Mayday Ice Cream: A Must-Visit Sweet Spot in Gainesville

The Perfect Artists' Haven Why Gainesville? Gainesville, FL, offers a unique blend of nature and culture, making it the perfect city for artists seeking inspiration: Nature’s Beauty – From Paynes Prairie and the Sweetwater Wetlands to the picturesque trails of Devil’s Millhopper, Gainesville is full of breathtaking landscapes that inspire visual artists, writers, and musicians. Thriving Arts Scene – Home to The Hippodrome Theatre, the Harn Museum of Art, The Lynx Books, and an array of local galleries and markets, Gainesville fosters a deep appreciation for creativity. Community Support for the Arts – Regular art festivals, music events, and makers' markets provide artists with platforms to share and showcase their work. Why the Inns? Serene Setting – Nestled in Gainesville’s downtown historic district, these inns provide a peaceful retreat surrounded by century-old oak trees, lush gardens, and charming porches, perfect for quiet reflection. Elegant Accommodations – Spacious, beautifully decorated rooms create a welcoming and comfortable atmosphere, ideal for creative work and relaxation. Inspiring Spaces – Sun-drenched sitting rooms, wraparound porches, and garden nooks serve as natural studios for painters, writers, and musicians alike. Sense of Community – The layout of the inns allows for both privacy and social interaction, encouraging artistic collaboration through workshops, retreats, and creative gatherings. The inns are located next to each other, offering a combined 19 rooms: The Laurel Oak Inn – 7 rooms The Camellia Rose Inn – 7 rooms, 4 large one-bedroom apartments, and 1 studio The Laurel Oak Inn [Visit: www.laureloakinn.com ] The Laurel Oak Inn is a 5,700-square-foot historic Victorian home built in the 1880s. Fully restored in 2000 and upgraded again in 2018, it blends historic elegance with modern luxury. 7 bedrooms, 7.5 bathrooms, all with en suite bathrooms First Floor: A bright gourmet kitchen, large casual sitting area, formal and informal dining rooms, a half-bath, and an ADA-compliant room Second Floor: 4 rooms, a spacious hallway, and laundry room Third Floor: A private 2-bedroom apartment with a kitchenette, office space, dining area, and living room Additional highlights: Original heart pine floors throughout 5 fireplaces (in 5 bedrooms, the living room, and the dining room) Spacious porches on the front and side, perfect for enjoying Florida’s warm shade Large backyard patio that seats up to 70 people Space available for the construction of a two-story ADU (architectural plans included) Parking for 7 cars, with additional free street parking The Camellia Rose Inn, The Hodges House & Spat's Hideaway [Visit: www.camelliaroseinn.com ] Built in 1903, the Camellia Rose Inn is a stunning Victorian home in Gainesville’s historic district. Restored in 2006, this charming retreat offers seven spacious bedrooms, each with an en suite bathroom. Features of the Camellia Rose Inn Historic charm with original heart pine floors 5 fireplaces, adding warmth to the living room and guest rooms First Floor: Cozy kitchen area, grand foyer, spacious dining room, and two guest rooms (one ADA-compliant) Second Floor: Five beautifully appointed rooms, a large upper porch with rocking chairs, and a private porch with a bistro-style seating area Expansive wraparound porch – A favorite feature for guests, offering a tranquil setting for morning coffee, creative brainstorming, or simply enjoying the shade of the towering oak trees Lush gardens and greenery, creating an inspirational atmosphere for artists The Hodges House: Spacious Artist Apartments Adjacent to the inn, The Victorian Hodges House offers four large one-bedroom apartments, each with ample space, natural light, and private living areas, kitchens and bedrooms. These thoughtfully designed units provide extended-stay accommodations, making them perfect for visiting artists, writers, and musicians seeking a peaceful, fully furnished retreat. Spat’s Hideaway: A Cozy Private Studio For those looking for seclusion, Spat’s Hideaway is a charming studio apartment tucked away on the property. It includes: A private screened-in porch A whirlpool tub for relaxation A tranquil retreat while remaining steps away from the main inn’s community spaces The Camellia Rose Inn, Hodges House, and Spat’s Hideaway offer more than just accommodations—they provide a true escape into tranquility, history, and inspiration. With wide porches, intimate common areas, and lush surroundings, this property is the ideal setting for an artist retreat where creativity flourishes in Gainesville’s rich cultural and natural beauty. The Camellia Rose Inn property (8,400 square feet, 7 rooms, 4 large one-bedroom apartments, 1200+ SF of covered porch space, and a spacious studio): https://staygainesville.holidayfuture.com/listings/361700 The Laurel Oak Inn (5700 square feet, 7 rooms): https://staygainesville.holidayfuture.com/listings/360427