Athens, Ohio, may be subject to a Midwest climate that can’t always make up its mind, but that doesn’t stop us from getting outdoors year-round.  Living in Athens means you will inevitably be drawn outside – whether it’s just to enjoy the natural beauty of the region, browse the local farmers market, or get your fitness on.   Many community members will call these events just a typical Saturday, but we like to call it living well in Athens, Ohio.

Outdoor Enthusiasts Welcome

If you’re someone who lives for the outdoors, Athens gets close to checking all the boxes.  With four state parks within (about) a 30-minute drive, there’s no shortage of hiking, swimming, boating, fishing or camping opportunities. Our go-to local spot - Strouds Run State Park - is less than ten minutes from downtown Athens and offers easy access to outdoor adventure or a laid-back outing.  If you’re willing to drive a bit further, the nationally renowned Hocking Hills State Park is a can’t-miss display of Mother Nature at her finest (think:  caves, waterfalls, and gorgeous flowers and foliage).

Read up on all the amazing state parks near Athens, Ohio, by visiting ohiodnr.gov.

Bailey's Trail System

Embrace the Trail Life

Athens, Ohio, has become a premier destination for trail runners and bikers alike, thanks to the hundreds of miles of trails found throughout the region.  The Hockhocking Adena Bikeway, for example, runs more than 20 miles and connects Athens with neighboring town Nelsonville (bonus:  you’ll find a few celebrated local breweries right along this trail!).  The trails at The Ridges in Athens provide a look into the historic asylum grounds and offer stunning views via Radar Hill – one of the highest points in the county.  If traversing more adventurous terrain is your thing, the nearby Bailey’s Trail System offers more than 80 miles of trails for cyclists, hikers, runners, and general outdoor enthusiasts alike. 

Find your next trail adventure near Athens, Ohio, at alltrails.com or nps.gov.

Shop Local, Live Well

All this outdoor adventuring requires sustenance, right? You’ll find the freshest and most nourishing local options at one of Ohio’s top-ranked farmer’s market – right here in Athens.  On Saturdays and select Wednesdays throughout the year, the Athens Community Center hosts the region’s top food producers and artisans offering everything from fruit, veggies, meats and cheeses to honey, maple syrup, flowers and crafts.  For more than 50 years, the Athens Farmer’s Market has been a community mainstay that celebrates our neighbors and the (literal) fruits of their labor, all while embracing the true spirit of ‘shop local’. 

Learn more about the Athens Farmers Market (and start planning your shopping list) at athensfarmersmarket.org.

Athens Farmer's Market

Find Community Through Movement

Throughout the year in Athens, Ohio, you’ll find opportunities to get outside and be a part of something bigger with your friends and neighbors.  (What’s a trail if you can’t race, after all?)  Hit the pavement with fellow community members for the annual Race for a Reason or the Athens Marathon, or race through the rolling hills with some of our celebrated trail events like the Iron Furnace or Bailey’s Half Marathon.   Several running clubs also exist around Athens to help you meet your people and get prepared.  Not a runner?  The Athens Community Center has many alternative options for outdoor fun – including a community pool, a massive skate park and courts for basketball, tennis and pickleball.  

Visit these websites and get going:  SEOTR Events, Athens Arts Parks and Recreation.

Wellness for the Whole Family

An outdoor lifestyle becomes second nature (pun intended) for families in Athens. Whether you land in a coveted walkable neighborhood or prefer to stretch out on your own acreage, Athens offers families of all ages the chance to connect with one another, with their community and with their environment.  The simplicity of a family bike ride or a walk to the public library are some of the small everyday moments that become engrained as the Athens lifestyle.  Access to parks, youth sports programs, community gardens, summer camps and Ohio University events means unlimited opportunities to get outside year-round and enjoy our corner of Southeast Ohio, as a family. 

Peden Stadium at Ohio University

Check out some of our favorite areas of Athens, Ohio, here.

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Athens might lack the typical hustle and bustle of some of our awesome neighboring cities, but we have no problem staying active and living our best lives thanks to all the beauty around us.  Here, our pace of life prioritizes balance.  Nature is always within reach, and our surroundings provide a strong foundation for a happier, healthier life.  

Yeah, we like it here.