Athens for Adults: A Parent's Guide to the Classic City

Fall is always bustling in Athens. Bulldawg football, along with the return of UGA students, draws an influx of visitors to the Classic City. Many visitors will be UGA parents eager to experience Athens with (or perhaps without) their kids. It is always great to share a beverage with Mom & Dad at a North Campus tailgate and cheer for the Dawgs side-by-side at Sanford. But what to do for a post-game activity? Or on those lazy Sunday-afters?

• If you are anything like my parents, you will appreciate Athens' rich history. The Athens Welcome Center offers guided bus and walking tours that provide a close-up look at the city's impressive history. From the world headquarters of R.E.M. to the Confederate relic that is the T.R.R. Cobb house; you will see that your son or daughter's adopted hometown is more than just a world-class university.


• Enjoy a meal at one of downtown's eclectic dining spots. Sample the unique flavor combinations at Last Resort on Clayton Street or the locally grown dishes at Farm 255. To learn more about Athens Cuisine visit the CVB's restaurant page.


• Everyone deserves a night on the town; and there is certainly no shortage of night-life in Athens. The Cine theater, an eccentric arthouse on Hancock street, features independent films representing a variety of cultures. On Monday and Tuesday nights Cine partners with The National, one of Athens' premiere restaurants. The two venues offer a $25 package of a prix-fix meal, tapas, and a movie ticket. Afterwards enjoy a refreshment or hit the dance floor at one of the dawgs' favorite hotspots.


• Terrapin brewery is an Athens staple. Recently named the nation's 7th top brewery,Terrapin provides a place to kick back and enjoy a frosty brew with friends and family(usually with an accompaniment of live music). The brewery is open from 5:30-7:30 Thursday through Saturday, with tours running every half an hour. Eight dollars will buy you a Terrapin pint glass and eight drink tickets, allowing you to sample each of their unique beers.

Don't be fooled by the "college-town" label, Athens has something to offer everyone.