The Laurel Oak Inn
Step Back in Time with Modern Comfort: Why You Should Book The Laurel Oak Inn in Gainesville, FL
Website: http://www.laureloakinn.com
Address: 221 SE 7th Street, Gainesville, FL
The StayGainesville Connection:
StayGainesville's Susannah Peddie met the previous owners, Nan and Dave Charland, immediately after the purchase of The Camellia Rose Inn. The Laurel Oak Inn is the immediate next door neighbor of The Camellia Rose Inn. Susannah immediately turned to Nan for advice and guidance, and over the years, Nan was kind and caring and helped Susannah with many Inn-related situations. Nan and Susannah used to meet on the porch of The Camellia Rose Inn and caught up on business, shared ideas, and talked about the future. One day, Susannah realized that The Laurel Oak Inn was for sale, and again, Susannah had a light bulb light up in her head... she consulted with her StayGainesville and Camellia Rose Inn partners, UF graduates Gregg Gelber and Ed Rodriguez, and the 3 decided that The Laurel Oak Inn would be the perfect addition. They purchased the Inn in May of 2023 and have loved the experience. They are beginning to use both Inns (jointly) for events and they are continually looking for ways to improve both Inns by combining services.
This meticulously restored Bed and Breakfast isn't just a place to stay; it's an experience that transports you to a bygone era of gracious hospitality and refined comfort. Whether you're seeking a romantic getaway, a relaxing escape from the everyday, or a charming base for exploring Gainesville, The Laurel Oak Inn offers a unique and unforgettable stay.
A Legacy of Hospitality: Unveiling the Story of The Laurel Oak Inn
The Laurel Oak Inn boasts a rich history that stretches back over a century. Originally built in the early 1900s, the house served as a private residence for prominent Gainesville families. In 2003, it was meticulously transformed into a Bed and Breakfast, preserving the historical charm while incorporating modern amenities for a truly luxurious experience. The Inn's current owners, Dave and Nan, operate with a commitment to Southern hospitality, ensuring every guest feels welcomed, pampered, and right at home.
A Feast for the Senses: Unveiling the Elegance of The Laurel Oak Inn
Step inside The Laurel Oak Inn, and you're greeted by a sense of timeless elegance. The grand staircase, adorned with intricate woodwork, sets the stage for a journey into the past. The meticulously restored common areas boast original hardwood floors, fireplaces crackling with warmth (during cooler months), and plush furniture that invites you to relax and unwind. Sunlight streams through stained-glass windows, casting vibrant colors on the walls, while the aroma of freshly baked goods wafts from the on-site kitchen, creating a sensory experience that awakens the senses.
A Haven of Luxury: Unveiling the Exquisite Accommodations
The Laurel Oak Inn offers a variety of exquisitely appointed guest rooms, each with its own unique character and charm:
A Suite Symphony: Indulge in the spacious luxury of one of the Inn's suites. The Chestnut Suite, with its queen-sized bed and private balcony, offers a romantic escape. The Savannah Suite, reminiscent of the Southern charm of Georgia, features a whirlpool tub perfect for a relaxing soak. Each suite boasts a unique design aesthetic, ensuring a memorable and luxurious stay.
The Comfort of Classic Charm: For a more traditional Bed and Breakfast experience, opt for one of the beautifully appointed guest rooms. The Buckner Suite, believed to be the original library of the house, offers a cozy ambiance with a queen-sized bed and fireplace. The Cumberland Suite, with its light and airy feel, provides a calming space to unwind. Whichever room you choose, you'll be enveloped in comfort and historic charm.
Beyond the Room: Unveiling the Amenities and Services
The Laurel Oak Inn goes beyond just beautiful rooms; it offers a multitude of amenities and services that elevate your stay:
A Gourmet Start to Your Day:
Fuel your adventures with a delicious breakfast buffet served each morning. Indulge in fresh fruits, homemade soufflés, yogurt parfaits, bacon and breads. The Inn prides itself on catering to dietary preferences, ensuring a delicious start to your day for everyone.
Relaxation at Your Fingertips:
After a day of exploring Gainesville, unwind in the Inn's inviting common areas. Curl up with a good book by the fireplace, enjoy a refreshing beverage on the veranda, or soak in the Florida sunshine on one of the outdoor patios.
Modern Touches in a Historic Setting:
Despite its historic charm, The Laurel Oak Inn seamlessly integrates modern amenities for a comfortable stay. All rooms feature flat-screen TVs with streaming channels, complimentary Wi-Fi access, and free coffee, tea, beverages, and snacks all day. Some suites offer additional luxuries, such as whirlpool tubs and private balconies, adding to your comfort and relaxation.
More Than Just a Place to Stay: A Gateway to Gainesville's Charm
The Laurel Oak Inn's location is ideal for exploring all that Gainesville has to offer:
A Stone's Throw from the Swamp:
The Inn is conveniently located just a short distance from Ben Hill Griffin Stadium, affectionately nicknamed "The Swamp," home to the Florida Gators football team. Enjoy a pre-game brunch at the Inn and soak in the electrifying game-day atmosphere.
