The 30 Best Florida state parks in Gainesville, Florida

Robin's K9 Lifestyle is a premier dog park located in Gainesville, Florida. Our park is dedicated to providing a safe and fun environment for dogs to socialize, exercise, and play. With spacious play areas, agility equipment, and plenty of shade, our park is the perfect place for dogs of all sizes and breeds to enjoy a day out. Our experienced staff is dedicated to ensuring the well-being and happiness of all our furry visitors. Come visit Robin's K9 Lifestyle at 12010 Northeast 7th Avenue and see why we are the top choice for dog owners in Gainesville.

Skate Station Funworks is a family-friendly entertainment center located at 1311 Northwest 76 Boulevard in Gainesville, Florida. This fun-filled destination offers a variety of activities for all ages, including roller skating, arcade games, laser tag, and a play area for young children. The facility also features a snack bar serving up delicious treats and a party room for hosting birthday celebrations and special events. With its convenient location and exciting attractions, Skate Station Funworks is the perfect place to have a memorable and enjoyable time with friends and family.

Kanapaha Botanical Gardens is a stunning park and tourist attraction located at 4700 Southwest 58th Drive in Gainesville, Florida. Spanning over 62 acres, this botanical wonderland features a vast collection of plants from around the world, including exotic flowers, towering trees, and lush gardens. Visitors can explore winding pathways, serene water features, and themed gardens like the butterfly garden and bamboo garden. The gardens also offer a gift shop where visitors can purchase unique souvenirs and plants to take home. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a photography buff, or simply looking for a peaceful escape, Kanapaha Botanical Gardens is a must-visit destination in Gainesville.

Kiwanis Challenge Playground is a vibrant and inclusive recreational facility located at 2002 Northwest 36th Avenue in Gainesville, Florida, United States. This playground is designed to provide children of all abilities with a safe and stimulating environment to play and socialize. With its innovative equipment and accessible features, Kiwanis Challenge Playground offers a unique and engaging experience for children and families in the community. Whether swinging on the swings, climbing on the jungle gym, or exploring the sensory garden, visitors of all ages can enjoy a fun and memorable day at this exceptional playground.

Albert "Ray" Massey (Westside) Playground is a vibrant community space located at 1001 Northwest 34th Street in Gainesville, Florida, United States. This playground offers a variety of recreational activities for children and families to enjoy, including swings, slides, and climbing structures. The well-maintained grounds provide a safe and inviting environment for children to play and explore. With its convenient location and welcoming atmosphere, Albert "Ray" Massey (Westside) Playground is a popular destination for families looking to spend quality time together outdoors.

Bragging Rights Amusements is a premier entertainment destination located in Gainesville, Florida. With a wide selection of classic and modern arcade games, pinball machines, and carnival games, visitors can enjoy unlimited play in a fun and lively atmosphere. In addition to the exciting games, the institution also features a bar serving a variety of beverages including beer, wine, seltzers, slushies, and canned cocktails, as well as food and snacks to keep guests satisfied. Whether you're looking to challenge your friends to a game or simply relax with family, Bragging Rights Amusements is the perfect spot for a day of entertainment. Visit us at 113 Northwest 8th Avenue, Gainesville, Florida 32601, United States.

Harmonic Woods is a serene park located on Fraternity Dr. in Gainesville, Florida, United States. This enchanting institution offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life, with its lush greenery and harmonious atmosphere. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll along the winding paths, relax on the benches surrounded by tall trees, or simply enjoy the sounds of nature. Whether you're looking for a quiet spot to read a book or a place to meditate and unwind, Harmonic Woods is the perfect destination for those seeking tranquility and connection with the natural world.

Morningside Nature Center, located at 3540 East University Avenue in Gainesville, Florida, is a premier nature park and tourist attraction. It is one of the last remaining examples of fire-dependent longleaf pine woodlands in the area, with over six miles of trails winding through various ecosystems such as sandhill, flatwoods, and cypress domes. Visitors can enjoy a spectacular wildflower display and observe a diverse array of wildlife. The Living History Farm at Morningside Nature Center offers a glimpse into the daily life of a Florida family living in the mid to late 1800s. On Living History days, visitors can experience chores and activities from 1870 as staff interpret bygone days.

