Have you ever experienced spring in Athens? It hits different. The Hocking Hills turn green, the patio tables come out on Court Street, and suddenly everyone’s outside again. If you’re an OU student looking to make the most of the warmer months, here are some ideas of things to do in Athens, Ohio.
Things to Do on Campus and Court Street
When the sun comes out, campus and uptown Athens come alive fast. There’s always something going on within walking distance, especially if you have a Court Street apartment.
- Grab a coffee and sit outside at Donkey Coffee on Court Street
- Browse vintage finds at the shops along Court Street
- Check out the Athens Farmers Market
- Eat outside at Casa Nueva or grab a cone from Dairy Barn
Outdoor Study Spots to Try
Studying inside all semester gets old. When the weather breaks, take your laptop or notebook somewhere with fresh air!
- College Green is a classic for a reason! Find a spot under the trees
- The Ridges grounds offer quiet, shaded areas away from the crowds
- Grab an iced coffee and set up on a patio along Court Street. You might even find other things to do in Athens, Ohio
- Strouds Run State Park has picnic tables if you want to really escape campus
Best Places to Get Outside and Move
There are more outdoor things to do in Athens, Ohio, than most students realize. Whether you’re into hiking, running, or just moving your body, there’s a lot to work with here.
- Hike the trails at Strouds Run State Park, just a short drive from campus
- Run or walk the Hockhocking Adena Bikeway along the river
- Rent a kayak or canoe at Strouds Run when water levels are good
- Explore the Sunday Creek Trail for a quieter, less crowded option
- Play pickup sports at the Ping Recreation Center or the outdoor courts on campus
Weekend Hangouts and Social Spots
Warm weekends in Athens are what you’ll actually remember from college. Get off the couch and make the most of them!
- Hit the rooftop or patios at uptown bars when the weather’s nice
- Host a cookout at a house with a yard. There are plenty of spots on Congress or State Street
- Take a day trip to Old Man’s Cave in Hocking Hills (about 30 minutes away)
- Walk across the Nelsonville Arch trail for views of the surrounding valley
- Spend a Saturday afternoon hanging out on someone’s front porch uptown
Spring Events and Seasonal Happenings
The spring semester in Athens comes with some events worth putting on your calendar.
- Ohio University’s Spring Fest brings live music and outdoor activities to campus
- Keep an eye on the Baker University Center for outdoor things to do in Athens, Ohio
- Watch for live music and outdoor events at Templeton-Blackburn Memorial Auditorium
- OU’s Relay for Life and other outdoor fundraisers pick up in April and May
Tips for Making the Most of the Warm Weather
The warm months in Athens go fast, especially when finals and end-of-semester chaos kick in. A little planning goes a long way.
- Block off at least one weekend day per week for something outside
- Keep a light jacket handy since Athens spring weather can flip quickly
- Walk or bike when you can; parking uptown is always a headache
- Follow @ouathletics and local Athens pages for surprise outdoor events
- Make a list of things you’ve been meaning to do in Athens
Live Closer to It All With Wharton Rentals
The best way to enjoy the warm weather is to actually be close to things to do in Athens, Ohio. Wharton Rentals has off-campus houses and Court Street apartments right in the heart of it all. You could walk to a lot of activities in minutes, have a front porch for hanging out, and still be a short stroll from campus.
Check out available properties and find a place that puts you right in the middle of Athens when it’s at its best!
