Situated in Northeast Georgia, the city of Gainesville is rich in history, culture and natural beauty. What started off as “Mule Creek Springs,” the village situated around two crossing Native American trails that were frequented by settlers in the 1800s, eventually became the city that we know and love today. In 1821, Mule Creek Springs’ name was changed to Gainesville in honor of the War of 1812 veteran Edmund Gaines. Nestled along the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the shores of Lake Lanier, Gainesville has much to offer day trippers. Today, the city is bustling with locally owned restaurants, small businesses, shops and festive annual events. Whether you live in the neighborhood, or you’re just passing through, we hope you enjoy these must-see spots!
- Meadowlark
Get your caffeine fix at local favorite Meadowlark Coffee, situated in a cozy corner downtown. Meadowlark offers a rotating menu of beans from small business roasteries with an atmosphere that is sure to brighten your day. Elevate your coffee experience by signing up for one of Meadowlark’s Cupping Classes, where you can savor the flavors of a variety of roasted beans. Check their social media for their current pastry selection and seasonal drink menu. meadowlarkcoffee.shop
- Phillips Trading Company
Shop Phillips Trading Company downtown to give your house a facelift. As soon as you step foot in the storefront, you are hit with the crisp scent of new furniture to get you in the home improvement mood. Phillips Trading Company offers a wonderful blend of timeless furniture and trendy wall art that is sure to please a variety of styles. Browse their selection of furniture, home decor, lamps, candles, wall art, seasonal decor and more. phillipstradingco.com
- Boot Barn Hall at Bourbon Brothers Barbeque
Follow the smell of slow roasted barbeque to Gainesville’s very own live music venue, Boot Barn Hall at Bourbon Brothers, where events include dueling piano performances, comedy shows, tribute bands, and more.
Located in the same building is Bourbon Brothers Smokehouse and Bourbon Bar, so you can grab a bite or a drink before your show. If you’re stopping in for a pre-show meal, try the coffee and cocoa rubbed sliced brisket with honey jalapeno cornbread and smoked mozzarella mac and cheese on the side. This meal pairs nicely with the Local Flight, which includes any three Georgia-made libations of your choice from an extensive whiskey menu. Be sure to check out the Sinatra Experience featuring Ryan Davis and His Big Band Orchestra: Christmas Celebration on Dec. 20 and a Special Evening with Country Legend Pam Tillis on Jan. 9 this season. bootbarnhallga.com
- Elachee Nature Science Center Get some fresh air at the Elachee Nature Science Center by hiking the trails of the Chicopee Woods Nature Preserve, which is one of Georgia’s largest and most ecologically diverse green spaces at more than 1,400 acres. The nature preserve has 12 miles of hiking trails, including one with a 140-foot suspension bridge over Walnut Creek. elachee.org
- Hello Hilo
Be sure to say Aloha to Hello Hilo, the first Georgia location of this Hawaiian fast-casual eatery boasting treats for breakfast, lunch and dinner at its lively restaurant. Try the Lava Steak Bulgogi Noodle Bowl or a Teriyaki Steak sandwich, and be sure to indulge your sweet tooth with a glazed Mochi donut or a famed Hawaiian Shave Ice. There is plenty to entertain the “keikis” (kids) with its fantastic outdoor patio.
- Quinlan Visual Arts Center
Get inspired at Quinlan Visual Arts Center as you peruse one rotating exhibits and support the local arts. This nonprofit organization provides art education to students of all ages and experience levels. Don’t miss the Winter Exhibition, which runs from Dec. 12 through Feb. 8. Admission is free to the public.
quinlanartscenter.org
- Garment and Grace
Revamp your wardrobe at Garment and Grace Boutique, located downtown. Shop their carefully curated pieces for the most fashionable women’s styles including jumpsuits and rompers, tops, bottoms, dresses, shoes, accessories and more. They also have a selection of boy’s and girl’s styles so your little ones can be just as fashion forward as you! garmentandgrace.com
- Atlanta Botanical Gardens
Atlanta Botanical Gardens is well-known and loved in Atlanta’s Midtown neighborhood, but the Gainesville location is a hidden gem. While smaller than the Atlanta location, this garden still packs quite the punch with rotating displays, an event space, and beautifully cultivated grounds. Check their website calendar for upcoming events and special displays.
atlantabg.org/gainesville-garden
- Tap It Beers and Growlers
Thirsty after a long day of exploring Gainesville? Stop by Tap It Beers and Growlers for an afternoon pick-me-up. Select a refreshing beverage from a menu of craft beer, wine and Champagne, and play a round of pool while you’re there. Don’t forget to take in the city from the rooftop bar space. Check out their website and social media page for information on upcoming events, including live music performances and karaoke nights.
tapitgrowler.square.site
- Gainesville Seafood Market and Eatery
Whether grabbing fresh seafood to boil at your lake house rental or dining in-house on its scrumptious seafood platters, this restaurant and market is a local favorite, even winning the 2024 Small Business of the Year Award from Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce. From seafood boils with all the fixins’ to fried or grilled fish plates, tasty tacos scrumptious sandwiches and soul satisfying soups, you won’t want to miss a meal at this local seafood lovers’ gem. gainesvilleseafoodmkt.com
