Athens Area Guide

General Information

Located a mere 15 miles from the Tennessee State line, Athens is located in Limestone County, the population of around 19,000 people enjoying the small town life while reaping the benefits of the big city.

Although Athens has a history steeped in agricultural, in recent years it’s attracted major industries, diversifying the area, making it even more appealing to a wider range of people. Education is important in Athens, and their school system has won awards as well as being the home to Athens State University, educating students since the 1800’s.

With its diverse population, educational opportunities, recreational events, Athens has become the very meaning of the phrase, “Southern Comfort.”

 

History

Founded by John Coffee, Robert Beaty, John D. Carroll and John Read, Athens is one of the oldest incorporated cities in Alabama, having done so a mere one year before the state’s addition to the Union in 1819.
Athens was home to the first and second Governor of Alabama as well, William Wyatt Bibb and his brother Thomas Bibb, who succeeded him when W.W. Bibb died in a riding accident.

Although, as with all things, growth was minimal during the Civil War, afterwards, the pace began to pick up again and by 1934, Athens became the first city to get its electricity from the Tennessee Valley Authority.

Traditionally a cotton and railroad town, when the aerospace boom of the 1950’s hit, it has steadily moved into the more industrial area, following its nearby neighbor, Huntsville.

 

Attractions and Activities

Alabama Constitution Village
Located in downtown Huntsville, the A.C.V. is a living breathing history museum. Visitors can talk to the villagers in period clothing, walk through reconstructed Federal-style buildings and see what life was really like in the 1800’s.

Antebellum Trail
The Antebellum Trail flows through Limestone County and is the site of two of Alabama’s oldest town, Athens and Mooresville. Take a walk through history along this path and let yourself travel through time and still be back for dinner!

Belle Mont Mansion
One of the finest examples of Jefferson Palladian architecture, the brick u-shaped structure was built between 1828 and 1832 and one of the state’s first grant plantation homes. On the Alabama Historical Commission property, the mansion’s design was strongly influenced by Thomas Jefferson.

For a complete listing of attractions and activities in Athens and the surrounding area, visit: http://www.lceda.com/quality-of-life/area-attractions

 

Parks and Recreation

Open from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily, the city of Athens maintains five parks with all kinds of fun for the whole family! Playgrounds, walking tracks, baseball field as well as a pavilion, tennis courts and more. All you’ll need to do is bring your fun!

For a complete listing of parks in Athens and their amenities, visit: http://www.athensal.us/Departments/parks/ParkInfo.htm

 

Events

Art on the Square
This annual event promotes the works of local artists, typically featuring more than 40 artists. Held on the lawn at the Limestone County Courthouse, bring the family and just browse while you support your local artisans!

Athens Storytelling Festival
This annual festival celebrates the art of storytelling with stories being read by local and regional well known storytellers. Held in historical downtown Athens, just bring the kids and listen to some of the best tales ever.

Best Buckin’ BBQ Cook Off
Enjoy great bbq during this annual competition hosted by the Kansas City Barbecue Society while you get to listen to live music, let the kids play and more!