Where to Stay in Athens, GA

Looking for where to stay in Athens, GA for a Dawgs game? This guide covers the best areas to stay, hotels within walking distance of downtown and the UGA campus, and the booking and parking tips that matter most on game weekends. Rates, parking fees and policies change often, so check before you book.

Book early. Big football weekends in Athens sell out months ahead, and prices climb as the game gets closer. If you know your date, reserve a cancellable room now.

Best Areas to Stay

• Downtown: the easiest choice for a game weekend. You can walk to restaurants, bars, the Arch and Sanford Stadium, and leave the car parked all weekend.
• On campus: the UGA Hotel at the Georgia Center puts you right on campus near Stegeman Coliseum and Myers Quad.
• West Broad and Eastside: often cheaper, but plan on driving, a rideshare or a long walk on game day.
• Nearby towns: Watkinsville and other nearby towns can have rooms when Athens is full. Leave extra time for game-day traffic.

Hotels Near Downtown and Campus

These hotels are in or next to downtown Athens. Addresses are from each hotel or the Athens Area Chamber of Commerce.

• Hotel Indigo Athens Downtown (500 College Ave): an upscale downtown hotel with a restaurant and courtyard. On-site parking is available for a fee.
• Hyatt Place Athens / Downtown (412 N Thomas St): next to the Classic Center, with free breakfast and a rooftop bar.
• Courtyard by Marriott Athens Downtown (390 E Washington St): across from the Classic Center, a short walk to bars and restaurants.
• Hotel Abacus (295 E Dougherty St): the former Graduate Athens, with an outdoor pool, quirky Dawgs-themed decor and The Foundry for live music.
• Homewood Suites by Hilton Athens Downtown (750 E Broad St): suites with kitchens, good for families and groups.
• SpringHill Suites by Marriott Athens Downtown (220 S Hull St): close to the south side of downtown and campus.
• Holiday Inn Express Athens-University Area (513 W Broad St): on-site parking and a short walk to downtown.
• UGA Hotel at the Georgia Center (1197 S Lumpkin St, entrance on Carlton St): UGA’s own hotel, right on campus.

Game-Weekend Booking Tips

• Read the minimum-stay rule. Many hotels require two nights on big football weekends.
• Check the cancellation policy before you pay, especially for prepaid rates.
• Book directly with the hotel when you can, so changes are easier.
• Compare a vacation rental only if it is walkable or has parking you can confirm.
• Traveling with a group? Suites at Homewood Suites or rental condos can split the cost.

Parking and Getting Around

Ask whether parking is included and what it costs on game days. Many downtown hotels charge a nightly fee. Once you park, walk: most of downtown and campus is close together. The College Avenue and West Washington Street parking decks serve downtown, but they fill fast on game days. Expect road closures near campus and arrive early. For game-day details, see georgiadogs.com and our Athens Tailgating Guide.

Plan the Rest of Your Weekend

• Where to eat in downtown Athens on game day
• Best bars to watch the Dawgs
• Things to do in Athens
• Shop Dawgs gear

More for your trip: Athens, GA City Guide • Dawgs Sports schedule • Next home game: Georgia vs Missouri • All Game Weekend Guides • Athens Events

Independent fan site, not affiliated with the University of Georgia. Details change, so check before you go.