15 Underrated Hidden Gems in Athens, Georgia With Restaurants

Well, you might have heard about Athens because of the Georgia Bulldogs football team, the art, and the local music culture, which is pretty similar to Nashville but has its own vibes.

Although, just like other cities, there is a big part of Athens that many visitors ignore because of their lack of awareness. But believe me, there are countless hidden gems in Athens that you should always visit whenever you are in this city.

And because these places are lesser-known, you usually won’t see a large crowd turning to these places, unlike the state botanical garden, Sandy Creek Park, and the most famous old tree of Athens, which usually remains crowded. Below, I have written about 15 hidden gems in Athens that can improve your experience of visiting the city. 

1. TRR Cobb House 

Address: 175 Hill St, Athens, GA 30601

If you are someone who likes to visit historical places and museums, then TRR Cobb House is an ideal spot for you. This house was built in 1842 and was home to Thomas Reade Rootes Cobb, who was among the most well-known lawyers, politicians, and Confederate generals of his era.

Upon entering, you will see a very well-decorated garden and a mansion in front. Then, as you enter in the mansion, it will be like the 19th-century places you see in the movies. Wooden tables, old-school sofa sets, various paintings on the wall, different sculptures, a library section, and different accomplishments of the late Mr. Cobb will be around.

This house has been divided into two different exhibits. The main floor has been preserved as it was in the 19th century, and you will see things like documents and things that were once used by the Cobb family. On the upper floor, you’ll see different paintings, sculptures, and exhibits.

And during your visit to the museum, if you feel like learning more about TRR Cobb, you can take the guided tour. 

Also Read: Lesser-Known Tourist Attractions in Nashville

2. Georgia Museum of Natural History

Address: Natural History Bldg, Athens, GA 30602

The Georgia Museum of Natural History has been a hub of natural history research at the University of Georgia. It is a very rare museum, and you won’t see this kind of museum in many other cities. The collection of this hidden gem museum in Athens is what makes it one-of-a-kind.

This museum has a collection of more than 3 million specimens, which date back millions of years and include different sets of collections. Some of these are:

Archaeology Collection (objects from over 16,000 sites), Arthropods Collection (more than 2.5 million specimens), Botany Collection (more than 235 000 plant samples), Geology Collection (comprises over 30,000 samples), Herpetology Collection (over 46,000 reptiles), Mammalogy Collection (more than 40,000 specimens), Mycology Collection (more than 40,000 specimens of fungi), and many more.

And it’s not only about that; you will also see various fossils of animals that went extinct millions of years ago in multiple exhibitions and collections.

3. Lyndon House Arts Center

Address: 211 Hoyt St, Athens, GA 30601

Lyndon House Arts Center is not just an art center but also a historical mansion that deserves much more recognition. It has a lovely little garden in front, where you can sit for some time after visiting the center.

As you enter, you will witness a well-maintained house with perfectly preserved furnishings and decorations. From the sofa set to the table and chairs for dining, everything looks like it came out of a classic movie.

But the best thing about this place is its art collection. Various forms of art are hanging on the wall or placed on pedestals and tables. If you love local Athens art or want to see Athens art, then this is an ideal location. Most of the work you’ll see here is made by the local artists, some professional and some young, which also plays a vital role in the variety of artistic pieces here.

Some of the art you’ll see will be permanent, and they will also come up with different exhibits where the center comes up with new iconic pieces. Before leaving, make sure to visit the gallery to purchase any art you like, whether painting, photography, pottery, woodwork, handmade jewelry or any other thing.

Read More: Off-the-beaten Tourist Attractions in Venice, Florida

4. Trial Gardens

Address: 1030 W Green St, Athens, GA 30602

If you like visiting gardens and love being around different types of flowers, then Trial Gardens should be on your itinerary. This hidden gem is at the University of Georgia, and apart from the students and staff of the university, only a few people talk about it despite being so beautiful.

This garden features many flowers that most of you would be unaware of. And it’s not just one set; every time you visit this place, you’ll see something new. While most universities maintained the garden solely for aesthetics, this is not the case here. Though it is an aesthetic feature, but most flowers are also part of research processes on different campuses.

