Things To Do
in Buford
Buford is a small city in northeastern Georgia, just north of Atlanta, anchored by Lake Lanier’s scenery and the shopping hub of the Mall of Georgia. It blends suburban convenience with easy access to outdoor recreation and family-friendly attractions. The area centers around shopping, dining, and nearby parks, with quick access to interstate travel and lake activities.
Buford serves as a gateway to northeast Georgia’s outdoor escapes while remaining approachable for visitors and residents alike.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Buford and settle into your accommodation. Take a leisurely stroll around Lake Lanier to soak in the natural beauty and tranquility of the water. Grab a hearty breakfast at a local cafe to rejuvenate for the exciting days ahead.
Visit the Buford Community Center and take a look at any ongoing exhibitions or performances. Enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant, trying out some Southern specialties. Explore the local shops and boutiques, each featuring unique crafts and memorabilia.
Dine in at a cozy BBQ joint, indulging in finger-licking favorites. After dinner, head out to enjoy some live music at a local venue where you can experience the vibrant local culture. Finish your evening with a relaxing stroll by the lake, reflecting on your first day.
Start your day with a scenic boat tour of Lake Lanier, admiring the beautiful waterfront homes and lush surroundings. Consider renting a kayak or paddleboard if you're feeling adventurous. Have brunch at a lakeside restaurant with a view of the water.
Spend your afternoon visiting the Lake Lanier Islands, where you can enjoy various activities, such as hiking and beach time. Experience the thrill of zip lining or opt for a peaceful picnic in a designated area. Capture stunning photos of the landscapes throughout your adventure.
Have dinner at a seafood restaurant, where you can savor fresh local catches. Afterward, head to a local brewery for a craft beer tasting experience. Wind down your day with some fun games at a nearby arcade or bowling alley.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee at cafe | $2-5 |
| 🥗Lunch at mid-range restaurant | $12-20 |
| 🏨One-night hotel | $100-180 |
| 🛒Groceries for a week | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close proximity to Lake Lanier and outdoor recreation
- Mall of Georgia and diverse dining options nearby
- Family-friendly with parks and trails
- Limited nightlife compared to Atlanta proper
- Traffic congestion during peak hours on I-985 and surrounding roads
- Can feel touristy near the lake and mall areas
Places to Visit in Buford
Visit one of these nice places.
Scenic vantage point with views of Lake Lanier and the dam, especially strong at sunrise or sunset.
Open-water shots along the shoreline offer reflections, sunsets, and water activity scenes.
Architectural lighting and urban-night scenes suitable for dynamic city photography near Buford.
Food in Buford
Buford Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic Southern starter featuring crisp tomatoes topped with creamy pimiento cheese, commonly found in regional diners and farm-to-table spots.
Must-Try!
Creamy grits topped with seasoned shrimp, a staple at many Southern menus and a good representation of Georgia coast and river flavors.
Warm peach cobbler with a flaky crust, a seasonal favorite often found in local bakeries and comfort-food joints.
Slow-smoked meats served with sides like coleslaw and baked beans, representing the region’s barbecue tradition.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A sprawling market with prepared foods and vendors offering a global array of flavors—great for tasting, authentic ingredients, and quick bites.
A broad dining hall with diverse quick-service options, from Southern staples to international bites, ideal for variety in one stop.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Friendly and polite conversation is common; queue in lines; keep noise reasonable in public spaces; hands kept visible at meals.
Safety
Tipping in Buford
Ensure a smooth experience
In the U.S., tipping is standard at 15-20% for dine-in service; tip on the pre-tax amount unless local practice differs.
Most venues accept cards; carry some cash for markets, small vendors, and tips where card readers aren’t available.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with frequent afternoon storms; carry water and sunscreen; mornings are best for outdoor activities.
Pleasant temperatures and colorful foliage around Lake Lanier; ideal for outdoor hikes and photography.
Typically mild to cool; occasional cold snaps; plan for shorter days and warm indoor options.
Mild weather with blooming landscapes; great for outdoor exploration and lakeside strolls.
Buford at Night
Hiking in Buford
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular hiking area with viewpoints of the foothills; common routes range from easy to moderate (roughly 2-4 miles round trip).
Nearby river trails and scenic overlooks suitable for shorter hikes near Roswell and Alpharetta.
Airports
How to reach Buford by plane.
Major international hub about 45-60 miles southwest; accessible via highways I-85 and I-75.
Small regional/general aviation airport in Chamblee, roughly 30-40 miles south.
General aviation airport near Lawrenceville; used for private flights, about 20-30 miles away.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A large portion of Buford’s population comprises suburban families seeking good schools and outdoor opportunities.
Many residents commute to the city or other Gwinnett/Hall County areas for work.
A mix of college-age individuals and young professionals contributing to the metro’s growth.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Extremely popular at the high school and college levels; Buford High School has a notable program.
Strong community and school-level participation with local leagues and youth programs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Buford.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose vegetable-forward dishes, beans, grains, and salads; many eateries can modify meat-based recipes; ask for vegetarian sides and sauces.