50 miles north of Atlanta, this 38,000-acre lakeside escape delivers beaches, boating, Olympic legacy and nonstop adventure
LAKE LANIER, GEORGIA—MARCH 2026—Peaceful Lake Lanier, Georgia’s largest lake and one surrounded by the North Georgia Mountains, is an outdoor haven that’s only a 45-minute drive from the hustle and bustle of Atlanta. Activities abound, from boating, fishing and paddling the manmade lake to summer attractions in the nearby community of Buford, and at the Lanier Islands Resort and Margaritaville at Lanier Islands. Come ready for adventure for Lake Lanier will keep you busy.
Lanier Islands Resort
Hike the paved trails, bike the scenic roads, take in a round of golf on an award-winning course or just relax by the heated outdoor pool or on a sandy beach at the Lanier Islands Resort (7000 Lanier Islands Parkway, Buford, Geogia 30518; 770-945-8787). The property stretches over 1,200 acres, with 27 miles facing the placid waters of Lake Lanier. Sports action includes six brand new pickleball courts open daily, boating excursions on the lake and the exciting new GameChanger (7000 Lanier Islands Parkway, Buford, Georgia 30518; 678-318-2027), the resort’s new 23,000-square-foot entertainment facility. The GameChanger floor contains more than 60 amusement games, a dedicated kids’ arcade space, virtual sports suites, axe throwing lanes, an escape room and a nine-hole challenge putting course.
Opening this spring, Lanier Islands Resort will debut a multi-phase golf investment to its Billy Fuller-designed Legacy Golf Course and its 14 holes offering awe-inspiring views of Lake Lanier. New to the resort’s award-winning course includes a renovated and expanded clubhouse that will offer additional dining, a 19th-hole bar and lounge, an upgraded pro shop, outdoor gathering spaces overlooking Lake Lanier and flexible event areas. Complementing the clubhouse is “The Six,” a unique six-hole, night-lit par-3 course offering gorgeous water views both day and after dusk.
In the evenings, cozy up to the Legacy Lodge fire pit overlooking Lake Lanier and Legacy Pool. It’s a great spot for stargazing and enjoying smores from the resort’s Bullfrogs restaurant (smores kits available year-round). And when the weather warms, Lanier Islands Resort will host a series of new festivals, concerts and experiences.
On the lake
You’ll be hearing Jimmy Buffett’s trademark music that inspires laidback living while visiting the colorful Margaritaville at Lanier Islands (7650 Lanier Islands Parkway, Buford, Georgia 30518; 470-323-3440). The property contains restaurants, thrill-seeking water slides, wave pool and more, plus there’s plenty of opportunities to bring your boat for the day (pull up to the marina) or park your RV at the Margaritaville RV Resort. For those wanting to get on the water, boat rentals are available at Harbor Landing Marina (470-323-3465).
The 1996 Olympic Games were held in Atlanta and surrounding areas, including at Lake Lanier for the Olympic Rowing and Canoe/Kayak Competitions. The original timing tower for that event remains today at Lake Lanier Olympic Park (3105 Clarks Bridge Road, Gainesville, Georgia 30506; 855-536-1996). Visitors may enjoy the Olympic history but also picnic sites, a beach with Fields Memorial Butterfly Garden, boat ramp and the rowing and canoe/kayaking facility. Concerts and festivals take place at the park throughout the year.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers operates 46 park areas around Lake Lanier (it’s the most visited Army Corps of Engineers lake), ideal for camping, swimming, picnics and beachcombing. Private lakeside rentals, hotels, campgrounds and cottages at Don Carter State Park are also available, many of which offer beaches, fishing and boat ramps, among other amenities. Accommodations literally run the gamut at Lake Lanier.
Buford
Buckle up for the European-inspired indoor track at Andretti Indoor Karting & Games (2925 Buford Drive, Buford, Georgia 30519; 470-646-3278). And if speeds of up to 40 mph is not enough thrill, visitors may climb the Cosmic Rock Wall, zip the Zip Line, tackle the SkyTrail Ropes Course above the game floor, bowl, enjoy race simulators or enjoy laser tag. And if all that fun gets you hungry, Andretti serves up food and drinks as well.
Buford is also home to Topgolf Atlanta-Buford (2935 Buford Drive, Buford, Georgia 30519; 470-822-1711) where you’ll never have to worry about the weather. Top Golf’s hitting bays are climate-controlled so play golf, enjoy cool food options and engage in technology that scores your hits on outfield targets. It’s a perfect spot for parties, corporate events, date nights and other special occasions.
If you go
For a list of upcoming events happening at Lake Lanier, click here. Journalists: for more ideas and downloadable photos go to https://www.travelmediapressroom.com/lake-lanier-georgia/.