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

RestaurantPhoto of la Madeleine — Restaurantvia Google Maps

la Madeleine

Quaint French cafe chain serving rustic country fare, espresso & fresh-baked baguettes.

Buford, GA|4
Bowling AlleyPhoto of Stars and Strikes — Bowling AlleyOur original photo

Stars and Strikes

Buford, GA|4
Hamburger RestaurantPhoto of Burger 21 — Hamburger Restaurantvia Google Maps

Burger 21

Counter-serve chain dishing up creative burgers, fries & shakes in a modern space with a sauce bar.

Buford, GA|4
American RestaurantPhoto of Rico’s World Kitchen — American Restaurantvia Google Maps

Rico’s World Kitchen

Laid-back cafe with garage doors & photo-covered walls serving unique dishes from lumpia to po' boys

Buford, GA|5
RestaurantPhoto of JINYA Ramen Bar - Buford — Restaurantvia Google Maps

JINYA Ramen Bar - Buford

Buford, GA|5
Department StorePhoto of T.J. Maxx & HomeGoods — Department Storevia Google Maps

T.J. Maxx & HomeGoods

Retail chain featuring stylish brand-name apparel, shoes & accessories, plus housewares.

Buford, GA|4
Indian RestaurantPhoto of 786 Kebab & Curry Buffet — Indian Restaurantvia Google Maps

786 Kebab & Curry Buffet

Traditional Indian dishes are served buffet-style or to go in a cozy, unadorned space.

Buford, GA|4
Amusement ParkPhoto of Sky Zone Trampoline Park — Amusement ParkOur original photo

Sky Zone Trampoline Park

Chain of indoor trampoline parks featuring freestyle bouncing, dodgeball, fitness programs & more.

Buford, GA|4
RestaurantPhoto of Topgolf Buford — Restaurantvia Google Maps

Topgolf Buford

Sprawling entertainment venue with a high-tech driving range & swanky lounge with drinks & games.

Buford, GA|4
Amusement ParkPhoto of Billy Beez Mall of Georgia — Amusement Park

Billy Beez Mall of Georgia

Buford, GA|4
BarPhoto of 37 Main Restaurant + Bar — Barvia Google Maps

37 Main Restaurant + Bar

Live local rock bands & touring acts, accompanied by classic American food with a Southern flair.

Buford, GA|5
GymPhoto of Planet Fitness — GymOur original photo

Planet Fitness

Buford, GA|5
RestaurantPhoto of Oy! — Restaurantvia Google Maps

Oy!

Buford, GA|5
American RestaurantPhoto of The Dawg House Burgers & More — American Restaurantvia Google Maps

The Dawg House Burgers & More

Fast-food shack for foot-long hot dogs, wings with numerous sauces & other fried comfort foods.

Buford, GA|5
StorePhoto of Sam's Club — Storevia Google Maps

Sam's Club

Membership-only warehouse chain selling a variety of bulk grocery items, electronics & home goods.

Buford, GA|4
RestaurantPhoto of Red Robin Gourmet Burgers and Brews — Restaurantvia Google Maps

Red Robin Gourmet Burgers and Brews

Chain for gourmet burgers & other American comfort fare.

Buford, GA|4
Sporting Goods StorePhoto of Academy Sports + Outdoors — Sporting Goods Storevia Google Maps

Academy Sports + Outdoors

Sporting goods chain selling athletic apparel & footwear, plus outdoor gear & fitness equipment.

Buford, GA|4
Mexican RestaurantPhoto of El Taco Jalisco — Mexican Restaurantvia Google Maps

El Taco Jalisco

Buford, GA|5
Mediterranean RestaurantPhoto of Mo's Gyro and Kabob — Mediterranean Restaurantvia Google Maps

Mo's Gyro and Kabob

Buford, GA|5
American RestaurantPhoto of Bubba's 33 — American Restaurantvia Google Maps

Bubba's 33

Burgers, pizza & beer served alongside many large-screen TVs showing sports & music videos.

Buford, GA|4