Life in Gainesville
Gainesville is the county seat of Alachua in Florida, and the Downtown district is a hive of exciting things to do. Downtown Gainesville’s historic character and charm are accentuated by an abundance of parks and conservation areas so there’s a fantastic array of outdoor activities ranging from hiking to golf courses right in the heart of the city.
Nature
Gainesville, The First Butterfly City, is a green city of trees located in north-central Florida. It is surrounded by beautiful natural springs, lakes, parks, and scenic trails. The semi-tropical climate is pleasant year-round and promotes myriad outdoor activities for sports and nature enthusiasts. Check out Lake Wauburg, Payne’s Prairie, Kanapaha Botanical Gardens, Ginnie Springs, and Devil’s Millhopper.
Culture
Gainesville is a vibrant university town with an active music, dance, theater, and art scene. Year-round festivals and farmer’s markets attract locals and visitors to the area. There are galleries, museums, race tracks, zoos, libraries, and plenty of sporting events to satisfy every passion!
Top 10 Things
to do in Gainesville
Samuel P. Harn Museum of Art
Located near the University of Florida, the Harn Museum of Art is a renowned art museum showcasing a diverse collection of artworks from around the world, spanning various periods and mediums.
The Hippodrome State Theatre
Situated in downtown Gainesville, the Hippodrome State Theatre is a cultural hub that presents a wide range of theatrical productions, including plays, musicals, and film screenings, offering a vibrant and engaging experience for theater enthusiasts.
Butterfly Rainforest
Nestled within the Florida Museum of Natural History, the Butterfly Rainforest is a mesmerizing indoor exhibit featuring lush tropical gardens filled with hundreds of free-flying butterflies and colorful native plants, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in a serene and enchanting environment.
Sweetwater Wetlands Park
Located just south of the University of Florida, Sweetwater Wetlands Park is a haven for wildlife and nature lovers, offering a network of trails that wind through beautiful wetland habitats, providing opportunities for birdwatching, photography, and peaceful walks in nature.
Pascal's Coffee House
A popular coffee spot near the University of Florida, Pascal's Coffee House offers a cozy and relaxed atmosphere, serving a variety of delicious coffee beverages, pastries, and light snacks, making it an ideal spot for students and locals to study or socialize.
Lake Alice
Situated on the University of Florida campus, Lake Alice is a picturesque lake surrounded by serene nature trails, offering a tranquil retreat for walking, picnicking, and observing the abundant wildlife, including alligators, turtles, and various bird species.
Florida State Museum of Natural History
Located on the University of Florida campus, the Florida State Museum of Natural History is a fascinating destination for learning about the state's natural heritage. It features exhibits on paleontology, archaeology, biodiversity, and cultural history, showcasing Florida's rich natural and cultural diversity.
Payne's Prairie
Just south of Gainesville, Payne's Prairie is a vast and diverse preserve known for its unique ecosystems, including wetlands, grasslands, and forests. Visitors can enjoy hiking, birdwatching, and wildlife spotting, with the possibility of encountering herds of wild horses or bison roaming freely.
La Chua Trail
A part of Payne's Prairie Preserve, the La Chua Trail is a popular trailhead offering a scenic and immersive wildlife experience. Visitors can walk along the trail, spotting alligators, birds, and other wildlife in their natural habitats, while enjoying panoramic views of the prairie.
Ben Hill Griffin Stadium
Also known as "The Swamp," Ben Hill Griffin Stadium is the iconic home stadium of the University of Florida Gators football team. It is one of the largest college football stadiums in the United States, with a seating capacity of over 88,000, and offers an electric atmosphere during home games.