Hall County is Northeast Georgia’s center for industry, health care, education, banking and culture, located 45 miles northeast of Atlanta, the South’s largest city. Interstate 985 connects Hall County to Interstate 85, providing ease of transportation and accessibility to markets. Residents have easy, quick access to the University of Georgia in Athens, as well as Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, Emory University and Georgia Tech in Atlanta.
The Gainesville-Hall County Community Magazine is produced by the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce. This edition was produced in October 2024 and some information may have changed since publication. We welcome your recommendations for future issues. Call 770-532-6206 or visit us at greaterhallchamber.com
The Boathouse at Lake Lanier Olympic Park was completed in early 2024. It features exposed barrel ceilings, an outdoor covered terrace with a fireplace, 18,000 square-feet of conference space, event seating, dedicated on-site parking, a catering kitchen with commercial amenities, a ballroom that can seat up to 400 people and “amazing sunset views” of Lake Lanier. The venue serves as permanent home to the Lanier Canoe and Kayak Club, an annual contender in national and international competitions, and the Lake Lanier Rowing Club.
Boathouse at Lake Lanier Olympic
Butler Park Spray Ground
Col. James Roberts Cabin
Lake Sidney Lanier County Bike Trails
Gainesville-Hall County WELCOME TO
So what’s your pleasure? Because there’s a good chance that whatever you’re looking for, you can find it in Gainesville-Hall County.
If you enjoy lake living, Georgia’s largest body of water, 38,000-acre Lake Lanier, hugs 700 miles of shoreline, much of it in Hall. Dozens of parks, boat ramps and campsites are dotted along its shores, including Lanier Islands resort, Don Carter State Park and Lake Lanier Olympic Park, site of the rowing and canoe-kayak events from the 1996 Atlanta Centennial Olympic Games.
Prefer the mountains? Just to the north, you’ll find the foothills of the Appalachians and the Chattahoochee National Forest, offering hundreds of miles
of hiking, biking, camping and scenic locales.
Closer to home, there is a Gainesville campus of the Atlanta Botanical Garden with its winding paved trails through woodland scenes and past flowering plants, and just south of town is the Elachee Nature Science Center with miles of hiking and cycling and a focus on conservation. Are you more of a fan of urban cultured life? The Arts Council provides musical performances, and the Quinlan Visual Arts Center and local universities feature galleries of artwork. Museums add to the offerings with their share of history, science and education.
Higher learning universities, including the University of North Georgia, Brenau
University and Lanier Technical College, act as economic engines and bring additional learning and cultural opportunities for neighboring residents.
If your preference is dining and shopping, town squares in Gainesville and other municipalities include an array of locally owned shops, restaurants and services within a short stroll.
All this and more is available an hour’s drive from Atlanta and Athens, epicenters for pro and college sports fans and with more cultural offerings and the world’s busiest international airport.
Hall County has a population reaching 250,000 as one of Georgia’s fastest growing, most diverse and successful counties. The area’s jobless rate has ranked among the state’s lowest for years, sparked by a diverse economic base that includes agriculture, manufacturing, tourism and health care services as the largest employers. Additional housing is coming online including both single-family and apartment residences. Whether you’re looking to relocate or just visit, there is no better place to spend your time than GainesvilleHall County, Georgia.
Downtown Gainesville
Hospit
The City of Gainesville bears several nicknames, but one in particular divulges all you need to know about this vibrant Northeast Georgia lake community – “Hospitality Capital of the World”. Named one of the fastest-growing metropolitan areas in the United States, Gainesville sets the bar high when it comes to economic development, and continues to lead by example in arts and culture, education and healthcare, while regularly attracting new business and industry. Gainesville also serves as a regional destination for those seeking the best in entertainment; restaurants, retailers and tasting rooms; recreational opportunities (on or o the lake) and more. To learn the ins and outs of Gainesville, visit gainesville.org.
Lake Sidney Lanier and the rolling foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains provide a swoon-worthy backdrop for Gainesville’s many annual events and o erings. From concert series on the historic square in downtown Gainesville to Food Truck Fridays at Lake Lanier Olympic Park, the good times are always rolling in Gainesville. Fall brings some of the “Poultry Capital of the World’s” biggest events of the year: Gainesville Chicken Festival (October), Jingle Mingle and the Lighting of the Chicken (November) and Christmas on Green Street (December). In addition to regionally attended events, Gainesville o ers top-tier attractions and world-class event venues like The Boathouse at Lake Lanier and Chattahoochee Golf Club, which welcome collegiate, professional and Olympic athletes for sporting events throughout the year. There’s no question Gainesville is the place to live, work, play and stay. To explore all these o erings and more, visit exploregainesville.org.
ality Capital GAINESVILLE WORLDOFTHE
AT-A-GLANCE
Gainesville-Hall County
Located 45 minutes north of Atlanta and just south of the Appalachian Mountains, Hall County offers the perfect mix of natural beauty and economic opportunity for residents and visitors alike. Hall is bordered on its west side by Lake Lanier. The county’s 393-mile area includes eight cities — Gainesville, Flowery Branch, Oakwood, Lula, Clermont, Gillsville, Braselton and Buford.
HALL COUNTY
Area: 393.7 square miles
Founded: 1818, named for Dr. Lyman Hall, signer of the Declaration of Independence and later governor of Georgia.
County seat: Gainesville Government: Five-member Board of Commissioners elected by district, with elected chairman; four-year terms.
DEMOGRAPHICS
• Population: 250,000
• Total housing units: 83,250
• High school graduate or higher: 81.1%
• Median household income: $64,165
BUSINESS, LABOR
• Number of paid employees: 111,800
• Workforce: 114,608
• Number of employer establishments: 5,820
TRANSPORTATION
Major highways
• Interstate 985/GA 365, connects with I-85 at Suwanee
• Interstate 85, south to Atlanta, north to Charlotte, N.C.
• GA 400, connects Atlanta to Cumming, Dahlonega
CLIMATE
Average high temperature: 69.7 F
Average low temperature: 50 F
Average temperature: 59.85 F
Average summer
RAIL
• Passenger: Amtrak Crescent, 116 Industrial Blvd., Gainesville, GA 30501, 800-872-7245, Opened 1910. amtrak.com/stations/gns
• Lee Gilmer Memorial Airport, 1137 Aviation Way, Gainesville, GA 30501, Code: GVL, 770-5324136, gainesville.org/lee-gilmermemorial-airport. Opened 1941. Consists of two runways, 4,001 feet and 5,500 feet long, with Medium Intensity Approach Lighting System and Instrument Landing System. Champion Aviation is the Airport Fixed Base Operator providing fueling, tie-down spaces and shared corporate aircraft storage. Lanier Flight Center provides flight training. Lanier Flight Center also provides self-serve 100LL aircraft fueling.
• Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport, 62 miles, accessible via I-985 to I-85 South.
MOTOR FREIGHT/LOGISTICS
More than 75 trucking companies serve the Gainesville-Hall County area.
Gainesville Renaissance
Hall respects its past with an eye on the future
Situated just north of Atlanta, Gainesville-Hall County offers the best of many worlds.
A growing population provides energy to the region that’s long been a hub for industry. Gainesville-Hall County’s designation as a metropolitan statistical area illustrates how the area’s growing, tax-diverse economy offers many jobs for people in Northeast Georgia.
Area Development Magazine included Gainesville-Hall County among its cities for “Year-After-Year Growth.” Area Development and CNBC named Gainesville, along with the rest of the state, the best place to do business.
That diverse business community includes health care, as Gainesville serves as a nexus for medical care in the region. Food processing largely focused in the poultry industry gives the city of Gainesville the accolade of “Poultry Capital of the World.”
Manufacturing, health care, service and tourism also play large roles in the county economy.
Lake Lanier hugs much of the county’s border, offering beauty and tourism opportunities along with a key source of water for the entire region.
Proximity to the Appalachian foothills provides the region with a distinct identity and pace separate from that of metro Atlanta.
The region is steeped in history. From the Native Americans and early settlers who once lived among the rolling hills to the thriving population in the metro area today, Gainesville-Hall County has been a regional transportation and trade center for two centuries since Hall County was formed in 1818 and Gainesville was chartered in 1821.
During the 19th century, Gainesville-Hall experienced economic booms created by the 1829 Georgia gold rush, the coming of the Atlanta
and Charlotte Air Line Railroad in 1871 and Gainesville’s fame as the great health resort in the south due to area springs. Hall County’s fertile fields also grew the area as an agricultural leader, especially for cotton.
Gainesville-Hall County’s 20th century economy was driven by the textile, lumber and poultry industries. That century also saw the Army Corps of Engineers build Lake Lanier in the 1950s, home to the canoe/kayak and rowing events during the 1996 Atlanta Centennial Olympic games.
While Gainesville-Hall County’s population continues to increase, the area embraces a rich cultural heritage and small-town Southern charm.
A thriving economy, high quality of life and abundant recreational opportunities offer Gainesville-Hall County residents, businesses and visitors a dynamic and progressive environment that is rich in amenities, opportunities and scenic beauty.
Lake Lanier
Gainesville-Hall County COMMUNITIES
GAINESVILLE
Population: 50,000
Government: Five-member City Council and elected mayor
As Hall’s county seat, Gainesville serves as the business, government and cultural center of the region even as the county’s other cities have grown and developed their own identities. A surge in residential and commercial growth has pushed the city’s population past 47,000, with further expansion expected in the coming decade. Gainesville began as a small trading village called Mule Camp Springs. The city charter was founded in 1821, the city named for Edmund P. Gaines, a general in the War of 1812.
Gainesville has suffered its share of triumph and tragedy over the years but has bounced back strong each
time. Following a deadly tornado in 1936, President Franklin Roosevelt visited Gainesville to witness the devastation and returned two years later to find a city rebuilt and renewed. That spirit of renewal has continued over the years in a city now known for its commercial and business success, manufacturing, the arts and a vibrant downtown square bustling with shops and restaurants to entice visitors.
The downtown square is growing with a mixed-use development, Gainesville Renaissance, that brings restaurants, retail and office space as well condominiums. The development also expands Brenau University’s presence on the square with a new psychology school in addition to other health care programs offered in the neighboring Brenau Downtown
Center.
Everly, another notable housing development recently locating in downtown Gainesville includes 400 apartments and more retail and restaurant space near the end of a pedestrian bridge that is the gateway from downtown into the city’s midtown area.
Midland Gainesville has been characterized as an industrial area in the past but is now seeing residential and business growth. The Midland Greenway, a multi-use path winding through the area, is part of the Highlands to Islands Trail, a planned countywide trail network.
The city also has plans for more affordable housing. Gainesville received a $2.5 million grant from the Rural Workforce Housing Initiative to
Artwalk, Downtown Gainesville
make drainage infrastructure improvements so that affordable housing can be built near Marler Street. The city also started work on 120 apartments as part of Harrison Village, an affordable housing complex that will replace Harrison Square, an aging public housing community off Athens Highway in Gainesville.
Along Gainesville’s historic Green Street, nestled amid a canopy of towering trees, are historic homes that are now the site of many businesses. The entrance to the historic drive is marked by Brenau University’s bronze tiger “Lucile” and Luminary 830 “flame in the wind” sculptures.
Gainesville became known on the world stage during the 1996 Atlanta Centennial Olympic Games, when NBC sportscaster Charlie Jones christened the city as “the hospitality capital of the world.”
Arts and entertainment enthusiasts may enjoy a night with the actors and actresses of the Gainesville Theatre Alliance or visit the Quinlan Visual Arts Center’s exhibits.
The Northeast Georgia History Center, the Historic Piedmont Hotel, founded by Confederate Gen. James Longstreet, and the Elachee Nature Science Center offer a touch of the past and a view of nature.
300 Henry Ward Way, Suite 303 770-535-6860, gainesville.org
BRASELTON
Population: 15,550
Government: Four-member city council and elected mayor
Braselton spans four counties, Barrow, Gwinnett, Hall and Jackson. This quirky characteristic is observed by a monument in the Mulberry Riverwalk park where the four counties converge. The park also offers a walking path, picnic area and gardens.
The town has experienced tremendous growth in recent years, especially on Old Winder Highway/Ga. 211, Friendship Road/Ga. 347 and Spout Springs Road. Housing has led the boom, with retirement communities and townhomes being built. Also, much of the growth, including medical offices
and restaurants, has been spurred by Northeast Georgia Medical Center Braselton off Friendship Road. Other commercial growth includes a proposed 95,000-square-foot covered boat and RV storage development.
Visitors can enjoy a road race at Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta, ride a trolley around town or hike the Jackson County geocaching heritage trail. Château Élan resort attracts more than half a million visitors per year to its award-winning winery, inn, spa, golf courses and fine dining.
Downtown Braselton hosts an art camp throughout the summer, a farmer’s market and other special events. There is also a park nearby that has a playground, a pavilion and tennis courts.
4982 Ga. Highway 53 706-654-3915, braselton.net
BUFORD
Population: 18,300
Government: Three-member Board of Commissioners and city manager
Buford sits on the Hall-Gwinnett line with residents, employees and students from both counties. Founded in 1872 as a railroad depot, it sits at the southern tip of Lake Lanier at Buford Dam and along the key arteries of Interstates 985 and 85 between Gainesville and Atlanta.
This past spring, a new Hall County fire station, No. 17, was opened in Buford. It’s located at 5719 Holiday Road.
Buford also operates an independent school system, with the Buford High Wolves claiming numerous state sports championships. Buford High School opened in a 50-acre, $85 million campus in 2019.
The 25-acre Buford City Park includes tennis and basketball courts, as well as baseball, softball and soccer fields. The Buford Community Center includes 5,700 square feet of banquet and meeting space, as well as a 274-seat theater.
