So now that your child is going to be a Dawg, you are probably enjoying that big sigh of relief, but hold on! Not so fast! Because, in Athens, the next big thing you must prepare for is football. It is never too early to start talking about and planning for the University of Georgia Football home games. And here, I’m going to do my best to break it all down for you.

For students, football tickets are not free. Home games are not pricey but away games can be expensive. Students do get to apply for their tickets, but if they end up not using them, then they can be penalized for that. Turning tickets back in before the games will keep you in good standing. The UGA student ticket policy states all of the rules. For parents and friends, tickets can be purchased through StubHub and you better purchase them as soon as you can because they go fast.

Traditions

Gameday begins with the infamous Dawg Walk where fans line the streets to watch the Dawgs and coaches make their way to Sanford Stadium. Saturday in Athens officially begins after the Redcoat Band trumpet player plays the first notes of Battle Hymn in the stadium. At the beginning of the fourth quarter, whether it is 3 o’clock, 7 o’clock, or 10 o’clock, all Georgia fans whip out their phones, turn on their flashlights, and chop their hands in unison. This is known as “Light Up Sanford” and it’s a beautiful sight to see. After the game (when we win), you will see fans rush to the Chapel Bell to ring it for our victory.

Like many other big schools, UGA has their share of chants both before, during and after games. You will hear “Who’s that coming down the track?” plenty of times, as well as the “Calling of the Dawgs” that goes like, ‘Gooooooooo Dawgs! Sic ‘em! Woof! Woof! Woof! Woof! Woof!

Downtown Athens is so much fun after home games. A lot of the eateries and bars stay open late and students will flock to places to continue their celebrations. They are all within walking distance, so just follow the crowds if you want to join in.

Specifics

When the football season starts, the games are hot! But as Fall rolls in, the games change from comfortable to down-right cold. No matter where you sit, you’ll have a great view of the game, but the “best seats” in the stadium are in sections 106-108 and 130-132 near midfield, above row 10. For covered seating: rows 58 and up in Section 132 and 136, row 54 and up in Section 121, row 1 and up in Section 220, 235, and 237, and rows 25 and up in Section 302 and 310. Visitor seating is in Sections 101-103, 144, and 601-611.

Like most stadiums across the country, UGA does have a clear bag policy that must be followed. There are great shops in and around campus that offer cute clear bag choices.

2020 Schedule

• September 26, 2020 – vs Arkansas Razorbacks – Fayetteville, AK
• October 3, 2020 – vs Auburn Tigers – home
• October 10, 2020 – vs Tennessee Volunteers – home
• October 17, 2020 – vs Alabama Crimson Tide – Tuscaloosa, AL
• October 24, 2020 – vs Kentucky Wildcats – Lexington, KY
• November 7, 2020 – vs Florida Gators – Jacksonville, FL
• November 14, 2020 – vs Missouri Tigers – Columbia, MO
• November 21, 2020 – vs Mississippi State Bulldogs – home
• November 28, 2020 – vs  South Carolina Gamecocks – Columbia, SC
• December 5, 2020 – vs Vanderbilt Commodores – home

As far as staying in a hotel for the games, you better book early! They fill up as soon as the new football schedule is released. Rooms can be pricey, so be sure to check sooner rather than later. Check out our blog on Hotels for more information.

Pregaming Is No Joke!

The first home game that I attended introduced me to a whole new level of “tailgating” that I had not seen before. Fans have actual satellites mounted to their vehicles so that they can hook up big-screen TVs to watch other games. They have huge buffets set up with decorations galore, that make you feel like you are in a living room.

On-campus, people like to set up in Myers Quad, the UGA Parking lots, Greek Park Circle, and on Milledge Avenue. Just off-campus you will see tailgaters in the Downtown Parking decks, at Tailgate Station, at Bulldog Park, and at all the bars and restaurants in downtown Athens. Be advised that UGA buses do not run on game days, and certain roads may be closed.

Finally, Don’t forget your Georgia gear.  For students, check out our blog on Game Day attire. And for us parents, we suggest gameday outfits that may be a tad more your style.

Go Dawgs!

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So, you have a student ready to spend the next four years as a Georgia Bulldog? Well, put your seatbelt on because you are getting ready to experience all that a top 10 American university can offer.

Being the birthplace of higher education, the University of Georgia has a long history of founding accomplishments. It is the state of Georgia’s flagship institution. UGA is in the top three producers of Rhodes scholars and has produced many famous athletes as well as scientists and other leaders. HaveUHeard that UGA is number one in total products reaching the market? They have scores of patents that their students and professors have created.

