Whether you are buying or selling, I would love the honor of interviewing with you. As your REALTOR®, I will get to know you and what you want, and we will go from there. Not only will I hold your hand throughout this process from start to finish, I will also provide you with the contacts you need.
I’ll send you to the same lender I send my children because as your REALTOR®, you are my number one priority.
With my decades of experience in the construction industry as well as real estate, I offer a unique perspective to both buyers and sellers regarding any potential problems or highlights within a property. I have extensive experience with residential and luxury real estate, and as a lifelong native of Hall County, I have a great love for North Georgia. Most importantly, I want you to have a positive experience, knowing this is likely your largest asset. We will take on big things together and find joy on the journey! Once the transaction is closed, I will continue supporting your dreams as your lifelong REALTOR® and friend.
FEATURED ON THE COVER:
What could be more iconic of Hall County than chickens? Not much. As the poultry capital of the world, chickens have worked their way into the local culture as well as the local industry. Photographer Amanda Hamlin captures this perfectly with her son and his pet chicken at their family home. Find her online at amandahamlinphotography.com.
YOUR GUIDE TO MAKING
HALL COUNTY HOME
SERVICES
Get registered and hook up those utilities
COMMUNITIES
Hall County includes several distinct areas
GOVERNMENT
Keep track of who represents your area
EDUCATION
Enroll your kids or teens in local schools and colleges RECREATION Find things to do around the area DINING Sample to local flavors and find your new favorite BREWERIES
Unwind with drinks and activies at local breweries 5 6 8 12 14 18 26
Welcome to Hall County! From Lake Lanier to the North Georgia mountains to the restaurant scene on the Gainesville square, your new home has much to offer. Hall County is ideally located just far enough from Atlanta to escape the pace of big city life but close enough to enjoy its conveniences.
Hall County is a place where you can get to know your neighbors, whether you live in the suburbs of South Hall, the rolling hills of North Hall or somewhere in between.
The Times has served this community since 1947, and we hope you’ll learn to depend on us as a source of local, unbiased news about your community. Inside these pages, we’ve presented a guide to the best local places to eat and parks to enjoy as well as provided useful information like who represents you in government and where to go to update your driver’s license. We hope what follows will help you connect with your new community and feel at home.
To get invested in this community and stay up to date on its news, you can sign up for free email newsletters at gainesvilletimes.com/newsletters. You can also view our subscription offers, both print and digital, at gainesvilletimes.com/subscribe.
John Chambliss Managing Editor The Times
Publisher Stephanie Woody
Managing Editor
John Chambliss
Life Editor
Greg Finan Jr.
Night Editor
Michael Buckelew
Photography Scott Rogers
Director of Revenue
Margie Rogers
Advertising Director Jessica Shirley
Account Executives
Jenna Wellborn
Ashley Baez
Design/Prepress Department
Chelsea Sunshine, Lead Graphic Designer
April Seymour, Prepress Coordinator
Courtney Smith, Graphic Designer
Subscribing to your local paper is the perfect way to stay connected to your community. Contact The Times today to set up your subscription.
Moving here for business? Let us help you get the word out. Email us at marketing@gainesvilletimes.com
The Georgia Department of Driver Services is located on Aviation Boulevard in Gainesville.
GET A DRIVER’S LICENSE
New state residents must apply for a Georgia driver license within 30 days of becoming a resident. All of the Georgia Department of Drivers Services centers can transfer an out-of-state license to a Georgia driver license. Applicants who are at least 18 years old and surrender a valid out-of-state license, or one that has expired in less than two years, do not have to take a driver’s exam, but will need a vision exam.
Georgia Department of Drivers Services: 1010 Aviation Blvd., Gainesville, 678-413-8400, dds.ga.gov
REGISTER YOUR VEHICLE
Moving within Georgia
An address change can be submitted at https://eservices.drives. ga.gov or by visiting the Hall County Tax Commissioner’s Office on the first floor of the Hall County Government Center at 2875 Browns Bridge Road, Gainesville. Be ready to present a valid Georgia driver’s license or Georgia ID card with the current Hall County address.
You can also email questions to tagoffice@hallcounty.org. The mailing address is Hall County Tax Commissioner, P.O. Box 1579, Gainesville GA 30503.
Submit a change of address request within 30 days of establishing residency.
Moving from another state
Within 30 days of establishing residency, visit the tax commissioner’s office on the first floor of the Hall County Government Center at 2875 Browns Bridge Road, Gainesville, and bring the following documentation:
Owner’s driver’s license with new Hall County address
Proof of valid Georgia insurance
Proof of ownership, such as original title or current registration from previous state.
Note, title ad valorem tax is due at time of registration and is assessed at 3% of the vehicle’s fair market value.
More info: hallcountytax.org
REGISTER TO VOTE
In Georgia, voters do not register to vote by party. Voters in a primary can select one party’s ballot they wish to cast.
Online: registertovote.sos.ga.gov. Must have a driver’s license or identification card issued by the Georgia Department of Driver Services.
In person: New residents can register at the Hall County Elections Office at the Hall County Government Center at 2875 Browns Bridge Road in Gainesville. Learn more at www.hallcounty.org/249/Elections.
SET UP UTILITIES
Electric
Georgia Power: 888-660-5890, georgiapower.com
Jackson EMC: 800-462-3691, jacksonemc.com
Sawnee EMC: 770-887-2363, www.sawnee.com
City of Buford: 770-945-6761, cityofbuford.com
Water, sewer
Gainesville: 770-535-6878, gainesville.org
Buford: 770-945-6761, cityofbuford.com
Flowery Branch: 770-967-6371, flowerybranchga.org
Lula: 770-869-3801, lula.georgia.gov
Natural gas
Visit psc.ga.gov/utilities/natural-gas/ to learn more about selecting a provider and see a list of certified marketers
Telephone, internet, cable
AT&T: 800-288-2020, att.com
Charter Spectrum Communications: 855-366-7132, spectrum.com
Comcast Xfinity: 800-934-6489, xfinity.com
Solid waste
Gainesville: Curbside pickup for household garbage, general rubbish and/or recycling is provided.
Hall County: There are 12 compactor sites and recycling containers throughout the county. Private services are available for a fee.
Red Oak Sanitation: www.sanitation-services.com, 678-455-7819
Waste Management: www.wm.com, 678-277-5014
COMMUNITIES
A woman walks her dog through downtown Gainesville past the blooming cherry trees on the square.
