Looking for small-town charm with big-city access? Discover Lawrenceville! Just 30 miles northeast of Atlanta, Lawrenceville blends Southern history with modern amenities. Explore walkable downtown streets, grab a bite at local eateries, catch a live show, or enjoy family fun at nearby parks and museums.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Lawrenceville is during the spring and fall (March–May and September–November). Expect pleasant weather, outdoor events, and blooming landscapes. Summers are warm but great for enjoying splash pads and summer concerts.

How to Get There

  • If you are traveling by car: Lawrenceville is located off GA-316 and I-85, about 40 minutes from downtown Atlanta.
  • By Plane: Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) is about 1 hour away by car.
  • By Bus: Local routes through Gwinnett County Transit connect to the Atlanta metro area.

Where to Stay

  • Homewood Suites by Hilton – Comfortable extended-stay option with free breakfast and modern amenities.
  • Hampton Inn Lawrenceville – Reliable and centrally located near major roads and shopping centers.
  • Athena Farms Airbnb – Charming countryside stays just outside town for a rustic, peaceful retreat.

Top Attractions

1. Catch a Game and Family Fun at CoolRay Field

Catch a Game and Family Fun at CoolRay Field

© JJAVA/stock.adobe.com

CoolRay Field in Lawrenceville, Georgia is home to its own affiliate of the Atlanta Braves, the AAA Gwinnett Stripers baseball team. This 10,000-seat, state-of-the-art stadium is conveniently located right off of Interstate 85, not too far from the Mall of Georgia. The baseball stadium features a variety of suites able to accommodate 25 or more people, depending on the size, batting cages with a comfortable viewing area, the Home Plate Club with an outdoor patio and full-service bar, a Super Suite with buffet and full-service bar, and even a Game Suite complete with a Foosball table, shuffleboard, and X-Box.

2500 Buford Dr, Lawrenceville, GA 30043, 678-277-0340

2. Enjoy Live Performances at the Aurora Theatre

Enjoy Live Performances at the Aurora Theatre

© gen_A/stock.adobe.com

The Aurora Theatre is known for being one of the premiere theatrical venues in the Metropolitan Atlanta area, offering a chance for guests to experience intimate grandeur. The theatre facility includes two distinct theaters, the smaller Peach State Federal Credit Union Studio and the larger Metro Waterproofing Strickland Family Stage, as well as an attached four-story parking deck that provides complimentary parking. Along with contemporary theatre and big name Broadway musicals and plays, the Aurora Theatre also produces children’s programs, stand-up comedy, and concerts. It also offers the only Spanish language theatre in Atlanta, Teatro Aurora, and the Lawrenceville Ghost Tours.

128 E Pike St, Lawrenceville, GA 30046, Phone: 678-226-6222

3. Step into the Past at the Gwinnett Historic Courthouse

Step into the Past at the Gwinnett Historic Courthouse

© ianm35/stock.adobe.com

The Gwinnett Historic Courthouse, constructed back in 1885, majestically sits on the main square of historic downtown Lawrenceville, Georgia. The grounds and historic building hosts many special events year-round, such as the Old Fashioned Picnic and the Annual Tree Lighting, and are also available for private rentals. The surrounding 2.5 acres of grounds feature art exhibits and several historic markers and sites, ranging from county historical information to local characters and heroes. The Gwinnett Historic Courthouse is open to the public Monday to Friday from 10:00am until 4:00pm and Saturday from 10:00am until 2:00pm.

185 W Crogan St, Lawrenceville, GA 30046, Phone: 770-822-5450

4. Sip Local Craft Brews at Slow Pour Brewing

Sip Local Craft Brews at Slow Pour Brewing

© Slow Pour Brewing

Starting out as simply a what-if conversation, Slow Pour Brewing first opened its doors in the Lawrenceville community in 2017. The 3,000-square-foot tasting room at the brewery offers a relaxed, welcoming, and warm atmosphere for friends to gather and have a conversation over a delicious pint or two of Slow Pour Brewing’s innovative craft brews. The beer garden and inviting tasting room are open seven days a week and aim to provide everyone with a place where they “want to be,” a place where they can make the most of the moment, play games, and spend time with others.

407 N Clayton St, Lawrenceville, GA 30046

Where to Eat

5. Savor Island Flavors at Papi’s Cuban and Caribbean Grill

Savor Island Flavors at Papi’s Cuban and Caribbean Grill

© Papi's Cuban and Caribbean Grill

Papi's Cuban and Caribbean Grill offers both visitors and local residents alike in the city of Lawrenceville, Georgia a taste of Cuba and the Caribbean without the need to hop on a plane. With a menu featuring the indigenous flavors of the tropics, the restaurant gives careful attention to authenticity and uses recipes that have been handed down over generations. Papi's Cuban and Caribbean Grill is open Sunday to Thursday from 12:00pm until 8:00pm and from 12:00pm until 9:00pm on Friday and Saturday. Papi’s has expanded over the years to include several locations in the Atlanta area.

