The Hidden Attraction in Georgia That People Still Seek Out to This Day

Few cities are as rich in hidden treasures in Georgia as Athens — especially when it comes to music. The college town known for its university and college football team is equally notable for its shockingly prolific music scene. Bands such as The B-52s, Of Montreal, and most notably R.E.M. hail from this small North Georgia city, but only R.E.M. can truly be traced throughout the city with landmarks. Some of these places have become a pilgrimage for music fans, but few are as sacred as the steeple of St. Mary's Episcopal Church, which people still seek out to this day. 

The Story Behind This Hidden Icon

While many people are familiar with Weaver D's Delicious Fine Foods, which made an appearance in its tagline phrase, "Automatic For The People," on R.E.M.'s namesake album, the railroad trestle from the "Murmur" album artwork is another popular stop. But these two are easily found — especially now that the railroad trestle appears along the Firefly rail to trail being developed around Athens. 

The steeple, however, is another must-visit hidden attraction. This unique place in Georgia is frequently visited by fans because it is all that remains of St. Mary's Episcopal Church, which was the venue for the burgeoning band's very first show in April of 1980. Although the church itself no longer stands, the steeple is the last remnant and one that fans fiercely guard. 

Why People Still Visit Today

While visiting a standalone steeple might seem like an unusual attraction in Georgia, it's one that signifies a specific time to many people. Whether it's a symbol reminiscent of their own days in 1990s Athens, or simply a last, physical representation of the band's legendary run and meteoric rise, the St. Mary's Episcopal Church steeple is the last remnant of the band's beginnings. It holds a sense of nostalgia for the old-school version of this popular town and the community that lives here. And although the city has changed over recent years, the R.E.M. steeple and Nuci's Space next door are ready reminders that Athens' core values are still woven into the fabric of this town. 

What to Know Before You Go

To visit the R.E.M. steeple, among other legends in Georgia, head to Nuci's Space or park at the Steeplechase apartment complex next door. From here, you can observe the steeple at any time of day, though no one can enter the steeple.

To make the most of your visit, plan to stop in Nuci's Space for coffee and make a donation if you can. Not only did Nuci's Space save, refurbish, and continue to care for the steeple, but it's also a resource center and hub for musicians who need access to mental illness healthcare. Needless to say, supporting this organization with a donation or purchase is well worth the time and effort.

So, for a unique and intriguing afternoon in Athens, Georgia, follow in the footsteps of one of the city's best-known bands with a visit to pay homage to their first concert. Capped off with a dynamic afternoon of exploring the city's other R.E.M. destinations and cultural sights, there are few places more symbolic of Athens and its lasting music history.