Buford, GA
County: Gwinnett
History
Buford, Georgia is a small city located in Gwinnett County, Georgia. It is part of the Atlanta metropolitan area. The history of Buford dates back to the early 19th century.
Buford was originally settled in the early 1820s by Joshua S. Everett. He built the first log cabin in the area, and the settlement eventually became known as the City of Marion. The town grew slowly, with a few homes, a blacksmith shop, a school, and a post office. It was renamed Buford in 1872, in honor of Algernon Sidney Buford, a Confederate Colonel from the American Civil War.
The construction of the Atlanta and Richmond Air-Line Railway through the town in the 1870s brought economic growth and prosperity to Buford. It became a major railroad hub in the region, leading to increased industrial activity and trade. The railroad helped transport goods and people to and from Atlanta, contributing to the town's development.
In the early 20th century, Buford experienced several fires that destroyed many of its buildings. However, each time the town was rebuilt and continued to prosper. The railroad played a crucial role in the town's economy until the decline of railroad transportation in the mid-20th century.
In recent years, Buford has undergone significant growth and transformation. As Atlanta expanded, many people moved to the suburbs seeking a small-town atmosphere. The city experienced a population boom and has become a vibrant and prosperous community.
Today, Buford is known for its excellent schools, family-friendly neighborhoods, and a wide range of recreational opportunities. The city is also home to the Mall of Georgia, which is one of the largest shopping malls in the Southeastern United States. Buford continues to thrive and attract residents and businesses, maintaining a balance between preserving its history and embracing modern development.
Attractions
Mall of Georgia
This massive shopping center features over 200 stores, including major retailers and specialty shops.
Bogan Park Community Recreation and Aquatic Center
This 83-acre park offers a variety of recreational activities, including walking trails, sports fields, playgrounds, and a water park.
Buford Dam Park and Lake Lanier
Located along the Chattahoochee River, this park offers fishing, boating, camping, and hiking opportunities.
Buford City Park
This park features picnic areas, sports fields, a playground, and a splash pad for kids.
The Buford History Museum
Explore the history of Buford through exhibits that showcase the city's past and artifacts from the local community.
Treetop Quest Buford
This outdoor adventure park offers zip-lining, aerial obstacle courses, and climbing challenges for all skill levels.
Bona Allen Mansion
A historic mansion built in 1910, offering guided tours and events.
Buford Community Center
This modern event venue hosts concerts, theatrical performances, art exhibits, and community activities.
Buford Community Center Amphitheater
This outdoor concert venue hosts live music events throughout the year.
Buford Highway Farmers Market
A multicultural grocery store with an extensive selection of international produce, seafood, meats, and specialty items.
Climate
Buford, Georgia, experiences a humid subtropical climate. Summers in Buford are typically hot and humid, with average high temperatures reaching the mid-80s to low 90s Fahrenheit (around 30-35 degrees Celsius). The city receives a fair amount of rainfall during the summer months, with thunderstorms being quite common.
Winters in Buford are generally mild with average high temperatures in the 50s to low 60s Fahrenheit (10-15 degrees Celsius). However, occasional cold spells can bring temperatures below freezing. Snowfall is relatively rare in Buford, but it can occur occasionally during the colder months.
During the spring and fall seasons, Buford experiences mild to warm temperatures. Springtime brings more rainfall to the area, while autumn is generally drier and cooler.
Overall, Buford has a comfortable climate throughout the year, with a significant amount of precipitation distributed fairly evenly across the seasons.
Neighborhoods
Buford, GA is a city located in Gwinnett and Hall counties in the state of Georgia. It is divided into several neighborhoods, each with its own unique characteristics. Here are some of the neighborhoods in Buford:
Historic Downtown Buford
This neighborhood is the heart of the city and features buildings dating back to the late 1800s and early 1900s. It is a bustling area with a variety of locally-owned shops, restaurants, and events. The Buford Community Center, Buford Museum, and several parks are also located here.
Mall of Georgia area
This neighborhood is centered around the Mall of Georgia, one of the largest shopping malls in the Southeast. It is a commercial hub with numerous retail stores, restaurants, and entertainment options. The area also includes residential communities, hotels, and office spaces.
Buford Village
Located near downtown Buford, this neighborhood is known for its charming atmosphere and small-town feel. It features picturesque houses, tree-lined streets, and a mix of local businesses. Buford City Park and the Buford Community Center are also nearby.
Hamilton Mill
Situated in the northern part of Buford, Hamilton Mill is a planned community known for its upscale homes, golf courses, and country club. It offers a range of amenities, including swimming pools, tennis courts, and playgrounds. The neighborhood has a suburban feel with many residential developments.
Flowery Branch Road
This neighborhood is located towards the west of Buford and is known for its scenic beauty. It features large residential lots, rolling hills, and easy access to Lake Lanier. Flowery Branch Road is a popular area for those seeking a more rural or suburban lifestyle.
South Buford
Situated in southern Buford, this neighborhood is mainly residential and features a mix of single-family homes, townhouses, and apartments. It offers a suburban feel with access to various amenities, schools, and parks. South Buford is known for its family-friendly environment.
These are just a few of the many neighborhoods in Buford, GA. Each has its own unique characteristics, amenities, and attractions, catering to a diverse range of residents and visitors.