The Harn Museum of Art is a renowned cultural institution located at 3259 Hull Road in Gainesville, Florida, United States. As a museum dedicated to showcasing a diverse range of art from around the world, the Harn offers visitors a unique and enriching experience. With a vast collection of paintings, sculptures, ceramics, and more, the museum is a must-visit tourist attraction for art enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. Explore the galleries and immerse yourself in the beauty and creativity of artistic expression at the Harn Museum of Art.

Sweetwater Preserve is a picturesque park and popular tourist attraction located at 309 Southeast 16th Avenue in Gainesville, Florida, United States. This stunning natural oasis offers visitors the chance to explore lush greenery, serene waterways, and diverse wildlife. With miles of scenic hiking trails, picnic areas, and opportunities for birdwatching, Sweetwater Preserve is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an active adventure, this hidden gem in Gainesville is sure to captivate visitors of all ages.

Flip Factory Zone is Gainesville's premier family entertainment center located at 7400 West Newberry Road in Gainesville, Florida. With a variety of activities and attractions, including trampolines, foam pits, and obstacle courses, Flip Factory Zone offers fun for all ages. Our hours of operation are Monday through Thursday from 2pm to 8pm, Friday from 2pm to 10pm, Saturday from 10am to 10pm, and Sunday from 11am to 8pm (holiday hours may vary). Come bounce, flip, and play at Flip Factory Zone for a day of excitement and adventure!

Regal Butler Town Center is a state-of-the-art movie theater located in Gainesville, Florida. Situated on Southwest Deborah Butler Court, this entertainment hub offers a luxurious and comfortable movie-watching experience for visitors of all ages. With a wide range of blockbuster films playing on multiple screens, Regal Butler Town Center is the perfect destination for a fun night out with family and friends. Whether you're looking for the latest Hollywood releases or classic favorites, this theater has something for everyone. Enjoy top-notch amenities, including spacious seating, high-quality audio and visual technology, and a variety of snack options at the concession stand. Come and immerse yourself in the magic of the big screen at Regal Butler Town Center.

Optical Outlets, located at 3324 West University Avenue in Gainesville, Florida, is a health store specializing in eyewear. Situated next to the UPS store on the NE corner of 34th & University, the institution offers a wide selection of the latest fashion frames with options such as Single Vision, FT28 Bifocals, or Standard Progressives plastic lenses. To take advantage of their special offer, customers must purchase 2 pairs of glasses for a $49 exam, or pay $69 for an exam with 1 pair or no purchase. Please note that this offer is not valid with insurance and must be paid in full at the time of purchase. With plenty of parking available behind the store, Optical Outlets is a convenient choice for all your eyewear needs.

Westside Recreation Center is a premier facility located in Gainesville, Florida. Situated at 1001 Northwest 34th Street, this center offers a wide range of recreational activities for individuals of all ages. From state-of-the-art fitness equipment to group exercise classes, indoor and outdoor sports courts, swimming pools, and more, Westside Recreation Center is the perfect place to stay active and have fun. Whether you're looking to work out, meet new friends, or simply relax, this facility has something for everyone. Join us at Westside Recreation Center and experience a vibrant and welcoming community dedicated to health and wellness.

Prairie Creek Preserve is a stunning park and tourist attraction located in Gainesville, Florida, United States. This beautiful preserve offers visitors the chance to explore diverse ecosystems, including prairies, wetlands, and forests. With miles of hiking trails, visitors can immerse themselves in nature and observe a variety of wildlife, from birds to deer. The preserve also features picnic areas, perfect for enjoying a meal surrounded by the peaceful surroundings. Prairie Creek Preserve is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts looking to experience the beauty of Florida's natural landscapes.

