Top 10 Things to Do Today in Gainesville, Florida
Welcome to Gainesville, Florida! Gainesville is most well known for being home to the University of Florida and a number of prominent musicians, including Tom Petty! There is so much to do in the city; learn more about our favorite places to visit and restaurants in Gainesville, FL!
5 BEST PLACES TO GO IN GAINESVILLE, FL
1. THE SWAMP
If you're in Gainesville in the Fall, visit The Swamp! Whether you root for the Florida Gators or not, The Swamp is an iconic field in college football that creates a great atmosphere that is unrivaled in college football. The stadium was constructed in 1930 and can hold over 88,000 attendees. The Swamp is the largest stadium in Florida, and coming to a football game here makes for an absolutely electric atmosphere and day in Gainesville. Be sure to check out the website for stadium policies and what to expect.
Did you know Gainesville is home to Florida's first state preserve? There is a reason why Paynes Prarie is so beloved, with nearly 300 species of birds and wild-roaming horses and bison. If you're trying to get that perfect Instagram picture, check out the 50-foot-high observation tower that provides stunning panoramic views of the area. This is a great place for hiking in Gainesville, with short and long-distance hikes available. Be sure to watch for specific trail rules, as some trails do not allow pets.
If you're looking for a beautiful day out in nature near Gainesville, check out Ichetucknee Springs State Park. While this is about 40 minutes from The Earl Apartments, it is worth the trip! Travel down these pristine blue waters by tub, canoe, or kayak. This park is home to beavers and otters, so you never know what might be swimming alongside you! Learn more about how to responsibly enjoy the state park when you come by visiting the State Park's website!
Just 13 minutes from the Earl Apartments, you can step into a miniature rainforest! The Devil's Miller Hopper Geological State Park has been enchanting visitors since the 1880s, and the 120-foot-deep sinkhole protects lush vegetation and even a variety of fossils including shark teeth and extinct land animals. The Devil's Millhopper is great for a short hike, picnicking, and seeing some incredible wildlife.
If you're looking to spend an evening in the charming Gainesville downtown, check out the events at Bo Diddly Plaza! From community movie nights to concerts, this is a great space in the downtown area that hosts lots of great events as well as having a picnic and park area. The central location near downtown Gainesville is also convenient for walking to one of the amazing restaurants in Gainesville!
5 BEST PLACES TO EAT IN GAINESVILLE, FL
TUP TIM THAI
Whether Thai food is your comfort food or you just want to try something new, Tup Tim Thai has some of the best Thai food in Gainesville! From Panang Curry to Pad Thai and Drunken Noodles, Tup Tim has all your favorite dishes. Tup Tim also has sushi, Poke Bowls, and some Chinese dishes available as well, so you have so much to choose from when you visit!
RELISH
Trying to find the best burger in Gainesville? Try Relish and look no further, with big tasty burgers that are made with fresh 100% certified Angus Beef. Have your burger your way, with extras, toppings, and sauces that allow you to craft your perfect burger. When you visit, we would also recommend poutine fries, which are known as a Canadian staple that is made with cheese curds and mouthwatering brown gravy. At Relish, they welcome creativity and can't wait to see what fantastic burger options you come up with!
TASTE
Looking for something you've never tried before? Visit Taste, with delicious sushi and other Asian dishes that will delight your taste buds. This family-owned restaurant has a variety of dishes, from flavorful fried rice and noodles to pho. If you can't decide what to eat, Taste is the perfect place to go with a little bit of everything available.
SATCHEL'S PIZZA
Are you trying to find your go-to pizza shop in Gainesville, FL? Check out Satchel's Pizza, which will soon become your favorite local pizza shop. Did you know there was a place in Gainesville where you could eat pizza under a plane or in the inviting glow of a stained glass window? Rethink what you think is possible here at Satchel's Pizza. There is even a playground available here for kids. There is a reason Satchel's has been around for over 20 years: because this is the best Pizza that will make you want to eat out instead of take out.
THE FLYING BISCUIT CAFE
Just 9 minutes away from The Earl Apartments is one of the best breakfasts in Gainesville! From the stuffed French toast breakfast to the chicken and waffles and the Hangover Hash, this place will dazzle your tastebuds with every bite! The Flying Biscuit Café has all your southern staples like fluffy biscuits, cheesy grits, and collard greens.