Happy TravellerWelcome to Athens, Georgia, a vibrant college town located about 70 miles northeast of downtown Atlanta. Home to the University of Georgia, Athens has a rich history and a thriving music scene that has produced some of the most iconic alternative rock bands of the 80s and 90s. In this article, we’ll explore the city’s past, present, and future, and show you why Athens is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a unique and exciting travel experience.
History:
Athens has a long and fascinating history that dates back to the late 18th century when a trading settlement called Cedar Shoals stood on the banks of the Oconee River. In 1785, the Georgia General Assembly granted a charter for the University of Georgia, the first state-supported university in the country. The university’s board of trustees selected a site for the school on a hill above Cedar Shoals, and in 1801, John Milledge donated 633 acres of land to the university. The town of Athens grew around the college, and by the time the first class graduated in 1804, Athens consisted of three homes, three stores, and a few other buildings facing Front Street, now known as Broad Street. Over the years, Athens continued to grow, fueled by the cotton mills that drove the city’s industrial and commercial development. In the 1830s and 1840s, transportation developments and the growing influence of the University of Georgia made Athens one of the most important cities in the state. During the Civil War, Athens became a significant supply center, and after Reconstruction, the city continued to grow, attracting a new population of freed slaves who were drawn to the city’s centers for education. In the 1880s, as Athens became more densely populated, city services and improvements were undertaken, including the founding of the Athens Police Department, the opening of public schools, and the introduction of telephone service. By the centennial in 1901, Athens had experienced a century of development and growth, and the city continued to thrive throughout the 20th century, becoming a hub for the civil rights movement in the 1960s and a center for education and innovation in the 21st century.
Culture:
Athens is a city that is dominated by a pervasive college town culture and music scene centered in downtown Athens, next to the University of Georgia’s North Campus. Major music acts associated with Athens include numerous alternative rock bands such as R.E.M., the B-52s, Widespread Panic, Drive-By Truckers, of Montreal, Neutral Milk Hotel, and Harvey Milk. The city is also known as a recording site for such groups as the Atlanta-based Indigo Girls. The 2020 book Cool Town: How Athens, Georgia, Launched Alternative Music and Changed American Culture describes Athens as the model of the indie culture of the 1980s. In addition to its music scene, Athens is also home to a thriving arts community, with numerous galleries, theaters, and museums showcasing the work of local and regional artists.
Attractions:
Athens has a wealth of attractions that are sure to appeal to visitors of all ages and interests. The city’s historic district is home to numerous landmarks and buildings that date back to the 19th century, including the Morton Building, which hosted performances by black musicians such as Louis Armstrong, Cab Calloway, and Duke Ellington. The University of Georgia’s campus is also a must-see destination, with its beautiful architecture and lush green spaces. Visitors can take a tour of the campus and learn about the university’s history and traditions. For those interested in the city’s music scene, a visit to the Georgia Theatre is a must. This iconic venue has hosted some of the biggest names in music over the years and is a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike. Other popular attractions in Athens include the State Botanical Garden of Georgia, the Georgia Museum of Art, and the Sandy Creek Nature Center.
Food and Drink:
Athens is a foodie’s paradise, with a wide range of restaurants and eateries serving up everything from classic Southern cuisine to international fare. The city is particularly known for its barbecue, with numerous restaurants offering up mouthwatering pulled pork, brisket, and ribs. Other popular dishes in Athens include fried chicken, biscuits
