Are you searching for the best things to do in Gainesville, GA? Then this post will serve as a guide.
Gainesville is a spectacular city based in northern Georgia. Gainesville is notably known as the “poultry capital of the world” and is a city that has drawn public interest since 1850.
The city features lots of fun-filled sites that would give you that ideal desired vacation.
If you have decided to visit the city, here are some things you can do in Gainesville for fun.
Best & Fun Things to Do in Gainesville, GA
Below are some fun things to do in Gainesville, GA:
1. Explore Gainesville History at Northeast Georgia History Center
Won’t you love to know the history of this beautiful place you wish to visit?
Then a stroll to Northeast Georgia History Center should be top of your itinerary list, as this Center has all the information you need concerning the history of the city of Gainesville.
Northeast History Center fits more as a museum than a home of historical books.
It houses structures dating back to 11,000 years, and this prestigious Center also features a cabin made of wood, formerly the home of a high-profiled legend of the Cherokee nation.
The Center features a folk-art gallery alongside the Northeast Georgia Sports Hall of fame.
Location: 322 Academy St NE, Gainesville, GA 30501
2. Boat Riding at Paradise Rental Boats
If you require a place to relax and enjoy a boat ride while out in Gainesville, then Paradise Rental Boats is one location you should add to your to-do list of things to do in Gainesville.
The rental services offer rental services for over 70 boats.
Riders enjoy boat rides at low prices and select a boat of their choice as there are several boats available.
Boats like wakeboard, wave runners, and runabout, among others, are all present at this site.
Visitors here can either take a boat ride or stop by for a swim as their pools are lovely for swimming and fishing.
This spot is also ideal for family outings and picnics with friends.
You won’t run out of things to do when visiting this lovely site.
Location: 8800 Port Royale Dr, Gainesville, GA 30506.
3. Jazz Music at Smithgall Arts Center
Smithgall Arts Center is one lovely place you shouldn’t miss out on in Gainesville.
The Center is a multifunctional location that offers many packages to keep its visitors entertained.
It has a large landmass that spans 20,000 sq ft. Present in the Center is several art artifacts available for lease to guests.
The Center also features several special sessions where visitors listen to jazz music and watch live performances. Something to do on the weekends, this is the perfect place for you.
If you need to cool off after a stressful and hectic day of touring Gainesville, then the Smithgall Arts center is where you should be.
Location: 331 Spring Street, SW Gainesville, GA 30501.
4. View Amazing Art Collections at the Quinlan Visual Arts Center
You can’t love art and not prioritize a visit to Quinlan Visuals Art Center on your bucket list of things to do in Gainesville, as you’ll miss out on lots of what this city offers.
Gainesville is a city that has a rich history and is known globally as a home of culture and arts as it reflects a massive part of the nation’s history.
The Center features five gallery sections that run a public display of more than seven art exhibitions annually.
There are lots of art artifacts at this beautiful Center for sightseeing. Art lovers will be thrilled by the quality of art exhibited in this beautiful Center.
The Center features a host of several visual arts like paintings, sculptures, folk arts, and still life pieces.
Location: 514 Green St NE, Gainesville, GA 288559.
5. Cool Evening at Lake Sidney Lanier
How about spending the evening in an excellent, lovely, serene environment?
Lake Sidney Lanier, which currently serves as Chattahoochee River’s dam, was discovered around the mid-15th century.
Visitors here experience various events, including jet-skiing, remarkable water rides, etc.
You don’t have to bother visiting only during summer because even during winter, you get to experience an animated Christmas light show on the lake island.
You won’t miss out on amusement rides and live nativity scenes, would you?
So do well to add a visit here among your things to do when you visit Gainesville.
6. Relaxation at the Don Carter State Park
How about relaxing at a fantastic spot where you can chill and enjoy thrilling sights?
Currently existing as the latest state park in Georgia, Don Carter state park is one unique park that offers pure entertainment to its guests.
The park is currently a historical structure as it is currently the only park mounted on a 38,000 acres land mass.
Quite intriguing, right?
Water lovers would love it out here as the park features a multi-use trail that creates room for skaters and hikers to enjoy lovely rides.
Bikers can also enjoy lovely rides on the trail. However, visitors are not restricted to just motorized activities as the exists a lush forest where guests can take a stroll and enjoy the scenery.
There’s always something for everybody at Don Carter State Park. So do well to visit this spot for a fun-filled vacation.
Location: 5000 N Browning Bridge Rd, Gainesville, GA 30506
7. Family Time out at Kinsey Family Farm
There are many places to have a fun-filled life in Gainesville, and Kinsey Family Farm is no exception.
If you require a spot to spend quality time out with your family, then this is one place you should be.
Kinsey Family Farm is a family-owned farm that offers Lots of activities for adults and kids.
