Rosalyn Kawa and her grandmother Diane Schermerhorn both live in Hall County and like to go on boat rides together on Lake Lanier. Rosalyn also loves ballet lessons, and Diane enjoys the Master Gardener program and Gainesville Newcomers Club.
2025 SERVICES
Get registered and hook up those utilities
COMMUNITIES
Hall County includes several distinct areas
GOVERNMENT
Keep track of who represents your area
EDUCATION
Enroll your kids or teens in local schools and colleges
RECREATION
Find things to do around the area
DINING
Sample the local flavors and find your new favorite
Unwind with drinks and activities at local breweries
for all ages
Photos by Scott Rogers
Welcome to Hall County!
From the sparkling shores of Lake Lanier to the scenic beauty of the North Georgia mountains and the vibrant restaurant scene on Gainesville’s historic square, your new home offers something for everyone. Hall County strikes the perfect balance—far enough from Atlanta to enjoy a slower pace of life, yet close enough to take advantage of everything the city has to offer. Whether you’ve settled in the suburban neighborhoods of South Hall, the rolling hills of North Hall, or somewhere in between, this is a place where you can truly get to know your neighbors and feel part of a close-knit community.
The Times has proudly served Hall County since 1947. We’re committed to providing trusted, unbiased local news and hope you’ll come to rely on us as your go-to resource for staying informed. In these pages, you’ll find
a guide to some of the area’s best restaurants, parks, and helpful information—like how to update your driver’s license or who represents you in government. We hope this guide helps you feel more connected and at home here. To stay engaged and in the know, sign up for our free email newsletters at gainesvilletimes.com/ newsletters. You can also explore our print and digital subscription options at gainesvilletimes.com/subscribe.
John Chambliss Managing Editor The Times
Publisher Stephanie Woody
Managing Editor
John Chambliss
Life Editor
Greg Finan Jr.
Night Editor
Michael Buckelew
Photography
Scott Rogers
Account Executives
Jenna Wellborn
Jordan Krippner
Advertising Assistant
Alex Henry
Design/Prepress Department
Chelsea Sunshine, Director of Creative Services
April Seymour, Prepress Coordinator
Courtney Smith, Graphic Designer
Carmen Rivera, Graphic Designer
Nolan Esparza, Graphic Designer
New to Hall County?
SERVICES
GET A DRIVER’S LICENSE
New state residents must apply for a Georgia driver license within 30 days of becoming a resident. All of the Georgia Department of Drivers Services centers can transfer an out-of-state license to a Georgia driver license. Applicants who are at least 18 years old and surrender a valid out-of-state license, or one that has expired in less than two years, do not have to take a driver’s exam, but will need a vision exam.
Georgia Department of Drivers Services: 1010 Aviation Blvd., Gainesville, 678-413-8400, dds.ga.gov
REGISTER YOUR VEHICLE
Moving within Georgia
An address change can be submitted at https://eservices.drives. ga.gov or by visiting the Hall County Tax Commissioner’s Office on the first floor of the Hall County Government Center at 2875 Browns Bridge Road, Gainesville. Be ready to present a valid Georgia driver’s license or Georgia ID card with the current Hall County address.
You can also email questions to tagoffice@hallcounty.org. The mailing address is Hall County Tax Commissioner, P.O. Box 1579, Gainesville GA 30503.
Submit a change of address request within 30 days of establishing residency.
Moving from another state
Within 30 days of establishing residency, visit the tax commissioner’s office on the first floor of the Hall County Government Center at 2875 Browns Bridge Road, Gainesville, and bring the following documentation:
Owner’s driver’s license with new Hall County address
Proof of valid Georgia insurance
Proof of ownership, such as original title or current registration from previous state.
Note, title ad valorem tax is due at time of registration and is assessed at 3% of the vehicle’s fair market value.
More info: hallcountytax.org
REGISTER TO VOTE
In Georgia, voters do not register to vote by party. Voters in a primary can select one party’s ballot they wish to cast.
Online: registertovote.sos.ga.gov. Must have a driver’s license or identification card issued by the Georgia Department of Driver Services.
In person: New residents can register at the Hall County Elections Office at the Hall County Government Center at 2875 Browns Bridge Road in Gainesville. Learn more at www.hallcounty.org/249/Elections.
SET UP UTILITIES
Electric
Georgia Power: 888-660-5890, georgiapower.com
Jackson EMC: 800-462-3691, jacksonemc.com
Sawnee EMC: 770-887-2363, www.sawnee.com
City of Buford: 770-945-6761, cityofbuford.com
Water, Sewer
Gainesville: 770-535-6878, gainesville.org
Buford: 770-945-6761, cityofbuford.com
Flowery Branch: 770-967-6371, flowerybranchga.org
Lula: 770-869-3801, lula.georgia.gov
Natural gas
Visit psc.ga.gov/utilities/natural-gas/ to learn more about selecting a provider and see a list of certified marketers
Telephone, internet, cable
AT&T: 800-288-2020, att.com
Charter Spectrum Communications: 855-366-7132, spectrum.com
Comcast Xfinity: 800-934-6489, xfinity.com
Solid waste
Gainesville: Curbside pickup for household garbage, general rubbish and/or recycling is provided.
Hall County: There are 12 compactor sites and recycling containers throughout the county. Private services are available for a fee.
Red Oak Sanitation: www.sanitation-services.com, 678-455-7819
Waste Management: www.wm.com, 678-277-5014
Times File Photo
The Georgia Department of Driver Services is located on Aviation Boulevard in Gainesville.
