may have in his closet, Kempt focuses on modern menswear in earth tones and playful patterns.

offers a wonderland of accessible trends and free

Since 1978, this eclectic shop has provided students with sunglasses, shoes, tees and more from brands like Ray-Ban, Coyote,

Founded by a UGA alum, this clothing store carries a wide selection of gameday goods and casual, preppy menswear.

This colorful boutique is ready to fulfill all your Barbiecore needs. Going out tops, statement dresses and sorority-themed accessories

MUSIC, GIFTS & MORE

Aesthetically appealing stationery, mugs, wall decor and art supplies abound in this charming Clayton

Bear Hug stocks local and internationally-sourced honey along with body care products, jewelry, candles and even Taylor Swift merch. Its wide range of products make it a go-to spot for buying gifts.

This Washington Street store carries vinyl, CDs and cassettes. Don’t miss the quality selection of

A mineral, jewelry and home decor store that’s operated for more than two decades, Margo carries incense,

Airee Edwards’ extensive

retro t-shirts to wool sweaters, Gunne Sax Andrea in pieces from Community

Andrea Avila is wearing a vintage redesign dress and sandals from Community.

beads, crystals and meditation tools to help you elevate (or cleanse) your space.

Musician’s Warehouse

This Lumpkin Street shop has served Athens musicians for more than 25 years and carries brands like Fender, Martin, Epiphone, Yamaha and many more.

Native America Gallery

Known for their handmade jewelry and gemstones, this store also sells accessories,

black-owned businesses

Absynia absynia.info

Absynia offers artisan jewelry inspired by the African diaspora handcrafted by designer Elle Lewis. Lewis got her start by repurposing broken jewelry, and soon began making her own using ethically sourced materials. Eyes, suns and ginkgo leaves are common motifs in her designs.

Chalises Heavenly Inspired www.chalises.com

Founder Adrienne Chappell makes natural skin and hair care products like homemade soaps, bath bars, sugar scrubs, men’s grooming goods and more. Chalises has a permanent location in Winterville

and can often be found at pop-ups and farmers markets around Athens.

MEplusTEA meplustea.com

Precious Jones has been perfecting her curation of loose-leaf tea since 2017. Her company, MEplusTEA, combines high quality tea from around the world with locally grown herbs to create a wide range of flavors. You can find their loose-leaf tea, as well as gift sets, iced teas, brewing tools and their medical Tea.pothecary line at the Athens Farmers Market every Saturday. They also offer tea tasting for private events, allowing guests to sample their flavors and take a gift set home.

SHOPS WORTH A DRIVE FROM DOWNTOWN

Appointments at Five

Five Points

Need an elegant gift for your host? Head to this old-fashioned home decor shop to discover English and French antiques, place settings, wall art and more.

Indie South

Hawthorne Avenue

Find plants, vintage clothes, ornate jewelry and mystical home goods like crystals and tarot decks. Indie South also hosts Abnormal Bazaar, a local artist market, every third Saturday.

Masada Leather & Gifts

Pulaski Heights

Irvin Alhadeff has been turning out handcrafted wallets, belts, bags and more since 1975. In-store personalization is available.

Mother Lode

Baxter Street

This eclectic Atlanta-based vintage store opened its Athens location in July. Head down Baxter Street to peruse dozens of stalls carrying retro and handmade clothing, accessories, home decor, and more.

R. Wood Studio

East Side

Rebecca Wood’s colorful, durable pottery pieces grace tablescapes far and wide. Check out the “seconds” room for slightly imperfect works for less.

STATE the Label

Newtown

Artist and designer

Adrienne Antonson offers a wacky smorgasbord of high fashion and home goods, like plaid patchwork dresses and amorphous shag rugs.

clothing and gifts inspired by nature. If you’re feeling crafty, they have a huge selection of individual jewelry beads towards the back.

