Things to Do in Gainesville, FL - Gainesville Attractions
Things to Do in Gainesville
Check out must-see sights and activities:
Butterfly Rainforest, Florida Museum of Natural History, Nature & Wildlife Areas, Specialty Museums. For personalized recommendations, try our AI trip-planning product.
Butterfly Rainforest, Florida Museum of Natural History, Nature & Wildlife Areas, Specialty Museums. For personalized recommendations, try our AI trip-planning product.
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- fromper adult$15
- fromper group (up to 2)$970
Scavenger Huntsfromper group (up to 10)$20
Scavenger Huntsfromper adult$10
Stand Up Paddleboardingfromper adult$80
Kayaking Toursfromper adult$80
On the Waterfromper adult$80
On the Waterfromper adult$75
Kayaking Toursfromper adult (price varies by group size)$40
Walking Toursfromper adult$55
Nature & Wildlife Areas
Admission tickets from $15
Tranquil butterfly habitat with a diverse array of fluttering species and small birds amid exotic landscapes. Ideal for educational interaction and personal reflection.
This attraction description was created by AI, using information and phrases commonly found in reviews users submitted to Tripadvisor. Tripadvisor did not create and is not responsible for this description. Please read full traveler reviews for more details and information. If you believe something in this AI-generated description is inaccurate, please share your feedback.
Natural History Museums
Natural history museum with a diverse range of exhibits, including a discovery zone for kids, a Butterfly Rainforest, and a detailed Calusa Indian display.
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Interactive wildlife sanctuary featuring educational tours with up-close animal encounters, emphasizing conservation and animal welfare. Enjoy serene surroundings and learn about diverse species.
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Nature trail encircling a historic sinkhole with an observation deck, shaded paths, and informative signage. Features include a wooden staircase and tranquil woodland ambiance.
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Other Top Attractions around Gainesville
What travelers are saying
- ycarneyVero Beach, FL388 contributionsThis is a very nice place to go alone, with friends or with family. There are all sorts of beautiful butterflies and birds throughout the tour. We did not take a tour, we just walked through ourselves. It is really laid out nicely and it was so nice we went through it twice.Written February 1, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- SandtomFlorida351 contributionsThe museum is extremely educational in the way it is laid out, tracing the geological development of the earth/animals, explanations...great place to take your children, never mind yourself! Well worth 2 hours.
The Butterfly Rain Forest here is one of the top 3 butterfly museums we've ever been to. A huge variety of butterflies, beautifully/artistically designed garden. There were reference books at several places along the walk to identify what you were seeing, as well as a very knowledgeable guide to chat with. Nice little surprises were mini-quails snuggled in beneath the greenery. The museum is free except for the Butterfly Rain Forest which was $22 for two senior citizens...worth every cent. A must see.Written September 16, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - Colby K1 contributionWe had an unforgettable experience at Carson Springs Wildlife Conservation Foundation! The Halloween-themed drive-thru safari park was a fantastic blend of creativity and wildlife adventure. The staff were exceptional, ensuring everything went smoothly and answering questions with genuine enthusiasm. The animals looked happy and well-cared for, adding to the already amazing atmosphere.
The highlight was the spooky haunted horror house with scare actors who were truly terrifying—way more intense than what we’ve seen at Universal's haunted houses! Carson Springs managed to capture the Halloween spirit in a unique way that thrilled the whole family. Highly recommend this place for anyone looking for a fun, spooky, and heartwarming experience!Written November 11, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - foodiesince98San Jose, Costa Rica45 contributionsIt's a peaceful, quiet place with a variety of environments that make it perfect for a full day of exploration. Whether you're planning a picnic with friends, a family outing, or a romantic date, this garden has something for everyone.
It's easy to reach by bus, though you'll need to take a light walk to get there. Plus, it's close to The Oaks Mall, so you can grab some snacks beforehand. If you enjoy botany, birdwatching, or the sound of flowing water, this is definitely your place. The stunning oriental gardens are a standout feature. It's a must-visit if you're not from Gainesville and find yourself in town!Written September 30, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - 1952jaMassachusetts129 contributionsIf you've ever wondered about sinkholes then definitely make the trip to see this. It is quite remarkable when you think about it. The earth just literally opens up and creates a massive hole. There's alot of walking and alot of stairs so it's not quite so easy to maneuver but if you take your time and enjoy the day then you'll appreciate nature as it surrounds you.Written January 23, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- jennifer g2 contributionsBeautiful area and will go back again to see more in the rest of the park ....we were only able to get to one area to hike but will come back definitely for the rest of the parkWritten February 9, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Navigate760387New Jersey4 contributionsEnjoyed visiting the school and the town very much. Lots of great restaurants near by. Everyone in town was friendly. The only downside of the school and the town was the parking.Written August 27, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Sue BHomosassa, FL168 contributionsNice easy walking area. Nice to see the animals being cared for. Enjoyed hearing the students talk about the animals. They are so informative.Written August 14, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- pvbeachmomPalatka, FL65 contributionsIt's such a cool site and very popular. We arrived 20 minutes before sunset and people were already starting to gather along the fence and setting up chairs. Just after sunset, hundreds (thousands?) of bats fly out and away. In 15 minutes, the show is over then it takes another 15 minutes to exit the parking lot. Definitely worth it, though.Written October 23, 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Catherine MFlorida Keys, FL9 contributionsMy friends and I visited Depot Park while we were in town for a ladies weekend. We stayed at the Camellia Rose Inn, which was just a few blocks away from the park. We had a picnic and enjoyed strolling around the pond (and seeing turtles and birds). It's connected to the Hawthorne Trail, so we explored the trail for a short walk as well.Written April 8, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- PackUpNGoNowDavie, FL412 contributionsHarn Museum of Art is a wonderful museum located on the University of Florida campus.
Admission is free (confirm hours and parking fees before visit). There was free weekend parking during a holiday weekend but the parking lot might be limited to staff and students during the weekdays. We easily spent 2 hours at the museum.
Harn is a small museum but what is displayed is impressive. The breadth of exhibits was amazing including costume/textiles, photography, Asian art, contemporary artists and modern art. There are outdoor spaces too. We especially enjoyed the Florida landscapes displayed in the exhibit titled "Florida Impressions."Written December 7, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - Andy8 contributionsWe went for the game and the Gator fans were wonderful, friendly and accommodating. The Swamp restaurant along with V’s pizza were very good!
The Swamp is an amazing venue for football games. Fans fun and the atmosphere was fantastic!
The Aggies won and the fans were all good sports about it all.Written September 26, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
The above attraction descriptions were created by AI, using information and phrases commonly found in reviews users submitted to Tripadvisor. Tripadvisor did not create and is not responsible for any of the above hotel descriptions. Please read full traveler reviews for more details and information. If you believe something in one of these AI-generated descriptions is inaccurate, please share your feedback.
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