History: Founded 1819, named for Dr. Lyman Hall, a signer of the Declaration of Independence, governor, minister and physician. Formed from land annexed from Franklin and Jackson counties, much of which was settled through a lottery system after the Cherokees and Creeks were forcibly removed from the area
Known for: Lake Lanier, a tourist destination drawing 12 million to its shores, which make up the western border of Hall
CITIES AND TOWNS
Gainesville
Population: 47,265 (2023 census estimate)
Demographics: 59.1% White, 36.4% Hispanic, 15.5% Black, 3.5% Asian
Median household income: $64,163
History: Founded in 1821, named for Edmund P. Gaines, a general in the War of 1812. The city was devastated by tornadoes in 1901 and 1936, the latter killing more than 200 people and still one of the deadliest in U.S. history. After the city was rebuilt, President Franklin D. Roosevelt visited in 1938 to dedicate the new courthouse; Roosevelt
Square now bears his name.
Known for: “Poultry Capital of the World,” marked by numerous poultry processing plants and the chicken statue at Poultry Park at Academy Street and Jesse Jewell Parkway. Also known as “the hospitality capital of the world,” so designated by NBC broadcaster Charlie Jones during the 1996 Olympic rowing and canoe/kayak competition on Lake Lanier.
Braselton
Population: 15,538(2023 census estimate)
Demographics: 84.2% White, 8.1% Hispanic, 5.2% Black, 1.9% Asian
Median household income: $111,080
History: Founded 1916, named for farmer Harrison Braselton
Known for: Road Atlanta speedway, site of the annual Petit Le Mans and other championship road races; Chateau Elan winery and resort where Hall, Jackson and Gwinnett meet.
Buford
Population: 18,273(2023 census estimate)
Demographics: 57.8% White, 31.2% Hispanic, 12.5% Black, 4.1% Asian
Median household income: $68,165
History: Founded 1872, named for railroad owner Col. Algernon S. Buford.
Known for: The former Bona Allen Tannery, for decades one of the nation’s largest leather tanneries for saddles, shoes and harnesses, givScott Rogers The Times
ing Buford the nickname “Leather City.”
Flowery Branch
Population: 11,607(2023 census estimate)
Demographics: 78.3% White, 12.4% His panic, 5.2% Black, 1.7% Asian
Median household income: $93,684
History: Founded 1874; name derived from Cherokee term “Nattagaska,” which translated to “Blossom Creek,” and later to “Flowery Branch.”
Known for: Headquarters and training camp home of the NFL’s Atlanta Falcons
Oakwood
Population: 6,412 (2023 census estimate)
Demographics: 65.6% White, 33.8% His panic, 10.3% Black, 3.9% Asian
Median household income: $60,696
History: Founded 1903. Named for use of oak wood for train fuel during the 1800s.
Known for: Home of University of North Georgia Gainesville campus
Lula
Population: 2,840 (2023 census estimate)
Demographics: Not available for cities with a population under 5,000
Median household income: $57,865
History: Founded 1876, named for the daughter of railroad engineer Ferdinand Phinizy whose name was spelled “Lulah.”
Merged with nearby town of Belton in 1956.
Known for: Being a railroad hub between Athens and Atlanta, celebrated at the annual Lula Railroad Days Festival.
Clermont
6/6/2024, 12:32:22 PM
Population: 1,125 (2022 census)
Demographics: Not available for cities with a population under 5,000
Median household income: $96,875
History: Founded 1913, originally known as “Dip” because the postmaster wanted a short name he could write on mail cancellations. The name Clermont refers to the clear view of the surrounding mountains.
Known for: The Chattahoochee School, established in 1901 following the county’s earliest known school, Concord Academy.
Gillsville
Population: 290 (2023 census estimate)
Demographics: Not available for cities with a population under 5,000
Median household income: $74,313
History: Chartered 1901, but town dates back to 1784 as Hall’s oldest settlement, originally named “Stonethrow.” Later named for postmaster Isaiah Gill in 1832.
Known for: Pottery, specifically the Hewell family’s pottery shop and annual Turnin’ and Burnin’ festival and signature crafts.
Downtown Flowery Branch fills with people June 22, 2023, as the city celebrates the grand opening of the newly redesigned and improved area that includes a new streetscape, and the farmers market alley, which leads to the new farmers market pavilion.
Statewide elections are set for November 2024, with new representation taking office in early 2025.
Below are the representatives in office through the end of the year.
Here are some key dates in the 2024 elections:
Last day to register: Oct. 7
Early voting: Starts Oct. 14, ends Nov. 1
Last day to submit absentee ballot application: Oct. 25
Election Day: Nov. 5
Runoff date: Dec. 3
To learn what district you live in, visit mvp. sos.ga.gov.
UNITED STATES
Hall County is part of the U.S. House 9th District, traditionally one of the most conservative in the country. Meanwhile, the state’s two Senate seats were flipped to Democrat control in the 2020 elections. Sen. Raphael Warnock defeated Herschel Walker in a 2023 runoff election.
Sen. Jon Ossoff
Party: Democrat
Contact: ossoff.senate.gov/contact
Status: Sworn in 2021, up for reelection November 2026
Sen. Raphael Warnock
Party: Democrat
Contact: warnock.senate.gov/contact
Status: Sworn in 2021, up for reelection November 2028
Rep. Andrew Clyde
District: 9, covering much of Northeast Georgia, including Hall County Party: Republican
Contact: clyde.house.gov/contact
Status: Sworn in 2021, up for reelection November 2024
GEORGIA
Hall County is represented in the state legislature by two state senators and four state representatives, each elected to two-year terms. The state legislature convenes beginning each January for a 40-day session.
Sen. Shelly Echols
District: 49, covering most of Hall County Party: Republican
Email: shelly.echols@senate.ga.gov
Status: Sworn in 2023, her term will end Jan. 13, 2025.
Sen. Bo Hatchett
District: 50, covering parts of Hall, Jackson and White counties and Banks, Habersham, Stephens, Franklin, Rabun and Towns counties Party: Republican
Email: bo.hatchett@senate.ga.gov
Status: Sworn in 2021, up for reelection in 2024.
Rep. Lee Hawkins
District: 27, northern Hall County and part of Lumpkin County
Party: Republican
Email: lee.hawkins@house.ga.gov
Status: Sworn in 2013, up for reelection in November 2024
Rep. Brent Cox
District: 28, western Hall County and part of Forsyth County
Party: Republican
Email: brent.cox@house.ga.gov
Status: Sworn in 2023, up for reelection in November 2024
Rep. Matt Dubnik
District: 29, Gainesville, Oakwood and parts of western Hall County Party: Republican
Email: matt.dubnik@house.ga.gov
Status: Sworn in 2017, up for reelection in November 2024
Rep. Derrick McCollum
District: 30, Flowery Branch and parts of southern Hall County Party: Republican
Email: derrick.mccollum@house.ga.gov
The legislature meets 40 days beginning each January at the state Capitol in Atlanta.
