Athens--What to see and do? (Atlanta: homes, neighborhoods, college)

[shania]

In my next trip to the ATL area, I'd like to take a side trip to Athens. Besides visiting UGA, what are the best things to see and do in a weekend? Is there a downtown area with shops and restaurants? Neighborhoods of old homes to take walks in or drive through? What do native Georgians do when they visit Athens? Favorite restaurants/clubs?

I know I can look up Athens online and see what the visitors info site says, but I'm looking for local inside information.

Thanks ahead of time.

[taylornicole]

I don't know if you have already visited Athens, but as a native, I feel inclined to respond.

Other than viewing the campus, which I will say is beautiful, there's downtown Athens. There are stores, restaurants (The Grill would be first pick), and people watching that may take up a solid afternoon of your time. Generally speaking, if people in Athens want something fun to do, we go to Atlanta.

[capoeira]

I always stopped at the Georgia Botanical Gardens whenever I visited Athens.

The State Botanical Garden of Georgia

[J2rescue]

I don't know that there is much to see and do in a small college town like Athens, other than what has already been mentioned. It does however have a charming little downtown thats an enjoyable place to have dinner or shop if you happen to be in the city. If do go, Five and Ten (link) is an excellent dining choice.

[athensvaasi]

Campus -- visit North campus, north campus (main) library, walk to Sanford Stadium, tate Student center.

Downtown -- If you want a place to eat downtown: Last Resort & Grill, Harry Bissetts, East/West Bistro. Coffee shops across from campus: Walkers pub/coffee shop, Espress Royale, Starbucks. Bars galore for your evening.

Five Points -- Quaint (pricey) shopping. Five & Ten restaurant is at Five Points. Jittery Joes coffee shop is great.

Botanical garden is within a short drive from campus (less than 10 minute drive). North Milledge Ave.

[shania]

Thanks for the recommendations, everyone. This is exactly what I wanted to know...places to eat, walk around, people watch. May not be tons to do, but figure there's plenty to do for weekend.

[jforeman]

Harry Bissetts is a great option for a meal. If you're interested in shopping Helix and Junkman's Daughter's Brother are fun little shops.

[mistersocks]

This is an old thread, but we're thinking about heading to Athens tomorrow to look around.

In addition to the above info, does anybody have recommendations for stuff that would be good for small kids? Also, any cool REM/Pylon/other Athens music landmarks?

Thanks!