UGA is located in the town of Athens, which is about an hour northeast of Atlanta. It is a college town, bearing all things UGA and known for its antebellum architecture. It’s Victorian-era downtown is filled with art galleries, shops, nightclubs, and award-winning restaurants, pleasant and perfect to spend the next four years. Athens has a thriving music scene and is the starting place of R.E.M and the B-52’s. Being so close to the bustling city of Atlanta, students attending UGA have the luxury of going to school in a quaint small town, and can also enjoy the culture, sports, and events that a major city can offer.

The University of Georgia has over 37,000 students with campuses in 5 Georgia locations, Washington DC, England, and Italy. It consists of 17 colleges with 25 Baccalaureate degrees in more than 143 fields. You probably already know Georgia’s amazing NCAA Division 1 football record, but UGA also has 21 Varsity athletic teams. The Georgia Bulldogs are a force in college athletics. The most famous bulldog around resides in Athens and is the school’s mascot. Affectionately he is known as Uga, and you will see him around all UGA events and activities in Athens. Getting your picture taken with Uga is a rite of passage when you are a part of the University of Georgia, so make sure you check that box in the next four years.

Don’t forget to grab your spot to watch the Dawg Walk before home football games. The Redcoat Marching Band leads the cheering of the fans as the team walks into Sanford Stadium. Get ready, and Go Dawgs!

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No student at the University of Georgia has the exact same experience as another, but there are a couple of bucket list things that every student must try during their time at UGA. Below are the Bucket List items that students should aspire to cross off as a student and when they should try to do them.

Orientation

Swim in the Fountain on Herty Field: This is a long time tradition where students go to North Campus late at night during orientation and hop in the Herty Field fountain. Pictures will be taken, friends will be made, and after doing this, one will officially feel like they are part of the UGA family.

Fall Semester Bucket List

• Walk on Dooley Field @ Sanford Stadium: After everyone is moved in, there will be a HUGE event at Sanford Stadium called the “Freshman Welcome”, this will be a time to meet friends, eat food, and take the iconic “super G” class photo on Dooley Field. There will then be a time for you to run around the field and take your own photos with your friends… although it will be blazing hot, go! It is so fun!
• Go to a football game (home and away): This one is a must for all students, you have to experience a Georgia Football game at least once as a student. It is insanely fun to be in the student section, surrounded by your friends, cheering for the dawgs. The same goes for away games, nothing beats road tripping with your friends to see the dawgs play, so try to make this happen at least once while you are a student. Also – you will never again in your life be able to buy Georgia Football tickets for cheaper than you can as a student, so take advantage of that now!
• Iron Horse Picnic: Getting to the Iron Horse is somewhat of a trek, but the mystery and secrecy that surrounds it make it a major hub for student visits. It is exactly what you would think, an iron horse statue out in the middle of a field… During the fall I recommend taking a blanket, some fast food, and watching the most beautiful sunsets possible.
• Saint Simons Island Frat Beach (Greek Tradition): Frat Beach is one of the most fun Greek Traditions at the University of Georgia. Since UGA’s fall break is the Friday before the Georgia vs Florida game, all of Greek Life heads down to Saint Simon’s beach Thursday night and wakes up Friday morning to head to the beach dressed up in costumes, hanging out, and celebrating Halloween/the Dawgs. Then, Saturday morning, some students wake up and head to Jacksonville to attend the game while others crowd living rooms and restaurants to watch the dawgs together.

Spring Semester

• Fraternity Spring Party: Many people think that Fraternity spring parties are only for Greek life to attend, but in reality, all are welcome. These parties span from March to April and have different themes, different bands, and are at different times, so when March rolls around, keep an ear out for the dates and themes and come ready to party, dance, and hang out with tons of people.
• Baseball Game: If you are a baseball fan, you definitely want to get a hold of the schedule and plan to make it to a few games at Foley. They are free to all students and are tons of fun to attend with friends!
• Basketball Game: Both men’s and women’s basketball games happen at Stegman Coliseum and are free to students if they present their student IDs at the door. This is a very easy way to be a part of sporting events on campus and cheer on your peers. Another cool thing about basketball games is the cool giveaways they do for students throughout the season. Make sure you at least go to one as a student because they are such fun!!
• Gymnastics Meet: These also happen at Stegman Coliseum and are free to students. They are so fun and interactive and give students fun activities to do during the winter!! These gymnasts are amazing, so make sure you at least make it to a meet as a student.
• Spring Break with your friends: Wherever you choose to go and whatever you choose to do, make sure that at least once, all of your friends get together and go on a Spring Break trip. These trips create the best memories and are so much fun. Even if it is just once, make sure you try to do something with your friends for Spring Break. You can make them as expensive or as cheap as you’d like, and there are so many places to go to. Start planning early though, because popular places will book up fast!
• Walk Milledge Avenue: Milledge Ave is the road in Athens that has most of the sorority houses and some fraternity houses. Even if you are not in Greek life, walking this road is a great workout and also gives some pretty scenery and gorgeous houses to look at. The fall and springtime are the best times to walk this and it is accessible to all the dorms and places on campus! Walking down Milledge will allow you to see friends, puppies, and make great memories!
• Botanical Gardens: Most people forget about this one, but the Botanical Gardens are some of the prettiest grounds on Georgia’s Campus. It is a little bit of a trek to get to, but you can either walk or run the trails and see all of the beautiful plants, flowers, and trees that are grown there.

