Athens

Athens, located in the northeastern part of Georgia and about 70 miles east of Atlanta, began as a little settlement where an ancient Cherokee trail crossed the Oconee River. On January 27, 1785, the University of Georgia was incorporated by an Act of the General Assembly. It was America's first chartered state college. Abraham Baldwin, a Yale graduate and one of Georgia's two signers of the U.S. Constitution, authored the charter and was named president of the college. On December 8, 1806, the city of Athens was incorporated and was named in honor of the center of higher learning in classical Greece. The University of Georgia attracted many wealthy citizens to Athens and industry grew rapidly. The Civil War interupted

much of the prosperity of the antebellum period, however, Athens was not touched during Sherman's March and was able to again be properous. Today, you can see some of the homes that were in use during the antebellum period because of continued preservation of the rich history of Athens. You can also visit the university that attracted prosperity and growth to the city during its founding.
Favorite Restaurants
Attractions
Bed & Breakfasts

Rass N Ruby's Steak & Seafood

(706) 354-8700
473 Highway 29 North
Athens, GA 30601

This restaurant offers American food such
as steak, chicken, seafood, sandwiches,
soups, appetizers, and salads. They have
excellent desserts and they also serve
a variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic
drinks.

Lumpkin Cafe

(706) 543-3122
1700 S Lumpkin Street
Athens, GA 30606

The Lumpkin Cafe, set in a quaint stone
house, is a popular cafe that serves
ratatouille, Oriental chicken salad, spinach
crepes, homemade soups, gourmet sandwiches, and homemade cakes. This
cafe is open everyday for lunch, except
Sunday.

Jittery Joe's

(706) 208-1979
1210 S Milledge Aveune
Athens, GA 30605

Jittery Joe's serves "the freshest coffee in
town!" It also features a nice selection of
inported roasted coffees, bagels, pastries,
teas, Italian sodas, and desserts.

Sandy Creek Nature Center

(706) 613-3615
205 Old Commerce Rd.
Athens, Georgia 30607

This is a 225 acre wildlife sanctuary with over four
miles of trails. It is a great place to see some amazing
creatures in their natural settings.

Georgia Museum of Art

(706) 542-4662
90 Carlton St
Athens, Georgia 30602

Taylor-Grady House

(706) 549-8688
634 Prince Avenue
Athens, GA 30601

This is a Greek Revival home that was built by
General Robert Taylor as a summer retreat. Today, it
is Athens only National Historic Landmarks and there
is a museum is located inside.

Lydon House Art Center

(706) 613-3623
293 Hoyt St
Athens, GA 30601

This house is listed in the National Register of Historic
Places and was Athens first city recreation center.
Today, it has been restored into its original beauty
and is now a house museum.

Grand Oaks Manor Bed and Breakfast
(706) 353-2200
6295 Jefferson Road
Athens, Georgia 30607

Magnolia Terrace Guest House
(706) 548-3860
277 Hill Street
Athens, Georgia 30601