Wuxtry Records

Founded in 1976, this iconic record shop describes itself as “a user-friendly retail outlet and walk-in museum of the greatest music of the last century.” Bizarro Wuxtry, its sister store on the second floor, is packed with comics and collectibles.

Shalom Silkies shalomsilkies.com

UGA junior Gabrielle Adekogbe founded Shalom Silkies in 2020, turning her passion for sewing into a custom bonnet brand. They offer adjustable and reversible silk bonnets, pillowcases and scrunchies in dozens of colors, all made by hand.

Charles Pinckney

charlespinckney.com

Charles Pinckney is a metalsmith from South Carolina. Predominantly a self-taught artist, he crafts jewelry and small sculptures out of metal, wood and stone, mediums he first began using at only nine years old. Find him at local festivals and markets.

Handmade dress from Community.

Bracelet, shoulder bag and Absynia earrings from Community.

TAKE A HIKE

Parks, trails and rivers in and around Athens

PARKS

Ben Burton Park

West Side

Located on Mitchell Bridge Road, this park features a 1.4-mile trail following the Middle Oconee River. It has 14 picnic tables and two charcoal grills, as well as a boat launch providing access to the river where fishing is allowed.

Bishop Park

Normaltown

This 33-acre city park is close to UGA’s Health Sciences Campus and has walking trails, tennis courts, ballfields, a swimming pool, a playground and an event pavilion. It also hosts the Athens Farmers Market every Saturday morning.

Chicopee-Dudley

East Side

Only a short walk from campus, this 32-acre park provides access to two paved trail networks, the North Oconee Greenway and the Firefly Trail. It also offers various picnic tables with grills.

Founders Memorial Garden

North Campus

Opened in 1939, this garden is dedicated to the 12 founders of the Ladies’ Garden Club of Athens, the first garden club in the U.S. The site is managed by the UGA College of Environment and Design, housing over 300 species on its 2.5 acres. Features include a formal boxwood garden, a sunken perennial garden, two courtyards, arboretum areas and a terrace. It’s also a popular spot for graduation photoshoots.

Latin American Ethnobotanical Garden

North Campus

This garden is managed by the UGA Latin American and Caribbean Studies institute and contains roughly 150 culturally important plants. Opened in 1998, it was created in collaboration with El Colegio de la Frontera Sur in Mexico to research the horticultural requirements of medicinal plants used by the Tzotzil and Tzeltal Maya.

Memorial Park

Five Points

Just west of campus, Memorial Park’s 72 acres cover hiking trails, basketball courts, a dog park, a playground, a recreation center and a fishing pond. It also offers access to Bear Hollow Zoo, Birchmore Trail and Athens Creative Theatre.

Oconee Forest Park

Intramural Fields Area

This 60-acre park is managed by the UGA Warnell School of Forestry. Populated by century-old trees, the grounds also offer access to Lake Herrick, picnic facilities, a hiking area, a dog park and tennis courts. The IM Fields have parking, but UGA and Athens Transit stop there too.

Sandy Creek Nature Center

North Athens

With 225 acres of wetlands and woodlands and more than four miles of trails, the Sandy Creek Nature Center is a popular spot for hiking, birdwatching and wildlife viewing. It is located off Old Commerce Road and has rehabilitated animals housed indoors, including reptiles, amphibians and marine and freshwater aquariums.

Sandy Creek Park

North Athens

This massive outdoor recreation area just north of Athens encompasses 782 acres surrounding Lake Chapman. It has over 16 miles of dog-friendly hiking trails with a large public dog park and five pri-

Bikers at Dudley Park | Sidney Chansamone

vate dog parks reservable for $1 per dog per hour. Entry to the park is $2 per person, and free for children under 4 and adults over 65. It is closed on Mondays.

State Botanical Garden of Georgia at UGA

South Milledge Avenue

Operated by the university, the State Botanical Garden has more than 300 acres of themed gardens, special collections, a conservatory and over five miles of trails. There’s plenty on offer year-round, but the warmer months bring plant sales, workshops and summer camps to the Botanical Garden.

