Are you looking for fun things to do while you’re visiting us? Our vibrant city has a lot to offer—between museums, concert venues, and great restaurants– there are plenty of options to choose from. If you want to take it easy and enjoy the nice Florida weather, head over to Depot Park in Gainesville! This lovely new park has everything you need to spend the perfect day. Read on to discover our favorite things to do there, and start planning your trip!
Do you want even more ideas for your visit? Download our free Vacation Guide and access all of the best local recommendations in a second! You’ll discover an array of restaurants, events, shops, museums, outdoor activities, and more.
What Can You Do at Depot Park in Gainesville?
Take a Stroll or Go on a Morning Run!
Depot Park is a wonderful place to relax and go for a walk. If you’re the athletic type, you can even go there for your morning run! Not only is it a beautiful area for a stroll, but it’s also really close to downtown. Enjoy 32 acres of ponds, trails, and rolling green hills.
Note: The park is usually open from dawn to dusk, but the visitor center is only open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The park is also completely ADA-compliant (including the picnic area and playground). The paved gravel makes maneuvering the park a piece of cake!
Explore the Conservation Area
This park is not only a green patch for visitors to enjoy, but it’s also a great place to learn about the local ecosystem and habitat. The southern half of Depot Park is filled with various wildlife and wetlands.
Cool Off at the Blue Grotto
Are you traveling with children or simply want to cool off from the Florida heat? If so, head over to the Blue Grotto! This waterfall with ground jets and water cannons was inspired by the underwater caverns in Central Florida.
Visit the Cade Museum
Dod you know Depot Park is also home to a museum? The Cade Museum features a variety of interactive activities and exhibits you’re sure to love. Marvel at modern creation techniques and channel your inner inventor! The museum is open Wednesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and from 1 to 5 p.m. on Sundays.
Grab a Bite at the General Store
Grab a Bite at the General StoreThese fun activities are sure to leave you hungry and thirsty, so be sure to stop by the General Store at the park to grab a bite. Pop-a-Top’s second location (you can find the first one on the corner of University and Main) is in the old train station off Depot Avenue and boasts a wonderful vintage atmosphere. Grab yourself a craft soda, order one of their delicious grilled sandwiches, and enjoy your meal in the beer and wine garden alongside the building! They usually have 80s music playing and occasionally host food trucks like Humble Wood Fire, which serves some of the best pizzas in town.
Do you want to discover more beautiful parks around Gainesville? We recommend venturing out to Bivens Arm Nature Park or Ichetucknee Springs State Park next. They’re both a fabulous outdoor escape where you can marvel at the beautiful Florida ecosystem and clear your mind from your every day worries.
Stay in the Most Beautiful B&B in Gainesville
Do you want to know the best part of Depot Park? It’s only three minutes away from Sweetwater Branch Inn! You can spend a beautiful afternoon with the ones you love and easily return to our cozy B&B, right on time for wine and cheese hour! We serve delicious, locally sourced wines and hors d’ oeuvres from 5 to 6 p.m. every evening. The best part? It’s complimentary for our guests!
Browse our selection of charming accommodations and pick the one you prefer. Between our elegant guest suites and cozy cottages, you’re bound to find just what you’re looking for. Make your trip even better by selecting one of our numerous packages and specials! Whether you’re celebrating an anniversary, surprising your significant other with a romantic getaway, or searching of a way to enhance your experience at Sweetwater, our packages are an ideal choice