Where to Go to Check Out the Athens, Georgia's Music Scene

Athens, Georgia isn't your typical Southern town. While it's been awhile since Athens stamped its name on the American music scene with bands like R.E.M., the Indigo Girls, and B-52s, it's still one of America's music cities. When I worked in Atlanta it was fun to be able to drive up for some good live music. Here's a look at places where it can still be found.

Athfest
Annual early summer event, downtown Athens
Athfest fans celebrated the festival's 15th year in 2011, with a diverse lineup that will give you the opportunity to enjoy a variety of music. Athens is a college town, and with Athfest held when most classes are out, you get a wider age group. Families with children to grandparents take in some music.

40 watt club
285 West Washington St.
The Athens version of CBGB, the 40 Watt Club has seen many an up-and-coming act play. It's the place to see if you want to take in the history of the Athens alt-music scene. More than 30 years of music have been played under the name, which comes from some of the original lighting. You can't go to Athens for music and not at least stop by.

Flagpole magazine
Guide to all that's happening musically in Athens, check it online or grab a paper copy when you get to Athens and plan your musical outing.

Caledonia Lounge
256 West Clayton St.
Seems a little hard to find, it's almost directly behind the 40 Watt Club. It's a smaller and more intimate venue, which is always better if the band is good. Hosting local, regional, and smaller touring bands, Caledonia Lounge is the best small space in town.

Farm 255
255 West Washington St.
A little more on the mellow side, Farm 255 also has a great restaurant serving local and sustainable foods sourced from their own farms. A great dinner deserves some good music after, and the bar provides. It's a good place to start your evening before making the rounds, as all the venues listed above are very close to each other.

Georgia Theater
215 North Lumpkin St.
Another venerable mainstay of the Athens music scene, the Georgia Theater had seen a lot, but was gutted by a fire in 2009. It since has been rebuilt, and although it might not have the same history, or the seedy atmosphere, it's been renovated quite nicely.