Step back in time and visit Athens' most significant historic sites, landmarks, and hidden gems.
№ 001Athens' premier arthouse cinema that opened in 2007 in the historic Broad Street Firestone Building. This nonprofit media arts center features two screening rooms showing independent, international, documentary, and classic films not typically available in commercial theaters. With its adjoining bar/café and gallery space, Ciné serves as a cultural hub hosting film festivals, special events, and community gatherings.
№ 002Downtown Athens' premier convention and performing arts center, opened in 1995. The multi-purpose facility hosts concerts, Broadway shows, conventions, and special events in its 2,100-seat theater and 56,000 square feet of exhibition space. With its distinctive architecture blending historic and modern elements, the Classic Center serves as a cultural and economic hub for the city.
№ 003A unique Civil War relic located on the grounds of Athens City Hall, this is the only one of its kind in the world. Designed in 1863 by John Gilleland, the cannon was meant to fire two balls connected by a chain to "mow down the enemy like a scythe." It failed spectacularly during testing when the balls fired at different times, creating unpredictable trajectories. Today, it's a beloved landmark pointing north as a symbolic warning to potential invaders.
№ 004A cornerstone of Athens dining since 1992, this restaurant transformed a historic downtown building into a culinary landmark. Known for its distinctive "Southwestern-meets-Southern" cuisine, Last Resort offers innovative dishes using local ingredients. The restaurant's warm ambiance, with exposed brick walls and local artwork, complements signature items like the praline chicken and salmon with honey-soy glaze. Its legendary chocolate cake has become a staple for special celebrations in Athens.
№ 005A beloved downtown Athens institution that has been one of the city's "locals' little secrets for decades." Known for its intimate atmosphere, eclectic décor, and strong drinks, the bar features free popcorn and has been recognized as one of the top ten bars in Georgia. Located at the historic Hot Corner district.
№ 006Escape the downtown scene for the oldest bar in the area, built in 1952. The atmosphere is warm and unfussy with pool, video games and karaoke. Cold domestic beer and liquor drinks.
№ 007Built in 1910 by Monroe Bowers "Pink" Morton, this historic vaudeville theatre is among the first in the nation built, owned, and operated by an African American. Located at what was known as Athens' "Hot Corner," the center of Black business, the theatre hosted legendary performers like Louis Armstrong and Duke Ellington. The Morton Building also housed Black professionals, including the first Black woman dentist licensed in Georgia. Renovated in the 1990s, it now serves as a performing arts venue.
№ 008This distillery inside the historic Henry Bishop house focuses on gin, rum and vodka. Cocktails and tours of the space, plus some light bites (grilled cheese, charcuterie). Tons of outdoor space under huge oak trees.
№ 009A 782-acre recreational area featuring Lake Chapman, a 260-acre lake popular for fishing, boating, and swimming. The park offers over 7 miles of hiking trails, disc golf, tennis courts, playgrounds, and picnic areas. Since opening in 1980, it has served as a natural sanctuary for Athens residents, with forests, wetlands, and wildlife viewing opportunities just minutes from downtown.
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