Beautiful Gainesville, Florida creates the perfect opportunity to get outdoors!
Image via Flickr by Goliath Birdwing
Lodging
1. Hilton University of Florida Conference Center: This hotel looks like the perfect spot to catch up on rest and relaxation in between exploring all that Gainesville has to offer. Its nearness to local hot spots is a huge plus for me.
Coffee
2. CYM Coffee Co.: Google’s description of this quaint little shop informed me that it has a “. . . library-like setting with a porch.” Those factors, along with excellent reviews, indicate that this spot is sure to be a hit. The porch is so cute that I would be willing to sacrifice sitting in the Southern humidity just to enjoy it.
Breakfast
3. 43rd Street Deli & Breakfast House: The options are endless at this local favorite. The sweet potato waffles are unique and sound delicious! I really enjoy sweet potatoes so I’m curious to see how these waffles taste.
Morning Excursion
4. Ichetucknee Springs State Park: This park offers a tubing adventure through the river with the option to scuba dive. Google offers gorgeous images of the clear blue water at this park. With the humidity of the South, I know this would be a great way to keep cool while exploring at the same time.
Lunch
5. Metro Diner: Although I tend to choose entrées that are on the healthier side, the fried chicken and waffles would be my choice here. Metro Diner serves this dish with sweet strawberry butter, which I’ve never had before, but it sounds delicious!
Just for Fun
6. Devil’s Millhopper Geological State Park: This “National Natural Landmark” offers tourists the opportunity to travel 120 feet down the Devil’s Stairway to a small rainforest. Devil’s Millhopper has a very “Indiana Jones” feel to it, and I would love to explore the terrain.
Dinner
7. The Top: This restaurant is located in downtown Gainesville and offers many traditional favorites. The build-your-own grilled cheese option isn’t a typical menu item, so I’d love to give it a try.
Evening Excursion
8. Kanapaha Botanical Gardens: These gorgeous grounds allow visitors to explore independently or take a guided tour. A quick look at the map left me surprised at how large the gardens are. I would most likely explore on my own, so I could take my time.
Shopping
9. The Repurpose Project: This thrift store is unique in that it sells items that typically aren’t accepted at second-hand stores. I would love to poke around and find some fun, one of a kind décor items for my home.
Museum Tour
10. Florida Museum of Natural History: History is a subject I am passionate about so a stop here would be mandatory. I know my daughter would just love the Butterfly Rainforest and “The Scoop on Poop!” exhibit sounds both entertaining and educational!
Gainesville is a fun Florida town that offers many unique ways to explore nature and history, and places to shop and eat. A visit here is the perfect way to conclude a trip down South.