Mentone Community Pool is a vibrant and welcoming institution located at 8230 Southwest 69th Place in Gainesville, Florida. This state-of-the-art facility offers a wide range of amenities including a large swimming pool, diving boards, water slides, and a children's play area. The pool is meticulously maintained and staffed by certified lifeguards to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors. Whether you're looking to swim laps, relax in the sun, or have some family fun, Mentone Community Pool is the perfect destination for aquatic recreation in the Gainesville area.

H. Spurgeon Cherry Westside Pool, located in Gainesville, Florida, is a full-featured aquatics facility offering a range of amenities for swimmers of all ages. The pool includes short course lap lanes, a splash pad, diving boards and towers, a disabled access ramp, aqua slide, and a picnic area. The bathhouse and showers are available for use, and the pool is staffed by trained professionals. There is also deck space for sunbathing, swim lessons, and relaxation. The pool operates on a seasonal schedule, with specific hours for lap swim, open swim, and special events. For information on fees and schedules, visit the "Aquatics" section of the website. Special events or pool rentals can be arranged by contacting the Aquatics Supervisor.

The T B McPherson Recreation Complex is a vibrant park located at 1717 Southeast 15th Street in Gainesville, Florida. This recreational facility offers a wide range of amenities and activities for visitors of all ages. From playgrounds and sports fields to walking trails and picnic areas, there is something for everyone to enjoy at this family-friendly park. The T B McPherson Recreation Complex is the perfect place to spend a day outdoors, whether you're looking to relax and unwind or get active and play. Come visit this beautiful park and experience all that it has to offer!

The T.B. McPherson Center, located at 1717 Southeast 15th Street in Gainesville, Florida, offers a variety of amenities for visitors to enjoy. These amenities include parking, restrooms, basketball courts with lighting, diamond fields for baseball and softball, tennis courts with lighting, unpaved trails, picnic tables, grills, a pavilion, playground, and a pool. Dogs are allowed on leashes in the park. The center also features fitness stations along the trail for activities such as sit-ups, push-ups, and dip-training. Gainesville's Aces in Motion (AIM) program operates from the park, providing after-school activities for disadvantaged youth and people with disabilities. The tennis courts are frequently used by the program.

Cold Stone Creamery is a popular bakery, food, restaurant, and store located at 3822 Newberry Road in Gainesville, Florida, United States. Known for their delicious and customizable ice cream creations, Cold Stone Creamery offers a wide variety of flavors and mix-ins to satisfy any sweet tooth. Customers can watch as their ice cream is freshly prepared on a frozen granite stone, ensuring a creamy and decadent treat every time. With a welcoming atmosphere and friendly staff, Cold Stone Creamery is the perfect place to indulge in a tasty dessert.

Camping World is a one-stop destination for all your outdoor and recreational vehicle needs. Located at 14200 U.S. 441 in Summerfield, Florida, this institution offers a wide range of services including car sales, repairs, and a store stocked with all the camping and RV essentials you could ever need. Whether you're in the market for a new vehicle, looking to get your current one serviced, or simply need to stock up on supplies for your next outdoor adventure, Camping World has you covered. With a team of experienced professionals and a commitment to customer satisfaction, you can trust that you're in good hands at Camping World.

Sola Salon Studios in Gainesville, Florida is a beauty salon and hair care institution located at 490 Northwest 60 Street. Conveniently situated just two blocks east of Oaks Mall and south of Yamato's, the center offers ample parking for both salon owners and guests. With 23 individual salon studios available, professionals in the cosmetology industry can find the perfect space to call their own. Studio sizes range from single to large and double, all move-in ready with shampoo bowls, cabinets, and shelving fixtures. Sola Salon Studios is here to help you achieve your dream of owning your own salon, providing support and guidance every step of the way. Schedule a tour today to experience Sola firsthand and see how going independent can be a game-changer for your career.

Avant Garde Salon is a trendy beauty salon located at 1310 Southwest 13th Street in Gainesville, Florida. Specializing in hair care services, this salon offers a unique and modern experience for clients looking to enhance their beauty routine. The inviting atmosphere of Avant Garde Salon will make you feel happy and relaxed as soon as you walk through the door. Conveniently located near the UF Health South Parking Garage, this salon is easily accessible for those in the Gainesville area. Whether you're in need of a haircut, color treatment, or styling session, the skilled professionals at Avant Garde Salon are dedicated to helping you look and feel your best. Visit us today for a pampering experience that will leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.