HALL COUNTY
Population: 221,745 (2024 census estimate)
Demographics: 85.4% White, 29.4% Hispanic, 8.7% Black, 2.8% Asian
Median household income: $77,430
History: Founded 1819, named for Dr. Lyman Hall, a signer of the Declaration of Independence, governor, minister and physician. Formed from land annexed from Franklin and Jackson counties, much of which was settled through a lottery system after the Cherokees and Creeks were forcibly removed from the area
Known for: Lake Lanier, a tourist destination drawing 12 million to its shores, which make up the western border of Hall
CITIES AND TOWNS
Gainesville
Population: 47,265 (2023 census estimate)
Demographics: 54.1% White, 35.7% Hispanic, 13.5% Black, 3.1% Asian
Median household income: $64,636
History: Founded in 1821, named for Edmund P. Gaines, a general in the War of 1812. The city was devastated by tornadoes in 1901 and 1936, the latter killing more than 200 people and still one of the deadliest in U.S. history. After the city was rebuilt, President Franklin D. Roosevelt visited in 1938 to dedicate the new courthouse; Roosevelt Square now bears his name.
Known for: “Poultry Capital of the World,” marked by numerous poultry processing plants and the chicken statue at Poultry Park at Academy Street and Jesse Jewell Parkway. Also known as “the hospitality capital of the world,” so designated by NBC broadcaster Charlie Jones during the 1996 Olympic rowing and canoe/kayak competition on Lake Lanier.
Braselton
Population: 15,538 (2023 census estimate)
Demographics: 79.1% White, 8.4% Hispanic, 8.0% Black, 3.2% Asian
Median household income: $113,810 History: Founded 1916, named for farmer Harrison Braselton
Known for: Road Atlanta speedway, site of the annual Petit Le Mans and other championship road races; Chateau Elan winery and resort where Hall, Jackson and Gwinnett meet.
Buford
Population: 18,273 (2023 census estimate)
Demographics: 52.1% White, 29.8% Hispanic, 11.2% Black, 7.2% Asian
Median household income: $71,598
History: Founded 1872, named for railroad owner Col. Algernon S. Buford.
Known for: The former Bona Allen Tannery, for decades one of the nation’s largest leather tanneries for saddles, shoes and harnesses, giving Buford the nickname “Leather City.”
Flowery Branch
Population: 11,607 (2023 census estimate)
Demographics: 76.0% White, 12.1% Hispanic, 6.8% Black, 2.1% Asian
Median household income: $88,185
History: Founded 1874; name derived from Cherokee term “Nattagaska,” which translated to “Blossom Creek,” and later to “Flowery Branch.”
Known for: Headquarters and training camp home of the NFL’s Atlanta Falcons
Oakwood
Population: 6,412 (2023 census estimate)
Demographics: 57.5% White, 31.7% Hispanic, 11.5% Black,2.0% Asian
Median household income: $61,191
History: Founded 1903. Named for use of oak wood for train fuel during the 1800s.
Known for: Home of University of North Georgia Gainesville campus
Lula
Population: 2,903 (2023 census estimate)
Demographics: 81.1% White, 9.0% Hispanic, 7.9% Black, 2.2% Asian
Median household income: $64,282
History: Founded 1876, named for the daughter of railroad engineer Ferdinand Phinizy whose name was spelled “Lulah.” Merged with nearby town of Belton in 1956.
Known for: Being a railroad hub between Athens and Atlanta, celebrated at the annual Lula Railroad Days Festival.
Clermont
Population: 1,316 (2023 census estimate)
Demographics: 93.0% White, 4.6% Hispanic, 0.0% Black, 0.0% Asian
Median household income: $132,188
History: Founded 1913, originally known as “Dip” because the postmaster wanted a short name he could write on mail cancellations. The name Clermont refers to the clear view of the surrounding mountains.
Known for: The Chattahoochee School, established in 1901 following the county’s earliest known school, Concord Academy.
Gillsville
Population: 315 (2023 census estimate)
Demographics: 96.8% White, 8.6% Hispanic, 1.9% Black,0.0% Asian
Median household income: $79,375
History: Chartered 1901, but town dates back to 1784 as Hall’s oldest settlement, originally named “Stonethrow.” Later named for postmaster Isaiah Gill in 1832.
Known for: Pottery, specifically the Hewell family’s pottery shop and annual Turnin’ and Burnin’ festival and signature crafts.
Scott Rogers The Times
Gainesville received a Georgia Exceptional Main Street designation from the state as a Main Street program.
GOVERNMENT
ELECTIONS
Municipal elections are set for Nov. 4, with new representation taking office in early 2026. Below are the representatives in office through the end of the year.
Here are the key dates in the 2025 elections:
Last day to register: Oct. 6
Early voting: Starts Oct. 14, ends Oct. 31
Last day to submit absentee ballot application: Oct. 24
Election Day: Nov. 4
Runoff date: Dec. 2
To learn what district you live in, visit mvp.sos.ga.gov.
UNITED STATES
Sen. Jon Ossoff
Party: Democrat
Contact: ossoff.senate.gov/contact
Status: Sworn in 2021, up for reelection November 2026.
Sen. Raphael Warnock
Party: Democrat
Contact: warnock.senate.gov/contact
Status: Sworn in 2021, up for reelection November 2028.
Rep. Andrew Clyde
District: 9, covers Gilmer, Fannin, Rabun, Habersham, Stephens, and parts of Hall, Franklin, and Gwinnett counties.
Party: Republican
Contact: clyde.house.gov/contact
Status: Sworn in 2021, up for reelection November 2026.
Rep. Rich McCormick
District: 7, covers Lumpkin, Dawson, and Forsyth counties, along with parts of Hall, Cherokee, and Gwinnett counties.
Party: Republican
Contact: https://mccormick.house.gov/ contact
Status: Sworn in 2023 to District 6, up for reelection November 2026.
GEORGIA
Sen. Drew Echols
District: 49, covering most of Hall County
Party: Republican
Email: drew.echols@senate.ga.gov
Status: Sworn in 2025, his current term will end on January 11, 2027.
Sen. Bo Hatchett
District: 50, covering parts of Hall, Jackson and White counties and Banks,
Voters cast their ballot Friday, Nov. 1, 2024, at the Gainesville Civic Center on the last day of early voting.
Habersham, Stephens, Franklin, Rabun and Towns counties
Party: Republican
Email: bo.hatchett@senate.ga.gov
Status: Sworn in 2021, his current term will end on January 11, 2027.