Cultural Delights Around Every Corner:
Gainesville boasts a vibrant arts and culture scene. The Inn is nestled close to the Samuel P. Harn Museum of Art, the Hippodrome State Theatre, and a variety of art galleries and performance venues.
Looking for things to do while visiting Gainesville, FL: Things to D0
We were thrilled to welcome University of Florida's Tennis Great, Qavia Lopez to the Camellia Rose Inn this week! Qavia is one of our StayGainesville R.E.P. Program members and earns discounts for her herself, family and friends at our properties. We want to honor our Gainesville greats by partnering with them so that their family members can stay in the best properties in Gainesville. No more cookie-cutter hotels for our UF athletes. We offer 2 beautiful Inns in downtown Gainesville, as well as homes and condos near UF Campus. StayGainesville and Camellia Rose Inn owners, Susannah Peddie, had the pleasure of personally welcoming Qavia to the Inn on Monday night. We were thrilled to welcome her! Qavia's comments after her stay: "The Inn was great! It was very homey, and the breakfast was amazing. Thank you so much for the hospitality!" Thank YOU, Qavia, so much for staying with us! Learn all about UF's talented Qavia (Source: https://floridagators.com/sports/womens-tennis/roster/qavia-lopez/16283 ): Top-ranked recruit in the nation for 2023 women's tennis class Babola No.1 recruit in the nation Earned five-star and blue-chip honors Holds a No. 19 career best international tennis federation ranking Reached the semi-finals of the 2022 J1 Nottingham, JB1 Indian Wells, and JA Criciuma tournaments Participated in the 2022 Wimbledon Junior Championships and 2022 Junior Australian Open In doubles competition she has claimed four titles, winning the 2022 JB1 Indian Wells title, 2021 JB1 Nicholasville and JB1 San Diego titles and 2020 J3 Lousada title Follow Qavia on InstaGram: https://www.instagram.com/qavia.lopez/?hl=en Learn more about our REP Program Gator athletes are welcome to apply using the form on the StayGainesville REP Program information page . StayGainesville Launches StayGainesville REP Program: Rewarding Support for University of Florida Athletes GAINESVILLE, FL (April 22, 2024): Today, StayGainesville, a leading provider of temporary housing solutions in Gainesville, Florida, announces the launch of the StayGainesville REP (Refer, Earn, Post) Program. This innovative program aims to support University of Florida (UF) student-athletes and their families visiting Gainesville for athletic events. Student Athlete Program (staygainesville.com). Understanding the Needs of Student-Athletes: StayGainesville recognizes the unique challenges faced by UF student-athletes and their families. During busy athletic seasons, families may need comfortable and convenient housing for short-term stays. StayGainesville offers a wide range of accommodation types from large family homes to quaint bedrooms in our StayGainesville Inn properties, The Laurel Oak Inn and the Camellia Rose Inn. StayGainesville offers a wide range of fully-furnished rental properties, strategically located near UF's athletic facilities. Their rentals provide a comfortable and convenient home away from home, equipped with amenities to ensure a relaxing stay. The StayGainesville REP Program: The StayGainesville REP Program provides a win-win situation for UF student-athletes and their families. Here's how it works: UF student-athletes: Athletes can easily refer their families and fans to StayGainesville for temporary housing needs while earning monetary rewards based on number of nights stayed and promotion of StayGainesville on their social media accounts. Families: Families receive a significant discount on their stay at any StayGainesville rental property. This discount ensures comfortable and convenient housing at an affordable price. Become a StayGainesville Ambassador: For Athletes looking to earn higher rewards and show their support for local Gainesville businesses, StayGainesville has a Student Ambassador program that entails participating in local events supporting the thriving Gainesville community. Ambassadors will also have access to the catalog of StayGainesville Experience partnerships offering discounts on local goods and services usually reserved for Guests at a StayGainesville property. A Commitment to Supporting UF's Finest: "We are thrilled to launch the StayGainesville REP Program," says CEO, Susannah Peddie. "UF student-athletes dedicate themselves to excellence, and we want to ensure their families have a comfortable and supportive environment during visits. This program allows us to give back to the UF community and athletes while providing exceptional housing solutions." Contact: Susannah Peddie, CEO StayGainesville info@staygainesville.com www.staygainesville.com
Cultivating Creativity: A Journey Through the Gainesville Fine Arts Association Website: https://www.gainesvillefinearts.org/ Address: 1314 S Main Street in Gainesville, Florida Founded in 1923, the GFAA boasts a rich history as a champion of the arts, nurturing local talent and fostering a love for creativity within the Gainesville community. More Than Just an Art Gallery: A Hub for Artistic Exploration Step inside the stately, red-bricked GFAA building, and you'll be greeted by a welcoming atmosphere that pulsates with artistic energy. While the GFAA Gallery showcases captivating exhibitions featuring both established and emerging artists, the organization's mission extends far beyond displaying art. It's a vibrant hub for artistic exploration, offering a diverse range of programs and services that cater to all ages and skill levels. A Gallery that Speaks Volumes: Diverse