Welcome to Buford
An effortlessly cool downtown acts as the heartbeat of Buford, a south-end Lake Lanier town that’s equal part trendy and historic. Century-old buildings now house art galleries, independent boutiques, and foodie-approved cafes, and on weekends the arbored streets are bustling with happy-go-lucky residents connecting with their community.
Under an hour from Atlanta, Buford real estate is ideal for commuters and professionals, though it still carries a city-like swagger of its own that’s completely unique from ATL. Buford was incorporated in 1872, and since then, it has exploded into a destination city of resorts, shopping, and Lake Lanier fun.
Regal custom new builds are all the rage in Buford, though the city is one of the most architecturally diverse places on the lake. Buford homes for sale features private wooded plots and lush, immaculate lawns provide a suburban/rural feel despite the city’s many amenities and attractions. Ranches, traditional farmhouses, single-family homes, and sweeping modern abodes are all possible within the residential real estate market of Buford.
What to Love
- Easy access to ATL via 985 and 85
- Incredible educational opportunities within the Buford City School District
- Resorts and marinas, including Lake Lanier Islands and Holiday Marina
Local Lifestyle
While spots like the Holiday Marina have been graced by the presence of big-name athletes and celebrities, including Elton John, for years, the town has never lost its down-to-earth attitude. Buford manages to retain an unending amount of Southern hospitality and charm, even as it serves as one of the area’s hottest retail and commercial destinations.
Dining, Entertainment, and Shopping
There’s no place better for shopping in Buford than the Mall of Georgia — just one of the city’s many alluring features. Among the top retail destinations in the entire Southeast US, the Mall of Georgia is packed with nearly 200 stores, including Apple, Coach, Lush, and Pottery Barn. Another popular spot is The Exchange, the county’s brand-new mixed-use commercial epicenter that offers entertainment activities like go-karting and Top Golf along with a bevy of stores and great eats.
Buford is a cornucopia of local, independent boutiques, quirky shops, and restaurants, such as Painted Tree Buford. Recognized across the country for its inventory of both home goods and fashion, Painted Tree is a shopper’s paradise on those days when you need a little bit of everything.
Sperata is Buford’s premier fine dining establishment, serving globally inspired American and European cuisine pioneered by renowned executive chef Christopher Hope. Rico’s World Kitchen offers a more relaxed vibe — its light, airy venue makes the perfect background for the array of global comfort dishes. American food with Southern flair isn’t center stage at 37 Main Buford, but it certainly could be. While patrons come for the live concerts and great beer, they stay for the classic pub fare elevated to gourmet status.
Things to Do
Buford is also home to Coolray Field, a 10,427-seat minor league baseball park in unincorporated Gwinnett County, Georgia. The field serves as the home field for the Gwinnett Stripers, the Triple-A affiliate of the Atlanta Braves.
Schools in Buford
Buford is home to several excellent schools, and the Buford City School District contains several of the best-ranked schools in the state. Top educational opportunities include:
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Buford Academy, 1-3, the #1 ranked public elementary in Georgia
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Buford High School, 9-12, the #15 ranked public high school in Georgia, often referred to as “The University of Buford” due to its outstanding academics and sports facilities
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Buford Middle School, 6-8, the #5 ranked public middle school in Georgia
