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Best Local Things to Do Near Athens, GA — Coffee, Food, Trails & Live Music
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items Discover the best of Athens, Georgia with this curated list of local favorites — great food, scenic walking trails, live music, and cozy coffee shops. Each spot offers that laid-back Southern charm Athens is known for. Perfect for couples, families, ...
Map
Sections
6
Outdoor Activities
Restaurants
Arts & Entertainment
Sports & Events
Local Bookstores
Shopping
Outdoor Activities
One of our favorite escapes when we need to hit ‘pause’ and breathe: Thomas Farm Preserve in Watkinsville. This 100-acre haven off Simonton Bridge Road has open pastures, woods, ponds, and plenty of trails — from smooth paved loops to rustic gravel p...
Thomas Farm Preserve
When we’re craving a nature escape a short drive away, we head to the State Botanical Garden of Georgia in Athens. It’s full of walking trails, themed gardens, and quiet spots — perfect for a relaxed family outing where the boys can explore and we ca...
The State Botanical Garden of Georgia
When we want a slower Saturday morning, we head to the Athens Farmers Market at Bishop Park. It’s full of local produce, flowers, handmade goods, and the best people-watching in town. We grab a coffee, stroll the stalls, and usually come home with fr...
Athens Farmers Market
When Denny and I want a peaceful walk without driving far, we head to Oconee Forest Park behind UGA’s Intramural Fields on College Station Road. The trails wind through quiet woods and around Lake Herrick, with boardwalks, bridges, and just enough sh...
Oconee Forest Park
When Denny and I are looking for a stretch of trail that’s peaceful and real—paved so we can stroll easily, but scenic enough to feel like we’re getting away—we head to the North Oconee River Greenway in Athens. The path winds along the river, cuts t...
Oconee Rivers Greenway Trails System | Athens-Clarke County, GA
Denny and I both love spending time around The University of Georgia — there’s just something special about walking the campus. Some days we’ll stroll through North Campus or stop at the UGA Bookstore, and other times we’re there for the energy of ga...
University of Georgia
Restaurants
Denny and I both love spending time around The University of Georgia — there’s just something special about walking the campus. Some days we’ll stroll through North Campus or stop at the UGA Bookstore, and other times we’re there for the energy of ga...
Peppino's Pizzeria
When Denny and I want something quick but actually good for us, we go to MAEPOLE. It’s one of those places where you can build your own bowl with fresh veggies, grains, and grilled meats — healthy, filling, and full of flavor. The food always tastes ...
Maepole
If you’re looking for a true Athens coffee experience, Jittery Joe’s at Five Points is the spot. It’s cozy, local, and full of that laid-back college-town energy. The coffee is roasted right here in Athens, and they do everything from classic lattes ...
Jittery Joe's Coffee - Five Points
If you’re looking for a cozy, British-style pub with great food and a friendly atmosphere, The Royal Peasant in Athens is a must-try. It’s tucked away in Five Points and feels like a true neighborhood spot — small, relaxed, and full of character. The...
The Royal Peasant
If you’re looking for great tacos and modern Mexican food in Athens, El Barrio is a local favorite. It’s bright, lively, and always has a fun atmosphere — perfect for a casual dinner or meeting friends. The tacos are creative and full of flavor, the ...
el Barrio tacos & tequila
If you’re looking for the best Southern breakfast or brunch in Athens, Mama’s Boy is the spot. It’s known for its homemade biscuits, shrimp and grits, and the kind of comfort food that makes you slow down and enjoy every bite. The atmosphere is casua...
Mama's Boy Restaurant
A cozy local favorite for breakfast and brunch, Big City Bread Café serves homemade pastries, fresh bread, and Southern comfort dishes on a shady patio. It’s one of those Athens spots where you’ll see college students, locals, and visitors all enjoyi...
Big City Bread Cafe
Arts & Entertainment
The Georgia Theatre is one of our favorite spots in downtown Athens. Whether it’s a big concert or a local band, the energy in that old building is something special. Denny and I love catching a show, grabbing dinner nearby, and maybe heading up to t...
