It’s almost summer, which means it’s almost lake time! Those that live in Atlanta and its suburbs know that the best lake in the state is Lake Lanier. So, they pack their bathing suits and head out to Buford, Ga.

Located in both Gwinnett and Hall Counties, Buford started as a depot on the railway line between Atlanta and Charlotte, N.C. in 1872. Now, the city is home to major domestic and international companies.

With these operations came a flood of new residents. According to the Atlanta Journal Constitution’s Homefinder, Buford has a population of about 44,000. About 41 percent of households have children. These children attend excellent Buford City Schools where teachers and staff expect them to achieve and succeed.

Buford has amazing real estate opportunities. Trulia lists 823 properties for sale. These range in price from approximately $30,000 to $4,000,000. For those looking to rent, the site lists 112 rentals that range from $650 to $4,300 per month.

Residents enjoy a perfect location near it all. Buford is convenient to the Mall of Georgia, art galleries, restaurants, shops and, of course, Lake Lanier—the premier recreational development in the Southeast.

 

Shopping and Dining

• Mall of Georgia. Home to 225 stores and dozens of restaurants, the Mall of Georgia is a one-stop destination. The directory included Ann Taylor, Apple Store, Coldwater Creek, Eddie Bauer, J. Crew, LOFT, Nordstrom Rack, Regal Cinemas 20 and IMAX 3-D Theatre, White House/Black Market and Yankee Candle.

• Aqua Terra Bistro. A downtown Buford staple, the restaurant features traditional classic inspired by world cuisine. Menu items include crab cakes, potato egg rolls, butter lettuce and beet salad, scallops, salmon, chargrilled filet mignon, turkey and brie sandwiches, penne alfredo and plenty of wine options.

• The Tannery Row Artist Colony. Located in the restored Tannery Row Building in downtown Buford, The Tannery Row Artist Colony is comprised of 17 artists that open their galleries to show off their talents. Be sure to see and purchase their woodworking, acrylic, pottery, stained glass and oil masterpieces.

• Rico’s World Kitchen. Providing fresh food and timeless hospitality, Rico’s offers a completely hand crafted culinary experience. Menu items include deep fried pork skins, fried green tomatoes, strawberry salad, apricot ham and brie sandwiches, authentic Louisiana po boys, fried eggplant and strawberry cake.

Entertainment and Recreation

• Buford Dam Park at Lake Lanier. A major source of power for the state, the Buford Dam is a must-see. Buford Dam Park at Lake Lanier includes a beach with designated swim area, picnic tables, volleyball and basketball areas, playgrounds and picnic pavilions.

• Gwinnett Environmental & Heritage Center. An ideal location for family fun, the center offers hands-on science exhibits designed to enlighten, educate and entertain. Exhibits include Discover H2O, Blue Planet, e-Planetarium, Water Wise and Peanuts…Naturally.

• Bogan Park. 83-acre Bogan Park features an indoor aquatic center with pools, outdoor basketball courts, indoor badminton courts, playgrounds, seven field baseball/softball complex, football field overlay, sand volleyball courts, pavilions and two miles of trails.

• Treetop Quest Gwinnett. Located at 2020 Clean Water Dr. in Buford, spend the day at Treetop Quest. Staff will teach guests how to operate equipment, and then they can swing through each of the six courses for two-and-a-half hours. Move from tree to tree at your own pace with tyrolean crossings, monkey bridges or Tarzan jumps.

 

 

 

Historical Attractions

• Bona Allen Mansion. Perfect for weddings, receptions and corporate events, this historic Italianate mansion was built in 1911 by Bona Allen, Sr. and his family. In the late 1800s, Bona Allen founded the tannery business in Buford and employed two-thirds of the town’s population. Bona Allen, Inc. manufactured horse saddles, shoes and boots. The main house has 17 rooms, a two-story entry with Italian wall mural and many more beautiful details. During the early 1900s, the home was known for extravagant parties. Have yours here today!

• Museum of Buford. Located off of East Main St., the museum was established in 1986 and has permanent and revolving exhibits. All tell the history of Buford and its inhabitants. The museum is currently creating a Fine Arts division, with examples from many of the artists who have worked in Buford.

Explore Buford today, but don’t forget your sunscreen! For more activities and events, visit www.gcvb.org. For more information on Gwinnett County homes, click here.