They are well known for their Christmas tradition of tree cutting. Also, you can check out a host of several blooms present at their nursery.
Owners of gardens can also explore and purchase decoration materials to give their gardens a perfect look.
Location: 7140 Jot Em Down Rd, Gainesville, GA 30506
8. Visit Beulah Rucker Museum
Would you love to add to your bank of knowledge and know about historical figures from Gainesville?
Then try out a visit to Beulah Rucker Museum.
Named after an African-American woman, Beulah Rucker Museum holds a collection of stories of African-American heritage and the roles some historical figures played in the development of Gainesville.
Beulah Rucker Museum is a historic structure whose existence dates back to the late 19th century and currently ranks on the National Register of Historic Places.
An impressive feat, right?
The rooms in the building are Well lighted and thoroughly furnished. Notable stories of mention are materials on the life of Beulah Rucker and her role in the development of the community.
Location: 2101 Athens Hwy, Gainesville, GA 30507.
9. Tour Around the Solar System
Would you love to gain more insight into the solar system while in Gainesville?
Then find your way to this fantastic site where you can take an actual walk through the solar system.
Present at the Heart of the city down to Lake Lanier’s Longwood Park lies a 1 to 2,000,000,000 scale solar system model.
Visitors can engage in interactive walks and learn more about the Earth’s location among other planetary bodies.
Outside getting educated on planetary bodies, visitors can also explore downtown Gainesville while taking a walk around this model.
You can’t be a fan of outer space and not prioritize a visit here on your itinerary list.
Don’t miss out on a visit here as you will be glad you did.
Location: Spring St SW, Gainesville, GA 30501
10. Funtime at City Park
City Park is a fantastic location that likewise offers an unwavering fun experience to adults and kids.
The park has lots of activities to keep visitors glued to the spot.
City Park features a vast collection of fun games and an excellent gaming environment.
Available at the park are four table tennis courts for tennis lovers to enjoy a lovely time playing tennis.
The park also features a concessions building with well-kept restrooms.
Visitors here can also engage in ball games such as baseball and softball.
The city park isn’t just a Home for games as the park also features several pavilions with picnic tables where guests can sit and enjoy lovely moments with friends and family.
The park also offers fitness equipment for fitness lovers. City park truly fits the description of a perfect vacation spot hence the need for you to consider visiting this serene location whenever you visit Gainesville.
Location: 830 Green Street, Gainesville, GA 30501.
11. Play Golf at Oaks Miniature Golf
Oaks Miniature Golf course is a golf center that comprises Eighteen different holes.
Unlike other miniature golf courses with season-based opening days, the Oaks Miniature Golf course is available all year round. As a result, visitors don’t have to bother about scheduling their travels in specific seasons.
The Golf course isn’t just a place for golf lovers alone, as the park is available for bookings for birthdays and other social gatherings.
They also have a little pub selling tasty pizza, chilled ice cream, and drinks.
And not to worry about spending too much cause the prices here are affordable compared to the services rendered.
Location: 3709 Whiting Road, Gainesville, GA 30504
12. Take Chilled Beer at Downtown Drafts
Downtown Draft is a fantastic beer pub mounted in the Heart of Georgia.
The pub is a family-owned business that specializes in homemade beer. Their beer menu is updated regularly, so you’re sure to find anything you want at this pub.
The environment is friendly, and the prices here are easily affordable. Not to mention their ample space for sampling liquors made by both distant and local Brewers.
Downtown Draft isn’t just a place for beer lovers only, as this lovely spot also offers several gourmet sauces, snacks, and glassware, among other things.
Location: 115 Bradford St NE, Gainesville, GA 30501.
13. Visit Piedmont Hotel
Piedmont Hotel is one lovely spot you shouldn’t miss out on while on a Gainesville vacation.
Several hotels exist in North Georgia, but none are historically significant except the remarkable Piedmont Hotel.
This historic structure started entire operations in 1876 and received patronage from a handful of significant individuals who were heroes during the post-civil war era.
The hotel has hosted notable personalities like Daniel Sickles, Henry Grady, General Joseph Johnston, and former US President Woodrow Wilson.
Worthy of mention is the birth of President Wilson’s daughter on the ground floor of this historic hotel.
The environment is truly remarkable and lovely and truly worth visiting.
Location: 827 Maple St, Gainesville, GA 30501.
14. Spend Time at Frances Meadows Aquatic Center
Do you need something to do during the summer holidays with family in Gainesville?
Then Frances Meadows Aquatic Center is just the perfect fit for you to make that vacation worthwhile.
This Center is a host of all fun things which are water-related.
The Center has a splash zone comprising two body slides up to 3 stories in height.
There is the presence of interactive pools for kids to enjoy.
