Visiting Gainesvile, FL - GO GATORS!
University of Florida
A Mix of College Town Amenities and Historic Sites
Whether you are taking a campus stroll or are an outdoor aficionado - Gainesville, Fl has something to offer everyone.
Gainesville is home to the University of Florida. While there are plenty of college town amenities - tattoo parlors, sub shops, campus living and nightlife; Gainesville also offers a menagerie of diverse and cultural sightseeing experiences for any visitor.
Fun Facts!
Did you know GATORADE was invented by researchers at the University of Florida? The sports beverage was named after the university mascot - The Gators!
Tom Petty and The Heart Breakers, formerly members of 'Mudcrutch' found their separate ways to Los Angeles to seek fame and fortune, ended up together again, and became household names in the recording industry. Bernie Leadon and Don Felder were residents of Gainesville before becoming members of The Eagles. Steven Stills lived in Gainesville before joining Crosby, Stills, and Nash.
references: funtrivia.com
Paynes Prairie
Santa Fe River
Enjoy the Florida Outdoors
If you love the outdoors, visiting Gainesville will offer a plethora of nature based activities. Visit Paynes Prairie, a 20,000 acre wildlife sanctuary just outside the city. Also, Morning Side Nature Center is Gainesville’s premier nature park and has more than seven miles of trails. One of the most popular destinations is the Santa Fe River. Many take advantage of daily and overnight canoe trips as well as moonlight canoe trips down this famous Florida river. Keep in mind also that Gainesville is only an hour away from the coast so a day trip can be planned to Daytona Beach or historic St. Augustine. Also A couple hours away is TampaBay, Treasure Coast or Orlando.
Downtown Gainesville
Gainesville's primary economic hub is Shands Hospital, one of the largest teaching hospitals and the number one trauma center in the country. This provides many activities for visitors and families to enjoy Gainesville whether employed in the health care industry or simply visiting loved ones at Shands.
The bustling urban forest city has a gorgeous downtown square which has an array of events throughout the year.
In the warmer months visitors can attend the local farmers markets or perhaps attend an outdoor concert in the center square. Surrounding the square park are many quality restaurants offering everything from Tapas’ to Sushi.
If visiting, enjoy the entertainment of the Hippodrome; Gainesville’s historic professional, Equity Theater - offering musicals, dance and plays year round. Museums and art galleries are scattered throughout the city as art abounds! There are many annual art festivals and family events associated with this cultural college town!
