Between its thriving visual arts scene and rich musical heritage, Athens, Georgia, offers endless ways to immerse yourself in the arts. Whether you’re looking to dance the night away at a rock concert, wander contemporary art galleries, or catch a Broadway show, here are five experiences in Athens you won’t want to miss.
Rock Out at the Georgia Theatre
Strap on your dancing shoes for a show at Georgia Theatre, an iconic venue where Athens’ music legacy pulses through the floorboards. The 1889 building has been everything from a YMCA to a Masonic Temple, but it’s been a theatre for nearly a century now—despite a 2009 fire that nearly destroyed it. Stand where music legends like The B-52s, Willie Nelson, Sister Hazel, and Widespread Panic once played.
Experience the blend of historic charm and state-of-the-art equipment in an intimate space that holds just over 1,000 people. Check the calendar for a diverse range of acts, from local indie bands and late-night DJ sets to national touring artists like Band of Horses. Grab a spot on the main floor for a high-energy concert, or arrive early to grab drinks at the rooftop bar. Sip craft cocktails, dig into casual bites from rotating local restaurant partners, and soak up some of the best sunset views in town.
Prefer something more low-key? Plan your visit around one of the free rooftop shows to enjoy live music from a candlelit table. Stop by during football season to catch UGA games projected on the main stage—game day doesn’t get more Athens than this. If the venue looks familiar, you may have seen it featured as the backdrop for John Mayer’s music video “No Such Thing.”
Catch an Underground Show at 40 Watt Club
Step into the venue that got its start at a 1979 Halloween party hosted by drummer Curtis Crowe, and has since helped define Athens’ musical identity. 40 Watt Club lit the fuse on the city’s underground scene, launching acts like Pylon, R.E.M., and Neutral Milk Hotel before they were household names. Catch a show in the scrappy space that’s hosted everyone from Nirvana and Patti Smith to The Killers, Snoop Dogg, and The Strokes.
It’s moved around a lot over the years, but its current location on West Washington feels like a time capsule for indie rock lovers. Expect low ceilings, exposed brick, and a tight 460-person capacity that makes every show feel up-close and personal. It’s standing-room-only, so show up early to snag one of the few seats in the back. Jam out to punk, pop, country, or rap—the club’s eclectic lineup is a stellar representation of Athens’ genre-blending culture.
This year’s roster includes indie favorites like Deerhoof and pop-rock staples like We The Kings, giving you plenty of opportunities to show up and lose yourself in the music. Bringing a mini headbanger along for the ride? Underage guests are welcome with a guardian for a small $2 fee. Check out the merch stand for branded shirts and hats that make for killer collectibles. They don’t serve food, but you can grab a pre-show meal at Clocked for retro diner burgers or Trappeze Pub for elevated pub fare—both just a few minutes away on foot.
Wander the Galleries at Lyndon House Arts Center
Craving a deep dive into the local art scene without crowds? Embrace the vintage elegance of the 1856 Ware-Lyndon House, now transformed into the Lyndon House Arts Center. The space blends multiple exhibition galleries across two floors with art classes, workshops, a studio co-op, and a gallery shop—all free to visit. Discover everything from ceramics and photography to avant-garde installations. Check out rotating exhibitions like Controlled Burn by Tom Schram or Peach Fuzz by Victoria Dugger, then duck into the Lounge Gallery to discover rising local talent.
Inside the historic house, browse the decorative arts collection and immerse yourself in the stories of the people who once lived and worked here. Outside, stroll the interpretive garden for lush heirloom plants and displays. If you’re short on time, skip right to the gallery shop—it’s not to be missed. Find your new favorite piece among the pottery, blown glass, jewelry, and paintings by more than 100 local artists.
Channel your creative side in a wide range of adult and kid-friendly workshops. Get your hands dirty in a clay workshop, dive into a weekend printmaking class, or bring the kids for a hands-on painting session. Regular programs cater to all skill levels and ages, from toddler-friendly storytelling to advanced photography techniques—so check the calendar before you go.
Stroll the Athens Music Walk of Fame
Hit the streets of downtown Athens to follow the sidewalk plaques tracing the evolution of Athens’ music scene, one band at a time. Start your self-guided walking tour near the 40 Watt Club and continue past the Georgia Theatre to follow the timeline across two square blocks of music history. Download the free mobile app to trigger stories that play as you pass each plaque for deeper insights into each artist’s local impact.
Spot plaques honoring local legends like R.E.M., The B-52s, Vic Chesnutt, and Danger Mouse as you work your way through the Athens Music Walk of Fame. Don’t miss the plaques of lesser-known pioneers who helped build the city’s creative foundation, like Hal Johnson and James R. Smith. With 30 inductees so far and new ones added every year since its 2020 inception, you can expect to see new plaques each time you visit. Time your visit around golden hour for the best photo ops.
Enjoy a Performance at Classic Center Theatre
Looking for a more sophisticated night out? Catch a Broadway show, a symphony concert, or a stand-up set at one of Athens’ most polished venues. With 2,100 seats, the Classic Center Theatre brings national acts to town while maintaining its Southern charm. Marvel at the firehall facade that blends modern architecture with civic heritage. Reserve seats for everything from Broadway’s Hamilton and Les Misérables to ZZ Top, Tom Segura, and local ballet companies.
Arrive early to roam the lobby’s music-themed art galleries, or swing by during Third Thursday to see rotating exhibits by photographers like Jason Thrasher and Marco Battezzati. For even more excitement, plan your visit around annual events like Athens on Ice, Athens Beer Fest, and Athens Wine Weekend.
Right next door, the brand-new Akins Ford Arena expands the options even more. Cheer on the UGA Ice Dawgs or Athens Rock Lobsters, catch a Cole Swindell concert, or gear up for insane thrills at Monster Jam. For a pre-show meal or post-show nightcap, you’ve got 80+ bars within walking distance to choose from. Head to South Kitchen + Bar for upscale Southern fare, or sip espresso martinis at Manhattan Cafe.