Exhibitions Throughout the Year The GFAA Gallery is a dynamic platform for artistic expression. Throughout the year, it hosts a curated selection of exhibitions that showcase a variety of mediums and artistic styles. From thought-provoking contemporary pieces to captivating photography exhibits, the gallery offers something to ignite the imagination of every visitor. Nurturing Artistic Seedlings: The GFAA's Renowned Education Programs One of the cornerstones of the GFAA is its unwavering commitment to art education. The organization offers a comprehensive curriculum of classes and workshops for all ages and artistic backgrounds. Whether you're a child yearning to explore the world of painting or an adult seeking to refine your pottery skills, the GFAA has a program designed to help you unlock your creative potential. Experienced instructors guide students through various artistic disciplines, fostering a love for learning and a supportive environment for artistic exploration. A Celebration of Local Talent: The Annual Student Juried Exhibition A highlight of the GFAA's educational efforts is the annual Student Juried Exhibition. This prestigious event showcases the exceptional work of students enrolled in the GFAA's art classes. The exhibition provides a platform for aspiring artists to gain valuable recognition, compete for scholarships, and see their work displayed in a professional setting. It's a testament to the GFAA's dedication to nurturing the next generation of artistic talent in Gainesville. Beyond the Classroom Walls: Fostering a Creative Community The GFAA's commitment to fostering a vibrant arts community extends beyond its walls. The organization hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including artist talks, gallery receptions, and community art walks. These events provide opportunities for artists to connect with the public, share their creative journeys, and inspire others. A Legacy of Impact: The GFAA's Enduring Influence on Gainesville For over 70 years, the GFAA has played a pivotal role in shaping Gainesville's cultural landscape. It has nurtured countless local artists, providing them with a platform to showcase their work, hone their skills, and connect with a supportive community. The GFAA's educational programs have instilled a love for art in generations of Gainesville residents, enriching their lives and fostering a deeper appreciation for creativity. More Than Just Art Classes: A Space for Artistic Connection Visiting the GFAA isn't just about admiring art or taking a class; it's about connecting with the vibrant artistic spirit of Gainesville. The GFAA fosters a welcoming environment where people of all ages and backgrounds can come together to celebrate art, learn new skills, and share their passion for creativity. Whether you're browsing the gallery exhibits, participating in a workshop, or simply attending an artist talk, you'll be surrounded by a community that values artistic expression. A Destination for Everyone: Why You Should Visit the Gainesville Fine Arts Association The GFAA offers something for everyone, making it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in art in Gainesville. Here are just a few reasons why: Experience Diverse Exhibitions: Immerse yourself in a variety of artistic styles and mediums throughout the year, from thought-provoking contemporary pieces to captivating photography exhibits. Discover Your Inner Artist: Explore your creativity through the GFAA's comprehensive art education programs, with classes and workshops catering to all ages and skill levels. Support Local Talent: Witness the exceptional work of emerging artists at the annual Student Juried Exhibition and contribute to Gainesville's thriving arts scene. Connect with the Artistic Community: Attend artist talks, gallery receptions, and community art walks to engage with local artists and fellow art enthusiasts. Spark a Lifelong Love of Art: Whether you're an aspiring artist or simply appreciate beauty, the GFAA offers a welcoming space to explore your creativity and deepen your appreciation for the arts. Planning Your Visit to the Gainesville Fine Arts Association The Gainesville Fine Arts Association is located at 131 4 S Main Street in Gainesville, Florida. It's open Tuesday through Friday from 1:00 PM to 6:00 PM and on Saturday from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Before you visit, check out their website (https://www.gainesvillefinearts.org/) for upcoming exhibitions, class schedules, and special events. You can also follow them on social media for a sneak peek at the current exhibits and a glimpse into the vibrant artistic community they cultivate. A Look to the Future: The GFAA's Continued Commitment to Creativity The Gainesville Fine Arts Association's story is far from over. As the organization embarks on its next chapter, it remains dedicated to its core mission – fostering a love for the arts and nurturing artistic talent in Gainesville. With innovative programming, a dedication to inclusivity, and an unwavering passion for creativity, the GFAA is poised to continue its legacy as a cornerstone of Gainesville's cultural scene for years to come. So, next time you find yourself in Gainesville, take a detour from the well-trodden paths and explore the Gainesville Fine Arts Association. You might just discover your inner artist, witness the burgeoning talent of local creators, or simply be inspired by the sheer power of artistic expression. The GFAA is more than just an art gallery; it's a vibrant hub of creativity, a testament to the enduring power of art in enriching lives and shaping communities. 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.
