The Camellia Rose Inn: 120 years of Ownership History

The Camellia Rose Inn 120 years of history ✨ Did you know the Inn was originally known as the Swearingen House? Built in 1903 by Thomas J. Swearingen who owned one of the first automobile dealerships in Gainesville, lived in the original house for 15 years. Swearingen then sold to grocer George A. Dell who sold it 3 years later to a wholesale grocer Hal C. Batey who would later became a mayor of Gainesville. 36 years later the house was bought by Dr. Oliver Austin, during this time many changes were made to the house and in 1978 new owners Mark & Mary Barrow restored the old Swearingen House. 28 years later the house was purchased by Pat and Tom McCants and whom renamed it to the Camellia Rose Inn. The McCants shared this beautiful home with many visitors to Gainesville and out the ground work for what it is today! The Camellia Rose inn is now owned by a local Gainesville Company @staygainesville & Southern Comfort Properties who believed the Camellia Rose Inn would be a wonderful addition to their short-term properties, bringing you your home away from home ❤️ #gainesvillehistory #gnvhistoricdistrict #gnvhistory

Unveiling the Timeless Charm: The Rich History of the Camellia Rose Inn

Nestled in the heart of Gainesville, Florida, the Camellia Rose Inn stands as a testament to the city's rich history and enduring charm. Originally constructed over a century ago, this historic bed and breakfast has been lovingly restored to its former glory, offering guests a glimpse into the past while providing modern comforts and amenities. Join us as we journey through the storied history of the Camellia Rose Inn, from its humble beginnings to its current status as a beloved landmark in the Gainesville community.

1. Origins and Early Years:

The story of the Camellia Rose Inn begins in the late 19th century when the original building was constructed in the heart of Gainesville's historic district. Originally a private residence, the house was known for its distinctive architectural features, including ornate woodwork, wrap-around porches, and elegant detailing. Over the years, the house changed hands several times, serving as a family home, a boarding house, and even a small hotel at various points in its history.

2. Transformation and Restoration:

In the early 1990s, the Camellia Rose Inn underwent a significant transformation when it was purchased by a local couple with a passion for historic preservation. Recognizing the building's architectural significance and potential as a bed and breakfast, the new owners embarked on an extensive restoration project to bring the house back to its former glory. Careful attention was paid to preserving the original character and charm of the building, while updating the interior with modern amenities and conveniences.

3. Opening as a Bed and Breakfast:

In 2008, after years of meticulous restoration work, the Camellia Rose Inn opened its doors to guests for the first time as a bed and breakfast. From the moment visitors stepped through the front door, they were greeted with warm hospitality, elegant surroundings, and a sense of stepping back in time. Each of the inn's guest rooms was lovingly appointed with period furnishings, antiques, and luxurious linens, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere for guests to enjoy.

4. Warm Hospitality and Personalized Service:

From its inception, the Camellia Rose Inn has been renowned for its warm hospitality and personalized service. The staff go above and beyond to ensure that every guest feels welcome and at home during their stay.

5. A Haven for Travelers and Visitors:

Over the years, the Camellia Rose Inn has become a beloved destination for travelers and visitors seeking a unique and memorable lodging experience in Gainesville. From couples celebrating anniversaries and romantic getaways to families exploring the area's attractions and universities, the inn welcomes guests from near and far with open arms. Its central location, historic charm, and personalized service make it the perfect home base for exploring all that Gainesville has to offer.

6. Community Involvement and Outreach:

In addition to serving as a welcoming retreat for travelers, the Camellia Rose Inn is actively involved in the Gainesville community, supporting local charities, events, and initiatives. From hosting fundraisers and charity events to participating in fundraising auctions and volunteer projects, the owners do their best to help contribute to the Gainesivlle community.

7. Legacy and Continued Excellence:

As the years have passed, the Camellia Rose Inn has continued to uphold its legacy of excellence, earning accolades and recognition from guests, travel publications, and industry organizations alike. From glowing reviews and awards for outstanding service to repeat visits and referrals from satisfied guests, the inn's reputation for excellence has only grown stronger over time. As it enters its third decade of operation, the Camellia Rose Inn remains a beacon of hospitality, history, and charm in the heart of Gainesville.

The Camellia Rose Inn stands as a shining example of historic preservation, warm hospitality, and timeless charm. From its humble beginnings over a century ago to its current status as a beloved bed and breakfast in Gainesville, the inn has left an indelible mark on the community and the hearts of all who have had the pleasure of staying there. Whether you're a history buff, a romantic at heart, or simply seeking a unique and memorable lodging experience, the Camellia Rose Inn invites you to step back in time and create your own unforgettable memories in the heart of Gainesville, Florida.

