Why Winter's Better In Athens: Beat The Blues With These Local Picks

Winter may be here, but the fun doesn’t slow down in Athens. From family outings to seasonal events and easy day trips, there’s plenty around town to keep your calendar full. Just remember to double-check hours, weather updates and ticket details before heading out. And if you want even more local winter ideas, keep scrolling — you’ll find a way to get personalized suggestions based on what you love to do.

Ice Skating At The Classic Center

Address: 440 Foundry Street, Athens, GA 30601
Phone: (706) 357-4444
Details: Each winter, the Foundry Pavilion at The Classic Center transforms into Athens on Ice, offering seasonal public skating in the heart of downtown. Timed sessions make it easy to plan a visit alongside shopping or dining nearby, and rentals are available on site. Skating dates and session times are posted online; buy your tickets in advance to secure your desired time slot.

Creature Comforts Brewing Co.

Address: 271 West Hancock Avenue, Athens, GA 30601
Phone: (706) 410-1043
Details: Creature Comforts is a cornerstone of Athens’ craft beer scene, pouring a rotating lineup of house-brewed favorites inside a spacious taproom. The brewery often hosts community events, making it a lively stop whether you’re staying for one pint or settling in awhile.

Rush Athens

Address: 10 Huntington Road, Unit B, Athens, GA 30606
Phone: (706) 548-4470
Details: Rush Athens is an indoor trampoline and activity park built for high-energy fun, with wall-to-wall trampolines, dodgeball courts and foam pits. It’s a popular option for open jump sessions, parties and group outings, especially when the weather keeps plans indoors. Session availability and waivers can be handled online.

Georgia Museum of Art

Address: 90 Carlton Street, Athens, GA 30602
Phone: (706) 542-4662
Details: As both the academic art museum of the University of Georgia and the official art museum of the state, the Georgia Museum of Art features rotating exhibitions spanning centuries, cultures and media. In addition to galleries, the museum hosts lectures, tours and special programs throughout the year. Exhibition details and event schedules are kept up to date on the museum’s website.

Treehouse Kids & Craft

Address: 585 Barber Street, Studio G, Athens, GA 30601
Phone: (706) 850-8226
Details: Treehouse Kids & Craft blends creative play with hands-on art experiences, offering open play sessions alongside guided classes and workshops. The space is designed for kids to explore, build and create, with programming that changes throughout the week. Upcoming classes and special events are listed on their online calendar.

Bear Hollow Zoo

Address: 293 Gran Ellen Drive, Athens, GA 30606
Phone: (706) 613-3580
Details: Located within Memorial Park, Bear Hollow Zoo offers free admission and a chance to see native wildlife up close, including black bears, birds of prey and other rescued animals. The zoo pairs well with a walk through the surrounding park, playgrounds and trails. Hours and seasonal notes are available through the county’s website.

40 Watt Club – Live Music Venue

Address: 285 West Washington Street, Athens, GA 30601
Phone: (706) 549-7871
Details: A legendary fixture in Athens’ music history, the 40 Watt Club hosts live performances ranging from indie and rock to experimental and local acts. Its intimate setting makes it a favorite for catching both emerging artists and established names. Show listings and ticket information are posted on the venue’s website.

State Botanical Garden of Georgia

Address: 2450 South Milledge Avenue, Athens, GA 30605
Phone: (706) 542-1244
Details: The State Botanical Garden of Georgia spans hundreds of acres of themed gardens, nature trails and conservatories just minutes from campus. While outdoor spaces change with the seasons, the garden also hosts year-round programs, exhibits and educational events. Check the calendar to see what’s scheduled during your next visit.

Want ideas that fit your family and your budget? Enter your ZIP code and preferences — kid-friendly, outdoor, educational and more — for winter getaway recommendations made for you.

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