In addition, most flowers and small plants were also planted here to see their behavior in the Georgian climate. 

5. Double Barrel Cannon

Address: 301 College Ave, Athens, GA 30601

This place in Athens is a quick stop-visit location that is nice to spend some time at after visiting another location. Although there is not much to look at, but it’s still worth visiting.

The Double Barrel Cannon is an artifact of the Civil War era. It was an innovation during that time, but unfortunately, it couldn’t perform its task properly and was never used as a weapon. Instead, it was used for sightseeing purposes. This cannon is the only one of its kind in the world. It used to be a major sightseeing location in the city, but now it’s just another hidden gem out there as you won’t see many people visiting here.

In addition, the city hall on the back side gave this cannon company. It is a government building that is 99 feet tall, and the unique architecture from the outside makes it a stunning sightseeing location. 

6. Stan Mullins Art Studio 

Address: 650 Pulaski St, Athens, GA 30601

An art studio that is housed in an oil refinery, Stan Mullins Art Studio is a hidden gem that you should visit. Its not only an art studio but also the working space of the artist.

This gallery is owned by the artist named Stan Mullins, who is a sculptor and painter. That’s why, upon entering, you will see this place full of different sculptures and paintings. Not to mention, the size of these art pieces is also as big as a human.

And as I mentioned above, this is also a workspace for the artist, so you can also meet him. And lastly, try to book an appointment before going there, as this place is open primarily for special events.

7. Dudley Park

Address: 100 Dudley Park Rd, Athens, GA 30601

Spans over 32 acres of green land with the addition of a river and a hiking trail, Dudley Park deserves a spot in our itinerary for visiting the lesser-known side of the city.

As you reach this place, you’ll find a separate parking lot for parking. Then, it’s all about the green area around you. This park is the place where you’ll see two major trails, named North Oconee Greenway and the Firefly Trail, which is ideal for jogging and walking.

Moreover, the North Oconee River in the park makes it even more beautiful, because of the stunning river views among the greenery. Fishing is also allowed in this river, so you should come with your fishing set.

At the same time, you will see different tables and benches in different areas of this park, which makes this place ideal for picnics with friends and family as well. 

8. Oconee Forest Park

Address: Athens, GA 30606

A short distance from Dudley Park lies Oconee Forest Park, a nice little escape from city life and a place to spend some time among greenery and nature. This hidden park spans over 60 acres of land.

This is not an ordinary forestry area, but it is among the oldest forests, which have been preserved for over 100 years. There is a well-maintained hiking trail, approximately 1.5 miles long, and a biking trail, approximately 1.2 miles long. While hiking, you will see several old trees and different species of birds and trees around you.

But the most interesting thing about this park is Lake Herrick, which spans over 15 acres and offers stunning views, which you can sit and enjoy in front of different trees and green grass. Moreover, if you like the beach side, then you have to go to the other side of the lake, where you’ll find Lake Herrick Beach.

9. University of Georgia Golf Course

Address: 2600 Riverbend Rd, Athens, GA 30605

Another stunning and lesser-known location in Athens is the golf course at the University of Georgia. Though it is managed by the university, but is also open for the general public with different pass options, starting from $34 to $86.

This is an 18-hole golf course with great facilities and a well-managed course, with a pond near two different holes. The best thing about this golf course is that you can also get help from a professional to improve your game. And you can also practice in the nearby practice area, which is right next to the golf course.

Moreover, If you like to play near the pond, choose holes 13 and 16, as these are the only holes where you can play close to the pond. Not only that, there is also a shop where you can purchase golf accessories like headwear, footwear, golf balls, accessories, and gifts.

10. ARTini’s Art Lounge

Address: 337 Prince Ave, Athens, GA 30601

If you specifically love painting, then head to ARTini’s Art Lounge. In short, this place is a painter’s arena, where you’ll also see other like-minded individuals purchasing and making paintings.