The park also features smaller slides for children and lots of space to take shade under an umbrella and enjoy the scenery.
Lovers of swimming can either swim for leisure or engage in exciting swimming competitions at the Competition pools. Fitness enthusiasts are not left out as they can try out the equipment at the fitness center present at the park.
Location: 1545 Community Way, Gainesville, GA 30501.
15. Tour Around North Georgia Garden Trail
North Georgia Garden Trial is yet another remarkable place to visit in Gainesville.
The trail comprises a track that connects 26 several public gardens around Gainesville.
The trail is a perfect location for an evening walk because its view is remarkable, and the sight of garden trees and flowers is quite thrilling.
The park features natural dwellings like Streams whose water flows calmly and flowerbeds blossoming with different shades.
Also present here is the city’s Linwood Nature Preserve, a refuge that spans over 13- hectares, reserved for ancient forest and wildlife preservation.
Visitors can also get to explore Monarch mountain’s top pollinator garden. The garden plays an exclusive role in feeding monarch butterflies migrating to Mexico through the Canadian border.
16. Spend Time with Family at Funopolis Family Fun Center
Vacations aren’t complete without having a perfect time out with family.
If you need the perfect venue to chill and spend quality time with family in Gainesville, then Funopolis Family Fun Center is just the perfect fit.
The Center is a fantastic spot with many fun activities for kids and adults.
It’s a perfect location for event hosting for those who plan on hosting events or are just in need of something intriguing to do; you will enjoy your time out here.
The Center has mini-golf for golfers of all ages, go-karts, route 66 bowling, tornado rides, and lots more.
The Center also has an arcade game room for gamers to try something exciting and competitive.
If you visit during the weekend, you can try out unique dishes at the Center’s cafe.
They frequently offer weekly specials, so do well to check out their website at Funopolis Family Fun Center; and you may be looking to get hands-on special offers and coupons to give you a discounted price.
It would be best if you didn’t leave Gainesville without visiting this new venue, and you’ll be glad you did.
Location: 40155 US-441 Commerce, GA 30529
17. Visit Alta Vista Cemetery
If you are a history-personified individual and would love to learn about historical figures of this city, then a visit to Alta Vista Cemetery shouldn’t skip out on your itinerary list.
The cemetery dates back to 1872, when Allen D. Candler sold 9.25 acres to the city.
The cemetery is the resting place for most of Gainesville’s iconic figures.
Iconic legends like Jesse Jewell, who helped Gainesville become the “poultry capital of the world,” were laid to rest here.
The yard is also the resting place of a NASA astronaut, two popular songwriters, and two ex-governors of the state.
One significant gravestone that, over the years, has drawn people to visit this spot is that of Lt General James Longstreet. He was a well-known General and played a significant role in the city of Gainesville.
If history is your thing, then you shouldn’t leave Gainesville without coming down here.
Location: 521 Jones St, Gainesville, GA 30501.
18. Take Kids to Interrogative Neighborhood for Kids (INK)
Do you wish to travel with your kids and need a venue where they can learn while having fun?
Interactive Neighborhood for Kids, popularly called INK, is a non-profit establishment whose sole aim is to create an environment for kids to broaden their horizons through hands-on learning.
The exhibits of this museum trigger kids to develop their thinking.
While learning about certain facilities available in the city, kids can also have fun and take up roles to spice up learning.
Location: 999 Chestnut St SE, Gainesville, GA 30501, United States.
19. Explore Atlanta Botanical Garden
Gainesville is a city with high regard for art and nature, and this is one venue that reflects the nation’s love for natural dwellings.
The Atlantic Botanical Garden is one of the nearest openings in Gainesville and has since lived to expectations.
It started operation fully in 2015, and this is one place to learn about the lovely Natural Landscape that rounds the city of Gainesville.
The orderly display of the garden is unique and a lovely sight to behold.
Touring through the park, you’ll get to find short trail paths that lead you to sight a showcase of Gainesville’s unique flora and fauna.
The scenery through the trial is quite remarkable, and needless to say that kids aren’t left behind as there exists a Fairyland Trolley that serves as a bridge between two Fairy villages in the Kids Garden.
This location is a perfect spot for adults and kids to enjoy a lovely time out.
Location: 1911 Sweetbay Dr, Gainesville Museum.
20. Crawford W. Long Museum
Crawford W. Long Museum is a museum whose sole aim is to proffer educational content and give insight into the life of an iconic figure in Gainesville city.
The museum houses an exhibit about the life of Dr. Crawford W. Long, a doctor whose discovery changed the world of medicine forever.
Facts about such notable figures are worthy of study, don’t you agree?
Dr. Long was the first man to use ether as an anesthetic during a surgical operation.
This discovery has led to patients having surgical operations without feeling pain.
The museum houses a display of Dr. Long’s personal life, even before his historic discovery.