Rep. Soo Hong
District: 103, southernmost Hall County, northern Gwinnett County
Party: Republican
Email: ss.hong@house.ga.gov
Status: Sworn in 2023, her current term will end on January 11, 2027.
Rep. Matt Dubnik
District: 29, Gainesville, Oakwood and parts of western Hall County Party: Republican
Email: matt.dubnik@house.ga.gov
Status: Sworn in 2017, his current term will end on January 11, 2027.
Rep. Emory Dunahoo
District: 31, eastern Hall County and part of Jackson County Party: Republican
Email: emory.dunahoo@house.ga.gov
District: 31, east Hall County and part of Jackson County
Status: Sworn in 2011 to District 30. His current term will end on January 11, 2027.
Rep. Lee Hawkins
District: 27, northern Hall County and part of Lumpkin County
Party: Republican
Email: lee.hawkins@house.ga.gov
Status: Sworn in 2013, his current term will end on January 11, 2027.
Rep. Brent Cox
District: 28, western Hall County and part of Forsyth County Party: Republican
Email: brent.cox@house.ga.gov
Status: Sworn in 2023, his current term will end on January 11, 2027.
Rep. Derrick McCollum
District: 30, Flowery Branch and parts of southern Hall County Party: Republican
Email: derrick.mccollum@house.ga.gov
Status: Sworn in 2023, his current term will end on January 11, 2027.
Rep. David Clark
District: 100, southern Hall County, northern Gwinnett County, part of Forsyth County
Party: Republican
Email: david.clark@house.ga.gov
Status: sworn in 2023, his current term will end on January 11, 2027.
HALL COUNTY
Board of Education
Post 1: Debra Smith, debra.smith@hallco.org
Post 2: Brian Sloan, brian.sloan@hallco.org
Post 3: Chairman Craig Herrington, craig.herrington@hallco.org
Scott Rogers The Times
Post 4: Beau Sheppard, beau.sheppard@hallco.org
At-large: Bill Thompson, bill.thompson@hallco.org
GAINESVILLE
City Council
Five-member City Council elected at large and mayor, all elected to four-year terms.
Mayor: Sam Couvillon, scouvillon@gainesvillega.gov
Seats up for reelection in 2025: Mayor Sam Couvillon and Council Members Danny Dunagan (Ward 1) and Abigail Guzman (Ward 4)
Board
of Education
District 1: Chairman Andy Steward, andy.stewart@gcssk12.net
District 2: Kris Nordholz, kris.nordholz@gcssk12.net
District 3: Stacy Young, stacy.young@gcssk12.net
District 4: Heather Ramsey, heather.ramsey@gcssk12.net
District 5: Steven Pettit, steven.pettit@gcssk12.net
Planning and Appeals Board
These members are appointed by City Council: Doug Carter, Ryan Thompson, Eddie Martin Sr., Kelvin Simmons, Jane Fleming, Rick Young, Ellen Defoor and Barbara Brooks.
Other municipalities
Oakwood: Mayor Lamar Scroggs and council members Todd Wilson, Sheri Clark Millwood, Pat Jones, Rhonda Wood and Stephen Hendrix. Learn more at www.cityofoakwood.net.
Seats up for reelection in 2025: Mayor Lamar Scroggs and council members Stephen Hendrix and Pat Jones.
Lula: Mayor Joe Thomas and council members Tony Cornett, Denise Shockley, Chris Lewallen, Garnett Smith and Juliette Talley Roberts. Learn more at www.cityo-
flula.com.
Seats up for reelection in 2025: Mayor Joe Thomas and council members Tony Cornett (District 1) and Denise Shockley (District 2).
Braselton: Mayor Kurt Ward and council members Becky Richardson, Richard Harper, Tom Logan and James Murphy. Learn more at www.braselton.net.
Clermont: Mayor James Nix, Mayor Pro Term Seth Weaver and council members James Castleberry, Marcia Kesler, Amanda Nix and John Brady. Learn more at www. clermontga.com.
Seats up for reelection in 2025: Mayor James Nix and council members Marcia Kesler (Ward 3) and James Castleberry (Ward 4).
Gillsville: Mayor S. Wade Dale and council members Keith Segars, Jeff Perry, Todd Dale, Kody Rylee and Ricky Sutton
Seats up for reelection in 2025: Mayor Wade Dale, Kody Rylee (Post 1) and Jeff Perry (Post 2).
Flowery Branch: Mayor Edward Asbridge and council members Chris Mundy, Joseph Mezzanotte, William B. McDaniel, Joe Anglin and Oliver McLellan
Seats up for reelection in 2025: Mayor Ed Asbridge and council members William McDaniel, Joe Anglin and Oliver McClellan.
Times File Photo
Oakwood City Hall
GEORGIA SCHOOL CLIMATE STAR
RATING:
What It Means for Your Child’s School
Georgia schools receive a 1 to 5-star rating each year to reflect the quality of the school environment. A higher star rating indicates a more positive and supportive atmosphere for students, teachers, and families.
How the Rating Is Calculated:
Surveys (50%)
Feedback from students, parents, and staff about the school’s safety, relationships, and overall environment.
Student Discipline (15%)
Analysis of suspension and expulsion rates: fewer incidents contribute to a better score.
Safe & Substance-Free Environment (15%)
Evaluation of issues like bullying, drug use, and violence, fewer problems lead to a higher rating.
Attendance (20%)
Assessment of how often students, teachers, and staff attend school; higher attendance.
Who Calculates the Rating?
The Georgia Department of Education (GaDOE) collects and analyzes data from all public schools to assign the star rating.
Where to Find Your School’s Rating: Visit the Georgia Insights School Climate Dashboard.
Here’s how Gainesville and Hall County schools scored on a five-star rating system by The Georgia Department of Education. Note: Sandra Deal Elementary and Everwood Elementary are not included because they were not open yet when the ratings were compiled.
Kids play on the new inclusive playground Friday, Sept. 20, 2024, at Sandra Dunagan Deal Elementary following a ribbon cutting ceremony.
PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Hall County Schools
The county school system includes seven traditional high schools, eight middle schools and 18 elementary schools. Many of these schools have specialty programs like STEM academies and international baccalaureate programs or specific focuses on arts or world languages. Families can apply to attend a Hall school outside their attendance zone, though in most cases they must provide their own transportation. Families who live outside of the county can apply to one of the schools, but if accepted must provide transportation and pay tuition. A virtual school is also available for sixth through 12th graders who qualify.
Lanier College & Career Academy: This unique school offers various pathways to help meet the needs of local businesses, such as trades, hospitality and personal care services. Students can earn professional certifications and industry credentials as they run their own businesses open to the public, such as a bistro and graphic design.
Howard E. Ivester Early College: A dual enrollment campus that puts college professors in the classroom with high school students, who can earn a high school diploma at the same time as college credits. Open to qualified juniors and seniors and some sophomores.
The Foundry: This alternative school focuses on character development and a curriculum
that helps students learn to be successful.
2025-2026 school year: Aug. 1-May 20
More info: www.hallco.org
Gainesville City Schools
The Gainesville City School System includes six elementary schools, two middle schools — Gainesville Middle School East Campus and West Campus — and Gainesville High School, serving residents within the city limits. The district also has a nontraditional high school called Horizon Academy that offers accelerated learning and smaller class sizes for students who have fallen behind or struggle in a typical classroom environment. Parents who enroll their children in a school outside their designated attendance zone must provide their own transportation. Those residing outside the city limits can apply for enrollment at an annual tuition rate of $800 for the first student and $700 for each additional student.
2025-2026 school year: Aug. 5-May 21
More info: gcssk12.net
Buford City Schools
The Buford system touches the southern border of Hall County at the Gwinnett County line. Those living outside the city limits can also apply for enrollment in this city system.
2025-2026 school year: Aug. 1-May 21
More info: bufordcityschools.org
Mountain Education High School
This nontraditional public school with a site in Hall County offers evening, self-paced courses leading to a high school diploma. Courses can be completed on a part-time basis and transferred to another public high school. Learn more at www.mymec.org/sites/hall
PRIVATE SCHOOLS
Lakeview Academy: This private school in Gainesville serves students preschool through 12th grade. It’s an independent college-preparatory school with a rigorous curriculum and many extracurricular options including sports at the Georgia High School Association level. Learn more at lakeviewacademy.com.
Lanier Christian Academy: In South Hall, this K-12 private school provides a setting centered on faith as well as academic excellence. It also offers arts and athletics opportunities. Learn more at lanierchristianacademy.org.
Riverside Preparatory Academy: A boarding school in Gainesville for boys sixth through 12th grades from the U.S. and other countries. The setting is focused on rigor and accountability in a military-style setting and offers extracurricular activities including sports under the Georgia Independent School Association. Learn more at riversideprep.org
Elachee Nature Academy: A naturefocused school offering preschool through first
Scott Rogers The Times
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grade. Curriculum focuses on discovery and inquiry in the outdoors. Learn more at elachee.org/nature-academy
Maranatha Christian Academy: In Oakwood, this school serves students preschool to 12th grade from Christian households. The Bible is not merely a part of its core curriculum, but is the “foundation of all truth,” according to its website. Learn more at mcageorgia.com.
Chattahoochee Christian School: This K-8 faith-based school located in Clermont uses Bible curriculum from Positive Action for Christ, supplemented with materials from Bob Jones University Press. Learn more at chattahoocheechristian.org.
Academy of Innovation: This Gainesville school offers a personalized approach to teaching children in grades first through 12th, balancing classroom instruction with individualized learning. Learn more at aoiga.com.
Gainesville Homeschool Academy: This K-7 cooperative Christian school meets at the Westminster Presbyterian Church in Gainesville. Classroom instruction is provided three days a week with two more instructional days at home. Learn more at gainesvillehomeschoolacademy. com
AFTER-SCHOOL PROGRAMS
After-school options are offered at most public schools between the YMCA and Boys & Girls Clubs.
YMCA: Offered at several Hall elementary schools for $60 a week for members and $70 for nonmembers, plus a one-time $35 registration fee. Learn more at gamountainsymca.org.
Boys & Girls Clubs of Lanier: Offered in 11 schools and three standalone Clubs in Hall County and Gainesville with a $50 annual registration fee and varying weekly fees from $30-$50, though offered for free at a number of schools and no child is turned away due to an inability to pay. Families can request reduced or waived fees if there is financial hardship. The Club also offers free after-school programs for members of Gainesville middle and high school students at the Teen Center from 2:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. BGCL also offers summer camp from 8:00am to 5:00pm. Learn more at boysgirlsclubs.com.
PRESCHOOL
Georgia Pre-K is offered at several locations throughout Hall County including private day care facilities and elementary schools. For more information, view the list at families.decal.ga.gov. Private pre-K is also offered at numerous locations, including churches and day care facilities in Hall County. Some preschool programs were previously mentioned under the private schools listing. Others include the following:
Gainesville elementary schools including Fair Street, Centennial, New Holland, Enota, Gainesville and Mundy Mill
Hall County elementary schools including Lyman Hall, Chicopee Woods, Sardis, Tadmore, World Language Academy
Joyland Child Development Center, Gainesville and Clermont
First Presbyterian Church Child Development Center, Gainesville
Creative Learners Child Development Center, Gainesville
E.E. Butler Headstart, Gainesville
Gainesville Academy, Gainesville
Magic Years of Learning, Gainesville
Steam Academy of Gainesville
The Academy Child Development Center, Oakwood
Discovery Point No. 65, Flowery Branch
Storybrook Academy, Flowery Branch
YMCA Learning Center, Murrayville
Chestnut Mountain Academy, Flowery Branch
COLLEGES
Brenau University
The private university in the heart of Gainesville includes The Women’s College at Brenau University and four additional colleges that offer degree programs in numerous liberal arts disciplines plus health-related fields such as nursing and occupational and physical therapy. The university was founded in 1878 and includes a 55-acre downtown campus, the Burd Center for the Performing Arts, Pearce Auditorium, five art galleries, and satellite locations such as the Brenau Downtown Center, Brenau East at Featherbone Communiversity and New Holland sports complex. The Lynn J. Darby School of Psychology and Adolescent Counseling occupies the second floor of the Gainesville Renaissance building on the square.
