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!
Celebrating Mom starts here 💐✨
Start planning now for the perfect Mother’s Day in Gainesville:
• 🌸 Brunch atAvocados Restaurant or Luna's Restaurant
• ☕ Coffee + pastries from Inman Perk Coffee - Gainesville or Meadowlark Coffee
• 🛍️ Shop + stroll through Downtown Gainesville boutiques
• 🌿 Walk or picnic at Midland Greenway (Gainesville Parks & Recreation )
• 🌼 Relax at Wilshire Trails Park or Riverside Park
• 🛶 Spend time at Lake Lanier Olympic Park
• 🎶 Catch live music at The Hall at Bourbon Brothers - Gainesville
…and so many more ways to celebrate Mom right here in Gainesville 💕
#ExploreGainesvilleGA #GainesvilleGA #MothersDay #CelebrateMom #ThingsToDoInGainesville #GetOutside #ShopLocal #gvlga ... See MoreSee Less
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📍 Downtown Square, Explore Gainesville
Scenes from the kick-off of the First Friday Concert Series in downtown Gainesville with Rock Station hitting the stage! This family-friendly event features live music, food, a kid zone, plus all the amazing shops and restaurants throughout downtown. It’s a perfect way to experience the energy of Gainesville on a Friday night. Next concert is set for June 5! ... See MoreSee Less
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🎤Ready to take the stage?
We’re looking for talented singers to perform the National Anthem at the NCAA Rowing Championships at Lake Lanier Olympic Park!
✨ Here’s your shot:
🎶 Submit a video of you singing the National Anthem by May 8
📧 Send to: MBishop@gainesvillega.gov
📩 Finalists announced May 12
🎤 Top contestants will be invited to a live audition on May 15 at 2 PM
🏆 3 finalists will be selected one for each day — with the chance to perform May 29–31 in front of athletes, fans, and a championship crowd
This is your moment 👀 Tag someone who needs to enter!
#ExploreGainesvilleGA #LakeLanierOlympicPark #NCAARowing #GainesvilleGA #NationalAnthem #SingingOpportunity #CallForTalent #PerformLive #VisitGainesville #gvlga ... See MoreSee Less
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