Things to do in Gainesville

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Gainesville Travel Guide

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 {1 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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Recommended things to do in Gainesville

Number of things to do	1
Cheapest thing to do on Expedia	Night Gator Eyes A Unique Florida Ecotour: $39
Top 5 things to do	Night Gator Eyes A Unique Florida Ecotour
Under $25
With kids	Night Gator Eyes A Unique Florida Ecotour

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!

Discover the most popular places to visit in Gainesville

University of Florida

4.5/5(833 reviews)

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.

At the Gators home opener with 90,000 of my closest friends. A football game at Florida Field is an incredible experience. Energy not to be missed. This is probably one of the greatest stadiums in college football.

Ben Hill Griffin Stadium

4.5/5(272 reviews)

Catch an event at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium during your trip to Gainesville. Stroll along the lakeside or attend a sporting event in the area.

Florida Museum of Natural History

4.5/5(171 reviews)

You can spend an afternoon exploring the galleries in Florida Museum of Natural History during your trip to Gainesville. You can attend a sporting event while in the area.

Hippodrome State Theatre

3/5(1 review)

You can enjoy a show at Hippodrome State Theatre during your stay in Gainesville. You can attend a sporting event while in the area.

Shands at the University of Florida

4.5/5(210 reviews)

Though Shands at the University of Florida might be what brings you to town, perhaps you'll have a chance to explore more of Gainesville while you are here.

Gainesville Raceway

4.5/5(104 reviews)

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

Sante Fe College

4.5/5(76 reviews)

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

Oaks Mall

4/5(307 reviews)

You can browse for the perfect souvenirs at Oaks Mall during your stay in Gainesville. You can attend a sporting event while in the area.

North Florida Regional Medical Center

4.5/5(74 reviews)

Though North Florida Regional Medical Center might be what brings you to town, perhaps you'll have a chance to explore more of Gainesville while you are here.

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Gainesville

University Heights

4/5(31 area reviews)

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

Haile Plantation

If you're spending some time in Haile Plantation, Haile Village Center and Haile Plantation Golf and Country Club are top sights worth seeing.

Gainesville which includes modern architecture

Downtown Gainesville

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

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.

College Park

While College Park isn't home to many top sights, Ben Hill Griffin Stadium and Stephen C. O'Connell Center are some notable places to visit nearby.

Innovation District

While there might not be top attractions in Innovation District, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Hippodrome State Theatre and Ben Hill Griffin Stadium.

See our Where To Stay guide

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

Popular day trips from Gainesville

Alachua

Micanopy

Waldo

Frequently asked questions

Is Gainesville worth visiting?

One of the most common things to do in Gainesville is visit Florida Museum of Natural History. Tick this top attraction off your agenda, then experience more of this area's golfing and walking trails.

How do I spend a day in Gainesville?

Kick your day off with a visit to Florida Museum of Natural History and University of Florida Bat Houses. Then, check out other areas of Gainesville for a bite to eat and some retail therapy.

What is the top tourist attraction in Gainesville?

Florida Museum of Natural History is one of the top tourist attractions in Gainesville and deserves a place on every must-do list of the area.

Is three days enough to stay in Gainesville?

Three days will give you enough time to check out the leading city highlights, such as Florida Museum of Natural History, University of Florida Bat Houses and Curtis M. Phillips Center. The average stay in Gainesville is two days. If you have the urge to extend your getaway, Alachua isn't far away.

Is Gainesville a walkable city?

With vibrant neighborhoods and leading attractions within walking distance of the city center, Gainesville is a great destination to explore on foot. Have fun wandering between Florida Museum of Natural History and University of Florida Bat Houses. Then take a stroll around University Heights, located 1 mile from the center, and Pleasant Street, which is roughly 0.4 miles away.

What are some activities to do in Gainesville with kids?

Whether you're vacationing with tiny adventurers or hard-to-please teens, an itinerary filled with fun activities makes a big difference. Browse our ideas for what to do in Gainesville with kids.

Night Gator Eyes A Unique Florida Ecotour

What to do in Gainesville for adults?

Whether you're a culture enthusiast, food connoisseur or fan of nature, there's lots of things to do in Gainesville for adults including Micanopy Cemetery.

Are there free things to do in Gainesville?

One of the top ways to discover free things to do in Gainesville is to ask a local tour guide. You'll get insider advice on interesting neighborhoods, parks and other hotspots you can enjoy without getting your cash out. Florida Museum of Natural History is one sight that doesn't have an entrance fee.

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