More info: brenau.edu
Lanier Technical College
Hall County’s technical college is part of the Technical College System of Georgia and is located at a 95-acre campus in northeast Hall County on Ga. 365. It offers instruction in numerous degree programs in manufacturing, technology, medical, logistics and other fields. It boasts a 100% job placement rate for graduates. The college also provides free classes, both in preparation for the GED/HiSET exams and in English instruction for non-native speakers.
More info: laniertech.edu
University of North Georgia
UNG has several campuses, including a large Gainesville campus that is technically located in Oakwood. Between all its campuses, the university is one of the largest in the state. The Gainesville campus does not offer traditional dorm living, though several nearby apartment complexes cater to this demand. The university offers many associate and four-year degrees in liberal arts, business, math and science, health and education.
More info: ung.edu
Scott Rogers The Times Brenau University sets up art booths Thursday, April 18, 2024, on the lawn at Pearce Auditorium for the second annual Gainesville Art Walk.
ENJOY LAKE LANIER
Lake Lanier is one of the most visited lakes in the world, with some 12 million enjoying this jewel north of Atlanta each year. The shores are dotted with parks, many with beaches and swim areas. There are also outfitters that will help get you on the water whether on a kayak, personal watercraft or boat. A Boat Rental Education Certificate is required by law and many outfitters offer the course on their websites, so it can be completed prior to arrival.
Lake Lanier Olympic Park
This park, once the site of rowing and paddling events in the 1996 Summer Olympics, is set on the north end of Lake Lanier and features a public boat launch and courtesy docks along with Clarks Bridge Park beach and picnic areas. Canoes, kayaks and standup paddleboards can be rented on the weekends from the Lanier Canoe & Kayak Club. 3105 Clarks Bridge Road, Gainesville lakelanierolympicvenue.org | 855-5361996
Margaritaville at Lanier Islands
This expansive waterpark and resort includes tiki bars and lakeside restaurants, impressive waterslides and a wave pool along with a beach area. During the colder months, Margaritaville transforms into a winter wonderland with its Lakeside Lights Spectacular and activities like snow tubing and ice skating.
At the north end of Lake Lanier, Don Carter State Park offers an abundance of water recreation like swimming, boating, paddleboarding, fishing and kayaking. Those itching to hike have the choice among several short and long trails, including the 1.5-mile Woodland Loop and 1-mile Terrapin Cove Trail.
5000 N. Browning Bridge Road, Gainesville gastateparks.org/doncarter | 678-4507726
River Forks Park
The beach area here is right beside a playground and covered picnic pavilion. There’s also a boat dock and ramp available for use. A daytime pass to access the park is $5 per car.
3500 Keith Bridge Road, Gainesville
Little Hall Park
The beach is tucked beside forested paths dotted with picnic tables and grills. A tiny playground is nearby. There’s also a facility for fishing tournaments across the parking lot from the beach.
3501 Dawsonville Highway, Gainesville
Holly Park
A small beach is open to the public at Holly Park. The space also provides a small boat
ramp and two large pavilions with covered picnic tables and grills. The beach and open water is ideal for spending the day fishing.
2603 Old Thompson Bridge Road, Gainesville
Old Federal Park
To get to this park, you’ll have to travel down a winding road in the woods, but it’s a nice view. There are two beach areas, a boat ramp, a sand volleyball court and benches under the many trees.
6219 Old Federal Road, Flowery Branch
Van Pugh North Park
This park has two beach areas and a pavilion. There is also a playground and swingset for kids to enjoy and a boat ramp.
6838 Gaines Ferry Road, Flowery Branch
PLACES TO VISIT
Jaemor Farms
Thousands flock to this family farm for their large variety of peaches in the summer. In other seasons, the farm offers strawberries, pumpkins and even fresh flowers. Events are often held, including one-day Upick events during each season as well as a corn maze. The market is also worth a visit, featuring a variety of locally made products and foods like soft-serve ice cream and hand pies made with produce from the farm.
Scott Rogers The Times Dragon Boat Festival on Lake Lanier.
RECREATION
Atlanta Botanical Garden, Gainesville
This north campus of the Atlanta Botanical Garden is set on 168 acres of woodlands just north of downtown Gainesville. Stroll past daffodils, hydrangeas, poppies, tulips, camellias and other colorful flowers along with art displays. The park also includes a children’s area and features carnivorous plants, climbing areas, a miniature trolley and water elements.
Better known as INK, this attraction is set up like a small town, with areas where children and their families can play pretend, such as a grocery store, diner and hair salon. The museum also includes a pottery studio, jungle gym and area where children can use foam blocks to bring their imaginations to life. Admission is $9 per person for anyone older than 2.
Corner of Main Street & McClure Drive, Oakwood inkfun.org | 770-536-1900
Mountain Fresh Creamery
Buy a scoop or two of ice cream from the silo at this farm in North Hall. It offers classic flavors like strawberry, chocolate and peaches and cream plus one more special flavor each weekend, all with milk from the local dairy cows. You can also purchase nonhomogenized milk and other local goods from the shop on site.
The artwork appearing in this gallery space is often rotating and includes original art by local artists. There is also a gift shop, classes and workshops. Admission is free, but the center accepts donations.
514 Green St. NE, Gainesville quinlanartscenter.org | 770-536-2575
Road Atlanta
A world-class 2.54-mile road course and site of the Petit Le Mans, one of the nation’s top road-race events.
300 Winder Highway, Braselton roadatlanta.com |
800-849-RACE, 770-967-6143
Chicopee Woods Agricultural Center
This venue hosts events such as rodeos, gardening expos and even llama shows. 1855 Calvary Church Road, Gainesville 770-531-6855
Hall County Library System
The local library system houses five locations, including the two-story downtown Gainesville branch and popular Spout Springs branch in Flowery Branch. The system offers story times and other reading programs. Find more information at hallcountylibrary.org.
