Recently, I have been hearing a lot of my peers ask about ideas of what to do over summer because they feel like they are going to be "stuck" in our college town of Gainesville, Florida. However, after researching fun options for things to do, I decided I wanted to share all the things this summer can offer you, even if you feel "stuck."
1. Go rollerskating
There is a place called "Funworks" in Gainesville where you can go rollerskating, go karting, and play mini golf! I promise that if you're feeling bored, this place will cheer you up!
2. Visit Rainbow Springs and Devil's Den
Whether its diving, snorkeling, or camping, Devil's Den offers it all and it is only 35 minute drive away! Also, Rainbow Springs is just an additional 20 minutes where you can find tubing, kayaking, and horse trails!
3. Take you and your friends out to a nice brunch
There are plenty of great breakfast places found in Gainesville, but who has the time to enjoy a casual Sunday brunch? Well, now you do! My personal favorite is a cute restaurant called Civilization. Give it a try!
4. Go to Alachua County Farmers' Market
This event is held every Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. in the heart of Gainesville on 13th Street! Use this as an opportunity to meet our local farmers while discovering new and fresh findings.
5. Visit a friend at a different college
I am sure not all of your friends solely go to the University of Florida! Visit some of your high school besties in Tallahassee, Orlando or even the ones that went out of state! A few days out of town will do you some good!
6. Spend the day at Alachua County Humane Society
There is such a large number of animals that do not see many people and would die for some attention. Spend the afternoon with some of the sweetest cats and dogs you'll ever meet. Who knows? You might even find "the one."
7. Go to Saint Augustine Beach
So, Gainesville is pretty in the middle of the state, but nothing a relaxing hour and a half drive can't cure! Take this drive to jam out to some of those old songs you forgot you loved and next thing you know, you're at the beach! Saint Augustine is full love life, history, and fun!
8. Go to karaoke with your friends
There is a karaoke bar called "Stage 7" that is open to all ages in Gainesville! You make a reservation in advance to let them know how many people are going and then they place you in a private room! Nervous about singing in front of strangers? Now you do not have to be!
9. Visit a National Park
There are quite a few options in Gainesville and other surrounding cities. Check out Paynes Praire for an awesome sunrise/sunset!
10. Start fresh!
Now, this can go for any student (whether you are in college or even at UF). We always tell ourselves to clean out our closets and homes in the spring- hence Spring Cleaning. However, a new school year is on the rise! So take the day to get rid of all your old clothes you do not use!
You could either sell them online or at Plato's Closet. Or you could give them to a Goodwill or Salvation Army! Your closet and mind will be less cramped! And, hey, more room for new things!
