Top 10 Cool and Unusual Hotels in Lake Lanier

Perched majestically at the foothills of the Georgia Blue Ridge Mountains, Lake Sidney Lanier is one of the most popular lakes in America. This scenic water body attracts over 11 million nature lovers and water sports adventurers each year, given its abundant recreational opportunities.

The lake is surrounded by more than 70 recreational sites, including the Lake Lanier Islands, nature parks, camping sites, marinas, and more. Travelers can divide their time between Alpharetta’s exciting downtown area and Lake Lanier’s 690-mile shoreline. Finding the right accommodation is instrumental to maximizing convenience for vacationers eager to make the most of their time in the region.

From boutique hotels and luxury resorts to centrally located vacation homes and quaint lodges here are the best cool and unusual hotels in Lake Lanier, Georgia (in no particular order)…

1. Chateau Elan Winery – an iconic and elegant winery resort perfect for wine lovers

One of the leading destination resorts in Georgia, the Chateau Elan Winery welcomes nature lovers to connect with Mother Nature in a 3,500 acres estate with wooded forests and rolling hills. Inspired by the French countryside, this lavish estate is home to deluxe accommodations, a 45-hole championship golf course, sports clubs, multiple onsite restaurants, and a world-class spa.

Vacationers can find their match in the Chateau’s extensive lineup of luxurious rooms, spa-themed suites, and two and three-bedroom villas. The living and lounging spaces mimic a wellness sanctuary with their serene color palettes and minimalist décor.

Guests can enjoy indulgent spa treatments, dine at the elegant Southern-style chophouse or mingle with fellow travelers at the authentic Irish pub.

To book, check prices or availability for Chateau Elan Winery

2. Aloft Alpharetta – a colorful, funky, and fun party hotel to stay in Lake Lanier perfect for Millenials and Gen Zs

Ideally located in the heart of Alpharetta, Aloft curates a digitally-savvy and comfortable experience for modern travelers. This upscale hotel offers comfortable rooms and suites to accommodate solo travelers, couples, families, and large groups.

Guests have everything they need within reach, from in-room appliances and lavish amenities to a 24-hour pantry, fitness studio, meeting rooms, and events space.

The business-friendly amenities and high-speed WiFi make Aloft a popular choice among business travelers and digital nomads. The hotel offers elaborate workstations, plug-and-play connectivity stations, and tasteful event rooms to host corporate events and meetings.

The onsite W XYZ Bar is a popular local hangout spot, and guests can also socialize in the Re:mix Lounge.

To book, check prices or availability for Aloft Alpharetta

3. Atlanta Metro Home – Sweet Home Georgia Amour – a swanky and laid-back guesthouse to gather friends and family

Vacationers seeking independence and privacy will fall in love with the Atlanta Metro Home Sweet Home – an idyllic getaway with a splendid location. This centrally located vacation rental positions guests in the center of a historical town, surrounded by art, culture, gastronomy, nature, and retail.

The one-bedroom unit offers a peaceful setting and ample space to feel comfortable. Solo travelers and couples find the family-oriented community and quiet neighborhood ideally suited, allowing them to feel safe and right at home.

The unit has been recently renovated to offer modern amenities and comfortable furnishings. The well-stocked kitchen and dining space have a cozy ambiance to prepare and enjoy home-cooked meals.

To book, check prices or availability for Atlanta Metro Home – Sweet Home Georgia Amour

4. The Hotel at Avalon, Autograph Collection – a contemporary hotel housed in a concrete and brick exterior

The Hotel at Avalon offers a grand experience with indulgent resort amenities with 330 guest rooms and suites adorned with a traditional Southern-style appeal. Inspired by the mythical island of Avalon, this resort pampers its guests with a multitude of luxurious pleasures that represent the “Good Life.”

The extensive selection of suites offers a little something for every traveler, from standard rooms and junior suites to luxe suites with spa-like bathrooms. The amenities maximize comfort and convenience, and living spaces offer thoughtful workstations for vacationers planning to balance work and play.

The onsite South City Kitchen is a riotous dining spot to feast on chef-inspired cuisine, while the lobby bar serves flavorful cocktails with nighttime festivities.

To book, check prices or availability for The Hotel at Avalon, Autograph Collection

5. The Hamilton Alpharetta, Curio Collection By Hilton – one of the most Instagrammable hotels in Lake Lanier

The Hamilton is a charming amalgamation of classical architecture and contemporary industrial-style accents, creating an exceptional design that is a sacred nod to the industrial insurgence of Georgia. The interiors are drenched in bold colors, rich textures, and finely crafted furniture with a characterful vintage appeal.

Nestled in the heart of Alpharetta’s historic district, the Hamilton offers immaculate guest rooms and sweets decked with modern amenities and luxurious comforts. Guests enjoy oversized HDTVs, in-room appliances, deluxe bedding, and luxe bath amenities.

The hotel is also home to three onsite restaurants specializing in Southern fares, a 3,000-square-foot indoor and patio event space, a fitness center, and meeting rooms.

