Things to do in Gainesville, FL: Paynes Prairie State Park

Choosing a private, historic inn over a standard hotel allows you to celebrate in style, enjoy luxurious amenities, and create unforgettable memories. Whether you’re looking for spacious accommodations, a cozy gathering space, or a convenient location near UF, these properties provide the perfect setting for an incredible graduation experience.

If you’re on the hunt for Gainesville’s best sushi, Kasai Sushi Bar & Kitchen is the place to be. Whether you’re stopping by for a quick sushi roll, a full-course meal, or a sake-pairing experience, you’ll leave impressed and satisfied.

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

Upcoming Gainesville Events You Won’t Want to Miss! Festivals, Sports, and More Gainesville is bustling with exciting events over the next few weeks , offering something for everyone—from community projects and live music to delicious festivals and thrilling sports games . Whether you’re looking to volunteer, celebrate, network, or just have fun , there are plenty of activities to check out. Here’s a roundup of must-attend events in Gainesville happening soon. Whether you’re a food lover, nature enthusiast, sports fan, or art aficionado , this list has you covered! 1. Great Invader Raider Rally – February 22, 2025 Join the Movement to Protect Gainesville’s Natural Spaces If you’re passionate about the environment and love getting involved in community projects , the Great Invader Raider Rally is the perfect opportunity. Taking place on Saturday, February 22, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM , this event is dedicated to removing invasive plant species to help Gainesville’s native wildlife flourish. What’s Happening at the Rally? 🌿 Volunteer Cleanup – Help remove non-native plant species from local parks. 📚 Educational Sessions – Learn about the impact of invasive plants and how to protect the ecosystem. 🎉 Family-Friendly Fun – Games and activities for children to get them excited about conservation. 🤝 Meet Like-Minded Nature Lovers – Network with environmentalists, park rangers, and community leaders . 📍 Location: Various parks and conservation areas in Gainesville. 🔗 Sign up or learn more: Gainesville.gov Great Invader Raider Rally 2. Swamp Fest 17 – February 22, 2025 Celebrate Swamp Head Brewery’s 17th Anniversary with Great Beer & Live Music Gainesville’s iconic Swamp Head Brewery is turning 17 , and they’re celebrating with a massive birthday party ! Swamp Fest 17 , happening on February 22, 2025 , promises an unforgettable day of craft beer, entertainment, and community fun . Festival Highlights: 🍺 Exclusive Beer Releases – Limited-edition brews available only at this event. 🎶 Live Music & DJs – Enjoy sets from local musicians and guest DJs . 🍽 Food Trucks Galore – Savor some of the best local eats from Gainesville’s top vendors . 🎟 Fun Games & Prizes – Participate in beer-themed contests and giveaways . 📍 Location: Swamp Head Brewery, Gainesville, FL 🔗 Find out more: Swamp Fest 17 Event Page 3. 5th Annual Strawberry Fest – February 22-23, 2025 Enjoy Sweet Treats & Family Fun at the Strawberry Festival Nothing says Florida springtime quite like a festival dedicated to strawberries ! Head over to the Suwannee County Fairgrounds in Live Oak on February 22-23, 2025 , to experience the 5th Annual Strawberry Fest —a must-visit for foodies and families alike. Festival Highlights: 🍓 Farm-Fresh Strawberries – Buy locally grown, sweet, juicy strawberries to take home. 🍰 Strawberry-Themed Treats – Try strawberry shortcake, pies, jams, and specialty drinks . 🎠 Carnival Rides & Games – Perfect for kids and families looking for a fun-filled weekend . 🛍 Local Vendors & Artisans – Shop for handmade goods, crafts, and unique gifts . 📍 Location: Suwannee County Fairgrounds, Live Oak, FL 🔗 Get festival details: 5th Annual Strawberry Fest 4. Florida Gators Softball Games – February 19 & February 21-23, 2025 Cheer on the Gators at Their Next Softball Matchups Sports fans, it’s time to support the Florida Gators softball team as they gear up for some exciting games this month. If you love high-energy college sports , this is the event for you! 📅 Game Schedule: February 19 – Florida Gators vs. North Florida (Home Game) February 21-23 – Florida Gators play in the Sun Devil Classic in Tempe, Arizona, taking on California Baptist, Arizona State, New Mexico State, Grand Canyon, and Iowa State. ⚾ Why Attend? 🏟 Live College Softball – Witness some of the best talent in women’s softball . 🎉 Exciting Atmosphere – Join the electric energy of Gator Nation . 🍔 Game Day Experience – Enjoy stadium snacks, great seating, and cheer for your team! 📍 Location: Katie Seashole Pressly Stadium, Gainesville, FL 🔗 Game schedule & ticket info: Florida Gators Softball 5. Gainesville Area Women’s Network (GAWN) Luncheon – February 19, 2025 Discover Intuitive Eating & Connect with Local Women Leaders The Gainesville Area Women’s Network (GAWN) Luncheon is an empowering event designed to help women connect, learn, and grow professionally . This month’s topic is "Intuitive Eating: Discover Your Eating Wisdom," a discussion that promotes a healthier relationship with food and mindful eating habits . 💡 What to Expect: 🥗 Expert Insights on intuitive eating and wellness . 🏆 Networking Opportunities with local women in business, leadership, and entrepreneurship . 🍽 A Delicious Lunch while learning from industry professionals . 📍 Location: Gainesville, FL 🔗 Register or learn more: GAWN Luncheon 6. “A Seat at the Table” Multicultural Exhibition A Unique Celebration of Gainesville’s Diverse Cultures If you’re looking for an event that celebrates art, diversity, and creativity , be sure to check out “A Seat at the Table.” This multicultural exhibition features art, music, and food from different cultural backgrounds , bringing the community together in a beautiful and meaningful way. 🎭 Event Highlights: 🎤 Poetry & Live Performances – Enjoy spoken word, storytelling, and musical acts . 🍛 Multicultural Cuisine Tastings – Experience flavors from around the world . 🖼 Art Displays – View incredible works from local and international artists . 📍 Location: Gainesville, FL 🔗 More details here: A Seat at the Table Final Thoughts: Get Ready for an Exciting Few Weeks! From nature conservation and live music festivals to college sports and cultural exhibitions , Gainesville is brimming with activity in the coming weeks. 🗓 Which event are you most excited about? Let us know in the comments, and be sure to share this guide with friends and family who want to make the most of what Gainesville has to offer! 📅 For even more local happenings, visit: 🔗 Visit Gainesville’s Event Calendar Looking for a place to stay while visiting the local Gainesville attractions? Look no further than Gainesville's locally owned vacation rental company, StayGainesville . Book directly on our site, or call us at 352-519-3994 for guidance. For homes and condos, StayGainesville has many options- large and small/ budget and luxury, and more. For a shorter stay, we have 2 beautiful historic Inns in downtown Gainesville. The Camellia Rose Inn and The Laurel Oak Inn - both have unique personalities and they both feel like a home away from home. Looking for more things to do in Gainesville? Visit our Things to Do link.

