Visiting Researchers / Scholars
Information for Visitors
The University of Georgia is located in Athens, Georgia, approximately 1.5 hours from Atlanta.
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL)
Located south of Atlanta, Hartsfield-Jackson is a major international airline hub, served by major national and international airlines.
Bulldog Limousine
Bulldog Limousine provides private town car and limousine service, as well as van service for larger groups. Door to door service from ATL to Athens. Reservations required.
Groome Transportation
Groome Transportation currently provides 18 round trips daily between Athens and ATL. The shuttle picks up at one location at Hartsfield-Jackson Airport. Drop off locations in Athens are at various hotels, including the Georgia Center, The University of Georgia’s Conference Center and Hotel. Reservations are required. See schedule and routes.
Southeastern Stages
Daily bus service between Atlanta Airport and Athens. See schedule and routes.
Transit
Athens Transit System
Athens has a city bus system that is free to ride for students, staff, faculty and scholars with a valid UGA ID card. See schedules and routes.
UGA Campus Transit
The Campus Transit System provides fare-free transportation services throughout the University campus, to limited off-campus locations and to downtown Athens, weekdays and weekends. Transportation services also are available for persons with disabilities.
Scholar Housing
The Office of Global Engagement has this webpage with housing options submitted by other UGA community members. Immigration Services will not match scholars to available housing options or be able to intervene in any housing issues that may arise. You will need to reach out to the UGA community member at the contact information they have provided to confirm availability and ask additional questions that may be relevant to you.
Georgia Center, The University of Georgia’s Conference Center and Hotel
The Georgia Center is on campus and minutes from downtown.
Holiday Inn Express
The Holiday Inn Express Hotel Athens is conveniently located just two blocks from the University of Georgia in downtown Athens.
Hilton Garden Inn
The Hilton Garden Inn is located two blocks from campus.
Graduate Athens
Graduate Athens offers deluxe hotel room accommodations, including many services and amenities.
Hotel Indigo
The hotel’s downtown location is within easy walking or biking distance to Athens attractions, the University of Georgia, and public transportation.
Health Service
It’s critical to have insurance before going to a health care provider. If not, any clinics or hospitals may charge full price. Often payment is due at the time of services. Therefore, all international scholars must be covered by adequate health insurance. You must carry health insurance for yourself and your family members for the full duration of your program.
The University Health Center
The Center provides various physical and mental health services to students and other eligible members of the University community.
St. Mary’s Health Care System
A private, non-profit, acute care network serving a multi-county area of northeast Georgia. In addition to hospital and long term care facilities, St. Mary’s provides home health care and hospice services, community wellness programs, and more.
Piedmont Medical Center
A health care facility serves 17 counties in the northeast Georgia area and offers an array of specialized medical, surgical & diagnostic procedures.
Other Hospitals and Clinics
You will find information on hospitals and clinics located in Athens.
Schools
If you are interested in having your children attend school while you are here, visit the Clarke County School District website for information on school registration for grades kindergarten to 12.
Childcare
University Childcare Center
University Childcare Center serves children of UGA faculty, staff and students as well as families of the Athens community. Children ages 6 weeks through 4 years are accepted. The facility is conveniently located in a newly renovated 12,000-square foot facility on UGA’s Health Sciences Campus. The center operates on the most stringent standards of national accrediting childcare associations with regard to child-to-teacher ratios, classroom sizes and teacher training.
Public and Private Childcare and Preschools
Quality Care for Children provides a searchable database of child care providers, afterschool programs, and summer camps.
Government
Athens-Clarke County Unified Government
Official website provides information on the mayor, the commission, ACC departments, the courts, budget documents, election results and more.
How Do I?: A Guide to Athens-Clarke County Services
A guide providing contact information and explanations for everything from Absentee Ballots to the Zoo.
Community Resources
Athens-Clarke County Guide
A comprehensive guide to living in Athens, compiled by UGA Libraries.
Athens Convention & Visitors Bureau
Information on short-term lodging, attractions, shopping, dining, and activities you may be interested in.
University of Georgia Visitor’s Guide
Information on the University of Georgia as well as dining, lodging, shopping, and recreational activities around the UGA campuses.