Trial Gardens at UGA

South Campus

Located behind Snelling Dining Commons, these gardens serve as the site of a contest for the Classic City Award, where annual and perennial plants from all over the world are judged for their endurance and beauty against southern heat and humidity. Visitors can come see these plants year-round.

UGArden

South Milledge Avenue

The UGArden offers students hands-on experience in sustainable food systems. Crops produced there are used by its partner nonprofit, Campus Kitchen, and its Georgia school outreach program: “Grow it. Know it.” UGArden offers five annual classes and occasionally hosts workshops from UGA Extension. Tours can be customized for people of different ages and interests. To plan a tour, email ugarden@uga.edu.

University Golf Course

South Milledge Avenue

The UGA golf course is regarded as one of the best university courses in the country, with six sets of tees ranging from 4,3557,258 yards. The golf course, driving range, clubhouse and golf shop are open to the public, and there are several pass and membership options available.

Walker Park

East Side

This 113-acre park is located off Athens Perimeter on Trail Creek Street. It offers sports fields, an outdoor fitness zone, a playground, a walking trail, a splash pad and mountain biking trails.

TRAILS

Birchmore Trail

Memorial Park

Length: 1.25 miles | Difficulty: Moderate

Located in Memorial Park, this walking trail gives a taste of local art as it brings you through forests, creeks and bridges to get to the Great Wall of Athens. This exhibit is a rock wall built by Fred Birchmore, beloved Athens local, in his 70s. It took five years to complete and now stands tall for all hikers to see.

Firefly Trail

Athens and Winterville

Length: 39 miles planned | Difficulty: Easy This 14-foot-wide concrete trail is suitable for wheelchair users, strollers and wagons. A work in progress, it’s planned to run from Athens to Union Point with currently completed sections in Athens, Winterville and Maxeys. The Athens stretch includes a 500-foot-long bridge with an expansive view of the North Oconee River. Good to know: For information and updates on the Athens section of the trail, visit fireflytrail.com.

Lake Trail

Oconee Forest Park

Length: 1 mile | Difficulty: Easy Oconee Forest Park is perfect for those who use the UGA bus line. Just behind the university’s Intramural Fields, the Lake Trail loop traces the edges of Lake Herrick and is a popular place to catch the sunset. Good to know: A parking permit is required for the Intramural Fields’ parking lot E01 from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday to Friday.

Lakeside Trail

Sandy Creek Park

Length: 7.5 miles | Difficulty: Moderate

Sandy Creek Park’s Lakeside Trail runs around the edge of Lake Chapman, which encompasses 260 acres. Along the trail, you’ll see plenty of wildlife as well as the park’s beach area, boat ramps, fishing spots and picnic shelters. This trail also connects with the park’s Buckeye Trail.

Nature Trail

Watson Mill Bridge State Park

Length: 2 miles | Difficulty: Moderate See the historic covered bridge and the remains of the old grist mill along the Nature Trail at Watson Mill Bridge State Park. About a half hour drive from Athens, it’s the closest state park to UGA. After your walk, you can cool off in the Broad River. Good to know: Watson Mill Bridge charges a $5 daily parking fee with annual passes available.

North Oconee River Greenway

Athens-Clarke County

Length: 8 miles | Difficulty: Easy

This trail system has multiple access points throughout Athens and includes a wetland trail, wildlife corridors and miles of paved trails for walking and bicycling. It has 3.1 miles of natural surface hiking-only trails and 8 miles of concrete, multi-use trails.

White Trail

State Botanical Garden of Georgia

Length: 3.6 miles | Difficulty: Hard Popular for its gardens and birding, White Trail is one of seven color-designated trails with a good mix of flat and hilly terrain. Good to know: Dogs aren’t allowed at the Botanical Garden, with the exception of service animals.