Status: Sworn in 2023, up for reelection in November 2024
Rep. Emory Dunahoo
District: 31, eastern Hall County and part of Jackson County Party: Republican
Email: emory.dunahoo@house.ga.gov
Status: Sworn in 2011 to District 30, up for reelection in November 2024
Rep. David Clark
District: 100, southern Hall County, northern Gwinnett County, part of Forsyth County Party: Republican
Email: david.clark@house.ga.gov
Status: Sworn in 2023, up for reelection in 2024.
Rep. Soo Hong
District: 103, southernmost Hall County, northern Gwinnett County Party: Republican
Email: soo.hong@house.ga.gov
Status: Sworn in 2023, up for reelection in 2024.
HALL COUNTY
Board of Commissioners
Four members are elected to four-year terms by district plus an at-large chairman elected countywide.
Chairman: Richard Higgins, rhiggins@ hallcounty.org
District 1, South Hall: Kathy Cooper, kcooper@hallcounty.org
District 2, West Hall: Billy Powell,
GOVERNMENT
bpowell@hallcounty.org
District 3, North and East Hall: Gregg Poole, gpoole@hallcounty.org
District 4, Gainesville: Jeff Stowe, jstowe@hallcounty.org
Board of Education
Post 1: Debra Smith, debra.smith@hallco. org
Post 2: Brian Sloan, brian.sloan@hallco. org
Post 3: Chairman Craig Herrington, craig. herrington@hallco.org
Post 4: Vice Chairman Nath Morris, nath. morris@hallco.org
At-large: Bill Thompson, bill.thompson@ hallco.org
Planning Commission
These members are appointed by Hall County commissioners: Chris Braswell, Frank Sosebee, Stan Hunt, Johnny Varner, Gina Pilcher
GAINESVILLE
City Council
Five-member City Council elected at large and mayor, all elected to four-year terms.
Mayor: Sam Couvillon, scouvillon@
gainesvillega.gov
Ward 1: Danny Dunagan, ddunagan@ gainesvillega.gov
District 1: Chairman Andy Stewart, andy. stewart@gcssk12.net
District 2: Kris Nordholz, kris.nordholz@ gcssk12.net
District 3: Stacy Young, stacy.young@ gcssk12.net
District 4: Heather Ramsey, heather. ramsey@gcssk12.net
District 5: Steven Pettit, steven.pettit@ gcssk12.net
Planning and Appeals Board
These members are appointed by City Council: Doug Carter, Ryan Thompson, Eddie Martin Sr., Kelvin Simmons, Jane Fleming, Rick Young and Barbara Brooks.
Other municipalities
Flowery Branch: Mayor Ed Asbridge and council members Chris Mundy, Joe Mezzanotte, William McDaniel, Joe Anglin and Oliver McClellan. Learn more at www.flowerybranchga.org.
Oakwood: Mayor Lamar Scroggs and council members Todd Wilson, Sheri Clark Millwood, Pat Jones, Rhonda Wood and Stephen Hendrix. Learn more at www.cityofoakwood.net.
Lula: Mayor Joe Thomas and council members Tony Cornett, Denise Shockley, Chris Lewallen and Garnett Smith. Learn more at www.cityoflula.com.
Braselton: Mayor Kurt Ward and council members Becky Richardson, Richard Harper, Tom Logan and James Murphy. Learn more at www.braselton.net.
Buford: Commission Chairman Phillip Beard, Vice Chairman L. Chris Burge and Commissioner Bradley W. Weeks. Learn more at www.cityofbuford.com
Clermont: Mayor James Nix and council members Seth Weaver, James Castleberry, Marcia Kesler, Amanda Nix and John Brady. Learn more at www.clermontga.com.
Gillsville: Mayor Wade Dale and council members Todd Dale, JT Perry, Keith Segars, Rickey Sutton and Todd Dale. Learn more at gillsvillega.com.
EDUCATION
PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Hall County Schools
The county school system includes seven traditional high schools, eight middle schools and 20 elementary schools. Many of these schools have specialty programs like STEM academies and international baccalaureate programs or specific focuses on arts or world languages. Families can apply to attend a Hall school outside their attendance zone, though in most cases they must provide their own transportation. Families who live outside of the county can apply to one of the schools, but if accepted must provide transportation and pay tuition. A virtual school is also available for third through 12th graders who qualify. The upper grade levels also offer these specialty schools.
Lanier College & Career Academy: This unique school offers various pathways to help meet the needs of local businesses, such as trades, hospitality and personal care services. Students can earn professional certifications and industry credentials as they run their own businesses open to the public, such as a bistro and graphic design.
Howard E. Ivester Early College: A dual enrollment campus that puts college professors in the classroom with high school students, who can earn a high school diploma at the same time as college credits. Open to qualified juniors and seniors and some sophomores.
The Foundry: This nontraditional school focuses on character development and a curriculum that helps students learn to be successful.
2024-2025 school year: Aug. 2-May 23
More info: www.hallco.org
Gainesville City Schools
The Gainesville City School System includes six elementary schools, two middle schools — Gainesville Middle School East Campus and West Campus — and Gainesville High School, serving residents within the city limits. Those residing outside the city limits can apply for enrollment at an annual tuition rate of $800 for the first student and $700 for each additional student. Parents can choose an elementary school within their district cluster. One cluster includes Centennial Arts Academy, Enota Multiple Intelligences Academy, Fair Street International Academy and New Holland Leadership Academy. The second cluster includes Gainesville Exploration Academy and Mundy Mill Arts Academy.
2024-2025 school year: Aug. 6-May 21
More info: gcssk12.net
Buford City Schools
The Buford system touches the southern border of Hall County at the Gwinnett County line. Those living outside the city limits can also apply for enrollment in this city system. 2024-2025 school year: Aug. 2-May 22
Scott Rogers The Times
Hall County School Board Chairman Craig Herrington gives remarks March 27, 2024, at the 17-acre site of a new Hall County Schools elementary school. The school, located on McEver Road, is set to replace McEver Arts Academy and Oakwood Elementary School with enough room for 1,025 students.
More info: bufordcityschools.org
Mountain Education Charter High School
This public school with a site in Hall County offers evening, self-paced courses leading to a high school diploma. Courses can be completed on a part-time basis and transferred to another public high school. Learn more at www.mymec. org/sites/hall
PRIVATE SCHOOLS
Lakeview Academy: This private school in Gainesville serves students preschool all the way to 12th grade. It’s an independent collegepreparatory school with a rigorous curriculum and many extracurricular options including sports at the GHSA level. Learn more at lakeviewacademy.com.
