Things to do in Gainesville
Gainesville, known as one of Florida’s popular tourist hotspots, boasts near-perfect weather all year round, making it an ideal place to explore the great outdoors
Even the Florida Museum of Natural History has outdoor exhibits and displays that encourage exercise and fun. Take a stroll next to the graffiti wall that displays the city's somewhat funky personality or immerse yourself in the excitement of college football. There are plenty of fun activities and adventures that await in Gainesville.
A Little Local History—34th Street Wall
Originally built as a retaining wall, Gainesville's 34th Street Wall is now a colorful local landmark. Walk along its 1,200-foot-long stretch and discover a bit of the city's unique history through the graffiti that covers it from both ends. Messages and drawings are constantly being added, even though the city paints over some of the artwork. The locals view the painted areas as blank canvases, and it all begins again. The wall is worth a look and more than a few photos.
Sharks and Butterflies
Imagine coming face-to-face with a collection of shark jaws, or finding fossils from mammals that lived almost as long ago as the dinosaurs. What about stepping into the middle of a butterfly rainforest? These are just a couple of the exhibits at the Florida Museum of Natural History, housed at the University of Florida campus. Venture outside into the fossil plant garden and find an 18-million-year-old cypress tree, or visit the South Florida People and Environments exhibit to learn about the original inhabitants of the region.
The Engines Roar at Auto Plus Raceway
Do you love the rush when two drag racers go from zero to 60 miles per hour in the blink of an eye? Head out to the drag strip at the Auto Plus Raceway on almost any weekend to catch some sort of local race. If you're in Gainesville in March, check out the official Amalie Motor Oil NHRA Gatornationals competition. Other options include the annual Midnight Madness races, held once a month from April through September. Except for special events and national races, tickets to the raceway are inexpensive and children under 12 are admitted for free. You'll find the raceway next to the Gainesville Airport on the northern end of town.
Eats and Treats in Gainesville
Enjoy a fruity frozen treat from a Gourmet pop shop location in town—perfect for a hot summer day! The Reggae Shack Cafe (619 West University Ave., Gainesville) specializes in Jamaican favorites such as jerk chicken, mahi-mahi with a mango-lime sauce and lots of crunchy salads. Leave room for the mango swirl cheesecake or some Caribbean-style hush puppies—made with a sweet center. Take the family to Mexico Lindo (7070 Southwest Archer Rd., Gainesville) for fish tacos, spicy enchiladas and more. Don't forget to try the flan.
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