Title: Things to Do in Gainesville in 2026 | Expedia.com [Gainesville Travel Guide](https://expedia.com/Gainesville.dx6057988)[Hotels in Gainesville](https://expedia.com/Gainesville-Hotels.d6057988.Travel-Guide-Hotels)[Flights to Gainesville](https://expedia.com/Cheap-Flights-To-Gainesville.d6057988.Travel-Guide-Flights)[Car Rentals in Gainesville](https://expedia.com/Car-Rentals-In-Gainesville.d6057988.Car-Rental-Guide)[Gainesville Vacation Packages](https://expedia.com/Gainesville.d6057988.Destination-Travel-Guides) # Things to do in Gainesville ## Find and book activities, attractions and tours ## Visit Gainesville Types of activities Where to stay [Gainesville Travel Guide](https://expedia.com/Gainesville.dx6057988) ![Gainesville](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6057988/4ef555b5-c1c3-400b-ab47-2899ca778712.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh) ![Gainesville](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6057988/4ef555b5-c1c3-400b-ab47-2899ca778712.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh) ![St Maarten and St Martin featuring outdoor art](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6057988/62e260ab-d275-4dc3-a36f-614d8fd8f8b2.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh) ![Gainesville featuring a garden](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6057988/d206bedb-5aba-4d91-aa16-c1978e3bd208.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh) ![Wilshire Trails Park showing a garden](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/553248621561884196/a7e42fc0-aac5-4ae4-bfd8-c72763b10ef0.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh) ### Gainesville Attractions It's not hard to find fun things to do in Gainesville. Brush up on the area's history and check out the top tourist attractions in this charming city. Sort out your to-do list now so you're raring to go once you arrive. Learn what makes Gainesville tick with the very best [tours & day trips](https://www.expedia.com/things-to-do/en/search?rid=6057988&rfrr=ATG.LP.BodyContent&categories=ToursDayTrips). Browse through our top {4 fun activities in Gainesville [fun activities in Gainesville](https://www.expedia.com/things-to-do/en/search?rid=6057988&rfrr=ATG.LP.BodyContent)}, and rest easy knowing that we offer free cancellation and no added fees. --- --- ## Gainesville must see attractions ### 1\. Lake Lanier Go to the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains in Georgia to visit Lake Lanier. Explore the beautiful shoreline bordering five counties while you’re boating, camping and fishing in glorious natural surroundings. Stay as long as you like at shady picnic areas and campgrounds at one of America’s top lake destinations. [Learn more ](https://www.expedia.com/Lake-Lanier-Georgia.d6337270.Vacation-Attraction) ![Lake Lanier](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6337270/995f160f-1857-4ab9-8311-ab493fa78bfa.jpg) ### 2\. Don Carter State Park Don Carter State Park is a picturesque green space made up of dense forest and waterfront sites. Its labyrinth of nature trails winds along the lake and a smaller creek, creating an idyllic spot for hikers, cyclists and equestrians. Breathe in the fresh air and relax with the slow pace in this scenic park, while leaving any worries behind. [Learn more ](https://www.expedia.com/Don-Carter-State-Park-Gainesville.d553248621561884203.Vacation-Attraction) ![Don Carter State Park](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/553248621561884203/e03d6b23-f373-4747-975d-2a6e1a3e15ee.jpg) ### 3\. Quinlan Visual Arts Center The Quinlan Visual Arts Center is an intriguing and historic gallery that brings touring art exhibits to the center of Gainesville. The gallery, which often puts on programs for children, lies in a gorgeous estate that is often used for weddings and other upscale events. Make your way through the varied art exhibits scheduled at the center during your time in Gainesville. [Learn more ](https://www.expedia.com/Quinlan-Visual-Arts-Center-Gainesville.d553248621561884197.Vacation-Attraction) ![Quinlan Visual Arts Center](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/553248621561884197/e776348b-75cd-49a6-b86b-44e0e3a9e90a.jpg) ### 4\. Wilshire Trails Park Near the heart of Gainesville, Wilshire Trails Park is a family-friendly green area filled with nature paths and family activities. It has public art displays, a butterfly garden and boardwalks, among other attractions. Enjoy a lovely day here with a trip through the forests of one of the city’s most popular parks. [Learn more ](https://www.expedia.com/Wilshire-Trails-Park-Gainesville.d553248621561884196.Vacation-Attraction) ![Wilshire Trails Park showing a park](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/553248621561884196/ec728df0-b3d1-41c8-8fbd-ca74109aa2f6.jpg) ### 5\. Elachee Nature Science Center The Elachee Nature Science Center is a large outdoor complex with stunning nature trails and exhibits designed for children. It is part of a 1,500-acre (600-hectare) nature reserve and has all types of interactive science displays. Follow one or more of the self-guided trails to appreciate gorgeous woodland views. [Learn more ](https://www.expedia.com/Elachee-Nature-Science-Center-Gainesville.d6219278.Vacation-Attraction) ![Elachee Nature Science Center](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6219278/23b0c689-d72c-45ee-a495-32235f7ef78b.jpg) ![](https://forever.travel-assets.com/flex/flexmanager/images/2026/02/06/expedia-sale-2026-desktop-us-ca.