The Athens-Clarke Heritage Foundation seeks to become the leading advocate for the importance of historic preservation to the future of the Athens community. Located at the corner of Thomas and Dougherty Streets in historic downtown, the Foundation's visitor center is in Athens's oldest surviving residence, the Church-Waddel-Brumby House. The Foundation also operates the Ware-Lyndon House, built around 1850 by the first Mayor of Athens—physician and businessman, Edward R. Ware. Today, this two-story brick house represents a blend of the Greek Revival and Italianate styles. The first floor of the home features one of the finest American furniture and decorative arts collections of the Victorian period in Georgia. The house portrays the periods (1850–1890) within which the Ware and Lyndon families resided. A room in the house showcases museum quality memorabilia comprising many of the highlights of Athens history.

The foundation offers driving tours; the Ware-Lyndon House offers tours.