RIVERS

Big Dogs on the River

Atlanta Highway

Big Dogs is located on the Middle Oconee River, just an eight-minute drive from UGA. Visitors can rent both single and tandem kayaks and take a leisurely paddle 3.5 miles downstream. The complimentary shuttle will pick you up when you’re done and take you back to your car.

Broad River Outpost

Danielsville

Twenty minutes northeast of town, Broad River Outpost offers a range of activities, from beginner whitewater kayaking to scenic canoe trips, as well as free campsite access for all paddlers.

Lake Chapman, Sandy Creek Park

North Athens

This 260-acre lake includes a half acre of water and a veritable beach with 28,000 square feet of sand. There are boat ramps for non-motorized boats, fishing access and kayak rentals. Park access is $2 per person.

Lake Herrick

Intramural Fields Area

A UGA experiential learning and research space, this lake has been open for recreation since 2018 after a major restoration project. It has a walking and running trail with ramps that allow for kayaks, canoes and paddle boards.

Middle Oconee River

Ben Burton Park

At this park, you can launch a canoe or other non-motorized boats on a proposed system of water trails along a meandering 39-mile stretch of the Oconee River.

Founders Garden | Tim O’Brien

Boulevard | Sidney Chansamone

meet the

NEIGHBORS

6 Historic neighborhoods in Athens to explore

Boulevard Historic District

Founded in the late 1800s, this neighborhood on the National Register of Historic Places is named after its widest street. When a streetcar line was built in the 1880’s, the land north of the Prince Avenue mansions was developed around it. Greek Revival, Queen Anne and Neoclassical-style houses line Boulevard, while brightly painted wood cottages — the former residences of textile mill workers — dot the side streets. Many of these historic homes are still shaded by the same trees planted when the suburb was first laid out. While it remains a mostly residential area popular with artists and musicians, it’s also home to Boulevard Woods Park and local businesses like White Tiger Gourmet.

Chicopee-Dudley

Located along the Oconee River between Third and Oconee streets, Chicopee-Dudley is named for the Chicopee building, a historic former mill that now houses UGA offices, and Dudley Park, the trailhead for both the North Oconee River Greenway and the Firefly Trail. The area is also home to several R.E.M. landmarks, like the steeple of

St. Mary’s Episcopal Church and Weaver D’s Delicious Fine Foods of “Automatic for the People” fame. If the sightseeing and nature trails won’t tempt you, the Mama’s Boy breakfast will.

Cobbham

Known as Athens’ first planned neighborhood, the area surrounding Prince Avenue is populated by historic homes and storefronts in an array of architectural styles. Antebellum houses and Gothic Revival cottages stand alongside some of the top locally-owned restaurants in town, making it a picturesque setting for shopping and dining if you’re looking to stray outside of downtown.

Five Points

Named for the intersection of Milledge Avenue, Lumpkin Street and Milledge Circle, Five Points is a 1920s-era neighborhood known for its unique restaurants and boutiques. Dining ranges from nationallyrecognized upscale locations like Five & Ten and The Expat to relaxed local favorites like The Royal Peasant Pub and The Café on Lumpkin. Condor Chocolates and Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams have dessert covered too. Stop by Avid Bookshop to pick up some new reading material or locally made gifts. Just south of Five Points are Memorial Park and Bear Hollow Zoo, which are favorites among families with kids.

Normaltown

Known for its alternative crowd, Normaltown was originally nicknamed for the State Normal School, a teachers’ college founded in 1891. Its former grounds are now home to UGA’s Health Sciences Campus. Locals flock to the retail strip on Prince Avenue for casual dining (Agua Linda, Automatic Pizza, Marti’s at Midday) and quality bars (Hi-Lo Lounge, Normal Bar, The Old Pal). Bishop Park hosts tennis courts, trails, fields, and on Saturdays, the Athens Farmers Market.