Georgia Theatre
If you’re looking for something relaxed and family-friendly in Athens, Bear Hollow Zoo is a great spot to visit. It’s a small, free zoo inside Memorial Park that focuses on native Georgia wildlife like black bears, owls, river otters, and deer. The w...
Bear Hollow Zoo
If you’re looking for a night out in Athens that blends good food, live music, and a stylish atmosphere, The Foundry is a great pick. It’s set inside a restored historic iron foundry, with a restaurant, bar, and stage all in one space. You’ll find lo...
The Foundry
If you’re looking for an iconic live music venue in downtown Athens, the 40 Watt Club is a must-visit. It’s famous for its connection to Athens’ music scene and bands like R.E.M. and the B-52’s. The space is small, loud, and full of energy — the kind...
40 Watt Club
This self-guided walk honors Athens’ legendary music history, featuring bronze plaques for artists like R.E.M., the B-52s, and Widespread Panic. It’s a quick and fun stop while exploring downtown, and a must for music lovers who want to experience At...
Athens Music Walk of Fame
Sports & Events
If you’re looking for a relaxed but excellent college baseball experience, Foley Field is the place. Located on the UGA campus, it offers close-in seating, a great atmosphere, and high quality baseball in a more laid-back setting than the big stadium...
Facility - Foley Field - University of Georgia ...
If you’re searching for the ultimate college football atmosphere, look no further than Sanford Stadium. Home of the Georgia Bulldogs, this venue offers the full game-day experience — from the crowd to the traditions to the sheer energy. Whether you’r...
Sanford Stadium
For top-tier indoor sporting events, concerts, or special shows, Stegeman Coliseum is a standout. This is where UGA basketball and gymnastics happen, and the venue has that full-energy, big arena feel without being overbearing. If you want an energet...
Stegeman Coliseum
Located on the University of Georgia campus, Butts-Mehre Heritage Hall showcases the rich history of UGA athletics. Inside, you’ll find trophies, memorabilia, and exhibits celebrating Bulldog sports—from football to gymnastics. It’s free to visit and...
Butts-Mehre Heritage Hall
Local Bookstores
If you’re looking for the go-to spot for Bulldogs gear, campus swag, or just a browse after walking the campus, the UGA Bookstore on Baxter Street is ideal. It’s just a short walk from Sanford Stadium and the Tate Student Center, making it perfect fo...
University of Georgia Bookstore
For a charming, independent bookstore with thoughtful curation, local flavor, and a warm atmosphere, Avid Bookshop is worth the stop. You’ll find not just bestsellers but local authors, events, and a space that feels like more than just shopping—a sp...
Avid Bookshop
Shopping
If you’re looking for the best mix of local shops, restaurants, and small-town charm, Downtown Athens is the place to go. You’ll find everything from boutiques and record stores to art galleries, vintage shops, and cozy cafés. The streets are walkabl...
Downtown Athens: Home
If you’re looking for a trendy women’s boutique with Southern style and personality, Cheeky Peach is the spot. It’s full of stylish clothing, jewelry, and accessories — everything from casual day outfits to game-day looks. The staff is friendly, the ...
Cheeky Peach
For sustainable fashion and locally made goods, Community is a unique find. They feature clothing, accessories, and home items created by regional designers, often repurposing vintage pieces into something new. It’s a perfect stop if you love local a...
Community
If you love vintage finds, Agora Vintage is a treasure trove of designer handbags, jewelry, and fashion pieces. It’s locally owned and has that classic Athens charm — part boutique, part time capsule. Perfect for browsing when you’re exploring downto...
Agora Vintage
If you’re looking for convenient shopping with lots of options in one place, Epps Bridge Centre has it all. You’ll find major stores like Target, Old Navy, Ulta, and TJ Maxx, along with restaurants, a movie theater, and smaller specialty shops. It’s ...
Epps Bridge Centre
Earth Fare is a natural and organic grocery store in Athens with a small café area for coffee, smoothies, and quick lunches. It’s a great stop for healthy snacks or a grab-and-go drink. You can list it under “Shopping” for groceries and wellness item...
Earth Fare