Government: Five-member Town Council and elected mayor
Clermont was originally known as “Dip” and dates back to 1820. It was founded as a town in 1913. It celebrates its history in its annual Clermont Days festival each fall, which includes vendors, a parade, live music and fireworks.
For more than a century, Clermont served as an educational hub. In 1901, the Chattahoochee School was established offering boarding in the nearby dormitory.
The cornerstone was from the original dormitory built in 1905, according to the Clermont Historical Society. A school bell from the early 1900s now occupies a brick tower overlooking the town plaza.
109 King St. 770-983-7568, clermontga.com
FLOWERY BRANCH
Population: 11,610
Government: Five-member City Council and elected mayor
Founded in 1874, Flowery Branch celebrates 150 years. Located less than an hour northeast of Atlanta, the small town still delivers the perks of small town life with the conveniences of a large city. Privately owned restaurants, a few antique shops and several parks and major retailers are nearby.
The small town is one of only 32 in the nation that can claim it is home to a National Football League team’s headquarters.
The Atlanta Falcons’ training facility is in Flowery Branch and open to visitors during preseason training camp, which begins in July.
Downtown Flowery Branch offers a museum tour of a historic train caboose, late 1800s style architecture, shop-
ping and a few eateries. Antebellum Restaurant offers contemporary Southern food, locally grown ingredients and fine dining. Fish Tales Lakeside Grill is located near downtown on the lake, offering fresh seafood, a full service bar and a view of Lake Lanier.
The city’s downtown is going through a renaissance, with new housing, a farmers market pavilion and new city park. One side of Main Street between Railroad Avenue and Church Street was torn down in 2019. The old buildings have been replaced by a twostory retail and apartment complex.
New neighborhoods also are springing up off McEver Road, and an apartment complex-retail project is up and coming off Phil Niekro Boulevard near Interstate 985.
Flowery Branch’s continued growth rate has made the town desirable to major corporations such as Mars Wrigley.
And where did it get its unique name? Cherokee Indians settling in the area referred to it by a name pronounced “Nattagaska,” translated as “Blossom Creek,” and later changed to “Flowery Branch.”
City Hall, 5517 Main St., 770-967-6371 flowerybranchga.org
OAKWOOD
Population: 6,415
Government: Five-member City Council and elected mayor
The name of the town stems from the use of oak wood for train fuel during the 1800s, and active railroads still
Flowery Branch
GAINESVILLE
run through Oakwood’s backyard.
Over the past few decades, Oakwood has grown into a thriving community with over 60 percent of growth in the last 15 years. Since then, businesses such as King’s Hawaiian along with restaurants and retailers have migrated to the small town in large numbers.
City leaders plan for a growing population with a vision for the town’s future called Oakwood 2030, which would offer a neighborhood village and a commercial center for the community.
The city has been a haven for industrial growth, which is likely to continue with the opening of a new interstate exit. Otherwise, the city is intentionally trying to increase its housing stock, with projects scattered around the city, including student housing around the University of North Georgia’s Gainesville campus.
Historically, Oakwood was the home of the Oakwood Academy and the city continues this tradition of higher learning today as home of the UNG, an expanding campus of 8,000 students
and home to an annual international film festival.
City Hall, 4035 Walnut Circle, 770-534-2365, cityofoakwood.net
GILLSVILLE
Population: 290 Government: Five-member City Council and elected mayor
The small East Hall town is known for its ties to pottery. Its iconic Hewell’s Pottery shop began operating in 1850 as a family venture that continued over the years and is celebrated in an annual festival. It is believed to be one of the county’s first settlements, dating back to the late 1700s.
It was originally known as Stonethrow and Cotter’s Store before taking on the name of its first postmaster, Isaiah Gill, in 1832.
City Hall, 6288 Ga. Highway 52, 770-869-9000, townofgillsville.com
LULA
Population: 3,100 Government: Five-member City
Council and elected mayor
Lula spans two counties, Hall and Banks, but most of the town’s residents live in Hall County. The town has a total area of 2.8 square miles and was incorporated in 1876. Once a railroad hub, its antique depot along the tracks serves as a landmark and link to its past as a key stop between Athens and Atlanta. The town was named for the daughter of railroad engineer Ferdinand Phinizy, although she spelled her name as “Lulah.”
The city recently renovated its downtown depot to become an event space available for rent to community members. Although the building was established as a community center, not a railroad depot, it has become known as “the depot” because it sits along the city’s railroad tracks.
Lula draws crowds to the city’s quaint downtown during its Railroad Days festival each spring and annual Fall Festival.
City Hall, 6055 Main St., 770-869-3801, cityoflula.com
Southern hospitality in the heart of Downtown
NEW! Modern, versatile event venue
Bring your corporate or private event to the Braselton Civic Center, opened in 2022. It offers a variety of spaces to accommodate large or small events.
Amenities include a state-of-the-art audio-visual system, full-service in-house catering with commercial kitchen, and a green room or bridal dressing room, and more.
Small-town charm
Less than an hour from the hustle and bustle of Atlanta, but a world away, Downtown Braselton is the perfect setting with restaurants, shopping, and yearround events, all within walking distance. Or rent the Braselton Trolley for access to area attractions and shuttle services for your party.
JONATHAN PHILLIPS PHOTOGRAPHY
Georgia’s Great Lake LAKE LANIER
Lake Sidney Lanier attracts over 12 million visitors a year for boating, swimming, fishing, watersports, camping, picnics and other activities in the dozens of parks along its shoreline. It’s also home to thousands of part-time and full-time residents who have built impressive homes by the lakeshore.
The lake is a three-time recipient of the Army Corps of Engineers’ prestigious “Best Operated Lake of the Year” award, reflecting the quality of the maintenance and preservation of the lake and its environments.
Though the lake also touches Gwinnett, Forsyth, Dawson and Lumpkin counties, most of its waters and shore are in Hall County, and it serves as the signature destination and a key economic engine for the county.
Only 45 minutes from Atlanta, it offers family recreation at its 46 parks and 100 small islands, as well as upscale resort living.
HISTORY
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers created Lake Sidney Lanier from farmland and valleys after building Buford Dam in 1956. It reached full pool three years later and since has served as a source of recreation, flood protection, navigation, hydropower, fish and wildlife management and drinking water for millions of Georgians.
PARKS, RECREATION
The corps manages 46 parks and 76 recreational areas along the lakeshore that offer boat ramps, fishing, swimming, camping, hiking, picnic areas and
other family activities. Hall County Parks & Leisure also manages River Forks Park & Campground. Gainesville Parks & Recreation includes Longwood Park, new J. Melvin Cooper Youth Sports Complex and Lanier Point Park on Lake Lanier. In addition, 10 marinas provide boat slips, fueling stations and restaurants for visitors enjoying a day on the lake.
Sam.usace.army.mil
LANIER ISLANDS
Lanier Islands, a world-class 1,500acre resort on the shores of Lake Lanier, is located 15 minutes from Gainesville and only 45 minutes from Atlanta.
The resort is a vast paradise of sunfilled enjoyment. Whether it’s a game of golf, lounging on the white sandy
Dragon Boat Race
beach, strolling along paved trails, challenging your family to some gamenight-fun or taking a refreshing dip in the saltwater pool at Legacy Lodge, there’s something for everyone. Lanier Islands is home to the Margaritaville Fins Up waterpark in the summer and embraces winter with snow tubing and ice skating at Snow Island. The resort boasts a host of lakeside restaurants, lake view bars, and family-friendly accommodations.
Accommodations include the 221room Legacy Lodge, six-bedroom lakeside Villas, 30 lake houses and two campgrounds featuring both tent and RV sites. The resort features a golf course and Margaritaville, which includes the Fins Up water park, a variety of restaurants and a RV resort.
Georgia’s only state park on Lake Lanier opened in 2013, spanning 1,316 acres while offering cottages, trailer
The Boathouse at Lake Lanier Olympic Park
Don Carter State Park
and tent campsites, picnic shelters, boat ramps, docks, a sand beach and playground and a gift shop. Visitors can rent kayaks, paddleboards and aqua cycles, hike four miles of trails and fish along the lakeshore.
5000 North Browning Bridge Road, Gainesville, 678-450-7726
800-864-7275
gastateparks.org/DonCarter
LAKE LANIER OLYMPIC PARK
The world learned of Lanier’s beauty when it was featured as the venue for rowing and canoe/kayak events in the 1996 Atlanta Centennial Olympic Games.
Olympic organizers created a facility at Clarks Bridge Park on the northern end of the lake that includes a boathouse, timing tower and grandstands. The lake is celebrated by competitors and visitors alike as one of the best competitive sprint venues for rowing, canoeing and kayaking and has continued to draw events and athletes ever since. It remains the most active
venue from the 1996 Games still used for its original purpose and serves as host to several national and international events, including the National Canoe/Kayak Championships (1997, 2011, 2014, 2019), the National Rowing Championships (2010, 2011, 2014, 2015, 2019), the 2016 Pan American Championships, U.S. and Canadian Team Trials (2016, 2017), the ICF Dragon Boat World Championships (2018), the American Collegiate Rowing Association national championship (2018, 2019) and the American Canoe Association’s Canoe/ Kayak Sprint National Championships (2019).
The Boathouse at Lake Lanier Olympic Park offers a unique and welcoming waterfront experience with breathtaking views overlooking beautiful Lake Lanier. Built upon a foundation steeped in rich history and legacy, the $17 million project involved building a new facility to serve as an event center and storage area for team equipment. The Boathouse towers over
‘SONG OF THE CHATTAHOOCHEE’
By Sidney Lanier
■ First published in 1877
■ An ode to the river that flows through Georgia and now fills the state’s largest lake, 38,000 acres and almost 700 miles of shoreline.
Out of the hills of Habersham, Down the valleys of Hall, I hurry amain to reach the plain,
Run the rapid and leap the fall,
Split at the rock and together again,
Accept my bed, or narrow or wide, And flee from folly on every side
With a lover’s pain to attain the plain
Far from the hills of Habersham, Far from the valleys of Hall.
Paddleboarding on Lake Lanier
678.318.2027
DON’T MISS OUT!
your Business Events
Convenient Location: Easily accessible, 45 minutes from Atlanta.
Professional Staff: Dedicated team to ensure a seamless experience.
Exceptional Amenities: Luxury accommodations, and on-site dining.
State-of-the-Art Facilities: Ballrooms and outdoor options.
Team Building Activities: Professionally led team events.
Customized Packages: Include meals, A/V, lodging and more.
Scenic Surroundings: Lakeside resort surrounded with nature.
Olympic waters that have been igniting dreams for nearly 30 years. The facility is designed to channel inspiration and to create memories of a lifetime.
The Boathouse has storage located at its bottom level with workout space and locker rooms for teams. The main floor includes a high-ceiling ballroom that can seat up to 400 people or flex into three smaller meeting spaces, a catering kitchen, a bridal suite and a covered outdoor terrace area. The boathouse also houses an Olympic Legacy room featuring memorabilia from the 1996 Centennial Olympic Games.
The top floor has offices and an executive boardroom with a fireplace, an option for business retreats or board meetings for those in the community.
Ideal for corporate retreats, community events, and weddings, at The Boathouse guests can escape to the serenity of nature and lakefront views just a few miles from downtown Gainesville.
The venue serves as permanent home to the Lanier Canoe and Kayak Club, an annual contender in national and international competitions, and the Lake Lanier Rowing Club.
Lake Lanier Olympic Park is available to rent for weddings, festivals, sporting events, team-building activities and board meetings.
Visitors can learn to paddle or row during novice classes, join a team and train for competition, or rent a vessel and enjoy an afternoon on the water.
The Olympic Tower and plaza have been the host site to many sporting, social, civic and entertainment events. The plaza area can seat up to 2,000 people for various events. The Boathouse can seat up to 125 people. The tower can seat up to 20 people.
The park also includes picnic and beach areas, a boat ramp and dock.
3105 Clarks Bridge Road, Gainesville 855-536-1996
lakelanierolympicvenue.org/
LANIER CANOE AND KAYAK CLUB (LCKC)
LCKC is dedicated to continuing the 1996 Olympic legacy of promoting the sport of flatwater canoeing and kayaking on Lake Lanier. The club offers everything from one-day recreational opportunities to feeder programs for the U.S. National Teams for flatwater racing in dragon boat and canoe/kayak. It hosts several programs and events each year that support local, regional, national and international flatwater programs. lckc.org
LAKE LANIER ROWING CLUB
The Lake Lanier Rowing Club is a world-class training, competition and membership organization on Lake Lanier, home to the 1996 Olympic Games. The club boasts one of the most prestigious rowing venues in the country with activities for everyone from novice to expert.
lakelanierrowing.org
Sunset on Lake Lanier
Powering Industry
Jackson EMC’s Business Development Team: Tino Johnson, Kevin Dodson, Tate O’Rouke, Wade Johnson, Cameron Barnhill, Brandon Ashley and John Skinner
In Gainesville-Hall County CULTURE & LEISURE
The thriving business community of Gainesville-Hall County has a plethora of options for leisure when the workday is done. Join the millions who visit Lake Lanier’s waters for boating and swimming, hit the local square for dining and shopping, attend the many live music events — there are options for all tastes.
OUTDOORS
The vibrant landscape of Northeast Georgia offers a variety of outdoor recreation including hiking, golfing, youth athletics and fishing, to name just a few.