Lanier Christian Academy: In South Hall, this K-12 private school provides a setting centered on faith as well as academic excellence. It also offers arts and athletics opportunities. Learn more at lanierchristianacademy.org.
Riverside Preparatory Academy: A boarding school in Gainesville for boys sixth through 12th grades from the U.S. and several other countries. The setting is focused on rigor and accountability in a military-style setting and offers extracurricular activities including sports under the Georgia Independent School Association. Learn more at riversideprep.org
Elachee Nature Academy: A nature-focused school offering preschool through second grade. Curriculum focuses on discovery and inquiry in the outdoors. Learn more at elachee.org/natureacademy.
Maranatha Christian Academy: In Oakwood,
this school serves students preschool to 12th grade from Christian households. The Bible is not merely a part of its core curriculum, but is the “foundation of all truth,” according to its website. Learn more at mcageorgia.com.
Chattahoochee Christian School: This K-8 faith-based school located in Clermont uses Bible curriculum from Positive Action for Christ, supplemented with materials from Bob Jones University Press. Learn more at chattahoocheechristian.org.
Academy of Innovation: This Gainesville school offers a personalized approach to teaching children in grades first through 12th, balancing classroom instruction with individualized learning. Learn more at aoiga.com.
Gainesville Homeschool Academy: This K-7 cooperative Christian school meets at the Westminster Presbyterian Church in Gainesville. Classroom instruction is provided three days a week with two more instructional days at home. Learn more at gainesvillehomeschoolacademy. com
AFTER-SCHOOL CARE
After-school options are offered at most public schools between the YMCA and Boys & Girls Clubs.
YMCA: Offered at several Hall elementary schools for $70 a week for nonmembers and $60 for members, plus a one-time $25 fee. Learn more at gamountainsymca.org.
Boys & Girls Clubs: Offered in a dozen schools in Hall County and Gainesville with a $50 annual registration fee and varying weekly fees from $20-$75, though offered for free at a number of schools and no child is turned away due to inability to pay. Families can request reduced or waived fees if there is financial
hardship. The club also offers free after-school programs for members for Gainesville middle and high school students at the Teen Point Center from 3:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. Learn more at boysgirlsclubs.com.
PRESCHOOL
Georgia Pre-K is offered at several locations throughout Hall County including private day care facilities and elementary schools. For more information, view the list at families.decal.ga.gov. Private pre-K is also offered at numerous locations, including churches and day care facilities in Hall County. Some preschool programs were previously mentioned under the private schools listing. Others include the following:
Gainesville elementary schools including Fair Street, Centennial, New Holland, Enota, Gainesville and Mundy Mill
Hall County elementary schools including White Sulphur, Lyman Hall, McEver, Chicopee Woods, Sardis, Tadmore, World Language Academy
Joyland Child Development Center, Gainesville and Clermont
First Presbyterian Church Child Development Center, Gainesville Creative Learners Child Development Center, Gainesville
E.E. Butler Headstart, Gainesville Gainesville Academy, Gainesville Magic Years of Learning, Gainesville Steam Academy of Gainesville
The Academy Child Development Center, Oakwood Discovery Point No. 65, Flowery Branch Storybrook Academy, Flowery Branch
YMCA Learning Center, Murrayville Chestnut Mountain Academy, Flowery Branch
COLLEGES
Brenau University
The private university in the heart of Gainesville includes The Women’s College at Brenau University and four additional colleges that offer degree programs in numerous liberal arts disciplines plus health-related fields such as nursing and occupational and physical therapy. The university was founded in 1878 and includes a 55-acre downtown campus, the Burd Center for the Performing Arts, Pearce Auditorium, five art galleries, and satellite locations such as the Brenau Downtown Center, Brenau East at Featherbone Communiversity and New Holland sports complex. The Lynn J. Darby School of Psychology and Adolescent Counseling occupies the second floor of the Gainesville Renaissance building on the square.
More info: brenau.edu
Lanier Technical College
Hall County’s technical college is part of the Technical College System of Georgia and is located at a 95-acre campus in northeast Hall County on Ga. 365. It offers instruction in numerous degree programs in manufacturing, technology, medical, logistics and other fields. It boasts a 100% job placement rate for graduates. The college also provides free classes, both in preparation for the GED/HiSET exams and in English instruction for non-native speakers.
More info: laniertech.edu
University of North Georgia
UNG has several campuses, including a large Gainesville campus that is technically located in Oakwood. Between all its campuses, the university is one of the largest in the state. The Gainesville campus does not offer traditional dorm living, though several nearby apartment complexes cater to this demand. The university offers many associate and four-year degrees in liberal arts, business, math and science, health and education. It has expanded into buildings vacated when Lanier Tech relocated to its site on Ga. 365.
More info: ung.edu
Boys and Girls Club of Lanier members get to be the first riders of the Apocalypso waterslide May 15, 2024, at Lanier Islands. The waterslide is part of the newly re-branded Fins Up! Falls at Lanier Islands. In addition to Apocalypso, three other waterslides are attached to the same tower offering varying intensities for riders.
ENJOY LAKE LANIER
Lake Lanier is one of the most visited lakes in the world, with some 12 million enjoying this jewel north of Atlanta each year. The shores are dotted with parks, many with beaches and swim areas. There are also outfitters that will help get you on the water whether on a kayak, personal watercraft or boat. A Boat Rental Education Certificate is required by law and many outfitters offer the course on their websites, so it can be completed prior to arrival.
Lake Lanier Olympic Park
This park, once the site of rowing and paddling events in the 1996 Summer Olympics, is set on the north end of Lake Lanier and features a public boat launch and courtesy docks along with Clarks Bridge Park beach and picnic areas. Canoes, kayaks and stand-up paddleboards can be rented on the weekends from the Lanier Canoe & Kayak Club.
