Things to do in Gainesville

Activities, attractions and tours

A butterfly exhibit with various species displayed on shelves and informational posters.
The Florida Museum of Natural History at dusk.
A man in a green canoe on a calm river surrounded by trees.
An art gallery with wooden floors, a large sculpture, and a poster with the text "Who speaks? Who is silent?"
A crowded street lined with trees and buildings.
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What to do in Gainesville

Stay near popular Gainesville attractions

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University of Florida

9.4/10 (3,227 reviews)
Explore UF's historic campus with its iconic architecture and the legendary "Swamp" stadium. Join a guided tour to discover the academic excellence behind the Gators' spirited atmosphere.
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Where to stay in Gainesville

Find the best Gainesville areas for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Gainesville
Learn more about Gainesville
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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.

An alligator resting in a grassy field.

University Heights

University Heights might not have many top sights, but Ben Hill Griffin Stadium and Depot Park are two attractions nearby that you can check out.

A lakeside building surrounded by trees and a calm body of water.

Duckpond

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

College Park

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in College Park and surrounding area, you can visit Ben Hill Griffin Stadium and Stephen C. O'Connell Center.

An aerial view of a historic town with red-roofed buildings, a large stadium, and surrounding greenery.

Innovation District

While Innovation District may not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Ben Hill Griffin Stadium and Stephen C. O'Connell Center.

A misty swamp with clear water, surrounded by trees with Spanish moss.

Waldo

Frequently asked questions

Is Gainesville worth visiting?
Renowned for its golfing and walking trails, finding fun things to do in Gainesville is a cinch. Make sure to add Florida Museum of Natural History to your itinerary when here.
How do I spend a day in Gainesville?
Florida Museum of Natural History and University of Florida Bat Houses are two excellent places to start your adventures. Be sure to explore the shopping and dining options in Gainesville while you're in town too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Gainesville?
Florida Museum of Natural History is one of the top tourist attractions in Gainesville and should feature high on every to-do list of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Gainesville?
Three days in Gainesville is more than enough to visit the city's major attractions. Many guests stay for two days on average. Florida Museum of Natural History, University of Florida Bat Houses and Samuel P. Harn Museum of Art are among the most popular sights. Want to discover more? Stick around a while longer to visit nearby hotspots like Alachua.
Is Gainesville a walkable city?
That comes down to what you'd like to see and do in Gainesville. Several sights, like Florida Museum of Natural History and University of Florida Bat Houses, are reachable on foot. If you're up for a stroll around some of Gainesville's neighbourhoods, University Heights is 2 kilometres away from downtown, while Pleasant Street is 0.64 kilometres away from the centre and also within walking distance.
What are some activities to do in Gainesville with kids?
If you are after attractions and activities for all ages, have a look at these excellent ideas for what to do in Gainesville with kids.
What to do in Gainesville for adults?
Micanopy Cemetery is one of the top things to do in Gainesville. With lots of activities available, there's something here for everyone.
Are there free things to do in Gainesville?
One of the easiest ways to learn about free things to do in Gainesville is to speak with a local tour guide. You'll get insider views on vibrant neighbourhoods, parks and other top attractions you can visit without reaching into your pocket. Florida Museum of Natural History is one spot that doesn't have an admission fee.

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