10 essential experiences at Ohio University
Ranging from captivating cinematic experiences at Athena Cinema uptown to exploring the exquisite Hocking Hills State Park, Ohio University and the surrounding areas have a lot to offer to students and visitors alike.
Here is a list of ten things to do to ensure you experience the best Ohio University and the surrounding areas have to offer.
1. Explore and enjoy all the brick paved roads and sidewalks Athens has to offer.
The bricks are a staple of the town and the university that can't be overlooked. P.S. - You need to leave with an authentic Athens brick. It's tradition.
2. Watch an independent film at Athena Cinema.
As one of the oldest movie theaters in the nation, Athena is sure to please. Home to the Athens International Film and Video Festival, Athena Cinema presents some of the most captivating independent films from around the world.
3. Explore Hocking Hills State Park.
The park features fishing, hunting and picnicking, but, best of all, the parks features some of the largest and most beautiful waterfalls in the state including: Upper and Lower Falls, Ash Cave falls and Cedar Falls.
4. Eat at one of many unique restaurants in uptown Athens.
From the Mexican inspired dishes as Casa Nueva and the unique pastries at Fluff Bakery to the local brews and food at Jackie O's, uptown Athens is sure to deliver.
5. Experience the history of The Ridges and The Kennedy Art Museum.
Once an insane asylum, the ambiance and exterior decor of The Ridges alone is sure to raise the hair on the back of your neck. Part of the The Ridges which has been renovated has made way for The Kennedy Museum of Art, featuring important southwest Native American textiles and jewelry and a renowned contemporary print collection.
6. Dress up and attend OU Halloween.
Kickstarting with a large, hand-made puppet parade made from visiting artists and ending with a night of exotic costumes, alcohol consumption and stage performances, the halloween tradition is sure to please.
7. Buy local produce from the Athens Farmers Market.
As one of the largest in the state, the crowds are often large and the variety is simply alluring. The market works to make locally grown and sustainably produced food and craft available for the good of all.
8. Attend International Street Fair on Court Street uptown.
The fair features food, activities and performances from around the world. Any university organization or non-profit can come and participate, helping make the event culturally unique and diverse.
9. Stand up and cheer with The Marching 110.
With their exciting dance moves and their impeccable drum breaks, no wonder they are commonly referred to as "the most exciting band in the land." The Marching 110 has consistently been rated as one of the best college marching bands in the country.
10. Walk, run, rollerblade, bike, etc. on the bike path.
Running alongside the Hocking River and the outskirts of campus, the bike path offers beautiful views of campus and the surrounding Athens community.
This story originally appeared on the Paste BN College blog, a news source produced for college students by student journalists. The blog closed in September of 2017.