3105 Clarks Bridge Road, Gainesville
lakelanierolympicvenue.org | 855-5361996
Margaritaville at Lanier Islands
This expansive waterpark and resort includes tiki bars and lakeside restaurants, impressive waterslides and a wave pool along with a beach area. During the colder months, Margaritaville transforms into a winter wonderland with its Lakeside Lights Spectacular and activities like snow tubing and ice skating. 7650 Lanier Islands Parkway, Buford margaritavilleresorts.com/margaritavilleat-lanier-islands
Don Carter State Park
At the north end of Lake Lanier, Don Carter State Park offers an abundance of water recreation like swimming, boating, paddleboarding, fishing and kayaking. Those itching to hike have the choice among several short and long trails, including the 1.5-mile Woodland Loop
and 1-mile Terrapin Cove Trail. 5000 N. Browning Bridge Road, Gainesville gastateparks.org/doncarter | 678-450-7726
Burton Mill Park
The beach here has a view of the University Yacht Club’s boat slips, so expect some boat traffic. The park also has its own boat docks and ramps. Along a shady trail you’ll find some picnic tables. But if you prefer the sun, there are plenty of tables without shade, too. 6555 Yacht Club Road, Flowery Branch
River Forks Park
The beach area here is right beside a playground and covered picnic pavilion. There’s also a boat dock and ramp available for use. A daytime pass to access the park is $5 per car. 3500 Keith Bridge Road, Gainesville
Little Hall Park
The beach is tucked beside forested paths
Scott Rogers The Times
dotted with picnic tables and grills. A tiny playground is nearby. There’s also a facility for fishing tournaments across the parking lot from the beach.
3501 Dawsonville Highway, Gainesville
Holly Park
A small beach is open to the public at Holly Park. The space also provides a small boat ramp and two large pavilions with covered picnic tables and grills. The beach and open water is ideal for spending the day fishing.
2603 Old Thompson Bridge Road, Gainesville
Old Federal Park
To get to this park, you’ll have to travel down a winding road in the woods, but it’s a nice view. There are two beach areas, a boat ramp, a sand volleyball court and benches under the many trees.
6219 Old Federal Road, Flowery Branch
Van Pugh North Park
This park has two beach areas and a pavilion. There is also a playground and swingset for kids to enjoy and a boat ramp.
6838 Gaines Ferry Road, Flowery Branch
PLACES TO VISIT
Jaemor Farms
Thousands flock to this family farm for their large variety of peaches in the summer. In other seasons, the farm offers strawberries, pumpkins and even fresh flowers. Events are often held, including one-day Upick events during each season as well as a corn maze. The market is also worth a visit, featuring a variety of locally made products and foods like soft-serve ice cream and hand pies made with produce from the farm.
This north campus of the Atlanta Botanical Garden is set on 168 acres of woodlands just north of downtown Gainesville. Stroll past daffodils, hydrangeas, poppies, tulips, camellias and other colorful flowers along with art displays. The park also includes a children’s area and features carnivorous plants, climbing areas, a miniature trolley and water elements.
Drivers race during the Petit Le Mans at Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta in Braselton.
Interactive Neighborhood for Kids
Better known as INK, this attraction is set up like a small town, with areas where children and their families can play pretend, such as a grocery store, diner and hair salon. The museum also includes a pottery studio, jungle gym and area where children can use foam blocks to bring their imaginations to life. Admission is $9 per person for anyone older than 2.
999 Chestnut St. SE, Gainesville inkfun.org | 770-536-1900
Mountain Fresh Creamery
Buy a scoop or two of ice cream from the silo at this farm in North Hall. It offers classic flavors like strawberry, chocolate and peaches and cream plus one more special flavor each weekend, all with milk from the local dairy cows. You can also purchase nonhomogenized milk and other local goods from the shop on site.
The artwork appearing in this gallery space is often rotating and includes original art by local artists. There is also a gift shop, classes and workshops. Admission is free, but the center accepts donations.
514 Green St. NE, Gainesville quinlanartscenter.org | 770-536-2575
Road Atlanta
A world-class 2.54-mile road course and site of the Petit Le Mans, one of the nation’s top road-race events.
This venue hosts events such as rodeos, gardening expos and even llama shows. 1855 Calvary Church Road, Gainesville 770-531-6855
Hall County Library System
The local library system houses five locations, including the two-story downtown Gainesville branch and popular Spout Springs branch in Flowery Branch. The system offers story times and other reading programs. Find more information at hallcountylibrary.org.
Northeast Georgia History Center
This center aims to preserve and share regional history through educational programs, community events, exhibits and historic structures like Chief White Path’s cabin and an exhibit dedicated to the 1936 tornado that decimated downtown Gainesville.
322 Academy St., Gainesville negahc.org | 770-297-5900
Photo courtesy Kelsi Miller
RECREATION
SPEND A DAY AT
THE PARK
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers operates many of the parks on Lake Lanier. Hall County also has several parks and community centers offering space for recreational sports, fitness classes and other leisure activities. Gainesville and the smaller cities in the county also have some park facilities. Below are some of the most popular parks away from the lake. For a full list of Hall and Gainesville parks, visit hallcounty.org/308/Parks-Leisure and gainesville.org/365/Parks.
Frances Meadows Aquatic and Community Center
Features: 10-lane indoor competition pool, a four-lane indoor instructional pool, a small waterpark area with waterslides and a lazy river, fitness and wellness centers, lounge, concessions, locker rooms and a playground.
1545 Community Way, Gainesville gainesville.org/frances-meadows | 770-533-5850
Wilshire Trails Park
Features: Playground, stream, walking trails, butterfly garden and pavilion
849 Wilshire Trails Road, Gainesville
City Park
Features: Ballfields, playgrounds and restrooms
549 Glenwood Drive, Gainesville
North Hall Community Center and Park
Features: Community center, baseball fields, batting cages, a track and a multipurpose field, two gymnasiums, a fitness center, meeting space, technology center, cafe and activity rooms.
4175 Nopone Road, Gainesville
East Hall Community Center and Park
Features: 28,000-square-foot multipurpose community center, track, concession stands and restrooms, ballfields, tennis courts, basketball courts, fitness center, indoor elevated walking track, game room, dance room and community meeting rooms.
3911 P Davison Road, Gainesville
Engine 209 Park
Features: Playground, boardwalk, mural, picnic tables and easy access to a historic train built in 1930 and operated until 1959. The train moved from the intersection of Jesse Jewell Parkway and West Academy Street to Midland, where the park is located, in August 2021.
878 Grove St. Gainesville
Midland Greenway
Features: ADA-accessible playground, picnic tables, large grassy areas and access to Highlands to Islands trail.
682 Grove St., Gainesville
Mulberry Creek Community Center and Park
Features: Community center, dog park, playground, basketball courts, fitness center, indoor walking track, dance and meeting rooms.
4491 J M Turk Road, Flowery Branch
Gainesville
Skate Park
Features: Bowls, rails and small covered area for viewing.
636 SW High St., Gainesville
Laurel Park
Features: Mega boat ramp, dog park, 1-mile paved walking trail, ballfields, tennis courts, playground, pavilions, splash pad, restrooms and picnic sites.
3100 Old Cleveland Highway, Gainesville
Alberta Banks Park
Features: Tennis courts, ballfields and the Field of Dreams, an ADA-accessible ballfield.
