Athens Attractions
Plan Your East Texas Getaway
When you need a getaway – let Athens, TX, be your home base for a retreat to remember.
You feel it in your bones. Routines are getting old, and drudgery is taking hold. You want to break free, to reclaim who you are and what you care about. You want to push the to-do list away and live a little.
It’s time. Time for a perspective change. A refresh. An adventure.
You’ve got to go somewhere.
But the escape you’re looking for may not need to be as distant or exotic as you thought. Bypass the concrete overpasses and pricey plane tickets. Discover some East Texas gems with us. See the good it does your soul.
Relax. Explore. Bond. Enjoy.
Come stay with us.
If we were you, these are the top Athens area getaway tips we’d hope to hear about – from locals who know.
First, where can you wine down?
You’ve got spectacular options here. Kick-start that relaxation you’re craving. You can’t go wrong with any of these wineries.
3 Ps in a Vine
Check out this family-run winery right here in Athens. You can sit by the fire inside this cozy log house or gaze at the vineyard with the breeze tussling your hair. They even host a monthly BYOM (Bring Your Own Meat) night, when you can use their grills and enjoy delicious sides – all you pay for is the wine.
Castle Oaks Winery
Looking for a little royal treatment on your weekend escape? Athens has a castle – well, Castle Oaks Winery. They serve more wines than we can count, and they love treating guests like long-time friends. You can enjoy brick-fired pizza on Friday night or tapas on Saturday afternoon.
White Fox Vineyards
A short drive from Athens into the beautiful East Texas countryside, you can relax at White Fox Vineyards. The wine garden overlooking the vineyard is a great place to enjoy the moment. Check their website or social media for live music. They’re currently open on Saturday afternoons and by appointment on Fridays.
What fun can you get into downtown?
Try some unique entertainment on the historic Athens square.
The Texan Venue
Nostalgia meets modern day in this lively venue. The Texan was a hopping movie theater for decades after it opened in the 50s. Now it’s been restored, and it hosts music events and more. If you’re up for a little rhythm, maybe a twirl with your favorite dance partner, grab some tickets. Check their event lineup to see what’s happening during your trip.
Freelancers Cafe
Get this – at Freelancers Cafe on the square, you can have your coffee made by a robot. We’re so serious. We don’t think they’re actually conducting time travel or having interdimensional parties, but… we can’t say for sure. And gamers, you will find your people here at this internet cafe – well, people and a robot. We kind of can’t get over that. Check their website for current eSports events.
Where can you shop?
You can treat yourself to several boutiques and specialty stores in town. But we’d love to tell you about our favorite places to pick up wholesome goods – with an experience you can’t get elsewhere.
Athens Farmers Market
If you’re around on a Saturday, why don’t you meander through the Athens Farmers Market? You’ll find a big collection of small vendors. And you can definitely leave with a haul of fresh goodness. Hit the food trucks for snacking. Then browse the booths and booths of canned and baked goods, artwork, fruits and vegetables, and more. You won’t find these treats at the grocery store (for sure not grown with this much heart). It’s unique and wholesome. Good for the soul.
The Picket Fence
You might want something unique to take home, to remind yourself that this escape wasn’t just a dream. Head to The Picket Fence in Canton, TX, and bring a memorable treasure back with you. Browse their handcrafted and locally sourced selection. Specialty gifts, delicious snacks, decor, apparel, and more, all in a nostalgic shop. We can’t get enough of the local jams and jellies, but we always leave with more surprising goodies. Take a trip through time. Find something unexpected.
What outdoor adventures are here?
East Texas is blessed with beautiful scenery. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or looking to explore nature a little more calmly, Athens, TX has your outdoor escape.
New York, Texas Zipline Adventures
How about something exhilarating – an experience that gets your heart pumping? The stunning New York, Texas Zipline treetops can’t fail to thrill. If you want an adventure, these sky-high wires are for you. Soar as free and daring as the birds. Guaranteed to take your mind off of the to-do list you left behind. Frankly, you think about life a little differently when you’re flying above the trees.
Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center
Or perhaps you want a calmer, wetter nature adventure? Stay tuned on this one, because they’re closed for improvements as of this conversation. But when they reopen, you’ve got to check this out. The Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center is a working fish hatchery with aquarium exhibits, dive shows, tram rides, fishing ponds, trails, and more. It’s not every day you can see what our beautiful state’s lakes and streams look like – from the inside!
How can you celebrate a great trip?
Of course, when you’re ready, there will be a cupcake waiting for you here at Treehouse. Lick the frosting from around your smile, and tell us what a wonderful trip you’ve had. We can’t wait to hear how your Athens, TX getaway did good for your soul. Yes, you can tell us with your mouth full.
To stay up to date on all things Athens, connect with us on social media. Enjoy a small town with big life – and tasty bites! #itsanathensthing #treehousecupcakes
