What to do in Gainesville, FL

Activities, attractions and tours
Gainesville which includes interior views

Gainesville Attractions

Whether you like to shop up a storm or sample local cuisine, there are loads of fun things to do in Gainesville. This city has a range of thrilling attractions that'll keep your itinerary full and you on the move. No matter your interests, this place has something up its sleeve for you.

Explore the best sights in Gainesville with some popular tours & day trips, or check out our list of {8 fun activities in Gainesville fun activities in Gainesville}. We have no booking fees as well as free cancellation, so you can relax and put your energy into planning the perfect vacation.

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What to do in Gainesville

Free Things to Do in Gainesville

There's no need to max out your credit card in Gainesville. The following won't even cost a penny.

Matheson Historical Center - Round up the whole family and set off on an intriguing adventure through history with one another.

University of Florida Bat Houses - Find out for yourself why animal lovers enjoy spending time here.

Bivens Arm Nature Park - You'll love this attraction if your goal is to let go and join in on the fun.

University of Florida - Stop at this historic landmark and learn a bit about the cultural heritage of the area.

Shands at the University of Florida - Speak to a few locals and find out why many sightseers call in at this place.

Florida National Scenic Trail - You're bound to reconnect with Mother Nature at this stunning place.

Bivens Arm Nature Park - If you're into spending time in the garden, this place will fascinate your green thumb.

Things to Do in Gainesville with Kids

Gainesville is a fabulous destination for a family vacation. Bring the youngsters along and have a go at these family friendly experiences together:

 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Gainesville? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 

 

Frequently asked questions

What to do in Gainesville on a sunny day?
Soak up the good weather (and stretch your legs as well) with these outdoor experiences:


What to do in Gainesville on a rainy day?
If it’s pouring with rain during your trip, hang up your umbrella and try your hand at these terrific indoor activities:


What is Gainesville famous for?
University of Florida lives up to its reputation as an icon that you can’t miss.
What should I not miss in Gainesville?
To get a real taste of this destination’s vibe, try to stop by these must-do sights:

  • Kanapaha Botanical Gardens
  • Florida Museum of Natural History
  • Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park

Are there cheap things to do in Gainesville?
If you’re traveling on a strict budget, add the following cheap and cheerful experiences to your agenda:


What can you do in Gainesville for free?
Your escape to Gainesville doesn’t have to cost a fortune with free things like these to keep you entertained:

  • University of Florida
  • Florida Museum of Natural History
  • Shands at the University of Florida
  • Devil’s Den

Popular places to visit

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University of Florida

Take a campus tour or just explore the area around University of Florida, a top college in Gainesville. Stroll along the lakeside or attend a sporting event in the area.

University of Florida
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Ben Hill Griffin Stadium

Catch an event at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium during your trip to Gainesville. Wander the college campus and lakeside in the area.

Ben Hill Griffin Stadium
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Florida Museum of Natural History

You can spend an afternoon exploring the galleries in Florida Museum of Natural History during your trip to Gainesville. Amble around the area's college campus or attend a sporting event.

Florida Museum of Natural History
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Hippodrome State Theatre

You can enjoy a show at Hippodrome State Theatre during your stay in Gainesville. Amble around the area's college campus or attend a sporting event.

Hippodrome State Theatre
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Shands at the University of Florida

If Shands at the University of Florida is what brings you to town, hopefully you'll have a chance to explore more of Gainesville. Amble around the area's college campus or attend a sporting event.

Shands at the University of Florida
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Gainesville Raceway

Catch an event at Gainesville Raceway during your trip to Gainesville. Amble around the area's college campus or attend a sporting event.

Gainesville Raceway
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Sante Fe College

Explore the campus of Sante Fe College, during your trip to Gainesville. You can attend a sporting event while in the area.

Sante Fe College
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North Florida Regional Medical Center

If North Florida Regional Medical Center is what brings you to town, hopefully you'll have a chance to explore more of Gainesville. Amble around the area's college campus or attend a sporting event.

North Florida Regional Medical Center
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UF Health Shands Hospital

If UF Health Shands Hospital is what brings you to town, hopefully you'll have a chance to explore more of Gainesville. Attend a sporting event or simply enjoy the top-notch restaurants while you're in the area.

UF Health Shands Hospital

Explore areas of Gainesville

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University Heights

While University Heights isn't home to many top sights, Ben Hill Griffin Stadium and Hippodrome State Theatre are some notable places to visit nearby.

University Heights
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Springtree

Though Springtree might not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Devil's Milhopper Geological State Park and Ben Hill Griffin Stadium.

Springtree
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Haile Plantation

While Haile Plantation isn't home to many top sights, Kanapaha Botanical Gardens and Oaks Mall are some notable places to visit nearby.

Haile Plantation
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Duckpond

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Duckpond and surrounding area, you can visit Thomas Center and Hippodrome State Theatre.

Duckpond
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Sugarfoot

While Sugarfoot isn't home to many top sights, Regal Cinemas Royal Park Stadium 16 and Florida Museum of Natural History are some notable places to visit nearby.

Sugarfoot
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Pleasant Street

Though Pleasant Street might not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Thomas Center and Hippodrome State Theatre.

Pleasant Street
See our Where To Stay guide

Day trip destinations from Gainesville

Photo by Fernando Begay

Alachua

Micanopy

Micanopy

Photo by Bill Dillard

Waldo