Anytime

• Attend a Georgia Theater Concert: The Georgia Theater is one of the oldest venues in Athens, and it houses concerts every week. These concerts have seat tickets and standing room tickets available and are usually pretty cheap concert tickets. It is a smaller venue, so it is up close and personal to your favorite artists. Make sure you check the age requirements on the tickets because some are 18+ and require ID to be shown at the door.
• Snellibrating: This is one of the most iconic things you can do as a student at UGA. The Snelling Dining Hall is open 24 hours on Sunday night after 12, Monday night, Tuesday night, Wednesday night, and Thursday night, but at midnight it switches to breakfast food. So whether you have the midnight munchies, are hungry after a long night of studying, or need some food after a night on the town, Snellibrating is eating at Snelling after midnight and is such a fun thing to do with your friends.
• Watch a movie at Tate Theater: The Tate Theater is a free way to watch movies on campus and UGA lets you bring in food to eat and enjoy the show. They play up to date movies, so they get packed quickly, so make sure you check the schedule so you get a seat and don’t miss the beginning of the movie!
• Ring the Chapel Bell: This is a longstanding tradition at UGA, once you have finished your finals, crazy hard assignments, or difficult weeks, you go to North Campus and ring the bell to celebrate it being over or getting a good grade on your assignments.

For 21+

• Have a “perfect week”: A “perfect week” is where you go out to bars downtown 7 nights in a row, this is an accomplishment that many people pride themselves in, and is one that takes planning, perseverance, and a lot of sleep beforehand.
• Attend Power Hour @ Bourbon: Power Hour occurs at the Bourbon Street Bar every night from 10-11, this is where wells (mixed drinks) are only $1 from Monday night to Thursday night. On Friday and Saturday night, they are $2. These are the cheapest drink specials downtown and therefore, Bourbon is the perfect place for you to start your evening on the town.
• Finish a Pauley’s beer card: Pauley’s Crepe Bar has cards with all of their beers on it, and every time you finish a beer, they will cross it off your card. Upon finishing your whole card, your photo will go up in the restaurant downtown. This is such a fun way to try new beers and in turn, get your face up in a restaurant downtown for completing a very rigorous and time-consuming task.

Madeleine Morris, UGA Intern

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The first time that you drop off your student can be stressful and confusing. Planning is the key to a smooth move. Since most parents go with their students to help move them in, it is important to know the ins and outs of traveling to and from Athens. There are some options when it comes to getting to Athens. Since you probably won’t be picking them up and delivering them back to campus very often, here are some ways to get them to and from UGA.

For areas within Athens-Clarke County, students can ride Athens Transit for free. This bus system has a couple of stops on and around campus. For areas outside of Athens, including Atlanta and beyond, there are a few services offered. Atlanta’s International airport is about an hour and a half drive from Athens. Groome Transportation offers 23 daily round trips from Athens to the Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport seven days a week. It is $41 each way and is an easy option for students. Southeastern Stages also operates in Atlanta, Augusta and beyond. They are charter busses, have a stop in Athens, and fares are around $36 each way. A popular company that services many universities in many states is Megabus. Their fares can be as little as a dollar. When looking for a fare from Athens to Charlotte, NC over the holiday break, the quote was from $5.00 – $15.00 depending on the time of departure. That was for a round trip transportation! It’s always a good idea to ask around about any of the bus options. They may be inexpensive, but be mindful of how long the trip will be and how many stops your student will have to go through.

Freshmen are allowed to have cars on campus at UGA, so driving is, of course, another option. Carpooling, especially over holiday breaks is also common among students. And it’s a great way to make new friends and share in the cost of gas. Don’t forget to check the student and parent chat boards, sorority/fraternity/dorm/club boards, as well as Facebook pages for posts on drive-sharing.

