Besides being home to Alex and Marci, Athens is also home to the University of Georgia, a vibrantly restored downtown, and a world-famous music scene (R.E.M., the B-52s, and others, all started in Athens). If you're staying at the Holiday Inn, you are just on the edge of the UGa campus. You are also right next to the very walkable downtown area, which features some neat shopping, arts & crafts, and a unique blend of southern heritage and contemporary entertainment.
Athens, which was named after the ancient greek city (no, not Sparta) also has a rich history. The University actually pre-dates the town, as UGa started classes in 1801, and the town was formed in 1806. Athens and the surrounding area also feature some interesting Civil War Landmarks if you don't mind a bit of driving. The city of Athens itself has some wonderful antebellum, Victorian, and other period architecture, if that is your interest.
If the music scene is your thing, why not take the Athens Music History Walking Tour? Or if you're more into art galleries, here's a list of local galleries.
Finally, the State Botanical Garden of Georgia, site of Alex and Marci's wedding, is home to a 313-acre preserve dedicated to all things flowers and nature. It's a must-see for the nature lover! And of course, no visit to Athens is complete without checking out the tree that owns itself.
The 25th anniversary of the Athens Twilight Criterium will be held April 29-May 1 in Athens. This bike race attracts top quality racers from around the world, and will provide plenty of excitement during the weekend. The highlight is a big nighttime race around downtown on Saturday night.
This site was last updated 03/14/10
