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16 Mar 2025Updated last time
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Athens, GA 2 Days Itinerary

Explore Athens, GA in 2 Days

Welcome to Athens, GA, a city that combines Southern charm with vibrant cultural experiences. Whether you’re a lover of the outdoors, a history aficionado, or a beer enthusiast, Athens has something for everyone. Start your trip with a visit to the State Botanical Garden of Georgia, where beautiful gardens and tranquil trails await. It's a peaceful place to immerse yourself in nature and unwind. Next, head over to the Georgia Museum of Art, the official art museum of the state, showcasing an impressive collection that spans centuries. You’ll be able to appreciate both classic and contemporary art in a world-class setting.

The heart of the city, Downtown Athens, is not to be missed. Known for its lively music scene, eclectic boutiques, and diverse dining options, it's the perfect place to experience the local culture. Your second day can start with a visit to Bear Hollow Zoo, an enriching experience for families and animal lovers, offering a unique opportunity to see native Georgian wildlife up close. Following that, immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Sandy Creek Nature Center, which offers various trails and educational exhibits about the ecosystem.

Finally, wrap up your visit with a tour of the Terrapin Beer Company. This local brewery is renowned for its craft beers and laid-back atmosphere, and often features live music and special events. Enjoy tasting different brews and soaking in the local vibe. With this itinerary, you'll experience the best of what Athens, GA has to offer!


Recommended Activities

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    State Botanical Garden of Georgia

    The State Botanical Garden of Georgia offers a serene escape with its beautifully maintained gardens, trails, and conservatories. It's a perfect spot for nature lovers and anyone looking to enjoy a peaceful environment.
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    Georgia Museum of Art

    The Georgia Museum of Art is the official state museum of art, showcasing a diverse collection of artwork ranging from classic to contemporary. It provides a rich cultural experience and is a great way to appreciate the arts.
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    Downtown Athens

    Downtown Athens is the vibrant heart of the city, known for its lively music scene, eclectic shops, and diverse dining options. It's a great place to experience the local culture and nightlife.
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    Bear Hollow Zoo

    Bear Hollow Zoo is a family-friendly destination that focuses on rehabilitating and providing homes for native animals in Georgia. It's an educational and fun experience for all ages.
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    Sandy Creek Nature Center

    Sandy Creek Nature Center offers a great opportunity to explore various trails and learn about the local ecosystem through its exhibits and interactive displays. It's perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike.
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    Terrapin Beer Company

    Terrapin Beer Company is a must-visit for craft beer lovers. It offers a variety of locally brewed beers and a laid-back atmosphere. You can take a tour of the brewery, enjoy tastings, and often find live music and events.
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Restaurants

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    The Grit

    4.5
    $$$$

    The Grit

    A beloved spot in Athens known for its creative vegetarian and vegan dishes in a cozy, artsy atmosphere.
    4.5
    $$$$
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    White Tiger Gourmet

    4.2
    $$$$

    White Tiger Gourmet

    Located in a historic building, this restaurant offers unique and delicious BBQ, sandwiches, and sides with a charming, quirky vibe.
    4.2
    $$$$
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    Heirloom Café and Fresh Market

    4.6
    $$$$

    Heirloom Café and Fresh Market

    This farm-to-table restaurant emphasizes local ingredients and sustainable practices, offering a unique, fresh dining experience.
    4.6
    $$$$
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    Five & Ten

    4.2
    $$$$

    Five & Ten

    A fine-dining establishment with an inventive Southern-influenced menu crafted by James Beard award-winning chef Hugh Acheson.
    4.2
    $$$$
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    Last Resort Grill (Athens, US)

    Last Resort Grill (Athens, US)

    Once a music club, this restaurant now serves up creative Southwestern-inspired dishes in a vibrant and historic setting.
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Hotels

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    The Graduate Athens

    4.2

    The Graduate Athens

    A boutique hotel with a quirky, collegiate theme, located in a historic building that offers modern amenities and a unique, vintage vibe.
    4.2
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    Hotel Indigo Athens

