Discover the best things to do this spring in Athens, Alabama whether you’re local or planning to visit.
Warm weather, green trees, and blooming flowers have us all ready to get outside and enjoy the season. But with so much to see and do in Athens, it can be difficult to choose which activity to pick first.
Things to Do this Spring in Athens, Alabama
Fans of classic automobiles can start the season with this year’s annual Car & Bike Show. Get outside with the whole family with a stop by Isom’s Orchard or a walk along one of Athens’ many nature trails. Meet up with fellow athletes for a tennis match at Big Spring Memorial Park, sign up for a fishing tournament, or book a tee time at the Southern Gayles Golf Club.
So whether you’re a local or planning to visit the area, read on to learn more about our 10 favorite events and locations for you to check out this spring.
Athens Car & Bike Show on the Square
If you’ve been looking for the perfect opportunity to showcase your collection of classic cars, register today for the annual Car & Bike Show on the Square! This April 29 event is a great opportunity for participants to share their prized antiques with other car, truck, and bike aficionados.
Find motorcycles parked on Market Street, visit the corner of Washington and Jefferson for tractors, and stroll down Washington Street for Mustang Alley.
Local food and craft vendors will also be in attendance. Contact the Athens Visitors Center or follow @CarsAndBikesOnTheSquare on Facebook for more information on this year’s show.
Athens Saturday Market
Mark your calendars for June 3, and stop by the Athens Saturday Market. This state-certified market is open every Saturday from 8:00 to noon, June through September. Bring the whole family along, and explore a wide variety of local produce, artists, plants, crafts, live music, and more.
Isom’s Orchard
But if you can’t wait for June to get fresh fruit, stop by Isom’s Orchard. A family business in its fourth generation of growers, this fruit and vegetable farm is located on Highway 72 about 15 minutes from downtown Athens. With an ever-changing lineup of tasty produce – from strawberries in April to apples in November – visiting Isom’s Orchard will surely become a frequent stop for families all season long. Follow them on Facebook for up-to-date information on the fresh, seasonal fruits and veggies they have available throughout the year.
Summer Concert Series
Listen to local musical talent at the annual Singing on the Square Summer Concert Series. Running May through August, bring your favorite lawn chair and set up in front of the Limestone County Courthouse for an evening of live music. Stay tuned to find out which artists will kick off the 2023 concert series!
Limestone County Sheriff’s Rodeo
The 41st Annual Limestone Sheriff’s Rodeo, also known as the Greatest Show on Dirt East of the Mississippi, will be held on May 19 and 20. Events include bareback and saddle bronc riding, steer wrestling, barrel racing, break-away roping, and more. You won’t want to miss all the family-friendly events offered to rodeo fans of all ages.
Big Spring Memorial Park
Conveniently located to downtown Athens and affectionately known as “The Duck Pond,” Big Spring Memorial Park is the perfect weekend picnic spot. Beginning in April, pavilions can be rented for community events. Click here to make a reservation. Three tennis courts and a playground are also available for visitors to enjoy.
Athens Historic Walking Tours
Did you know the Athens area features many historical districts and trails? Get outside this spring – and learn about the incredible history of the Athens community – by taking a historic walking tour. With plenty of free tours exploring the Beaty, Houston, Athens State College, and Downtown historic districts, there’s a spot for historians of all ages. Find walking and driving brochures at the Athens-Limestone County Visitors Center, or click here to contact the Visitors Center and start planning your tour.
Athens-Limestone County Nature and Heritage Trails
Is hiking more your style? What about biking, canoeing, or kayaking? Take in beautiful scenery and some history, too, on one of the many nature trails located near Athens.
Take a driving tour to discover antebellum homes, churches, a college, a post office, and a stagecoach inn. Hikers, bikers, joggers, and even horseback riders will love the 10.3-mile Rails to Trails that winds past the site of the Battle of Sulphur Creek Trestle. A Native American Heritage Trail, Singing River Trail will soon connect Limestone, Madison, and Morgan Counties to become North Alabama’s longest greenway. The Athens Recreation Loop passes Swan Creek Park and offers a shorter walking route that’s great for families. Find more Athens area trails here.
Local Fishing Tournaments
Sign up for one of the many fishing tournaments happening this year throughout Limestone County. Whether you’re planning on catching catfish or bass or you’re located near the Elk River, Tennessee River, or Wheeler Lake Reservoir, there’s a competition for everyone. Kick off the season with one of the Heartland Anglers Bass Tournaments happening through June. Or support the City of Athens Relay for Life Team in their May bass fishing tournament. Reserve your spot and learn more about other tournament opportunities here.
Southern Gayles Golf Club
If you prefer spending your day on the golf course instead of the river, head over to Southern Gayles Golf Club. This public 18-hole course welcomes players of all skill levels. Plus, beginners looking to improve their game can take advantage of the club’s PGA professional instruction.
Book an early morning tee time for a cooler start to your game, or choose from another of the club’s many time slots offered throughout the day. Snacks are available to patrons now, but you can visit the Southern Gayles Grill for a full menu of appetizers, sandwiches, salads, and more.