5575 G. C. Crow Road, Flowery Branch
Cherokee Bluffs Park
Features: A 168-acre park with greenspace, streams and trails along the rocky shoals, a small event and meeting space, an amphitheater, pavilion, playground and dog park.
5867 Blackjack Road, Flowery Branch
Mike Little Fields at
Allen Creek Soccer Complex
Features: Nine soccer fields on 54 acres, including a 2,500-seat stadium, plus practice areas, concession and restroom facilities.
2500 Allen Creek Road, Gainesville
TAKE A WALK
Gainesville may be the small urban center of Hall County, but it’s still home to several forested areas with miles of trails. Get some fresh air beneath the trees in one of these in-town or nearby destinations.
Elachee Nature Science Center
Elachee is a private, nonprofit environmental education center and museum in the 1,440-acre Chicopee Woods Nature Preserve just south of Gainesville proper. The visitor center features a natural history exhibit, where people can learn more about the history and habitats of the Chicopee Woods. Also featured is a live animal room with 25 species of reptiles and amphibians along with other exhibits. Visitors eager to get outside can trek along 8 miles of walking trails that connect the visitor center campus to Elachee’s Aquatic Studies Center at Chicopee
Photo courtesy Elachee Nature Science Center Kids participate in a summer camp at Elachee Nature Science Center.
Lake. Pets are not allowed on the trails. There is a $5 daily parking fee for cars.
Nestled in a residential area of Gainesville, this park includes 2 miles of trails that traverse forest and meadow and run alongside creek and lake. The preserve is one of seven community forests of the Old-Growth Forest Network in the United States.
The multi-use Highlands to Islands trail system includes the Midland Greenway and Rock Creek Greenway in Gainesville and a 16-mile trail section running along Friendship Road. Eventually, the trail system will link downtown Gainesville to Flowery Branch, north to south, and Lake Lanier Islands to Braselton, east to west. highlandstoislands.org
HIT THE LINKS
There are numerous golf courses in North Georgia within a short drive for all levels of play and incomes, including five in Hall.
Internal Medicine
Brent Archer, MD
Ralf G. Augenstein, MD
Scott Barrett, DO
Richard Blatt, MD
Shane Bussler, MD
Darrell Cheek, MD
Paul Chenard, MD
Santhi Chennareddy, MD
Rosemary Chofor, MD
Richard Gomez, MD
Hanna A. Lin, MD
Mubeen Mandani, DO
Hillary Morgan, MD
Ryan M. Nadelson, MD
Justin Pandoo, MD
Birju B. Patel, MD
Mini Shivprasad, MD
Sean Sumner, MD
Golfers enjoy a sunny day on the links March 29, 2024, at Chattahoochee Golf Club.
Chattahoochee Golf Club
301 Tommy Aaron Drive, Gainesville, gainesville.org/chattahoochee-golf-course, 770-532-0066
Chateau Elan
100 Rue Charlemagne, Braselton, chateauelan.com, 678-425-6050
4700 Royal Lakes Drive, Flowery Branch, royallakesgolfcc.com, 770-535-8800
Pulmonology
Craig Brown, MD
Wesley Head, MD
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
Scott Rogers The Times
DINING
Customers place their food orders at Big Burritos Mexican Grill on Wallis Road in Flowery Branch.
LAKESIDE
Skogies
Located inside Gainesville Marina, this restaurant offers outdoor and indoor dining and a menu featuring shrimp, crab and Skogies’ signature grouper sandwich. Open seasonally, the restaurant also delivers food out to boats docking at the marina.
As the name suggests, this lakeside restaurant 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.
Several restaurants are located at the Margaritaville resort, including the Land Shark
Bar and Grill for casual American cuisine and the License to Chill Bar for convenient handcrafted beverage options. There’s also the Tiki Bar, Frank and Lola’s Pizzeria and the Feeding Frenzy Fried Shack at the beachside Chill Zone.
This floating tiki bar and grill is open during the summer at Port Royale Marina and primarily serves seafood, sandwiches and salads.
8800 Port Royale Drive, Gainesville pelicanpetes.com | 770-887-5715
Pig Tales
This outdoor bar offers classics like pulled pork sandwiches and burgers along with cocktails, frozen drinks and its signature Tales Ale, a Kolsch-style beer with notes of pear, on draft.
Order your gyro or falafel wrap at the counter and be ready for surprisingly vibrant flavors from this Greek-owned restaurant. Get more adventurous with a plate of moussaka or one of the pasta dishes or soups.
215 Jesse Jewell Parkway SE, Gainesville facebook.com/alphagyrogrill | 678-696-8380
Atlanta Highway
Seafood Market
This popular seafood joint features Cajun specialties like étouffée, gumbo and po’ boys. The restaurant’s adjoining fish market offers freshly caught seafood including crab, shrimp, scallops, mahi-mahi, gulf snapper and grouper.
227 Atlanta Highway, Gainesville atlantahighwayseafood.com | 770-287-8277
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Bilingual staff Accepts most private insurances, Medicaid, and Medicare
• Wellness/Sick Exams
• Vaccinations
• Laboratory Tests
In-House
• Puppy/Kitten Plan
• Basic Plan
• Express Plan
• Comprehensive Plan
DINING
Big Burritos Mexican Grill
Embrace family, mariachi music and loads of flavor at this restaurant. Authentic Mexican dishes include enchiladas verdes, carne asada and birria de res, beef that’s been braised for hours in a “secret sauce.” Customers can also opt to build their own burrito, which some have described as “the size of an alley cat.” Yes, these burritos are big.
Travel back in time at this diner that serves up one of the best hamburgers in town. Sizzling on the flattop in front of you with fries being cooked in oil nearby, a burger at The Collegiate is an American classic. Order one with a patty or two, add some cheese and ketchup — lettuce, tomato and onion if you like.
220 Main St. SW, Gainesville facebook.com/collegiategrill | 678-989-2280
Easy B’s Market and Cafe
Tucked inside Limestone Place, a mixeduse mercantile and boutique, Easy B’s Market and Cafe offers baked goods and chef-inspired takeaway meals — both ready to eat and takeand-bake — featuring fresh ingredients and flavors from around the world.
Looking for some good ol’ Southern comfort food? Longstreet has you covered. The longtime staple is the place to go if you’re looking for a meat-and-three. 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.
Roughly a mile from the Hall/Dawson county line, this hole-in-the-wall takeaway spot offers small-batch, hickory-smoked pulled pork, barbecue chicken, brisket and baby back ribs, along with rotating specials, house-made sides and desserts like cobbler and banana pudding. Customers can stick with just the meat, a sandwich or a plate with two sides, which include baked beans, mac and cheese, twice-baked potato casserole and Brunswick stew.
