Best Things to do in Gainesville | Must-see attractions 2025

Matheson Historical Center

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

513 E University Ave

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Matheson Historical Center in Gainesville, FL, showcases Florida's history through exhibitions and the 1867 Matheson House, emphasizing local culture and heritage.

Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Kate's Fish Camp

7:00 AM–10:00 PM

Camping

6518 SE Hawthorne Rd

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Kate's Fish Camp offers a unique camping experience in Gainesville, featuring fishing, hiking, and communal facilities amidst natural surroundings.

Duration: 2–4 hours.

Day pass: $10 adult, $5 child; yearly membership available at a discount.

Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park

8:00 AM–7:00 PM

Park

100 Savannah Blvd

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Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park is a 21,000-acre nature area in Gainesville, showcasing diverse wildlife, trails, and an observation tower overlooking the landscape.

Duration: More than 4 hours.

Free. Campsites cost $18 and include water and electricity.

Florida Museum of Natural History-Exhibits

Mo-Sa 10:00-17:00, Su 12:00-17:00

Museum

3215 Hull Rd

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Florida Museum of Natural History in Gainesville showcases Florida's ecosystems, cultural history, and features the expansive Butterfly Rainforest. Ideal for families and history enthusiasts.

Duration: More than 2 hours.

Free for most exhibits. Butterfly Rainforest: Adult $13, Child $6.

Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo

9:00 AM–2:00 PM

Zoo

3000 Northwest 83rd Street

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Santa Fe Community College Teaching Zoo in Gainesville houses 70 species and 250 animals, offering educational programs and hands-on experience for zoo students.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are appreciated for upkeep and programs.

Kanapaha Botanical Gardens

10:00 AM–5:30 PM

Garden

4700 SW 58th Dr

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Kanaphaha Botanical Gardens in Gainesville, Florida, features a diverse collection of unusual plants from around the world on a 62-acre site, open to all nature enthusiasts.

Duration: More than 2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Alfred A Ring Park

Open 24 hours

Park

1801 NW 23rd Blvd

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Alfred Ring Park in Gainesville, Florida, features a hiking trail through densely forested areas, wildflower gardens, and play zones, ensuring a natural escape from urban life.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. No entry fees for the park.

Harn Museum of Art

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

SW 34th St & Hull Rd

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Harn Museum of Art in Gainesville features global art collections and is one of the largest university-affiliated museums in the U.S.

Duration: More than 2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Hippodrome State Theatre

12:00 PM–8:00 PM

Theater

25 SE 2nd Pl

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Hippodrome Theatre in Gainesville, Florida, features a rich history along with a unique architectural design, offering diverse cultural performances in a vibrant setting.

Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours.

Ticket prices vary by performance; generally range from $20-$50.

University of Florida

8:00 AM–10:00 PM

University

W University AVE and Museum Rd.

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The University of Florida in Gainesville is the state's flagship institution and the second largest campus in the U.S., known for its vibrant student life.

Duration: More than 2 hours.

Free. Access to some special events may require a paid ticket.

Samuel P Harn Museum of Art

Tu-Fr 11:00-17:00, Sa 10:00-17:00, Su 13:00-17:00

Museum

SW 34th St and Hull RD

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The Samuel P Harn Museum of Art in Gainesville features diverse artwork from ancient Native American sculptures to contemporary paintings on the University of Florida campus.

Duration: More than 2 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Kanapaha Park

6:30 AM–8:00 PM

Park

Tower Road SW 41st Place

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Kanapaha Park features extensive trails, diverse wildlife, and botanical gardens in Gainesville, Florida. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and families.

Duration: 1-3 hours.

Free. Events may have specific charges.

Palm Point Nature Park

8:00 AM–7:00 PM

Park

7401 Lake Shore Dr

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Palm Point Nature Park offers scenic trails, diverse wildlife, and serene waters in Gainesville, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free.

Sweetwater Wetlands Park

8:00 AM–7:00 PM

Park

325 SE Williston Rd

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Sweetwater Wetlands Park in Gainesville, Florida, is a nature preserve with walking trails, wildlife observation decks, and ranger-led tours.

Duration: 2–3 hours.

Free. No cost for entry or activities.

Depot Park

7:00 AM–9:00 PM

Park

200 SE Depot Ave

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Depot Park in Gainesville, Florida, is a large city park offering a playground, splash pad, and event space, all free of charge, ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free. Some events may have charges for food or activities.

Cade Museum for Creativity and Invention

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

811 S Main St

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Cade Museum for Creativity and Invention in Gainesville, Florida, showcases interactive exhibits in science and technology, founded by Gatorade inventor, Dr. Richard Cade.

Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours.

General admission: $10 (Adults), $7 (Children ages 3-17), Free for children under 3. Special events may require additional fees.

