The cover photo is probably the most obvious adventure scene in Gainesville: one of North America's most prehistoric places, Devil's Den Spring! There are so many other fun places that are also worth your while. If you would rather and outdoor activities aren't your thing, then there is always the movie theater. But I think getting out and being active is something we should all strive to do more of; so, here is a list to get you started of things already in your neighborhood.
1. Zip To The Zip Line.
Towering cliffs, sparkling lakes, old growth oak trees, massive canyons… and zip lines running through it all! You won't find this terrain anywhere but at The Canyons Zip Line & Canopy Tours. Julia (pictured) joined Play Hard Florida, which promotes being active while protecting wildlife, and has been able to experience so many thrill-seeking adventures. Zip lining was one of these adventures where you are able to glide over limerock caverns with enjoyable instructors.
2. Visit The Retirement Home For Horses.
Kylie Finkbone
Retirement Home for Horses at Mill Creek Farm's mission is to give life long care and allow these neglected "retirees" to ROAM FREELY WITH OTHER HORSES, LIVE IN PEACE AND DIE WITH DIGNITY. Each horse has a different story that is posted on the fence, and some of them are even police or military horses. It is open to the public on Saturdays from 11-3. The best part is the admission is only two carrots, but as a seasoned vet of visiting these noble creatures, I would bring at least two whole bags if I were you!
3. Enjoy Paynes Prairie.
Julia Ewers
More horses! There is definitely more to do there, and I'm not some weird horse girl I promise! Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park stretches over nearly 23,000 acres and over 30 miles of trails. There are so many different experiences with lots of amenities. I would have to say one of my favorite things to do here is watch either the sunrise or sunset depending on my day.
4. Jump In At Ginnie Springs.
The main activities that Ginnie Springs offers are floating, camping and diving. My personal favorite is floating because it requires little to no brain power, which is usually exactly what I'm looking for after a long week grinding on school work. So, WATER YOU WADING FOR?
5. Go To The Farmers Market
The Union Street Farmers Market is every Wednesday, rain or shine, from 4-7pm with the quest to make the world a better place- one vegetable at a time. Don't worry, there is a lot more than vegetables, so go check it out!
6. Explore The Butterfly Rainforest.
Ant Rozetsky on Unsplashhttps://unsplash.com/@rozetsky
If you took the What is the Good Life you probably unwillingly visited this beautiful place. I recommend going back when it isn't mandatory to actually enjoy all that the Butterfly Rainforest at the Florida Museum of Natural History has to offer. The Butterfly Rainforest is a can't-miss living exhibit that features hundreds of free-flying butterflies and birds from around the world along with an assortment of other animals including turtles and fish to experience firsthand.
7. Play More At Depot Park.
Depot Park's play area is open from dawn to dusk, with a splash pad, playground and lawn. Not saying the playground and splash pad are off limits for kids our age, but personally I would stick to the lawn and bring some good food and better friends to enjoy the fresh air with.