5646 Price Road, Gainesville
Standard Service Restaurant & Taproom is located at the former gas station at 400 Jesse Jewell Parkway.
facebook.com/smokinmikesmeats
Sweet Magnolias
This family-owned cafe and bakery creates a daily buzz inside downtown Gainesville’s Main Street Market. Its menu features an array of straightforward sandwiches, soups, salads and baked goods.
118 Main St. SW, Gainesville 678-862-0254
TRENDY
Avocados
Enjoy your meal at tables along the sunny sidewalk of the Gainesville square or retreat inside to enjoy a fresh burger or skillfully fried chicken tenders. There’s an eclectic bar upstairs called Blue Door that features a DJ and a dress code.
109 Bradford St. S, Gainesville avocadoseats.com | 770- 532-0001
Bourbon Brothers
Smokehouse & Tavern
Opened in late spring 2023, Bourbon Brothers features American breakfast, lunch and dinner menus and one of the largest smokers in the region, meaning there’s plenty of brisket, smoked sausage and chicken, baby back ribs and mustard glazed pulled pork in “the pit.” Don’t forget to check out the bourbon bar upstairs, or the live performances in the music hall.
312 Jesse Jewell Parkway, Gainesville
bourbonbrothersga.com | 678-434-0366
Hopscotch
This restaurant offers nibbles like Brussels sprouts and goat cheese and entrees including anything from chicken and waffles to seafood pasta. The menu changes with the season. It also features local brews.
107 Bradford St. NW, Gainesville hopscotchrestaurant.com
Hop’s Kitchen
For a serious burger, or other sandwich for that matter, don’t miss this spot hidden away next to the Interactive Neighborhood for Kids in Gainesville. There’s an inventive burger menu and artful vegetarian sandwiches. Ask about their momo bread.
The Inked Pig puts its own mark on classic barbecue dishes. On the menu, you can find a barbacoa brisket with chimichurri sauce and sweet tea-smoked chicken along with classic pulled pork and sauces.
893 Main St. SW, Gainesville theinkedpig.com | 678-696-5611
Recess Southern Gastro Pub
Located just off the downtown Gainesville square, this pub offers trendy Southern foods like fried green tomato appetizers and shrimp
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FRENCH COUNTRY GETAWAY
Nestled in the foothills of North Georgia, discover a place where Southern charm meets French luxury.
DINING
and grits, along with classic pub fare like burgers and fish and chips. It has a large bar area and an inventive cocktail menu.
118 Bradford St. NE, Gainesville recesspub.com | 678-450-0444
The Stag Chophouse
Formerly known as chopBLOCK, this rebranded chophouse serves a more elevated dining experience than its pub fare of yore. The Stag’s clean and simple American-style dishes include New England crab dip, hotsmoked salmon, pork and lamb chops, filets and ribeyes.
110 Main St. SW, Gainesville chophouseandclub.com | 470-252-5016
Standard Service
A former fueling station turned gastropub offers 50 self-serve beers, pub fare, snacks and shareables. The family-owned restaurant serves lunch and dinner throughout the week and brunch on Saturdays and Sundays.
This contemporary fusion restaurant specializes in Latin-Asian cuisine inspired by the Los Angeles food truck scene and the travels of chef Scott Kinsey. The menu features avocado cilantro egg rolls, empanadas filled with diners’
choice of Thai chicken, beef or Korean-style barbecue short ribs, “tsunami bowls,” tacos and quesadillas, as well as draft beer, wine and signature cocktails.
106 Spring St., Gainesville taqueriatsunami.com
YellowFin
This downtown Gainesville restaurant spotlights seafood, with dishes like bang bang shrimp tacos and crab cakes. There’s also steaks, chicken and lamb for the land farers.
120 Bradford St. NW, Gainesville yellowfingv.com | 678-450-4225
Zen Ramen & Sushi Burrito
The only Japanese restaurant in downtown Gainesville serves up its namesake. The sushi burritos offer filling choices including tuna, salmon, shrimp, crab and vegetable options.
115 Washington St. NE, Gainesville 678-696-5739
FINE DINING
Antebellum
Experience fine dining in Flowery Branch by visiting Antebellum, which resides in an 1890s style home in the city’s historic district. The restaurant offers a seasonal menu with
ingredients from local farms, as well as traditional American dishes with a gourmet twist. Some of the menu items include cocoa-crusted duck breast, grilled salmon, wild farm greens and a local charcuterie and cheese board.
5510 Church St., Flowery Branch antebellumrestaurant.com | 770-965-8100
The Chattahoochee Grill
Located inside the Chattahoochee Golf Club, which is open to the public, many of The Chattahoochee Grill’s dishes have a Southern touch, some with an Asian leaning — a nod to chef Rand Carswell’s time in South Florida. Alongside pimento cheeseburgers, baconwrapped dates and brunchtime chicken and waffles, the menu flaunts spicy tuna crispy rice and Carswell’s award-winning fried mac and cheese balls, as seen on Food Network’s “Food Truck Face Off” in 2015.
301 Tommy Aaron Drive, Gainesville chattahoocheegrill.com | 770-532-1173
Consuelo
Authentic Mexican cuisine, curated cocktails and a unique dining experience collide under one roof at Consuelo, so named for the late grandmother of co-owner Pepe Perez, who brandished superb cooking skills and left behind a collection of beloved family recipes that were regularly savored around her 16-seat
Scott Rogers The Times
Cotto Modern Italian is located in downtown Gainesville.
dining room table. The restaurant’s menu is curated from many of those recipes.
Boasting flavors of the Old World and a sophisticated dining experience, Cotto offers traditional Italian dishes running the gamut from risottos and grilled meats to classic pastas and gnocchi, meatballs, steamed mussels and wood-fired, Neapolitan-style pizzas along with Italianinspired cocktails and roughly 50 wines.
106 Spring St., Gainesville cottoitalian.com | 678-310-2071
Luna’s
This mainstay located in the Hunt Tower off the Gainesville square features a refined dining experience and a traditionally American menu with dishes such as grilled pork chop with whipped sweet potatoes or salmon with basmati rice and vegetables. Don’t miss the piano bar.
200 Main St. SW, Gainesville lunas.com | 770-531-0848
Scott’s Downtown
Scott’s Downtown keeps a polished dinner menu with a range of premium steak and seafood dishes and a few Southern classics like lowcountry shrimp and grits and fresh cold-water oysters. The restaurant also provides an extensive cocktail menu for those wanting to kick back and unwind after work.