Garrison Way Community Pool is a vibrant and family-friendly institution located in Gainesville, Florida, United States. Our pool offers a safe and inviting space for residents of all ages to relax, swim, and socialize. With crystal-clear water and well-maintained facilities, our community pool is the perfect place to cool off on hot summer days. Whether you're looking to swim laps, soak up the sun on the pool deck, or enjoy a fun day out with friends and family, Garrison Way Community Pool has something for everyone. Join us for a refreshing and enjoyable experience at our beloved neighborhood pool.

Pinch A Penny Pool Patio Spa is a premier store located at 5010 Northwest 34th Boulevard in Gainesville, Florida. This institution offers a wide range of products and services for all your pool, patio, and spa needs. From pool chemicals and equipment to outdoor furniture and accessories, Pinch A Penny has everything you need to create the perfect backyard oasis. Their knowledgeable staff is dedicated to providing top-notch customer service and expert advice to help you maintain and enjoy your outdoor space to the fullest. Whether you're looking to upgrade your pool equipment, redesign your patio, or relax in a luxurious spa, Pinch A Penny Pool Patio Spa has you covered. Visit them today and see why they are the go-to destination for all things pool, patio, and spa in Gainesville.

Lebowski's Pup Pub is a cozy bar located at 514 North Main Street in Gainesville, Florida. This laid-back establishment offers a casual atmosphere where patrons can enjoy a wide selection of drinks and delicious bar snacks. With its friendly staff and welcoming vibe, Lebowski's Pup Pub is the perfect spot to unwind with friends after a long day or catch the game on one of their big screen TVs. Whether you're a local or just passing through, this neighborhood bar is sure to become a favorite hangout spot.

Boulware Springs Water Works is a historic institution located at 3300 Southeast 15th Street in Gainesville, Florida, United States. It serves as a trailhead for the popular 17-mile Gainesville-Hawthorne State Trail, attracting hikers, bicyclists, and horseback riders. The facility offers picnic facilities, parking, and a designated area for unloading horses. City staff and volunteers are actively working to restore the surrounding sandhill and upland pine forest. Recently, a new metal roof was installed on the Boulware Springs Park pavilion by American Roofing Company, a local business. The project cost $5,495 and was completed in January 2020. The institution is open daily from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. from March 15 to September 30, and from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. from October 1 to March 14. The institution is also open on weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with closures on observed holidays. Visit Boulware Springs Water Works to enjoy the natural beauty and recreational opportunities it offers.

Sweetwater Overlook is a picturesque park located in Gainesville, Florida, United States. This tranquil oasis offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and is the perfect spot for nature lovers to relax and unwind. With lush greenery, scenic walking paths, and a serene atmosphere, Sweetwater Overlook provides a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Whether you want to enjoy a leisurely stroll, have a picnic with loved ones, or simply take in the beauty of the natural surroundings, this park is the ideal destination for a day of outdoor exploration. Come visit Sweetwater Overlook and experience the beauty of nature in the heart of Gainesville.

Sink Hole is a stunning natural wonder located at 4732 Millhopper Road in Gainesville, Florida. This unique park features a large depression in the ground formed by the collapse of underground limestone. Visitors can explore the sinkhole's depths and marvel at the lush vegetation and wildlife that call this geological marvel home. With walking trails, picnic areas, and educational exhibits, Sink Hole is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts looking to experience the beauty of Florida's natural landscapes.

The Water Control Structure at Prairie Creek and Paynes Prairie is a vital institution located in Gainesville, Florida, United States. This park serves as a crucial hub for managing water levels and flow within the surrounding area, ensuring the preservation of the delicate ecosystem. Visitors can learn about the importance of water control through educational programs and guided tours, as well as enjoy the natural beauty of the park through hiking trails and wildlife observation. The institution plays a key role in maintaining the balance of the environment and promoting sustainability in the region.