Elachee Nature Science Center is a premier environmental education center located in the 1,440-acre Chicopee Woods Nature Preserve, the county’s largest protected green space. The
woodland habitat is home to hundreds of native plants and animal species viewable from 12 miles of hiking trails. The campus includes a visitors center, live animal exhibit, nature shop and Aquatics Studies Center at Chicopee Lake. Popular annual events include Snake Day, Wildlife Fest, Trillium Trek, Stars over Elachee and Tree Day. 2125 Elachee Drive, Gainesville 770-535-1976, elachee.org
Atlanta Botanical Garden
Gainesville opened in 2015 on 168 acres donated by philanthropists Charles and Lessie Smithgall. Collections of trees, shrubs and flowers are grown and studied, all available for viewing on visitor walking trails. The site serves to expand the Atlanta Botanical Garden’s native plant and
endangered plan conservation programs. The garden serves as a site of plant propagation and restoration and cooperative programs with environmental groups. Yearly programs include displays by topiary and other natural artists. Also offered are adult classes, family programs and private rentals. A visitors center is available for various events, and a 2,000-seat amphitheater is host to several performance events during the year, including many bigname artists. Kids have their own space for outdoor play at the property’s Ada Mae Pass Ivester Children’s Garden, which opened to the public in summer 2020. A winding path leads children into an enchanted forest guarded by two dragon sculptures. Kids are encouraged to let loose and enjoy the stone labyrinth, play fort, discovery stations
Lake Lanier offers dozens of parks and other sites for day and overnight visitors.
The Army Corps of Engineers operates 46 parks and 76 recreation areas that include boat ramps, fishing, swimming, camping, hiking, picnic areas and playgrounds. The lake’s 10 marinas provide boat slips, fueling stations and restaurants.
Margaritaville at Lanier Islands includes a beach, waterslides, wave pool, restaurants and live music and entertainment. Lanier Islands’ restaurants include Bullfrogs Bar & Grille, Sidney’s Restaurant, Paradise Cantina and LandShark Bar & Grill. Legacy on Lanier golf club offers 18 holes overlooking the lake. Horseback riding, RV sites, boat rentals, fishing, camping, hiking trails, mini golf, zip lining and spa treatments also are available.
lanierislands.com
Harbour Landing
Jaemor Farms is a popular spot in northeast Hall for those looking for fresh Georgia peaches and other farm produce. A large open market offers a wide selection of locally grown products as well as soft serve ice cream and fried pies featuring the farms’ produce. Events, including U-pick days, are offered throughout the year as well as a corn maze and hay rides in the fall.
5340 Cornelia Hwy, Alto jaemorfarms.com
Don Carter State Park, Georgia’s only state park on Lake Lanier, covers 1,316 acres and includes 10.4 miles of shoreline, with hiking and biking trails, cabin rentals, camping sites, picnic shelters, boat ramps, docks, fishing, a beach, playground and a gift shop. Visitors can rent kayaks, paddleboards and aquacycles to travel the lake’s surface or hike four miles of walking trails.
gastateparks.org/DonCarter
Georgia State Parks offer other
County, including beautiful Amicalola Falls in Dawson County, with its 720foot waterfall; Black Rock Mountain, with panoramic views and trails; and the Chattahoochee National Forest and Appalachian Trail areas of the North Georgia mountains, offering year-round natural getaways, scenic vistas and visitor accommodations.
gastateparks.org
PARKS AND RECREATION
Gainesville Parks & Recreation is one of 10 nationally accredited agencies in the state, offering more than 450 acres of space, including parks, athletic fields, tennis courts, playgrounds and several other facilities. The department also offers summer camps and a variety of programming for families throughout the year, including events like Trick or Treat on the Trail and an annual butterfly release. Hall County Parks & Leisure, meanwhile, operates 2,133 acres of space in 27 parks, three community centers, three dog parks, two amphitheaters and an RV park. Both
departments also offer sports leagues for children as well as fitness programming for adults.
hallcounty.org/308/Parks-Leisure
The Frances Meadows Aquatic and Community Center in Gainesville includes 34,000 square feet of swimming area, including a 10-lane indoor competition pool with stadium seating for 300; a four-lane indoor instructional pool, ADA accessible with ramps; and seasonal waterpark with waterslides, a “lazy river” and spray fountains. Also available are a fitness and wellness centers, lounge, concessions, locker rooms and playground pavilion
1545 Community Way NE, Gainesville 770-533-5850, gainesville.org
A new youth sports complex, The Coop, is in the works, encompassing 89 acres off of Old Cornelia Highway in Gainesville. The space will have fields for baseball, softball, football, soccer and lacrosse, along with playgrounds, a
pavilion and trails.
2490 Old Cornelia Highway, Gainesville
Allen Creek Soccer Complex, a 54-acre site managed by Gainesville and Hall County, includes nine lighted fields, including a Stadium Field with seating for 2,500, practice areas, concession and restroom facilities.
2500 Allen Creek Road, Gainesville, 770-535-8280
Gainesville Skate Park opened in summer 2020 just off the Midtown Greenway, a paved trail for cyclists, walkers and joggers looking for an urban setting. The skate park includes rails, drops, ramps and other features for all ages of skaters.
636 High St. W SW, Gainesville
Engine 209 Park features a playground, picnic tables, a boardwalk over a pond, a large mural and easy access to the train car, which was built in 1930 and operated until 1959. The park is
located on the original route of the Gainesville Midland Railway.
878 Grove St., Gainesville
For those wanting to stretch their legs in the woods, the Linwood Nature Preserve offers over 2 miles of trails in forest, meadow, creek and lake habitats.
830 Green St. NE, Gainesville 770-531-2680, gainesville.org/recreation
Laurel Park on Lake Lanier is one of Hall County’s largest and most visited parks. It boasts a 350-foot-long mega boat ramp and offers amenities like a Splash Pad for children, a onemile paved walking trail, four baseball/ softball fields, two tennis courts, three pavilions and various picnic sites.
3100 Old Cleveland Highway, Gainesville
Cherokee Bluffs Park encompasses 168 acres with meadows, streams and historic sites. It features an amphitheater, lodge for meetings and events,
covered pavilion, bike trail, dog park, playground and many picnic areas.
5867 Blackjack Road, Flowery Branch 770-535-8280
River Forks Park on Lake Lanier offers camping facilities, a beach, bike trails, RV hookups, fishing, picnic areas, a pavilion and boat ramps. It also offers an event and meeting space in the 112acre park.
3500 Keith Bridge Road, Gainesville 770-531-3952
North Hall Park includes a community center, four baseball fields, batting cages, a track and a multipurpose field. The center holds two gymnasiums, a fitness center, meeting space, technology center, cafe and activity rooms. Programs, events, rentals and memberships are offered to residents throughout the year.
4175 Nopone Road, Gainesville 770-535-8280
Engine 209 Park
GOLF COURSES
Gainesville/Hall County and the surrounding area have a variety of golf courses within a short drive that are both scenic and challenging. Many wind their way around Lake Lanier, area rivers or the North Georgia mountains with signature holes for every level of play. Those looking for full golf vacations as part of the experience can reserve a full weekend with accommodations at Lanier Islands or Chateau Elan.
Chattahoochee Golf Club
Gainesville, 770-532-0066
gainesville.org
Chicopee Woods Golf Course
Gainesville, 770-534-7322
chicopeewoodsgolfcourse.com.
Legacy Golf Club at Lanier Islands
Buford, 678-318-7861
lanierislandsgolf.com.
Royal Lakes Golf and Country Club
Flowery Branch, 770-535-8800
royallakesgolfcc.com
Chateau Elan Golf Club
Braselton, 678-425-6050
chateauelan.com.
Mulberry Creek Community Center in South Hall is home to a fitness center, dance room, indoor walking track, two basketball courts and community meeting rooms that can hold 100-200 people. The park surrounding the facility includes a playground and dog park.
4491 JM Turk Road, Flowery Branch 770-965-7140
East Hall Community Center offers a 28,000-square-foot multipurpose space with a fitness center, indoor track, game room, dance room, two basketball courts and meeting rooms. Outside of the building, the park provides two Little League-size baseball/softball fields, four tennis courts, one regulation track and two concession stands.
3911 P Davidson Road, Gainesville 678-450-1540
Chicopee Woods Agricultural Center is the site of numerous horse shows and rodeos, dog shows, annual
Legacy Golf Club at Lanier Islands
Legacy Golf Club at Lanier Islands
gardening expos along with nature trails and green space.
1855 Calvary Church Road, Gainesville 770-531-6855
Butler Park is located in the southside of Gainesville. The park features a pavilion, playground, splash pad, amphitheater, basketball courts and a walking trail. It is next door to the E.E. Butler Center, which was a high school for Black students in Gainesville in the 1960s.
1300 Athens St., Gainesville
The Highlands to Islands Trail System is a multi-use system that connects the county north to south from Gainesville to Buford and east to west from Braselton to Lanier Islands. Portions of the trail remain under construction, but residents can travel more than 20 miles east to west in the southern part of the county. The newest portion of the trail system is the Tumbling Creek Trail which extends the existing trail an additional quarter mile from the pedestrian tunnel that runs beneath
Atlanta Highway to the pedestrian bridge near the University of North Georgia campus in Oakwood. Once complete, the Highlands to Islands Trail System will connect all of Hall County with a 40-mile stretch of paved trails, allowing users to walk or bike from Downtown Gainesville to Lake Lanier Islands. The system already includes a popular downtown portion known as the Midland Greenway, which features parks along the path, including two with playgrounds and a dog park.
highlandstoislands.org
FAMILY ACTIVITIES
Interactive Neighborhood for Kids is a kid-sized village unto itself where children can learn and play in a handson environment. Their make-believe world includes gaining experience as a banker, veterinarian, grocery clerk, doctor, dentist and other professions. The exhibits offer a fun setting for kids to learn about real-world roles in their community. In addition, INK holds
regular workshops for arts and crafts and is available for birthdays and other celebrations or group outings. INK is moving to Oakwood and has plans to open in 2025 or 2026. 999 Chestnut St. SE, Gainesville 770-536-1900, inkfun.org
The Georgia Mountains YMCA offers programs, events, instruction and wellness facilities. Included are swim lessons, sports teams and programs, fitness classes, childcare and more. 2455 YMCA Drive, Gainesville 770-297-9622, gamountainsymca.org
AUTO RACING
The Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta in Braselton is an internationally renowned road racetrack. The 2.54-mile course, which opened in 1970, hosts several major events during the year, including the annual Motul Petit Le Mans race. The event is considered the crown jewel in the Weather Tech Sports Car Championship series, bringing dozens of competitors and
Highlands to Islands Trail
thousands of spectators to the area each fall. Other events include Drift Atlanta, the HSR Mitty vintage classic, MotoAmerica superbike event and numerous club and corporate events. Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta opened the award-winning Michelin Tower, a 45,000-square foot structure that overlooks the start/finish line and serves as a multi-purpose event space, available for year-round rental to motorsports and non-racing customers alike.
Hall County has a growing local dining scene offering everything from the best burger a diner can offer to the fine dining of Antebellum, Chattahoochee Grille, Luna’s, Cotto Modern Italian and Scott’s Downtown.
Sizzling Spices offers a fine dining experience based around an Indian
menu with a twist. Sizzling Spices takes traditional Indian recipes and puts its own unique spin on those recipes by incorporating meats and combinations that aren’t typically associated with them. It’s located in the heart of Gainesville a short walk from the downtown square. Dine inside or on the patio.
317 Spring St. SE, Gainesville 770-287-8384, sizzlingspices.com
For a casual but oh-so-delicious experience, order a gyro or falafel from Alpha Gyro Grill, a Greek-owned restaurant. Get more adventurous with a plate of moussaka or one of the pasta dishes or soups.
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. Some of the menu items include cocoacrusted duck breast, grilled salmon, wild farm greens and a local charcuterie and cheese board.
5510 Church St., Flowery Branch 770-965-8100, antebellumrestaurant.com
Atlanta Highway Seafood Market is a popular seafood joint that features Cajun specialties like étouffée, gumbo and po’ boys. The restaurant’s adjoining fish market offers freshly caught seafood including crab, shrimp, scallops, mahi-mahi, gulf snapper and grouper.
227 Atlanta Highway, Gainesville 770-287-8277, atlantahighwayseafood.com
At Avocados, enjoy your meal along the sunny sidewalk of the Gainesville square or retreat inside to enjoy a fresh burger or skillfully fried chicken tenders. They also make a killer margarita. There’s an eclectic bar upstairs called Blue Door that features a DJ and a dress code.
109 Bradford St. S, Gainesville 770- 532-0001, avocadoseats.com
Michelin Raceway, Road Atlanta
Embrace family, mariachi music and loads of flavor at Big Burritos Mexican Grill. Authentic Mexican dishes include enchiladas verdes, carne asada and birria de res, beef that’s been braised for hours in a “secret sauce.”
The Chattahoochee Grill offers an array of breakfast and brunch, lunch and dinner fare. Guests can make reservations, order pickup or coordinate catering.
301 Tommy Aaron Drive, Gainesville 770-532 1173, info@chattahoocheegrill.com
With a spotlight on the lomanto grape, Cloudland Vineyards and Winery boasts bright, complex red wines alongside a selection of whites and rosès. Guests can often find live music and artisan food vendors on site.
3796 N. Bogan Road, Buford 678-765-7945, www.facebook.com/cloudlandwines
Travel back in time at The Collegiate Grill, which serves 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. Order one with a patty or two, add some cheese and ketchup — lettuce, tomato and onion if you like — and you’ll be on your way down memory lane.
220 Main St. SW, Gainesville 678-989-2280, facebook.com/collegiategrill
Just off the downtown Gainesville square, Consuelo features authentic Mexican cuisine and craft cocktails. Among its varied menu offerings, patrons will find taquitos de papa, potato-filled flat taquitos served with lettuce, fresh tomato salsa and queso fresco; carne en su jugo, braised sliced skirt steak, tomatillos, beans, bacon and chorizo; pozole verde, a seasonal chicken, hominy and poblano broth; and, for dessert, empanadas dulces and arroz con leche.
112 Bradford St., Gainesville
Cork It offers a wide selection of wine and charcuterie boards. Those not wanting to purchase an entire bottle of wine can opt for a wine flight or order from the by-the-glass menu.
