Although Gainesville is known primarily as a college town, the surrounding swamplands, Florida Museum of Natural History, and exotic botanical sites make it a popular destination for Florida tourists. Gainesville accommodations include budget hotels, charming bed and breakfasts, cabin resorts, and even a health retreat resort. When booking hotels in Gainesville during the football season, guests should plan far in advance in order to secure rooms before hotels fill up.

Gainesville Quick Picks and Tips

Outdoor Recreation

Visitors looking for an outdoor adventure can depart their Gainesville hotels and descend the wooden stairs at Devil's Millhopper Geological State Park for a hiking tour that includes a sinkhole, streams, and small waterfalls.

Dining

Gainesville has a robust culture of culinary diversity. Visitors at Gainesville hotels can sample sushi at Dragonfly, try creative new pizza flavors at Leonardo's 706, or head to The Yearling for traditional fare.

Major Point of Interest

Those staying at a downtown Gainesville hotel will undoubtedly remark on the architectural gem called the Hippodrome State Theater. The historic building houses an art gallery, bar, and cinema, and presents award-winning thespians on its main stage.

Shopping

Guests at hotels in Gainesville have numerous shopping options. For extensive retail shopping, Gainesville hotel patrons can visit Butler Plaza or Oaks Mall, while Micanopy offers diverse boutiques, and antique stores.

Sports

Football fans must be sure to schedule time to watch the nationally acclaimed and locally beloved Florida Gators play at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. Fishing tournaments are also popular locally.