131 Bradford St. NE, Gainesville scottsdowntown.com | 770-536-1111
DINING
El Caldero manger Sandy DeAza, left, and server Katie Rodriguez, prepare for lunch service at the Dominican restaurant.
Sizzling Spices
Opened in May 2024, Sizzling Spices offers a taste of India with a modern twist. Sizzling Spices takes traditional Indian recipes and gives them a twist by incorporating meats and combinations that aren’t typically associated with those recipes. From a traditional biryani dish topped with lamb shanks to a unique version of butter chicken, this fine dining experience will have you wanting to try everything on the menu. 40317 Spring St., Gainesville sizzlingspicesgainesville.com | 770-287-8384
AUTHENTIC FLAVORS
Along Atlanta Highway, restaurants with authentic Mexican, Dominican and Salvadorian flavors have been serving the residents of Gainesville for more than two decades. While some are well-known for their unique flavors, others are among the city’s best-kept secrets.
La Mejor de Michoacan
If you’re turning off Pearl Nix Parkway, you won’t miss this bright yellow building. The ice cream shop makes popsicles in-house each day, concocting flavors like guava, tequila, rice pudding, tamarind, chocolate, vanilla, strawberry, cookies and cream and coconut. A must-try
is their chamoyadas and mangonadas: mango ice cream topped with either chamoy, tajin or mango chunks.
403 Atlanta Highway, Gainesville lamejordemichoacan.net | 770-534-0610
El Carreton
Since 1994, El Carreton has been serving authentic tacos, burritos, tortas and quesadillas. Each taco order comes with double-layered corn tortillas, cilantro, onion and house-made green salsa. Their self-proclaimed “best tortas in the universe” are filled with your choice of meat or a vegetarian option and a variety of toppings. 608 Atlanta Highway, Gainesville elcarretongainesville.com | 770-535-2665
El Salvador Bakery and Pupuseria
Rich scents of baked bread and fresh-made pupusas greet your first steps into El Salvador Bakery and Pupuseria. The restaurant sells a variety of sweet breads and semitas, which are filled with cheese, guava or pineapple. As their name suggests, the restaurant also offers savory corn and rice pupusas filled with cheese, beans, squash or your choice of meat. Fresh-made tamales and empanadas are also available daily.
1403 Atlanta Highway, Gainesville facebook.com/El-Salvador-Bakery-Y-
Pupuseria | 678-971-5868
Marisquería Playa Azul
Seafood and Grill
Among many things, the restaurant offers a choice of fish on a bed of rice, alongside a salad and a wide selection of margaritas, micheladas and bloody Marys. A simple staple is the Playa Azul fish tacos, which come with freshly cooked fish, lettuce, tomatoes, onions, cilantro and a house made sauce to pour on top. 1736 Atlanta Highway, Gainesville playaazul-seafoodrestaurant.business.site | 678-943-2891
El Caldero
Dominican Restaurant
Opened in January 2021, El Caldero brings authentic Dominican cuisine to Gainesville’s table. Their menu offers a selection of main dishes, sides and desserts, but it’s the appetizers that steal the show. The restaurant’s bollitos are served as four fried balls of dough stuffed with a choice of beef, pork or cheese. Another classic dish is the mofonguitos: three fried plantain cups filled with melted cheese, shrimp, peppers, tomatoes and a Creole sauce.
2550 Atlanta Highway, Suite 900, Gainesville elcalderogainesville.com | 678-943-8986
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BREWERIES & MORE
Mike and Jessie Martin have opened Flourish Taproom inside The 1904 in downtown Braselton. The business offers beer and wine on tap and live music and other live entertainment.
BREWERIES
Braselton Brewing Co.
This brewpub offers a lineup of rotating beers including European classics like a German-style lager, hefeweizen and kolsch. A restaurant is inside what was once a cotton gin, which can be noted by its rustic metal exterior. This brewpub welcomes canines of all sizes to its patio.
9859 Davis St., Braselton braseltonbrewing.com | 706-684-0686
DISTILLERIES
Remedy Distillery
Gainesville’s first distillery is making its own signature whiskey and bourbon in midtown Gainesville. There’s an outdoor patio and an indoor tasting room that serves cocktails and 2-ounce free samples of whiskey and bourbon. People can also purchase up to three bottles of bourbon and cinnamon whiskey.
885 Main St. SW, Gainesville remedywhiskey.com | info@remedywhiskey.com
TAPROOMS
Cork It
Located inside Main Street Market in downtown Gainesville, Cork It boasts an array of local and imported wines and charcuterie boards. The wine bar, which opened in 2020, also has a location in downtown Buford.
118 Main St., Gainesville corkitgainesville.com | 770-545-6164
79 E. Main St., Buford corkitbuford.com | 678-765-2549
Downtown Drafts
This craft beer cafe and growler shop on the Gainesville square offers a selection of local, national and international brews. Seating is available inside as well as along the sidewalk outside the shop.
Inside The 1904, a downtown Braselton mercantile formerly known as the Braselton Bros. Department Store, this family-friendly community gathering space features a rotating lineup of beer and wine as well as non-alcoholic beverages, live music every weekend and social events including bingo, trivia and comedy nights.
9924 Davis St., Braselton facebook.com/flourishtaproom
Tap It Pints and Growlers
As its name suggests, this taproom offers a rotating selection of craft beer by the pint or growler, as well as wine and champagne. Guests can enjoy a drink and live entertainment inside or on the rooftop, which opened in spring 2022 and overlooks downtown Gainesville.
110 Maple St., Gainesville tapitgrowler.square.site | 678-421-3312
WINERIES
Chateau Elan
As one of the largest wineries on the East Coast, Chateau Elan has carved a path for itself in Georgia’s wine industry. The winery has crafted over 30 wines with grapes grown in Braselton, southern Georgia vineyards and California’s Lake County and Clarksburg regions. Open daily, Chateau Elan in Braselton invites guests to delve deeper into the wine-making process with a behind-thescenes tour.
100 Rue Charlemagne Drive, Braselton chateauelan.com | 678-425-0900
Cloudland Vineyards and Winery
This winery in South Hall County highlights the lomanto grape, which can produce a bright and complex red wine. The menu also includes white and rosé wines.
3796 North Bogan Road, Buford facebook.com/cloudlandwines
Sweet Acre Farms Winery
This fruit winery set in the rolling hills of northeast Hall County has a low-key vibe, where you can grab a wine slushie and rock on the expansive porch overlooking vines of blackberries. While many of the wines are sweet, there are some drier varieties, including one made from blueberries.
7584 Bill Wilson Road, Alto sweetacrefarms.com | 678-769-5355