118 Main St. SW, Gainesville 770-545-6164, www.corkitgainesville.com
Cotto, Italian for “cooked,” is located at the Gainesville Renaissance development on the downtown square. The menu features traditional dishes with modern twists, a wide variety of wines and Italianinspired cocktails. Some of the offerings include 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. NW, Gainesville
Downtown Drafts on the Gainesville square boasts a large rotating menu of area craft beer and wine. Guests can mingle with friends, order food from one of the downtown restaurants or play one of the many board
games displayed near the front of the taproom. There’s also sidewalk seating outside and visitors can take growlers home with them.
115 Bradford St. NE, Gainesville 678-943-2165, www.downtowndrafts.net
As the name suggests, Fish Tales offers seafood, including tuna poke nachos, clam strips and fried grouper fingers. There’s a sandbox for the kids and cold drinks for the adults all at a lakeside location.
Not to be confused with Atlanta Highway’s other, older seafood market, Gainesville Seafood Market & Eatery blends world cultures with Cajunflavored shrimp boils, Mexican-inspired fish tacos and crunchy tostadas.
1403 Atlanta Highway, Gainesville 678-971-1977, gainesvilleseafoodmkt.com
Hopscotch offers tapas on the downtown Gainesville square. The
Alpha Gyro Grill
menu changes with the season but features dishes ranging from Tater Tots to sprouts and goat cheese. It also features local brews.
107 Bradford St. NW, Gainesville hopscotchrestaurant.com
For a serious burger, or other sandwich for that matter, don’t miss Hop’s Kitchen in Gainesville. There’s a burger with pimento cheese and pickled green tomatoes, a burger with mushrooms and pesto and a burger with something called “beer sauce.”
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 678-696-5611, theinkedpig.com
Johnny’s BBQ is a local favorite that serves pork, beef and chicken sandwiches with their house sauce. Sides include Brunswick stew, baked beans and slaw. They sell their meats by the pound and their sides by the gallon.
Kelley’s Tavern & Grill features a bar and patio area staging live entertainment and cornhole tournaments. The menu includes something for everyone, with build your own burger, hot dog or even plant-based selections.
628 E.E. Butler Parkway, Gainesville facebook.com/kelleystavern
Looking for some good ol’ Southern comfort food? Longstreet Cafe has you covered. The longtime staple is the place to go if you’re looking for a meatand-three. Expect to find fried foods like chicken tenders and hefty sides like macaroni and cheese or mashed potatoes. Don’t forget your sweet tea and banana pudding.
Luna’s is a mainstay restaurant located in the Hunt Tower off the Gainesville square that 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. Don’t miss the piano bar.
200 Main St. SW, Gainesville 770-531-0848, lunas.com
A love of craft beer and adventure, NoFo Brew Co. and Distillery brings its family-friendly atmosphere to a spot right along the Midland Greenway in midtown Gainesville.
434 High St., Gainesville 678-771-8116, nofobrew.co
Located next to NoFo, Vendetti’s Pasta, Pizza & Grill serves the standards, but also offers unique meals that are what co-owner Cindy Mendoza calls “signature entrees.”
434 High St., Gainesville 678-929-9539
vendettispizzapastagrillga.com
Peyton’s Pie Co. is a downtown Flowery Branch staple with a signature wood-fired pizza. The pizza establishment opened another location inside Gainesville’s Main Street Market which is now open for business.
5609 Main St., Flowery Branch peytonspiecompany.com
Better Days is located next door to Peyton’s Pie Co. in downtown Flowery Branch. Offering Peyton’s Pie Co.’s signature wood-fired pizza, craft cocktails and craft beers. Better Days also offers a rotating late night menu, games and an outside patio to its customers.
5609 Main St. Suite C, Flowery Branch 678- 828-8699
Pig Tales is an outdoor bar that 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.
Located on the downtown Gainesville square, Recess Southern Gastro Pub offers trendy Southern foods along with classic pub fare like burgers and fish and chips, along with an inventive cocktail menu.
118 Bradford St. NE, Gainesville 678-450-0444, recesspub.com
Scott’s Downtown keeps a polished dinner menu with a range of premium steak and seafood dishes and a few Southern classics. The restaurant also provides an extensive cocktail menu for those wanting to kick back and unwind after work.
131 Bradford St. NE, Gainesville 770-536-1111, scottsdowntown.com
Located inside Gainesville Marina, Skogies offers outdoor and indoor dining and a menu featuring seafood and its signature grouper sandwich. Skogies also delivers food out to boats docking at the marina. It’s open seasonally.
A former fueling station turned gastropub, Standard Service offers self-serve beers, snacks and shareables. Doors roll up to connect the space to the outdoors.
Set in the rolling foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, fruit wines are Sweet Acre Farms Winery’s specialty. Guests can settle into a rocking chair on the expansive porch and enjoy country-style blends.
4584 Bill Wilson Road, Alto 678-769-5355, www.sweetacrefarms.com
Sweet Magnolias creates a daily buzz inside downtown Gainesville’s Main Street Market as those hungry for lunch stream in to order at the counter. Its menu features an array of straightforward sandwiches, soups, salads and baked goods
118 Main St. SW, Gainesville 678-862-0254
Those who visit Tap It Gainesville Growlers can lounge inside the downtown taproom or on the rooftop patio with a pint of craft beer or glass of wine in hand. Or, grab a growler to go. The locale also hosts local musicians several times a week.
110 Maple St., Gainesville 678-421-3312, www.tapitgrowler.com
Taqueria Tsunami is a contemporary fusion restaurant specializing in Latin-Asian cuisine inspired by the Los Angeles food truck scene, including hand-crafted tacos, and located in the Gainesville Renaissance.
106 Spring St., Gainesville taqueriatsunami.com
YellowFin spotlights seafood, with dishes like bang bang shrimp tacos and crab cakes. There are also options for the land farers. It’s located next to its sister restaurant Recess just off the downtown square.
120 Bradford St. NW, Gainesville 678-450-4225, yellowfingv.com
Zen Ramen & Sushi Burrito is the only Japanese restaurant in downtown Gainesville and serves up its namesake with filling choices including tuna, salmon, shrimp, crab and vegetable options.
115 Washington St. NE, Gainesville 678-696-5739
Decoy is a new “eatertainment” restaurant which offers a “contemporary new American” menu consisting of items like braised short ribs with polenta and baby carrots and grilled salmon quinoa bowls drizzled with a top-secret vinaigrette, among other delicious dishes. The entertainment side of the restaurant includes duckpin bowling, tech-infused minigolf and high-end golf simulators.
123 Green St. NE, Gainesville 678-943-1371, eatplaydecoy.com
HERITAGE AND HISTORY
Northeast Georgia History Center at Brenau University is a nonprofit museum dedicated to the
Zen Ramen & Sushi Burrito
display and preservation of historical artifacts from the region. Its grounds include the American Freedom Garden, White Path Cabin, ongoing and changing exhibits and monthly programs and Family Days that bring the past alive.
322 Academy St. NE, Gainesville 770-297-5900, negahc.org
Brenau University offers its historical perspective with buildings on the National Register of Historic Places, including Pearce Auditorium, a Victorian theater with a stunning ceiling fresco built in 1887 that serves as a venue for concerts, theater productions and community gatherings.
500 Washington St. SE, Gainesville 770-534-6299, brenau.edu
Alta Vista Cemetery in Gainesville is the historical resting place for two Georgia governors and many other dignitaries and notables, including longtime Gainesville resident and Confederate War Gen. James
Longstreet, right-hand man to Gen. Robert E. Lee. Longstreet settled in Gainesville in the late 19th century and managed the Piedmont Hotel, which has been fully restored by the Longstreet Society as a museum, meeting place and site for various events.
Alta Vista Cemetery, 521 Jones St. Gainesville, gainesville.org
The historic Piedmont Hotel has hosted many famous guests since its opening in 1876 including former President Woodrow Wilson and former First Lady Ellen Axson Wilson. Gen. James Longstreet owned and operated the hotel for nearly 20 years after the Civil War. It was known as a summer resort and boasted three stories and 36 rooms. Today people can visit the hotel which now contains a library, museum room, meeting room and the Woodrow Wilson room where the former president’s daughter Jesse was born.
Piedmont Hotel, 827 Maple St., Gainesville, 770-539-9005 Longstreetsociety.org
Poultry Park just off Gainesville’s downtown honors the area’s signature industry with a garden and statuary. The park is a tribute to the poultry industry that earned Gainesville the title of “Poultry Capital of the World.” Poultry Park, Jesse Jewell Parkway at Academy Street, Gainesville
Gainesville’s past is on display on the Green Street Historic District, included on the National Register of Historic Places, featuring 19th and 20th century Victorian and Neoclassical homes, many having been converted to local businesses.
The Beulah Rucker Museum is designed to honor the life of Beulah Rucker, a Black woman who devoted her life to educating children. She established the Industrial School off of Athens Highway in Gainesville during the early 1900s when many Black students weren’t allowed to attend school. The building is now home of the Beulah Rucker Museum, which
Pearce Auditorium, Brenau University
Pictured:
Cindy Fulenwider Greene, DMD
is dedicated to preserving Rucker’s legacy and African American history. This landmark is the first museum to focus on African American heritage in Gainesville and North Georgia. 2101 Athens Highway, Gainesville 470-525-5002, beulahruckermuseum.org
ARTS
Brenau University includes four art gallery spaces, a permanent art collection and performance venues. The John S. Burd Center for the Performing Arts offers modern, spacious facilities for dance, music, theater and other performing arts. The center includes the Hosch Theatre and the Leo Castelli Art Gallery
The Sellars Gallery in the Simmons Visual Arts Center and Presidents Gallery are host to art exhibits donated over the years or gathered by longtime president Burd, who established the university’s permanent exhibits in 1986. The Manhattan Gallery in the Brenau University Downtown Center includes 100 works from the collection
of Dorothy and Herbert Vogel, wellknown New York art collectors. Among the permanent pieces in the exhibit are photographs and prints by artist Andy Warhol. Brenau’s Trustee Library includes a permanent display of artifacts and memorabilia in partnership with the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund. The display of items from the Rwanda home of the famed primate conservationist is available free to the public and to school and community groups.
Simmons Visual Arts Center
200 Blvd., Gainesville
John S. Burd Center for the Performing Arts
429 Academy St., Gainesville Manhattan Gallery, Brenau University Downtown Center 301 Main St. SW, Gainesville galleries.brenau.edu
The University of North Georgia is host to multiple exhibits in the Roy C. Moore Art Gallery in the Continuing Education/Performing Arts Building on the Gainesville campus. Its displays
include multiple events yearly, offering public exposure to art students, faculty and visitors.
3820 Mundy Mill Road, Oakwood ung.edu
The Gainesville Theater Alliance combines the artistic support and talents of Brenau, University of North Georgia and the local arts community. Its calendar provides a full season of classic and contemporary theater productions that inspire, educate and entertain. It also allows Brenau and UNG students and faculty to work side by side with professional designers, choreographers and performers in creating acting, sets, music and dance productions.
678-717-3624, GainesvilleTheatreAlliance.org
The Gainesville Ballet Company is a cultural beacon promoting the appreciation, study and performance of dance to a diverse audience. Its School of Ballet has taught the art to thousands of children and adults since its found-
Gallery on the Square
ing in 1969. Classes include instruction in tap, jazz and hip-hop and include Brenau dance majors as instructors. Graduates have become professional dancers, instructors, choreographers, arts administrators and studio owners with companies in New York, Atlanta and around the Southeast.
615-F Oak St., Gainesville. School, 770-534-628
Box office, 678-769-8493 gainesvilleballet.org
Quinlan Visual Arts Center is Northeast Georgia’s largest center devoted to visual arts. Located in the Green Street Historic District, it has grown from its humble roots as the Gainesville Arts Association founded in 1947 to a full-service center offering galleries of rotating exhibitions of original works.
The Quinlan also offers a full schedule of painting, drawing, assorted media and sculpture classes and workshop for all ages.
514 Green St. NE, Gainesville 770-536-2575, quinlanartscenter.org
The Arts Council’s Smithgall Arts Center is housed in a former railroad depot built in 1914. It provides a series of musical performances, visual art exhibits and independent films along with other special programs. People can now
enjoy the center’s new 6,300-squarefoot outdoor stage and pavilion, which provides a venue for weddings, fundraisers, corporate events and outdoor concerts.
331 Spring St. SW, Gainesville 770-534-2787, theartscouncil.net
Quinlan Visual Arts Center
In Gainesville-Hall County VISION 2030
An intiative of the Great Hall Chamber, Vision 2030 is a coordinated group of volunteers leading long-term initiatives, defined by the citizens. Acting as change agents, the group champions those initiatives and propels them forward through collaborative partnerships with government, education, business and non-profits.
Vision 2030 has 11 working committees that concentrate on the community’s long-term initiatives or “Big Ideas”. Powered by volunteers, these committees work to make the vision a reality.
WELCOME INITIATIVE
Vision 2030 wants to ensure people who live, work, and play in Hall County
feel welcome and connected. The “welcome initiative” video is available as a resource for neighborhoods, subdivisions, employers, or individuals to share with new arrivals or visitors in the county. To view the video, visit Vision2030.org.
NEXTGEN HALL CO
The Vision 2030 Next Gen Committee consists of the next generation (ages 21-45) of Hall County residents and leaders. This group has a goal of helping to create relationships and encourage involvement for the future of Gainesville/Hall County. Gathering power through social media, they are able to communicate, voice their vision, and learn about opportunities to volunteer. The committee hosts monthly
Public Art
“Meet and Mingle” events, providing free networking opportunities for young professionals.
