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Named after the Greek capital, Athens, Ohio, drew inspiration from its ancient namesake from the get-go. Founded in 1805 along the Hocking River in Appalachian Ohio, it (like its European namesake) became an important center of culture and learning, rapidly earning a reputation not just as the top college town in its home state, but as one of the best in the Midwest.

Now home to close to 25,000 residents, Athens grew quickly during an era of extraordinary expansion and optimism in America. Although the region was initially considered remote, settlers soon recognized its potential for agriculture and commerce, triggering a rapid growth that cemented its pivotal role in Ohio鈥檚 early development.

One of the state鈥檚 earliest universities, Ohio University, was established here in the early 19th century, setting in motion the building of a reputation for academic excellence. Over time, factories and small businesses flourished, local leaders supported civic projects, and Athens gained a lasting identity as an intellectual and cultural destination. And it鈥檚 a legacy that remains evident today in the way students, faculty, and residents interact and continue to shape Ohio鈥檚 best college town.

Ohio University: A Historic Institution

Often referred to simply as 鈥淥HIO,鈥� Ohio University holds a special place in the history of American higher education. Chartered in 1787 and officially founded in 1804, it was the first public university in the state and one of the first in the country. Manasseh Cutler and Rufus Putnam, key figures in the movement to settle what was originally known as the Northwest Territory, were instrumental in securing the original land grants, ultimately choosing Athens for its strategic centrality.

At a time when colleges were few and far between, the founding of Ohio University was certainly big news and set the stage for advanced learning across the Midwest. While the university鈥檚 early years were modest (only three students attended the first day of class in 1809), Ohio University now enrolls around 28,000 students across its six campuses each year, with more than 20,000 of them attending the Athens campus.

Academically, Ohio University is known for strong programs in journalism, business, communications, and engineering, ensuring solid rankings among the country鈥檚 most well-regarded public institutions. Lauded for both its research and teaching, some of its best-known alumni include comedian and talk show host Arsenio Hall, actress Piper Perabo, and Nancy Cartwright, the voice of none other than Bart Simpson.

Community Connections: OHIO鈥檚 Continued Influence

From its earliest days, Ohio University has been a catalyst for cultural, economic, and social development in Athens. As the 19th century progressed, the steady increase in student enrollment brought new ideas and a demand for goods and services, something that continues to this day with students contributing to Athens鈥檚 economy through housing, groceries, entertainment, and more. In fact, recent studies reveal that the university and its faculty and students contribute nearly $3 billion to the state's economy, in the process supporting a whopping 40,021 jobs.

The university also continues to add to the community鈥檚 cultural fabric. Athletic events, especially football games on campus at Peden Stadium, bring alumni and fans together in spirited gatherings that fill the town鈥檚 streets and restaurants. Concerts and theatrical performances attract diverse audiences, too, often featuring talent from the university鈥檚 well-regarded fine arts and music programs. Also, traditions like the Athens Ohio Halloween Block Party connects 鈥渢own and gown鈥� in a shared celebration that has become a signature event for the entire community.

Campus landmarks also reflect the strong link between university and town, with places like College Green serving as a communal gathering space that鈥檚 just a short walk from downtown Athens. Student organizations also host philanthropic activities that benefit local charities, while faculty research ties Athens to 麻豆AVwide academic networks, fostering a forward-thinking attitude that encourages technological innovation and community engagement.

Exploring OHIO Campus Highlights

Visitors to Athens will find plenty to see and experience within Ohio University鈥檚 grounds, with a walk through the 10 acres of College Green being a must-do. Created in 1804, this lovely green space is surrounded by several impressive Colonial Revival and Federal-style buildings, including the red-brick Manasseh Cutler Hall, opened in 1819 and is the oldest academic structure on campus.

Nearby, the Templeton-Blackburn Alumni Memorial Auditorium regularly hosts cultural events and live performances by talented students as well as professional acts. Just across the Hocking River, the Kennedy Museum of Art occupies the former Athens Lunatic Asylum and features exhibits focusing on regional art and history with galleries featuring works that explore the intersections of art, culture, and community.

Sports fans will want to catch a game at Peden Stadium, home of the Ohio Bobcats football team, which dates back to 1929. The Convocation Center, known to students and locals as 鈥淭he Convo,鈥� hosts regular basketball games and other large events including concerts and commencement ceremonies.

Things To Do In and Around Athens

Known affectionately as 鈥�Harvard on the Hocking鈥� thanks to its top-notch university and its charming riverside setting, Athens is a lovely city to explore beyond campus, too. Just a short stroll from the OHIO campus, Athens Downtown Historic District is home to a number of the town鈥檚 earliest and most significant attractions, including the Southeast Ohio History Center with its displays relating to local people and events (guided tours are available).

The Athens art scene is also worth checking out, with galleries such as Trisolini Gallery featuring regional painters, sculptors, and photographers. The Athens Farmers Market is also fun. Held on Saturdays adjacent to the Athens Community Center, it鈥檚 a lively place to shop for local produce, baked goods, and crafts. You can even get to the market via the Hockhocking Adena Bikeway, a 24-mile multi-use trail that meanders along the Hocking River that extends from Athens all the way to Nelsonville. For a more rugged adventure, Strouds Run State Park is close by and offers hiking trails, a lake for boating or swimming, and campsites.

If you prefer a weekend getaway in town, there are several hotels along East State Street that offer easy access to both College Green and downtown. The Ohio University Inn & Conference Center, located on Richland Avenue, is one of the best and is within walking distance of campus. As for dining, options range from casual diners to more eclectic fare with some of the best located on Court Street, the main thoroughfare just north of College Green. Popular choices here include North End Kitchen and Bar and Mr. Hibachi Japanese Grill and Sushi.

The Bottom Line

There鈥檚 no doubt Athens owes its identity to Ohio University. The institution鈥檚 founding set in motion a symbiotic relationship in which the town and campus developed together, enriching each other economically, culturally, and socially. As a result, Athens is now recognized as one of the finest college towns in the Midwest (and the best in Ohio) for its academic excellence, its deeply rooted sense of community, and its endless opportunities for fun and exploration.