On-Campus Bus System

The UGA Campus Transit is the on-campus form of transportation for students. It has live maps and schedules for students available right on their phones. This is the easiest way to get around campus, aside from walking. There are stops from downtown to the main campus, to Milledge (where most of the sorority/fraternity houses are). Student Government is partnered with the transit system and works to make stops more efficient. Be sure to click here for the most recent updates and schedules. Games and on-campus events may cause changes to the schedules and points of pick up and drop-offs.

Bicycles

Although walking and campus buses are the most common way to get around, students with bikes will find that they are not only riding on campus but maybe on the roads, since UGA is in the heart of Athens. Bike paths are plenty, but caution is always necessary. The campus and town are very hilly so beware where you are riding. If you will be riding at night, it is required that you have a white front light, and a red rear reflector or you can accrue a $150 fine. UGA is currently looking into an electric bike-share program with multiple on-campus locations. Click here to follow the information on that.

No matter how you get around, remember that UGA is in the middle of town. Always stay alert and watch for cars and walkers.

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Athens is home to a Victorian-style downtown filled with art galleries, trendy shops, world-renowned nightclubs, and amazing dining. The gardens and architecture make this college town a great place to stay and explore. There are a lot of things to do and see in Athens, but booking a hotel can be tricky during football season, basketball season, and during other large events. If you are planning on attending a game and need a room, plan far ahead as the hotel’s book, sometimes even a year in advance.

There are all different things to take into consideration when booking. Some may want a suite-type room, free breakfast, a gym, or a Starbucks in the lobby. Some families look for pet-friendly hotels (because what college kid doesn’t want a visit from their pet?), and even hotels where they can earn points.

Since you will be doing this for at least four years, I recommend staying at the same brand hotel each time so you can accrue reward points. These points can earn you free nights and breakfasts. Also, compare prices online. Oddly, you can find various prices for the same hotel on different sites. You can book directly through the different hotel brands listed below or book through a website like Reservations.com, Expedia or Hotels.com.so you can accumulate points there as well.

Hotels and Options

HaveUHeard that UGA has a hotel right on campus? The University of Georgia Hotel and Center for Continuing Education is only a 1/3 mile walk to Sanford Stadium and lets you feel like you are a part of the campus. There are microwaves, coffee makers, and refrigerators in every room and bikes are available to borrow to explore the campus. There are shuttles to downtown and if you really want to get the UGA experience, staying at this hotel gives you exclusive access to all things UGA. Experience the State Museum of Art, State Botanical Gardens, golf courses, walking trails, tailgating, and more. Just show your room key and you will have access to the Ramsey Student Center which includes indoor swimming pools, basketball courts, weight lifting, a climbing wall, an indoor track, and more. The UGA Hotel offers a Parent Club that lets you earn free nights and more. Click to register. The Bulldog Bistro offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner in the hotel.

If you are looking for a chain hotel, and to possibly keep your point-earning streak alive, there are many choices listed below. Independent hotel options include the Georgia Gameday Center on Broad Street. As I said, there are a lot of choices, but remember that in a small town with a large university, finding a room at a reasonable rate takes planning.

Hilton Hotels

Hilton Garden Inn – 390 E. Washington St. Athens, GA

Homewood Suites – 750 E. Broad St. Athens, GA

Hyatt Hotels

Hyatt Place Downtown – 412 N. Thomas St. Athens, GA

Marriott

Courtyard Athens Downtown – 166 N. Finley St. Athens, GA

IHG Hotels

Holiday Inn – 197 E. Broad St. Athens, GA

Hotel Indigo – 500 College Ave. Athens, GA

Wyndham

Wingate by Wyndham –  255 North Avenue. Athens, GA

Best Western

Best Western Athens – 170 N. Milledge Ave. Athens, GA

Bed & Breakfasts

The Colonels B&B Inn – 3890 Barnett Shoals Rd. Athens, GA

Other Things to Think About

Yes, the Georgia Bulldogs are a huge part of Athens, but there is a large community of music and nightlife events there too. This is important to remember when planning your stay, as the hotels near campus are the same that will accompany concert goers and festival participants. To check out some events, groups, and their schedules, start looking here.

No matter what the case, your Bulldog will love your visit, and you will fall in love with Athens! While visiting, check out our recommendations for places to eat for breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner.

Go Dawgs!

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Athens and the UGA area offer lots of great places to eat. Here are some of our favorite places to go to dinner.

