Athens, Georgia is a beautiful, hip city that offers energy and beauty not found anywhere else. It is a unique college town, home of the University of Georgia, offering appealing, unique, and eclectic activities. See some of the local’s favorites.
The Tree That Owns Itself -Located on the corner of Finley St. and Dearing St. one block off Broad St. Athens, GA 30601
The Double Barrel Civil War cannon One of Athens most prized possessions, find this one-of-a-kind civil war relic on City Hall Square in the heart of the downtown district. This is the only remaining one of two double-barreled cannons produced in the civil war.
State Botanical Garden of Georgia-706-542-1244 2450 South Milledge Avenue Athens, GA 30601 Three miles south of University Cost: Free (There are admission charges for special events; see website for special events and pricing) A 313 acre preserve used by University of Georgia as a horticulture laboratory open to the public.It has five-mile nature/hiking trails. Allow thirty minutes to view the conservatory and quick view, but may take longer reading all descriptions of plants. Note to parents: If you have small children, the traveling paths may be limited through certain areas as there are many stairs. Be advised you may have to carry your youngsters and ferry your strollers up and down stairs.
Jittery Joes – 1210 South Milledge Ave. 30605, 706-208-1979 A local, cozy coffee shop located in several different places throughout the city, this is a place to study, read a book, or visit with friends. The atmosphere is “Chill” and “Indie” with a friendly staff. At the main location, they offer a tour of how they roast the coffee. Access/Parking is usually limited; finding a table may prove difficult, but locals and college students say it is worth it. Free Wi-Fi, Price Range: $, Outdoor seating, Refills 85 cents unless you have a debit/credit card then $1.00.
Appointments At Five on South Lumpkin St.- 706-353-8251, OPEN: Monday – Saturday 10 am – 5:30 pm, Here you will find antiques and the most extensive luxury china and crystal department. They also have all sorts of gifts that range from $15 to $45. The owners travel the English countryside once a year to pick top-notch antiques for their shop. You’ll find regular and premium brands in their selections. Location: 1730 South Lumpkin Street Athens, GA 30606 in the Five-point district among other charming boutiques and shops.
Athens Food Tours 706-338-8054 $45 per ticket. A must! Spend time with charming tour guide Mary Charles. She will take you on a walking tour to delicious restaurants, farmers’ markets, lounges, and coffee shops all while telling interesting facts of the area. Bring your group, meet other groups, and have a wonderful experience with a warm, charismatic hostess. Food tours have five neighborhoods available as well as themed tours. Check their website for a calendar. One of the themed tours has a Romance Picnic for $50. This includes a complementary consultation to find out what type of picnic they need tol design to meet your needs for a perfect experience. This also includes discreet set up and clean up. They have additional items for the Romance Picnic at extra cost. This is good for engagements, anniversaries, birthdays, graduates, or first dates.