Ripple Effect Studio & Gallery

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

112 NE Hunter Ave

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Ripple Effect Studio & Gallery in Gainesville showcases artist Jeff Ripple's work, featuring oil paintings, large format photography, and a native flora garden.

Duration: Approximately 1 to 2 hours.

Free. No charge for general admission.

Dudley Farm Historic State Park

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

18730 West Newberry Road

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Dudley Farm Historic State Park in Gainesville, USA, features a pioneer farm with 18 restored buildings including a farmhouse, general store, and authentic working farm.

Duration: More than 2 hours.

Free.

A Nan Buddhist Statue Park

9:00 AM–6:00 PM

Park

2120 SE 15th St Enter from SE 22nd Ave

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A Nan Buddhist Statue Park in Gainesville, United States features an array of intricate Buddhist statues set in serene gardens, ideal for contemplation and exploration.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Special events may have associated fees.

Loblolly Woods Nature Park

Dawn to Dusk

Park

3315 NW 5th Ave

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Loblolly Woods Nature Park in Gainesville offers 95 acres of wetlands, hiking trails, and wildlife, providing a natural escape near the city.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. No entry fee required.

Meadowbrook Golf Club

7:00 AM–7:00 PM

Golf Course

10530 NW 28th Pl

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Meadowbrook Golf Club in Gainesville, USA, offers a picturesque 18-hole golf course surrounded by lush greenery, ideal for golfers of all skill levels.

Duration: Approximately 4 hours.

Membership-based. Daily rates available for visitors and guests.

Albert "Ray" Massey Playground

8:00 AM–8:00 PM

Park

1001 NW 34th St

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Albert "Ray" Massey Playground in Gainesville offers modern play equipment, picnic areas, and green spaces, making it ideal for families and community gatherings.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free. No entry fee required.

Ironwood Golf Course

7:00 AM–6:00 PM

Golf Course

2140 NE 39th Ave

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Ironwood Golf Course in Gainesville offers a 18-hole championship layout, scenic views, and a welcoming atmosphere for golf enthusiasts of all levels.

Duration: Approximately 4 hours.

Paid. Rates vary by time of day and season, discounts available for local residents.

Cofrin Nature Park

Sunrise–Sunset

Amusement Park

4810 NW 8th Ave

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Cofrin Nature Park in Gainesville features diverse woods and wetlands, offering a scenic half-mile hiking trail beside Beville Heights Creek.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free.

Split Rock Conservation Area

6:00 AM–8:00 PM

Nature reserve

SW 20th Ave

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Split Rock Conservation Area in Gainesville offers vast natural landscapes, historical significance, and various recreational opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts.

Duration: Approximately 2 to 3 hours.

Free. No entry fee required.

Boulware Springs Park

8:00 AM–7:00 PM

Park

3300 SE 15th St

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Boulware Springs Park features picnic facilities, a historic 19th-century waterworks building, and a natural spring in Gainesville, Florida.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free.

Constans Theatre

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Theater

Gainesville

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Constans Theatre in Gainesville, Florida, is a performing arts venue at the University of Florida, hosting diverse performances and events year-round.

Duration: 2-3 hours, depending on the performance.

Varies by performance. Students and seniors receive discounts.

University of Florida College of Public Health and Health Professions

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

College

Gainesville

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The University of Florida College of Public Health and Health Professions offers diverse programs in health education, public health, and rehabilitation. It's the hub of health research in Gainesville.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special events may require a paid ticket.

Unity Church of Gainesville

10:00 AM–12:00 PM

Church

1624 NW 5th Ave

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Unity Church of Gainesville offers a spiritual community with regular services, meditation sessions, and various outreach programs fostering personal growth and connection.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are welcome for special events and services.

Bartley Temple United Methodist Church

10:00 AM–2:00 PM

Church

Gainesville

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Bartley Temple United Methodist Church in Gainesville offers a rich history, a welcoming community, and unique architectural elements in a serene setting.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Donations are welcome for special events.

Campus Church of Christ

6:00 PM–9:00 PM

Church

2720 SW 2nd Ave

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Campus Church of Christ, located in Gainesville, serves as a welcoming environment for spiritual growth with a focus on community involvement and outreach programs.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are welcome to support community programs.

Westwood Hills Church of God

6:00 PM–8:00 PM

Church

1520 NW 34th Street (at 16th Ave)

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Westwood Hills Church of God in Gainesville inspires community worship and offers various programs and outreach activities for families and individuals.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations accepted for community programs.

Seventh Day Adventist Church Gainesville

6:30 PM–8:00 PM

Church

2115 NW 39th Ave

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Seventh Day Adventist Church Gainesville offers a welcoming community and spiritual services in Gainesville, United States, emphasizing health and education.

Duration: Around 1-2 hours.

Free. Some events or community classes may have costs associated.

Jesus People Life Changing Church

5:00 PM–8:00 PM

Church

800 NW 39th Ave

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Jesus People Life Changing Church in Gainesville, United States, offers community-focused worship and support services with an emphasis on spiritual growth and outreach.

Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours.

Free. Donations appreciated for community programs.

Second Morning Star Missionary Baptist Church

5:00 PM–7:00 PM

Church

3205 NW 51st

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Second Morning Star Missionary Baptist Church, established in Gainesville, is a historic religious site known for its vibrant community and significant cultural heritage.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations encouraged for maintenance and community programs.

Mount Olive AME Church

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

Gainesville

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Mount Olive AME Church in Gainesville, United States, is an important center for African American spirituality and community engagement, established in the mid-1800s.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Special events may require a paid ticket.

New Creation Fellowship Church

6:00 PM–8:00 PM

Church

2500 NE 15th St

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New Creation Fellowship Church in Gainesville, United States, provides a community-focused environment for worship and spiritual growth, emphasizing inclusivity and outreach.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Special events may have a nominal fee.

Highland Missionary Baptist Church

6:00 PM–8:00 PM

Church

2620 NE 15th St

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Highland Missionary Baptist Church in Gainesville offers a rich historical and cultural experience, featuring distinctive architecture and community activities.

Duration: Around 1-2 hours for events and services.

Free. Donations are accepted for community programs and initiatives.

Shower of Blessings Harvest Center

10:00 AM–2:00 PM

Church

SE 15th St 2615

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Shower of Blessings Harvest Center in Gainesville offers spiritual and community activities, founded in 2004 by Pastor John Doe. A hub for local outreach and worship services.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are welcomed for community programs.

Passage Family Church

9:00 AM–12:00 PM

Church

2020 NE 15th St

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Passage Family Church, located in Gainesville, Florida, is a community-focused spiritual center emphasizing family values and inclusivity through various services and activities.

Duration: About 1 to 2 hours.

Free. All services and events are complimentary.

Gainesville Church of God

5:00 PM–7:00 PM

Church

7003 NW 39th Ave

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Gainesville Church of God, established in 1941, is a vibrant community church in Gainesville, USA, known for its warm environment and active congregation.

Duration: About 1 hour.

Free. Donations are welcomed for special programs.

Korean Baptist Church of Gainesville

6:30 PM–9:00 PM

Church

5200 SW 63rd Blvd

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Korean Baptist Church of Gainesville offers a beacon for the Korean community in Gainesville, providing spiritual guidance, cultural activities, and community service.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations encouraged for special events.

Episcopal Chapel of the Incarnation

5:00 PM–7:00 PM

Church

1522 W University Ave (NW 15th Terr)

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Episcopal Chapel of the Incarnation in Gainesville, USA, offers a serene space for worship and community gatherings, featuring unique architecture and rich history.

Duration: 1 hour.

Free. Donations accepted for special programs.

First Lutheran Church of Gainesville

9:00 AM–12:00 PM

Church

1801 NW 5th Ave

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First Lutheran Church of Gainesville, founded in 1900, features beautiful architecture and serves a vibrant community space for worship and events.

Duration: About 1 hour.

Free. Donations are appreciated for maintenance and community programs.

Gainesville Chinese Christian Church

5:00 PM–7:00 PM

Church

Gainesville

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Gainesville Chinese Christian Church serves the local Chinese community with services, events, and cultural outreach in Gainesville, United States.

Duration: Approximately 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Donations are welcomed during services and events.

Jesus Christ of Nazareth Worship and Praise Temple

6:00 PM–8:00 PM

Church

436 NW 2nd St

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Jesus Christ of Nazareth Worship and Praise Temple in Gainesville offers spiritual services and community outreach, featuring a welcoming atmosphere for worshippers and visitors.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Donations are accepted but not required.

Shady Grove Primitive Baptist Church

9:00 AM–12:00 PM

Church

Gainesville

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Shady Grove Primitive Baptist Church, located in Gainesville, Florida, is a historic church known for its architectural simplicity and cultural significance.

Duration: 1 hour.

Free. Donations may be accepted but not required for visits.

North Gainesville Baptist Church

9:00 AM–1:00 PM

Church

6203 NW 39th Ave

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North Gainesville Baptist Church offers a welcoming community with regular services, community events, and a history of service in Gainesville, Florida.

Duration: 1-2 hours for services.

Free for regular services; some special events may require tickets.

Landmark Holy Temple of God

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

1220 NE 23rd Ave

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Landmark Holy Temple of God in Gainesville is a place of spiritual significance featuring unique architecture and vibrant community events.

Duration: About 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are accepted for maintenance and community programs.

WARPHaus

10:00 AM–8:00 PM

Gallery

534 SW 4th Ave

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WARPHaus in Gainesville offers an innovative space for art, technology, and community engagement with dynamic events and immersive installations.

Duration: 1-2 hours is recommended to explore installations and attend events.

Free. Special workshops and performances may require a reservation or small fee.