• Cali N Titos – This super casual, Latin American stop is sure to please. The outdoor location on Lumpkin takes cash only and you can BYOB, but know that they are closed on Mondays. They also have an indoor location on the East Side that is not BYOB and takes a card.
• Chuck’s Fish –This high-end seafood restaurant is sure to provide you the freshest fish and sushi selection Athens has to offer. They are open from 4 pm – 10 pm on Monday-Thursday and from 4 pm – 11 pm on Friday and Saturday. If you are here on a gameday or parents weekend, we recommend making reservations.
• DePalmas – This popular Italian restaurant has three different locations in Athens that all offer different feels and atmosphere. The hours for each of them are different, so make sure you look online prior to heading to eat to make sure they are open.
• Donna Chang’s: Between classic cocktails, wines, traditional dishes, and ice cream this place has everything you need for a nice date or a group of friends for a great evening out.
• Five Bar – This creative take on the restaurant business offers five dinners, five wines, and five signature cocktails that rotate weekly to give you truly a new experience every time you are in.
• Five & Ten – For an upscale dinner, this is sure to please. Their seasonally driven menu offers different specialties on different days. Think, Burger night, Ramen night, etc. with a fancier flare. They are open from 5:30 pm to 9:30 pm on Monday-Thursday and from 5:30 pm to 10:00 pm on Friday-Saturday. They are closed on Sundays.
• Fuzzy’s Taco Shop – This chain is popular with UGA students. Located on Lumpkin, the Cheesy Queso with Beef is delicious. They are open from 11:00 am to 10:00 pm Sunday-Wednesday, till 11:00 pm on Thursdays, and till 12:00 am Friday-Saturday.
• George’s Low Country Table – This back of the bayou Lousianna feel restaurant located in the heart of Athens is sure to make you feel like you are in the midst of Mardi Gras. They have all of your low country favorites, and of course spices galore. they are open Monday-Friday from 4 pm – 9 pm, Saturday from 2 pm – 9 pm, and Sunday from 11 am – 9 pm.
• Hilltop Grille – This is one of the nicer steak and seafood houses in Athens, and is away from the craziness of downtown. Enjoy an elegant 3, 4, or 5-course meal here, you are guaranteed to love everything you order. They are open 4 pm – 9 pm on Mondays, 11 am – 10 pm on Tuesday and Wednesday, 11 am to 11 pm on Thursday through Saturday, and 10 am to 9 pm on Sundays.
• Iron Factory – This Korean BBQ Lounge has some of the most interesting and delicious dishes and desserts in Athens. They also offer karaoke that brings enjoyment to any meal. You have to reserve the room for karaoke, and there is a fee, but it is so worth it. They are open from Sunday to Thursday from 5 pm – 12 am, on Friday and Saturday from 5 pm to 2 am.
• La Parilla – If you want hometown Mexican, this is the place for you. Best known for their weekly bar specials and their Blue Margarita Thursdays; this is not something you want to miss out on. They have 3 different locations and their hours vary, so be sure to check the website before heading to get a meal.
• Marker 7 – Another great seafood option in Athens is right on Milledge Ave. They offer amazing lunch and dinner fish options with salads and perfectly paired sides. Their brunch is also extremely popular, so make sure you try that too if you can. They are open on Mondays from 4 pm – 9 pm, Tuesday-Thursday from 11 am to 9 pm, Friday-Saturday from 11 am to 10 pm, and on Sundays from 11 am – 9 pm.
• Porterhouse Grill – Another popular restaurant in Athens that is located in downtown, that is less casual than the typical steakhouse but nicer than the typical restaurant. You can get anything here from prime rib to sandwiches to seafood pasta, so it really is a place for everyone. They are open for lunch at 11:30 and dinner at 5 Monday-Friday and dinner at 5 on Saturdays.
• Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers – This fast-food favorite is popular with the students at UGA. It’s kind of like Zaxby’s and is on Baxter Street. It is open from 10:00 am to 1:00 am every day.
• Rusan’s Athens – Here you will find the most traditional Japanese food in Athens as well as some of the most creative spins on those traditional dishes. They also have the biggest selection of sushi in Athens. They are closed on Sundays but are open from 11:30 am – 10 pm Monday through Saturday.
• Seabear Oyster Bar – Yes, you can get great seafood in Athens! Amazing oysters and creative dishes are offered here on Prince Ave. They are open from 3:00 pm to 12:00 am seven days a week.
• Shokitini – This Japanese restaurant is one of the hot spots for dinner in Athens since they offer karaoke with dinner. Whether it is you and your friends, your family, or just a bunch of people in general, reserving the karaoke room is bound to have you laughing all night long. They are open Monday through Saturday from 5 pm – 2 am and Sunday from 5 pm – 12 am.
• South Kitchen & Bar – The beautiful setting for this Southern restaurant makes for a nice place to take the parents. Located on Washington Street, it is open from 4:00 pm to 10:00 pm on Monday-Thursday and Sunday. On Friday-Saturday it is open from 4:00 pm to 11:00 pm. Check out their happy hour starting at 3:00 pm Monday-Friday.
• Taqueria del Sol – This indoor/outdoor Mexican restaurant is perfect for a casual dinner out in the Normaltown area of Athens. They are open from 11:30 am – 2 pm and 5 pm – 8:30 pm on Monday through Friday; 12 pm – 3 pm and 5 pm – 8:30 pm on Saturdays; they are closed on Sunday.
• Taqueria Tsunami – This Latin-Asian fusion restaurant brings together two favorites into flavorful tacos, bowls, margaritas, and more. They have 2 locations in Athens depending on the feel you want, whether it be downtown or more of an outskirts vibe, check their locations for their hours.
• The Grit – This vegetarian restaurant is known for its great food and visits from performers in the music industry. It’s small but their food has tons of flavor. They offer really interesting beers too. It’s located on Prince Avenue and is open for dinner from 5:00 pm to 9:30 pm on Sunday-Wednesday and from 5:00 pm to 10:00 pm Thursday-Saturday.
• The Last Resort Grill – Found in the original spot of the Last Resort club from the ’60s, this restaurant has a wonderful southern flare on some classics. They use local vendors and pride themselves on their chef’s craftmanship. Try the Fried Green Tomatoes and the 6 Hour Pig. Located in Downtown on Clayton Street, they are open Monday-Saturday from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm and then from 5:00 pm to 10:00 pm. On Sundays they open at 10:00 am and on Fridays and Saturdays, they close at 11:00 pm.
• The Place – Some of the best southern food can be found here. Located on Broad Street, The Place uses old family recipes and is owned by UGA graduates. They are open 7 days a week from 11:00 am to 10:00 pm, with Brunch starting at 10:00 am on Sundays.
• The World Famous – Located in the Hot Corner of downtown, this funky place offers great burgers and beers. The homemade Marinara sauce is delicious too! It’s open from 11:00 am to 2:00 am Monday-Saturday, and till 12:00 am on Sundays.