Pulaski Heights/North Chase

Originally a multi-use neighborhood home to clerks, blue-collar workers and craftsmen, Pulaski Heights developed along with the local railroad and commerce industry in the 1800s. Today, renovated cottages and modern homes line the neighborhood’s hilly streets less than a mile from downtown. The adjacent North Chase Industrial District includes a number of industrial buildings — some still in business and others converted for retail or residential use. The Chase Park Warehouses — former cotton storage facilities — house a variety of businesses including artists’ studios. The Tree Room offers an opportunity to take a break from exploring and get a sense of the neighborhood’s history. What once served as a shelter for people traveling by freight train is now a courtyard and event space built around towering trees. The Pulaski Heights Trail is a short walking and biking path that connects the area to downtown.

Boulevard | Sidney Chansamone

GET OUT OF TOWN

Explore restaurants, farms, parks and shops in these bucolic towns within a 30-minute drive from downtown Athens.

Comer

17 miles northeast

If you’re a coffee enthusiast or a whiskey collector, Comer is for you. Head there to pick up custom coffee blends from Comer Coffee Co. or grab a bottle of Georgia-made whiskey from Soldier of the Sea Distillery. Nearby, stop by 3 Porch Farm’s Farm Store (open seasonally) to browse candles, gardening tools and of course, farm-fresh flowers. Comer is a 6-mile drive away from Watson Mill Bridge State Park, where visitors can explore trails along the Broad River. Oasis Asian Market sells Asian snacks and grocery staples.

Lexington

20 miles east

History buffs should head east to Lexington, in rural Oglethorpe County. On your drive, you’ll pass through Crawford, where you can stop and see the William H. Crawford Cemetery and grab fruits and veggies from Strickland Pride Produce. In Lexington, visit the historic 1887 Oglethorpe County Courthouse. On Fridays and Saturdays, visit the Rowdy Rooster for a sandwich, scone or piece of local art before heading to Shaking Rock Park, which earned its name from a perfectly balanced boulder that moved when it was pressed by a hand. The rock no longer moves, but the park is still worth checking out.

Watkinsville

9 miles south

Classic City visitors shouldn’t miss out on all that Oconee County has to offer. Visit downtown Watkinsville to try favorites like Jittery Joe’s away from the crowds, or grab steak and seafood at Chops & Hops. For yoga in a peaceful but eclectic setting, visit donation-based Let It Be Yoga for a session in the barn. For something a bit more adventurous, take a tree climbing class at Wild Rice Adventures.

Winterville

6 miles east

Winterville began as a railroad town, and today, it’s the only municipality within Athens-Clarke County. The Marigold Market offers produce, food and artisan goods on Mondays year-round and on Saturdays starting in April. Visit the Front Porch Bookstore, a nonprofit that sells donated books to raise money for the library. Sweet Olive Farm, an animal rescue, has volunteer hours on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to noon. You can also walk, run or bike the Winterville section of the Firefly Trail. Then head to Little City Diner, Big City Bread Cafe’s sister restaurant, for brunch.

The Rowdy Rooster | Maddie Daniel

Firefly Trail Mural | Maddie Daniel

GO FOR A RIDE

Athens biking culture

BY ANNA KAPUSTAY

While the Twilight Criterium in April (see page 63) brings thousands of cyclists and spectators to town, the Athens biking community is so much more than just one race.

Athens-Clarke County has been named a Bicycle Friendly Community by the League of American Bicyclists since 2011. It’s hard to travel across town without that becoming evident, with our nearly 20 miles of bike lanes constantly being put to use. If you spend even just a day in Athens, chances are you’ll share the road with a biker.

Although road riding is most popular, there are many ways to bike in Athens. Walker Park is a common destination for mountain biking, and trails like the North Oconee River Greenway and the Firefly Trail and both received recent expansions to accommodate cyclists.

“Our whole goal every day is just to be happy, and to make people happy,” Molloy said.

Sarah Hubbard is The Hub’s head of marketing. She got involved when she first bought bikes from The Hub and reconnected with Molloy years later.

According to Hubbard and Molloy, there has been a large uptick in bike sales since the pandemic began. People started to take biking more seriously and the shop’s business doubled. Biking popularity hasn’t gone back down since then, so for The Hub, it’s about getting used to a new normal.

