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Explore Gainesville: Top Events and Attractions

Things to do in Gainesville Florida this week

Explore Gainesville: Top Events and Attractions from March 17 to March 30, 2025


Gainesville, Florida, is the perfect destination for those who love a mix of culture, history, and outdoor adventures. Whether you're planning a quick getaway, looking for exciting local events, or searching for a stunning venue for a special occasion, the next two weeks are packed with incredible opportunities. From world-class athletic championships to live music and scenic natural escapes, here’s a detailed guide to the best things to do in Gainesville from March 17 to March 30, 2025.


Upcoming Events in Gainesville


1. World Masters Athletics Indoor Championships (March 23-30, 2025)

🏅 This highly anticipated event is making history by being held in the U.S. for the first time! Gainesville will welcome elite athletes from across the globe to compete in various track and field, road racing, and throwing events. Taking place at the Alachua County Sports and Events Center, this championship is a must-see for sports fans and aspiring athletes.
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Visit Gainesville

2. Blues on the Patio Music Series (March 30, 2025)

🎷 If you love live music, don’t miss the "Blues on the Patio" series hosted by the North Central Florida Blues Society. Set at the A. Quinn Jones Museum & Cultural Center, this event offers an intimate, laid-back atmosphere to enjoy some of the best blues musicians in the region.
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Gainesville Events

3. Trivia Nights at Tioga Town Center (March 17 & 19, 2025)

🧠 Enjoy a fun and challenging night with friends at one of Gainesville’s best trivia events. Hosted at Fluid on March 17 and World of Beer on March 19, these trivia nights promise entertainment, great drinks, and plenty of laughs from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM.
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Tioga Town Center


Top Attractions in Gainesville


1. Butterfly Rainforest at the Florida Museum of Natural History

🦋 Step into a magical world filled with hundreds of butterflies fluttering through a lush tropical garden. The Butterfly Rainforest is a peaceful, immersive experience perfect for visitors of all ages.
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Tripadvisor

2. Kanapaha Botanical Gardens

🌿 Escape into a 62-acre botanical paradise featuring the largest public bamboo display in Florida and an extensive herb garden. This scenic location is perfect for photography, a peaceful stroll, or a romantic afternoon.
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Kanapaha Gardens

3. Devil's Millhopper Geological State Park

🌎 This rare natural landmark is a must-visit! A massive 120-foot-deep sinkhole with ancient rock formations and cascading waterfalls offers a fascinating look into Florida’s geological past. A wooden boardwalk leads you down into this breathtaking site.
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Devil's Millhopper

4. Morningside Nature Center

🐾 Step back in time at this 278-acre nature park featuring an 1800s-style living history farm. Visitors can explore miles of hiking trails through preserved Florida landscapes, making it an excellent spot for birdwatching and nature lovers.
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Morningside Nature Center

5. Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park

🐴 This 21,000-acre natural gem is home to wild horses, bison, and over 300 bird species. Climb the observation tower for an unforgettable panoramic view of the prairie’s expansive landscape.
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Paynes Prairie


Looking for a Stunning Event Venue?


Planning a special event? The Laurel Oak Inn is the perfect venue, offering an elegant and intimate setting with historic charm.

🏡 What Makes This Venue Special?
✔️ A beautiful wrap-around porch for outdoor gatherings
✔️ Cozy dining and living rooms for intimate celebrations
✔️ Rent the entire Inn for the weekend, including 7 bedrooms and 7.5 bathrooms
✔️ ADA-accessible with one ADA-compliant room
✔️ You have complete control over your event budget—choose your own caterers and planners!


📅 Rental Details:

Minimum stay: 2 nights

Check-in: 4:00 PM

Check-out: 11:00 AM


Reserve your spot now: The Laurel Oak Inn Booking


Final Thoughts


With so many exciting things happening in Gainesville, the next two weeks are the perfect time to explore. Whether you’re attending a major sporting event, discovering hidden natural gems, or hosting a special celebration at The Laurel Oak Inn, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.



🌟 What are you most excited to do in Gainesville? Let us know in the comments! 🌟

📺 Want a quick preview of Gainesville’s top attractions? Check out this video:
Top 10 Best Things to Do in Gainesville, Florida - Travel Guide 2025


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.


Aerial view of The Camellia Rose Inn
By Susannah Peddie March 22, 2025
A Smart Investment for Your Family The Camellia Rose Mansion offers offers off-campus housing with more than just a place for your children to live during their freshman year. It also presents a unique investment opportunity. The property includes a separate studio apartment and 4 large one-bedroom Hodges apartments, which can be used by you and other parents during football season and then rented out to short-term guests during the off-season, generating additional income.
The Cumberland Suite in the Laurel Oak Estate
By Susannah Peddie March 22, 2025
As parents, you want the very best for your children, especially as they embark on this exciting new chapter of their lives. The Laurel Oak Inn offers a unique and unparalleled living experience for incoming freshmen, providing a safe, comfortable, and supportive environment that fosters both academic success and personal growth. More Than Just a Place to Stay University of Florida parents can purchase the Laurel Oak Inn individually or as a group. Replace the king beds with twin beds and house up to 18 The Laurel Oak Inn is not just a rental property; it's an investment in your child's well-being. By purchasing the inn, you take control of their living environment, ensuring that it aligns perfectly with your values and expectations.
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