If your goal is to try all of the restaurants Athens has to offer, then you need to download our Food Scavenger Hunt for the Classic City.

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I know, I know, your child is in Athens to attend college, but there is always something that he or she will need particularly at the start of the semester. It’s a good idea to order some things online and then have them ready to pick up when you need them. Lots of retail stores do this now, and will even bring your items out to your car for you. Target, Walmart, and Bed, Bath & Beyond can be extremely time-saving with these services. I’m going to break down the “where to shop” problem by suggesting places and areas near/around the University of Georgia or the bet retail therapy.

Downtown – With over 65 specialty retailers, this is where you will find fun boutiques and retailers selling all things UGA, vintage, and specialty. There are a couple of chain retailers like Urban Outfitters and American Threads, but some favorite stops are The Red Dress Boutique, Cheeky Peach, Fringe, Duke’s, and Indigo Child. Dynamite is a vintage store that students go to when looking for themed outfits for Greek life socials and date nights. For UGA gear, try The Red Zone, The Clubhouse, and Tailgate-Athens. Target is currently looking into opening a smaller-scale store here as well.

Epps Bridge Center – About a 12-minute drive from UGA, the Epps Bridge center is full of major retailers from Bed, Bath & Beyond to Dick’s Sporting Goods. In case you are unfamiliar, Bed, Bath & Beyond is a large store carrying almost every item imaginable for a bedroom, bathroom, and kitchen. They literally cater to college kids with dorm essentials and UGA gear. You can also register for special college discounts, coupons, and sale events through their website.  Best Buy is here too and is your one-stop-shop for all things electronic, phone-related, gaming, and computers. They also have their Geek Squad which helps with computer and electronic repairs. You can order items online and pick up in the store, and they also offer College Student Deals on their site. Walmart has one of its Supercenters here. Known for selling everything that you can imagine, this 24-hour store is the place to pick up almost anything. It can get crowded during the move in weeks, so be prepared. At Epps Bridge, you can also find Marshalls, Old Navy, Ulta, and many more popular shops.

Athens Marketplace – Near the Epps Bridge Center is the Athens Marketplace where you will find Target. Known by everyone I know as their “favorite place to shop”, you name it, Target has it. They have college room essentials, cleaning, and school supplies, toiletries and more. This Target does offer an optical store and groceries. You can also order things online and pick them up at the store. Office Depot is in the Marketplace, and they will offer special discounts for college kids throughout the year. JOANN Fabrics & Crafts, Discount Tire, and Starbucks are a few other stores found there. You will also find a Walmart Supercenter here complete with an Auto Care Center.