To book, check prices or availability for The Hamilton Alpharetta, Curio Collection By Hilton

6. Tru Lawrenceville Atlanta I85 Sugarloaf – a cool, trendy and unique hotel which is allergy-free

Situated a stone’s throw away from the retail heaven of Sugarloaf Mills, Tru Lawrenceville offers a central location to enjoy downtown attractions without distancing oneself from Lake Lanier and Stone Mountain Park. The Mall of Georgia and popular dining spots are just 15 minutes away.

Tru Lawerenceville offers an indulgent staycation experience by pampering guests with multiple in-room appliances, plump bedding, daily build-your-own-breakfast stations, and a 24-hour market to temper midnight cravings. Families and large groups can explore connecting rooms and request additional furniture to maximize their comfort.

The venue offers a selection of pet-friendly rooms, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and a business center.

To book, check prices or availability for Tru Lawrenceville Atlanta I85 Sugarloaf

7. Lanier Islands Legacy Lodge – a bright, lakefront resort perfect for families or couples

The Lanier Islands Legacy Lodge reinvents sweet Southern hospitality with lavish amenities, diligent service, and keen attention to detail. This unpretentious venue offers a home-away-from-home with resort-like amenities, including a saltwater swimming pool, in-room appliances, a fitness studio, a business center, and several onsite dining spots.

This pet-friendly lodge offers 214 accommodations, including king rooms, family-friendly rooms, double-queen rooms, and king suites. The rooms and suites are adorned with classic Southern accents, flat-screen TVs, smart appliances, and marble-clad bathtubs. Many accommodations come with sprawling balconies or patios to enjoy stunning lake views.

Guests prefer dining at the in-house fine dining establishment, Sidney’s, followed by drinks at the poolside Bullfrog’s.

To book, check prices or availability for Lanier Islands Legacy Lodge

8. EVEN Hotel Alpharetta – Avalon Area, an IHG Hotel – a trendy wellness hotel where your furry friends are also welcome

A wellness-themed hotel with a central location, EVEN Hotel is a popular choice for fitness enthusiasts who don’t want to neglect their health while traveling. The modern accommodations feature in-room fitness equipment, while the premises also offers a well-equipped Athletic Studio.

The Wellness rooms and suites offer 15-inch pillow-top mattresses, plush bedding, in-room fitness areas, smart appliances, workspaces, and mood-changing lights.

The Wellness Suites are more suitable for large groups and families, offering a king bedroom with an ensuite bathroom, a kitchenette, a living room, and a wet bar area.

Travelers staying at EVEN can easily walk over to the Ameris Bank Amphitheatre to attend a concert or explore the local cuisine at downtown’s vibrant food district.

To book, check prices or availability for EVEN Hotel Alpharetta – Avalon Area, an IHG Hotel

9. Aloft Lawrenceville Sugarloaf – a hip and trendy laid-back hotel that offers great amenities and a fun stay

Aloft pampers modern travelers with stylish accommodations, digitally savvy amenities, and business-friendly facilities to support a healthy work-play balance. This pet-friendly establishment in Lawrenceville offers a convenient location to enjoy the best of local attractions, including the Sugarloaf Mills Mall, Gas South Arena, and the Gwinnett Stripers Coolray Field.

This brand-new location specializes in clutter-free, minimalist accommodations featuring sleek bathrooms, in-room appliances, and luxurious amenities. Guests enjoy access to an indoor pool, a 24-hour fitness studio, and a soothing outdoor space at the onsite venue, The Backyard.

Aloft is also home to a grab-and-go snack bar, a 24/7 pantry, and two meeting spaces to organize meetings and corporate events.

To book, check prices or availability for Aloft Lawrenceville Sugarloaf

10. Choctaw Lodge – a rustic-chic holiday home that provides a peaceful setting where you can unplug and unwind

Situated in the charming neighborhood of Marblehill, Choctaw Lodge is a 3-bedroom holiday home with a sprawling terrace to soak up the sweeping views. The furnished lodge offers the unpretentious comfort and independence of home with a multitude of amenities and appliances to maximize convenience.

Guests have access to a free private parking space, high-speed WiFi, and 24-hour front desk support. The living room features a flat-screen TV with satellite channels and comfortable furniture to lounge around.

The stainless steel kitchen is fully equipped with appliances and cookware needed to prepare wholesome meals.

The location is ideal for nature enthusiasts, for it offers proximity to Eagle’s Rest Park, Amicalola Falls State Park, and Doris Wiggington City Park.

To book, check prices or availability for Choctaw Lodge

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Becky Moore

My first true adventure began as a six month voyage around South East Asia as a fresh faced backpacker and ever since I’ve lived a semi nomadic existence, clocking up visits to over 40 countries. I’m a lover of US Road Trips, deserted beaches bathed in warm glow of a sunset, Cuban mojitos, travel destinations far away from the tourist crowds and all things Scandinavian – from cloudberry liquors to Nordic noirs. When not wandering the world and running Global Grasshopper, you’ll find me walking my rescued Greek street dog in leafy South West London, strolling around the Brighton Lanes on random day trips, hunting for photogenic landscapes or daydreaming about my favourite places; Havana, Copenhagen, Italy, Laos, California and the surreally beautiful landscapes of a wintry Iceland.