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BAMBUU Asian Eatery in Gainesville Florida

BAMBUU Asian Eatery: Gainesville’s Go-To Spot for Flavorful Bowls

By Susannah Peddie • April 2, 2025

BAMBUU Asian Eatery: Gainesville’s Go-To Spot for Flavor-Packed Bowls and Modern Vibes Gainesville’s dining scene just got a major upgrade with the arrival of BAMBUU Asian Eatery, a fast-casual fusion concept that’s already making waves across town. From build-your-own bowls to freshly prepared appetizers and a welcoming atmosphere, BAMBUU offers a delicious, modern take on classic Asian flavors—all served fast and made with care. Whether you’re craving comfort food with a twist or just need a healthy lunch option near campus or work, BAMBUU hits the spot. 🍜 What Is BAMBUU? BAMBUU Asian Eatery is a Florida-born concept that blends traditional Chinese, Japanese, and Korean cooking with a fresh, contemporary spin. It’s designed to deliver quick, high-quality meals built around customizable options and clean ingredients. Everything is made-to-order, and you’re in control—choose your base, mix in your favorite proteins or veggies, and top it off with scratch-made sauces. It’s a fun, casual experience that doesn’t compromise on flavor or freshness. 🌐 Visit BAMBUU Online 📍 Where to Find It The Gainesville location is right in the action at 3606 SW Archer Road , in the busy Butler Plaza area. That makes it super convenient for University of Florida students, Shands staff, and anyone shopping or running errands in the area. Whether you’re grabbing lunch between classes or picking up dinner on your way home, BAMBUU’s spot is easy to access and surrounded by plenty of parking. 🍱 The Menu: Build Your Bowl, Your Way One of the most appealing aspects of BAMBUU is its build-your-own bowl format . Whether you're vegetarian, gluten-free, or just picky (hey, no judgment!), there’s something here for everyone. Start with a base like: White rice Fried rice Lo mein noodles Fresh greens Then add your proteins and vegetables—options include: Grilled chicken Spicy beef Korean BBQ pork Basil shrimp Tofu (for a plant-based option) Their signature combos include: The Bambuu Bowl : Choose 2 bases + 3 proteins/veggies The Four Bowl : 2 bases + 2 toppings The Two Bowl : A single base + 1 topping—perfect for lighter appetites Every bowl comes to life with bold sauces like sweet soy glaze, creamy sesame, or spicy chili garlic. 🧾 Explore the Full Menu 🥠 Don’t Skip the Starters Before you even get to your bowl, BAMBUU’s appetizers deserve their own spotlight. They offer crave-worthy sides that are ideal for sharing (or hoarding for yourself). Top picks include: Cream Cheese Rangoon – Crispy and golden with a creamy, savory filling Veggie Spring Rolls – Light, crispy, and perfect with dipping sauce Whether you’re dining in or ordering out, these are the perfect sidekick to any bowl. 🧑‍🍳 Fast-Casual Done Right BAMBUU offers a quick and easy dining experience without sacrificing quality. Guests walk through the ordering line (similar to Chipotle), selecting bases, proteins, veggies, and sauces as they go. It’s efficient, friendly, and made right in front of you—so there’s no wondering what’s going into your food. The interior is clean and modern with just enough flair to feel fun and welcoming—whether you’re eating solo or with a group. 🎉 Hosting an Event? They Cater, Too BAMBUU also provides group catering , which is perfect for office luncheons, family parties, or student events. Catering trays are available in several sizes and include full meals with proteins, bases, sauces, and sides. They make it easy to customize a spread for any crowd—with the same bold flavors and fresh ingredients they’re known for in-store. 🥡 Order Catering via ezCater 💬 Community First: Giving Back in Gainesville Since opening, BAMBUU has made it a point to give back to the Gainesville community. They’ve hosted appreciation events with free meals for teachers, hospital staff, and first responders , showing their gratitude to those who make the city better every day. That kind of heart isn’t something you see every day in a fast-casual restaurant—and it’s one of the many reasons BAMBUU is earning loyal fans quickly. 🚀 Growing in Florida This is BAMBUU’s second location , following their successful debut in Vero Beach . Gainesville was selected as their next stop thanks to its diverse, energetic population and thriving food culture. Their vision doesn’t stop here—more locations are in the works, including one coming soon to Clermont, FL. 📍 See All BAMBUU Locations 🌟 What Customers Are Saying Reviews have been glowing so far. Customers love the bold flavors, the speedy service, and the freedom to create a meal that’s just right for them. One happy diner shared: “Fresh, flavorful, and fast. Exactly what Gainesville needed. The spicy sauce was amazing, and I’ll definitely be back for the cream cheese rangoons.” 🗣️ Read Reviews on Yelp 📦 Dine Your Way: In-House, Pickup, or Delivery You can enjoy BAMBUU however you like: Dine-in for a casual sit-down meal Takeout for lunch breaks or dinners on the go Curbside pickup for convenience Delivery through DoorDash, Grubhub, and Uber Eats Whether you’re relaxing at home or on the move, your next flavorful meal is just a few taps away. Final Bite: Why BAMBUU Deserves a Spot on Your Foodie Radar Gainesville’s restaurant scene is always growing, but BAMBUU brings something fresh and exciting to the table. With high-quality ingredients, a commitment to community, and a menu that’s endlessly customizable, this is more than just another rice bowl joint. It’s a place to connect, eat well, and feel good about your meal—every single time. 📍 Visit BAMBUU at 3606 SW Archer Road, Gainesville, FL 32608 🌐 Order Online or View Menu 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.

Things to do in Gainesville Florida this week!

Spring into Gainesville: 4 Amazing Events Happening This Weekend

By Susannah Peddie • March 26, 2025

From garden blooms to craft brews and scenic bike rides, Gainesville is full of life this weekend. Whether you’re planning to explore or host, this is the perfect time to enjoy all that spring has to offer. And when you’re ready to rest or celebrate, The Laurel Oak Inn and The Camellia Rose Inn provide ideal settings to unwind in style.