EDUCATION
Lifelong learning is a focus for young and old alike in Hall County. Wisdom Project 2030 leverages individuals age 55 and wiser to use their skills, expertise, and initiative for meaningful and impactful community involvement. The group graduates a class of new wisdom keepers annually and provides networking and service opportunities for the community throughout the year. Learn more at WisdomProject2030.org.
PUBLIC ART
Great communities have great art. The Vision 2030 Public Art Committee was formed to create opportunities for artists in conjunction with the growth of the community. This vibrant committee has seen over a million dollars invested through private and public collaboration. Public art projects include murals, sculptures, free range art, artistic crosswalks, community events and educational programming.
In partnership with the City of Gainesville, the Public Art Committee raised funds to bring an interactive Dragon Art installation to the downtown square. This installation offers visitors a unique experience and photo opportunity for tourists and residents alike. Throughout the day, the dragon “awakens” from its slumber, putting an awe-inspiring light and smoke show.
This committee hosts an annual fundraising event, the Block pARTy. This event provides attendees an opportunity to purchase original art for $100 or less to engage new art lovers and support the art community in Hall County. To learn more about this committee, visit PublicArtGainesvilleGA.com
GREENSPACE
Since all land is destined to be developed in some way, the Greenspace Committee works to ensure Greenspace is intentionally preserved through the development of Green Infrastructure. Through its
work with governments and private partnerships, this group is working to see parks, recreation areas, and raw land evenly distributed throughout Hall County. The group has served as a resource for local governments in the development of planning efforts and continues to work to keep Greenspace top-of-mind as the county is developed.
The Highlands to Islands Trail is one of Vision 2030’s biggest efforts. The multi-use trail system connects the many great cities together within Hall County through a 35-mile trail. The trail will eventually unite any existing greenways together under one trail name for the maximum benefit to the community and its citizens. Learn more at highlandstoislands.org
In Gainesville-Hall County EDUCATION
Education is a vital link to Gainesville-Hall County’s growing economic base as well as quality of life for its residents. Hall County and Gainesville school systems are expanding their facilities and classroom offerings to meet a growing, diverse student population that continues to increase with the influx of more residential areas.
More than 35,000 students are enrolled in the two systems. Nine private schools also provide parents with different options and disciplines, from faith-based to military or purely academic pursuits. Business and industry leaders in Gainesville-Hall County are working with educators from K-12 and colleges to develop apprenticeships, work-based learning programs and dual enrollment
as components of a major workforce development initiative.
PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Hall County Schools continues to grow with the county, now with more than 27,000 students enrolled at seven traditional high schools, eight middle schools, 19 elementary schools, a nontraditional high school that focuses on career development, a high school providing a dual enrollment experience and an alternative school.
The system employs more than 2,000 certified staff members and 1,400 classified employees across the county.
The rigorous and globally recognized International Baccalaureate program is available at three schools, including West Hall, Johnson and North Hall high schools. The district has 13
magnet schools, offers 25 programs of choice and 60-plus career pathways providing students with unique learning experiences relevant to their interests, talents and future.
A dual-enrollment high school called Howard E. Ivester Early College works in partnership with the University of North Georgia, Brenau University, Lanier Technical College and the University of Georgia to help students get a head start on higher education.
A 51-acre Agriculture Business Center in North Hall offers students hands-on experience in agriculture and animal husbandry. A Meat Science Center is on the same property, with the goal of providing some of the school system’s animal protein needs and training students for careers in meat processing.
Lanier Technical College Graduation
• 87.9% graduation rate • 39 programs of choice
•800+ Dual Enrolled Students (462 students at Ivester Early College); 2,600 units earned (1,580 units earned at Ivester Early College)
•11 Technical College Certificates offered at Lanier College Career Academy
• 950 Students involved in Work-Based Learning
The Hall County School District would like to thank all stakeholders and partners for their support in providing these opportunities for our students.
The first of four new elementary schools, Sandra Dunagan Deal Elementary, opened in 2024, and a second school is scheduled to open in 2025.
711 Green St., Gainesville 770-534-1080, hallco.org
Gainesville City Schools is recognized for being one of the first charter districts in Georgia. Each school strives to provide foundational instruction and innovative solutions to serve the dynamic needs of students, families and the community. Gainesville enrolls more than 8,000 students and 1,000 employees in six elementary schools, two middle schools and Gainesville High School, home of the staterenowned Red Elephant athletic teams. A non-traditional high school, Horizon Academy, opened in the fall of 2023.
Gainesville City’s elementary schools offer parent choice with open enrollment in one of two school clusters.
The district emphasizes Advanced Placement, dual enrollment, career
pathways and work-based learning as students transition from high school to their careers.
The Gainesville High School campus recently expanded with a 2020 project that brought a new Advanced Studies Center dedicated to Career, Technology and Agricultural Education, a new cafeteria, kitchen and media center, Student Activities Center and additional threestory classroom building. Gainesville High School also houses The Hub, a
centralized area where students and families across Gainesville City and Hall County can receive academic and workforce guidance, mental and behavioral health assistance and daily basic needs such as food and clothing. The renovated E.E. Butler Center opened in the fall of 2023, providing after-school and youth development programs and family services.
508 Oak St., Gainesville 770-536-5275, gcssk12.net
PRIVATE SCHOOLS
Established in 1907, Riverside Preparatory Academy provides Gainesville-Hall County an average annual economic impact of $35 million from its cadets and their families. The all-boys boarding school is on a 206acre campus in Gainesville and uses a military model of education.
Enrollment averages about 200 cadets from 25 states and 14 different countries. Many graduating cadets enroll in college and service institutions as well as join the military. Graduates collectively qualified for nearly $3 million in scholarships. In recent years, Riverside Prep has focused more instructional attention on science, technology, engineering and math education, with signature programs in aerospace engineering, cyber security and Civil Air Patrol.
Lakeview Academy, an independent college preparatory school in Gainesville, enrolls more than 520 stu-
Gainesville High School Graduation
dents, serves students aged 3 through 12th grade and is accredited by SAISSACS. Extensive extracurricular activities, including award-winning fine arts, athletics and robotics, are offered at all school levels.
Lakeview Academy’s academic rigor begins in the Lower School and aims to provide a student-centered approach to enhance a deeper understanding in science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Academic rigor continues in the Middle School with emphasis on developing good study habits, selfadvocacy skills, independence and technology competency.
Lakeview Academy’s Upper School offers 17 Advanced Placement courses, nine honors courses and a robust dual enrollment program. Over 90% of middle and upper school students are involved in at least one extracurricular activity, and almost 50% participate in multiple activities. The Upper School faculty strive to challenge students in areas of critical thinking and analysis, enhanced writing techniques and problem-solving skills. Lakeview Academy’s class of 2024 was offered $3.72 million in non-HOPE Scholarships. Our enrollment last year was 526 students. We don’t have numbers for the upcoming school year yet as we continue to enroll new students. Technology is an essential part of the school, from online classrooms and interactive boards to collaborative projects and Advanced Placement computer science courses. 796 Lakeview Drive, Gainesville 770-532-4383, lakeviewacademy.com
Elachee Nature Science Center operates Elachee Nature Academy, a nature-based and fully accredited preschool through second grade program, the first of its kind in Georgia and the Southeast. The private, tuition-based school is managed and operated by the Elachee Nature Science Center in Gainesville. Students highlight each day with exploration and play along the trails and streams of the 1,440-acre Chicopee Woods Nature Preserve and Elachee campus.
Lanier Christian Academy provides an academically excellent, biblically based education for K-12 students. Enrollment has grown to 530 students, who meet in Chestnut Mountain Church in South Hall. The school is planning a $55-60 million expansion over the next three decades. Once the expansion is complete, Lanier Christian Academy will have its own 36-acre campus with two academic buildings, a competition gym, an arts center that doubles as a chapel, a multipurpose building and a football-soccer field. Students K-8 will move into the school’s first academic building in January 2025, with a gymnasium and enough classrooms to accommodate nearly 1,000 students.
The fully accredited program through SACS and ACSI prepares students not only mentally but also physically, socially and spiritually for college and beyond. Lanier Christian Academy offers both a traditional five-day model of schooling, as well as a University-Model option that combines the best attributes of traditional schooling and homeschooling. The school combines influences from academics, athletics and arts departments to provide “a Christ-centered education” for its students.
Academy of Innovation and Ava White Tutorials is a private school dedicated to the remediation of specific learning disabilities for children in grades 1 through 12. The academy is accredited to the Georgia Accrediting Commission. 1399 Thompson Bridge Road, Gainesville 770-536-6898, aoiga.com
Mountain Education is a nontraditional high school with 18 campuses across North Georgia.
The school offers a full range of accredited high school courses in a convenient, flexible self-paced format. Classes are held in the evening so students can work during the day and attend school at night. Students can also work virtually to complete courses more quickly and graduate sooner.
RAMSEY
Tuition is free for students who enroll full time. Graduates earn an official Georgia high school diploma and must have completed all state requirements for graduation, including all mandated state tests. Mountain Education is fully accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools and all credits are transferable to any high school.
The Gainesville-Hall County Alliance for Literacy was formed in 1989 and serves as the umbrella agency for literacy concerns in the community. The Alliance serves as the advisory board for the Adult Learning Center, whose fiscal agent is Lanier Technical College. The Center provides free educational programs for adults 16 years and older who have not graduated from high school or whose native language is not English. Classes include: Literacy Instruction; Basic Skills; GED Preparation; GED
Gainesville-Hall County’s three institutions of higher education — Brenau University, University of North Georgia and Lanier Technical College — enroll more than 25,000 students across their various campuses.
University of North Georgia offers more than 100 programs of study and confers thousands of degrees annually. UNG’s economic impact on Northeast Georgia in recent years was more than $700 million annually. UNG’s Gainesville campus has more than 5,700 students and offers 29 bachelor’s degree programs, 28 associate degree programs, three graduate degree programs and three certificate programs. In the summer of 2023, the university named a new president, Michael Shannon, a former Georgia Tech administrator and retired U.S. Army officer who worked for
more than a decade as a nuclear technology expert for the U.S. Department of Defense.
UNG completed a 27,000-square-foot expansion of its Cumming campus in the fall, increasing its future enrollment capacity by more than 2,000 students. In 2025, UNG will open a 22,000-square-foot facility on its Blue Ridge campus. The university has also received state funding for a new Military Science Center at its Dahlonega campus.
UNG enrolled about 18,000 students as of fall 2023 across its campuses in Gainesville, Dahlonega, Cumming, Oconee County and Blue Ridge. 3820 Mundy Mill Road, Oakwood 678-717-3639, ung.edu
Lanier Technical College was founded in 1964 and its mission since has been workforce development. The college provides valuable skills in technical and mechanical trades to help a growing student body meet the needs of a changing 21st century workplace. In 2023, Lanier Tech set an all-time annual enrollment
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record of 8,400 students across its five campuses in Northeast Georgia. The college’s main campus is on a 95-acre site just north of Gainesville on Ga. 365.
The $131 million state-of-the-art campus opened in fall 2018 with 335,000 square feet of teaching space that can accommodate 5,000 students.
The college features a 40,000-squarefoot Ramsey Conference Center with a 20,000-square-foot ballroom that can seat 750 people. The campus includes six buildings with room to expand. The school is led by President Tim McDonald.
Lanier Tech offers more than 50 programs of study across a wide range of industries, including manufacturing, business, engineering, transportation, computer science, healthcare and public safety. Graduates have enjoyed a 100% job placement rate for five of the last seven years.
The economic development programs offered at Lanier Tech are among the state’s best. The college’s Economic Development division provides continuing education and customized training in
many areas including ammonia refrigeration, robotics, programmable logic controllers, CPR/First Aid/AED, Microsoft Office Suite, Leadership and many other industry-specific areas. Lanier Tech is also home to Georgia’s Industrial Ammonia Refrigeration Training Program, providing training to industrial partners in all 50 states and across the world.
Lanier Tech, working in partnership with local Certified Literate Community Programs, offers Adult Education courses for individuals. The college is renowned for helping students who wish to obtain their high school equivalency diploma. It also provides programs for non-native speakers to improve their English skills and help candidates prepare for the U.S. citizenship exam.
Brenau University was founded in 1878 and enrolls 2,700 students across its multiple campuses and online in coeducational graduate and undergraduate studies. The privately owned insti-
Lanier Techincal College
tution has a rich tradition of educating women that is carried on in its residential Women’s College, and women still make up more than 90% of Brenau’s student population.
Brenau began coeducational studies in 1972 and today offers bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees. The school is led by David Barnett, the university’s 11th president.
Brenau’s psychology programs have expanded to address the urgent need for quality mental health care in the region. The university’s Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program addresses a growing shortage of psychiatric clinicians.
This year, Brenau is launching a Police Mental Health Certificate designed to meet the need for trained mental health professionals to work as co-responders with law enforcement officers. The program is offered through the Lynn J. Darby School of Psychology and Adolescent Counseling, on the second floor of the Gainesville Renaissance on the downtown square.
Established through a financial gift from the Melvin Douglas and Victoria Kay Ivester Foundation, the university’s Darby Scholars Program provides financial support to students interested in becoming front-line mental health clinicians who respond with law enforcement officers. Darby Scholars are students enrolled in the university’s master’s degree program and serve as in-field interns for the Gainesville Police Department.
Just behind the Gainesville Renaissance is the Brenau Downtown Center, with meeting and theater facilities that can be used by the public. The facility houses the university’s doctoral program in physical therapy, master’s program in physician assistant studies and other health care disciplines. It is also home to the Manhattan Gallery, one of many Brenau galleries featuring some of the 6,500 pieces in the university’s Permanent Art Collection.
Brenau East houses the university’s Business Incubator, the Mary Inez Grindle School of Nursing and the
School of Occupational Therapy with clinical doctorate programs from each school. It includes a state-of-the-art human simulator laboratory, dance studios, classrooms and an auditorium.
