University of Florida

What’s the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Florida? Maybe it’s the beautiful, sunny weather? How about all of the exotic wildlife? And who could forget all of the fun, kid-friendly attractions and sights to see? Whatever it is, you’re sure to find it during your visit to the University of Florida and the lively city of Gainesville where it’s located.

With a staggering student population of nearly 30,000, it’s no surprise that the University of Florida is one of the largest single-campus universities in the country. Spanning 2,000 acres in the heart of Gainesville, you could spend your entire trip trying to experience all the University of Florida’s campus has to offer. Points of interest like the Samuel P. Harn Museum of Art, the state’s only natural history museum, and one of the largest college football stadiums in the country will definitely tempt you to. The surrounding area has plenty of other unique attractions worth visiting too however! So, if you’ve got the time during your visit to the University of Florida, head off-campus and see what else Gainesville has in store.

Things to Do

Florida Museum of Natural History

You won’t have to venture far from the University of Florida to find a fun way to spend an hour or two during your trip. In fact, you won’t have to leave at all. As mentioned before, the university campus is home to the only natural history museum in all of Florida. The Florida Museum of Natural History, established in 1917, has been one of the university’s biggest draws for more than 100 years.

With more than 40 million specimens and cultural artifacts, there’s certainly no shortage of amazing things to see at this world-class museum. Popular exhibits include the Butterfly Rainforest, which features lush landscapes, cascading waterfalls, and of course, hundreds of live butterflies from all corners of the globe; and Florida Fossils: Evolution of Life and Land, where museumgoers are taken on an awe-inspiring, 65 million-year journey through time. 3215 Hull Rd, Gainesville, FL 32611

Depot Park

Located less than five miles from the University of Florida, the newly-constructed Depot Park provides downtown Gainesville with acre upon acre of family-friendly recreation opportunities. Some of the park’s most unique features include the Blue Grotto splash pad; a custom-built playground with swings, slides, ladders, and more; a waters-edge promenade that traces the perimeter of the park’s pond; and a conservation area where visitors can get acquainted with some of the wildlife native to the area.

If you’re lucky, you might even get to take part in one of the many special events held in the park while you’re there. These include food truck festivals, musical performances, and so much more. It’s all the fun of an amusement park without the price of admission! 200 SE Depot Ave, Gainesville, FL 32601

Sweetwater Wetlands Park

If Florida’s abundant natural beauty is what you’re most looking forward to experiencing while there, head to Sweetwater Wetlands Park. A nature-lover’s dream, this thriving, 125-acre stretch of wetlands and ponds is teeming with plant life as well as animals like birds, butterflies, alligators, and even wild horses! During your visit to Sweetwater Wetlands Park, you can trek along more than 3 and a half miles of trails and boardwalks, take in lush landscapes from atop viewing platforms, and look over interpretive signage to learn more about this fascinating Floridian habitat. 325 SW Williston Rd, Gainesville, FL 32601

Thomas Center

Avid history buffs definitely won’t want to miss stopping by the historic Thomas Center during their visit to the University of Florida. The center, located 20 minutes from the university campus, was once a Mediterranean Revival-style hotel from the 1920s that has been beautifully restored to its former glitzy glory.

Now listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Thomas Center serves as a cultural events hub for the community and surrounding areas of Gainesville. It hosts everything from contemporary art and historical exhibition to intimate musical performances, weddings, conferences, and other social events. Guest rooms furnished with authentic 1920s décor are accessible to the public as well, giving visitors the chance to experience what it would have been like staying at this elegant hotel in its heyday. 302 NE 6th Ave, Gainesville, FL 32601

Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo

The Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo is unlike any zoo you’ve been to before. Although it’s situated on only 10 forested acres, this incredible facility is home to over 200 amazing animals that represent more than 75 different species from all over the world. Some of the zoo’s most exotic residents include the endangered white-handed gibbon, Matschie’s tree-kangaroos, Asian small-clawed otters, and red ruffed lemurs.

