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!
🐉Mark your calendars, because tomorrow we dive into the world of Dragon Boating at our next Welcome Center Day! Join us September 11 from 1–3 PM for an afternoon celebrating one of the exciting water sports that calls Gainesville home. 🌊
Stop by, learn more about Dragon Boating, and discover what makes Gainesville’s connection to the water so special!
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🐝 You may see some extra people buzzing around town this weekend! 🐝
The 2026 Georgia Beekeepers Association Conference & Honey Show is here! Beekeepers from across Georgia are gathering in Gainesville to learn the latest in beekeeping techniques, honey harvesting, certifications and more.
With more than 400 attendees, we’re thrilled to welcome this annual conference to Gainesville and they’re happy to BEE here!
A big thank you to the Georgia Beekeepers Association for choosing Gainesville to host this incredible conference. We’re excited to have you in town!
🐝 Check out their Facebook page for conference details and to learn more about the Georgia Beekeepers Association.
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🐉🚣 Get ready for Dragon Boat weekend in Gainesville!
Kick off the fun with a Dragon Boat–themed Welcome Center Day before heading out to Lake Lanier Olympic Park for the big festival!
🐲 Dragon Boat Welcome Center Day
📅 September 11 | 1–3 PM
📍 Gainesville Welcome Center
🚣 Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival
📅 September 12
📍 Lake Lanier Olympic Park
Stop by Friday for some Dragon Boat fun, then come cheer on the teams as they hit the water on Saturday! 🥁🌊
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