Football Road Trip to Athens, Georgia

If you are a fan of college football and one who loves to have a great time, nothing gets much better than a road trip to an opposing team's campus and a visit to the local surroundings during football season. If you have never had the experience of a game weekend in Athens, Georgia, you are definitely in for a treat and an experience of a lifetime. Here's a simple guide to having a fun and safe visit to the home of the Bulldogs and Classic City during the big game.

Lodging

Hotel rooms, campus lodging, and even RV spaces completely fill up well in advance. Local hotels and motels should be booked six to eight months in advance of the upcoming game. Sometimes patrons cancel out so you can call hotels directly to check available opens near game days. If you have friends or family connections, try to arrange a stay at their place. Otherwise, your best option is to stay in nearby Atlanta and make the less than 60 mile drive into town the day of the game. There is also an on campus hotel called the Georgia Center but if fills up swiftly as well.

Parking

You will not find parking on campus or close to the stadium on the day of the game. Premium parking goes to the big-time athletic contributors. Instead, seek out parking garages and private lots around town near the campus. From downtown Athens, the stadium is only a short stroll through the beautiful scenic north campus. Remember to arrive as early as possible or you might be forced to park on the far reaches of campus and take a shuttle bus. Most downtown parking can be had for $20 and lasts for the entire day.

The Stadium

Talk about atmosphere. Nothing can properly describe the experience of hanging out with over 90,000 people cheering and enjoying a great football game. Just note that an early arrival to the stadium will allow you to get around more freely and reach your seat with ease. Food and refreshments are readily available at designated concession stands throughout Sanford Stadium as well as mobile vendors. Special photographers will take your picture in the stadium and you can access your picture on line for purchase if you want a special photo of your visit. You should note that video cameras and umbrellas are forbidden in this venue.

Food

If you're into tailgating this is the place. In fact, you can choose a spot on campus to set-up your special tent, table, and favorite vittles. Better yet, just walk around and get to know people and discover what only a few brave souls know. Southern hospitality is alive and well. People will readily offer you samples and share healthy portions of all they have to offer. There may be no such thing as a free lunch, but all that will be required is usually a smile and a bit of college pigskin talk before your belly is full and your thirst has been quenched.

Restaurants

If you're more into the local scene and want to experience some of the local flare, don't fret. Just a short walk north of the stadium through the famous arches is downtown Athens. A fall day in the classic city brings out the best. The Last Resort Grill at 174-184 West Clayton Street will provide a fresh diverse selection of entrees, wines, and desserts. The red velvet cake is the perfect treat to match the Bulldog colors of red and black. Another great restaurant if you're hanging downtown is Harry Bissett's New Orleans Cafe. Expect the crowds to be there but it is well worth the wait at 279 East Broad Street for some good old Cajun food. Last but not least, don't ever visit Athens without stopping by the local soul food hangout of Weaver D's. Located at 1016 East Broad Street, this local eatery has it all to satisfy the greatest hunger. Owner Dexter Weaver is always there and he will let you know all about his "Automatic" food. Fried chicken, collards, corn bread, and all the southern delites await you at this establishment.

The Bar Scene and Entertainment

If a good drink is what you're searching for, don't miss out on visiting the Globe on the corner of Clayton and Lumpkin. There's draught beer, single malts, over 70 bottled varieties, and over 35 great wines to choose. Get there early in the evening and you'll enjoy some delicious complementary bread and cheese. The Globe also has a food menu, but nothing can beat the ambiance upstairs or down with the beverages that are offered. Another great bar is located at 240 North Lumpkin Street. The Nowhere Bar is something to experience. It is basically a small local hangout unique to Athens. Try it even if it you're a bit apprehensive from first site. If music and entertainment is your bag of tricks, the 40 Watt Club will not disappoint. Located at 285 W. Washington Street, the 40 Watt will most likely have an up and coming live band performing and will definitely have a large number of people seeking good music and dancing. You never know exactly which group will grace the establishment. Keep in mind that Athens gave birth to R.E.M., the B-52's, and Widespread Panic.

Overall, you'll find a game day visit to this neck of the woods very eventful, exciting, and enjoyable. Most places are walking distance, prices are reasonable, and the area is safe and well-patrolled by local authorities and campus police. A visit to see the Georgia Bulldogs in the classic city of Athens, Georgia is time well spent.