Everything in One Place—Athens, OH
Athens is your gateway to a whole bunch of excellent riding roads. No, not the Greek capital—we’re talking about Athens, OH.
This welcoming city sits on the Hocking River in southeastern Ohio, some 20 miles from the West Virginia border. Athens, named after the ancient Greek city, is perhaps best known as the home of Ohio University.
As a fun fact, though, the university predates the city it’s located in. Ohio University opened its doors to students in 1809, while Athens wasn’t incorporated until two years later.
Over the years, Athens has developed from a significant salt producer to an iron manufacturer and, finally, at the beginning of the 20th century, to a coal producer.
Today, Athens is a bustling college city, which translates to plenty of things to see and do. Students want their entertainment, after all, and that’s also great news to motorcyclists.
The main draw for riders is Athens’ proximity to Ohio’s Windy 9. This collection of exciting, looping motorcycle routes out of the city of Athens takes you into the surrounding Athens micropolitan area (that is, Athens County).
These roads are well worth getting on due to their sheer variety. You’ll find rolling hills, thick woods, peaceful farmland, and thrilling twisties, depending on which one you put your wheels on.
The ride on Ohio’s Windy 9 is only half the fun, though. Afterward, you get to explore the smorgasbord of sights and entertainment Athens and its surroundings offer.
One of the most fascinating places in Athens is the Ridges, formerly known as the Athens Lunatic Asylum and Athens State Hospital. Opened in 1847, the hospital was the town’s largest employer in the late 19th century.
The Athens Lunatic Asylum became notorious as a site for carrying out the infamous lobotomy surgeries. Today, its buildings host Ohio University facilities in addition to the Kennedy Museum of Art
To complete the local history tour, you can visit the Southeast Ohio History Center. Its various exhibits showcase life along the Hocking River throughout the ages.
For outdoors-oriented visitors, the Wayne National Forest north of the city offers opportunities for off-road riding, hiking, horseback riding, and more. There’s also the nearby Hocking Hills State Park, where you can find impressive natural rock formations.
The Ohio University campus is worth visiting if you find yourself in Athens. The university’s College Green, in particular, makes for a great summer stroll.
Music fans should be aware of Athens’ strong music scene. The city hosts multiple concerts and festivals throughout the year, so it’s worth checking local even listings before you visit.
And I haven’t yet even mentioned things like the Camp Wool Civil War Monument or the Dairy Barn Arts Center. That’s why you should point your front wheel to Athens, though—the city will entertain both in and out of the saddle.
Interested in traveling to Athens?
Facts & Info
Nearby Attractions
- Wayne National Forest
- The Ridges/Athens Lunatic Asylum
- Ohio University
- Southeast Ohio History Center
Nearby Roads
Athens will keep any rider busy for a long time, thanks to Ohio’s Windy 9 (that’s “windy” as in “winding”). These nine routes out of Athens cover nearly 800 miles of excellent pavement.
Each of the route’s offers something different, so you’ll find an enjoyable ride, no matter what you prefer. Just as an example, the Rim of the World route takes you to Wayne National Forest for a spectacular fall leaves tour.
The Lazy Rivers meanders along the Hocking River, allowing you to take in the historical riverside infrastructure and the fantastic little town of Pomeroy. Riders looking for a real challenge should hit the curves of the Triple Nickel, the most technical (and difficult) road in the region.
Recommended Lodging: Athens Central Hotel
Athens Central Hotel is—true to its name—located right in downtown Athens, giving you excellent access to both Ohio’s Windy 9 and all of the city’s attractions. Although the hotel is in the heart of Athens, you won’t have to worry about traffic noise, thanks to the soundproof rooms.
The rooms are large and feature very nice, modern furnishings (and a coffee maker). The hotel also offers plenty of other services to accommodate riders, such as luggage storage and laundry facilities for washing your gear.
Complimentary private off-street parking is available, as is EV charging in case you’re traveling on an electric motorcycle. The hotel provides breakfast options, but Athens’ great cafes and restaurants are also just a stone’s throw away.
Food & Dining
- O’Betty’s Red Hot: This local hot dog restaurant is legendary for a good reason. Not only are the dogs hot and delicious, but it also houses the O’Betty’s Hot Dog Museum, which is absolutely worth visiting. Find it at 15 W State St, Athens, Oh.
- Jackie O’s Public House: Jackie O’s is the place to sample Ohio’s local craft beers and ciders. In addition to drinks, they also serve burgers, pizza, and other classic pub grub. Find it at 22 W Union St, Athens, OH.
- Triple Nickel Diner: Triple Nickel Diner is some ways away from Athens, but you should pop over for lunch if you’re riding the Triple Nickel. It’s just part of the experience. Find it at 1060 High St, Chesterhill, OH.
Best Time to Travel
Athens, OH, makes for an excellent fall ride destination. Around September and October, the summertime storms and humidity are gone but the weather is still mild. You also get to enjoy the gorgeous fall leaves in the Wayne National Forest.
If you’d like to experience many of the local festivals and events, head to Athens between June and August. Just be aware that it can get hot and humid, and that there will be more tourists on the roads.