Guide to Game Day Weekend in Athens, Georgia

Game day

Gather between the hedges at Sanford Stadium - Over 100,000 people come into Athens every game day. Even if you don't score tickets to the game, tailgating is the real main event. Bring a tent, chairs, yard games and your best tailgating snacks.

Walk around North Campus – Nestled next to downtown, North campus is the oldest part of UGA, established in 1785. Frolic in Herty Field, dip your toe in the fountain, and as tradition goes, ring the Chapel Bell to celebrate a Dawgs win!

Music

Catch a show at the Georgia Theater - This historic concert hall has held legendary shows by REM, Dave Matthews Band, the Police and countless more. Be sure to check out the rooftop for local brews and downtown views.

Jam at the 40 Watt Club – Equally as famous is the 40 Watt Club, which has hosted acts like Nirvana, The Flaming Lips, the Killers, Sugarland and many more. This intimate venue has shows ranging from hard rock to indie folk to funk to any genre you can think of, often showcasing local talent.

Sift through the records at Wuxtry and Low Yo Yo - Our famous music scene is complimented by our fine record stores that have been featured in Rolling Stones. Optional - BYO records to sell or trade.

Explore local

Brewery hopping - Athens' breweries are almost as famous as the football team. Not to miss is Creature Comforts, which made its film debut in Avengers: Endgame as Thor's beer of choice. Athens now offers beer tours to sample all the breweries big and small.

Shopping downtown - Whether you're searching for trendy boutiques or funky vintage stores, downtown Athens has it all. My personal favorite is Community, which offers locally made goods and hand-crafted clothing sewn in-house using sustainable materials.

State Botanical Garden - With 9 gardens including an indoor tropical conservatory and 5 miles of wooded nature trails, the Botanical Garden is a perfect place to spend a calm afternoon after an exciting day of tailgating and cheering on the Dawgs. Free entry.

Athens Farmers Market - One thing about Athens is we love supporting local, and it doesn't get more local than the Farmer's Market. Open every Saturday morning 8am-12pm.

Self care Sunday - If you're in need of some extra self care and detoxing after a long night, Athens has you covered. I'd highly recommend a sweat session at Drench Sauna Studio and a yoga class at Shakti Power Yoga.

Day trips

Athens is about an hour and a half from Atlanta, and 1-2 hours from the North Georgia mountains. If big cities are your thing, there is plenty to explore in the Hollywood of the South. If you're looking for hiking and great views, take a trip to Dahlonega or Clayton. These small towns have a lot to explore and are just a few miles from some incredible trails like Tallulah Falls and Amicalola Falls.

Last Resort – Never actually chosen as a ‘last resort,' this popular restaurant features contemporary Southern dishes (Southern hospitality included). A relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere with a history, Last Resort is hosted in a former iconic music club.

The National - Connected to a small independent movie theater, the National serves Mediterranean inspired food like the cuisine found in European cafés but with the seasonality of food grown in Northeast Georgia. The perfect place for a casual yet elevated dining experience. Reservations recommended.

Cali N Tito’s – A good sign is that this place is always packed when the weather’s nice. The ambience and cuisine resembles a Latin American ‘soda’ with tons of seating al fresco.

Marti’s at Midday - It’s worth it to get into town early on Friday before they close for the weekend. You’ve never had better chicken salad or pimento cheese (we won’t tell your grandma). Grab some pounds to-go if you want to be ‘Most Popular’ at the tailgate.

Square one – Feels like you are stepping into a lobster house in the Florida Keys, serving up elevated seafood—and not just the fried stuff (although they have that too). For appetizers, it’s got to be the buffalo shrimp. Also serves brunch.

Seabear Oyster Bar - If you’re a big fan of seafood, Seabear is a must. Go over the top with a fancy tiki drink. Start with the crispy scallion pancake. The Scallop Fried Rice is my entree order every single time, and for good reason. Just trust me. Reservations recommended.

The Grill – Their Instagram bio says it best: “Hamburgers, fries and shakes. The way they used to be.” A staple diner in Athens since 1981. Perfect for a late-night meal after celebrating a win downtown (open until 4 am).

The Globe – An English-inspired pub with artisan cocktails. The Globe is another Athens staple and frequently hosts shows in its intimate upstairs venue.

5 Bar – A favorite amongst locals, including athletes. You might even catch one of the stars of the game here. A great place close to campus to grab drinks and a bite before or after the game.

Jittery Joe’s - Athenians love local coffee as much as we love local beer. They even have frosty joes to compete with the frappuccinos.

Hendershot’s – There’s nothing better than a place where you can order both coffee and a cocktail. And in Athens, it’s hard to find a place that isn’t also a music venue. At this one, you’re likely to see Mr. Hendershot himself playing in a show. Close to downtown but away from the main action, Hendershot’s is the perfect place to fuel up or stay for a while.