If you were like me during freshman year, you probably didn’t know what to do for fun in Gainesville. I had only heard about Midtown and its small selection of barely average clubs and bars. My opinion of Gainesville was that it was boring, redneck, and there was nothing cool to do/places to go.

Starting my sophomore year, however, I decided to step out of my comfort zone and start exploring Gainesville for all it has to offer. If you’re past your second year, you’re probably familiar with all of these places, but if not, it’s always great to hear about new spots to check out. I’m so glad I’ve found these places, and I’m very excited to keep exploring Gainesville and all of its hidden gems. Without further ado, here are some rad local Gainesville scenes that you should check out:

1. Satchel's Pizza

If you’re looking for a great pizza joint, Satchel’s Pizza is where it’s at. I had always heard the name thrown around but I never went for real until recently. Not only is the pizza AH-MAZING, the best part of Satchel’s is its vibe and décor. There’s art plastered on the walls, art-deco style sculptures in the parking lot, and even a green-house out back that you can dine in. Satchel’s also has an old fashioned van right outside that guests can dine in as well.

2. Flashback's

If you’re looking for affordable, vintage, unique clothes, accessories, and more, then look no further than Flashback’s. Located on University Ave. near the McDonald’s, Flashback's is a hub for thrifty shoppers, and there’s no limit on the weird/interesting things you’ll find there.

3. The Bull

Because I’m not yet 21, I haven’t been able to explore most of the bars downtown, but an extra credit assignment for a creative writing class actually led me to The Bull, when I went to listen to a poetry reading there. The MFA program puts on the poetry reading nights at The Bull almost weekly, and it’s free to come and listen. The space is small but it creates a cozy, artsy vibe, with eye-catching decorations, good music, and (from what I’ve heard) pretty good beer.

4. Books-a-Million

If you’re a book lover like me, you were probably pretty bummed out when you discovered there were no Barnes And Noble bookstores around Gainesville. But don’t fret! There’s a great alternative. It’s Books-A-Million, off Newbury Rd. It has all of the same merchandise as B&N, and although it doesn’t come with a Starbucks, it has its own cute little café called Joe Muggs. If B&N was your special place to go when you were back home, BAM can hopefully satisfy that craving for you.

5. Fun Works Skating Rink

I love to roller-skate, so for me, I was so overjoyed when I found out there’s a skating rink in Gainesville. It’s called Fun Works, and not only does it have a skating rink, but it has arcade games and bumper cars available as well. Adult nights are on Wednesdays from 9pm-midnight, and the admission is fairly affordable!

These are just some of the many examples of not as well-known Gainesville places to socialize, eat, drink, exercise, and just chill. Keep in mind that the hub for these types of places are typically more centered Downtown, but definitely don't stop exploring all of Gainesville. Keep an open-mind and there's no stopping