Northeast Georgia History Center
This center aims to preserve and share regional history through educational programs, community events, exhibits and historic structures like Chief White Path’s cabin and an exhibit dedicated to the 1936 tornado that decimated downtown Gainesville. 322 Academy St., Gainesville negahc.org | 770-297-5900
SPEND A DAY AT THE PARK
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers operates many of the parks on Lake Lanier. Hall County also has several parks and community centers offering space for recreational sports, fitness classes and other leisure activities. Gainesville and the smaller cities in the county also have some park facilities. Below are some of the most popular parks
away from the lake. For a full list of Hall and Gainesville parks, visit hallcounty.org/308/ Parks-Leisure and gainesville.org/365/Parks.
Frances Meadows Aquatic and Community Center
Features: 10-lane indoor competition pool, a four-lane indoor instructional pool, a small waterpark area with waterslides and a lazy river, fitness and wellness centers, lounge, concessions, locker rooms and a playground. 1545 Community Way, Gainesville gainesville.org/frances-meadows | 770-533-5850
Wilshire Trails Park
Features: Playground, stream, walking trails, butterfly garden and pavilion
849 Wilshire Trails Road, Gainesville
City Park
Features: Ballfields, playgrounds and restrooms
549 Glenwood Drive, Gainesville
North Hall Community Center and Park
Features: Community center, baseball fields, batting cages, a track and a multipurpose field, two gymnasiums, a fitness center, meeting space, technology center, cafe and activity rooms.
4175 Nopone Road, Gainesville
East Hall Community Center and Park
Features: 28,000-square-foot multipurpose community center, track, concession stands
Times File Photo
Frances Meadows Aquatic Center
and restrooms, ballfields, tennis courts, basketball courts, fitness center, indoor elevated walking track, game room, dance room and community meeting rooms.
3911 P Davison Road, Gainesville
Engine 209 Park
Features: Playground, boardwalk, mural, picnic tables and easy access to a historic train built in 1930 and operated until 1959. The train moved from the intersection of Jesse Jewell Parkway and West Academy Street to Midland, where the park is located, in August 2021.
878 Grove St. Gainesville
Midland Greenway
Features: ADA-accessible playground, picnic tables, large grassy areas and access to Highlands to Islands trail.
682 Grove St., Gainesville
Mulberry Creek Community Center and Park
Features: Community center, dog park, playground, basketball courts, fitness center, indoor walking track, dance and meeting rooms.
4491 J M Turk Road, Flowery Branch
Gainesville Skate Park
Features: Bowls, rails and small covered area for viewing.
636 SW High St., Gainesville
Laurel Park
Features: Mega boat ramp, dog park, 1-mile paved walking trail, ballfields, tennis courts, playground, pavilions, splash pad, restrooms and picnic sites.
3100 Old Cleveland Highway, Gainesville
Alberta Banks Park
Features: Tennis courts, ballfields and the Field of Dreams, an ADA-accessible ballfield.
5575 G. C. Crow Road, Flowery Branch
Cherokee Bluffs Park
Features: A 168-acre park with greenspace, streams and trails along the rocky shoals, a small event and meeting space, an amphitheater, pavilion, playground and dog park.
5867 Blackjack Road, Flowery Branch
Mike Little Fields at Allen Creek Soccer Complex
Features: Nine soccer fields on 54 acres, including a 2,500-seat stadium, plus practice
areas, concession and restroom facilities.
2500 Allen Creek Road, Gainesville
TAKE A WALK
Gainesville may be the small urban center of Hall County, but it’s still home to several forested areas with miles of trails. Get some fresh air beneath the trees in one of these intown or nearby destinations.
Elachee Nature Science Center
Elachee is a private, nonprofit environmental education center and museum in the 1,440-acre Chicopee Woods Nature Preserve just south of Gainesville proper. The visitor center features a natural history exhibit, where people can learn more about the history and habitats of the Chicopee Woods. Also featured is a live animal room with 25 species of reptiles and amphibians along with other exhibits. Visitors eager to get outside can trek along 8 miles of walking trails that connect the visitor center campus to Elachee’s Aquatic Studies Center at Chicopee Lake. Pets are not allowed on the trails. There is a $5 daily parking fee for cars.
Nestled in a residential area of Gainesville, this park includes 2 miles of trails that traverse forest and meadow and run alongside creek and lake. The preserve is one of seven community forests of the Old-Growth Forest Network in the United States.
The multi-use Highlands to Islands trail system includes the Midland Greenway and Rock Creek Greenway in Gainesville and a 16-mile trail section running along Friendship Road. Eventually, the trail system will link downtown Gainesville to Flowery Branch, north to south, and Lake Lanier Islands to Braselton, east to west. highlandstoislands.org
HIT THE LINKS
There are numerous golf courses in North Georgia within a short drive for all levels of play and incomes, including five in Hall.
Chattahoochee Golf Club
301 Tommy Aaron Drive, Gainesville, gainesville.org/chattahoochee-golf-course, 770-532-0066
Chateau Elan
100 Rue Charlemagne, Braselton, chateauelan.com, 678-425-6050
Chicopee Woods
2515 Atlanta Highway, Gainesville, chicopeewoodsgolfcourse.com, 770-534-7322
4700 Royal Lakes Drive, Flowery Branch, royallakesgolfcc.com, 770-535-8800
Scott Rogers The Times
Laurel Park in North Hall.
Longstreet Cafe on Riverside Terrace in Gainesville.
LAKESIDE
Skogies
Located inside Gainesville Marina, this restaurant offers outdoor and indoor dining and a menu featuring shrimp, crab and Skogies’ signature grouper sandwich.
Several restaurants are located at the Margaritaville resort, including the Land Shark Bar and Grill for casual American cuisine and the License to Chill Bar for convenient handcrafted beverage options.
This floating tiki bar and grill is open yearround at Port Royale Marina and primarily serves seafood, sandwiches and salads.
