Maybe you only know Athens, Ohio as the home of Louis the ‘Awful Weatherman’. The ultra-nervous student newscast performance gained infamy as one of the internet’s early viral videos, and introduced millions of viewers to Athens, if only by accident.
Ohio University students know there is much more to this town of 25,000 nestled in southeast Ohio than inadvertent internet glory. Athens is chock full of restaurants, activities, and entertainment options to suit students of all tastes. Here are some of the best ways to spend a day in Athens, courtesy of Wharton Rentals, which has a number of Ohio University house rental options.
The Eats
No food is more synonymous with college life than pizza. College towns across the country are teeming these Italian pie parlors, and Athens is no exception. Avalanche Pizza is the top choice for many Ohio University alums, and with good reason. Avalanche Pizza has garnered numerous awards for its vast selection of gourmet signature pies. Be sure to try selections like ‘Crouching Kimchi, Hidden Chicken,’ and ‘The Skeletonwitch’.
If you’re looking for an affordable spot to sit down to a meal and a drink, try The Pigskin. It features freshly prepared dishes and a flair for southern BBQ. If you’re in the mood for a burger and a beer, this is the place. The XXX Burger, with homemade hot sauce, is meant to challenge your taste buds. The BBQ Pork Burger, meanwhile, adds the element of delicious pulled pork. You’re never far from a great meal, no matter where your Athens, Ohio student rental is.
The Activities
If you want to get back to nature, you won’t have to go far. Hocking Hills is situated just a few miles west of Athens and has a number of state parks and hiking trails to explore. Check out Cedar Falls. The 50-foot waterfall makes it a piece of natural beauty that isn’t to be missed. If you’re looking for a combination of natural beauty and history, look no further than Rock House. These granite and sandstone structures are native to Ohio, but look like they were imported from the deserts of Utah. Native Americans, pioneers and criminals have all utilized Rock House for their own purposes over the years. If you need something more adventurous, try the Hocking Hills Zipline and Canopy Tours. You’ll get the adrenaline pumping, and gain a fresh perspective on the beautiful landscape.
Hocking Valley Scenic Railway, on the other hand, is a unique way to see some of the countryside surrounding Athens. Located in Nelsonville, just 15 miles outside of Athens, it offers an array of regularly-scheduled and seasonal train rides. Sit back, relax, and an enjoy a trip on what is perhaps American’s most forgotten form of mass transportation. It’s an affordable way to see what’s out there.
The Entertainment
Blue Waterfall over Brown Rocks into large Pond
The biggest speakers, bands, shows, and comedians that come to Athens are likely to play Ohio University’s Memorial Auditorium. Five U.S. Presidents, from Eisenhower to Obama, have spoken there. The 2,000-seat venue is located in the heart of the Ohio University campus, and features a wide array of entertainment options. Broadway Musical fans won’t want to miss the hit show RENT, which is scheduled for two nights on Feb. 26-27.
Athens has plenty of ways to occupy your free time, no matter your preference. When you’re looking for Athens, Ohio rentals, look no further than Wharton Rentals. We have the student housing options to meet most every need and budget.