If you love history and fancy learning about historical personalities, visiting this museum must be prioritized on your to-do list.
21. Fun Time at Longwood Park
There are so many exciting things to do in Gainesville, and Longwood park is one of those exciting places to spend a lovely time with family.
Popularly known as “what’s the name of that park across from Gainesville School?” this park is a perfect relaxation spot to chill out after a hectic day at work.
Visitors can engage in playing tennis at the tennis court. In addition, there exists a walking trail that cuts through the shores of Lake Lanier, where visitors can enjoy fantastic scenery while having a walk.
Also present at the park are two pavilions, functional restrooms, a grill, and lots more.
Location: 20 Pearl Nix Pkwy, Gainesville, GA 30501.
22. Outdoor Experience at Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest
Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest is one place all lovers of Outdoor experience would find exciting to visit.
The Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest is a specular masterpiece that cuts across 26 countries.
The forest spans over 867,000 and has a walking trail of around 850 miles.
The location features various events and beautiful scenery to keep visitors glued to the spot.
They have available trials which allow for hiking. In addition, the area has a vast picnic arena with tables where visitors can relax and enjoy a lovely time.
Watching the water flow gently on the streams here is enough to entertain you.
Location: 1755 Cleveland Hwy, Gainesville, GA 30501.
23. Take a Walk on Big Creek Greenway
Big Creek Greenway makes our list of the 23rd best things to do in Gainesville.
Big Creek Greenway is a trial comprising about 26 miles.
Visitors can spend time gazing at wildlife species such as Canadian geese, ducks, and deer.
The trail is long enough and opens for jogging, biking, walking, and lots more.
Location: 5259 Union Hill Rd. Cumming, GA 30040.
24. Experience Stage plays at Gainesville Theater Alliance
If you would love to cool off at a fantastic venue showcasing live theatre plays and music, do well to include Gainesville Theatre Alliance among your things to do when you’re in Gainesville.
The alliance comprises a combination of professionals, community members, and students whose sole aim is to foster learning through performing art.
The group is known Nationally across North Georgia and organizes shows featuring stage plays and music.
If you fancy theater dramas, this place is a must-visit.
Location: UNG Performing Arts Building, 3820 Mundy Mill Rd, Oakwood, GA 30566, USA.
25. Elachee Nature Science Center
The term Elachee is a word in Cherokee that means New Green Earth. And the exhibits in this park validate the reason why this park was named Elachee.
The Center is located within the Chicopee Woods Nature preserve. This region is highly valued and well-taken care of as it is considered a prized treasure that children yet unborn should visit sometime in the future.
Classes hold at intervals, and visitors learn about the essence of conserving nature’s virtue.
The area is not restricted to adults only as kids are also allowed entry and can enjoy time out camping and playing kid games. The area’s trail is also available for hiking.
Are you in need of something fun to do? Then, be sure to avail yourself of the fantastic site, and you’ll be glad you stopped by.
Location: 2125 Elachee Dr, Gainesville, GA 30504.
When is the Best Time to Visit Gainesville, GA?
The best time to visit Gainesville, GA, for ideal weather is either between March 26th to June 3rd and September 3rd to November 4th.
The average weather temperature in Gainesville, GA, differs significantly.
If you’re looking for the warmest time to visit Gainesville, the hottest months are July, August, and June.
The month of June is the busiest, and prices of hotels inflate within this period.
November seems to be less crowded, so tourists planning on a vacation with a low budget can schedule their visit within these days as the prices of hotels are less expensive this time.
How Much Does it Cost to Travel to Gainesville, GA?
Regardless of where you are around the globe, the Average worldwide flight cost to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) is between $730 and $1,171 per person (economy flights).
And $2,291 to $3,675 per person ( first-class flights).
How Much Does it Cost to Live in Gainesville, GA as a Guest (Visitor)?
The average cost of living for a 7-day trip in Gainesville, GA, is as follows:
- $1,923 for a solo traveler
- $3,454 for a couple
- And $6,475 for a family of four
A solo traveler looking to visit Gainesville, GA, is expected to budget $39 to $87 per day for feeding and transportation.
The average hotel price for a solo traveler ranges from $84 to $99 per night for a 1,2 or 3-star hotel room and $176 to $216per night for a 1-bed vacation rental.
Couples, on the other hand, are expected to have a budget of $78 to $174 per day for food, sightseeing, and transportation.
For couples, hotels ranged from $84 to $99 per night for a 1,2 or 3-star hotel room and $176 to $216 per night for a 1-bed vacation rental.
The average budget for a family of 4 is between $156 to $348 per day for food and transportation.
While for lodging, the average price for a two or 3-star hotel is $168 to $198 per night and $246 to $324 per night for a 2-bed vacation rental.