8800 Port Royale Drive, Gainesville pelicanpetes.com | 770-887-5715
Pig Tales
This outdoor bar offers classics like pulled pork sandwiches and burgers along with cocktails, frozen drinks and its signature Tales Ale, a Kolsch-style beer with notes of pear, on draft.
Order your gyro or falafel wrap at the counter and be ready for surprisingly vibrant flavors from this Greek-owned restaurant.
215 Jesse Jewell Parkway SE, Gainesville facebook.com/alphagyrogrill | 678-696-8380
Atlanta Highway Seafood Market
This popular seafood joint features Cajun specialties like étouffée, gumbo and po’ boys. The adjoining fish market offers freshly caught seafood including crab, shrimp, scallops, mahi-mahi, gulf snapper and grouper.
227 Atlanta Highway, Gainesville atlantahighwayseafood.com | 770-287-8277
Big Burritos Mexican Grill
Embrace family, mariachi music and loads of flavor at this restaurant. Authentic Mexican dishes and burritos some have described as “the size of an alley cat” await.
Travel back in time at this diner that serves up one of the best hamburgers in town. Sizzling on the flattop in front of you with fries being cooked in oil nearby, a burger at The Collegiate is an American classic.
220 Main St. SW, Gainesville facebook.com/collegiategrill | 678-989-2280
Times File Photo
Easy B’s Market and Cafe
Tucked inside Limestone Place, a mixeduse mercantile and boutique, Easy B’s Market and Cafe offers baked goods and chef-inspired takeaway meals — both ready to eat and takeand-bake — featuring fresh ingredients and flavors from around the world.
Looking for some good ol’ Southern comfort food? Longstreet has you covered. The longtime staple is the place to go if you’re looking for a meat-and-three. Don’t forget your sweet tea and banana pudding.
From unique specialty pizzas like My Honey is Hotter than Yours – topped with fresh mozzarella, pepperoni, Calabrian chilies, red onions, local honey, fresh basil and cilantro – to the mainstays on every pizza lover’s list, Peyton’s Pie Company offers wood-fired pizzas that are sure to satisfy your taste buds and fill your belly.
112 Main St., Gainesville
Smokin’ Mike’s
Meats
Roughly a mile from the Hall/Dawson County line, this hole-in-the-wall takeaway
spot offers small-batch, hickory-smoked pulled pork, barbecue chicken, brisket and baby back ribs, along with rotating specials, house-made sides and desserts like cobbler and banana pudding.
This family-owned cafe and bakery creates a daily buzz inside downtown Gainesville’s Main Street Market. Its menu features an array of straightforward sandwiches, soups, salads and baked goods.
118 Main St. SW, Gainesville 678-862-0254
TRENDY
Avocados
Enjoy your meal at tables along the sunny sidewalk of the Gainesville square or retreat inside to enjoy a fresh burger or skillfully fried chicken tenders.
109 Bradford St. NW, Gainesville avocadoseats.com | 770- 532-0001
Bourbon Brothers Smokehouse & Tavern
Bourbon Brothers features American breakfast, lunch and dinner menus and one of the largest smokers in the region, meaning there’s plenty of brisket, smoked sausage and chicken, baby back ribs and mustard glazed pulled pork in “the pit.” Don’t forget to check out the
bourbon bar upstairs, or the live performances in the music hall.
For a serious burger, or other sandwich for that matter, don’t miss this spot hidden away next to the Interactive Neighborhood for Kids in Gainesville.
The Inked Pig puts its own mark on classic barbecue dishes. On the menu, you can find a barbacoa brisket with chimichurri sauce and sweet tea-smoked chicken along with classic pulled pork and sauces.
893 Main St. SW, Gainesville theinkedpig.com | 678-696-5611
Recess Southern Gastro Pub
Located just off the downtown Gainesville square, this pub offers trendy Southern foods like fried green tomato appetizers and shrimp and grits, along with classic pub fare like burgers and fish and chips.
118 Bradford St. NE, Gainesville recesspub.com | 678-450-0444
The Stag Chophouse
Offering an elevated dining experience; The Stag’s clean and simple American-style dishes include New England crab dip, hot-smoked salmon, pork and lamb chops, filets and ribeyes.
110 Main St. SW, Gainesville chophouseandclub.com | 470-252-5016
Standard Service
A former fueling station turned gastropub offers 50 self-serve beers, pub fare, snacks and shareables. The family-owned restaurant serves lunch and dinner throughout the week and brunch on Saturdays and Sundays.
This contemporary fusion restaurant specializes in Latin-Asian cuisine inspired by the Los Angeles food truck scene and the travels of chef Scott Kinsey.
106 Spring St., Gainesville taqueriatsunami.com
Zen Ramen & Sushi Burrito
The only Japanese restaurant in downtown Gainesville serves up its namesake. 115 Washington St. NE, Gainesville 678-696-5739
Scott Rogers The Times Peyton’s Pie Company
DINING
FINE DINING
Antebellum
Experience fine dining in Flowery Branch by visiting Antebellum, which resides in an 1890s style home in the city’s historic district. The restaurant offers a seasonal menu with ingredients from local farms, as well as traditional American dishes with a gourmet twist.
5510 Church St., Flowery Branch antebellumrestaurant.com | 770-965-8100
The Chattahoochee Grill
Located inside the Chattahoochee Golf Club, which is open to the public, many of The Chattahoochee Grill’s dishes have a Southern touch, some with an Asian leaning — a nod to chef Rand Carswell’s time in South Florida.
301 Tommy Aaron Drive, Gainesville chattahoocheegrill.com | 770-532-1173
Consuelo
Authentic Mexican cuisine, curated cocktails and a unique dining experience collide under one roof at Consuelo, so named for the late grandmother of co-owner Pepe Perez, who brandished superb cooking skills and left behind a collection of beloved family recipes that were regularly savored around her 16-seat dining room table. The restaurant’s menu is curated from many of those recipes.
Boasting flavors of the Old World and a sophisticated dining experience, Cotto offers traditional Italian dishes running the gamut from risottos and grilled meats to classic pastas and gnocchi, meatballs, steamed mussels and wood-fired, Neapolitan-style pizzas along with Italian-inspired cocktails and roughly 50 wines.