    4.6

    Hotel Indigo Athens

    An eco-friendly, art-centric hotel that blends modern design with Southern charm, featuring spacious rooms and contemporary art installations.
    4.6
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    The Colonels B&B and Inn

    4.9

    The Colonels B&B and Inn

    A charming bed and breakfast situated in a historic plantation-style home, offering a peaceful, nostalgic atmosphere and personalized service.
    4.9
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    The Rook and Pawn

    4.7

    The Rook and Pawn

    Stay at this unique board game café and hostel, where you can relax in comfortable accommodations and enjoy access to a vast collection of board games.
    4.7
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    The Hotel at Graduate Athens

    4.2

    The Hotel at Graduate Athens

    An extension of the Graduate Athens, this accommodation offers a similarly eclectic and collegiate style, with additional luxury amenities and event spaces.
    4.2
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Local Events & Happenings

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    Rumours ATL: A Fleetwood Mac Tribute (18 & Over)

    Rumours ATL: A Fleetwood Mac Tribute (18 & Over)

    The event will take place at Georgia Theatre in Athens.
    Map IconGeorgia Theatre in Athens (4.34 mi)
    Calendar Icon6 Sep 2025
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    The Avett Brothers

    The Avett Brothers

    The event will take place at Akins Arena at The Classic Center in Athens.
    Map IconAkins Arena at The Classic Center in Athens (4.34 mi)
    Calendar Icon13 Sep 2025
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    Cole Swindell w/ Priscilla Block

    Cole Swindell w/ Priscilla Block

    The event will take place at Akins Arena at The Classic Center in Athens.
    Map IconAkins Arena at The Classic Center in Athens (4.34 mi)
    Calendar Icon19 Sep 2025
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    Stereolab: 18 & Over

    Stereolab: 18 & Over

    The event will take place at Georgia Theatre in Athens.
    Map IconGeorgia Theatre in Athens (4.34 mi)
    Calendar Icon20 Sep 2025
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    Ty Myers

    Ty Myers

    The event will take place at Georgia Theatre in Athens.
    Map IconGeorgia Theatre in Athens (4.34 mi)
    Calendar Icon15 Oct 2025
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Travel Gems from Reddit


Music for Your Journey

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    Incubus - Drive

    Incubus - Drive

    This song captures the spirit of the open road and is great for a scenic drive through verdant landscapes.
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    Eagles - Take It Easy - 2013 Remaster

    Eagles - Take It Easy - 2013 Remaster

    A timeless classic that embodies a relaxed, carefree attitude, perfect for a road trip.
    Listen on Spotify
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    WALK THE MOON - Shut Up and Dance

    WALK THE MOON - Shut Up and Dance

    A high-energy track to keep your spirits high and add some fun to your journey.
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    Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros - Home

    Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros - Home

    A soothing, uplifting song that can make any place feel a bit more like home.
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    Ray Charles - Georgia on My Mind

    Ray Charles - Georgia on My Mind

    A perfect ode to the state of Georgia that will set the mood as you explore its wonders.
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    The Lumineers - Ho Hey

    The Lumineers - Ho Hey

    A feel-good track with a catchy rhythm that’s perfect for sing-alongs.
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    Rusted Root - Send Me on My Way

    Rusted Root - Send Me on My Way

    An uplifting song that evokes a sense of adventure and discovery.
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    Crosby, Stills & Nash - Southern Cross - 2005 Remaster

    Crosby, Stills & Nash - Southern Cross - 2005 Remaster

    A mellow, contemplative tune that’s great for introspective moments during your travels.
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    Mark Ronson - Uptown Funk (feat. Bruno Mars)

    Mark Ronson - Uptown Funk (feat. Bruno Mars)

    An energetic and funky track to keep you grooving as you explore the city.
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    Rascal Flatts - Life is a Highway

    Rascal Flatts - Life is a Highway

    A quintessential road trip song that celebrates the freedom and excitement of travel.
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    Picture for Rascal Flatts - Life is a Highway