Athens, Georgia, often referred to as the "Classic City," is a vibrant college town nestled in the northeastern part of the state, about 70 miles from downtown Atlanta. Renowned as the home of the University of Georgia, this city is a hub of creative energy and culture, brimming with a robust visual and performing arts scene. Athens, named after the epicenter of classical culture in Greece, was described by naturalist John Muir in 1867 as a "remarkably beautiful and aristocratic town" marked by signs of culture and refinement. The city lies on the Oconee River and is the fourth-largest in Georgia. It's not just known for its academic prowess but also for its sports enthusiasm, particularly for the University of Georgia's football team, the Georgia Bulldogs.