Arts, Performances & Culture

It's no wonder that Athens has been recognized as one of the Top 100 Art Communities in America -- the arts are part of everyday life here. Major venues, including OU's Memorial Auditorium, Stuart's Opera House, The Dairy Barn Arts Center, ARTS/West, and the Kennedy Museum bring nationally and internationally recognized art to Southeast Ohio, while our pubs, restaurants and shops display and promote the unique local art of Athens County.

Athens County Tours

Guided or solo, these tours won't disappoint. You're sure to find the perfect tour of Athens County for you and your family.

Bobcats in Athens

Welcome Bobcats! Athens is a town filled with rich culture and heritage, a thriving music scene, an inspiring and renowned arts community, eclectic shopping and dining… all in the beautiful, rolling hills of Appalachia. Enjoy making this your home for the next 4 years!

Geocaching

Ready for a high-tech treasure hunt? Athens County is home to Ohio's ORIGINAL Geocaching Trail, launched in 2011. The current trial takes cachers on an historical tour of Athens County. Complete all the caches for the beautiful commemorative coin!

Hockhocking Adena Bikeway

Spanning from Athens to Nelsonville, the Hockhocking Adena Bikeway is 19 miles of paved, low-grade riding. Cyclists from all over the region claim this relaxing, scenic ride as a favorite.

Hocking Hills & Surroundings

Hocking Hills has many outdoor, recreational adventures for you to enjoy. After a great day of hiking, biking or boating, head to Uptown Athens for the evening. Just an easy 35 minute drive.

Historic Sites & Attractions

From the brick roads to the old mining settlements, Athens is steeped in history. Visit the Historical Society and Museum, take a ride on the Hocking Valley Scenic Railway, or take to the country roads to discover burial mounds and boom towns. So much to explore.

Parks & National Forests

Whether you're interested in hiking, hunting, fishing, kayaking, rock climbing or just relaxing, there's a park for every mood and every outdoor enthusiast in Athens County.

Recreation

Love the outdoors? Or does inclement weather force you inside? Either way, you'll find plenty of room to play in Athens County. Take a quick hike or a scenic bike ride. Saddle up or grab a paddle. Or head inside for exercise, relaxation, or family fun. Whether it's indoors or out, adventure is always on the agenda in Athens County.

Sports Attractions

Does the crack of the bat, a swish through the net, the collision of helmets, or the cheer of the crowd get your heart pumping? Then Athens County's got the action for you.

Family Fun

Athens County is the perfect family getaway destination. With so much to do, you're sure to find something to please every member of the family.

Halloween in Athens

With everything orange and black and sweet and spicy, it's hard not to love autumn and its most loved and feared holiday, Halloween.

Historic Nelsonville

Situated at the edge of the Hocking Hills, Historic Nelsonville is home to the famous Star Brick, Rocky Boots and one of Ohio's prettiest town squares.

Haunted Athens

Known as one of the most haunted places in the nation, Athens is home to numerous ghost stories and reported paranormal activity. Learn more about the town's haunted history...if you dare.

Ohio University

Founded in 1804 as the first university of the Northwest Territory, Ohio University has grown into a thriving community unto itself. With a student population of approximately 19,000 and over 250 degree programs, Ohio University consistently ranks as one of the top universities in the US. Whether you are a student, parent, alum, or visitor, a trip to this quintessential college campus is sure to be memorable.

Hocking College

Experiences beyond the classroom bring thousands of visitors to Hocking College. Whether you attend Hocking College or are just visiting the area, you will quickly discover that nature offers its own lessons and there is knowledge to be gleaned even while taking in the gorgeous scenery.

Historical Marker Tour

There are nine Ohio Historical Society Historical Markers and several privately erected markers in Athens County. A driving tour of all will help you discover the unique history of Athens County.