Explore Gainesville is the official tourism branch of the City of Gainesville, Georgia, dedicated to promoting our community as a destination for leisure travel, group and sporting events, and film productions. Funded by local lodging revenue, we create and support events, showcase attractions, and highlight all the ways visitors and residents can enjoy Gainesville’s thriving downtown, scenic outdoor spaces, and unique cultural offerings!
The City of Gainesville Tourism Office (Explore Gainesville) plays a vital role in promoting Gainesville, Georgia as a premier destination for visitors, conferences and sporting events. This department is a well-oiled machine, with multiple divisions working together to attract and engage visitors. From Downtown Gainesville events to Lake Lanier Olympic Park, each division has a key role in ensuring Gainesville thrives as a destination. Fully funded by hotel/motel tax, the Convention and Visitors Bureau’s efforts not only boost tourism but also positively impact the local economy without burdening residents!
Save the date, or rather save the DATES, because Gainesville’s calendar is filled with exciting events. Join us for annual events such as the Chicken Festival, Jingle Mingle, First Fridays, Food Truck Fridays and so much more!
Step into the historic charm of Gainesville, Georgia’s newly renovated City Hall—an iconic landmark that marries timeless elegance with modern sophistication. Originally constructed in 1937, the building stands as a testament to the city’s rich heritage, showcasing beautiful architecture and meticulous detailing!
Lake Lanier Olympic Park is Gainesville’s premier waterfront venue, originally built for the 1996 Olympic Games. Today, it hosts world-class rowing and paddling events, community festivals, concerts, and more—all with breathtaking views of Lake Lanier!
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 Boathouse towers over Olympic waters that have been igniting dreams for nearly 30 years!
The Gainesville Convention and Visitors Bureau (Explore Gainesville) proudly hosted the 2025 Winter Chautauqua conference on March 9–10 at The Boathouse at Lake Lanier!
In partnership with Lake Lanier Olympic Park and the Lake Lanier Olympic Park (LLOP) Foundation, the Gainesville Convention & Visitors Bureau (Explore Gainesville) was recently awarded the 2025 Paul Nelson Award for Outdoor Recreation and Preservation!
In an effort to cultivate an already flourishing partnership with the United States while enhancing their own organization, Farm Fresh Ontario (FFO) sent several dozen Canadians to the City of Gainesville, Georgia to learn about North Georgia’s fruitful agritourism efforts!
Keep up with the latest by following us on our social media!
🧳✨ Suitcase Saturday Stop #1: Elachee Nature Science Center!
From interactive exhibits and live animal ambassadors to the scenic trails of Chicopee Woods, Elachee is the perfect place for your next family adventure.
#exploregainesvillega #suitcasesaturday #elacheenaturesciencecenter #VisitGainesvilleGA #exploregeorgia #familyfun #natureadventure #weekendgetaway ... See MoreSee Less
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✨ What's Happening This Weekend? ✨
Make plans to explore Gainesville this weekend!
📅 Friday
🎶 First Friday Concert featuring Smokey Jones Band by Downtown Gainesville
🎸 Live Music at Cork It Gainesville & Tap It Growlers
🛍️ Midland Market at NoFo Brew Co Gainesville
💃 DJ Dance Party at Big Daddy's Honkytonk
🎧 EDCOY at Decoy Gainesville
🤘 Jeremy's Ten at The Hall at Bourbon Brothers - Gainesville
🎤 Live Music at Blackstrap Rock Hall
📅 Saturday
😂 Comedy Night at The Hall at Bourbon Brothers - Gainesville
🎶 Live Music at Wild Wing Cafe & Big Daddy's Honkytonk
💃 Salsa Saturdays at El Salvador Restaurant
🎸 Live Music at BlackStrap Rock Hall
📅 Sunday
🎵 Sunday Serenades at The Hall at Bourbon Brothers - Gainesville
🎙️ Full Band Open Mic at BlackStrap Rock Hall
And more! What are your weekend plans? Let us know below! 👇
#ExploreGainesvilleGA #VisitGainesvilleGA #WeekendPlans #GainesvilleGA #DowntownGainesvilleGA #ExploreGeorgia #NorthGeorgia #SupportLocal #ThingsToDo #LiveMusic ... See MoreSee Less
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Gainesville was honored to host the 2026 NCAA Divisions I, II & III Women’s Rowing Championships! 🌊🏅
Thank you to the NCAA and all the student‑athletes, coaches, and fans who brought such incredible energy to Lake Lanier.
NCAA celebrated the Women's Rowing Championships' success by sending a special shoutout to our dedicated leadership team — Robyn Lynch, Aaron Mullican, James Watson, Ericka Wilson and David Wright — along with the many City of Gainesville, Georgia Personnel and hundreds of volunteers for helping deliver a smooth, memorable championship experience.
We’re proud to support events that uplift student‑athletes and showcase Gainesville on the national stage!
#GainesvilleGA #NCAA #RowingChampionships #WomensRowing #LakeLanier #TeamGainesville #CommunityPride #SportsTourism #RowingLife #ChampionshipWeekend ... See MoreSee Less
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