Georgia Square Mall – This traditional mall is grounded by Belk and JCPenney. Like a lot of malls, stores have come and gone, but if you are looking for a Foot Locker, Sephora (inside of JCPenney), Victoria’s Secret, or a Journeys, then you will find them here. Other than this mall, the best one is the Mall of Georgia which is about an hour from campus.

If you’re moving your Dawg in the Fall, expect lots of crowds and traffic. Everyone seems to hit the big retail stores at the same time, so be patient. Again, it’s another great reason to pre-order items.

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Your child has been accepted to the University of Georgia! Congrats! The first thing you need to do is to sign up for Orientation. Your student is required to attend a two-day session, and parents have the option to attend if desired. The earlier sessions, the better. These days will be filled with taking notes, filling out paperwork, and getting yourselves familiar with all things UGA.

Orientation can be an overwhelming event because lots of information is being thrown at you in a short amount of time. So, remember to breathe. Don’t panic about remembering every important phone number, code, and piece of advice that the school gives you as I did. It will all be on their website if you need them. I did make notes and highlighted things that I specifically wanted to go over with my child in detail (like healthcare, tutoring, safety…) It’s also a good idea to download the Welcome to UGA app (Apple and Google version) where you will find the slides and can download and print them once you get home. That way you won’t have to worry about missing anything and you can go back to refresh what you heard at a later date.

Important!

Prior to Orientation, there are many things that must be done, so be sure to download the checklist. Missing any of these could prevent you from registering for classes. Some of these things can take time, like gathering transcripts from your high school, taking required placement tests, completing part 1 of the AlcoholEdu and Haven, and completing all health forms. Orientation starts promptly at noon on day 1 and ends at 5:00 pm on the second day.

Both you and your student have the option of staying in on-campus housing during Orientation. You must check-in from 10 am – 11:45 am at Creswell Hall as to not miss the start promptly at 12:00 pm on the first day of the sessions. There is a slight cost for this option, but you must bring some of your own items from home. Click here to see what you will need and how much it will cost. The most convenient lodging option for parents is to stay at the UGA Hotel and Conference Center, or any of the local hotels. Check out our blog on Hotels in the area here.

Orientation starts at 12:00 pm on day one, with check-in at the Tate Student Center, but there are mini a la carte options to participate in as well. There will be a resource fair, opportunities to learn more about University Housing and Financial Aid starting at 10:00 am, so plan on getting to campus early.

The most important part of the Orientation is registering for classes. Your student will meet with an Advisor either one-on-one or in a small group. Click here for some tips from the academic advisors to help you be prepared for your session. It can be overwhelming, so remind your students not to worry if they don’t get that ideal schedule. They can utilize drop/add during the first week of classes of the semester. I think it’s also good to remember that whatever they end up with does not necessarily have to determine what they study for the next four years.

UGA asks that all parents and students participating in Orientation take part in their Dawgs or a Cause program. This program helps to bring books to children in the Athens-Clarke County community. Books to be donated can be dropped off at the ticket booth in the Tate Student Center.

Other Suggestions

If you have already found your roommate, try to plan on attending the same orientation session. This way you can also stay in the dorm together and get to know each other better. My niece did this, and it worked out great, knowing who you were going to live with before move-in day.

Meal Plan – I suggest you read our blog on meal plans to get some ideas of choices. You can also register for the plan of your choice at orientation.

Banking – UGA’s banking provider is the Georgia United Credit Union. A checking account is free for students and offers many ways to show off your Bulldog pride. We personally chose to keep our daughter’s account at our home bank. It was simply easier since our accounts are linked. For out of state students, it is smart to check out opening a Georgia account.

Make your hotel reservations early. Rooms will fill fast. Head over to our hotels and restaurants blog for suggestions.

Wear comfortable clothes and shoes. You will do a lot of walking and it can be hot in Athens. But, bring a light jacket as some rooms will be cold.

And of course, head over to the campus bookstore or an area store and start stocking up on Bulldogs apparel. Go Dawgs!

Click here for all things related to UGA Orientation.

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Looking forward to mother-daughter time? It is my favorite thing ever when my mom comes to Athens, we are extremely close, and phone calls just don’t seem to ever satisfy like hugs and in-person conversations. We get to talk and hang out and it just recharges my battery in the best way. My mom coming to town usually means a meal, a Target run, and some other sort of activity if we have time. She always lets me pick where we go to eat and we have made a game of not trying to go to the same place twice.

