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

Sushi RestaurantPhoto of Kura Revolving Sushi Bar — Sushi Restaurantvia Google Maps

Kura Revolving Sushi Bar

Buford, GA|4
Mexican RestaurantPhoto of Bravo Mexican Grill — Mexican Restaurantvia Google Maps

Bravo Mexican Grill

Informal pit stop serving up Mexican favorites like nachos & quesadillas for eat-in or takeout.

Buford, GA|4
Sushi RestaurantPhoto of Revolving Sushi Factory — Sushi Restaurantvia Google Maps

Revolving Sushi Factory

Buford, GA|4
Home Goods StorePhoto of At Home — Home Goods Storevia Google Maps

At Home

Buford, GA|4
RestaurantPhoto of Tavern at Mall of Ga — Restaurantvia Google Maps

Tavern at Mall of Ga

Buford, GA|4
ParkPhoto of Buford Dam Park — ParkOur original photo

Buford Dam Park

Serene lakeside park with a sandy, swimming beach, plus picnic areas & recreational facilities.

Buford, GA|5
Department StorePhoto of Von Maur — Department Storevia Google Maps

Von Maur

Department-store chain stocking brand-name clothing, jewelry & home accessories.

Buford, GA|4
Department StorePhoto of Target — Department Storevia Google Maps

Target

Retail chain offering home goods, clothing, electronics & more, plus exclusive designer collections.

Buford, GA|4
BakeryPhoto of Paris Baguette — Bakeryvia Google Maps

Paris Baguette

Buford, GA|5
RestaurantPhoto of Shogun Sushi and Steak House — Restaurantvia Google Maps

Shogun Sushi and Steak House

Traditional Japanese steakhouse featuring hibachi & teriyaki prepared tableside, plus a sushi bar.

Buford, GA|4
American RestaurantPhoto of Suthern Cluck Chicken and Waffle — American Restaurantvia Google Maps

Suthern Cluck Chicken and Waffle

Buford, GA|5
Department StorePhoto of Marshalls — Department Storevia Google Maps

Marshalls

Retail chain offering brand-name clothing, accessories, shoes & housewares.

Buford, GA|4
Mexican RestaurantPhoto of Don Jose Taco Bar & Grill Buford — Mexican Restaurantvia Google Maps

Don Jose Taco Bar & Grill Buford

Buford, GA|5
Sporting Goods StorePhoto of DICK'S Sporting Goods — Sporting Goods Storevia Google Maps

DICK'S Sporting Goods

Sporting goods chain with equipment, apparel & footwear for athletics, outdoor recreation & fitness.

Buford, GA|4
Cuban RestaurantPhoto of Coco's Cuban Restaurant — Cuban Restaurantvia Google Maps

Coco's Cuban Restaurant

Casual restaurant offering a variety of traditional Cuban entrees & soups in a colorful interior.

Buford, GA|4
Mexican RestaurantPhoto of Moe's Southwest Grill — Mexican Restaurantvia Google Maps

Moe's Southwest Grill

Counter-serve chain dishing up Southwestern staples from burritos to nachos in lively environs.

Buford, GA|4
Grocery StorePhoto of Sprouts Farmers Market — Grocery Storevia Google Maps

Sprouts Farmers Market

Specialty chain offering a range of natural & organic grocery items, including own-brand goods.

Buford, GA|5
Cuban RestaurantPhoto of Mambo's Cafe - Buford — Cuban Restaurantvia Google Maps

Mambo's Cafe - Buford

Buford, GA|4
Mexican RestaurantPhoto of La Cazuela — Mexican Restaurantvia Google Maps

La Cazuela

Contemporary, lively locale offering Mexican favorites, margaritas & outdoor seating.

Buford, GA|4
ParkPhoto of Lower Overlook — ParkOur original photo

Lower Overlook

Buford, GA|5