Updated with current information for 2023
So you’re making the most of your housing rent at Ohio University by staying in Athens during the summertime. It definitely beats that land of suburban boredom known as your parents’ house. Even in the summertime, Athens is anything but boring. It ranked second in a USA Today Readers Choice Poll for 10 Best College Towns. The publication cited “The lush land surrounding the Hocking River… a beautiful setting…(and) a vibrant local music and arts scene” as its top reasons. “The city’s Appalachian setting adds a unique cultural twist and keeps prices affordable.”
Get to Know the Locals
Athens summertime is legendary for the locals. Bars are yours to own. Plus there are plenty of activities like Brew Week, the Nelsonville Music Festival, and Boogie on the Bricks to keep it festive. Take advantage of the elbow room and get to know the people in the neighborhood.
College Magazine’s tip for summertime in a college town? Make friends with the bartender and the locals on lazy happy hour afternoons. “Even if your summer entirely consists of unproductively sitting at your nearby watering hole every day, it’s much easier to establish rapport with the characters operating behind the bar than it would normally be from September to May.”
Experience the Outdoors
Even if you happen to live in one of the rare fancy luxury apartments Athens has to offer, that doesn’t mean you’re obligated to stay inside while the weather is so nice. Get out and explore! The Athens area is surrounded by beautiful nature and outdoor activities, making it the perfect place to spend your summer. Take a hike in the nearby Hocking Hills State Park, where you can explore waterfalls, caves, and scenic views. The Wayne National Forest is also nearby, offering miles of hiking and biking trails, as well as camping and fishing opportunities. The Hocking River is also a popular spot for kayaking and canoeing.
If a boat excursion is more your vibe, check out the Strouds Run boat rentals. They have just about everything you need to have an awesome outdoor day with your friends.
Afterwards, you can get back to that luxury rental and soak in the sunset with a nice view from your apartment. It’s the best of both (outdoor and indoor) worlds!
Explore the Arts and Culture
Athens is known for its vibrant arts and culture scene, and the summer is the perfect time to explore it. The Athens County Historical Society and Museum offers a glimpse into the area’s history, while the Kennedy Museum of Art at Ohio University showcases contemporary and traditional art from around the world. So, even if your mom or dad dragged you to one of these places during parents weekend, it still may be beneficial to revisit. After all, there’s no rule against learning during the summer!
Take a Day Trip
Located within driving distance of several major cities, Athens makes it easy to take a day trip to explore a new area. Head to Columbus, Ohio’s capital city, to visit the Ohio Statehouse, the Columbus Museum of Art, and the Franklin Park Conservatory. Or take a trip to Cincinnati to explore the Cincinnati Art Museum, the Cincinnati Zoo, and the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center. If you have parking at your rental, it shouldn’t be hard to get up and go explore!
Summer in Athens offers a unique blend of outdoor activities, arts and culture, and friendly locals, making it an ideal place to spend your summer off campus. Whether you’re looking to make new friends, explore nature, or immerse yourself in the local culture, Athens has something for everyone.