Brenau also has the Ernest Ledford Grindle Athletics Park in New Holland, providing a home for the Golden Tigers’ softball team. The school also fields teams in basketball, track and field, soccer, tennis, golf, swimming, cross country, cheerleading and volleyball and has earned numerous conference titles and national acclaim in NAIA competition.
Another feature program, the Gainesville Theatre Alliance, is a nationally recognized collaboration between Brenau, the community, industry professionals and the University of North Georgia that features productions to rival the nation’s largest theater schools. Productions are performed in the university’s historic Hosch Theatre and Pearce Auditorium.
500 Washington St. SE, Gainesville 770-534-6299, brenau.edu
Brenau University
In Gainesville-Hall County HEALTH CARE
Northeast Georgia Health System (NGHS) cares for more than 1 million people across the region through five hospital campuses and a variety of other locations. In 2023, NGHS saw 1.7 million patient visits – including nearly 1 million outpatient visits, 47,000 inpatient stays and almost 200,000 emergency room visits – performed more than 30,000 surgeries, delivered more than 5,200 babies and provided more than 59,000 virtual visits.
Led by volunteer boards made up of community leaders, NGHS is a notfor-profit health system, so all revenue beyond operating costs is returned to the community through improved services and innovative programs.
The Health System, which generated nearly $7.5 million in local and state
economic impact in 2022, is anchored by Northeast Georgia Medical Center (NGMC) Gainesville, the flagship and largest hospital of NGHS, which opened its doors in 1951. NGMC Gainesville is a designated Level I Trauma Center with award-winning specialty services including heart and vascular services, emergency services, advanced surgery and medical services, orthopedics, labor and delivery, NICU services, neurosciences and cancer treatment.
NGMC Gainesville is building a new patient tower to better serve its rapidly expanding service area and enhance access to emergency services and other advanced care. Set to open early 2025, the 927,000-squarefoot expansion will make NGMC Gainesville the third-largest hospital
in the state by bed size. The new tower will also include a rooftop helipad for faster access to life-saving trauma, heart and stroke care, additional operating rooms and a new, larger emergency room with dedicated pediatric space. NGMC Braselton opened in 2015 and provides many of the same services as NGMC Gainesville – including heart and vascular services, emergency services, advanced surgery and medical services, orthopedics, labor and delivery, NICU services, neurosciences and cancer care.
The Braselton Cancer Center opened in Medical Plaza 1 in 2021, offering comprehensive, collaborative cancer care in a newly expanded, dedicated space. NGMC Braselton’s Medical Plaza 2 includes Braselton Surgery Center and dedicated space for
Northeast Georgia Health System
physician offices.
The system’s third hospital campus, NGMC Barrow, joined the NGHS team in 2017. Located in Winder, it offers emergency services, surgery, heart services, imaging and radiology and more.
NGMC Lumpkin has provided emergency and inpatient care for patients in Dahlonega since 2019 and moved to a new location along Ga. 400 in 2024. The new facility allowed NGMC Lumpkin to expand its services to include outpatient surgery while also providing the high-quality emergency services, inpatient care and imaging services the community has grown to trust.
NGMC Habersham joined the health system in 2023 and provides emergency services, labor and delivery, inpatient care and surgery close to home in Habersham County.
NGHS is also expanding its number of medical plazas – buildings housing multiple specialty physician offices and often anchored by urgent care centers – to provide access to services closer to
New Patient Tower, Rendering, Northeast Georgia Medical Center
home throughout the region. Locations include Gainesville, Braselton, Buford, Dawsonville, Jefferson, Bethlehem, Toccoa and more.
Additionally, Northeast Georgia Medical Center (NGMC) is proud to be a growing academic institution –training the physician leaders of tomorrow. The Graduate Medical Education program at NGMC trains resident physicians in internal medicine, family medicine, general surgery, emergency medicine and psychiatry. This bright and talented group of physicians is integrated into the health system and area clinics and is a vital part of the physician workforce and the community. As of 2024, all six specialties could host more than 200 residents, which would make the program one of the largest in the state of Georgia. NGMC also offers fellowships in cardiovascular disease, hospice and palliative care, infectious disease and pulmonary and critical care. Over the last two decades, NGHS has grown tremendously, adding locations across Northeast Georgia so resi-
dents have access to health care close to home.
Medical Office Buildings – physician offices representing multiple specialties come together in one location for patients’ convenience. Locations include Gainesville, Braselton, Buford, Dawsonville, Jefferson and Bethlehem. nghs.com/medical-office-buildings
Urgent Care – eight locations for treatment of minor injuries and illnesses, including Braselton, Buford, Cleveland, Dacula, Dahlonega, Dawsonville, Gainesville, Jefferson, Bethlehem, Toccoa and more. Open 8 a.m. to 7:45 p.m., 7 days a week.
See wait times and save your spot online at nghs.com/urgent-care Rehabilitation Centers – locations in Braselton, Buford, Cleveland, Dahlonega, Dawsonville, Demorest and Gainesville for physical, speech and occupational therapy.
Imaging Centers – locations in Barrow, Braselton, Buford, Dawsonville, Demorest and Gainesville.
Sleep Disorder Centers – two loca-
tions in Braselton and Gainesville.
Long Term Care Centers – two locations in Gainesville and one in Demorest.
Mental Health and Substance Abuse Treatment Center – one location in Gainesville.
Northeast Georgia Medical Center – campuses in Gainesville, Braselton, Winder, Dahlonega and Demorest offer trauma and emergency services, advanced surgical services, labor and delivery, comprehensive cancer care, and innovative heart and vascular services. 770-219-9000 | nghs.com
CLINICS & SPECIALTY MEDICAL SERVICES
Northeast Georgia Physicians Group (NGPG), a service of Northeast Georgia Health System, is one of the largest multi-specialty groups in North Georgia. NGPG brings together over 700 talented physicians and advanced practice professionals at over 50 locations.
ngpg.org
Braselton Surgery Center, Northeast Georgia Health System
Georgia Heart Institute (GHI) is the comprehensive, multi-disciplinary heart and vascular program of Northeast Georgia Health System. GHI is the largest cardiology practice in the region with more than 120 physicians and advanced practice professionals seeing patients at more than a dozen locations. These cardiologists make sure your heart stays healthy by treating routine and complex conditions, and they lead new ideas about prevention and treatment through clinical research and trials.
770-534-2020
georgiaheartinstitute.org
Longstreet Clinic is a primary care and multi-specialty medical group devoted to providing the highest quality health care services to patients and their families in the region. Through its multi-disciplinary approach, Longstreet Clinic assures the most appropriate and cost-effective healthcare services are delivered in a caring and compassionate manner to patients of all ages.
Northeast Georgia Health System
Since its founding in 1995, Longstreet Clinic has grown to include more than 200 physicians and advanced practice providers, 20 specialties and 9 locations, including Hall County offices in Gainesville, Oakwood and Braselton. Its clinics offer a full range of care including pediatrics, neonatology, family medicine, obstetrics and gynecology, vascular and general surgery, oncology and hematology, perinatology and more. Longstreet Clinic’s Breast Center and
Neuroscience and Orthopedic Center allows physicians to treat almost any type of musculoskeletal or neurological concern. Additionally, Longstreet Clinic offers the state’s only comprehensive bariatric program at its Center for Weight Management.
One of the largest independent group practices in Georgia, Longstreet Clinic is consistently recognized by the community and healthcare industry for its quality care and innovation, includ-
ing its distinction as the first practice in the area to receive certification for all primary care sites through the NCQA Patient-Centered Medical Home program and the second practice in the state to earn certification in the Quality Oncology Practice Initiative.
Hall County locations: Gainesville
725 and 655 Jesse Jewell Parkway SE, Gainesville Braselton
1270 Friendship Road, Braselton (multi-specialty)
1515 River Place West, Suite 140, Braselton (cancer services) Oakwood
For 70 years, the physicians and staff of the Northside Hospital Diagnostic Clinic have been providing compassionate, innovative, quality health care to Longstreet Clinic Top Doctors
Longstreet Clinic
Gainesville and the surrounding communities of Northeast Georgia. The Northeast Georgia Diagnostic Clinic has grown into a practice of 41 physicians and 15 midlevel providers and is owned by Northside Hospital but operates as a separate LLC subsidiary. Today, the Clinic offers care and treatment in the areas of general internal medicine, endocrinology, hematology, medical oncology, nephrology, pulmonary disease and rheumatology. Northeast Georgia Diagnostic Clinic patients receive complete comprehensive care and enjoy access to these convenient in-office services:
• cancer care
• diabetes and nutrition education
• infusion services
• imaging services
• retail pharmacy
• pulmonary function testing
• sleep medicine
The Diagnostic Clinic satellite offices in Braselton are located on Friendship Road. Highpoint Medical Center provides services for endocrinology, pulmonology, nephrology and rheumatology.
Internal Medicine
Brent Archer, MD
Ralf G. Augenstein, MD
Scott Barrett, DO
Richard Blatt, MD
Shane Bussler, MD
Kristina Carlson, DO
Darrell Cheek, MD
Santhi Chennareddy, MD
Rosemary Chofor, MD
Hanna A. Lin, MD
Mubeen Mandani, DO
Hillary Morgan, MD
Ryan M. Nadelson, MD
Justin Pandoo, MD
Birju B. Patel, MD
Shaan Patel, DO
Mini Shivprasad, MD
Sean Sumner, MD
Riverstone Medical Plaza provides internal medicine and oncology and infusion services. In the Duluth area, the clinic provides internal medicine, endocrinology, rheumatology and nephrology services to patients in the area.
1240 Jesse Jewell Parkway Southeast, Suite 500, Gainesville
Oncology/Hematology:
1485 Jesse Jewell Parkway Southeast, Suite 330, Gainesville, 470-228-7700
Nephrology:
1250 Jesse Jewell Parkway Southeast, Suite 400, Gainesville
Sleep Medicine:
1276 Jesse Jewell Parkway Southeast, Suite C, Gainesville
Highpoint Medical Center
1270 Friendship Road, Suite 100, Braselton
Oncology/Hematology:
Riverstone Medical Plaza, 1255 Friendship Road, Suite 230, Braselton Gainesville: 770-536-9864
Highpoint and Riverstone: 470-228-7900
ngdc.com
Internal Medicine
Jeffrey Terry, MD
Megan Tierney, DO
Roberto Villanueva, MD
Endocrinology
Sreedevi Avdhani, MD
Matthey Harris, MD
Jennifer M. John, MD
Esther Lee, MD
Eniki Mack, MD
Anusha Ramadhas, MD
Deep Shikha, MD
Cacia Soares-Welch, MD
Nephrology
Madhurima Adulla, MD
Mark Kats, MD
Laura Shepherd, MD
Ramapriya Sinnakirouchenan, MD
Kim Tran, MD
Pulmonology
Craig Brown, MD
Wesley Head, MD
Nikky Keer, DO
Greg Mauldin, MD
Sunny Sambhara, MD
Joseph West, MD
Rheumatology
Sylvia Dold, DO
Yashswee KC, MD
Fahad Khan, MD
Tracy Lovell, MD
Alok Sachdeva, MD
Yeohan Song, MD
David Wang, MD
Hematology/Oncology
Antony Charles, MD
Andre Kallab, MD
Padma Nadella, MD
Christina Saurel, MD
Saloni Tanna, MD
Bone Densitometry
CT Scans
Diabetes Education
Infusion Services
Laboratory Services
Mammography
MRI
Concierge Medicine /DirectCare
Nuclear Medicine
Nutrition Services
Pulmonary
The surgeons of Specialty Orthopaedics provide an innovative, cost-effective and collaborative program of sports medicine, total joint replacement, orthopaedic surgery and general orthopaedics. Specialty’s physicians are fellowship-trained and highly experienced in the latest minimally invasive techniques. From the feet and ankles to knees, hips, shoulders, hand and elbow, and spinal care — literally head to toe — Specialty Clinics is ready to serve your needs. With the only four-room solely orthopaedic ambulatory surgery center in the state of Georgia, we are eager to take care of our friends and neighbors right here in the community.
Gainesville
1240 Jesse Jewell Parkway, Suite 300 Braselton
1229 Friendship Road, Suite 100 Dawsonville
81 Prominence Court, Suite 100 770-532-7202, scg-ortho.com
Guilford Immediate Care centers provide non-emergency care for con-
ditions that deserve prompt attention. Patients do not require appointments, although prior arrangements are always welcome for routine physicals or follow-up visits. Most patients are those with unexpected illness or injury.
From vaccinations to dental care, the Hall County Health Department offers a wide range of health care services to all Hall County residents and is staffed by highly
trained and experienced nursing professionals who deliver a variety of preventive and curative health services. Also, the health department is a source for vital records, such as birth and death certificates, and is responsible for making the community aware of public health concerns, such as COVID-19 and the Monkeypox virus.
Avita Community Partners is a resource for individuals and families in Northeast Georgia experiencing the effects of mental illness, developmental disabilities and addictive diseases. Avita’s goal is to assist in the development of safe, stable, meaningful lives for residents in a 13-county area. In 2021, it opened an $11.8 million Behavioral Health Crisis Center that offers 24-hour walkin access for detoxification and mental health emergency services. Other services
include outpatient behavioral health, women’s substance use residential treatment, teen substance use clubhouse, peer support groups, autism services, host homes, supportive housing and employment, family support for individuals with developmental disabilities and jail inreach at the Hall County Jail. Avita provides low or no-cost services to all ages, including those who are uninsured and Medicaid and Medicare recipients. avitapartners.org, 678-513-5700
Avita Mental Health Crisis Center
Georgia Skin Cancer & Aesthetic
Dermatology offers the most advanced techniques to maintain healthier skin that is smoother, blemish-free, and most important–free of skin cancer.