Upon entering, you will be welcomed by various paintings hanging on the wall. They are on display for purchase and have different themes, such as cultural, natural, sports, etc.

The best thing is that you can sit and paint whatever you like. The studio will provide you with all the different tools you need. You can also take a class where a professional painter will guide you in making paintings that can be helpful, especially if you are painting something for yourself. 

Hidden Gem Restaurants In Athens, Ga

11. George’s Lowcountry Table

Address: 420 Macon Hwy, Athens, GA 30606

Now, let’s talk about the hidden gems restaurants in Athens. We will start with George’s Lowcountry Table, which specializes in seafood.

This restaurant has a typical American interior but with aesthetics that make it more attractive. While the small-sized bulbs and use of woodwork inside are amazing, the dining area is also quite pleasant, with wooden chairs and tables covered with a white sheet.

Regarding the food, they offer lunch, brunch, and dinner with different menu options, which also includes a special. The menu is full of seafood, like Mussels, popcorn crawfish, Smoked Salmon, Shrimp, Oysters, Crab, Filet Mignon, and seafood jambalaya, which has a variety of seafood in one pot.

Even though they specialize in seafood, they also offer vegetarian and other meat options like fried chicken, ribeye, and eggplant pirogue, as well as different egg dishes accompanied by sweet desserts, which makes the end of the meal special. 

12. Alumni Cookie Dough

Address: 480 N Thomas St, Athens, GA 30601

As the name suggests, Alumni Cookie Dough is a spot for eating something sweet. They have been serving sweet and delicious sweet items since 2019.

Their dining area also gives off icy and positive vibes, like an ideal cookie dough shop. Although they don’t have an extensive menu list, they still offer various cookie dough flavors, such as chocolate chip, red velvet, peanut butter, and cream, and special flavors like a gluten-free oatmeal cookie, vegan/dairy-free chocolate chip, and sea salt with caramel cookie.

In addition, they offer ice cream in different flavors and special packs, which are perfect for giving someone a treat or throwing a tiny little party with packs of different cookie dough flavors and ice cream.

13. Chuck’s Fish

Address: 220 W Broad St, Athens, GA 30601

Chuck’s Fish is another lesser-known spot for seafood lovers. Here, you will find a lot of different seafood options, including Japanese seafood like sushi, nigiri, sashimi, and different rolls.

Their restaurant’s interior is quite attractive, with varying seating options, like a sofa and chair with a wooden table as a partner. Their menu has a variety of Gulf fish, shrimp, filets, tuna, crabs, soft shell crabs, and salmon fish options.

You can also try their vegetarian and non-fish items on the menu, like fettuccine, chicken scaloppine, beef, and other vegetarian and Japanese options.

14. Osteria Athena

Address: 323 E Broad St, Athens, GA 30601

If you are looking for a place to eat Italian food, look no further than Osteria Athena. It surely deserves a visit because it offers authentic Italian cuisine and an authentic Italian experience.

Not only the food, but as you enter, you’ll witness an ideal environment, just like an Italian restaurant should have, with slightly dim lighting, paintings on the wall, and wooden chairs and tables.

They offer various Italian dishes, including bruschetta with mushrooms and a meatball appetizer, baked lasagna, pappardelle with bolognese sauce, pistachio-crusted salmon, tagliatelle with mushrooms, beef and reef, and others. They also offer a gluten-free and kids’ menu on customers demand as well.

15. 1000 Faces Coffee

Address: 510 N Thomas St, Athens, GA 30601,

If you want to drink coffee in a lesser-known underrated coffee shop, rather then a famous one like Starbucks or Dunkin Donuts type place, then head to 1000 Faces Coffee, which offers one of the best coffees out there.

Not only does their coffee is brilliant, but their interior also stands out and makes them different. At the same time, the dining area is simple yet engaging, with a large window for you to view outside and a long table with chairs. They have different coffee flavors, but the espresso is really among the best there, with different bread and pastries also available for you to eat with it.

In addition to coffee, they also sell coffee beans. So, if you are looking for something new, you can definitely purchase coffee beans from the shop.

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