Athens, Ohio is a one-of-a-kind place. Your first time laying eyes on Ohio University's campus is the definition of love at first sight. Aside from the jaw-dropping architecture on campus and the classics on Court Street, Athens has a lot more to offer than we think. We're spoiled to have variety of restaurants and a campus so lively that we never want to step foot off of it. Sure, the bars are fun, and Chipotle never fails to disappoint, but, if you want to take advantage of what is around you, then you need to take a look at what's beneath the surface and check out these hidden gems.
Fun Barn/Movies 10 (14333 US-33, Nelsonville)
Here is the place to see the latest movies on a broke college student's budget. The price to see any movie, at any time, for any age is only $4! Along with their inexpensive movie tickets and snack bar, the Fun Barn is also home of the most entertaining arcade in the area. Although the drive is a little bit farther than the other theaters nearby, the $1 hot dogs make the drive well worth it.
Athens Farmers Market (1000 E. State St., Athens)
If you're ever craving the ripest fruits or veggies, the Athens Farmers Market is the place to fulfill your desire. The fresh items don't just stop there. There are a number of different vendors that sell baked goods, plants, produce, butter, soaps, honey and even gourmet dog treats! You're able to check out the Athens Farmers Market every Saturday from 9 a.m. to noon or on Thursdays from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. until September.
Larry's Dawg House (410 W. Union St., Athens)
This locally owned restaurant is the best place in town to get a hot dog and ice cream. (Sorry, Sonic). The food and ice cream menu is surprisingly extensive as they serve a number of different types of hot dogs, sandwiches, burgers and ice cream treats. Every Wednesday, better known as Weenie Wednesday, the corn dogs and hot dogs are only $0.99 all day long!
Rollerbowl Lanes (28 Palmer St., Athens)
Rollerbowl Lanes is a 16-lane center that has been family-owned and operated since 1958. If you're unable to fit PED 1206 into your semester schedule, you absolutely have to fit going here into your free time. There's always some sort of special going on, but Rollerbowl Lanes is notorious for being a BYOB bowling alley if you're 21 or over.
Ashby's Ice Cream (688 E. State St., Athens)
Without a doubt, Ashby's has the best hand-scooped ice cream in Athens. They have a variety of different flavors that are constantly changing. The portions are huge, so you're definitely getting what you pay for. They also sell an assortment of chocolate that could give See's Candies a run for their money!
Beads & Things (8 N. Shafer St., Athens)
This is the only beads store in Athens, and it's been open since 1990. They carry a variety of different beads from around the world. Prices start at a penny and go up to hundreds of dollars. You pick out your own beads, and the employees show you how to create your new piece of jewelry. Or you can look up the instructions online if you want to DIY your masterpiece in the comfort of your own home!
I may be biased, but Athens is simply the best college town out there. There's no reason to say, "I'm bored," while living in an area with such overflowing character. For a full list of shops, restaurants, or activities in Athens, visit the Athens County Visitors Bureau website. Don't be the person that eats at a fast food chain when the dining hall is closed and spends all of their time in their dorm room. Go out there and explore!
