We love Athens and hope you can take the weekend to relax and explore the magic of this city that so close to our hearts.



The wedding ceremony and reception are located in downtown Athens and it's our goal for you to be able to drive in Friday or Saturday, park the car and not need it again until you are ready to leave. Our hotel blocks are in or near downtown and walkable to not just the wedding events but many restaurants, bars, and shops as well as the University of Georgia campus.



Downtown:

From crepes to ramen, Athens has all the food and we encourage you to eat your way through the city. Mama's Boy, Paloma Park and Big City Bread for breakfast and Jittery Joe's for coffee. The Place, DePalmas, The Grit (possible Michael Stipe spotting place!), or Clocked for a memorable meal and of course, The Grill, Little Italy or Boar's Head for late night. You can't go wrong with anything.



Athens is home for many fabulous restaurants. If a group wants to get a nice dinner together, we highly recommend the following restaurants:

Porterhouse Grill

(706) 369-0990

www.porterhouseathens.com



Last Resort Grille

(706) 549-0810

www.lastresortgrill.com



The National

(706) 549-3450

www.thenationalrestaurant.com



Five & Ten

(a Hugh Acheson restaurant; reservations needed and not downtown but worth the trip!)

(706) 546-7300

www.fiveandten.com



If you're just looking for a drink, you can't throw a rock without hitting at least 3 bars. Creature Comforts is one of our favorite breweries while Trappeze, Cutters, Allgood, the rooftop of Georgia Theatre, and 9d's Bar are a few favorites.



There are many cute shops downtown and a quick and easy way to spend an hour or few. Be sure to grab your Bulldog best at The Red Zone!



University of Georgia:

You can't visit Athens without seeing the UGA campus. The Arch is a literal gateway to North Campus, the most historic, walkable, and prettiest part. You can sign up for a guided tour via the UGA Visitor's Center or just walk around on your own time. Be sure to NOT walk under the Arch as that is reserved for UGA graduates (a legend says you won't graduate if you walk under before you finish). Ring the Victory Bell behind the Chapel and see Sanford Stadium.



Beyond:

There are several running and bike trails including North Oconee Greenway. The Georgia State Botanical Gardens are located in Athens and definitely worth a visit.



Athens also hosts many breweries large and small. We already mentioned Creature Comforts, but Terrapin is also national. Athentic, Akademia, Southern Brewing Company, and Normaltown are smaller but also a good drink.