Updated with current information for 2023
So you’ve decided to stay in Athens during the summertime. Either you’ve signed on to Ohio University’s Summer Sessions, or you’ve decided staying at the house you have to pay three months summer rent in Athens Ohio is a much better alternative to putting up with your parents. Some students assume Athens is a haven of boredom during the summer months. They couldn’t be more wrong. There’s a reason the locals love it. The laidback life of Athens during the summer months can get addicting.
As the Athens News Terry Smith put it in an editorial singing the praises of summertime in Athens last year, “Summer in Athens not only has a varied, truer, more interesting mix of human beings than other times of year; it also features an impressive slate of incredible festivals. People-watching is among the best things about the Nelsonville Music Festival, Boogie on the Bricks, the Ohio Brew Week events, the Athens County Fair, Parade of the Hills in Nelsonville and the Athens Community Music Festival.”
A Different Perspective on the Town You Love
Spend summer in the house you’ve rented at Ohio University and see Athens in a different light. You’ll be glad you did. It’s a great chance to get to know the people, the culture and the sights before life gets back to normal.
In Athens, Ohio, summer offers a different perspective on the town you love. Without the bustling student population, the town takes on a quieter, more relaxed feel. Athens is known for its beautiful brick streets, historic architecture, and friendly locals. During the summer months, this charm is even more apparent. Take a stroll through the Athens Farmers Market, visit the Dairy Barn Arts Center, rent a boat at Strouds Run, or walk along the Hocking River. The slower pace of life allows you to enjoy the beauty of Athens without the hustle and bustle of the academic year.
One of the highlights of summertime in Athens is the opportunity to attend some of the town’s festivals. The Nelsonville Music Festival, Boogie on the Bricks, Ohio Brew Week, the Athens County Fair, Parade of the Hills, and the Athens Community Music Festival are just a few of the events that take place during the summer months. These festivals offer a chance to experience the town’s rich arts and culture scene and to mingle with locals who are passionate about the town they call home. From music and food to art and crafts, there’s something for everyone at these events. If you live with a bunch of roommates, in say a three or four bedroom rental, consider getting them to stay for the summer and bring them along, too!
Get outside and enjoy fewer people and more good times
One of the best ways to experience Athens during the summer is to take advantage of the great outdoors. The town is located in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, providing ample opportunities for hiking, biking, and other outdoor activities.
Take a hike in Strouds Run State Park, go canoeing or kayaking on the Hocking River, or spend a day at Lake Hope State Park. The summer weather in Athens is perfect for spending time outside, and the natural beauty of the area is truly breathtaking.
If you’re looking for a more low-key way to enjoy the outdoors, take a leisurely walk through the Ohio University campus if you live nearby. The campus is home to many beautiful buildings, including Cutler Hall, the oldest building on campus, and the Baker University Center, a modern hub of student activity. The campus is also home to the Kennedy Museum of Art, which houses a collection of over 4,000 works of art. Take a break from the summer heat and explore the cool, air-conditioned galleries.
Or if you’re really feeling lazy, maximize that yard space at your student rental and play some fun outdoor games with friends. We have a great list of options here. Afterwards, enjoy your apartment’s view by watching an incredible Athens sunset. Remember, the best apartments in Athens aren’t luxury rentals, but great spaces to create lasting memories with friends.
Take advantage of smaller crowds and try something new this summer
Another great way to experience Athens during the summer is to take part in community events. If your rental has parking, consider taking a ride to the Athens County Public Libraries to check out the variety of programs they have for all ages, including story times for kids, book clubs for adults, and computer classes for seniors. The Athens Community Center offers fitness classes, dance classes, and other activities throughout the summer. And if you’re feeling adventurous, sign up for a class at the Athena Cinema, where you can learn about film history and production.
Of course, one of the biggest draws of Athens during the summer is the lack of crowds. With fewer students in town, you’ll be able to enjoy the town’s restaurants, shops, and attractions without having to fight for a seat or wait in long lines – this means great nights Uptown on Court Street without having to worry about huge throngs of students mobbing the streets. Take advantage of the slower pace of life and explore the town at your own pace. Try out a new restaurant or visit a shop you’ve never been to before. You may be surprised by what you find.
Also, as an aside – summer is moving season in Athens. If you’re planning on moving to a new place over the warmer months, make sure to book a moving truck rental ASAP. Spots fill up quick!
Overall, spending summertime in Athens, Ohio, offers a chance to experience the town in a different light. Whether you’re a student staying in Ohio University summer housing or a local looking for a change of pace, there’s plenty to enjoy.
From festivals and outdoor activities to community events and leisurely strolls, Athens has something for everyone during the summer months. So sit back, relax, and enjoy the laidback beauty of summertime Athens life.