Lake Lanier Olympic Park
Gainesville, Georgia
The 1996 Olympic rowing and kayaking races ran right here, and the timing tower still stands over the water. Today it's an ADA-accessible lakeside park with a public beach area, picnic pavilions, a butterfly garden, and fishing spots — and on lucky mornings the kids can watch real rowing crews slice past. Bring a bag for wet gear unless you enjoy discovering a damp surprise in the car the next morning.
Before you go
Best time to visit: Year-round
Worth packing
- Picnic blanket
- Sunscreen
- Water bottles
Good to know
- Restrooms
- Parking
- Picnic tables
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More family fun nearby: Things to do in Gainesville