MEDICAL DERMATOLOGY
COSMETIC DERMATOLOGY
SKIN CANCER
MOHS SURGERY
Misty Caudell, MD Dermatologist
Natalie Meeks, MD Dermatologist
Helen Malone, MD Mohs Surgeon
Ross Campbell, MD Mohs Surgeon
OUR HALL COUNTY PHYSICIANS
In Gainesville-Hall County HOUSING
Gainesville and Hall County
housing options offer residents the perfect blend of open spaces, natural settings and affordable living all within a short drive of urban life in Gainesville, Athens and Atlanta. The diversity of options range from in-town apartment living to homes for growing families and upscale lakeside villas.
Housing construction has been on the rise for several years in the county with the economy surging and the population growing. Residential growth isn’t necessarily confined to any one area in Gainesville-Hall.
Large housing developments such as Sterling on the Lake in Flowery Branch, Marina Bay on Lake Lanier in North Hall County, Reunion in Braselton and Mundy Mill in South Gainesville offer master-planned com-
munities with amenities.
New single-family home and townhome subdivisions are being built across the area, including Union Grove in South Hall. The neighborhood will feature a pond, trails, cabana and swimming pool.
Cypress Park is a new townhome development featuring farmhouse designs at Mundy Mill subdivision in south Gainesville. Construction is ongoing in Prescott, a subdivision in West Hall.
Gainesville Township includes mostly single-family detached homes, along with some townhomes and apartments. Also planned in the development is commercial space and amenities such as a clubhouse, swimming pool with separate children’s area, pickleball courts, disc golf, dog park and lighted
Flowery Branch Homes
Midland Gainesville Apartments
tennis courts.
For help finding the perfect home, real estate agents and apartment or housing contacts, search the Chamber’s business directory online at greaterhallchamber.com.
APARTMENTS AND RENTAL PROPERTIES
Though two-thirds of Hall residents are homeowners, an increasing number of rental options are available, with more on the way. They are designed to attract upscale millennials and seniors who prefer workplay-shop communities all within walking distance.
New apartments and retail have opened in downtown Gainesville at The Everly, Solis Gainesville, and Midland Gainesville
Another major downtown Gainesville project, The National has brought more downtown residential units along with a Courtyard by Marriott hotel. The complex features one, two, and three-bedroom units targeted to young professionals.
Luxury townhomes and single-family rental cottages are planned as a redevelop-
The National
ment of a historic shopping center in Gainesville. AVA Gainesville on Shallowford Road is aimed at those interested in renting in a walkable community.
Folksong apartments off Hog Mountain Road near Spout Springs Road in Flowery Branch features a swimming pool, dog park and fitness center/yoga studio.
Midland Gainesville, a 214-unit complex in Gainesville’s midtown area, features one-bedroom, two-bedroom and studio units in three buildings.
SENIOR LIVING
Lanier Village Estates retirement community has expanded in North Hall.
Acts Retirement-Life Communities added 31 cottages to the 107-acre community on Lake Lanier. The addition brings the total number of cottages to 62.
More than 500 people currently live at Lanier Village Estates, which opened in 2001. It has independent living apartments, assisted living suites, carriage homes and skilled-care rooms. The new cottages offer different models, each with two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a den and a two-car garage.
Active-adult subdivisions are developing fast, such as Del Webb at Chateau Elan, a 784-home, 55-and-
older community straddling Hall and Gwinnett counties in Braselton.
An amenity center that emphasizes “active” in active-adult has opened there, featuring indoor and outdoor swimming pools, fitness and craft rooms, bocce ball, pickleball courts and lounge areas.
Village at Deaton Creek is one of the first retirement communities in the South Hall area and can boast access to medical care as one of its primary amenities, as Northeast Georgia Medical Center Braselton next door. The development features many other amenities, including a clubhouse with meeting spaces and a library. The neighborhood also has a swimming pool, pickleball courts, tennis courts, fitness center, dog park and a “grandchildren’s playground.”
Cresswind at Lake Lanier in Gainesville is a sprawling 55 and older community split by a busy road but connected by a tunnel — an unusual feature for most area neighborhoods. The neighborhood also features an expansive clubhouse, swimming pool, fitness center and hiking trails.
Cresswind also has had various active resident groups, including a veterans club. Also, the Cresswind LL Community Fund raises money for special causes and organizations, such as The Guest House, an adult day care facility.
Cresswind at Lake Lanier
The Everly
In Gainesville-Hall County ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Ranked as “The Best Place to do Business” in the nation for the last 10 years, Gainesville-Hall County is among Georgia’s top go-to locations for commercial development. The Gainesville-Hall County MSA was named a “top performing small metro area in Georgia” in 2023 and 2024 by Site Selection and was rated among Area Development’s cities for “Year-After-Year Growth.”
The 2024 Milken Institute Report also named Gainesville-Hall County as the top small metro area in Georgia and No. 3 in the nation for best performing small metros.
According to the Georgia Department of Labor, nearly 6,000 employer establishments represented Gainesville-Hall County employment in 2024. Of those, 99% of businesses are
categorized as small, using the Small Business Administration’s definition of fewer than 500 employees; 93% of them employ fewer than 50 people.
As a center of trade and commerce for two centuries, Gainesville-Hall continues to prosper as the trade, medical, educational, retail, industrial, recreation and cultural hub of Northeast Georgia.
WORKFORCE
The Gainesville-Hall County Metropolitan Statistical Area is among the top 50 fastest-growing metros in the nation. Hall County’s population is approximately 250,000, with a daytime population in Gainesville exceeding 125,000. The population has increased by 28% since 2010 and is expected to increase by 13% over the next 10 years, according to the Governor’s Office of
Planning and Budget. This increase is attributed mostly due to the low cost of living, high quality of life and an abundance of career and development opportunities that lead to a financially stable and comfortable lifestyle. The median age of the workforce in Gainesville-Hall County is 33.5 years.
Today there are approximately 114,650 highly skilled workers in the Gainesville-Hall County labor force and a total of 946,022 people in the Hall area labor force, many of whom commute an average of 30 minutes to work in the Gainesville-Hall County area each day. Of particular note is that Gainesville-Hall County is served by more than 475 health care service providers that employ over 16,000, or 15% of the county’s workforce. Almost 80%
Economic Development Center, Lanier Technical College
of those jobs are in the region’s health care epicenter in Gainesville.
The median household income in Gainesville-Hall County is $64,165.
BUSINESS
Gainesville-Hall County enjoys a thriving business climate and offers abundant career and development opportunities for young and seasoned professionals alike. The area is widely recognized as one of the top places in Georgia to do business. Just one of the many accolades for the area came from Forbes Magazine, which named Gainesville as one of the “Best Small Places for Business and Careers.” The Milken Institute report also recognized Gainesville-Hall County MSA among the best small metro areas in the U.S. for the 10th consecutive year based on job and salary growth. With so many opportunities for success and prosperity, it is no wonder so many businesses and individuals choose Gainesville-Hall as the start of a long and prosperous career.
Hall County’s stability, skilled workforce, visionary leadership and quality of life attract industries to the area, Gainesville-Hall is home to about 50 Fortune 500 firms, more than 330 manufacturing and processing plants and more than 60 locations of international companies representing 21 countries. Gainesville-Hall is able to support a variety of businesses. From entrepreneurial startups to manufacturing or technology companies, Hall County can provide easy transportation accessibility, tax incentives, utilities, educational and training programs and the skilled workforce to make any business successful.
The Greater Hall Chamber has secured major investment in its aggressive five-year economic development plan for Gainesville-Hall County called HALLmark 2020-2025. Area businesses are investing $2.5 million in the program to ensure the economic viability of our region. The benefits of HALLmark include high quality jobs, a stable and growing tax base, the protection of existing investments and an unparalleled quality of life. HALLmark’s five-year program goals
seek to create some 1,700 new jobs and $250 million in capital investment, $60 million in new annual payroll and to maintain the Gainesville MSA’s unemployment rate below that of the state and nation.
BUSINESS INCENTIVES/ JOB CREATION AND INVESTMENT INCENTIVES
As one of the best places to do business in Georgia, Hall County offers attractive incentives to new and existing businesses to encourage the creation of new jobs and investment, including:
• Job Tax Credit Program
• Port Job Tax Credit Bonus
• Retraining Tax Credits
• Opportunity Zones
• Inventory Tax Exemption
Credits earned in Hall County may be used to offset a company’s Georgia corporate income tax liability. Unused credits may be carried forward up to 10 years. For more information on Hall County and Georgia business incentives, visit greaterhallchamber.com.
EDUCATION AND TRAINING
Technology and education equal progress. Workforce development is a high priority to support existing business as they deploy next-generation technology applications and to encourage growth in complementary businesses of life-science companies, telecommunications, technology, manufacturing, software development and support industries. Gainesville-Hall County is home to exceptional educational opportunities from preschool to graduate studies. Beyond the two outstanding public school systems serving Hall County residents, more than 18,000 students are enrolled in the area colleges and universities: Brenau University, University of North Georgia and Lanier Technical College.
In 2018, Lanier Technical College relocated its main campus to a 95-acre site on Georgia Highway 365. The new $135 million state-of-the-art campus has 335,000 square feet of teaching space and enrolls over 6,100 students. Another 150,000 are enrolled in col-
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leges and universities less than an hour away. Business and industry leaders in Hall County also are working with K-12 educators and colleges to develop apprenticeships and Work-Based Learning (WBL) as components to a major workforce development initiative. In Gainesville-Hall County, workforce training expands beyond the classroom and serves area businesses and industries with customized training programs and workshops. GainesvilleHall County provides access to Georgia job training to develop a more skilled workforce and, ultimately, successful businesses. Training partnerships include:
• Lanier Technical College
• Advanced Manufacturing Technology Center
• Georgia’s Quick Start Training Program
• Georgia’s Centers of Innovation
• Georgia’s HOPE Scholarship and HOPE Grant
• Worksource Georgia Mountains
• Apprenticeships
Proudly Supporting Our Community
At United Community, our mission is to
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Gainesville
351 Jesse Jewell Parkway | 770-531-3191
5172 Cleveland Highway | 770-983-2593
2157 Sandridge Court | 770-534-1165
Oakwood
3785 Mundy Mill Road | 770-287-8976
The Courtyard by Marriot
DOWNTOWNS
Gainesville already has what new cities are paying hundreds of millions of dollars to create: a four-sided square, historic charm, a scene of locally owned restaurants and shops and no vacancies. Gainesville’s downtown services the central business district for its 50,000 city residents and the estimated 150,000 commuters who work and shop in the county seat.
One side of the Gainesville square has been redeveloped with a mixeduse project, Gainesville Renaissance, which includes eight condominiums, Brenau University’s Lynn J. Darby School of Psychology and Adolescent Counseling, retail space, office space, restaurants and a pocket park.
Around the corner is a Courtyard by Marriott, The National, with apartments, meeting space and a casual restaurant space. Bourbon Brothers and Boot Barn Hall, a large music and event venue along with tavern serves downtown Gainesville.
Across a pedestrian bridge from Gainesville Renaissance
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downtown is The Everly, a mixed-use development with restaurant and retail space along with luxury apartments.
The cities of Flowery Branch and Oakwood are redeveloping their downtown areas to attract more small businesses. Both cities are planning for substantial growth around the Thurmon Tanner Parkway corridor, as well as other areas throughout the cities. A mixed-use project in downtown Flowery Branch includes apartments, retail and restaurant space. The South Hall city also has developed an amphitheater and a farmers market pavilion, along with more parking spaces and new landscaping in the downtown area.
RETAIL
Recent census data indicates Gainesville-Hall County has a primary trade area that serves a population closing in on 2 million Northeast Georgia residents and is the region’s major retail center.
New Holland Market at Interstate 985 Exit 24 is one of the fastest-grow-
ing retail developments. Anchored by a Kroger, it has a variety of casual dining, medical offices and nearby apartments. Highway 365 North is poised as a new retail and commercial corridor with access and infrastructure improvements.
Dawsonville Highway offers more than 1.7 million square feet of retail and restaurant space and is still growing.
In the south end of the county, Stonebridge Village Center generates retail and restaurant interest along the I-985 corridor.
In Braselton, a shopping center is being developed by Halvorsen Development Corp. on 32 acres near the Hall County line. Lowe’s and Publix are two main anchors there.
TOURISM
Economic impact of Hall County’s tourism industry recently reached a record high of $330 million, helped in part by Don Carter State Park and Atlanta Botanical Garden
Gainesville. The Lake Lanier Olympic Park has an area impact of $7.8 million.
The Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival returned in 2024 for its 27th year at Lake Lanier, a one-day event that draws as many as 10,000 spectators 75 teams from across the country participating in the event.
The $21 million Boathouse at Lake Lanier Olympic Park opened in 2024 as an event center in addition to a place to develop world-class athletes in canoe, kayak and rowing. The main floor features a ballroom that can seat up to 400 people or flex into three smaller meeting spaces.
Other visitor attractions and Hall County include:
Lanier Islands Resort, a worldclass 15,000-acre resort and conference center
Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta, a 2.54-mile international Grand Prix racecourse, which is North America’s premier 10-hour, 1,000 mile, Petit Le Mans each Fall. The event draws
Atlanta Botanical Gardens Gainesville
150,000 spectators and is viewed around the world.
Interactive Neighborhood for Kids (INK), a hands-on children’s museum hosts thousands of guests annually. INK is building a new facility in Oakwood expected to be finished in 2025.
Elachee Nature Science Center, a 1,500-acre nature preserve with 13 miles of hiking and biking trails. Elachee Nature Academy offers preschool and primary education on the Chicopee Woods Nature Preserve. A network of multipurpose biking, walking and running trails connect Gainesville’s Midtown to the University of North Georgia Gainesville campus in the Chicopee Woods conservation area.
