Gainesville：Largest City in North & Central Florida Boasting a Potpourri of Fun Activities

Gainesville is the county seat of Alachua County, Florida. Being the largest city in North and central Florida, the place not only houses renown education facilities but also host a number of captivating sightseeing sights. A potpourri of fun activities that one can indulge in while visiting this gem of a city have been outlined below.

1. Butterfly Rainforest

Butterfly Rainforest located adjacent to the famous Han Art Museum which is also a remarkable sightseeing site in Gainesville. The scenery is filled with interesting exhibits, beautiful birds, plants, and butterflies as they are all found in this gorgeous rainforest. An opportunity to interact with nature first hand is just but a bonus, but one ought to be careful where they step, cause the ravishing creatures are all over the place. The sightseeing site not only displays a vast variety of butterflies but also gives an educative lecture on them. This is certainly a go-to site while in Gainesville. Be sure to get there early because the place closes at five in the evening.

2. Paynes Prairie

Paynes Prairie a magnificent nature area comprising of a woodland and swamp. Spread out on about 15000 acres, the place serves as an information center and a wildlife area. The numerous trails in different sections of the park make it more interesting to traverse as one enjoys the captivating scenery of the wildlife around. Exotic breeds such as the wild horses and bisons are hosted here together with a number of mind-blowing exhibits. The terrific lakes around the park make the scenery more breathtaking for the campers. There is a sinkhole too that is on the sightseeing list. When visiting Gainsville, be sure to stop by and enjoy the breezy lakes and vast natural bodies sprawling through Paynes Prairie.

3. Devil's Millhopper Geological State Park

Devil's Millhopper geological state park is rich with natural wonders. Thrilling as it seems, the trip down the sinkhole is adventurous and fun. One is able to enjoy the panoramic view of the mountain and capture photos of nature at its best from different points of the excursion. A small token is required to access the place. This is no problem because one is able to enjoy the peace and quiet this park offers. The sightseeing site is highly recommended for those who crave outdoor adventure. Ideal for training or a hike on a dry day.

4. Samuel P. Harn Museum of Art

Samuel P.Harn Museum of Art is situated along Hull Road. The sizeable sightseeing site is equipped with exquisite exhibits and unique art forms held in wonderful drawings and paintings. Touching both on educative and leisurely aspects, the ravishing museum is ideal for all ages. No charges are required upon entry except the $4 parking fee. The sparkling clean interior of the building and the atmospheric black and white photos by Michael Kenna make the place outstanding. Historical artifacts can be observed near the outdoor Zen garden. When touring Gainesville, consider visiting the marvelous Samuel P.Harn Museum of Art.

5. Ben Hill Griffin Stadium

The neatly set up Ben Hill Griffin Stadium hosts among the best college football matches of all time. It remains open daily until 10 pm, the place gives an exception for pregame days where teams are allowed to train within the facility. The interactive sightseeing site is spotless with a decent bathroom area to freshen up after training. The architectural beauty of the strategically positioned rows and large screens TVs on both end zones is just perfect. This is a go-to sight while visiting Gainesville to enjoy the fun football games and good food offered here.

6. Swamp Head Brewery

Swamp Head Brewery was founded in 2008, in the great city of Gainesville. The strategically situated sightseeing site offers a taste of world class beer in a relaxed environment. A huge taproom with a vast selection is availed in the premises. The weekends are packed with fun-filled activities and will have a DJ on site and a food truck in-case you may need a bite. The adjacent gator swamp is a fun place to relax after a tour through the Swamp Head Brewery. Since the place is easily accessible, it is an ideal stopover while sightseeing in Gainesville.

7. Stephen C. O'Connell Center

Stephen C.O’Connell center is a multi-purpose arena situated on the University of Florida campus in Gainesville. The O’Dome is a fascinating sporting arena that has been home to a handful of concerts and sporting events since the late nineties.The score projection displayed on the floor is just but a touch of its unique architecture plus its 11,000 seat capacity. The overwhelming facility caters for a number of interactive sightseeing activities including; basketball, swimming, and gymnastics among other sporting activities. The multifunctional facility in the heart of Gainesville is perfect for the sports lover.

8. Thomas Center

The Historic Thomas Center is termed as a National Historic site in Gainesville. This sightseeing site is filled with remarkable history about Gainesville. The restoration of the building from the Mediterranean Revival-style hotel is perfect. A glimpse of one of the two galleries can be spotted from the lovely gardens adjacent. A free audio tour through Thomas family is offered. The lawn is well manicured with sparse but attractive gardens. There are great photography spots available such as the small stage near the turtle fountain. No charges are required upon entry.

9. Gainesville Raceway

Gainesville Raceway is a one of a kind legendary racetrack situated in Gainesville. The raceway is famous for the many records broken here. The thrilling experience of the cars as they thunder down the strip one after the other is fun to watch. What makes the sightseeing site stand out is the track’s design, staffs’ hospitality. and facilities offered. Auto-plus Raceway is well maintained and adequate control of human traffic at the ever packed place. The best time to visit the racetrack is Friday because you get to enjoy the drag races.

10. Carson Springs Wildlife Conservation Foundation

Carson Spring Wildlife Conservation Foundation is a nonprofit exotic animal rescue and breeding center. On tour, one is enlightened on the vast variety of exotic breeds of wildlife here and their personal history. The collective efforts of the volunteers and owners have made sure that the animals are well taken care of and the place is clean. A tour through the animal park lasts about two hours but an optional break is provided. It is definitely a remarkable sightseeing site to visit and embrace nature's beauty as you get some educational insight.

◎ Closing

Gainesville may seem business oriented but still has a number of interactive activities. The still waters and numerous natural features, wildlife, and welcoming culture make it an ideal tourist destination. Gainesville has a lot to offer from its ravishing historical museums to its wildlife. For the best outdoor and interactive activities, this is the place to be.

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Gainesville：Largest City in North & Central Florida Boasting a Potpourri of Fun Activities