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Romantic Valentine's Weekend Package at the Historic Inns

Romance Made Easy: Book Your Weekend at The Laurel Oak or Camellia Rose Inns

The Laurel Oak Inn & Camellia Rose Inns for a Valentine weekend getaway. Chocolates, champagne, and a romantic room.
Celebrate Valentine’s Day Weekend in Style at The Camellia Rose Inn and The Laurel Oak Inn

Book The Camellia Rose Inn

Valentine’s Day is fast approaching, and what better way to honor love than by escaping for a romantic retreat? Whether you’re planning to surprise your partner with a luxurious getaway or enjoy a delightful staycation close to home, Gainesville, Florida, provides the perfect mix of charm, relaxation, and unforgettable experiences.

This year, The Camellia Rose Inn and The Laurel Oak Inn are hosting a special Valentine Weekend Package from February 14th to 17th, 2025. With a blend of thoughtfully curated extras and Gainesville’s lively attractions, this weekend is designed to make your celebration extraordinary.

The Ultimate Valentine Weekend Package

Book a two-night stay at either The Camellia Rose Inn or The Laurel Oak Inn during Valentine’s weekend, and you’ll be greeted with delightful surprises. Each booking includes:

A bottle of sparkling wine to raise a toast to your love and start your stay with a sparkle.

A heart-shaped box of chocolates, perfect for sharing sweet moments together.

A bouquet of fresh flowers, adding a fragrant and romantic touch to your room.

As an added treat, guests staying on Friday night will receive 15-minute massages for each person, setting the tone for a relaxing and rejuvenating weekend.

Why Choose Gainesville for Valentine’s Day?

Gainesville isn’t just a university town. With its stunning natural beauty, cultural richness, thriving culinary scene, and exciting sporting events, it’s a fantastic destination for couples seeking the ideal mix of activity and tranquility. Here are just a few reasons to celebrate Valentine’s Day in Gainesville:

1. Romantic Outdoor Escapes

Gainesville is full of beautiful outdoor locations that are ideal for couples who love to explore. Take a peaceful stroll through the breathtaking Kanapaha Botanical Gardens, where you’ll find colorful blooms and serene water features. For something more adventurous, hike the trails at Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park, where you might catch sight of wild horses or bison. And don’t miss Sweetwater Wetlands Park, an excellent spot for birdwatching and stunning sunset views.

2. Exceptional Dining Options

No romantic weekend is complete without delicious food, and Gainesville delivers a wide array of culinary delights. Savor an intimate dinner at acclaimed restaurants like Embers Wood Grill, known for its refined atmosphere and expertly prepared dishes, or Dragonfly Sushi & Sake Company, which offers fresh sushi and creative cocktails. For a casual breakfast or brunch, check out local favorites like The Top or Volta Coffee for tasty dishes and a laid-back vibe.

3. Cultural and Artistic Attractions

Dive into Gainesville’s vibrant arts and culture scene. Explore the Harn Museum of Art, featuring an outstanding collection from around the world, or visit the Florida Museum of Natural History, home to the enchanting Butterfly Rainforest. For live performances, consider the Hippodrome Theatre, which often hosts romantic plays or musical shows that perfectly fit the Valentine’s Day spirit.

4. Exciting UF Sporting Events

For sports fans, Valentine’s weekend in Gainesville coincides with thrilling University of Florida (UF) games. Cheer for the Gators at the women’s gymnastics meet, enjoy the excitement of a baseball game, or join the crowd at a men’s basketball game. These events are a fantastic way to share high-energy fun while celebrating your love for each other and the game.

5. Relaxing Staycation for Locals

If you live in Gainesville, there’s no need to travel far to enjoy a memorable Valentine’s celebration. The Camellia Rose Inn and The Laurel Oak Inn offer the perfect opportunity for a staycation, letting you step away from daily routines and reconnect with your partner in an elegant, peaceful environment. Sometimes, the best way to reignite romance is by rediscovering your own backyard.

About The Camellia Rose Inn and The Laurel Oak Inn

Both inns are celebrated for their historical charm, exceptional service, and attention to detail, making them ideal for couples in search of a romantic retreat.

The Camellia Rose Inn: Situated in Gainesville’s historic district, this beautifully restored bed and breakfast seamlessly blends vintage elegance with modern comforts. Each uniquely designed room offers a cozy and intimate atmosphere. Enjoy the porch swing, sip wine in the lush garden, or relax in the inviting common areas.

The Laurel Oak Inn: Also located in the historic district, The Laurel Oak Inn features a warm and welcoming ambiance, with luxurious accommodations and thoughtful touches. From its charming parlor to its serene outdoor spaces, this inn provides the ideal backdrop for romance.

Both inns are within walking distance of downtown Gainesville, making it easy to explore local attractions, unique shops, and delightful dining options.

Make the Most of Your Valentine Weekend

Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your Valentine’s Day weekend at The Camellia Rose Inn or The Laurel Oak Inn:

Book Early: With such an appealing package, rooms will likely fill up quickly. Make your reservation as soon as possible to secure your spot.

Plan Your Schedule: While the inns provide a cozy and relaxing atmosphere, take advantage of Gainesville’s attractions to create a memorable weekend. From romantic meals to scenic walks and exciting sports events, craft an itinerary that suits your interests as a couple.

Pack Thoughtfully: Bring comfortable clothes for exploring the outdoors, as well as a stylish outfit for a romantic dinner. Don’t forget essentials like sunscreen, a camera, and any special items to make your stay even more memorable.

Savor the Experience: Take the time to truly relax and appreciate each other’s company. Whether you’re toasting with sparkling wine, enjoying chocolates, indulging in massages, or cheering at a UF game, let the weekend be a celebration of your love.

Wrap Up Your Valentine’s Celebration with Memories to Treasure

Valentine’s Day is all about celebrating love, and there’s no better place to do it than The Camellia Rose Inn or The Laurel Oak Inn in Gainesville, Florida. Whether you’re coming from out of town or treating yourself to a staycation, this Valentine Weekend Special is designed to create lasting memories filled with romance, relaxation, and charm.

Don’t wait—plan your perfect getaway now. Reserve your room today and get ready for an unforgettable Valentine’s experience. This Valentine’s Day, let Gainesville and its historic inns set the stage for your love story.
BAMBUU Asian Eatery in Gainesville Florida
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. ๐Ÿœ 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. ๐ŸŒ Visit BAMBUU Online ๐Ÿ“ 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. ๐Ÿฑ 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. ๐Ÿงพ Explore the Full Menu ๐Ÿฅ  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. ๐Ÿง‘‍๐Ÿณ 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. ๐ŸŽ‰ 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. ๐Ÿฅก Order Catering via ezCater ๐Ÿ’ฌ 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. ๐Ÿš€ 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. ๐Ÿ“ See All BAMBUU Locations ๐ŸŒŸ 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.” ๐Ÿ—ฃ๏ธ Read Reviews on Yelp ๐Ÿ“ฆ 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. ๐Ÿ“ Visit BAMBUU at 3606 SW Archer Road, Gainesville, FL 32608 ๐ŸŒ 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!
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.
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