The shop also maintains a list of local bike routes that can be found both in-store and on their website. These paths are regularly traveled on The Hub’s group rides, like the monthly Ladies Ride or the Five Points Fun Ride. These gatherings allow bikers to connect with their community, familiarize themselves with local terrain and learn from The Hub team.

“Go explore town on two wheels.”

To satisfy the popularity of all kinds of cycling, Athens and the surrounding area is home to half a dozen bike shops. Of these, one of the most well-known is The Hub, located in Five Points. They not only sell bikes, but offer rentals and repairs as well. The Hub’s goal is to continue helping customers even after they purchase a bike.

Owner Brian Molloy opened The Hub after selling everything, even his car, to chase his dream of owning a bike shop in Athens. According to Molloy, he fell in love with the Athens biking community when he visited for Twilight Criterium and never wanted to leave.

“I just feel like it’s always such a young-feeling community, and there’s a lot of energy here,” Molloy said. “It’s a great place to be. I mean, our whole goal every day is just to be happy, and to make people happy. We sell fun.”

“Most cyclists are just really great people, and they maintain that sense of childhood freedom that you get from being on a bicycle,” said Hubbard.

To give visitors that same sense of freedom, some hotels in Athens offer bike rentals to enjoy Athens in a new way. One is The Graduate, which provides free bicycles for guests to “go explore town on two wheels.”

University of Georgia students are also a major part of the biking scene. Many students use scooters or bicycles to get across UGA’s 760-acre campus. To accommodate this, UGA Transportation and Parking Services introduced Bulldog Bike Share, a program that allows students to rent electric bikes via the Lyft app for a $1 unlock fee and 25 cents per minute of use. Bulldog Bike Share reports over 900 rides being taken during peak times.

The Hub Ladies Ride | All photos by Sidney Chansamone

This idea was born out of a desire to increase sustainability and have additional methods of transportation for students. Decreasing the number of cars on the road reduces both emissions and traffic. This allows class changes and the UGA bus to be more efficient.

“The increased usage of bicycles helps to decrease the number of single occupancy vehicles on campus, which in turn allows for more efficient transportation in general,” a representative for UGA Transportation and Parking Services explained. “Another benefit is that users have the opportunity to discover and enjoy UGA’s beautiful campus in new ways.”

Whether you live here or are just visiting, Athens is a great place to try commuting or exploring on two wheels. If you’re a seasoned biker, there’s a huge cycling community to embrace, and if you’re just getting started, all the resources you need are here too.

EVENTS

What’s happening in and around Athens this spring and summer

MARCH

March 3: Swan Lake

The Classic Center

Swan Lake comes to Athens for one night only as part of the World Ballet Series. Enjoy one of the most famous ballets in the world and experience Tchaikovsky’s iconic score. Tickets start at $35.

March 9: Really, Really Free Market

Reese and Pope Park

On the second Saturday of every month, Athenians gather at this free yard sale from noon to 1:30 p.m. to part with things they no longer want, and take home something they do. This is a money-free market, with no trading or bartering either.

March 14-15: Bob Dylan

The Classic Center

One of the greatest living singer-songwriters brings his Rough and Rowdy Ways Tour to Athens for two consecutive nights. Tickets start at $58.

March 14-16: Great Southland Stampede Rodeo

UGA Livestock Instruction Arena

Hold onto your hats at the Great Southland Stampede Rodeo hosted by the University of Georgia Block and Bridle club. One of the largest rodeos in Georgia, it draws thousands to watch cowboys and cowgirls from all over the country ride, rope and hold on tight.

March 21-24: First Semester: A Musical

UGA Theatre

First Semester: A Musical is this year’s New Work Spotlight, a program in which UGA showcases original, student-made works with support of the New Georgia Group Grant. Written by undergraduate Wyn Alyse Thomas, First Semester: A Musical explores vulnerable subjects like dating, mental health, girlhood.