BUSINESS PARKS
One of the reasons Gainesville Hall County has been able to attract so many international and domestic manufacturers and other firms is this large number of industrial and business parks that offer the perfect sites for businesses
Elachee Nature Center
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wishing to relocate or expand.
Gainesville-Hall County is home to numerous industrial business parks, with plans for others in various stages. The larger parks that are currently welcoming tenants include:
• Gateway Industrial Center
• Gainesville 85 Business Park
• Gainesville Business Park
• Gainesville Industrial Park West
• Oakwood South Industrial Park
• Tanner’s Creek Business Park
• Mountain View Industrial Park
• Hagan Creek Development
• Interstate Ridge Commerce Park
• Chicopee Woods Industrial Park
• ProCare Business Park
• Golden Park Commerce Center
• ProLogis Buford Park
• Friendship Business Park
• Gainesville Industrial Park North
• Gainesville Industrial Park South
• Airport Industrial Park
• Atlas Industrial Park
• Centennial Industrial Park
• Oakbrook Industrial Park
• Raceway Technology Park
TOP EMPLOYERS IN HALL COUNTY
Northeast Georgia Medical Center, 12,000
Gold Creek Foods, 4,000
Kubota Manufacturing of America, 3,580
Fieldale Farms Corp., 2,375
Pilgrim’s, 1,760
Fox Factory, 1,700
Mar-Jac Poultry Inc., 1,300
ZF Gainesville LLC, 600
Mars Wrigley, 1,200
Cottrell, 1,100
Walmart, 865
King’s Hawaiian Bakery East, 750
Longstreet Clinic, P.C., 750
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by reserving 10 percent of profits for charitable causes each year. In 2023, the Syfan Gives program began a new tradition with the Syfan Supports Rally | 5K and Fun Run, raising thousands for a childhood cancer research grant. Syfan also donated funds toward a new inclusive playground for children of all abilities at Wauka Mountain Academy.
In Gainesville-Hall County TRANSPORTATION
Gainesville Hall County’s easy access to major transportation corridors keeps the flow of commerce moving between area businesses in the world. Interstates 985, 85, 285 and Georgia Highways 316 and 400 are only a short drive away, connecting Hall County to the South’s largest city, Atlanta, as well as to regional powerhouses such as Athens, Georgia, and Greenville, South Carolina.
The growing population means that transportation issues are very important. The Gainesville-Hall Metropolitan Planning Organization (GHMPO) has developed a long-range transportation plan to address transit, air-quality issues and encouragement of bike and pedestrian transportation alternatives.
ROADS
Interstate 985 directly links to
Gainesville-Hall County providing convenient access to Interstate 85 and the markets in metro Atlanta and South Carolina. Interstate 985 transitions into State Route 365, a route that provides scenic access to the North Georgia mountains.
Various Gainesville Hall County transportation agencies work together with the Georgia Department of Transportation on corridor-widening connectors and interstate exchanges. A multi-use trail system facilitates and encourages non-motorized transportation options for a more sustainable green environment.
HALL AREA TRANSIT
Hall Area Transit is a public transportation system that operates 22 passenger vans as part of a rideshare service
known as WeGo. Using a smartphone application, riders can arrange for trips to stops throughout Hall County. 770-503-3333
gainesville.org/520/wego
LOGISTICS SERVICES
According to the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce logistics study, 76 logistics service businesses employ 4,800. The industry continues to grow through such companies as Agile Cold Storage and Eskimo Cold Storage, which are planning expansions. CJ Logistics America, a subsidiary of Koreanbased CJ Foodville, is developing a 270,000-square-foot cold-chain logistics facility storage warehouse in GainesvilleHall County. Agile Cold Storage developed an automated freezer and cold storage operation that will add more than
Logistics
$100 million in new investment and 50 new full-time positions. The demand is such that Lanier Technical College and University of North Georgia have implemented new programs to provide degrees, training and specialized skills needed by logistics service providers and other businesses.
RAIL
Norfolk Southern and CSX Transportation provide Hall County with commercial rail connections across North America. Norfolk Southern operates a mainline through Hall County while CSX maintains daily schedules between Hall County and the main line in Athens, Georgia. Piggyback freight service is only 55 miles away in Atlanta. Passenger rail is available via Amtrak, which has a station in Gainesville along the crescent route that stretches from New Orleans to New York City.
PORTS
The interstate highways offer direct access to the port cities of Savannah and Brunswick, Georgia, as well as Charleston, South Carolina, providing deep water ports equipped to handle any business shipping need.
The Blue Ridge Connector, Georgia’s newest and largest inland terminal, is under development on 104 acres in the Gateway Industrial Centre near Ga. Highway 365. Set to open in 2026, the new inland port will be operated by the Georgia Ports Authority and served by Norfolk Southern.
AIR
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport provides more than 2,700 domestic and international flights daily and puts the GainesvilleHall area within a two-hour flight of 80% of the U.S. population. Gainesville is a one-hour drive from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta international Airport via I-985/Georgia 365 to I-85 South, or via GA 400 to I-85 south.
The city of Gainesville’s Lee Gilmer Memorial Airport offers two runways — 5,500 feet and 4,000 feet — and is capable of handling corporate jets and private aircraft. Fly-in meetings can be held at the Lee Gilmer conference room. gainesville.org, 770-535-6882
175 Nopone Road Suite B, Gainesville 770-532-3311, ext. 181
CITY GOVERNMENTS
Gainesville
300 Henry Ward Way 770-535-6860, gainesville.org
Gainesville Convention and Visitors Bureau
300 Henry Ward Way, Suite 100 770-531-2664
exploregainesville.org
Public Works, Sanitation
300 Henry Ward Way, Suite 202
Gainesville, 770-535-6882
gainesville.org
Braselton 4982 Ga. 53, 706-654-3915
braselton.net
Buford
2300 Buford Highway 770-945-6761
cityofbuford.com
Clermont
Downtown
Gainesville
109 King St.
770-983-7568
clermontga.com
Flowery Branch
5410 Pine St., 770-967-6371
flowerybranchga.org
Gillsville
6288 Ga. 52, 770-869-9000
gillsvillega.com
Oakwood 4035 Walnut Circle 770-534-2365
cityofoakwood.net
Lula
6055 Main St., 770-869-3801
cityoflula.com
PUBLIC SAFETY
Emergency Management
470 Crescent Drive
Gainesville, 770-531-6838
hallcounty.org
Hall County Fire Services
470 Crescent Drive
Gainesville, 770-531-6838
hallcounty.org
Hall County Sheriff’s Office
2859 Browns Bridge Road
Gainesville, 770-531-6900
hallcountysheriffsoffice.org
District Attorney’s Office
Hall County Courthouse, 225 Green St. SE, Gainesville 770-531-6965
Clerk of Courts
Hall County Courthouse
225 Green St. SE
Gainesville, 770-531-7025
Gainesville Police Department
701 Queen City Parkway
Gainesville, 770-534-5252
gainesville.org
Gainesville Fire Department
725 Pine St., Gainesville 770-534-3612
gainesville.org
Flowery Branch Police Department
5270 Railroad Ave., Flowery Branch, 770-967-6336
flowerybranchga.org/police
Oakwood Police Department
4035 Walnut Circle, Oakwood 770-534-2364
cityofoakwood.net/police.aspx
Burn permits
770-536-2442
Nursing Education, Lanier Technical College
Georgia Poison Control 800-222-1222
EDUCATION
Hall County Schools
711 Green St., Gainesville 770-534-1080, hallco.org
Gainesville City Schools
508 Oak St. NW, Gainesville 770-536-5275, gcssk12.net
Buford City Schools 2625 Sawnee Ave., Buford 770-945-5035, bufordcityschools.org
Riverside Preparatory Academy 2001 Riverside Drive, Gainesville 770-532-6251, riversidemilitary.com
Lakeview Academy 796 Lakeview Drive, Gainesville 770-532-4383, lakeviewacademy.com
Lanier Christian Academy 5285 Strickland Road, Flowery Branch 678-828-8350, lanierchristianacademy.org
Lanier Technical College 2535 Lanier Tech Drive, Gainesville 770-533-7000, laniertech.edu
Brenau University
500 Washington St. SE, Gainesville 770-534-6299, brenau.edu
University of North Georgia — Gainesville 3820 Mundy Mill Road, Oakwood 678-717-3639, ung.edu
GEORGIA STATE GOVERNMENT
Department of Labor 2756 Atlanta Highway Gainesville, 770-535-5484 dol.georgia.gov
Division of Family and Children Services 970 McEver Road, Gainesville, 770-532-5298, dfcs.georgia.gov
HEALTH CARE
Northeast Georgia Medical Center 743 Spring St., Gainesville 770-219-9000, nghs.com
Northeast Georgia Medical Center Braselton
1400 River Place, Braselton 770-848-8000, nghs.com/braselton
Hall County Health Department
1290 Athens St., Gainesville 770-531-5600
Northeast Georgia Physicians Group Urgent Care Gainesville, 770-219-7777 Braselton, 770-848-6195
DRIVER’S SERVICES
New residents are required to obtain a Georgia drivers license within 30 days of establishing a permanent residence. Georgia Department of Drivers Services
543 Atlanta Highway, Cumming 770-887-2363, sawnee.com City of Buford 2300 Buford Highway, Buford 678-889-4600, cityofbuford.com
WATER AND SEWER
The city of Gainesville owns and operates the largest public water supply, waste water treatment and distribution system within Hall County. The Gainesville Department of Water Resources maintains more than 1,600 miles of underground water and sewer pipeline with a water capacity is 35 MGD and wastewater capacity of 17 MGD.
In addition to potable water and sanitary sewer services, the city also provides operation and maintenance and capital improvement on the stormwater system within the city limits of Gainesville.
757 Queen City Parkway, SW, Gainesville 770-535-6878, gainesville.org
The city of Buford provides water and sewer service to its residents with a water capacity of 2 MGD and wastewater capacity of 2 MGD.
The city of Flowery Branch has the capacity to treat 400,000 gallons per day of wastewater discharged to the lake and 510,000 discharged to the spray fields.
5572 Atlanta Highway, Flowery Branch 770-967-2151, flowerybranchga.org/ww
The city of Lula Utilities Department can treat up to 380,000 gallons per day of wastewater.
6055 Main St., Lula 770-869-3801, cityoflula.com
SOLID WASTE
Curbside pickup is provided within the city of Gainesville twice a week for household garbage/general rubbish and once a week for recyclables, at a
low monthly fee. Outside the city of Gainesville, private contractors offer residential and commercial waste collection. Residents of Hall County may use any of the 12 compactor sites throughout the area, where recycling containers are provided in some parts of Hall County.
Gainesville Solid Waste Division 263 Alta Vista Road, Gainesville 770-532-0493, gainesville.org/solid-waste
Recycling Center, 1008 Chestnut St. Gainesville, 770-535-8284 hallcounty.org
Natural gas
Liberty Utilities
855-216-6305, libertyutilities.com
Atlanta Gas Light Company 877-427-4321 (gas emergencies only) atlantagaslight.com
City of Buford 678-889-4600, cityofbuford.com/gas.aspx
TELEPHONE, INTERNET, CABLE
AT&T
885 Dawsonville Highway NW, Suite 1110, Gainesville Residential service 800-288-2020, att.com Business, 866-620-6000, business.att.com
Charter Spectrum Communications 867 Dawsonville Highway #820, Gainesville, 866-874-2389 spectrum.com
Comcast Xfinity 800-934-6489, xfinity.com
PET REGISTRATION
Dogs, cats and other domesticated animals must be inoculated annually for rabies and wear proof of vaccination at all times. City and county ordinances require that dogs be leashed and under the control of the owner at all times.
Hall County Animal Control
770-531-6830
Hall County Animal Shelter 1688 Barber Road, Gainesville 678-450-1587, hallcounty.org/ 276/Animal-Services
Humane Society of Northeast Georgia 845 W. Ridge Road, Gainesville 770-532-6617, humanesocietyofnortheastgeorgia.com
MEDIA COMMUNICATIONS
Radio
WBCX-FM 89.1, Brenau University (eclectic) 770-538-4709, brenau.edu
As Gainesville’s premier university, we prepare students through the doctoral level to excel as leaders who live extraordinary lives and make a lasting difference in their communities. { Learn more at
Leaf.
At Northeast Georgia Health System (NGHS), our team cares for more than 1 million people across the region through five hospital campuses and a variety of other locations.
Locations convenient to Hall County include:
Hospitals – Northeast Georgia Medical Center Gainesville and Northeast Georgia Medical Center Braselton – with services including Heart & Vascular, Cancer Treatment, Orthopedics, Emergency Care and more
Medical Office Buildings – dozens of physician offices representing multiple specialties come together in one building for your convenience, including the Braselton Surgery Center
Northeast Georgia Physicians Group – more than 500 providers represent 25 specialties at more than 65 locations including: Braselton, Chestnut Mountain, Clermont, Flowery Branch, Gainesville and Oakwood
Visit ngpg.org to find a physician or advanced practice professional near you.
Urgent Care – nine locations for treatment of minor injuries and illnesses including: Braselton and Gainesville
Imaging Centers – six locations including: Braselton and Gainesville
Georgia Heart Institute – Cardiovascular specialists at 15 locations including Braselton, Buford, Cumming and Hamilton Mill
Visit nghs.com/heart to find a provider near you
Long Term Care Centers – New Horizons Limestone and New Horizons Lanier Park, both in Gainesville
Rehabilitation Centers – seven locations for physical, speech and occupational therapy including: Braselton and Gainesville
Mental Health and Substance Abuse Treatment Center – Gainesville’s dedicated treatment center for adolescents and adults: Laurelwood
