Athens, Georgia
Spend a Dawg day afternoon in a town renowned for its Southern charm, killer bar scene, and love affair with the game. With 14 conference championship wins under their belts, the University of Georgia Bulldogs know football. And the town of Athens knows how to have a good time.
School: University of Georgia
Stadium: Sanford Stadium
Mascot: Georgia Bulldogs
Battle cry: 'How 'bout them dawgs?!”
Friday
4 p.m. Arrive at Georgia Game Day Center, the ultimate place to stay for football fans. These Bulldog-themed one-, two-, and three-bedroom suites are available to rent for the weekendor longer. Located two blocks from campus, they're the perfect base and even offer full kitchens so you can prep your tailgate before walking to the stadium.
5 p.m. Head to Hugh Acheson's 5 & 10 to snack on Southern-inspired dishes like black eyed pea hummus, day boat scallops, and a killer pimento cheese complete with bacon marmalade. Wash it all down with one of the restaurant's signature cocktails: The 13th Colony Cupa mix of Pimm's, bourbon, peach, lemon, and mintis a fitting way to toast the start of a weekend in Athens.
8 p.m. Catch a show at the famed Georgia Theatre, whose storied history dates back to 1889 (when it was built by the Athens YMCA). This incredible venue has hosted hometown rockers like R.E.M. and The B-52s and international sensations like The Police. Though it was gutted by a fire in 2009, it was gloriously restored and resurrected two years later. Be sure to grab drinks on The Roof Top and take in the stunning views of downtown Athens.
saturday
11 a.m. Nosh on award-winning game day grub at Last Resort Grill, including The Blow Oskar's Sistera grilled chicken sandwich with tomatillo chimichurri salsa and melted Monterey jack cheese, topped with fresh guacamoleor Chuck's Carolina crab cakes, and whet your pregame whistle with a Georgia Peach (Hangar One mandarin vodka, Leopold Georgia peach vodka, orange cream, and Vya sweet vermouth). And come early. Last Resort doesn't take reservations, and the wait, while worth it, can be up to two hours on football Saturdays.
1 p.m. Not in town for the game? Explore the local shopping scene. Heery's Clothes Closet in the heart of downtown offers designers like Marc Jacobs, Trina Turk, and Tibi. And if you're looking for a gift for the pigskin fan in your life, try Heery's Two. Just down the street from its sister store, this interiors boutique offers unique decor, including UGA-themed goods. If you're in the mood for a throwback, visit Agora, stocked with vintage art, clothing, jewelry, and vinyl.
3 p.m. Join 92,000 of your closest friends as you make your way to Sanford Stadium and cheer on the Bulldogs 'between the hedges.”
8 p.m. Recharge and refuel at Clocked! This after-game hot spot serves up to-die-for diner fare using organic local ingredients. The burgers and tots are sure to hit the spot after a long day of fun.
sunday
11 a.m. After sleeping off a win (or loss), gather at South Kitchen + Bar for brunch. Traditionalists will love the biscuits and gravy, banana pancakes, and Low Country shrimp 'n' grits, while the more daring diners won't be able to resist the fried green tomato Benny with bacon and hollandaise alongside white cheddar grits. Also available: the Meatatarian Skillet, which consists of hash browns covered with onions, bacon, pork belly, apple-sage sausage, cheddar cheese, and a fried egg.
