What do Bulldog spirit, the b52s, and R.E.M. all have in common? If you said
Athens, Georgia, you would be correct. Located northeast
of Atlanta,
Athens is home to the University of Georgia,
the birthplace of alternative rock music, and southern traditions.
When you visit Athens, your trip would not be complete without a trip to the campus of the University of Georgia and the Butts-Mehre Heritage Hall. It is here that Georgia’s sports history can be relived through the displays, memorabilia, and trophies of the great moments in Bulldog sports history. Other items included are T-shirts, caps, and bumper stickers with the famed bulldog, Uga, the school’s mascot. For the Georgia Bulldog’s fan, this is a place sure to please!
The University is open to the town, which helps maintain a relationship with
many benefits for everyone. As commerce grew in Athens,
it was strongly supported by the students,
faculty, and staff at the University. Along Broad Street,
you will find numerous cafes, bookshops and espresso bars
frequented by the college students and town’s people.
While visiting the UGA campus, don’t forget to check out
landmarks like New College, Demosthenian Hall -the chapel
which was used for the early commencement activities-, and
the Phi Kappa Hall which was once the campus library.
The Founder’s Memorial Garden allows you to relax while surrounded by gorgeous flower beds, modern trees, and planting arrangements, as well as fountains and ponds. To the east of the campus is the Georgia Museum of Art and the Performing Visual Arts Center which focuses on drama, music, and the visual arts. It is also the home of the state official art collection. Visitors can see 19th and 20th American paintings, the Kress collection of Italian Renaissance paintings, as well as European, American, and Oriental prints and drawings.
When you are in Athens, your visit will not be complete,
unless you check out the music scene. Home to Georgia
Theatre and the 40 Watt Club,
Athens gave birth to R.E.M. and the B52s. The clubs in Athens
are fun places to sample new bands and
music.
Athens is home to the Morton Theatre which is thought to be the only remaining black built vaudeville theatre in America. Built in 1911 by Pink Morton, it has been restored and re-opened as a cultural performing arts center. Its programs range from gospel singing to operetta. In its heyday, Jazz figures like Louis Armstrong, Duke Ellington, Cab Calloway, and Bessie Smith graced its stage with their talent.
Athens is also known for excellent dining. Learn more about Athens restaurants and find great places to eat for less than ten bucks and the best fine dining in Athens.
While in Athens, be sure to travel down Milledge Avenue. Here you will see numerous
homes with incredible antebellum architecture and beautiful
yards decorated with massive magnolias and iron work. Many
of these mansions are now used as sorority and fraternity
houses. Athens has many restaurants boasting Southern
and international flavor. From beer and burgers at Allen’s
to fusion cuisine at the East West Bistro
on East Broad Street, and anything in between, you are sure
to find foods to satisfy your senses.
Game Day in Athens on the UGA Campus
Most photos on this page were taken by Athens
wedding photographer Rhonda Thompson. Mrs. Thompson
is a descendant of the first mayor of Athens, Henry Beusse.
Beusse was affectionately known as Captain Beusse as he
was the founder of the first fire department in Athens.
The legacy of Captain Beusse lives on in Athens as well
as many others that worked so hard to make Athens the special
place it is today.
students,
faculty, and staff at the University. Along Broad Street,
you will find numerous cafes, bookshops and espresso bars
frequented by the college students and town’s people.
While visiting the UGA campus, don’t forget to check out
landmarks like New College, Demosthenian Hall -the chapel
which was used for the early commencement activities-, and
the Phi Kappa Hall which was once the campus library.
and
music.
