Gainesville, Florida – 10 Things To Do and 5 to Avoid

Gainesville, Florida is a vibrant city with plenty of activities for both locals and visitors. With its many parks, museums, restaurants, and other attractions, there is something for everyone. Whether you are looking for a relaxing day at the beach or an adrenaline-filled adventure, Gainesville has it all. Here are 10 things to do in Gainesville and 5 to avoid.

1. Visit the Florida Museum of Natural History

The Florida Museum of Natural History is located on the University of Florida’s campus and houses a variety of exhibits, including a butterfly rainforest and a fossilized mammoth. The museum also offers educational programs and special events throughout the year.

2. Attend a Gator Football Game

Gator football is one of the most popular sports in Gainesville and the University of Florida’s team is one of the best in the country. Attending a game is a must for any fan of college football.

3. Explore Kanapaha Botanical Gardens

Kanapaha Botanical Gardens is a beautiful park that features over 20 themed gardens, including a butterfly garden, a rose garden, and a tropical plant garden. Visitors can explore the gardens and take part in educational programs and events.

4. Spend a Day at Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park

Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park is a must-visit destination in Gainesville. The park is home to wild horses, bison, and other wildlife and is a great place to go hiking, biking, or horseback riding.

5. Take a Tour of the Historic Haile Plantation

The Historic Haile Plantation is a former cotton plantation located in Gainesville. Today, the plantation is a historic site and visitors can take guided tours of the grounds and learn about the history of the area.

6. Spend an Evening at the Hippodrome State Theatre

The Hippodrome State Theatre is the oldest continuously operating theater in Florida and hosts performances by local and national theater groups. The theater also hosts film screenings, concerts, and other special events.

7. Go Shopping at the Oaks Mall

The Oaks Mall is a large shopping center located in Gainesville and features a variety of stores, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Visitors can spend the day browsing the stores and enjoying the restaurants.

8. Enjoy Nature at Morningside Nature Center

Morningside Nature Center is a great place to go for nature lovers. The center offers educational programs and events and visitors can explore the trails, ponds, and gardens.

9. Have Fun at the Boulware Springs Water Park

The Boulware Springs Water Park is a great place to go for families looking to cool off in the summer. The park features a variety of water slides and pools, as well as a lazy river and a wave pool.

10. Enjoy a Night Out at Downtown Gainesville

Downtown Gainesville is a great place to go for a night out. The area is filled with bars, restaurants, and entertainment venues, making it the perfect spot for a night on the town.

5 Things to Avoid in Gainesville

1. Going Out Late at Night

While there are plenty of great places to go out in downtown Gainesville, it is best to avoid going out late at night. The area can be dangerous after dark, so it is best to stay in well-lit and populated areas.

2. Swimming in Unsupervised Areas

Gainesville is surrounded by beautiful lakes and rivers, but it is important to avoid swimming in unsupervised areas. There are many hidden dangers in the water, including strong currents and submerged objects, so it is best to stick to supervised swimming areas.

3. Driving in Heavy Traffic

Gainesville is a popular city and can become very congested during peak times. It is best to avoid driving during rush hour or other busy times, as traffic can become backed up and slow.

4. Walking Alone in Unfamiliar Areas

Gainesville is generally a safe city, but it is still important to be aware of your surroundings. Avoid walking alone in unfamiliar areas, especially at night, and always be aware of your surroundings.

5. Not Checking the Weather Before Going Out

Gainesville can experience sudden changes in weather, so it is important to check the forecast before heading out. This can help you plan your activities and make sure you’re prepared for whatever Mother Nature throws your way.