The Laurel Oak Inn: Spacious Home for 16- Book for UF Graduation

Planning a group getaway — whether it’s for a wedding, family reunion, UF graduation, retreat, or Gator game weekend — means finding accommodations that check every box: spacious, comfortable, stylish, and in the perfect location. If that sounds like your checklist, The Laurel Oak Inn in Gainesville, Florida delivers on every front.

Now available as a private whole-home rental, The Laurel Oak Inn is a spectacular 5,800-square-foot property in the heart of Gainesville’s historic district. Featuring 7 beautifully appointed bedrooms, 7.5 bathrooms, a gourmet kitchen, elegant living and dining spaces, and spacious outdoor areas, this property is designed for groups who want to stay together in style.

Steps away from downtown restaurants, entertainment, and the University of Florida, The Laurel Oak Inn combines the grandeur of a historic estate with the comforts and amenities of a modern luxury home.

Originally built in the early 1880s and meticulously restored, The Laurel Oak Inn offers guests the rare opportunity to enjoy the elegance of a historic mansion with all the conveniences of contemporary living. It’s one of Gainesville’s architectural treasures, showcasing soaring ceilings, polished heart pine floors, original fireplaces, and antique fixtures — all balanced with updated technology, designer furnishings, and thoughtful amenities.

Whether you’re hosting out-of-town family for a celebration, traveling with friends for a university event, or bringing your team together for a retreat, this stately home offers a warm and sophisticated setting for any occasion.

With seven luxurious guest rooms, each with its own private en suite bathroom, The Laurel Oak Inn is ideal for group stays where privacy is as important as togetherness. No one has to share bathrooms or split up across multiple rentals — everyone can enjoy their own space under one roof.

Every bedroom includes:

A plush king-size bed (just 1 queen bed upstairs)

Private bathroom with shower or tub

Quality linens and fluffy towels

Elegant décor with a blend of vintage and modern touches

Ample natural light and ceiling fans

The half bathroom near the common areas adds convenience for shared use, making this layout especially group-friendly.

The inn’s fully equipped gourmet kitchen is a centerpiece for guests who want to cook, cater, or gather around food. With plenty of space and high-end appliances, it’s ready for anything from casual breakfasts to formal dinners.

Kitchen features include:

Stainless steel appliances

Gas stove and double ovens

Full-size refrigerator and freezer

Microwave, dishwasher, and prep sink

Granite countertops and a large island

Cookware, dishes, serveware, and small appliances (coffee maker, toaster)

Whether you hire a private chef, host a brunch, or heat up takeout from one of Gainesville’s fantastic downtown eateries, the kitchen makes it easy to feel right at home.

The adjacent formal dining room seats a large group in style, perfect for celebratory meals, special events, or extended family dinners. Additional seating areas throughout the house and on the porches give your group flexibility to gather or spread out.

What truly sets The Laurel Oak Inn apart is its gracious interior layout. The home’s common areas are designed for connection — whether that means morning coffee in the sunroom, a late-night chat in the parlor, or a shared movie night in the living room.

Inside, you'll enjoy:

A large living room with plush seating, ideal for socializing or relaxing

A quiet library nook for reading or remote work

A sunny breakfast room and multiple seating areas throughout

High ceilings, chandeliers, and curated artwork that create a refined atmosphere

This is not your average vacation rental — it’s a place where memories are made.

In Florida, the outdoors is as important as the indoors — and The Laurel Oak Inn makes the most of its setting with lush gardens, expansive porches, and a generous backyard that’s perfect for entertaining or unwinding.

Highlights include:

A large wraparound front porch with ceiling fans and rocking chairs

Multiple seating areas and al fresco dining options

A spacious backyard ideal for catered events, yoga sessions, or garden parties

Private, off-street parking for guests

The peaceful atmosphere and beautiful landscaping create a private oasis right in the middle of Gainesville.

One of the most convenient aspects of renting The Laurel Oak Inn is its unbeatable location. Just a few blocks from downtown Gainesville, guests can walk to a variety of attractions, restaurants, and cultural hotspots.

Walkable highlights include:

The Hippodrome Theatre for live performances and indie films

Bo Diddley Plaza, host to concerts and festivals

The Union Street Farmers Market (weekly)

Local dining favorites like Embers, The Top, Cry Baby’s, and The Bull

Coffee shops, bakeries, breweries, and boutique stores

You’ll also be just minutes from the University of Florida, Ben Hill Griffin Stadium, and UF Health/Shands Hospital — making it the perfect home base for campus events, medical stays, and everything in between.

The Laurel Oak Inn is the ultimate group rental for a variety of occasions:

Family reunions and multigenerational vacations

Wedding party accommodations, bridal prep, or post-wedding lodging

Graduation celebrations and alumni get-togethers

Corporate retreats, team-building events, and board meetings

Holiday gatherings or long weekend escapes

Medical stays that require space, privacy, and comfort

Instead of booking multiple hotel rooms or juggling rental logistics across properties, your group can stay together in one beautiful, private home designed for connection and ease.

At StayGainesville, we’re proud to represent The Laurel Oak Inn as one of our most distinguished whole-home rentals. We help guests plan smooth, stress-free stays by offering:

Group booking assistance and flexible rates

Vendor and concierge recommendations

Pre-arrival instructions and guest support

Custom suggestions for dining, entertainment, and experiences

Our local team is here to ensure your Gainesville getaway is nothing short of exceptional.

As one of Gainesville’s most iconic and elegant homes, The Laurel Oak Inn is in high demand — especially during UF football games, graduation weekends, and holidays.

Don’t miss your opportunity to book this incredible property for your next group event.

Visit https://staygainesville.holidayfuture.com/listings/360427 or call 352-519-3994 to inquire about dates, rates, and availability.

The Laurel Oak Inn — a place where your group can relax, celebrate, and reconnect in timeless Southern elegance.