Taking a vacation, no matter how short, is always a bit of a sacrifice. You need to take off work and break into your savings for transportation and lodging. So, when you’re there, the last thing you want to do is push your budget over the limit. That’s why we wrote this blog! We know that you don’t need to spend a fortune to have fun, and these five free things to do in Gainesville, FL, are testaments to that. Read on to discover how exciting and budget-friendly your trip will be and start planning it today!
Do you know what else is free? Our exclusive Vacation Guide! Let us give you this great planning tool that includes information about some of our favorite places in town. Discover amazing local restaurants, events, shops, museums, outdoor adventures, and more!
Don’t Break the Bank and Enjoy These 5 Free Things to Do in Gainesville, FL
Hike the Trail at Alfred A. Ring Park
Gainesville is an exciting place to visit and offers lots of wonderful things to do. One of our favorites is to head over to Alfred A. Ring Park in the morning and enjoy a rejuvenating hike! This beautiful nature preserve (Gainesville’s very first!) offers 21 acres of gorgeous scenery, including a 1.4-mile trail you can walk along with your loved ones.
Have a Picnic at Depot Park
If you’d rather go for a stroll, then Depot Park is the place for you. It’s one of the most recent parks in town and offers a great backdrop for a walk. The park features a pond, several little trails, and lush, green hills where you can relax and enjoy a delicious picnic. Stop by the General Store at the old train station to grab a sandwich and a drink, and find the perfect spot for your scenic lunch!
Tour the Florida Museum of Natural History
Did you know the Museum of Natural History has free admission? Browse their numerous exhibits on the local ecosystem, including the butterfly rainforest, and learn more about what makes Northern Florida the gem it is.
Visit the Matheson Museum
Another place that offers free admission is the Matheson Museum. There, you can learn more about Gainesville’s history and the Alachua County Historical Society. The museum building used to be the American Legion Hall, which was built in 1932, and features high-quality exhibits and programs.
Go Bird and Alligator Watching at the Sweetwater Wetlands Park
If you can’t quite get enough of Gainesville’s natural beauty, we have one more free outdoor attraction for you: the Sweetwater Wetlands Park. This stunning area in downtown Gainesville will make you feel as if you stepped into the wild. You’ll most likely see alligators and birds, so remember to bring your binoculars!
Sweetwater Inn Welcomes You for a Relaxing Stay
Do you want to know what’s great about Sweetwater Branch Inn? It’s at the heart of downtown Gainesville and near all these fabulous free activities we just listed. Once you’re done exploring, come home to our lovely inn and enjoy a wine and cheese hour before dinner, and then retreat into one of our beautiful rooms for a good night of sleep. Take a hot shower in our modern bathrooms and slip into our luxurious sheets. When you wake up in the morning, join us for a scrumptious breakfast! We make everything ourselves to serve you the freshest ingredients and mouthwatering entrees. Did you know we also offer several specials and packages to enhance your stay? Browse our selection today and choose the one that you and your significant other will enjoy the most. Maybe an in-room massage? A romantic picnic basket to take with you? The choice is yours, and so is the fun!