With a wide range of flavors, cuisines, and experiences, City Food Hall offers something for everyone, whether you’re craving handcrafted sushi, Southern-style fried chicken, or gourmet grilled cheese. It’s the perfect spot for casual diners, foodies, and social gatherings, providing a unique way to explore Gainesville’s best eats—all in one place.

Barnyard Buddies: A Hands-On Farm Experience for Families at Morningside Nature Center Looking for a fun, educational, and interactive experience for your family in Gainesville, Florida? Barnyard Buddies at Morningside Nature Center is the perfect midweek outing! Every Wednesday at 3:00 PM, families are invited to meet, interact with, and learn about farm animals in a way that’s both engaging and enriching.

The Champagne Gala: Dancing with the Stars is a night of elegance, entertainment, and community impact. It’s a chance to see the city’s leaders embrace the transformative power of dance while supporting one of Gainesville’s most treasured arts organizations.

Looking for something to do for Valentine's Day Weekend in Gainesville, FL? We have the package for you! Book your 2 night stay at either The Laurel Oak Inn or The Camellia Rose Inn for a romantic getaway.

The Hoggetowne Medieval Faire: "Hoggetowne Goes Downtown" is a celebration of culture, creativity, and community. By combining the rich traditions of the Middle Ages with Gainesville’s vibrant downtown, the event offers a fresh take on a beloved local tradition.