Hannah Smith
Communications Manager
Athens CVB
“What are three of the best cultural experiences you would recommend for groups meeting in Athens?”
Communications Manager
Athens CVB
“What are three of the best cultural experiences you would recommend for groups meeting in Athens?”
- Downtown Athens: This eclectic college town is vibrant, extremely walkable and just steps away from The Classic Center’s meeting space. Unique shops, great dining and Athens’ world-renowned music clubs, all housed in restored historic buildings, keep downtown hopping almost 24 hours a day. Athens’ cultural energy is apparent from the local artwork on display in most businesses, in addition to art galleries devoted to local talent. Cross over Broad Street through the famed Arch into the University of Georgia’s historic North Campus, whose buildings date back to the early 1800s.
- Live Music Scene and Nightlife: This town that nurtured R.E.M., the B-52’s and Widespread Panic is still home to hundreds of bands that play a wide variety of music in local clubs. Music fans from around the world make pilgrimages to Athens to experience the sights and sounds. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the Murmurs Trestle, the Chapel and other legendary R.E.M. sites, or arrange for a guided tour through Classic City Tours. Live music nightly at dozens of clubs within just a few blocks makes for a perfect pub crawl. Or hire an Athens musician to perform for your group—a one-of-a-kind experience.
- Sports Action: The University of Georgia (UGA) fields some of the most competitive athletic teams in the country; top-ranked sports action from 21 teams surrounds Athens from August through May. An outing to a UGA basketball, gymnastics, baseball, tennis, or equestrian competition is a wonderful addition to a conference schedule. For those who want to be part of the action, Athens offers a number of recreational options, including the North Oconee River Greenway just behind The Classic Center; it is perfect for a quick stroll, jog or run before or after conference sessions.