The University of Florida hosts over 50,000 students. With this diverse campus, students are bound to have family and friends visiting from all over. Wanting to show off the area temporarily called home, we are constantly thinking of scenic places that best represent the area and our lives here. Therefore, the following are all-encompassing of Gainesville and make for the most enjoyable experience for friends and family.
1. Your College
I have a sense of pride saying that I am a part of J-school - UF College of Journalism and Communications. It means something to be able to show my parents or friends a place that holds a special spot in my heart. It all seems very adult.
2. The Swamp
I often forget that I attend the ninth-ranked public university. The Gators are known out-of-state for not only our academics but our football team. It is only right to visit the setting of various game days to feel the college spirit. 10/10 recommend making the climb to the top bleachers to overlook Century Tower and the heart of campus.
3. The UF Bookstore
I try to avoid the bookstore at all costs because it hurts my bank account. However, it is a must for visitors to own at least one piece of Gator gear. Parents are proud to don their kid's school apparel, even if it means orange and blue for days.
4. Sweetwater Branch Inn
Recently discovered this little gem thanks to my sisterhood brunch. Imagine Gainesville's very own Stars Hollow. The Victorian-style bed & breakfast offers 20 guest rooms and makes a beautiful venue for special occasions. You can tour the property and take pictures around the garden.
5. Lake Wauburg
Students and guests gain free entry with a flash of a GatorOne ID card. With this, guests can also rent out kayaks or relax dockside.
6. Haile Plantation
This hidden beauty includes a picturesque area to walk around with a coffee in hand thanks to the on-site Patticakes. It is similar to Sweetwater Branch Inn with its quaint charm.
7. Satchel's
This quirky pizzeria is the perfect go-to for dinner. Due to its popularity among locals, guests are likely to have a wait but can do so within its very own gift shop.
Enjoy your meal in a hippie van or inside the colorful restaurant. If anything could upstage the scenery, it is the food. Try their homemade soda and feast on mouthwatering calzones as you listen to live music.
8. Downtown
Unbeknownst to college students, there is more to this area of Gainesville than its nightlife. At every step, there is something to enjoy. Find yourself on the steps of the Hippodrome while fittingly eating popsicles from the Hyppo. Though there is a multitude of popular restaurants like Dragonfly and OAK, I recommend trying out the less known The Gelato Company and Boca Fiesta.
9. Mr. Cool
This new staple of Gainesville introduces a new way to enjoy ice cream. Choose your own ingredients or pick from the already perfected selections. While you wait, you can watch them make your ice cream right in front of you.
10. Paynes Prairie Observatory Deck
People frequent Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park. But if you are into a short trip of nature, visit the Observation Deck and watch the sunrise over the water.