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1400&h=600&q=mediumHigh) ## The Annual Vacation Sale Members save up to 40% on hotels and homes. Plan this year’s big trip and save. [Book now](https://expedia.com/deals?rfrr=ACTIVITIES_SPRING_PROMO_6057988) ## Recommended things to do in Gainesville | Number of things to do | 4 | | ------------------------------- | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | | Cheapest thing to do on Expedia | [Lake Lanier Paddle Board and Kayak Rentals](/things-to-do/lake-lanier-paddle-board-and-kayak-rentals.a51515964.activity-details): $29 | | Top 5 things to do | [Lake Lanier Paddle Board and Kayak Rentals](/things-to-do/lake-lanier-paddle-board-and-kayak-rentals.a51515964.activity-details)[Atlanta: Mix and Match - Make Perfume or Cologne](/things-to-do/atlanta-mix-and-match-make-perfume-or-cologne.a50956518.activity-details)[Atlanta: Fragrance After Dark - Make Perfume or Cologne](/things-to-do/atlanta-fragrance-after-dark-make-perfume-or-cologne.a50949724.activity-details)[Atlanta: Make Your Perfume or Cologne (Express Edition)](/things-to-do/atlanta-make-your-perfume-or-cologne-express-edition.a50968478.activity-details) | | Under $25 | | | With kids | [Atlanta: Mix and Match - Make Perfume or Cologne](/things-to-do/atlanta-mix-and-match-make-perfume-or-cologne.a50956518.activity-details)[Atlanta: Fragrance After Dark - Make Perfume or Cologne](/things-to-do/atlanta-fragrance-after-dark-make-perfume-or-cologne.a50949724.activity-details)[Atlanta: Make Your Perfume or Cologne (Express Edition)](/things-to-do/atlanta-make-your-perfume-or-cologne-express-edition.a50968478.activity-details) | ## What to do in Gainesville - For free - With kids ### Free Things to Do in Gainesville Sightseeing on a limited budget in Gainesville? Spend time, not your paycheck, on great experiences. **Wilshire Trails Park** \- If you take pleasure in digging about the garden, this attraction will fascinate your green thumb. ### Things to Do in Gainesville with Kids There are loads of fun things to do with the kids in and around Gainesville. Keep everyone happy with our [family friendly experiences](https://www.expedia.com/things-to-do/en/search?rid=6057988&rfrr=ATG.LP.BodyContent&categories=Family%20Friendly). --- Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Gainesville? [Search event tickets](https://www.expedia.com/event-tickets/) to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend! --- --- ### Discover the most popular places to visit in Gainesville ![deep purple Queen of The Night or Black Hero Tulips in the garden surrounded by yellow daffodils and lush green leaves, trees and plants at Atlanta Botanical Gardens in Gainesville Georgia USA](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/755563111654854656/8478f23f-1dda-48d0-8cef-d54a6627de4f.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Atlanta Botanical Garden, Gainesville Explore the great outdoors at Atlanta Botanical Garden, Gainesville, a lovely green space in Gainesville. Check out the shops and top-notch restaurants in this family-friendly area. [](https://expedia.com/Atlanta-Botanical-Garden-Gainesville.d755563111654854656.Vacation-Attraction) ![Don Carter State Park](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/553248621561884203/c412d78a-1f10-4b1a-bb1d-316f079e2e57.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Don Carter State Park The only state park on vast Lake Lanier offers a range of fun water activities alongside quiet woodland trails and campsites. [](https://expedia.com/Don-Carter-State-Park-Gainesville.d553248621561884203.Vacation-Attraction) ![Quinlan Visual Arts Center](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/553248621561884197/bc159ee4-7e82-4eee-adba-efde6bd22c3d.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Quinlan Visual Arts Center This hub of artists and creativity displays a great range of touring works, so there’s something new to see and learn about each time you visit. [](https://expedia.com/Quinlan-Visual-Arts-Center-Gainesville.d553248621561884197.Vacation-Attraction) ![Wilshire Trails Park featuring a garden](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/553248621561884196/49a78f91-32d7-4e27-898f-60a469cb593d.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Wilshire Trails Park Admire the pretty vistas of Rock Creek, as you amble along multi-purpose walking trails and climb over bridges and boardwalks. [](https://expedia.com/Wilshire-Trails-Park-Gainesville.d553248621561884196.Vacation-Attraction) ![Elachee Nature Science Center](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6219278/3d432fc0-e05e-4d06-9f57-a4af6f642e7b.