Things to do in Buford

Explore things to do in Buford, from historic downtown and waterfront recreation to family activities, indoor fun, shopping, and dining.

Buford combines a historic downtown atmosphere with modern shopping, dining, recreation, and access to the water. Visitors can stroll streets lined with older buildings, browse retail districts, pause at parks and green spaces, or spend time along the Lake Lanier shoreline. The town’s mix of small-scale character and larger entertainment areas makes it suitable for both relaxed afternoons and activity-filled outings.

Things to do in Buford range from waterfront recreation and family attractions to indoor entertainment, shopping, and varied restaurants. A weekend can include a morning walk downtown, an afternoon near the lake, and an evening meal or movie. Families have options for active play and all-weather fun, while budget-conscious visitors can focus on scenic walks, public spaces, and window-shopping. Because attractions are spread across the downtown, Buford Drive, and Lanier Islands Parkway areas, checking routes and current operating information before setting out can help make the day run smoothly.

Frequently asked questions about Buford

What are the best things to do in Buford?

Explore Buford’s historic downtown, browse local shopping areas, enjoy the waterfront, or plan an indoor round at Putt Nation Mini Golf. A mix of relaxed outdoor time and entertainment makes it easy to shape a half-day or full-day itinerary.

What are some family-friendly things to do in Buford?

Families can spend time by the water and enjoy seasonal recreation at Margaritaville at Lanier Islands. Buford also has parks, casual dining, shopping, and simple indoor activities suitable for different ages.

What can you do in Buford for free or on a budget?

Walk around historic downtown, enjoy public green spaces, or take in waterfront views for a low-cost outing. Window-shopping at Marketplace at Millcreek is another flexible option, though individual purchases will add to the budget.

What are the best indoor things to do in Buford?

For a rainy day, browse Mall of Georgia, catch a film at Regal Mall Of Georgia, or spend time reading and shopping at Barnes & Noble. These indoor options can be combined without leaving Buford.

Where should you eat during a weekend in Buford?

Buford has casual chains, locally oriented dining, steakhouses, seafood, Mexican food, and Italian options. For a weekend meal, consider Bare Bones Steakhouse downtown or Coastal Breeze Seafood Grill along Lanier Islands Parkway, then leave time to explore the surrounding area on foot or by car.

Things to do in Buford

Department StorePhoto of Walmart Supercenter — Department Storevia Google Maps

Walmart Supercenter

Buford, GA|4
Seafood RestaurantPhoto of The Juicy Crab — Seafood Restaurantvia Google Maps

The Juicy Crab

Buford, GA|5
Department StorePhoto of Macy's — Department Storevia Google Maps

Macy's

Department store chain providing brand-name clothing, accessories, home furnishings & housewares.

Buford, GA|4
Shopping MallPhoto of Mall of Georgia — Shopping MallOur original photo

Mall of Georgia

Landmark mall with grand architecture & 200+ stores on 3 levels, plus a cinema & kids’ play area.

Buford, GA|5
RestaurantPhoto of Frontera Mexican Kitchen — Restaurantvia Google Maps

Frontera Mexican Kitchen

Relaxed restaurant offering a wide menu of standard Mexican fare, plus cocktails & lunch deals.

Buford, GA|5
Movie TheaterPhoto of Regal Mall Of Georgia — Movie TheaterOur original photo

Regal Mall Of Georgia

Theater complex with multiple screens featuring new release films, plush seating & concession stand.

Buford, GA|4
Mexican RestaurantPhoto of Tequila Mama - Buford — Mexican Restaurantvia Google Maps

Tequila Mama - Buford

Buford, GA|5
Italian RestaurantPhoto of Olive Garden Italian Restaurant — Italian Restaurantvia Google Maps

Olive Garden Italian Restaurant

Lively, family-friendly chain featuring Italian standards such as pastas & salads.

Buford, GA|4
Electronics StorePhoto of Best Buy — Electronics Store

Best Buy

Chain retailer with a large array of brand-name electronics, computers, appliances & more.

Buford, GA|4
Mexican RestaurantPhoto of Tacos & Tequilas Mexican Grill — Mexican Restaurantvia Google Maps

Tacos & Tequilas Mexican Grill

Mexican favorites served in roomy, modern-rustic surrounds with a full bar & patio dining.

Buford, GA|5
Pizza RestaurantPhoto of Parma Tavern — Pizza RestaurantOur original photo

Parma Tavern

Comfy, rustic locale for Italian mains & pizza, plus a full bar, karaoke & music.

Buford, GA|5
Steak HousePhoto of Bare Bones Steakhouse — Steak HouseOur original photo

Bare Bones Steakhouse

Wood-fired steaks & other classic American fare served in lofty, comfortable digs in an old tannery.

Buford, GA|5
American RestaurantPhoto of Seasons 52 — American Restaurantvia Google Maps

Seasons 52

Rotating menu of seasonal American dishes alongside international wines in an upscale setting.

Buford, GA|5
RestaurantPhoto of Taco Mac Mall of Georgia — Restaurantvia Google Maps

Taco Mac Mall of Georgia

Branch of a sports grill chain offering buffalo wings, chili, sandwiches & lots of draft beer.

Buford, GA|4
American RestaurantPhoto of Culver’s — American Restaurantvia Google Maps

Culver’s

Fast-food chain specializing in frozen custard & signature burgers made with Midwest beef & dairy.

Buford, GA|4
Steak HousePhoto of Texas Roadhouse — Steak House

Texas Roadhouse

Lively chain steakhouse serving American fare with a Southwestern spin amid Texas-themed decor.

Buford, GA|4
Steak HousePhoto of LongHorn Steakhouse — Steak Housevia Google Maps

LongHorn Steakhouse

Casual steakhouse chain known for grilled beef & other American dishes in a ranch-style space.

Buford, GA|4
Amusement CenterPhoto of Margaritaville at Lanier Islands — Amusement Center

Margaritaville at Lanier Islands

Lakeside water park with slides & a large wave pool, plus a mini-golf course & arcades.

Buford, GA|4
Hamburger RestaurantPhoto of Steak 'n Shake — Hamburger Restaurantvia Google Maps

Steak 'n Shake

Chain known for steakburgers & milkshakes offering a dinerlike space with retro flair.

Buford, GA|4
Miniature Golf CoursePhoto of Putt Nation Mini Golf — Miniature Golf CourseOur original photo

Putt Nation Mini Golf

Buford, GA|5