Guided tours of the zoo are available but must be scheduled prior to your visit. These tours are led by students enrolled in the Santa Fe College Zoo Animal Technology Program, known as “Zooies,” whose enthusiasm and knowledge make each and every tour a truly special experience for guests. 3000 NW 83rd St, Gainesville, FL 32606

Kika Silva Pla Planetarium

Another attraction worth visiting while on the campus of Santa Fe College is the Kika Silva Pla Planetarium. Since opening in 2006, the Kika Silva Pla Planetarium has been dedicated to bringing the universe to the community with its cutting-edge equipment and inspired programming. The planetarium seats up to 60 stargazers and features not one, but two state-of-the-art projection systems for even more immersive interplanetary travels. In addition to space-related programming, the Kika Silva Pla Planetarium also hosts laser light shows set to the timeless music of bands like Led Zeppelin, U2, and The Beatles, along with plenty of other fun, all-ages entertainment. 3000 NW 83rd St, Gainesville, FL 32606

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Places to Eat

Adam’s Rib Co.

When University of Florida students are looking to sink their teeth into tender ribs and other succulent barbecue favorites, they’re likely headed to Adam’s Rib Co. In just 10 short years this humble joint has managed to cement itself as the community’s “Hometown BBQ Headquarters” thanks to their excellent service, fair prices, and dedication to delicious barbecue done right.

On the menu at Adam’s Rib Co. you’ll find staples like chopped pork, beef brisket, smoked chicken, and of course, meaty ribs served by the slab. Like any barbecue joint worth their salt, Adam’s Rib Co. also offers a slew of delicious sides such as collard greens, mac and cheese, and fried okra. For the early birds, Adam’s Rib Co. even cooks up hearty homemade breakfast fare like biscuits and gravy, omelets, pancakes, French toast, and more. Talk about a breakfast of champions! 2111 NW 13th St, Gainesville, FL 32609

Daily Green

If you’re in the mood for something a little lighter than smoked pork smothered in sweet barbecue sauce and served between two thick slices of garlic toast, Daily Green has got your fix. This charming café has been serving up some of area’s most healthful and innovative cuisine since they first opened their doors in July 2013.

Whether you’re a vegan, vegetarian, or just another omnivore, there’s something for everyone to enjoy on the menu at the Daily Green. Ever wanted to try a waffle made out of falafel? How about a savory waffle cone full of tarragon yogurt chicken salad? Well now you can! For more carnivorous diners, Daily Green also serves hearty sandwiches full of delicious meats like slow-roasted chopped pork and savory Cherrywood smoked bacon. 436 SE 2nd St, Gainesville, FL 32601

Harvest Thyme Cafe

Another great Gainesville restaurant catering to the local health-conscious crowd, Harvest Thyme Cafe uses the freshest ingredients possible to make their eclectic assortment of delicious dishes. Since they’ve been doing it since 1999, you know it’s got to be good.

Their breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner offerings are served all day, every day, so whatever it is that you’re in the mood for, they’ve got it. Popular dishes at Harvest Thyme Cafe include the Carolina Classic burger, which features their homemade black bean burger patty, melted Cheddar, vegetarian chili, Carolina coleslaw, red onions, and mustard; and delicious soups ranging from split pea to spicy coconut chicken curry. 4780 NW 39th Ave, Gainesville, FL 32606

MOJO Hogtown Bar-B-Que

If your meal at Adam’s Rib Co. has left you craving more smoked meats and down-home fixins, you’ll be glad to know that the University of Florida is just a 20-minute drive from MOJO Hogtown Bar-B-Que, another popular local barbecue joint.

Like Adam’s Rib Co., MOJO serves up a variety of barbecue favorites like pulled pork, beef brisket, and spareribs, along with some less common options like hot links, Kansas City burnt ends, and chicken wings that are smoked and flash-fried for an exterior far crispier than any wing you’ve ever had before. Also on the menu at MOJO are fun, shareable appetizers, towering sandwiches, soups, salads, sides, and so much more. 12 SE 2nd Ave, Gainesville, FL 32601

Get your sunscreen and walking shoes ready; there’s a lot of fun to be had in and around the University of Florida. Whether you’re a nature-lover looking to visit the sprawling wetlands of the Sunshine State, a foodie jonesing for some authentic Southern barbecue, or a Gators fan in town for the big game, you can count on this trip being one that you’ll remember for years to come.