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Elachee Nature Science Center With its Storybook Trail and animal exhibits, this complex is popular for family and school visits, and fun and educational trips through the woods. [](https://expedia.com/Elachee-Nature-Science-Center-Gainesville.d6219278.Vacation-Attraction) #### Brenau University Enjoy the collegiate vibe at Brenau University during your stay in Gainesville. Check out the shops and top-notch restaurants in this family-friendly area. [](https://expedia.com/Brenau-University-Gainesville.d687206550349602816.Vacation-Attraction) #### Lanier Technical College Explore the campus of Lanier Technical College during your stay in Gainesville. Check out the shops and top-notch restaurants in this family-friendly area. [](https://expedia.com/Lanier-Technical-College-Gainesville.d553248635997944051.Vacation-Attraction) #### Chattahoochee Golf Club Enjoy a round of golf in Gainesville at Chattahoochee Golf Club. Check out the shops and top-notch restaurants in this family-friendly area. [](https://expedia.com/Chattahoochee-Golf-Club-Gainesville.d757000384329728000.Vacation-Attraction) #### Lake Lanier Olympic Park Explore the great outdoors at Lake Lanier Olympic Park, a lovely green space in Gainesville. Check out the shops and top-notch restaurants in this family-friendly area. [](https://expedia.com/Lake-Lanier-Olympic-Park-Gainesville.d757708125270487040.Vacation-Attraction) ### Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Gainesville ![a gorgeous spring landscape at Lanier Point Park with rippling blue water surrounded by lush green trees and plants with blue sky, clouds and a rainbow at Lake Lanier in Gainesville Georgia USA](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/908652090723786752/67963a9b-1e6c-43e5-b8e5-183203b207ee.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=350&h=192&q=medium) ### Downtown Gainesville Though Downtown Gainesville might not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Quinlan Visual Arts Center and Atlanta Botanical Garden, Gainesville. [](https://expedia.com/Gainesville-Downtown-Gainesville.dx908652090723786752) ![Lake Hartwell](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/908654094256824320/2e617a6a-905a-4f60-b4d8-b33a1d0a87b5.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=350&h=192&q=medium) ### Midtown Though Midtown might not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Quinlan Visual Arts Center and Atlanta Botanical Garden, Gainesville. [](https://expedia.com/Gainesville-Midtown.dx908654094256824320) ![Default Image](https://images.trvl-media.com/media/content/expus/graphics/deals/TE_Clouds_card_r1.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=350&h=192&q=medium) ### Westside While there might not be top attractions in Westside, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Atlanta Botanical Garden, Gainesville and Quinlan Visual Arts Center. [](https://expedia.com/Gainesville-Westside.dx988763526699069440) ![Default Image](https://images.trvl-media.com/media/content/expus/graphics/deals/TE_Clouds_card_r1.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=350&h=192&q=medium) ### Lake Ranch Estates When in Lake Ranch Estates, you can plan a visit to Chattahoochee Golf Club and Xtreme Xperience at Atlanta Motorsports Park, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area. [](https://expedia.com/Gainesville-Lake-Ranch-Estates.dx553248635976473886) [See our Where To Stay guide](https://expedia.com/Gainesville.dx6057988.Where-To-Stay?rfrr=TG.LP..Neighborhoods) --- Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check [things to do near me](https://www.expedia.com/things-to-do-near-me) to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be. --- ## Popular day trips from Gainesville ![Lake Lanier Marina in Georgia, USA](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/55095/6f39affe-5805-4ade-ae2f-2f7b51f110d2.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=512&h=288&q=medium) ### Cumming ![a gorgeous summer landscape at the vineyard with a brown wooden tables and chairs in a circle around a brown and white umbrella with wine glass on the table surrounded lush green trees and grass](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/55601/1a63921f-6b79-4d74-85cd-3a6d3f487d68.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=512&h=288&q=medium) ### Braselton ![Beautiful aerial view of Marina at Lake Lanier shot during golden hour in Buford, GA, USA](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/84341/4dc2477a-c953-4dba-ad7f-aa77da65f67f.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=512&h=288&q=medium) ### Buford ![Beautiful Mountain View](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/95441/40f6aa0a-71bc-4e73-acef-b691f9b88025.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=512&h=288&q=medium) ### Dawsonville ![Lake Lanier, Georgia / USA](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/140613/57fe0b72-0709-4824-945a-ed00b1e0ffb4.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=512&h=288&q=medium) ### Oakwood ![Aerial view upscale houses with side garage entry in new development subdivision sprawl leads to horizontal line under rare cloud formation suburbs Atlanta, Georgia, USA](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/183130/993f0a32-e94e-467d-b3b0-6e2899e7d32f.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=512&h=288&q=medium) ### Flowery Branch ## Frequently asked questions ### Is Gainesville worth visiting? ### How do I spend a day in Gainesville? ### What is the top tourist attraction in Gainesville? ### Is three days enough to stay in Gainesville? ### What are some activities to do in Gainesville with kids? > - [Atlanta: Mix and Match - Make Perfume or Cologne](https://expedia.com/things-to-do/atlanta-mix-and-match-make-perfume-or-cologne.a50956518.activity-details) > - [Atlanta: Fragrance After Dark - Make Perfume or Cologne](https://expedia.com/things-to-do/atlanta-fragrance-after-dark-make-perfume-or-cologne.a50949724.activity-details) > - [Atlanta: Make Your Perfume or Cologne (Express Edition)](https://expedia.com/things-to-do/atlanta-make-your-perfume-or-cologne-express-edition.a50968478.activity-details) ### What to do in Gainesville for adults? ### Are there free things to do in Gainesville?