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The largest city in North Central Florida with a population of 133,000 people is called Gainesville. It is the county city of Alechua County and one of the best places to live in Florida.
Gainesville History
In times of the Civil War, Gainesville was a major Confederate Commissary and the site of two battles. After a reconstruction, two schools were established, the Union Academy for African Americans and the East Florida Seminary for whites. There were two major fires in 1880, after which the city was rebuilt. One of the most significant events in the city’s history is the opening of the University of Florida.
Gainesville Attractions
As a famous university town, Gainesville has a lot to offer for families and young people. From museums and galleries to parks and conservations. The Florida Museum of Natural History is something you can’t miss. If you want to see dinosaur fossils or Native American artifacts, here there are over 40 million specimens and cultural artifacts. You can even enjoy hundreds of live butterflies in the Butterfly rainforest exhibit.
Gainesville Activities
- Ben Hill Griffin Stadium - also called “the Swamp” one of the largest stadiums in college football, the home Florida Gators. Built in 1930, it has the capacity of 88,000 people, although it is a tough place to play because of the warm and humid climate.
- Kanapaha Botanical gardens - 68 acres filled with Florida’s largest public display of bamboo and a massive herb garden. You can find 14 different gardens, an arboretum, greenhouse and so much more.
- Kika Silva Pla Planetarium - located on the Santa Fe college Campus, is a place your kids would love. You can be part of an interactive show or Music 360, which involves listening to music surrounded by 360 degrees of computer animated video.
Gainesville Entertainment
Make your visit to Gainesville a memorable one. You can play mini golf at the Pink Flamingo Diner Mini Golf course on a professionally designed 18 hole course. Each of the 18 holes has an educational sign and provides education, as well as recreation. Gainesville is also the home of a lot of festivals, like Spring Garden festival, Butterfly fest, and Florida Bat festival. Every April, there is a Hogtown Craft Beer festival, where you can find a vast variety of local, regional and national beers. The Florida Museum of Natural History hosts the Butterfly fest. It is fun for all ages, with workshops and lectures, as well as food and entertainment.
Gainesville Lodging
If you want a historic bed-and-breakfast, then Sweetwater branch Inn offers a unique lodging experience with tastefully decorated rooms or unique cottages. And if you are unfamiliar with the Southern hospitality, there is a beautifully restored 1885 Victorian home, called the Laurel Oak Inn. You can find it in the Historic District in Gainesville. If you are looking for a luxury hotel, then look no further. DoubleTree by Hilton is close to the University and stadium. It offers onsite dining, a bar, pool and so much more.
Gainesville Dining
This college town has an outstanding culinary scene. You can taste Italian food at Pomodoro Cafe or Sathcel’s Pizza. The best restaurants in town for Mexican food are La Tienda and Cilantro Taco’s. And if you are into healthy food, then don’t miss Civilization, where you can find vegan and vegetarian meals and support local farmers at the same time.
Gainesville Shopping
Begin your shopping at the Union Street Station found in downtown Gainesville or the Celebration Ponte, which is an outdoor mall where you can find major brands. If you like vintage clothing, then visit Urban Thread.
So don’t wait! Book your stay and enjoy the beautiful Gainesville. The food is great, the hotels are affordable and museums and festivals provide a memorable experience for you and your family.
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