Elks Lodge 973 is a association or organization in Athens, OH. Phone: (740) 592-9977. Average rating is 4.4 stars from 26 reviews.
Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks emblemAthens, OH Elks Lodge #973
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A jacket for sale at Elks Lodge 973.
4.4 26 reviews

Brotherhood, Community, and Purpose in Athens

Elks Lodge 973 has served Athens, Ohio for generations through scholarships, veterans support, and public events.

Charity

Giving without expectation

Justice

Fairness for every person

Brotherly Love

Fellowship above all

Fidelity

Faithful to our word

About Us

On West Union Street in Athens, Lodge 973 has been quietly doing the kind of work that doesn't make headlines but absolutely shapes communities. Members fund college scholarships for local students, assemble care packages for those experiencing homelessness, and show up year after year for causes that matter to southeastern Ohio. A 4.4-star rating across 26 reviews reflects something real: people notice when an organization follows through.

The Lodge operates as a members-only club, but that doesn't mean the doors are closed to Athens. Throughout the year, Elks Lodge 973 opens its venue to the public for events, fundraisers, and community gatherings. Class reunions, civic meetings, and charity drives have all found a home here. If you've driven past the building on Union Street and wondered what goes on inside, the answer is: more than you'd expect.

What We Offer

Lodge 973 offers its members a private social club with meeting space, a full bar, and a calendar of events that keeps the community connected. The venue is also available for private parties and reunions, making it one of Athens's more affordable options for groups that need a real room with character.

Beyond the social side, the Lodge runs active charitable programs: college scholarships for local students, community donation drives, and support initiatives for veterans and those in need. Public events throughout the year give non-members a chance to participate in fundraisers and see the Lodge in action. There is also an on-site ATM available to members.

What Our Guests Say

Don't just take our word for it - hear it from our members & guests

Click to Rate & Review This Business ✍️
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
3 years ago
"It's a members-only club, but they do hold events for the public throughout the year. They do a ton of fundraising & donating to really good causes from college scholarships to care packages for homeless veterans. It really is a great place for people in the community to connect, drink, & have fun. So, I highly recommend talking to a member (like me) about getting an application and becoming a member!"
— Caitlin
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
10 months ago
"Good venue for our class reunion 😃"
— Janine Ross
2 years ago
"Traveling and GPS said they had a 5/3 Bank ATM. We had no idea it was in the Elks Lodge. The most unfriendly people every! I couldn't enter the building to use their ATM because I wasn't a member..... and I never will be of that's the way they are."
— Cindy Garverick
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
a year ago
"Super friendly people. Lovely place"
— Debbie Leadingham
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
6 years ago
"Great place to have a cold drink, the money generated there goes back into the community for charity!"
— dav will

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Elks Lodge 973 open to the public?

Day-to-day, the Lodge is a members-only facility. However, Lodge 973 hosts public events throughout the year, including fundraisers and community gatherings. Follow local announcements or contact the Lodge to find out about upcoming open events.

How do I become a member of Elks Lodge 973?

Membership in the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks is open to U.S. citizens who believe in God and are at least 21 years old. You'll need to be sponsored by a current member or reach out directly to Lodge 973 at 600 W Union St, Athens, OH to start the process.

Can I rent the Lodge venue for a private event?

Yes. Lodge 973 has hosted class reunions and private gatherings for community groups. Contact the Lodge directly to ask about availability, capacity, and rental arrangements.

What charitable work does Elks Lodge 973 do?

The Lodge runs several programs including college scholarships for local students, care packages for people experiencing homelessness, and support for veterans. These programs are funded through membership dues, fundraising events, and donations.

Is there an ATM at Elks Lodge 973?

Yes, there is a Fifth Third Bank ATM located inside the Lodge. Keep in mind that access to the building is generally restricted to members, so calling ahead before making a special trip is recommended.

Where exactly is Elks Lodge 973 located?

The Lodge is at 600 W Union St, Athens, OH 45701, on the west side of Athens near the Ohio University campus area. Street parking is available nearby.

The Order · Since 1868

Community. Friendship. Charity.

Every Elks lodge belongs to one of America's oldest and largest fraternal orders. Through the Elks National Foundation, the Order has given more than $481 million to college scholarships, veterans, and neighbors in need.

Join the Elks
A Proud Heritage

The Elks gave America
Flag Day.

Long before it was a national observance, the Order set aside June 14th to honor the flag. Patriotism has always been one of our cardinal principles, and every lodge meeting still closes the same way it has for over a century.

“To our absent members.” — the Eleven O’Clock Toast

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Community · Friendship · Charity

Who are the Elks?

The Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks is one of America's oldest and largest fraternal orders, founded in 1868. Every lodge is a home for fellowship, service, and patriotism in its own hometown.

$481M+given through the Elks National Foundation for scholarships, veterans, and community programs.

What the Order does

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