Since Athens has over 150 different restaurants, this is super easy to stick to, and we rarely have a bad meal.  Check out our It’s Dinner Time in Athens blog for some great restaurant recommendations. A trip to Target or Walmart is usually on our to-do list so that she can pay for a stock up on snacks, school supplies, shower supplies, etc. Our activities usually change each time depending on what time of day and how much time we have, but we always try to do something that allows up to talk and catch up, rather than something where talking is at a minimum (like a movie or a concert).

One of our favorite things to do together is getting our nails done. This allows us to relax and chat, we love it. Another favorite of ours is massages and facials; we do these less often due to cost, but every once in awhile, they are amazing. We have provided a list of best nail salons, massages, and facials in our Beauty & the Beast blog. Another thing we love to do is go shopping; we usually do this when I have a sorority function or gameday or I am shopping for something in particular, but sometimes we just do it for fun. The shops in Athens have so many options, I rarely walk away empty-handed. For a list of places to shop in Athens, check out our Retail Therapy blog.

If it is a pretty day, we love walking around campus or the botanical gardens together, usually with a coffee in hand, and just chatting. My mom is a UGA Alumna, so she loves seeing the campus and telling me stories from her college days as well as hearing stories from mine. Another favorite of ours for the winter months is attending a Georgia gymnastics meet. We have been going to these since I was very little, and that tradition has continued since I became a student at UGA. Tickets to these are usually no more than $15-$20 and you get to watch girls flip and dance while also having the ability to chat. We usually grab dinner before, dessert after, or sometimes both.

Some options that I have heard are so fun but have not done personally are:

ARTini’s Art Lounge –  ARTini’s is one of those places where you follow a step by step instruction and paint a pretty picture. It is usually in a class setting, but you can still chat and catch up while painting.

Terrapin Brewery – you can take tours, taste test, and listen to live music. This is the perfect evening for our 21+ population and is highly recommended by many.

Silent Disco at High Wire – It does not start until 11 pm, so you have to be prepared to stay out late, but all of my friends who have done it have loved doing it with their moms and making memories dancing together.

I love having my mom in Athens and I know she loves coming to Athens, so if you have a daughter, make sure to plan a few dates a semester for both of you to spend time together. I promise you will not regret it and you will cherish that time together forever.

Madeleine Morris, UGA Intern

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Like any college town where many residents carry a yearly fun pass, there are literally hundreds of dining options from fast food to fast-casual, from family-style to fine dining. The more time my daughter spends up there, the more places to eat we have discovered. You will find a restaurant for every palate and every price point. So wakey-wakey get ready for breakfast!

Depending on whether you are touring with a prospective student or visiting your student in Athens, who will undoubtedly be clamoring for a good meal, the options are plentiful. Some things to consider beforehand are price and time. It is not unusual for there to be a considerable wait, even with a reservation, on a game weekend or graduation, at some of the more popular ‘wakey’ selections.

Athens Bagel Company – This downtown bagel place is amazing and is super convenient to campus. They do breakfast and lunch bagels as well as a “construct your own” option. They are truly amazing bagels.

Cafe Racer – This place is known for its breakfast biscuits, potato donuts, drips, and espressos that are sure to have you wanting seconds or maybe thirds. Although this place is a little bit far from campus, believe me, it is worth the drive.

Em’s Kitchen at Hawthorne Drugs – This place is one of Athens’ best-kept secrets, they are located in the middle of a local drug store and offer a big-time local feel. The biscuits, breakfast plates, and omelets are all to die for and will quickly become one of your favorites.

Ideal Bagel Co – This “hole in the wall” establishment houses some of the best bagels Athens has to offer. You can usually find the line out the door as students are grabbing a bagel to go on the way to campus.

Independent Baking Co – This place is tucked away in 5 points but offers in house-baked bread, croissants, morning rolls, and sweet treats. A truly divine place to grab a quick bite or a yummy specialty coffee.

The Farmcart – These are some of the best biscuits Athens has to offer. They offer about 10 different biscuit sandwiches daily, as well as a few other breakfast plate options, and an abundance of coffees, teas, and boozy drinks.

Zombie Coffee & Donuts – If you are looking for a 500+ calorie donut that tastes like dessert and locally roasted coffee, this place has got you covered. They are made in house, always fresh donuts are sure to have your mouth watering the moment you step inside the place. I 100% believe that everyone who visits Athens should try these donuts.

If brunch is more your style, check out our recommendations here. And if your goal is to try all of the restaurants Athens has to offer, then you need to download our Food Scavenger Hunt for the Classic City.

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