Shelly & Reed
Visit Athens
Georgia Museum of Art
The Georgia Museum of Art, on the campus of the University of Georgia, in Athens, is both an academic museum and, since 1982, the official art museum of the state of Georgia. The permanent collection consists of American paintings, primarily 19th- and 20th-century; American, European and Asian works on paper; the Samuel H. Kress Study Collection of Italian Renaissance paintings; and growing collections of southern decorative arts and Asian art.
The State Botanical Garden of Georgia
The 313-acre State Botanical Garden of Georgia is home to numerous themed display gardens, including the Flower Garden, the International Garden, the Heritage Garden, the Shade Garden, and more. Come discover our display gardens, nature trails, and conservatory in Athens.
Memorial Park Bear Hollow Zoo
Memorial Park is one of the most popular family attractions in Athens. Nestled in the Five Points neighborhood, the park is home to Bear Hollow Zoo, the Birchmore Trail, a small lake, and expansive picnic and playground equipment. The number and size of the trees make a wonderfully-shaded spot on even warm summer days. Admission to all areas and attractions is free. Bear Hollow Zoo is a popular place for families to come and see Georgia’s native wildlife. This small wildlife trail is home to black bears, bobcats, white-tailed deer, owls, and many other species of wild, free-living animals.
Sandy Creek Nature Center
Sandy Creek Nature Center is a gateway to outdoor exploration. The property features 225 acres of woodlands and wetlands with over 4 miles of trails, including an ADA interpretive trail and connections to the North Oconee River Greenway and Cook’s Trail. The SPLOST-funded Education & Visitor Center includes live reptiles, amphibians, marine and freshwater aquariums, interactive natural history exhibits, and an incredible resource library, all housed in an eco-friendly building. There is also a circa 1815 log house and several wildlife observation areas on site.
