ABOUT

The Classic Center
Downtown Athens, GA

The Classic Center is northeast Georgia's premier award-winning convention center and performing arts theatre. Located in the heart of downtown Athens, Georgia, The Classic Center provides unique meeting space, outstanding special event services, and a wide range of entertainment options, making this unconventional convention center the choice for conferences, meetings, and special events!

The Classic Center is under the auspices of The Classic Center Authority (CCA), a political subdivision of the state government, created on March 10, 1988, as enacted by the General Assembly of the State of Georgia. The Athens-Clarke County Commission appoints the 5-member CCA board of directors.

The Classic Center has been under the leadership of Executive Director Paul Cramer since it opened in 1995. Considered the crown jewel of downtown Athens, The Classic Center's motto is "Be Impressed," and guests most certainly are. Nearly 365,000 people attend more than 650 convention center and theatre events yearly.

The Classic Center underwent a visual identity redesign in 2023, unveiling a new logo inspired by the stainless-steel structure, "The Nest" by artist Maureen Kelly, hanging in the Atrium.

Ice Skating 2

MISSION

The Classic Center Authority shall enhance the quality of life in Athens-Clarke County by serving as the cultural, civic, and social center of the Southeast and by generating maximum economic impact.  


BRAND STATEMENT

The Classic Center provides unparalleled service and exceptional experiences that leave our guests feeling impressed, all while bolstering the economic, entertainment, and cultural well-being of Athens through workforce development and artistic stewardship.  

An Award-Winning Facility

2022 Convention South's Reader Choice Awards
2021 GBAC Star Facility
Stella 2020 Winner Badge
2022 Best of the Best Logo