Known as the business hub of northeast Georgia, Gainesville is home to over 40,000 residents and features an abundance of industry, entertainment and recreation. Dating back to the 1800s, the City of Gainesville was originally established as “Mule Camp Springs” by settlers following Indian trails. It maintains its historical legacy in Hall County as a transportation and trade center. Gainesville received its name from General Edmund P. Gaines, a renowned war hero, military surveyor and roadbuilder.
Enjoy outdoor adventures in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains and nearby Lake Lanier. Although it’s the 20th largest city in Georgia, Gainesville is a place quaint enough to know your neighbors, while maintaining big-city amenities.
Unique Retail and Dining
Atlanta Highway Seafood. Serving a wide variety of Cajun and American dishes, Atlanta Highway Seafood is rated #1 on Tripadvisor’s list of Gainesville restaurants. This local spot is open Tuesday to Saturday, so stop by for delicious seafood options like oysters, shrimp and fresh-caught fish, as well as gumbo, po-boys, wraps and more.
Luna’s. If you are looking for a fine dining experience in a casual atmosphere, Luna’s is the place for you. The menu lists southern classics such as fried green tomatoes to delicacies such as filet and lobster tail. Enjoy dinner in the main dining room, host private events in one of multiple spaces, or enjoy cocktails, small bite and live music in The Piano Lounge.
Scott’s Downtown. Located in the historic Pilgrims-Estes building in downtown Gainesville, enjoy fine dining at Scott’s Downtown. Its menu includes mouth-watering steaks, fresh seafood and local produce selections. A full drink menu is also available for an elegant meal all-around.
Downtown Gainesville. Shop until you drop at 50+ shops in and around the downtown Gainesville square! In addition to shopping and dining, it’s the setting for events and community celebrations throughout the year. With everything from boutiques to vibrant night life, you can experience “so much, so close” in downtown Gainesville.
Entertainment and Recreation
Lake Lanier. As Georgia’s largest lake, Lake Lanier offers endless opportunities for fun on the water. Spend the day fishing, boating or swimming across the lake and stay for dinner at Sidney’s Restaurant, BullFrog’s Bar & Grille, LandShark Bar & Grill at Margaritaville at Lanier Islands and many other choices along Lake Lanier’s shoreline. In addition to its lake activities, Lake Lanier also boasts a golf course, hiking and walking trails and an expansive water park.
Frances Meadows Aquatic Center. This state-of-the-art aquatic facility has it all – swim lessons, fitness classes and equipment, a splash zone and lifeguard training. Whether your children are new to the water or are looking to improve their skills, swim classes are open to all ages. Make a splash in the 10-lane competition pool and outdoor water park or meet your fitness goals in the fully equipped gym area.
River Forks Park. This park on Lake Lanier is a camper’s dream, perfect for catching some sun on the beach and grilling up a picnic. Your family will enjoy the 40,000-square-foot beach, multiple campsites and sports courts. River Forks Park also features 24-hour security, fishing amenities and three outdoor pavilions, providing much-needed shade in the summer months.
Interactive Neighborhood for Kids, Inc. “INK” is a one-of-a-kind, entertaining destination for the whole family. INK is a hands-on children’s museum where children learn through interactive role-playing about being a banker, grocery store clerk, doctor, dentist and many more. This non-profit organization aims to help children develop their full potential and explore their dreams.
Attractions
Atlanta Botanical Garden – Gainesville. Discover floral wonders at Atlanta Botanical Garden-Gainesville! The garden’s unique presentation of flowers and native plants captivates visitors from all over. Be sure to tour the Ada Mae Pass Ivester Children’s Garden and discover the garden’s many pathways by waterfalls, over bridges and through acres of natural woodland.
Quinlan Visual Arts Center. The mission statement of this local arts center is, “bringing visual arts to life, and to the life of the community.” The Quinlan Visual Arts Center captivates the community through its exhibits, classes, workshops and summer camps. The Winter Exhibition is currently displayed, now until early February, and features “Life is Nothing but a Souvenir,” “Paint as Language,” “I call it… Heart Marks” and “How I See Her,” among other pieces.
Northeast Georgia History Center. History comes to life at the Northeast Georgia History Center through historical items unique to the region. In partnership with Brenau University, the Center provides a greater understanding of the region’s cultural, social, economic and political history. Onsite attractions include the White Path Cabin, blacksmith demonstrations and historic toys and games, as well as other traveling and permanent exhibits.
Elachee Nature Science Center. Boasting 1,500 acres of forest and 13 miles of hiking trails, the Elachee Nature Center is a treat for outdoor adventurers of all ages. It aims to “promote environmental understanding through education and conservation.” In addition to self-guided portions, the Center also showcases a live animal exhibit, featuring 25 native Georgia reptile and amphibian species, a demonstration beehive, ecology exhibits and the Legacy Lodge, full of rich, Georgia geology. It also offers workshops and special events, pre-K to 12th grade field trips, birthday parties and summer camps, all to ensure the environmental education of the community.
If you are looking for a quiet retreat for your family, Gainesville also boasts a vast array of residential opportunities. According to Trulia, over 750 residences and homesites are listed, priced from $150,000 to $5.4 million. With a median home price of $400,055, Gainesville’s real estate market is friendly to first-time homebuyers and growing families looking to expand.
The Manor at Gainesville Township, a new community by Artisan Built Communities, offers luxurious living and modern comforts for residents. Priced from the $500,000s, homes are walking distance from exclusive amenities, such as sports courts, a clubhouse with a pool, dog park, pocket parks and an extensive trail system with disc golf. It’s also located adjacent to the brand-new The Coop youth athletic complex and just minutes from downtown Gainesville and Lake Lanier.
Head out to Gainesville today to experience the outdoorsy charm and create your dream life in Northeast Georgia’s fastest growing city.
