Situated 35 miles west of Huntsville International Airport (HSV), the city of Athens, Alabama feels a world away from the futuristic space center and arts scene in Huntsville, the Yellowhammer State's largest city. This charming Southern town offers the best of both worlds. If you'd prefer to drive instead of fly, you'll find Athens off Interstate 65, Exit 351, so it's a breeze to reach if you're a Southerner looking for a weekend getaway in Northern Alabama.
Founded in 1818, Athens is one of the oldest
cities in the state, and it still moves at a relaxed pace reminiscent of days gone by. Its historic downtown is lined with quiet streets, local boutiques, and beautifully preserved antebellum architecture. If you're a fan of the film "Sweet Home Alabama," Athens homes may put you in mind of the Carmichael plantation (although, ironically, the movie was primarily filmed in Georgia).
For travelers who are looking for a little Deep South hospitality, Athens is the perfect getaway, with tree-lined streets begging for a stroll and numerous local shops and restaurants. Whether you're mapping out a three-day weekend or planning to take the scenic route between Nashville and Birmingham, this small town deserves to be on your radar. It also happens to be just half an hour from Madison, notable as being Alabama's best place to live.
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Explore The Richard Martin Trail And Nature Escapes
Athens is known for its trail system, and the city's crown jewel is the 10.2-mile Richard Martin Trail. This converted railway, part of the Muscle Shoals Heritage Area, winds through woods, wetlands, and Civil War landmarks like the Battle of Sulphur Creek Trestle site. The path is perfect for a variety of visitors, including walkers, cyclists, and horseback riders. Along the way, you'll pass historic markers, a covered bridge, and wildlife viewing areas. Throughout the year, the trail celebrates events like Sassafras Tea Day in March. Guests can taste test fresh-brewed sassafras tea harvested directly from sassafras trees along the trail.
The Richard Martin Trail has three trailheads: Piney Chapel, Veto, and Elkmont. The South trailhead (near Piney Chapel Road) is closest to town at Coffman Mitchell Park. For those craving more nature, Joe Wheeler State Park is approximately 30 minutes west of the South trailhead and 25 minutes from downtown Athens. Located on the shores of Wheeler Lake, it offers boat rentals, fishing, waterfront cottages, and more. Visiting in the fall? Don't miss the famous foliage that turns this state park into a fiery red and orange wonderland. If you're really feeling ambitious, you can even drive about an hour south to the incredible Rickwood Caverns State Park.
Make sure to pack water, snacks, and sunscreen if you plan to spend most of the day outdoors near Athens, and don't forget bug spray in warmer months. Alabama, after all, is home to over 1,400 types of insects, many of which can be kept at bay with proper protection.
Visit The Museum And Stay Local
If you're less of an outdoor enthusiast and more of a townie, there's plenty to do in the Athens Main Street district, where the Limestone County Courthouse is the centerpiece. One must-see is the Alabama Veterans Museum and Archives, which was selected as a 2024 "Attraction of the Year" by the Alabama Mountain Lakes Tourist Association. Located in the restored L&N Freight Depot, the museum displays uniforms, weaponry, and personal stories from the Revolutionary War through the War in Afghanistan. It's open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., and admission is free, though donations are appreciated.
As for places to stay, Athens offers several options just off Interstate 65, minutes from downtown and local attractions. Hampton Inn & Suites Athens-Interstate 65 and Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Athens by IHG are both highly rated hotels offering free breakfast, Wi-Fi, and easy access to the highway and historic district. For travelers who prefer to stay in a home, Athens also has multiple Airbnb listings that will put you right in the heart of the town's historic charm.
Downtown Athens takes pride in offering a range of shops, restaurants, and events, including a farmers market. Stop into U.G. White Mercantile, a century-old general store that sells vintage gifts, cast-iron cookware, and local provisions, among other things. After you've shopped til you drop, check out Ro's Grille or LawLer's Barbecue. These are both top-rated family-owned dining establishments that serve traditional Southern comfort food. And, after a busy trip to this small town gem, grab a coffee and breakfast at the aptly named Hi-Plane Coffee before you drive home or catch your flight out of HSV.
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