Nestled just below the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the vibrant college town of Athens, Georgia is the northern gateway to the Antebellum Trail.  The National Trust for Historic Preservation has selected Athens as a 2009 Distinctive Destination in recognition of the authentic visitor experience provided by its dynamic downtown, cultural diversity, attractive architecture, and strong commitment to historic preservation and revitalization.  Guided and self-guided tours of 16 historic districts and four house museums provide a glimpse into the past of numerous Confederate leaders.   Athens’ restored, Victorian-era downtown historic district remains as vital as ever, housing an eclectic mix of restaurants, retail shops, local art, living space, and the world-renowned music clubs that gave birth to R.E.M., the B-52’s, and hundreds of other bands.  Special events during the Antebellum Trail Pilgrimage include the 30^th Annual Athens Twilight Cycling Criterium (April 24-25), spring Home (TBA) & Garden (April 18) tours, the 31^st Annual Human Rights Festival (May 2-3), and the Nationwide Golf Tour’s Athens Regional Foundation Classic (April 13-19).