Fetching A Great Time In Athens, Georgia

Athens, Georgia.  It's a beautiful
town located 60 miles northeast
of Atlanta.  And, making your
way to this town should be a
must...especially in the Fall.

It's not only beautiful but it just happens to be
 home to the University of Georgia.  This historic arch
was installed on the campus in 1864 and tradition has
 it that freshmen are forbidden to walk under the arch.
 It is probably the most recognized symbol
of the University.

The University of Georgia was founded in 1785 and it
is the first state-chartered university in America.  There
are more than 26,000 undergraduate students who
call this place "home".

Dating back to the 1890's, it is tradition to ring the Chapel
Bell after a Georgia victory.  And, with 38 national
championships in their athletic programs, I'd say that
 bell has been rung a few times.

The University of Georgia's mascot is a bulldog.
It's hard to not see a bulldog in this town.

Even when it's not said, you get the point.
It's a Bulldog town.

Where everyone loves their Bulldogs and
may even claim to be the top dog....

...but there is only one top dog and his name is Uga...

And, if you like college football, then a
trip to Athens will not disappoint you one bit!
Georgia is a powerhouse in the SEC conference
and it's "where they hold class each Saturday
in the fall and teach the other teams how
to play football" is a popular saying
around this town.

Thousands come to cheer on their Bulldogs on Saturdays...

...It's a sea of red streaming into Sanford Stadium.

You get the point that Georgia football is big in Athens.

But Athens isn't just about football...
It's a great testing ground for chefs,
and Athens reaps the rewards!
So make your way to some of my
favorite restaurants...not just in
Athens, but these are some of my
favorite restaurants anywhere!

Five and Ten is an award-winning restaurant
located in the Five Points area of Athens.

I usually just order all of the "snackies".
And, then it's on to the appetizers...

From their appetizers...

...to their deserts is just one fabulous offering
after another.

Five and Ten is a quaint and charming restaurant.

You'll need to get a reservation at this popular place whether
it's for dinner or their Sunday brunch.

Jittery Joe's is the best cup of coffee in town.
Period.

If you love cheese grits, fluffy homemade biscuits,
peach french toast and breakfast in general
then get to Mama's Boy.

It's located in a quaint retro diner and breakfast
is served all day long.  They also serve
lunch and their famous pimiento cheese
burger is a must.

Expect a line whenever you go, but it's worth the wait!!

Speaking of a line, you'll always find one here at Last Resort Grill.

However, it doesn't matter how long the line
is because you are going to love every bite.

And, you must save room for one of their famous desserts.  

Atlanta Magazine says it's one of Athens' most
quietly sophisticated in-town bistros.

My meal was so good I couldn't even get a picture
of it before I consumed it.

The National is another quaint restaurant where you
will need to get reservations.

Mediterranean-inspired dishes with an emphasis on
ingredients from local farmers.

This rib-eye was one of the best I've ever had.

Craving classic Chicago style pizza?  Well, look no further
than Transmetropolitan.  You'll find sicilian and traditional
crust whole pies and calzones to focaccia paninis, salads
and great pasta dishes.  It's a great gathering spot whether
it's for lunch or dinner.

A 50's-style diner offering juicy burgers, fresh-cut-fries,
hand-dipped malts and shakes along with sandwiches
and vegetarian dishes.  It's open 24 hours a day so
there is always a good time to go to The Grill.

The Georgia Theatre is one of the premier live music venues
in the south plus you will find a great rooftop bar and restaurant
that is a must on any trip to Athens.

You don't have to travel to Atlanta if you are
looking for some great shopping. Downtown Athens
offers so many great ways for you to spend money.

Finding a hotel in Athens on a football weekend is nearly
impossible, but when possible stay at Hotel Indigo.

It's Athens' newest boutique hotel with
130 rooms designed in luxurious contemporary
ambiance.

Hotel guests flock here in the lobby on Fridays
for their complimentary Happy Hour.

Their outdoor patio with fire pits is a great place to
mingle with friends.

Their complimentary trolley allows you to enjoy
downtown and the football game without having
to worry about finding the ever-hard-to-find
parking spot.

Another great hotel is the Foundry Park Inn and Spa.  It's
located within walking distance to downtown. 

Landmark buildings with modern amenities make this a
beautiful place to stay.  Their quaint and historic Hoyt House
restaurant serves first class breakfast, lunch and dinner.

The Hilton Garden Inn has the top spot in downtown
Athens and is a great place to stay.  You are
just steps away from all of the fun, food and
adventure that Athens has to offer.

Well, it's good-bye to Athens for now, but not for long.


HOPING YOU FEEL LIKE THE TOP DOG WHEREVER YOU GO!
TRAVEL M GIRL