Visiting the University of Florida can be an exciting time! Whether you are checking out some UF tours or are a parent visiting a student, there is so much to do during your time here. When visiting a school, you get the opportunity to visit the entire area. Take advantage of it!
If you’re planning on visiting the University of Florida, our complimentary Vacation Guide can be a huge help! We know that it’s difficult to know what to do in a new area, so we’ve compiled a list to save you from hours of research. Skip the hardest part of trip planning and use our free guide to find:
- Outdoor activities for all skill levels
- Cultural events and entertainment
- The best restaurants in the area
- Festivals and attractions you won’t want to miss
5 of the Best Things to Do While Visiting the University of Florida
1. Visit a Museum
Gainesville is full of history. One of the best ways to learn about it while visiting is to go to a museum! The Florida Museum of Natural History is one of the nation’s top five national history museums, and it’s less than 15 minutes away from Sweetwater Branch Inn. Here, you’ll learn about the history of the state starting with some of the first people that ever walked on Florida soil.
2. Explore Downtown
To get a feel for the area, you have to explore it! We recommend borrowing some bikes at Sweetwater Branch Inn and riding downtown. Take in the towering trees covered in Spanish moss as you ride through our historic city. See the old colliding with the new here in Gainesville!
3. Grab a Bite to Eat
Visiting the University of Florida is sure to make you hungry! You have tons of options on where to eat here in Gainesville. Even Sweetwater Branch Inn has its own restaurant, The Sweet Tea! Use this as an easy dining option or make a to-go order for eating on the go. More of our favorite restaurants can be found in our Vacation Guide!
4. Shop Around
If you’re visiting the University of Florida to see a student, chances are they are going to need to go shopping! Check out some quaint stores downtown, or go somewhere like Butler Plaza for one-stop shopping. Here, you’ll find everything from well-known clothing brands to grocery stores!
5. Go on an Adventure
The area around Gainesville is filled with gorgeous landscapes that are just waiting for you to come explore. If you’re looking for a fun excursion, a favorite is the Devil’s Millhopper State Geological Site. A long set of stairs will bring you deeper and deeper into this natural sinkhole until you reach the mini rainforest at the bottom. Waterfalls trickle down the limestone walls, and the lush vegetation creates a beautiful sight.
Stay at Sweetwater Branch Inn when Visiting the University of Florida
We know the perfect place to stay while you’re visiting the University of Florida! Sweetwater Branch Inn is just down the street from the university, so you’re exactly in the area you need to be in. We can even arrange a shuttle to our inn if you are flying into the airport. Our knowledgeable staff can tell you everything you need to know about the area and give you recommendations on things to do! Choose from our cozy accommodations on our historic property. We look forward to seeing you!