106 Spring St., Gainesville cottoitalian.com | 678-310-2071
Luna’s
This mainstay located in the Hunt Tower off the Gainesville square features a refined dining experience and a traditionally American menu with dishes such as grilled pork chop with whipped sweet potatoes or salmon with basmati rice and vegetables.
200 Main St. SW, Gainesville lunas.com | 770-531-0848
Sizzling Spices
Opened in May of 2024, Sizzling Spices offers a taste of India with a modern twist. From a traditional biryani dish topped with lamb
shanks to a unique version of butter chicken, this fine dining experience will have you wanting to try everything on the menu.
317 Spring St., Gainesville sizzlingspicesgainesville.com | 770-287-8384
AUTHENTIC FLAVORS
Along Atlanta Highway, restaurants with authentic Mexican, Dominican and Salvadorian flavors have been serving the residents of Gainesville for more than two decades. While some are well-known for their unique flavors, others are among the city’s best-kept secrets.
La Mejor de Michoacan
If you’re turning off Pearl Nix Parkway, you won’t miss this bright yellow building. The ice cream shop makes popsicles in-house each day, concocting flavors like guava, tequila, rice pudding, tamarind, chocolate, vanilla, strawberry, cookies and cream and coconut.
403 Atlanta Highway, Gainesville lamejordemichoacan.net | 770-534-0610
El Carreton
Since 1994, El Carreton has been serving authentic tacos, burritos, tortas and quesadillas. Their self-proclaimed “best tortas in the universe” are filled with your choice of meat or a vegetarian option and a variety of toppings.
608 Atlanta Highway, Gainesville elcarretongainesville.com | 770-535-2665
El Salvador Bakery and Pupuseria
This restaurant sells a variety of sweet breads and semitas, which are filled with cheese, guava or pineapple. As their name suggests, the restaurant also offers savory corn and rice pupusas filled with cheese, beans, squash or your choice of meat. Fresh-made tamales and empanadas are also available daily. 1403 Atlanta Highway, Gainesville facebook.com/El-Salvador-Bakery-YPupuseria | 678-971-5868
Marisquería Playa Azul Seafood and Grill
Among many things, the restaurant offers a choice of fish on a bed of rice, alongside a salad and a wide selection of margaritas, micheladas and bloody Marys. 1736 Atlanta Highway, Gainesville playaazul-seafoodrestaurant.business.site | 678-943-2891
El Caldero
Dominican Restaurant
El Caldero brings authentic Dominican cuisine to Gainesville’s table. Their menu offers a selection of main dishes, sides and desserts, but it’s the appetizers that steal the show. 2550 Atlanta Highway, Suite 900, Gainesville elcalderogainesville.com | 678-943-8986
Times File Photo
Diners visit Sweet Magnolias in downtown Gainesville for lunch.
BREWERY/TAPROOM
These places showcase the diverse and growing craft beer scene in North Georgia. Each offers a unique experience, so whether you’re a connoisseur or just looking for a refreshing drink, these spots are worth a visit.
Tap It Gainesville Pints & Growlers
A taproom featuring a rotating selection of local and regional craft beers available for pints and growler fills.
110 Maple St, Gainesville, GA tapitgrowler.square.site | 678-421-3312
NOFO Brew Co.
A brewery and taproom offering a variety of craft beers in a casual setting.
434 High St SE, Gainesville, GA 30501
WINERIES
Chateau Elan
As one of the largest wineries on the East Coast, Chateau Elan has carved a path for itself in Georgia’s wine industry. The winery has crafted over 30 wines with grapes grown in Braselton, southern Georgia vineyards and California’s Lake County and Clarksburg regions. Open daily, Chateau Elan in Braselton invites guests to delve deeper into the wine-making process with a behind-the-scenes tour.
100 Rue Charlemagne Drive, Braselton chateauelan.com | 678-425-0900
Cloudland Vineyards and Winery
This winery in South Hall County highlights the lomanto grape, which can produce a bright and complex red wine. The menu also includes white and rosé wines.
3796 North Bogan Road, Buford facebook.com/cloudlandwines
Times File Photo
Cloudland Vineyards and Winery
HEALTH CARE
HEALTH CARE
Hospitals
Northeast Georgia Medical Center Gainesville
Northeast Georgia Medical Center Braselton
Urgent care
Longstreet Clinic, Gainesville
Northeast Georgia Physicians Group, Gainesville
Peachtree Immediate Care, Oakwood
Lanier Urgent Care, Gainesville
Guilford Immediate Care, Gainesville
Family medicine
Northeast Georgia Physicians Group, several locations in Hall
Northeast Georgia Diagnostic Clinic, Gainesville and Braselton
Longstreet Clinic Internal Medicine, several locations in Hall
Northside Gainesville Imaging, Gainesville
Pediatrics
Pediatric Associates, Gainesville and Braselton
Longstreet Clinic Pediatrics, Gainesville
Kid’s Health at Sherwood Park, Gainesville
Greenwillow Pediatrics, Gainesville
Dental
BGW Dental Group, Gainesville and Braselton
Clarkson Family Dentistry, Gainesville
Dental Care of Flowery Branch, Flowery Branch
Dentista Familiar, Gainesville
Gainesville Dental Group, Gainesville
GDC Smiles, Gainesville
Grace Family Dentistry, Gainesville
Hawkins Family Dental, Gainesville
Hulsey Dentistry, Gainesville
Kids Dentistry of North Georgia, Gainesville and Flowery Branch
Kwon Samuel S DDS, Flowery Branch
Lanier Dental Group, Gainesville
Legacy Family Dentistry, Gainesville
Lifetime Dental of Gainesville, Gainesville
McRae Dental Associates, Gainesville
Mundy Mill Dental, Oakwood
Oakwood Family Dental, Oakwood
Oakwood Smiles, Oakwood
Robson Crossing Family and Cosmetic Dentistry, Oakwood
Royal Lakes Family and Cosmetic Dentistry, Oakwood