911 Duluth Hwy, Lawrenceville, GA 30043, Phone: 770-237-8889

6. Start Your Day Right at The 5 Spot Cafe

Start Your Day Right at The 5 Spot Cafe

© The 5 Spot Cafe

The 5 Spot Cafe offers a great place for locals and tourists alike to start their day with a delicious breakfast. There is a wide variety of options on the menu, including gluten-free options, that cater to all sorts of tastes, including sweet french toast, savory country-fried steak, and hearty omelettes. The cafe also serves lighter options for lunch like its selection of sandwiches and an array of entrees for a filling dinner. The 5 Spot Cafe is open Monday to Saturday from 8:00am until 8:00pm and on Sunday from 8:00am until 3:00pm.

555 Progress Center Ave, Lawrenceville, GA 30043, Phone: 470-294-1456

7. Dig Into Southern Smoke at Foggy Bottom BBQ Lawrenceville

Dig Into Southern Smoke at Foggy Bottom BBQ Lawrenceville

© Foggy Bottom BBQ Lawrenceville

Foggy Bottom BBQ started out in Loganville in 2012 and has now brought their “BBQ Bible” of delicious special recipes to downtown Lawrenceville. The motto of the popular local restaurant is “faith, family and fresh barbecue.” Guests can find plenty to choose from off the Foggy Bottom BBQ menu, such as “For the Table” appetizers, sandwiches, salads, samplers, and a variety of sides. Then there’s the “Pit Plates,” the restaurant’s lineup of barbeque staples like smoked turkey, ribs, smoked chicken, beef brisket, and pulled pork. To end a delicious meal here, the popular choice is the banana pudding.

202 W Crogan St, Lawrenceville, GA 30046, Phone: 678-878-3251

Must-see if you are a first-time visitor:

  • Downtown Lawrenceville Square – Explore boutique shops, local dining, and seasonal festivals in a walkable district.
  • Rhodes Jordan Park – A scenic park with a lake, walking trails, playgrounds, and sports courts.

Where to Eat

  • Local Republic – Eclectic and elevated Southern-American cuisine with craft beer and a lively atmosphere.
  • Papi’s Cuban Grill – Authentic Cuban fare with bold flavors and colorful décor right on the square.
  • Peachy Corners Café – Cozy café offering breakfast, coffee, and friendly vibes just minutes from downtown.

If you are interested in local events:

  • Spring Green Festival (April) – Celebrate Earth Day with eco-friendly vendors, music, and community fun.
  • Summer Concerts on the Lawn (June–August) – Enjoy live music and food trucks under the stars on the courthouse lawn.
  • Hometown Holiday Parade (December) – Festive floats, twinkling lights, and cheerful holiday spirit downtown.

If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes of Lawrenceville, Georgia:

  • Suwanee (15–20 min) – Visit Town Center Park for green space, events, dining, and public art.
  • Dacula (15–20 min) – Relax in Rabbit Hill Park or shop at local farmers markets in this quiet suburb.
  • Stone Mountain Park (30 min) – Hike, ride the scenic railroad, or see the laser show at Georgia’s iconic rock formation.
  • Buford (20–25 min) – Shop at the Mall of Georgia or hike around the lakes at Bogan Park.
  • Atlanta Botanical Garden, Gainesville (30 min) – Beautiful gardens and seasonal displays in a tranquil natural setting.
  • Yellow River Wildlife Sanctuary (25–30 min) – Feed animals and walk wooded paths at this charming rescue sanctuary.

Frequently Asked Questions:

  • What attractions can visitors explore in Lawrenceville, GA?
  • Where can visitors enjoy live entertainment in Lawrenceville?
    • Live musical talent is showcased in a variety of venues in town, with Aurora Theatre being the premiere venue for live theatre performances.
  • What historic sites should visitors see in Lawrenceville?
  • What makes Lawrenceville’s downtown district special?
    • The downtown district of Lawrenceville is also a great place to simply explore the numerous shops, relax, and take in the atmosphere of the historic town.

At a Glance:


Best Time to Visit Places to Stay Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Ideal weather for outdoor events and sightseeing. Hampton Inn Lawrenceville – A comfortable stay with easy access to downtown. Visit Rhodes Jordan Park – Enjoy scenic trails, a lake, and picnic spots.
Summer (June-August) – Warm temperatures, great for family activities. Homewood Suites by Hilton Lawrenceville – A family-friendly stay near top attractions. Explore Aurora Theatre – Catch a live performance in a historic setting.
Fall (September-November) – Beautiful foliage and enjoyable festivals. Country Inn & Suites by Radisson – A convenient and budget-friendly option. Attend Lawrenceville Ghost Tours – A fun way to learn about the city's history.

Plan Your Trip