March 29: TEDxUGA: Snapshot

Morton Theatre

UGA hosts this annual TED event where speakers from the local community offer a glimpse into their research, scholarship and experience that shapes our future. Tickets are $15 for students and $20 for non-students.

APRIL

April 6: International Street Festival

Downtown Athens

The International Street Festival is an annual, free event downtown that hosts a variety of cultural displays, performances and vendors from student and community organizations.

April 12: Georgia Rodeo

Athens Fairgrounds

One of the most popular events in Athens, the Georgia Rodeo is a one-day music festival and Nationally Sanctioned Rodeo. With popular country music artist Hardy as the headliner, the event will also feature Yung Gravy, Ian Munsick and Gavin Adcock. Tickets start at $75.

April 12-14: Linnentown - The Musical

The Classic Center

This unprecedented tribute to Athens history highlights the Black neighborhood known as Linnentown in the 1960s that was destroyed during construction of UGA housing. Written by Hattie Thomas Whitehead, author of “Giving Voice to Linnentown,” the musical immerses you in the rich culture that defined the neighborhood. Tickets start at $15.

April 12-21: Little Shop of Horrors UGA Theatre

This cult classic musical follows Seymour, a nerdy floral shop employee who discovers a man-eating plant named Audrey II after the woman he loves. Tickets are $6 for students and $18 for non-students, with group discounts available.

April 21: Beer Fest

The Classic Center

Carrying on the legacy of the original Classic City Brew Fest, The Classic Center Cultural Foundation is hosting Athens Beer Fest for the second year, which will include live music, food and of course, beer.

International Street Festival | Katie Tucker

Pip the Pansy performing at AthFest | Sidney Chansamone

Cassie Chantel performing at The 40 Watt | Jessica Gratigny

AthFest | Sidney Chansamone

April 26-27: Athens Twilight Criterium

Downtown Athens

Athens Orthopedic Clinic hosts the annual professional cycling race. The surrounding celebrations include a family-friendly festival, food vendors and BMX demos. Twilight draws thousands of athletes and spectators to downtown Athens, so arrive early for a good spot.

MAY

May 2: Vic Chesnutt Songwriter of the Year Awards

40 Watt Club

The Vic Chesnutt Songwriter of the Year Awards honor the celebrated local-singer songwriter and amplify current creative voices in the Athens area. Hear the finalists perform and see the winner get crowned at the 40 Watt Club.

May 5: Atlanta Symphony Orchestra

Hugh Hodgson Concert Hall

The Atlanta Symphony Orchestra returns to Athens with conductor Jonathon Heyward and pianist Yeol Eum Son for a piano concerto followed by an orchestra performance.

May 9-10: UGA Spring 2024 Commencement Ceremonies

Sanford Stadium and Stegeman Coliseum

On May 9 and 10, UGA will host graduation ceremonies for the un-

dergraduates, master’s and doctoral students. Undergraduate commencement will be held at Sanford Stadium while the master’s and doctoral ceremonies will take place in Stegeman Coliseum.

May 11: Lyndon House Art Mart

Lyndon House Arts Center

The Lyndon House Arts Foundation hosts an indoor artist market featuring Athens’ finest artisans and craftsmen. Browse and buy paintings, pottery, jewelry and more.

JUNE

June 6-8: Hot Corner Festival

Corner of Washington and Hull Street

The Hot Corner Festival celebrates Black-owned businesses in Athens. On June 8, local food vendors, artists, retailers and performers will set up near the corner of Washington and Hull Street from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.

June 21-23: AthFest Music & Arts Festival

Downtown Athens

AthFest is an annual three-day festival that brings local musicians, food vendors, artists and fans to downtown Athens. The event is part of a larger effort to raise money for AthFest Educates, a nonprofit that supports music and arts education for Athens K-12 students.

UGA Spring Commencement | Sidney Chansamone

Hot Corner Festival | Jessica Gratigny

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