Tom Petty's Gainesville Roots: A Tribute to a Rock Legend

Amidst the fame and fortune, Petty never forgot his humble beginnings. People often ask, “Where was Tom Petty raised?” Right here in Gainesville, FL, the city that we at the Earl Apartments call home. Indeed, we are so proud to share a hometown with the Gainesville legend that our floorplans are named after guitars that Tom Petty played throughout his career— “The Rickenbacker,” “The Vox,” “The Stratocaster,” and more! 

We consistently field questions from prospective residents like, “Where did Tom Petty perform?” and “Where did Tom Petty live?” and “Did Tom Petty go to the University of Florida?” We decided to answer those questions and provide residents and prospective residents with a list of the most famous Tom Petty landmarks scattered throughout Gainesville. 

Tom Petty Weekend 

 Since his passing in 2017, Tom Petty fans from across the world have gathered in Gainesville to celebrate his birthday on October 20th. What better way to honor the man than by singing his songs on home turf? 

The festival was built for TP super fans but caters to fans of all levels and ages. They have top-tier-live music, incredible food, and an abundance of Tom Petty merchandise, the likes of which you won’t be able to find anywhere else. Tickets range from $125 to $350 for 3-day passes, but you can buy individual day passes for $25. Of course, the weekend is jam-packed with live performances from artists who have all been deeply inspired by the life and music of Tom Petty. If you’ve been dying to belt “Free Fallin’” alongside 1,000’s of other Tom Petty diehards, then this is the event for you. Keep an eye on the event's website for announcements and more details. 

Tom Petty’s Childhood Home and “Tom Petty Park” 

Tom and his brother Bruce were raised by Kitty & Earl Petty at 1715 NE Sixth Terrace in Gainesville. Today, the home is owned by Tom’s ex-wife Jane Benyo Petty who purchased it right after Tom’s death in 2017 because she wanted it to stay in the family. 

It’s no museum, and there’s no public access, but fans can drive by and take a peek. It’s a simple, one-story home and there’s no sign to let you know that you are indeed looking at the home of a famous rock star. All’s to say, it’s not the most exciting TP landmark, but it will give you a sense of his humble origins. 

What is more exciting is visiting “Tom Petty Park,” just a short walk from his childhood home. Formerly known as “Northeast Park,” this forested 22-acre sanctuary was very special to Tom and his brother while they were kids. The park was renamed Tom Petty Park by Gainesville’s government in 2018 and was made official with the raising of a big red, metal plaque with an image of Tom holding his famous Rickenbacker electric guitar. The park has a lot to offer visitors including a playground, a dog park, and beautiful tree-lined walking paths. 

Tom Petty “Wildflowers” Exhibit at the Cade Museum 

The Cade Museum decided to honor Petty and the hit song with an exhibition called “Among the Wildflowers.” It ran initially from July 2023 to January 2024, but because of the high demand, the exhibit is getting a second run starting in June of 2024. Visitors will be able to see rare memorabilia flown in from the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland as well as hear Tom Petty speak about the inspiration behind the album in his own words. 

Keep your eye on the museum's website for up-to-date information. 

Tom Petty Murals 

1. On the side of Heartwood Soundstage, a famous concert hall and studio, is a fantastic “Alice In Wonderland” style mural of Mr. Petty painted by artist Adam Spear. It’s a nod to the “Don’t Come Around Here No More” music video where he dressed as the Mad Hatter. 

2. Just down the road at 1701 S Main St you’ll find another beautiful Tom Petty mural painted by Blake Harrison. This one quotes the lyric, “…and the world got still,” from his 1991 hit “Learning To Fly.” 

3. Tom Petty’s old elementary school, Sidney Lanier Center, honored him with a “Wildflower’s inspired mural.  

4. And finally, the 34th St murals. Alongside this busy road you’ll find a long line of wall art that keeps drivers more than entertained. That’s where you’ll find the last Tom Petty Mural that names him as “Gainesville’s No. 1 Son.” 

Living In Gainesville, FL

While you’re at it, please visit us the Earl Apartments. We would love to help you find your next home inside one of our Tom Petty inspired floorplans. We are an amenities-rich apartment community that will provide you with a deep sense of belonging, just like you’re living “amongst the wildflowers.”