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BBC names Athens the coolest college town in the South

Vision Video performing at the legendary 40 Watt in downtown Athens
Lara Dua-Swartz
Vision Video performing at the legendary 40 Watt in downtown Athens

In a recent article, the BBC has highlighted Athens for its nightlife and party scene, while also emphasizing a growth in music venues, a variety of cuisines, and luxury hotels.

The article mentioned the increase over the years in tourism spending in the classic city beginning post-COVID with visitor spending reaching $434.7 million.

Among music venue growth is the new 8,500-person Ford Akins Area which will have the Classic City legends, the B-52’s, as the opening concert in December.

Many other reputable music venues were mentioned, such as Wuxtry Records, 40 Watt, and The Flicker Theatre & Bar. Many relatively new restaurants were recommended for travelers coming into Athens such as Puma Yu’s, Seabear Oyster Bar, and Pretty Boy- which Top Chef contestant Kenny Nguyen opened this month.

While Athens is known for its streets on top of streets of bars, there are a few recommended “townie” bars that many college students don’t frequent. The Hidden Gem was the main one recommended, offering visitors curated cocktails and cozy lounge seating.

Mary Ryan Howarth is a recent graduate from the University of Georgia. She started as an intern at WUGA and quickly became a part-time reporter and producer. She also contributes to Athens News Matters and the Georgia Health Report. Some of Mary Ryan's interests include reading, arts and crafts, and running her podcast with her mom, HowARTh Gallery Gossip.