Shake Shack to Open First Athens, GA Location Near UGA

The popular fast food chain's new restaurant will be one of its only Georgia locations with a drive-thru.

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

Shake Shack is officially opening its first restaurant in Athens, Georgia on March 4, 2026. The new location, situated at 161 Alps Rd., will be one of the chain's only Georgia restaurants to offer a drive-thru option in addition to in-restaurant dining and to-go service.

Why it matters

The arrival of Shake Shack in the college town of Athens, home to the University of Georgia, is a significant development for local residents and students who have long craved access to the popular burger and fries chain. The new drive-thru option will also provide added convenience for customers.

The details

The Athens Shake Shack will open on Wednesday, March 4, 2026 at 10:30 a.m. The restaurant will be open from 10:30 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. Sunday to Thursday and from 10:30 a.m. to 12:00 a.m. Friday and Saturday, offering guests both in-restaurant dining and to-go options.

  • The Athens Shake Shack will open on Wednesday, March 4, 2026 at 10:30 a.m.

The players

Shake Shack

A popular fast food chain known for its burgers, fries, and shakes.

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The takeaway

The opening of Shake Shack's first Athens location, which will include a drive-thru, marks an exciting development for the college town and will provide a new dining option for both residents and University of Georgia students.